Viator Rating : 5 (303 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 8.3/10 (Verified Excellent)
Banff
Banff Canoe Tour: Bow River Big Canoe Adventure!
90
Overview
Banff National Park Big Canoe Tour offers a serene escape on the Bow River. This guided tour, perfect for families and beginners, explores Banff's waterways in a 12-seater Big Canoe. No paddling experience is needed to enjoy this calm water adventure!
As the group paddles upstream, a local guide shares stories about the area's history and interesting local facts. The tour highlights the stunning views of Banff National Park and keeps an eye out for local wildlife. It begins at the Banff Canoe Club, a short walk from downtown Banff, where guests receive life jackets, paddles, and safety instructions before embarking on the river.
This river explorer tour lasts for a duration that allows seeing iconic landmarks. The experience includes a light refreshment and a guided tour on the Bow River. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (9 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (9 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Mobility (8 - Easy / Accessible) : Comfortable for most people
Pacing (8 - Balanced) : Smooth and comfortable timing
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (9 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (6 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Highlights
Paddle on the Bow River: Enjoy a relaxing canoe tour on the scenic Bow River in Banff National Park.
Guided Tour: Learn about the history and wildlife of Banff National Park from a local guide.
Family-Friendly Fun: Perfect for all ages and skill levels, no paddling experience needed.
See Wildlife: Keep an eye out for local wildlife while paddling through Banff's waterways.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers love the beautiful scenery and the relaxing pace of the canoe tour.
-
Many reviewers found the guide to be knowledgeable and entertaining.
-
Families appreciate that no prior paddling experience is needed, making it accessible for all ages.
-
Visitors enjoyed the opportunity to see wildlife along the river.
Some visitors found the tour too short.
-
A few reviewers mentioned that the refreshments were minimal.
The Journey
Banff Canoe Club
The starting point of the Big Canoe Tour, located just a 5-minute walk from downtown Banff. Here, participants receive safety instructions and equipment before embarking on their river adventure.
Bow River
A scenic river in Banff National Park, perfect for a guided canoe tour. The tour journeys upstream, offering views of wildlife and the surrounding natural beauty. The guide shares facts and stories about the area's history and ecology, enhancing the experience.
Banff National Park Waterways
The various rivers and streams within Banff National Park that are explored during the Big Canoe Tour. These waterways offer opportunities for wildlife watching and immersion in nature.
Know Before You Go
This Banff National Park Big Canoe Tour includes a guided tour, life jackets, paddles, and light refreshment. Hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The meeting point is at the Banff Canoe Club, a 5-minute walk from downtown Banff.
Hot Tip
Reviewers suggest bringing a hat and sunscreen, even on cloudy days, as the sun reflects off the water. They also advise arriving a few minutes early to get fitted for your life jacket and hear all of the guide's safety instructions.
Review Summary
Customers finds this Banff National Park Big Canoe Tour to be a memorable and family-friendly experience, praising the knowledgeable and friendly guides, the scenic views of the Bow River, and the opportunity to spot wildlife. Many highlight the ease of participation for all ages and fitness levels, as well as the safety instructions and provided equipment. The main drawbacks mentioned include the lack of wheelchair accessibility and occasional weather dependency, but overall, travelers consistently rate the tour as highly enjoyable and recommend it for its value and unique perspective of Banff National Park.
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Calgary
$95
Banff Day Trip: See Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
4.9
(680 reviews)
Discover Banff National Park on a premium day trip. There's no set plan, each stop will be more amazing than the last. Get ready to laugh and enjoy the ride as you explore incredible sights and spot unique wildlife.
This tour includes must-see places in Banff, like the scenic drive through Kananaskis and stops at Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka, Downtown Banff, Surprise Corner, Lake Louise, Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake, Vermilion Lakes. In the summer, visit Moraine Lake. Explore on your own at each stop! The tour includes park entrance fees and bottled water, while excluding things like meals, gondola rides, or boat tours.
This tour uses small groups, usually between 8 and 12 people. This means it's easy to ask questions and learn about the local culture, history, and environment. This tour even offers front door pick-up and drop-offs! Prepare to be amazed by the Canadian Rockies.
Calgary
$155
Moraine & Louise Tour: Banff's Best Kept Secret!
5.0
(230 reviews)
Explore Banff National Park's gems on the Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Tour from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff. This full-day bus tour unveils the stunning landscapes of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Prepare to be captivated by the bright blue waters of Lake Louise and the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.
This tour ensures a comprehensive experience of Banff National Park. The adventure includes a visit to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Banff town. Discover the scenic beauty of Canmore, with views of the Three Sisters mountains, Kananaskis Lakes, Banff Downtown, Johnston Canyon, the Bow River, and the iconic Calgary-Lake Louise Route. The guides are ready to help capture the best pictures. Leave the driving to them and immerse in nature. The small group setting, with a maximum of 24 people, guarantees a personalized and family-like atmosphere.
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off service from Calgary, Banff, and Canmore. Not included are door-to-door pickup (guests meet at designated points) and personal expenses like meals, activity fees, admission fees, phone, and travel insurance.
Banff
$220
Lake Louise & Icefields Parkway: Full-Day Tour
4.9
(835 reviews)
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and the Icefields Parkway Full-Day Tour shows off some of the prettiest sights in Canada! This tour, run by a local family, takes folks to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Bow Lake. Get ready for amazing views of snowy mountains, clear lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls.
During this 8-hour trip, guests will see Lake Minnewanka, Chateau Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Icefields Parkway, Bow Lake, Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint, and Peyto Lake. The tour takes up to 22 people in a private vehicle, ensuring a cozy and personalized experience. Guests can look forward to an expert guide who knows all about the park and its cool spots.
What's included are pickup and drop-off at meeting points and transport. Please note that what's excluded is Gratuities, food, and drinks. This tour is a great way to see a lot of Banff National Park's beautiful lakes in just one day!
Banff
$75
Craft Your Own Gin in Banff: Distillery Tour & Tasting
5.0
(160 reviews)
Duration: 60
minutes
Blend Your Own Gin Experience in Banff. This unique experience invites guests to discover the art of gin-making. It's perfect for those who love food and drink and want to learn about local craft spirits.
During the experience, visitors will tour a real distillery and taste different craft spirits. After that, they get to be the gin maker! They can touch, smell, and pick their favorite botanicals to create a special gin just for them. Plus, they get to design a custom label for their bottle. This experience includes a 750ml bottle of PARK Vodka, a custom label, a guide who speaks English, a distillery tour, four samples of craft spirits, and all the botanicals needed for gin infusion. Gratuities are not included.
PARK Distillery is known for its award-winning spirits and dedication to using local ingredients. With experienced guides and a hands-on approach, this experience offers an unforgettable taste of Banff's vibrant distillery scene.
Banff
$144.99
Savor Banff: A Culinary Walking Tour Through the Rockies
5.0
(91 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Take a Bite of Banff offers a delicious walking tour, sampling Canadian cuisine while exploring Banff's scenic streets. Led by local guides, discover hidden gems and learn about the town's history. This small-group experience combines food, culture, and stunning mountain views. Perfect for foodies!
Banff
$59
Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Shuttle from Banff & Canmore
4.9
(320 reviews)
Shuttle from Canmore and Banff to Lake Louise & Moraine Lake offers an easy way to see two of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies. This bus tour is perfect for anyone who wants to experience nature and wildlife without the stress of driving and parking.
Imagine standing at the edge of Moraine Lake, surrounded by towering mountains and the vibrant blue water. Or picture yourself at Lake Louise, with the iconic Fairmont Chateau and Victoria Glacier in the background. This shuttle makes it easy to see these amazing places. You can relax and enjoy the ride while a knowledgeable driver takes you there. The shuttle includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and covers the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Keep in mind that gratuities are not included, and there's an extra fee for large luggage.
The shuttle picks up passengers in Canmore and Banff, making it convenient for travelers staying in either town. Key stops include the stunning Moraine Lake and the world-famous Lake Louise. This service offers a comfortable and reliable way to explore the Canadian Rockies. Please note that there's an additional fee for cabin-size luggage. This tour ensures a memorable and stress-free experience.
Nearby Events
Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Nov 06
7:30 PMDisney Tim Burton's Nightmare Before Christmas Tickets
Disney Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas In Concert and Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium bring a beloved holiday cult classic to life with a full live orchestral performance, projected film, and Danny Elfman’s iconic score. The production centers on Jack Skellington’s unforgettable journey through Halloween Town and its strange collision with Christmas, making it a standout symphonic event for fans of film, fantasy, and seasonal classics.
The concert presentation is licensed by Disney Concerts and is designed to showcase the movie’s music in a theatrical setting, with the story and score carrying the experience from start to finish. Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium is one of Calgary’s major performance venues, known for hosting large-scale arts and theatre events in a polished, professional setting.
WinSport Event Centre
Nov 28
2:00 PMSesame Street Live Calgary Tickets: Elmo's Got the Moves
Sesame Street Live: Elmo's Got the Moves brings Sesame Street favorites to WinSport Event Centre in Calgary, pairing upbeat music, playful movement, and audience participation for a family-friendly theatre experience. The current tour is actively traveling across North America, making this Calgary stop part of a broader live show run built around Elmo and friends.
Sesame Street Live remains one of the most recognizable children’s entertainment brands, with the show featuring singing, dancing, stretching, and fan-favorite songs like “Sunny Days,” “Elmo’s Got the Moves,” and “Letter of the Day.” WinSport Event Centre is a versatile Calgary venue known for hosting major events in a large, modern setting that works well for families and group outings.
McMahon Stadium
Nov 15
5:00 PM113th Grey Cup at McMahon Stadium
The 113th Grey Cup lights up McMahon Stadium in Calgary, AB, delivering the pinnacle of Canadian football excitement as the nation's top CFL teams clash for championship glory. This storied event crowns the season's champion in a high-stakes showdown filled with riveting plays, passionate fans, and football tradition at its finest.
Renowned as Canada's premier football championship since 1909, the Grey Cup embodies national pride and intense rivalries, drawing massive crowds for unforgettable moments. McMahon Stadium, with its 35,650 permanent seats expandable for Grey Cups, stands as a Calgary landmark built in just 100 days in 1960 and home to the Calgary Stampeders.[2][3]
Grey Eagle Event Centre
Aug 15
8:00 PMChelsea Handler High & Mighty Tour Calgary Tickets
CHELSEA HANDLER: THE HIGH AND MIGHTY TOUR brings comedian Chelsea Handler to Grey Eagle Event Centre in Calgary for an unfiltered night of stand-up comedy. Known for her bold humor tackling politics, relationships, and personal anecdotes, Handler delivers sharp wit that has earned her a massive following through hit Netflix specials like 'Revolution' and bestsellers such as 'Life Will Be Sweet.'
Chelsea Handler stands out as a comedy powerhouse with over two decades of boundary-pushing performances, including her E! series 'Chelsea Lately' and recent tours showcasing her fearless takes on modern life. Grey Eagle Event Centre offers an intimate setting perfect for Handler's interactive style.
Westerner Park - Exhibition Hall
Oct 01
8:00 PMGerry Dee Comedy Night at Westerner Park Red Deer
SPIRIT OF RED DEER'S OKTOBERFEST COMEDY NIGHT w/ GERRY DEE brings Canada's favorite comedian Gerry Dee to Westerner Park - Exhibition Hall for an uproarious evening of stand-up laughs. Known for his sharp wit and relatable storytelling from his hit TV show Mr. D and sold-out tours, Gerry Dee delivers high-energy comedy that has fans roaring with laughter.
Gerry Dee, through Gerry Dee Live!, captivates audiences with observational humor drawn from everyday life, family chaos, and Canadian quirks, earning him a loyal following across North America. Westerner Park - Exhibition Hall, a premier venue in Red Deer, AB, hosts unforgettable events in its spacious exhibition space.
Grey Eagle Event Centre
Jan 15
7:00 PMMorgan Jay: The Goofy Guy Tour in Calgary
Morgan Jay: The Goofy Guy Tour brings the Los Angeles-based musician and comedian to Grey Eagle Event Centre in Calgary for an unforgettable evening of performance art and comedy. Known for his viral TikTok presence with millions of followers and his appearances on MTV's Wild'N'Out, NBC, and Comedy Central, Morgan Jay has crafted a unique genre that blends imperfect, authentic humor with musical performance. His show is built on relatability, shared experience, and genuine connection with audiences who crave something beyond traditional stand-up.
With his Brazilian and Italian heritage influencing his musical style—drawing from classic R&B and Bossanova—Morgan Jay offers a refreshingly original performance that appeals to both comedy and music fans. A Tisch School of the Arts graduate who started his career in New York's alternative comedy scene, he has won multiple awards across U.S. comedy festivals, including the International Songwriting Competition, and was recognized as a 2023 Just For Laughs New Face. Grey Eagle Event Centre, located in Calgary, Alberta, serves as the perfect venue for experiencing this multi-talented performer's genre-bending artistry.
The Bucket List Playbook: Top Things to do in Calgary
Ready for adventure? Dyvarcity is your ultimate guide to the top 100 things to do in Calgary From must-see attractions like Short Term Availability, Music, Bus Tours & Pop in Calgary. We've handpicked events & experiences with passion: whether you love activities that move your body, vibrant music, sports, food, or cultural explorations.
View Calgary Activities