Banff. Moraine, Lake Louise ,Emerald & Johnston Canyon tour

Thinking of exploring one of Canada’s most famous national parks? This full-day Banff tour packs in some of the most breathtaking sights, from the shimmering waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to the dramatic waterfalls of Johnston Canyon. Priced at about $70 per person and lasting around 10 hours, it’s a solid way to see a lot without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how smoothly everything runs — from the transportation to the guide’s local insights. Plus, the chance to get up close to iconic spots like Moraine Lake, with its unmistakable mountain backdrop, is hard to beat. On the flip side, it’s a long day, so if you’re not used to hours on the bus or want more time at each stop, that’s worth keeping in mind.

This kind of tour is ideal if you’re looking for a comprehensive, guided experience that hits all the high points with minimal planning. It’s especially suited for those who value good organization, decent price, and the chance to see major sights without the stress of self-driving.

Key Points

• All-in-one Day: Covers Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon, and Banff town.
• Expert Guide: Local guide provides insights and makes the day more engaging.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect to see some of Canada’s most photographed lakes and waterfalls.
• Convenience: Includes transportation, park passes, and water.
• Flexibility: Stops are planned with enough time for photos and brief walks.
• Limited Meals: No included meals, so plan to bring snacks or eat in Banff.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose This Tour?

If you’re after an organized way to see Banff’s highlights, this tour offers a lot for the price. It’s not just about ticking off sights; it’s about experiencing the feel of Canada’s most famous national park without the fuss of navigating yourself.

We loved the smooth roundtrip transportation — it takes the hassle out of traveling between dispersed sites. Plus, the local guide is often highlighted as a big plus, adding stories, tips, and taking care of photos (which saves you from trying to fiddle with your phone while rushing around).

The price of around $70 makes it fairly accessible, especially considering the included park pass and water. That said, meals are not included, so pack a lunch or plan to pick something up in Banff.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Departure and Pickups

The tour kicks off early, with pickups from three convenient spots: the Delta Hotel Calgary Downtown at 8:00 AM, Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa at 9:50 AM, and the Travel Alberta Canmore Visitor Information Centre at 9:30 AM. This flexibility means you won’t have to worry about complicated meeting points if you’re staying in Calgary, Banff, or Canmore.

Scenic Drive to Lake Louise

Once onboard, the journey begins with a scenic drive through the stunning landscape. Arriving at Lake Louise, you get a decent amount of time to snap photos of the glacier-fed lake, framed by snowy peaks and vibrant forests. It’s one of those sights that makes you want to pull out every camera or phone you have — and you’ll probably see others doing the same.

More Great Tours Nearby

Moraine Lake or Lake Minnewanka

Next up is Moraine Lake, which is arguably the star of this tour. Known for its intense turquoise waters and towering mountain peaks called the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is a photographer’s dream. This stop typically offers enough time to walk around, take photos, or simply soak it all in.

However, from October 15 to May 31, instead of Moraine Lake, you’ll visit Lake Minnewanka. That’s still a gorgeous spot, but some might find it slightly less iconic than Moraine. The tour’s flexibility here is good, so you get to see a variety of scenery depending on the season.

Johnston Canyon and Icewalks

The adventure continues with a visit to Johnston Canyon, which features a trail that runs along waterfalls and cliffside views. During winter, guests can enjoy the Icewalk — a guided hike with complimentary crampon rentals. Walking along the frozen waterfalls and glistening ice formations is an experience that many reviews highlight as a highlight.

While some travelers feel the time at Johnston Canyon could be a bit tight, the guide often recommends the best spots for photos and helps you navigate safely, especially if you’re doing the Icewalk.

Exploring Banff Town & Vermilion Lakes

Later in the day, you’ll get a chance to stroll through Banff town, known for its charming streets, local shops, and historical landmarks. It’s a nice breather after the outdoor adventures, and you can grab a quick snack or explore some boutiques.

A stop at Vermilion Lakes offers a peaceful setting with reflective waters and mountain views, perfect for relaxing and capturing more photos. It’s a quieter, scenic spot that rounds out your day.

Return Journey

After a full day of exploring, the bus heads back to your starting point, typically arriving in Calgary around 6:00 PM, depending on traffic and stops.

What the Tour Includes and What You Should Know

This tour offers roundtrip transportation in a private vehicle, which is a real plus for comfort and convenience. It also includes a National Park Pass, so you don’t have to worry about extra fees at the entrances. The local guide is another big plus — reviews mention guides being personable, helpful, and knowledgeable.

Complimentary drinking water is available throughout the day, which is thoughtful, especially during the warmer months or if you’re doing winter ice walks. The tour makes extra stops for sightseeing and photography — perfect if you want to capture memories or spot wildlife.

On the flip side, meals are not included, so you’ll want to bring snacks or plan to eat in Banff town afterward. The day’s length means a long stretch on the bus, which may be tiring if you prefer more time at each site or are not used to full-day outings.

What We Think from the Reviews

Travelers consistently praise the quality guides, especially mentioning guides like Bally and Guru for making the experience engaging and personalized. As one reviewer noted, Bally was fantastic at taking photos and being personable — these small touches matter a lot when you’re spending a full day with a group.

The views, naturally, receive universal acclaim. “You really see a lot and almost always have enough time on site,” one review mentions, though some feel the timing at Johnston Canyon could be a bit tight to explore both waterfalls fully. But overall, most travelers agree that the scenery is stunning and well worth it.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is great for those who want a comprehensive day trip with minimal planning. If you’re a first-timer in Banff or prefer the comfort of a guided experience that hits all the highlights, this is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you want to see Moraine Lake and Lake Louise without worrying about driving or navigating park entries.

If you’re comfortable with longer days and want a reliable, well-organized way to enjoy Banff’s top sights, this tour will serve you well. Just remember, if you’re hoping for a leisurely, unhurried exploration or want more time at each stop, this might feel a bit rushed.

The Sum Up

All in all, this Banff tour offers a convenient, budget-friendly way to experience some of Canada’s most iconic scenery. With professional guides, efficient transportation, and plenty of stunning views, it’s a good fit for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing without the stress of planning each detail. It’s especially suited to those who value a knowledgeable guide and a well-organized schedule.

While it’s not a leisurely, slow-paced day, most visitors come away with great photos, memorable moments, and a better understanding of Banff’s natural beauty. The absence of included meals might require some forward planning, but the scenic stops and expert guidance more than compensate.

If you’re after a reliable, scenic day that hits all the highlights — and don’t mind a full schedule — this tour offers excellent value. For nature lovers, first-timers, and those who want a taste of Banff’s best, it’s a worthwhile option.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip transportation in a private vehicle is included from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff.

What lakes will I see?
You’ll visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (or Lake Minnewanka from October 15 to May 31). Both are stunning and iconic.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You should plan to bring snacks or eat in Banff after the tour.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, with departure times depending on your pickup location.

Can I participate in winter activities?
Yes, Johnston Canyon offers Icewalks with complimentary crampons in winter, adding a fun adventure to your day.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While families can enjoy it, keep in mind the full-day length and walking involved, especially at Johnston Canyon.

Do I need to prepare for the hike?
The hikes are generally accessible, and guides help with safety, but good walking shoes are recommended.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility for your plans.

This tour provides a solid, well-organized way to see Banff’s best spots in a day. Just bring your camera, some snacks, and a sense of adventure — you’re in for some incredible scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: