Banff Big 3 Moraine Lake, Lake Louise and Emerald Lake Tour

Exploring the Banff Big 3 Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, and Emerald Lake Tour

If you’re dreaming of stunning mountain scenery, this Banff Big 3 Tour promises to bring some of Canada’s most famous and beautiful lakes right to your doorstep. From the comfort of a well-organized, all-in-one day trip, you’ll visit Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Emerald Lake, and even get a bonus stop at Takakkaw Falls—all with expert guidance and hassle-free transportation. We haven’t done this tour ourselves but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it looks like a solid choice for anyone wanting to see the highlights without the stress of driving or planning multiple stops.

What really catches our eye is the convenience of hotel pickup, especially since you’ll be traveling between sites that are spread out across two national parks. Plus, the small group size (max 13 travelers) and knowledgeable guides contribute significantly to making the experience both comfortable and engaging. On the flip side, keep in mind that lunch isn’t included, so you’ll want to plan for a meal or snacks, especially if you’re hungry after a morning of sightseeing.

This tour seems best suited for those who appreciate nature’s grandeur but prefer a relaxed pace, as well as travelers who want a professional guide to share local insights. If you’re visiting Calgary and want to tick off these iconic lakes with minimal fuss, this could be a perfect fit. It’s also quite popular, often booked about 48 days in advance, which suggests it hits the sweet spot for many travelers.

Key Points

• Comfortable, all-in-one experience with hotel pickup and drop-off.
• Expert guides who share insights on history and wildlife.
• Flexible timing, with ample time to explore each lake and waterfall.
• Competitive price considering park admissions, snacks, and transportation.
• Small group size enhances intimacy and personalized service.
• Not including lunch means you should plan ahead for a meal.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start: Early Morning Pickup and Travel

The tour kicks off bright and early at 7:00 am, giving you a full day to soak in the scenery. The pickup service is a real plus—no stress about parking or navigating yourself. The ride itself is in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring you stay cool and relaxed as you move between locations, often with a guide sharing fascinating tidbits about the area’s geography and history.

Stop 1: Lake Louise

First on the agenda is Lake Louise, known to the Stoney Nakota First Nations as Ho-run-num-nay, meaning the Lake of the Little Fishes. This spot is a must-see—the sheer size, the mountain backdrop, and the iconic Fairmont Chateau make it feel like stepping into a postcard. The calm, glacial-fed waters create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a quick walk along the shoreline or some photos.

Travelers frequently mention how breathtaking this lake is, and it is often the first stop for good reason. It offers about an hour to explore, take photos, or just soak in the view. If you’re a fan of scenery, you’ll understand why this location is so beloved.

Stop 2: Moraine Lake

Next, we head to Moraine Lake, regarded as the most photographed lake in Canada. Located in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, its sapphire-blue waters create a striking contrast against the rugged mountain backdrop. This lake’s photo potential is undeniable, and many find it even more stunning in person.

You’ll get about an hour here—long enough to walk to the lakeshore, snap some pictures, and marvel at the view. The reviews highlight how truly jaw-dropping Moraine Lake is; one reviewer called it “blown away,” emphasizing just how much people love it.

Stop 3: Emerald Lake

Crossing into British Columbia, the tour makes a stop at Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park. This freshwater lake earned its name from the early mountaineers who marveled at its vivid, greenish hue. Its glacier origins give it a special feel, and the surrounding forest and mountains make for an excellent photo op.

With about 45 minutes on site, you’ll have time to walk around and appreciate the extraordinary color of the water. Multiple reviews note how beautiful Emerald Lake is, and it’s often described as a peaceful, less crowded alternative to the other lakes.

Bonus Stop: Takakkaw Falls

The tour includes a final stop at Takakkaw Falls, which at 373 meters tall, is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada. The name “Takakkaw” translates to “magnificent” in Cree, and it certainly lives up to the name. The sheer power and height of the falls leave many visitors in awe.

You’ll spend around 45 minutes here—ample time for a quick walk to get close to the falls and take it all in. Reviewers often mention how impressive and accessible the falls are, making it a great way to end the scenic day.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers a lot for the price of $178.16 per person. Included in the package are park admission fees, a light snack and refreshing soda, and the use of an air-conditioned vehicle. The private transportation adds to the comfort, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

However, it’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food at the stops. Also, car seats for children are not provided, so if you’re traveling with little ones, plan accordingly.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Based on reviews, the standout feature is the knowledgeable guides who not only drive safely but share stories and insights that enrich the experience. Multiple reviewers pointed out how guides like Cassie and Randi made the trip special—being personable, friendly, and deeply familiar with the area.

The small group size makes the experience more intimate and allows for more personalized attention. Many people mentioned how they appreciated not having to worry about parking or navigating the busy parks themselves.

The scenic stops themselves get glowing praise. Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, and Emerald Lake are all described as breathtaking, with clear, vivid waters and stunning backdrops. Takakkaw Falls also leaves a lasting impression with its grandeur.

Considerations and Downsides

While this tour is highly rated and well-received, there are a few things to keep in mind. The duration of 7 to 10 hours means it’s a full day, which might be tiring for some travelers. Also, lunch isn’t included, so you’ll need to bring snacks or plan to buy food at the stops, which can add to the overall budget.

Another consideration is the timing of the tour—starting at 7:00 am, it’s quite early, but this is typical for avoiding crowds and making the most of daylight hours. If you’re not an early riser, this might take some getting used to.

Lastly, the tour is capped at 13 travelers, which is great for a more personal experience but could mean that if you book last minute, availability may be limited.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This experience is ideally suited for travelers who want a stress-free way to see the most iconic lakes and waterfalls around Banff and Yoho. It’s excellent for those who value guided insights and prefer comfortable transportation rather than self-driving.

It’s also a good pick for anyone visiting Calgary or nearby towns like Canmore or Banff and eager to maximize their sightseeing time without the hassle of planning every detail. If you’re traveling with friends, family, or even on your own and love scenic landscapes, this tour will likely tick a lot of boxes.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned transportation from Calgary, Canmore, Banff, or Lake Louise.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 7 to 10 hours, starting early at 7:00 am.

Are park fees included? Yes, park admission is covered in the price.

Can I bring children? While the tour doesn’t specify car seats, most travelers can participate; just plan for your children’s safety needs.

What should I bring? Since lunch isn’t included, bring snacks or a packed lunch, and don’t forget your camera! Water bottles are a good idea too.

Is there a refund policy? Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, making it flexible if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

This Banff Big 3 Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, and Emerald Lake Tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience for anyone eager to see Canada’s most photogenic lakes without the headache of self-driving or complicated logistics. The combination of beautiful scenery, insightful guides, and convenient logistics makes it a memorable way to spend a day in the Rockies.

While the full-day commitment might be a stretch for some, the value of having expert insights, park access, and a comfortable ride outweighs the minor inconveniences. It shines especially for those who want to maximize their sightseeing but prefer a relaxed, guided approach.

If you’re into stunning mountain lakes, waterfalls, and memorable experiences that don’t require constant planning, this tour could be just what you need. It’s well-loved by past travelers—trustworthy, scenic, and genuinely enjoyable.