Banff/Canmore Moraine Lake & Lake Louise-Hike/Canoe/Sightsee

Discover the Highlights of the Banff/Canmore Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Tour

This full-day adventure, offered by Canmore Travel, takes you through some of the most iconic sights in the Canadian Rockies — Moraine Lake and Lake Louise — with extra time for exploration. Priced at $150 per person and lasting around 9.5 hours, it’s designed for those who want to slow down and really soak in the scenery. The tour departs from Canmore, Banff, or Harvie Heights, ensuring you don’t waste time on long drives or multiple transfers. Instead, you’re whisked in a comfortable, modern van with panoramic windows, and your experienced guide handles the logistics, so you can focus on the views.

What we love most about this tour is the priority access to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, thanks to special permits that skip the usual lines, especially during peak season. Plus, the generous extra time at each site allows for activities like hiking, canoeing, or simply relaxing and taking photos without feeling rushed. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour is quite long, so it might not suit travelers who prefer a more relaxed, less scheduled day.

This experience suits outdoor enthusiasts, photography lovers, or anyone eager to experience these stunning lakes at their peak. If you’ve ever wanted a more immersive visit rather than a quick snapshot, this trip offers the kind of flexibility and depth you’ll appreciate.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Priority access to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise with special permits
• Flexible options for timing at each lake to suit your interests
• Expert guides providing insights into local wildlife and geology
• Extra time for activities like hiking, canoeing, or simply relaxing
• Travel through wildlife corridors—potential animal sightings included
• Convenient pick-up points in Canmore, Banff, and Harvie Heights

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour is designed to maximize your time at two of the Rockies’ most famous lakes, giving you ample opportunity to really enjoy each spot. The day starts early, with pick-ups in Canmore, Banff, or Harvie Heights, in a comfortable van that’s ideal for scenic viewing through its large windows. Your guide will be with you throughout, sharing insights about the region’s wildlife, landscapes, and history.

Early Morning Departure and Wildlife Corridor Drive

Most departures are around 8:00 AM, and the journey begins with a scenic drive through a wildlife corridor. Keep your eyes peeled — sightings of bears, elk, and deer are common, though not guaranteed. This part of the trip sets the tone, highlighting the Rockies’ vibrant ecosystem and giving you a taste of the wilderness that surrounds these lakes.

Moraine Lake: The Crown Jewel

Once you arrive at Moraine Lake, you’ll notice the special permit allows priority access, so you beat the crowds that flock here later in the day. Depending on your selected option, you’ll spend either 1.5 or 3 hours exploring this remarkable spot.

Most travelers rave about the Rockpile, which offers breathtaking views of the valley’s signature emerald-green waters framed by towering peaks. If you’re up for a hike, the trail to Fairview Lookout provides a panoramic perspective. Many mention that the extra time allows for peaceful moments — whether snapping photos, strolling along the shoreline, or hopping into a canoe (note: canoe rentals are extra and managed by the hotels at the lakes).

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Lake Louise: An Icon Revisited

After Moraine, you’ll head to Lake Louise, where you’ll find yourself at one of the most photographed scenes in Canada. Depending on your chosen schedule, you’ll have between 2 and 3.5 hours here. The famous rock formations and glacier backdrop are best appreciated at your own pace.

Most guests take advantage of the time to walk the lakeshore trail, visit the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, or go for a paddle in a rented canoe. The tour’s extra time especially benefits those wanting to hike to Lake Agnes, a trail that starts near Lake Louise and offers a rewarding view of the lake’s surroundings.

Flexibility to Explore Your Way

What makes this tour stand out is the flexibility. You can opt to spend a longer time at Moraine Lake to hike the Rockpile or explore more of Lake Louise’s trails. Or, if you prefer, you can prioritize canoeing or simply taking in the scenery — the guide will accommodate your preferences as best as possible.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Guides

Over the years, reviews highlight the value of knowledgeable guides who are passionate about the region. One guest raved about Yannick, describing him as “friendly, on time, and a great host,” while others appreciated how guides like Dave shared insights about wildlife and local history. Several reviewers emphasized that guides are genuinely dedicated to making your day memorable, providing local insights that enrich the experience.

The Benefits of Small Group Tours

Most reviews comment positively on the small group size — most tours accommodate no more than 14 people. This creates a more personalized atmosphere, allowing for easier conversations, better interaction with guides, and the flexibility to customize your day.

Scenic Transportation and Convenience

The modern van with wide panoramic windows means you’ll enjoy the scenery en route without worrying about parking or navigating traffic. Plus, the door-to-door pickup in easily accessible locations saves you from long walks or multiple transfers, which can turn a day trip into a logistical puzzle.

What’s Included, and What’s Not

The tour price includes expedited access to the lakes, so you skip the lines, which is especially valuable during high season. It also includes comfortable transportation and a guide who will share stories and tips along the way.

However, canoe rental fees are not included, costing around $160 per hour at each lake — a worthwhile expense if you want to paddle in those crystal-clear waters. The hotels’ management handles rentals, so plan accordingly. Also, meals and snacks are not part of the package, so packing some snacks or a picnic is a good idea.

Pro Tip

Consider bringing comfortable shoes for hiking, warm clothing in case of weather changes, and an umbrella (which the tour provides free of charge). Early mornings can be chilly, even in summer, and weather can shift quickly in the mountains.

Real Traveler Experiences

Guests consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides, with comments like, “Yannick was great,” and “Dave was fabulous and gave us lots of interesting facts.” Many mention the extra time at the lakes made a huge difference, allowing them to paddle, hike, and relax rather than rushing through.

Several reviewers highlight that the tour is well-organized despite unpredictable mountain weather. One said, “Even in rain, it was a great day,” emphasizing the value of good planning and flexibility.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re someone who wants a comprehensive, hassle-free visit to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise with plenty of time for your favorite activities, this tour is a solid choice. The priority access and thoughtful scheduling ensure you see the lakes at their best, with less time wasted in lines or traffic. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make for a personal experience that’s both informative and flexible.

This tour suits travelers who value quality over quantity — if you’re eager to get more out of your day in the Rockies, whether that means hiking, paddling, or just soaking in the views, you’ll love the extra time and attention. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate local insights and want a convenient, well-organized trip that minimizes hassle.

However, if you prefer a very relaxed pace or are on a tight budget, you might consider other options, but remember, the added value of skipping lines and having guided insight makes this a memorable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes. The tour includes comfortable transportation in a modern van with panoramic windows, along with pick-up and drop-off in accessible locations in Canmore, Banff, and Harvie Heights.

How long do we spend at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise?
You can choose between two options: either 1.5 hours at Moraine Lake and 3.5 hours at Lake Louise, or 3 hours at Moraine Lake and 2 hours at Lake Louise. This allows you to tailor your experience based on your interests.

Are canoe rentals included in the tour?
No, canoe rental is not included. It costs approximately $160 per hour and is managed by the hotels at each lake. You can bring your own paddleboard if desired (advance notice appreciated).

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, most reviews suggest it’s family-friendly, especially since the group size is small and guides are helpful and engaging. Just ensure kids are comfortable walking and hiking.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, snacks, and a camera are recommended. Umbrellas are provided if needed. Be prepared for variable mountain weather.

Do I need to sign a waiver before the trip?
Yes, an electronic waiver must be signed at least 24 hours before departure. The link will be provided in your booking confirmation.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a photography lover, or just want to experience these remarkable lakes without the hassle, this tour offers a balanced and enjoyable way to spend a day in the Rockies. With flexible options, expert guides, and priority access, it’s a well-rounded choice that puts you in the best position to enjoy the beauty of Moraine Lake and Lake Louise at their most stunning.

You can check availability for your dates here: