Exploring the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies is a must-do experience for any visitor to Calgary. This day trip from the city takes travelers on a captivating journey through some of the region’s most iconic natural wonders. From the serene turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to the thundering cascades of Johnston Canyon, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the breathtaking beauty that abounds in this corner of the world. With knowledgeable guides, delectable meals, and plenty of opportunities for photography and wildlife sightings, this adventure promises to leave a lasting impression. What makes this excursion truly exceptional, however, is the chance to take in the untamed grandeur of the Rockies.
Key Points
- This comprehensive tour from Calgary explores the iconic Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Johnston Canyon in the Canadian Rockies over a 10-hour adventure.
- Highlights include one-hour visits to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, a scenic lunch at Lake Louise Ski Resort, a 1.5-hour hike at Johnston Canyon, and time to explore Banff Town.
- The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a live guide, and GST, priced from $66.02 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Multilingual guides cater to diverse travelers, and the tour features opportunities for photography, wildlife spotting, and discovering the region’s natural wonders and history.
- Participants can expect a well-rounded experience covering the most famous attractions in the Canadian Rockies near Calgary.
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Tour Overview and Pricing
This tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the stunning Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in the Canadian Rockies.
Priced from $66.02 per person, it’s an excellent value for a 10-hour adventure. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later to secure their spot.
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, an air-conditioned vehicle, a live guide, and GST. Visitors will marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, admire the breathtaking vistas of Moraine Lake, hike to Johnston Canyon’s waterfalls, and explore the charming town of Banff.
With the option of multilingual guides, this tour caters to a diverse range of travelers.
Itinerary Highlights
The day begins with a pickup at Delta Hotels Calgary Downtown at 7:20 AM, allowing participants to embark on their journey to the breathtaking Lake Louise. After an hour of sightseeing and photography, the tour moves on to explore the stunning vistas of Moraine Lake for another hour. Midday, a lunch break is scheduled at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, where diners can enjoy panoramic mountain views. In the afternoon, the group embarks on a 1.5-hour hike to the impressive waterfalls of Johnston Canyon. The scenic drive along Bow Valley Parkway offers opportunities for wildlife spotting before the tour arrives in Banff Town for 45 minutes of exploring shops, cafes, and galleries.
| Morning | Midday | Afternoon |
|---|---|---|
| – Visit Lake Louise (1 hour) | – Lunch at Lake Louise Ski Resort (1 hour) | – Johnston Canyon hike (1.5 hours) |
| – Explore Moraine Lake (1 hour) | – Scenic drive along Bow Valley Parkway | |
| – Explore Banff Town (45 minutes) |
Morning Activities
The morning portion of the tour takes visitors to two of the most iconic lakes in Banff National Park – Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
Arriving at Lake Louise, guests have an hour to soak in the stunning emerald-green waters and majestic glacial peaks.
Next, the tour moves on to Moraine Lake, where an additional hour is spent marveling at the breathtaking, turquoise-colored lake nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
Both lakes offer ample opportunity for photography and exploration before the tour continues on to the next destination.
Midday Experiences
After exploring the stunning Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in the morning, the tour moves on to an hour-long lunch at the Lake Louise Ski Resort.
Perched amidst the majestic mountains, the ski resort offers panoramic vistas that set the stage for a leisurely midday meal. Guests can savor local cuisine while taking in the breathtaking panorama.
This break provides a chance to refuel and recharge before the afternoon’s adventures. With the Canadian Rockies as a backdrop, the lunch at Lake Louise Ski Resort promises an unforgettable experience that seamlessly transitions the tour from the morning’s natural wonders to the afternoon’s activities.
Afternoon Exploration
Following the afternoon’s leisurely lunch, the tour embarks on a 1.5-hour hike along the Johnston Canyon trail. Guests are treated to the breathtaking views of the canyon’s waterfalls and serene natural surroundings.
The trail winds through a network of catwalks and footbridges, allowing visitors to get up close with the cascading waters.
After the hike, the group enjoys a scenic drive along the Bow Valley Parkway, keeping an eye out for wildlife roaming the area.
The day wraps up with a 45-minute exploration of Banff Town, where guests can browse local shops, cafes, and galleries before returning to Calgary around 6:30 PM.
Late Afternoon Sights
Along the Bow Valley Parkway, the tour group embarks on a scenic drive, keeping a watchful eye for any wildlife that may be roaming the area.
The route offers a chance to spot elk, bighorn sheep, or even bears in their natural habitat. As the vehicle meanders through the picturesque landscape, the guide points out hidden gems and shares fascinating stories about the history and ecology of the region.
The scenic drive provides a tranquil transition before the group arrives in the charming town of Banff, where they can explore the local shops, cafes, and galleries.
Evening in Banff Town
As the scenic drive along the Bow Valley Parkway comes to an end, the group arrives in the charming town of Banff.
The tour participants have approximately 45 minutes to explore the lively downtown area, taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Some key sights and activities include:
- Browsing the unique boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops
- Indulging in local cuisine at the various cafes and restaurants
- Admiring the picturesque mountain vistas that surround the town
- Experiencing the bustling energy of Banff’s pedestrian-friendly streets
The group will then depart Banff and head back to Calgary, arriving around 6:30 PM, concluding this comprehensive tour of the stunning Lake Louise and Moraine Lake region.
Included and Excluded Services
The tour package includes several services to enhance the overall experience.
Travelers will enjoy air-conditioned vehicle transportation and pickup/drop-off services. The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is also covered. Plus, a knowledgeable tour guide will accompany the group throughout the day, providing insights in multiple languages.
However, the package excludes meals, personal expenses, activities, and travel insurance. Gratuities for the guide, at CAD$15 per person, are also not included.
Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun protection, and appropriate attire for the day’s activities.
Advance arrival and compliance with the rules regarding prohibited items are also emphasized.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour itinerary doesn’t specify a maximum group size. As this is a private tour, the group size is likely flexible based on the number of travelers booking the experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, all meals are excluded from the tour price, so any food or beverages brought must be self-provided.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?
The tour has no age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. Guests are advised to bring appropriate attire and footwear for the activities and environmental conditions.
Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour?
The tour’s duration is fixed at 10 hours. However, travelers can extend their exploration by booking additional excursions or adding extra stops within Banff National Park, subject to availability and an adjusted price.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary?
Yes, the tour allows for some customization. Guests can request changes to the itinerary, such as adjusting the duration or adding/removing stops, subject to availability and additional fees. The tour operator aims to accommodate personalized requests where possible.
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Recap
This awe-inspiring day trip from Calgary showcases the breathtaking natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Visitors will discover the iconic lakes, hike to stunning waterfalls, and enjoy a delightful lunch, making it an unforgettable experience. With guided insights, ample photo opportunities, and the chance to spot wildlife, this adventure in nature’s grandeur is not to be missed.