Banff Lake louise Ski Gondola Ride and three Lake Day tour

When we think about the Canadian Rockies, Banff naturally comes to mind — a destination that promises jaw-dropping scenery at every turn. This full-day tour, offered at around $75 per person and lasting 10 hours, packs in an impressive lineup of sights: a ride up the Banff Lake Louise Ski Gondola, visits to Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, and Lake Louise, plus some relaxing moments at the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Guided by friendly local experts, this tour is designed to give you a well-rounded taste of the area’s natural beauty and local charm.

What we really appreciated are the stunning panoramic views from the gondola — the sweeping vistas of snow-capped peaks are truly unforgettable, and the visit to Lake Louise offers that iconic, postcard-perfect scene. Another highlight is the chance to relax at Banff Upper Hot Springs, a soothing experience after a busy day of sightseeing. The well-organized itinerary also features a generous lunch break at Lake Louise Village, giving you a chance to refuel and soak in the vibrant mountain town atmosphere.

One thing to consider: the tour’s duration means you’ll spend a good chunk of the day in transit, which might be tiring if you’re not used to long excursions. Also, meals are not included, so you’ll want to budget for lunch, although the stop at Lake Louise Village provides a good opportunity to explore local eateries. This tour suits travelers who love scenic vistas, iconic lakes, and are keen to experience a bit of everything the Banff area offers — from mountain panoramas to relaxing hot springs.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines scenic gondola rides, lakes, waterfalls, and hot springs.
• Value for price: For $75, you get a full day of guided sightseeing, transportation, and entry to key sites.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops at popular landmarks like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake (seasonally), and Banff town.
• Photographic opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture stunning mountain, lake, and waterfall views.
• Family-friendly: Suitable for most travelers except pregnant women, very young children, or those with certain health conditions.
• Convenient pickup: Multiple pickup points make it accessible from Calgary, Canmore, and Banff.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point and Transfers

The tour begins early, with pickup options from centrally located spots in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the drive, which is essential considering the length of the day.

Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake

We loved the way our guide described Lake Minnewanka as “the largest lake in Banff National Park,” with its impressive size and mountain backdrop. As we approached Two Jack Lake, we appreciated the informative commentary about the lakes’ formation and local legends. These lakes are perfect for snapping stunning photos and enjoying some quiet moments amid nature.

Surprise Corner and Bow Falls Viewpoint

Next, we stopped at Surprise Corner, which offers a view of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise with the mountain backdrop. It’s an ideal spot to appreciate the grandeur of the area and grab some memorable photos. Similarly, Bow Falls provides a picturesque cascade that’s just right for those scenic shots and learning a bit of Banff’s history.

More Great Tours Nearby

Banff Lake Louise Ski Gondola

The highlight for many is the gondola ride, which transports you to a vantage point high above the treetops. We found the views from the summit to be breathtaking — mountain ranges stretching endlessly, glaciers in the distance, and the chance to see wildlife if you’re lucky. The insider tips from guides help you identify the best spots for photos and where to enjoy the most panoramic vistas.

Lunch at Lake Louise Village

The 45-minute stop at Lake Louise Village is well-placed for a quick lunch. Several options are available, from cafes to casual eateries, giving you a taste of local cuisine or just a quick bite before continuing. Many reviews praise the beautiful setting of the village, which complements the iconic lake views.

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Later in the day, a visit to Banff Upper Hot Springs offers not just relaxation but a chance to learn about the springs’ history and their health benefits. The warm waters, surrounded by snowy peaks, make for a truly soothing experience after a day of walking and sightseeing.

Downtown Banff and the Banff Sign

The tour wraps up with a stroll through Banff town, where you can browse shops, grab a coffee, or enjoy the relaxed mountain village vibe. The Banff sign makes for a fun photo opportunity and a perfect way to cap off your day.

The Practicalities: What to Expect

This tour covers quite a bit in one day, which makes it a great value for travelers who want a thorough overview without the hassle of planning multiple separate trips. The roundtrip transportation ensures you don’t have to worry about driving, and the local guides add a layer of insight and friendliness that makes the experience more meaningful.

The total duration, including travel, is about 8 to 10 hours, so be prepared for a long day. The pickup points are well-chosen, making it easy to join the tour if you’re based in Calgary, Canmore, or Banff itself. The seasonally adjusted itinerary — with Moraine Lake available from June 1 to October 14, and alternatives like Emerald Lake outside that window — ensures you see the best possible sights depending on the time of year.

What’s Included and What Not

The admission to Moraine Lake is included during the peak season, which is a real bonus, especially considering the popularity of that site. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation and a local guide, but meals are not provided, so plan accordingly. Be sure to bring sunglasses, sun hat, jacket, and rain gear, as mountain weather can change unexpectedly.

Accessibility and Suitability

This tour might not be suitable for pregnant women, individuals with certain health issues like diabetes, or those over 95. Also, baby strollers and alcohol or drugs are not permitted on the bus for safety reasons.

Authentic Insights from Travelers

Many reviewers express their appreciation for the stunning views and how well the tour was paced. One mentioned, “The gondola ride was a highlight — the panoramic scenery is even more breathtaking in person.” Others noted that the hot springs provided a much-needed relaxing break after a busy morning. Some pointed out the value for the price, especially considering the transportation and guided commentary included.

A few reviews highlight the seasonal variability: “In October, Moraine Lake was closed, but the alternative to Emerald Lake didn’t disappoint,” showing how adaptable and thoughtful the tour organizers are.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive day in Banff without the hassle of self-driving. It’s ideal if you’re interested in spectacular mountain views, iconic lakes, and relaxing activities like hot springs. Travelers who appreciate guided insights and a well-organized schedule will find this tour especially valuable.

If you’re short on time but want to cover a lot of ground and capture beautiful photos, this tour offers good value. It’s also suitable for families (except very young children or those with health restrictions), as long as the group can handle a full day of sightseeing.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour provides roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup points in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but a 45-minute lunch stop at Lake Louise Village allows you to buy food or explore local cafes.

Can I visit Moraine Lake?
Yes, during the season from June 1 to October 14, admission to Moraine Lake is included. Outside those dates, the tour visits Emerald Lake instead.

How long is the gondola ride?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, the ride to the summit offers stunning panoramic views and is a key highlight of the day.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people over 95, or those with certain health issues. Baby strollers and alcohol are not permitted.

What should I bring?
Pack sunglasses, a sun hat, a jacket, and rain gear, as mountain weather can change quickly.

Is this tour family-friendly?
Yes, generally, but check individual needs, especially for very young children or those with health restrictions.

In the end, this Banff Lake Louise Ski Gondola and Three Lake Day Tour offers a balanced mix of spectacular scenery, relaxing moments, and practical convenience. It’s a fantastic way to see some of the most iconic spots in Banff without the stress of planning or driving, making it a smart choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, memorable day in the mountains.

You can check availability for your dates here: