Banff/Calgary/Canmore: Crowfoot Glacier and 5 Lakes Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Alberta and want to make the most of your time, this Crowfoot Glacier and 5 Lakes Tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the most iconic sights in Banff and Jasper National Parks without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. From what we’ve gathered, it’s a well-loved experience, praised for its scenic stops and knowledgeable guides, making it a solid choice whether you’re short on time or just want a curated taste of the Rockies.

What truly stands out is the chance to visit five breathtaking lakes—including the famous Lake Louise and Peyto Lake—and witness the majesty of Crowfoot Glacier up close. Plus, the tour is quite affordable at $71 per person, which seems reasonable for a full day of exploring so many highlights in such a scenic setting. On the flip side, since it’s a day trip, you’ll spend quite a bit of time on the road, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with early mornings and long scenic drives.

This tour tends to appeal to travelers who want a rundown of the region’s top sights without the need to rent a car or navigate on their own. It’s especially good if you appreciate having a guide share insights along the way, or if you’re traveling with a group that values convenience and expert commentary. If you’re after an in-depth, scenic adventure that covers a lot in one day, this might be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Affordable and value-packed at $71 per person for a full-day adventure.
• Includes transportation, local guide, and park pass, simplifying your trip.
• Visits five lakes and a glacier, giving a rich taste of the Rockies’ beauty.
• Highly praised for guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with many reviewers mentioning excellent customer service.
• Good for travelers with limited time but eager to see multiple iconic sites.
• Weather considerations can impact accessibility, especially in winter.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

This tour is designed to compress the highlights of Banff and Jasper into a single day, making it ideal for those passing through or with limited time. The starting point is flexible, with pickups in Calgary, Banff, or Canmore, which is a nice convenience. Once on board, the journey begins with a scenic drive through the Rockies—an opportunity to soak in the mountain views even before arriving at your first stop.

The Scenic Drive and First Stops

The tour typically starts early, with pickups around 8:00 AM in Calgary and slightly later from Banff and Canmore. Once underway, the guide shares tidbits about the area, setting the scene for the day ahead. The first major highlight is Lake Louise, renowned for its stunning beauty and often crowded, but still worth every second of the photo ops it offers. Here, you might enjoy a quick walk or simply take in the views.

Crowfoot Glacier: A Majestic Sight

Next, you’ll visit the Crowfoot Glacier, where a half-hour guided tour offers a close-up view of this impressive glacier. The sight of it shimmering under the sunlight is a real treat, especially for those who love glaciers and mountain scenery. According to reviews, guides are often praised for their knowledge and the care they take in sharing stories about these natural features.

The Lakes: Peyto, Bow, Herbert, and Waterfowl

The real stars are the lakes. You’ll stop at Peyto Lake, famous for its vibrant turquoise waters and wolf-shaped outline when viewed from above. The photos here tend to wow viewers, and many travelers mention how clear and striking the lake is. Bow Lake offers a more tranquil setting, with a pristine surface reflecting the surrounding peaks.

Further stops include Herbert Lake and Waterfowl Lake, both providing peaceful, postcard-worthy scenery. Each stop allows for stretching your legs, taking photos, or simply enjoying the serenity of these alpine jewels.

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Lunch and Free Time

Although lunch isn’t included, the tour makes a convenient stop at Lake Louise Village or the Lake Louise Ski Resort, where you can purchase food and drinks. Many reviews mention the value of having this flexibility—sometimes, grabbing a quick sandwich or coffee makes a big difference after a morning of sightseeing.

End of the Day and Return

After a full day of exploring, you’ll head back to your pickup point—whether in Calgary, Banff, or Canmore—around late afternoon or early evening. The drive back offers more mountain views and a chance to reflect on what you’ve seen.

What Travelers Are Saying

We looked through tons of reviews, and it’s clear that most people leave with smiles and impressive photos. Several reviewers mention how the guides, like Guri, Vik, or Rob, enhance the experience with their friendliness and knowledge. A common theme is the guide’s generosity—offering to take photos and giving extra tips about the area.

One reviewer said, “Our guide, Guri, was wonderful. He was informative, friendly, and a true asset to his company. I thoroughly enjoyed the entire day.” Others praised the “amazing views,” “great service,” and “ample time at each stop.”

Many appreciate how the tour provides value for money, especially considering the number of sites visited and the inclusion of park passes and transportation. The fact that snacks and water are offered during stops is also a nice touch, helping keep everyone refreshed during the long day.

However, a few reviews touch on the fact that in winter, waterfowl lakes might not be accessible due to snow, which is worth keeping in mind if visiting in colder months. The tour is primarily a summer or shoulder-season experience, but the scenery in winter can still be stunning—even if some lakes aren’t accessible.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Transportation: Modern, air-conditioned vans or SUVs make the long drive comfortable, even on warmer days.
• Group Size: While the reviews mention private tours, the standard experience likely involves a group setting, which can be fun but also means some waiting for photos and stops.
• Duration: The full-day format means waking early and potentially returning late, but most find the time worthwhile.
• Price: At $71 per person, this tour offers a good deal, especially considering the included park pass and guide services. It’s a cost-effective way to cover a lot of ground.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, water, weather-appropriate clothing, and cash for meals are recommended.
• Weather: Check the forecast; winter can limit access to some lakes, but the views and glaciers still impress and make for memorable trips.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience that hits many highlights in a single day. It suits travelers who prefer not to drive themselves, value expert guidance, and appreciate a well-organized itinerary. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want to maximize your sightseeing without the stress of planning, this could be a great choice.

It’s also excellent for first-time visitors who want an overview of Alberta’s spectacular scenery, especially those who are keen on photography, given the stunning lakes and glaciers you’ll encounter. If you’re a nature lover eager to see a variety of lakes and glaciers without sacrificing comfort, this tour ticks many boxes.

FAQ

Is food included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but the tour makes stops in Lake Louise Village or the Ski Resort where you can purchase meals and snacks.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, typically starting around 8:00 AM and returning in the late afternoon or early evening.

Are water and snacks provided?
Yes, the tour includes water and frequently offers additional snacks, which helps keep everyone energized.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather can influence accessibility, especially in winter, but the guides tend to adjust as needed. Many reviewers had great experiences even when it rained, citing the scenic views as still worth it.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the stops and scenery are suitable for all ages, and the comfortable transportation makes for an easy trip.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, cash, and any personal items you might need for photos or snacks.

Is the guide multilingual?
The activity is conducted in English, with knowledgeable guides sharing insights throughout the trip.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, well-organized day trip that showcases some of the most beautiful lakes and glaciers in the Rockies, this Crowfoot Glacier and 5 Lakes Tour could be just the thing. It’s especially suited to travelers who want a hassle-free experience, guided commentary, and plenty of picture-perfect moments. While it’s a long day and winter access to some lakes may be limited, many reviewers agree it’s a worthwhile way to see Alberta’s stunning landscapes without the stress of planning.

For those who value knowledgeable guides, convenient logistics, and a variety of iconic sights in one trip, this tour offers a memorable slice of Canada’s mountain magic—without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here: