Viator Rating : 5 (72 reviews)
Dyvarcity Score : 7.0/10 (Solid Experience)
Banff
Banff's Emerald & Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Tour
Overview
The Emerald Lake, Moraine Lake, Lake Louise & Johnston Canyon from Banff tour shows off the best of the Canadian Rockies. This bus tour is perfect for anyone who loves nature and wants to see beautiful lakes and mountains. A professional tour guide will even take photos for you!
You'll see iconic spots like Lake Louise, famous for its pretty green water and big glaciers. You'll also stop at Emerald Lake, where the water is super clear and green, perfect for a calm walk. From June to mid-October, the tour includes Moraine Lake, another stunning spot. If Moraine Lake is closed, you'll visit Lake Minnewanka or Johnston Canyon instead. Other key stops include Cascade Mountain, Castle Mountain, the Natural Stone Bridge, and the charming town of Banff.
This full-day adventure includes pickup and drop-off in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff, plus travel in an air-conditioned vehicle. Please note that meals, personal expenses, activities, travel insurance, and guide gratuities (CAD$15 per person) are not included. With experienced guides leading the way, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the 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
Instagram Factor (9 - Iconic) : Highly photogenic and memorable
Guide Quality (8 - Exceptional) : Engaging and memorable
Guide Reliability (8 - Dependable) : On time with strong follow-through
What to Watch Out For
Crowd Density (5 - Standard) : Normal crowd, some waiting or tight spots
Upsell Risk (6 - Optional) : Upsells exist but avoidable
Logistics (7 - Friction) : Issues but experience continued
Mobility (6 - Moderate) : Some effort required
Pacing (6 - Uneven) : Inconsistent or mixed pacing
Highlights
See Lake Louise: Witness the beauty of Lake Louise, known for its emerald waters and glaciers.
Explore Emerald Lake: Discover the serene beauty of Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park.
Visit Moraine Lake (Seasonal): From June to mid-October, visit the iconic Moraine Lake with its vibrant blue waters.
Comfortable Transportation: Enjoy the tour in an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup and drop-off.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers loved the stunning views of the lakes and mountains.
-
They appreciated the guide's knowledge and helpfulness.
-
Many mentioned that the tour was well-organized and efficient.
-
The comfortable transportation was a plus for many reviewers.
Some customers wished for more time at certain locations.
-
A few reviewers mentioned that the bus could get crowded.
The Journey
Cascade Mountain
Cascade Mountain, a sentinel overlooking the town of Banff, offers a dramatic introduction to the Canadian Rockies. Its distinctive profile, etched against the sky, is visible throughout Banff, creating countless photo opportunities. Hike its trails for panoramic views of the Bow River Valley, or simply admire its imposing presence from the town below. Historically, Cascade Mountain has been a prominent landmark and an inspiration for adventurers and artists alike, making it an integral part of the Banff experience.
Mountain Lakes
The mountain lakes offer serene reflections of the surrounding peaks, creating a captivating visual spectacle. These pristine waters are a haven for wildlife and a paradise for photographers. Visit to capture stunning reflections, spot elusive wildlife along the shores, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Canadian Rockies. Whether you're hiking along the trails or simply relaxing by the water, the lakes offer a rejuvenating escape into nature's beauty.
Castle Mountain
Castle Mountain, a formidable landmark rising between Banff and Lake Louise, commands attention with its imposing, castle-like silhouette. Known to the Blackfoot as Miistukskoowa, its layered rock formations tell a story of ancient geological forces. Stop for stunning views, and explore the area's hiking trails. Its strategic location and distinctive appearance make it a must-see attraction on the Bow Valley Parkway.
Restricted Access Area
The area is available for visit only from 2025/Jun/1 to 2025/Oct/13. Plan your trip accordingly to be able to access this area and its landmarks.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise, a jewel of Banff National Park, captivates visitors with its breathtaking emerald waters and the majestic backdrop of the Victoria Glacier. The lake's shimmering surface reflects the surrounding Rocky Mountains, creating a postcard-perfect scene. Experience the magic of Lake Louise through hiking, canoeing in the summer, or ice skating and skiing in the winter. The iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise adds a touch of elegance to this already stunning destination, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Nestled on the shores of Lake Louise, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers a luxurious retreat with unparalleled views of the turquoise lake and surrounding peaks. Indulge in world-class dining, relax in elegant accommodations, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Banff National Park. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures or a peaceful escape, this iconic hotel provides the perfect base for exploring the Canadian Rockies in style.
Lunch Break
Enjoy a relaxing one-hour lunch break to recharge and savor the flavors of the region. Take this time to explore local eateries, sample regional specialties, and prepare for the next leg of your adventure. Whether you choose a cozy cafe or a scenic picnic spot, this break provides a welcome opportunity to unwind and appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.
Lower Spiral Tunnel
The Lower Spiral Tunnel, a remarkable feat of engineering in Yoho National Park, allows trains to navigate the steep grades of the Kicking Horse Pass. Witness the impressive sight of trains entering and exiting the tunnel, a testament to human ingenuity in overcoming challenging terrain. Learn about the history of the Canadian Pacific Railway and the crucial role these tunnels played in connecting the country. This unique attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of railway engineering and the challenges of building across the Rockies.
Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake, nestled in Yoho National Park, enchants visitors with its vibrant green waters and serene surroundings. The lake's shimmering surface reflects the towering peaks and lush forests, creating a picture-perfect scene. Stroll along the lakeside paths, rent a kayak or canoe, or simply relax and soak in the tranquility of this natural paradise. In winter, Emerald Lake transforms into a winter wonderland, with a blanket of snow adding to its fairytale-like charm. A visit to Emerald Lake is a journey into a world of unparalleled beauty and serenity.
Natural Stone Bridge
Located on the south bank of Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, the Natural Stone Bridge is a unique geological formation carved by the Kicking Horse River. Observe the power of nature as the river has sculpted this natural bridge over time. The bridge offers scenic views and a glimpse into the geological history of the area. Its accessible location and stunning surroundings make it a popular spot for visitors exploring Emerald Lake.
Mount Rundle
Mount Rundle, a sprawling mountain range stretching from Banff to Canmore, dominates the skyline with its seven distinct peaks. Hike its trails for breathtaking panoramic views of the Bow Valley and surrounding landscapes. Its iconic silhouette is visible from throughout Banff and Canmore, making it a defining feature of the region. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply seeking stunning scenery, Mount Rundle offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
Banff Town
Banff Town, a vibrant hub nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, welcomes visitors with its unique charm and lively atmosphere. Explore its charming streets, browse the eclectic shops, art galleries, and souvenir stores, and savor the diverse culinary scene. From local cafes to upscale restaurants, Banff Town offers something for every taste. Immerse yourself in the town's rich history, discover its cultural attractions, and experience the warmth of its welcoming community. Banff Town is the perfect base for exploring the natural wonders of Banff National Park.
Know Before You Go
This tour includes GST (Goods and Services Tax) and pickup/dropoff in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff in an air-conditioned vehicle. It excludes all meals, personal expenses, activities, travel insurance, and guide gratuities (CAD$15/person).
Hot Tip
Many reviewers suggest bringing snacks and drinks since meals are not included. Wearing comfortable shoes is also a must for walking around the lakes. Also remember that Moraine Lake is only included during the summer.
Review Summary
Customers generally say this tour is an excellent way to see multiple stunning lakes in one day without the hassle of self-driving in the Canadian Rockies.[1][3] Travelers consistently praise knowledgeable guides like Chris and Barry who provide helpful photo guidance, interesting historical commentary, and flexibility to extend the itinerary when time permits, with many mentioning they witnessed five lakes including Lake Peyto and Bow Lake plus glacier and river views.[1][3] While the tour is highly recommended for its scenic beauty, comprehensive itinerary, and value for money, some travelers note it's physically demanding with limited mobility accessibility and requires early morning departure times.[3]
Frequently Asked Questions
This page is synthesized and developed by Dyvarcity Team
More like this
Banff
$109.15
Enchanted Evening: Johnston Canyon Icewalk Under the Stars
4.9
(92 reviews)
Duration: 150
minutes
Johnston Canyon Evening Icewalk transforms Banff's popular trail into a magical nighttime adventure. Equipped with a souvenir headlamp, traverse frozen waterfalls and a suspended catwalk in quiet darkness. Enjoy hot chocolate and a maple cookie while appreciating the forest's scents and starry silence, guided in a small group.
Canmore
$89
Uncover Canmore's Hidden Past: A Lost Towns Hiking Adventure
5.0
(14 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Explore Canmore's history on the Lost Towns Trail hike. This 3-hour guided tour offers stunning Bow Valley views and insights into local flora, fauna, and historical context. Enjoy a moderate 5km hike with photo stops and expert guidance. Perfect for nature lovers seeking adventure and knowledge.
Calgary
$89
Banff National Park: A Whirlwind Day of Canadian Rockies Wonders
4.9
(114 reviews)
The 1 Day Banff National Park Tour from Calgary offers an immersive experience, exploring iconic sites like Johnston Canyon, Lake Minnewanka, and Surprise Corner. Ascend Sulphur Mountain via gondola and enjoy Banff Town's charm. This guided adventure showcases Banff's natural beauty and cultural appeal, creating lasting memories of the Canadian Rockies.
Banff
$132.31
Icefield Tour & Skywalk: Banff's Glacier Adventure
4.7
(1861 reviews)
Duration: 180
minutes
Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk is a fantastic adventure for everyone! It's a 3-hour bus tour to see two amazing places near Banff National Park: the Columbia Icefield and the Glacier Skywalk.
First, ride on a big Ice Explorer bus onto the Athabasca Glacier. You can walk on the ice, touch it, and even fill your water bottle with fresh glacier water! Then, get ready for awesome views at the Glacier Skywalk. It's a glass platform hanging over a cliff, where you can see everything below.
This tour includes a guided drive to the Athabasca Glacier and access to the Glacier Skywalk. All taxes and fees are included. Infant tickets are free, but required. Gratuities and transportation to/from the Glacier Discovery Center are not included.
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
$99
Banff Tour: Lake Louise & Moraine Lake from Calgary
4.9
(2741 reviews)
Explore the stunning beauty of Banff National Park on the Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Banff Tour from Calgary/Canmore/Banff. This award-winning tour, recognized as one of the Top 20 Experiences in Canada by Viator/Tripadvisor guests, offers an unforgettable adventure through the Canadian Rockies.
This tour provides a personalized experience with small groups and experienced local guides who love sharing their knowledge and taking great photos. The itinerary combines must-see destinations with hidden gems, ensuring a comfortable trip in an air-conditioned vehicle with large windows to fully appreciate Banff's beauty. This tour starts from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, making it easily accessible.
Visitors will witness iconic landmarks such as Lake Louise, famous for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop. Experience the majestic Moraine Lake, with its vibrant blue hues, and explore the charming Banff Avenue, discover the historical Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Surprise Corner, and Bow Falls. The tour includes entrance fees to Moraine Lake and special access to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, ensuring a seamless experience. It also features pick-up and drop-off service from Calgary, Banff, and Canmore. Please note that meals, personal expenses, and gratuities are not included.
Nearby Events
Scotiabank Saddledome
Mar 08
2:00 PMCalgary Hitmen vs Regina Pats Tickets at Saddledome
The Calgary Hitmen vs Regina Pats game at Scotiabank Saddledome is a thrilling junior hockey event showcasing top-tier athletes from the Western Hockey League. Both teams bring fierce competition and exciting gameplay, attracting passionate hockey fans to this iconic Calgary venue known for its vibrant atmosphere and rich sports history.
The Calgary Hitmen have a strong reputation for developing future NHL stars and delivering high-energy performances on home ice. The Regina Pats, one of the oldest teams in major junior hockey, add deep tradition and fierce rivalry to this matchup. Scotiabank Saddledome, renowned for hosting major sports and entertainment events, provides an unforgettable live experience in Calgary, Alberta.
Grey Eagle Event Centre
Apr 10
8:00 PMChippendales Live in Calgary | Grey Eagle Event Centre
Chippendales, the world's #1 male revue, brings their electrifying live performance to Grey Eagle Event Centre in Calgary. Known for seamlessly blending dancing, singing, and acrobatics, Chippendales delivers an unforgettable night of entertainment that has captivated audiences across the globe. This is an 18+ event designed for adults seeking a high-energy theatrical experience with world-class performers.
With decades of touring experience, Chippendales has perfected the art of creating an interactive, immersive show that goes beyond traditional entertainment. The troupe combines athleticism, artistry, and audience engagement to create moments that leave lasting impressions. Grey Eagle Event Centre, a premier venue in Calgary, provides an intimate yet spacious setting ideal for experiencing this legendary production.
Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
July 21
7:30 PMClue (Touring) Live at Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium
Clue (Touring) brings a dynamic theatre and comedy experience to Calgary's Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, a premier venue known for its superb acoustics and diverse arts programming. This captivating live show blends mystery and humor, showcasing the troupe's innovative storytelling and engaging performance style.
As a rising highlight in touring comedy theatre, Clue (Touring) captivates audiences with clever plot twists and sharp wit, making their performances memorable events. The Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium, home to Calgary Opera and Alberta Ballet, offers an intimate yet grand setting with seating for over 2,500 guests, ensuring an exceptional arts experience in Calgary.
Scotiabank Saddledome
Apr 30
8:00 PMDiljit Dosanjh Aura Tour Calgary Tickets
Diljit Dosanjh brings his *Aura World Tour 2026** to Scotiabank Saddledome in Calgary, delivering a high-energy spectacle of Punjabi music, infectious beats, and crowd-thrilling performances. Known for his chart-topping albums like *G.O.A.T.* and sold-out global tours such as Dil-Luminati, Diljit captivates with raw energy and unforgettable moments that blend traditional bhangra with modern vibes.
Diljit Dosanjh has risen as a global Punjabi music icon, breaking barriers with hits that dominate Spotify charts and electrifying live shows drawing massive crowds worldwide. Scotiabank Saddledome, a premier Calgary venue famed for hosting NHL games and major concerts, offers exceptional sightlines and acoustics for an immersive experience.
Jack Singer Concert Hall at Werklund Centre
July 24
7:00 PMStuff You Should Know Live — Calgary Tickets
Stuff You Should Know Live brings hosts Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant’s signature deep-dive storytelling and offbeat humor to Jack Singer Concert Hall at Werklund Centre, presenting a theatre-style show that blends researched episodes, unscripted banter and audience interaction as part of their touring live podcast events.[2][1]
.Stuff You Should Know began as a popular educational podcast in 2008 and has since expanded into live tours featuring rotating topics, fan-favorite segments, and occasional special guests; the live format turns curious topics into a communal theatre experience.[5][2] Jack Singer Concert Hall at the Werklund Centre is known for its excellent acoustics and intimate 1,800-seat setting, making it a favored Calgary venue for spoken-word and music performances.[2]
Grey Eagle Event Centre
May 01
7:30 PMBrad Williams Comedy Tour Calgary | Grey Eagle
Brad Williams brings The Tall Tales Tour to Grey Eagle Event Centre in Calgary, featuring one of comedy's most in-demand performers. The acclaimed stand-up comedian, born with achondroplasia, has become renowned for his razor-sharp wit and fearless storytelling that blends personal narrative with universal humor. His high-energy performances consistently earn standing ovations from audiences who connect with his ability to transform adversity into comedy gold.
Williams has built an impressive career highlighted by multiple Netflix specials, appearances on The Tonight Show and Jimmy Kimmel Live, and a groundbreaking performance as the first stand-up comedian to headline Cirque du Soleil's Mad Apple in Las Vegas. His specials "Fun Size" and "Daddy Issues" earned critical acclaim, with The New York Times declaring, "No one is doing stand-up comedy more hilariously than Brad Williams." Grey Eagle Event Centre, located in Calgary, Alberta, is known for hosting premier entertainment events and live performances.
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