Banff 2-day: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon tour

This experience made our article of 6 Top 2-Day Tours In Banff (With Reviews & Prices).

Discover the beauty of the Canadian Rockies on a 2-day Banff tour

Imagine cruising through the rugged mountains and lush forests of the Canadian Rockies, with stops at some of the most iconic sights like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Johnston Canyon. For just $78 per person, this organized tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the natural splendor of Banff National Park over two days. Led by guides with 30 years of experience, you get more than just sightseeing—you get stories, tips, and a taste of local knowledge that makes each stop special.

We love that this tour includes panoramic views from the Sulphur Mountain Gondola and the opportunity to wander through Banff Town with its lively shops and eateries. Plus, the visit to Johnston Canyon, with its scenic walking trails and waterfalls, is a highlight that appeals to nature lovers and casual explorers alike.

One thing to consider is that this is a daylight-only tour, so if you’re hoping for sunset views or want to extend your stay in Banff, you’ll need to plan separately. This tour appeals most to travelers looking for a budget-friendly, expertly guided experience that balances sightseeing with authentic local stories.

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Key Points

Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon, and Banff Town.
Expert guides: 30 years of experience translate into engaging stories and local insights.
Flexible options: Optional activities like the Sulphur Mountain Gondola enhance the experience.
Value for money: At $78, the tour includes park fees, guiding, and transportation.
Limited overnight: No accommodations included; plan your stay in Banff or Calgary separately.
Weather-dependent stops: Some stops may change based on weather or closures.

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A detailed look at the 2-day Banff tour experience

Starting out from Calgary or Banff

The tour begins bright and early, with pickup from a central location—either in Calgary or Banff itself. Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, we found that the scenic drive offers excellent views of the wilderness, especially as we headed west into the mountains. The day is designed to maximize time at each site, with a good balance of travel and exploration, so you’re not just sitting on a bus all day.

Day 1: Exploring the highlights of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

Our first major stop was Lake Louise, a place so iconic that it’s practically a symbol of the Canadian Rockies. Named after Princess Louise, this vast lake’s icy waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks. We appreciated the roughly two-hour stop, which gave us enough time to take photos, breathe in the mountain air, and enjoy the scenery’s sheer grandeur.

Next, we headed to Moraine Lake in Ten Peaks Valley. The vivid turquoise waters of Moraine Lake are just as breathtaking as the postcards suggest. The guide shared stories about the glacier melt that causes the lake’s color to shift through summer, making each visit unique. We loved the way the mountains framed the lake, creating a scene that feels almost surreal. Since Moraine Lake is only open from early June to early October, your experience will be best during these months, but if it’s closed, the tour replaces this stop with Vermillion Lake.

From Moraine Lake, we crossed into Yoho National Park, a less crowded but equally impressive area. Here, we passed the Spiral Tunnel, an engineering marvel built in 1909, where the train line spirals beneath itself twice—an impressive feat of early 20th-century design. The guide explained how this tunnel was essential for the railway’s grade and made for an interesting story.

Our day continued with a stop at Emerald Lake, famous for its green waters caused by mineral deposits. The short 20-minute walk around the lake offers stunning views and a peaceful setting. Then, we visited the Natural Bridge, a natural rock formation carved by water erosion—a powerful reminder of the landscape’s ongoing change.

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Day 2: Banff’s highlights and panoramic views

On the second day, our adventure shifted to Banff Town and its surrounding sights. The Banff Sulphur Mountain Gondola was an optional activity, but well worth the extra cost if you want panoramic, 360-degree views of the Rockies. The ride itself is smooth, offering spectacular vistas that make for incredible photos and memorable moments. We recommend allocating about 90 minutes here.

Johnston Canyon is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates nature’s artistry. The walking trail is accessible year-round and features stunning waterfalls and narrow canyon walls. The guide shared tips for the best viewing spots, and the short stop of about 60 minutes allows for a leisurely walk and photo opportunities.

We also stopped at Bow Falls, famous for its appearance in the film “River of No Return,” and Surprise Corner, which offers a fantastic view of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, often called the “Castle in the Rockies.” The Hoodoos, tall, thin rock formations created by erosion, add a whimsical touch to the landscape.

Finally, the tour concludes with about 90 minutes in Banff Town, giving you time to explore shops, grab a meal, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this lively mountain village.

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What makes this tour stand out?

Guides with decades of experience

Having a guide with 30 years of local knowledge greatly enriches the experience. We loved the way our guide shared stories about the history, geology, and ecology of the area, making each stop more meaningful than just sightseeing. This personal touch turns a basic tour into a memorable learning experience.

Carefully curated stops

The itinerary hits the highlights—Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon—and some lesser-known gems like Emerald Lake and the Natural Bridge. Each stop is timed well, giving you ample opportunity to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

Authentic, scenic experiences

It’s not just about ticking boxes. The tour offers genuine moments of awe—whether that’s standing at the edge of Moraine Lake or walking along Johnston Canyon’s trails. Photography lovers will especially appreciate the stops, as the scenery lends itself to stunning images.

Value for money

At $78, this trip includes park entry, a knowledgeable guide, and transportation. The optional Gondola ride is an additional expense but offers a panoramic perspective that’s hard to beat. Considering the cost of individual park entries and private tours, the price is quite reasonable for a two-day guided experience.

What to consider

Since it’s a daylight tour only, you won’t see sunset views or nightlife. Also, this is a tour without accommodation, so you’ll need to book your lodging in Banff or Calgary separately. The weather can affect some stops, especially in shoulder seasons, so flexible planning is wise.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights of Banff and the Rockies without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. It’s especially appealing to those seeking an affordable, guided experience with expert commentary. If you prefer a structured schedule that covers the must-see sights in a short timeframe, this will suit you well.

It’s also great for first-time visitors who want a broad overview but don’t want to miss the major landmarks. However, if you’re after a very personalized or slow-paced experience, or if you prefer to stay overnight in the parks, you might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up: Why choose this tour?

This 2-day Banff tour offers an excellent balance of convenience, value, and scenic beauty. With knowledgeable guides, well-chosen stops, and plenty of stunning views, it’s a strong choice for those new to the Rockies or those on a budget. You’ll enjoy authentic experiences like walking through Johnston Canyon and capturing iconic shots of Moraine Lake, all while learning about the area’s stories and geology.

While it doesn’t include overnight accommodations, it offers a solid foundation for exploring Banff and the surrounding wilderness. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or simply someone wanting a hassle-free way to see the best, this tour provides a memorable, enriching adventure.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for first-time visitors?
Absolutely. It covers all the major sights and is designed for people who want an overview without the hassle of self-driving or planning.

How much time do we spend at each stop?
You’ll have about two hours at Lake Louise, around 60 minutes at Moraine Lake, 20 minutes at Emerald Lake, and 15 minutes at Natural Bridge. Day two includes approximately 90 minutes for the gondola, 60 minutes for Johnston Canyon, and 90 minutes in Banff Town.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll want to bring snacks or plan to buy food in Banff Town or along the way.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and your camera. Luggage and personal expenses are your responsibility, and a checked-in luggage fee applies if you have larger bags.

Can I join the tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, given the nature of some stops and walking trails.

What happens if the weather causes closures?
Stop locations are weather-dependent. If a site is closed, the guide will suggest alternative points of interest, ensuring your experience remains fulfilling.

This detailed, practical tour review aims to give you all the insights needed to decide whether this Banff 2-day experience matches your travel style. It’s a well-paced, scenic, and informative journey into one of Canada’s most stunning regions—sure to leave you with lasting memories of the mountains’ wild beauty.