The Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus provides a convenient and flexible way for visitors to explore Banff National Park’s stunning landscapes at their own pace. This shuttle service connects key attractions, including the renowned Johnston Canyon, the breathtaking vistas of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and the thrilling Lake Louise Gondola. With English-speaking tour escorts, GST included, and a schedule that runs from morning to evening, the Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus offers a hassle-free experience that allows travelers to enjoy the park’s natural beauty. However, what truly sets this service apart is the opportunity to customize your itinerary and spend as much time as you desire at each captivating destination.
Key Points
- The Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus provides a convenient way to explore Banff National Park at your own pace, with designated pickup and drop-off points.
- The shuttle service connects popular destinations like Banff, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Lake Louise gondola.
- Guests can choose their own itinerary and visit sites of interest, with a full-day exploration from 7:45 AM to 6:00 PM.
- The tour includes GST, an English-speaking escort, and allows travelers to hop on and off at their convenience.
- Highlights include hiking at Johnston Canyon, the Lake Louise gondola experience, and exploring the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
Overview and Inclusions
The Hop-On Banff bus provides visitors with the opportunity to explore Banff National Park at their own pace, offering convenient pickups and drop-offs from designated meeting points throughout the day.
The shuttle service connects Banff, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Lake Louise gondola, allowing travelers to choose their own itinerary and visit the sites that interest them most.
Tickets can be purchased in advance to guarantee a spot on the bus, and an English-speaking tour escort is available on each ride to provide information and assistance.
The price includes GST, and the shuttle operates on a schedule from 7:45 AM to 6:00 PM, ensuring a full day of exploration.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Banff.
Shuttle Schedule and Route
The Hop-On Banff bus operates on a regular schedule, departing from the Moose Hotel and Suites at 7:45 AM and 9:30 AM, and the Banff Train Station at 7:50 AM and 9:35 AM.
Travelers can expect to arrive back in Banff by 6:00 PM, providing a full day to explore the park’s highlights.
The shuttle connects Banff to several popular destinations, including Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Lake Louise Gondola.
Guests can choose where to visit and when, hopping on and off the bus at their convenience.
With an English-speaking tour escort on each bus, visitors can learn about the area’s natural wonders as they journey through the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park.
Hiking at Johnston Canyon
Among the many highlights of the Hop-On Banff bus tour is the opportunity to hike through the picturesque Johnston Canyon.
Visitors can embark on a scenic trail that winds its way along the canyon’s winding river, leading them to both the Lower and Upper Falls.
The Lower Falls offer a breathtaking view of the cascading water, while the Upper Falls provide a more challenging hike to a stunning viewpoint.
Along the way, hikers can admire the canyon’s limestone walls and observe the diverse wildlife that call this area home.
The Johnston Canyon hike is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Banff National Park, offering a chance to take in the park’s stunning landscapes.
Lake Louise Gondola Experience
Visitors on the Hop-On Banff bus tour can soar above the stunning vistas of Banff National Park on the Lake Louise Gondola, skipping the lines for a breathtaking aerial journey.
The gondola whisks passengers 2,088 meters (6,850 feet) above sea level to the breathtaking Lake Louise Ski Resort, offering panoramic views of the iconic Lake Louise and the surrounding mountains.
At the top, guests can explore hiking trails, visit the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, or dine at one of the restaurants.
The gondola ride is a highlight of the Hop-On Banff bus tour, providing an unforgettable perspective of Banff’s natural beauty and allowing visitors to escape the crowds and enjoy the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies.
Exploring Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
After soaring above Banff National Park on the Lake Louise Gondola, passengers can explore the stunning scenery of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, two of the park’s most iconic and photogenic destinations.
At Lake Louise, they’ll be awed by the emerald-colored lake, surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
Nearby, Moraine Lake is equally breathtaking, with its brilliant blue water and towering Valley of the Ten Peaks in the background.
Visitors can stroll along the lakeshore, hike to scenic viewpoints, and soak in the natural beauty that has made these locations famous worldwide.
Whether relaxing by the water or embarking on a more active adventure, exploring these two gems is a highlight of any Banff bus tour.
Accessibility and Age Restrictions
The Banff bus tour typically can’t accommodate wheelchair users, as the shuttle vehicles aren’t equipped with wheelchair lifts or ramps. Service animals are permitted to travel on the buses.
The tour is generally not recommended for children aged 4 and under, as the long transit times and outdoor activities may not be suitable for very young passengers.
Some key points regarding accessibility and age restrictions:
- The Banff bus tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
- Service animals are allowed on the shuttle buses.
- Children under 4 aren’t recommended for this tour.
- The long transit times and outdoor activities may not be suitable for very young children.
Duration and Return Time
The Banff bus tour runs from early morning to late afternoon, wrapping up by 6:00 PM. Passengers catch the first shuttle at either 7:45 AM from the Moose Hotel and Suites or 7:50 AM from the Banff Train Station, arriving back in Banff by 6:00 PM after a full day of exploring the park’s top attractions. The schedule is as follows:
| Departure Location | Departure Time |
|---|---|
| Moose Hotel and Suites | 7:45 AM, 9:30 AM |
| Banff Train Station | 7:50 AM, 9:35 AM |
| Return to Banff | 6:00 PM |
This allows ample time to visit Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Lake Louise Gondola at your own pace before heading back to town.
Additional Information
This Banff bus tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are permitted. Children under 4 are also not recommended for this full-day tour, which typically ends around 5 PM or 6 PM back in Banff.
The tour covers several key highlights, including:
- Hiking to the Upper and Lower Falls at Johnston Canyon.
- Soaring on the Lake Louise Gondola, skipping the line.
- Exploring the scenic vistas of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
- Enjoying the services of an English-speaking tour escort/host on each bus.
Advance ticket purchase is recommended to guarantee a spot on the shuttle, which departs from designated meeting points in Banff at 7:45 AM, 7:50 AM, 9:30 AM, and 9:35 AM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Buy Tickets on the Day of the Tour?
Yes, visitors can buy tickets on the day of the tour. However, it’s recommended to purchase tickets in advance to guarantee a spot on the shuttle and avoid disappointment, as availability may be limited, especially during peak season.
Is There a Discount for Booking Online in Advance?
Yes, there is a discount for booking the Banff bus tour online in advance. Purchasing tickets online ahead of time can save you money compared to buying them on the day of the tour.
Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Included?
The Hop-On Banff bus ticket doesn’t have any additional fees or costs not included. The price covers roundtrip transportation, an English-speaking tour guide, and GST. Guests can explore at their own pace without extra charges.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Shuttle?
Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the shuttle. The tour operator allows and encourages guests to pack snacks and beverages to enjoy during the day’s activities and travel between destinations.
What Happens if I Miss the Last Shuttle Back to Banff?
If you miss the last shuttle back to Banff, you’ll need to find your own transportation. The bus service doesn’t offer extended hours, so you’ll have to arrange a taxi, arrange a ride, or walk back to Banff on your own.
Recap
The Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus provides a convenient and flexible way to explore Banff National Park’s stunning landscapes.
With a comprehensive schedule and route, travelers can easily access key attractions like Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake at their own pace.
Whether seeking a scenic gondola ride or an invigorating hike, this service offers an exceptional way to take in the park’s natural beauty.
More Tour Reviews in Banff
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- Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Johnston Canyon Tour
- Banff: Bow Lake and Columbia Icefield Parkway Tour
- The Sights of Banff: a Smartphone Audio Walking Tour
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