Nature lovers get straight-to-the-point guided options in Banff National Park. Four standout tours deserve special attention: The Johnston Canyon Icewalk is perfect for winter visitors, with minimal climbing but maximum frozen waterfall drama. For the most memorable glacier experience, the Columbia Icefield tour delivers – it’s a full-day commitment that puts you right on ancient ice. Skoki Lake Louise hikes offer the quintessential Rockies experience through meadows and forests, while the Sulphur Mountain trek rewards huffing and puffing with the park’s best panoramic views.
Let’s look at these essential Banff tours in detail.
Key Points
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Johnston Canyon Icewalk offers a 5-hour excursion through frozen landscapes, showcasing stunning frozen waterfalls and ice formations, suitable for adults.
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Columbia Icefield Glacier Hike provides a full-day experience exploring one of the largest non-polar icefields globally, with a Skywalk and Ice Explorer ride.
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Skoki Lake Louise Daily Guided Hike offers an 8-hour tour featuring scenic vistas, turquoise alpine lakes, and pristine forests, catering to outdoor enthusiasts.
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Sulphur Mountain Highline Guided Hike is a full-day tour led by an AAA ACMG certified guide, offering scenic views of Lake Louise and Assiniboine area.
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Banff National Park offers a variety of guided tours, both in winter and summer, catering to different skill levels and interests, with high demand and early booking recommended.
From Banff: Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk
Though Banff National Park is known for its stunning natural scenery during the warmer months, the winter season offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s frozen landscapes.
One popular tour is the Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk, a 5-hour excursion that takes visitors through the picturesque canyon to see its frozen waterfalls and icy formations. The tour includes hotel pickup, ice cleat rental, and a professional guide.
Participants can expect to see the Tunnel and frozen Lower Falls, the frozen Twin and Stella Falls, and the Cathedral of Ice at the Upper Falls. This tour is suitable for adults but not recommended for children under 8 or those with mobility issues.
With an overall rating of 5/5 from previous travelers, the Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk is a must-do winter activity in Banff.
Read our full review: From Banff: Johnston Canyon Guided Icewalk Review
Book now: Check availability
Columbia Icefield: Guided Glacier Hike
Exploring the breathtaking Columbia Icefield, one of the largest non-polar icefields in the world, is a must-do for adventurous visitors to Banff National Park.
The guided glacier hike offers an unforgettable opportunity to walk on the ancient ice, learn about its formation, and take in the stunning mountain scenery.
The tour lasts a full day and includes transportation from Banff/Jasper, the Skywalk experience, and the iconic Ice Explorer ride onto the glacier.
At $80.84 per person, it’s a unique adventure that provides incredible value.
With an impressive 4.6 rating from over 1,300 reviews, this guided glacier hike is a top pick for those seeking an extreme outdoor activity in the Canadian Rockies.
Read our full review: Columbia Icefield: Guided Glacier Hike Review
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Skoki Lake Louise Daily Guided Hike in the Canadian Rockies
Visitors seeking a premier hiking experience in the Canadian Rockies will find the Skoki Lake Louise Daily Guided Hike a captivating adventure.
Priced from Kč 2,698 per person, this 8-hour guided tour provides exclusive shuttle access to the Lake Louise backcountry, showcasing scenic vistas and turquoise alpine lakes.
Led by an English-speaking guide, hikers will traverse pristine forests, mountain creeks, and fields of wildflowers, culminating in a visit to a popular honeymoon spot for royalty.
The tour includes hotel pickup, a packed lunch, and bottled water.
With a 5/5 customer rating, this hike is a must-do for avid outdoor enthusiasts visiting Banff National Park.
Read our full review: Skoki Lake Louise Daily Guided Hike in the Canadian Rockies Review
Book now: Check availability
Banff: Sulphur Mountain Highline Guided Hike
The Banff: Sulphur Mountain Highline Guided Hike provides adventurous hikers with a chance to explore the stunning Sulphur Mountain in Banff National Park.
Priced at $189.52 per person, this full-day guided tour takes you through subalpine forests, limestone slabs, and high mountain scree slopes.
Led by an AAA ACMG certified guide, the hike offers scenic views of Lake Louise and the Assiniboine area.
After the trek, you’ll experience the gondola and visit exhibits at the top.
Suitable for beginner and intermediate hikers aged 12 and up, the tour includes a picnic lunch, snacks, and hiking gear.
However, it’s not recommended for children under 12 or those with mobility issues or low fitness levels.
Read our full review: Banff: Sulphur Mountain Highline Guided Hike Review
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Recap
Banff National Park offers a range of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the park’s stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in hiking to glaciers, exploring canyons, or taking in panoramic views, there’s a guided tour to suit your interests. With knowledgeable guides and well-planned itineraries, these tours provide a hassle-free and enriching way to experience the Canadian Rockies.