Viator Rating : 5 (373 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.2/10 (Solid Experience)
Calgary
Banff's Best Lakes & Canyon: Full-Day Tour from Calgary
Overview
Lake Louise Moraine Lake Johnston Canyon Banff Town: Discover the best of Banff National Park on this full-day adventure! This bus tour takes you to the most beautiful spots, including the famous Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. From October 14 to May 31, Moraine Lake is replaced with visits to Emerald Lake and the Natural Bridge, equally stunning sights.
What can one expect on this scenic journey? First, travelers explore the amazing Lake Louise, known for its bright blue water and mountain views. Next, the tour heads to Moraine Lake (or Emerald Lake in the off-season), another gem with picture-perfect scenery. A hike through Johnston Canyon follows, where visitors can see cool waterfalls and unique rock formations. Finally, the adventure ends with a visit to Banff Avenue, the lively main street in Banff, where people can shop and soak in the town's charm.
The tour includes a local guide who drives an air-conditioned van, making for a comfortable ride. In the winter, crampons are provided for safe walking on icy paths. From June 1 to October 13, admission to Moraine Lake and Vermilion Lakes is included. From October 14 to May 31, admission to Emerald Lake and Natural Bridge is included instead. Note that suggested guide tips ($12 cash per person), meals, and travel insurance are not included. With excellent reviews and a commitment to quality, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in the Canadian Rockies. 
Experience DNA Fingerprint
Scores are shown on a scale of 1 to 10, 1 = lowest score, 10 = highest score.
What People Love
Safety (8 - Secure) : Strong feeling of safety and control
Upsell Risk (8 - Transparent) : No upsells or hidden costs
Logistics (8 - Seamless) : Smooth and well executed
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (8 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (9 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (4 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Mobility (5 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (6 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
See Lake Louise & Moraine Lake: Visit two of Banff's most beautiful lakes, famous for their bright blue water and stunning mountain views (Moraine Lake replaced by Emerald Lake & Natural Bridge from Oct 14 - May 31).
Hike Johnston Canyon: Take a walk through Johnston Canyon and see amazing waterfalls and cool rock formations.
Explore Banff Avenue: Enjoy the shops, restaurants, and sights of Banff's lively main street.
Comfortable Ride: Travel in an air-conditioned van with a local guide as driver for a relaxed and enjoyable trip.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved seeing the pretty lakes and waterfalls.
-
Many said the guide was very friendly and helpful.
-
People enjoyed having enough time at each stop.
-
Some visitors were happy about the small group size.
Some customers wished they had more time at Lake Louise.
-
A few people mentioned the bus was a bit crowded.
The Journey
Banff National Park
Begin your adventure in Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Canada's first national park. Founded in 1885, Banff offers a stunning panorama of towering mountains, pristine lakes, and evergreen forests. It's a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The gateway to the Rockies, Banff is more than just a starting point; it's an immersive experience in natural beauty and adventure.
Sulphur Mountain
Sulphur Mountain is an iconic landmark in Banff National Park, renowned for its panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys. A scenic gondola ride transports visitors to the summit, where they can explore interactive exhibits, stroll along the boardwalk, and marvel at the breathtaking vistas. At the summit, the Banff Gondola offers accessible interpretive boardwalks and the Banff Interpretive Centre. The mountain's unique name comes from the hot springs found on its lower slopes, which led to the creation of Banff National Park.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise, a glacial lake within Banff National Park, is famous for its turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks, including the majestic Victoria Glacier. The iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise stands elegantly on its shore, adding to the picturesque scene. Visitors can enjoy canoeing on the lake, hiking along its scenic trails, or simply soaking in the unparalleled beauty. Lake Louise is a photographer's dream and a quintessential Canadian Rockies experience.
Lake Louise Village
Lake Louise Village is a charming hamlet located near the world-famous Lake Louise in Banff National Park. It provides essential services and amenities for visitors, including a variety of dining options, accommodations, and shops. The village offers a convenient base for exploring the lake and surrounding hiking trails, as well as enjoying the area's natural beauty and recreational activities. Whether you're seeking a hearty meal or a cozy place to stay, Lake Louise Village enhances your experience in this stunning alpine destination.
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake, nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, is celebrated for its intense turquoise-blue waters and breathtaking alpine scenery. This iconic lake, open seasonally from June to mid-October, offers unforgettable views that have graced countless postcards and photographs. Visitors can hike along the Rockpile Trail for the classic Moraine Lake vista, canoe on its pristine waters, or simply bask in the tranquility of this natural masterpiece. Its vibrant color is due to rock flour deposited by glaciers, making it a unique and awe-inspiring destination.
Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake, situated in Yoho National Park, British Columbia, captivates visitors with its stunning emerald-green waters and serene mountain setting. As the largest of Yoho's 61 lakes and ponds, it's surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks, providing a tranquil escape into nature. Visitors can stroll along the shoreline, rent a canoe to explore the lake's calm surface, or hike the surrounding trails to discover hidden waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints. Its unique color comes from the fine particles of glacial sediment, known as rock flour, reflecting sunlight in a mesmerizing way.
Natural Bridge
The Natural Bridge in Yoho National Park is a remarkable geological formation sculpted by the relentless force of the Kicking Horse River. Over thousands of years, the river carved through the limestone rock, creating a natural bridge that spans its waters. Visitors can marvel at this breathtaking spectacle from various viewing platforms, witnessing the power and beauty of nature's artistry. The Natural Bridge offers a unique opportunity to connect with the raw, untamed wilderness of the Canadian Rockies and appreciate the dramatic forces that have shaped this stunning landscape.
Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon, a popular attraction in Banff National Park, offers a captivating journey through a deep, narrow gorge carved by Johnston Creek. A well-maintained trail leads visitors past cascading waterfalls, including the Lower and Upper Falls, and the unique Ink Pots – mineral springs that bubble to the surface. The canyon's dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and abundant wildlife make it a haven for nature lovers and photographers. In winter, the frozen waterfalls transform into stunning ice formations, attracting ice climbers and adventurous hikers.
Vermillion Lakes
Vermillion Lakes, located just west of Banff townsite, provide stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Rundle and Sulphur Mountain. These shallow lakes are a haven for wildlife, with abundant birdlife and occasional sightings of moose and elk. The lakes are especially beautiful at sunrise and sunset, when the sky's vibrant colors are mirrored in the still waters. A scenic boardwalk and viewing platforms offer excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing, making Vermillion Lakes a peaceful retreat from the bustling town of Banff.
Banff Avenue
Banff Avenue is the heart of Banff, a bustling street lined with shops, restaurants, galleries, and hotels. Framed by stunning mountain views, this vibrant avenue offers a diverse range of experiences, from souvenir shopping to fine dining. Visitors can browse local art, sample delicious cuisine, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere. Banff Avenue is also a gateway to outdoor adventures, with easy access to hiking trails, ski resorts, and other natural attractions.
Bow Falls
Bow Falls, located near the town of Banff and the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, is a picturesque waterfall on the Bow River. While not exceptionally high, the falls are known for their wide cascade and powerful flow, especially during the spring runoff. The falls have been featured in several films, including 'River of No Return' starring Marilyn Monroe. A scenic pathway provides easy access to viewpoints, allowing visitors to admire the falls' beauty and the surrounding mountain scenery. Bow Falls is a popular destination for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Canmore
Canmore, a charming mountain town nestled in the Bow Valley, offers a unique blend of outdoor adventure and urban amenities. Surrounded by towering peaks and pristine wilderness, Canmore is a haven for hikers, skiers, and nature enthusiasts. The town's vibrant Main Street is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, showcasing local art and cuisine. With its stunning scenery and welcoming atmosphere, Canmore provides a perfect base for exploring the Canadian Rockies.
Calgary
Calgary, a vibrant city in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies, blends urban sophistication with western hospitality. Known for the annual Calgary Stampede, a world-famous rodeo and festival, the city offers a diverse range of attractions, including museums, art galleries, and culinary experiences. Visitors can explore the iconic Calgary Tower for panoramic views, stroll along the scenic Bow River, or venture into the nearby mountains for outdoor adventures. Calgary serves as a gateway to the Rockies and a dynamic destination in its own right.
Know Before You Go
This full-day tour includes a local tour guide as driver and admission to either Moraine Lake & Vermilion Lakes (June 1 - Oct 13) or Emerald Lake & Natural Bridge (Oct 14 - May 31). An air-conditioned tour van is provided for transportation. In winter, crampons are provided for use at your own risk. It excludes suggested guide tips ($12 cash per person), meals, and travel insurance. Pickup is available from Calgary/Canmore/Banff, with drop-off options at Banff/Canmore/Calgary.
Hot Tip
Many travelers recommend wearing comfortable shoes for walking and hiking. Bringing a camera to capture the beautiful scenery is also a great idea. Be sure to bring cash for guide tips.
Review Summary
People find this tour an excellent all-in-one way to experience Banff's major attractions without the hassle of driving and parking.[2][5] The most frequently praised aspects include the knowledgeable local guides who share insider stories and photo tips, comfortable air-conditioned vehicles, and the convenience of hotel pickups from multiple starting points.[2][5] Travelers appreciate the inclusion of parks admissions and meals, as well as the special early-access opportunities to Moraine Lake, which is otherwise closed to personal vehicles.[5] The main limitation noted is the seasonal replacement of Moraine Lake with Emerald Lake from mid-October through May, and the tour is not suitable for those requiring wheelchair accessibility.[1][3]
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
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.
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.
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
$172.48
Snowshoe Top of the World: Banff's Best Views!
5.0
(94 reviews)
Duration: 270
minutes
Snowshoeing on Top of the World is a fun way to see Banff's beautiful winter land. Put on snowshoes and walk in a white, snowy place where there are no paths. It's just miles and miles of soft, white snow in front. A guide will take you to the nice winter land. This tour mixes fun, challenge, and learning. You'll love being outside in nature.
This tour takes you up to Standish Mountain. You'll ride in a gondola and chairlift. At the top, you'll see amazing views of Mount Assiniboine and the Canadian Rockies. You'll even walk across the line between Alberta and British Columbia. The tour includes hot chocolate and cookies to enjoy.
With professional guides, hotel pick-up and drop-off, snacks, poles and snowshoes included this is the best way to experience Banff!
Banff
$261.5
Unforgettable Icefields Parkway & Abraham Lake Ice Bubbles Adventure
5.0
(57 reviews)
Duration: 480
minutes
The Icefields Parkway & Ice Bubbles Adventure offers a mesmerizing journey to Abraham Lake's frozen bubbles and Peyto Lake's viewpoint. Traverse the scenic Icefields Parkway, witnessing breathtaking vistas. Enjoy cozy moments in the Rockies with hot drinks. This small-group tour ensures an intimate exploration of winter's wonders.
Banff
$195
Banff Canyoning: Heart Creek Adventure for Beginners
5.0
(41 reviews)
Canyoning Half Day - Heart Creek - Beginner friendly - Near Banff invites families and friends to explore the stunning Heart Creek Canyon, a short drive from Banff and Canmore. This adventure is perfect for canyoning beginners eager to learn to rappel. The rappels gradually increase in length and difficulty, offering a supportive and exciting experience.
Participants will navigate the canyon, encountering key stops such as the Parking Lot (Canyon Approach), Canyon Entrance (Rappel Workshop Area), and the Upper Canyon Section. A highlight includes the 18-Meter Waterfall in the Lower Canyon, followed by fun canyon slides and a scenic hiking trail. Expect to be partially in the water, requiring either rappelling or being lowered on a rope to progress through the canyon. A moderate level of fitness is recommended.
This half-day tour provides top-of-the-line wetsuits, a harness, belay device and lanyards, a helmet with an optional GoPro mount, a dry backpack, and a certified canyoning guide. Participants need to bring a bathing suit, towel, a small lunch or snacks, water, and closed-toe footwear suitable for getting wet. Water shoes and Keen-style hiking sandals are not allowed. Don't forget the Kananaskis conservation day pass, costing $15 per vehicle. Gratuities are not included. With expert guides and breathtaking scenery, this canyoning experience promises an unforgettable adventure for all.
Nearby Events
Grey Eagle Event Centre
Sep 04
8:00 PMJessica Kirson Comedy at Grey Eagle Calgary
Jessica Kirson brings her razor-sharp stand-up comedy to Grey Eagle Event Centre in Calgary. Known for her fearless takes on everyday absurdities and celebrity impressions, Kirson delivers high-energy performances that leave audiences in stitches, drawing from her extensive experience opening for comedy legends like Lewis Black and Sarah Silverman.
Jessica Kirson has built a stellar reputation in the comedy world with appearances on Comedy Central's This Is Not Happening, The Tonight Show, and her own specials, captivating fans with unfiltered humor on family, relationships, and pop culture. Grey Eagle Event Centre, a premier entertainment hub in Calgary, offers state-of-the-art acoustics and comfortable seating for an immersive comedy experience.
Grey Eagle Event Centre
Sep 18
4:00 PMCalgarys Traditional Oktoberfest Party Presented by Hofbräu Munich
Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
May 21
7:30 PMBook Tickets: Jurassic Park In Concert, Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra Live in Calgary
Jurassic Park In Concert with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra brings the legendary film to life at the Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium in Calgary, featuring the movie projected in HD while the orchestra performs John Williams' iconic score live to picture. This unique cinematic concert event allows audiences to experience the action-packed adventure of man versus prehistoric predators with groundbreaking special effects and visually stunning imagery, creating an unforgettable symphonic experience.
The Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra, known for its thrilling live performances, relives the magic of Jurassic Park on the big screen, delivering a must-see performance that captures the epic film's sheer movie magic 65 million years in the making. The Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, a premier venue for arts and theatre in Calgary, provides an ideal setting for this groundbreaking symphonic presentation.
Spruce Meadows
Sep 25
7:00 PMCavalry FC v. FC Supra Tickets at Spruce Meadows
Cavalry FC v. FC Supra at Spruce Meadows brings a high-energy soccer matchup to one of Calgary’s best-known venues, offering fans a live sports experience built around pace, rivalry, and atmosphere. With Cavalry FC front and center, the event appeals to local supporters and traveling soccer fans looking for a memorable matchday in Calgary.
Cavalry FC is a leading Canadian Premier League club known for its strong home support and competitive style, while FC Supra adds another layer of interest for fans following the matchup. Spruce Meadows is widely recognized in Calgary for major sporting events and spacious grounds, making it a distinctive setting for a live soccer event.
Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Sep 24
7:30 PMAlberta Ballet's Giselle at Jubilee Calgary
Alberta Ballet in Giselle at Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium brings one of ballet’s most beloved romantic classics to Calgary, led by Alberta Ballet’s acclaimed 2026-27 season presentation of Giselle*. The production is a major highlight on the company’s schedule, pairing dramatic storytelling, expressive choreography, and the emotional sweep that has made this title a staple for ballet audiences.
Alberta Ballet is widely recognized for presenting classic works with strong theatrical detail, and *Giselle* remains one of its signature romantic-era productions. Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium is a major Calgary performing arts venue known for hosting large-scale theatre and dance events, making it a fitting setting for this elegant and emotionally charged performance.
Scotiabank Saddledome
Aug 31
6:45 PMDeep Purple with Kansas & Jefferson Starship at Saddledome
Deep Purple with special guests Kansas and Jefferson Starship ignite the Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary for an epic night of classic rock mastery. These legendary bands, known for timeless anthems like 'Smoke on the Water,' 'Carry On Wayward Son,' and 'Jane,' deliver high-energy performances that celebrate decades of rock innovation and fan devotion.
Deep Purple's pioneering hard rock sound, fused with Kansas's progressive epics and Jefferson Starship's pop-rock flair, promises a multi-generational soundtrack of rebellion and melody. The Scotiabank Saddledome, Calgary's premier arena renowned for hosting world-class concerts, provides the perfect stage for this powerhouse lineup.
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