Banff National Park is a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rugged mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. Unlike many parks, Banff offers a wealth of guided tours that cater to all interests—whether you’re eager to walk on glaciers, explore backcountry trails, or enjoy luxurious multi-day experiences. These tours provide not only expert insights but also safe ways to experience some of the wildest parts of the Rockies. We’re particularly fond of the Columbia Icefield: Guided Glacier Hike for its combination of adventure and education, and the Moraine Lake Adventure for its intimate access and insider tips. Both showcase what makes Banff special—spectacular scenery and expert guidance that makes wilderness accessible and memorable.
If you’re trying to decide between a quick half-day outing or a more immersive multi-day trip, this list covers a range of options. Whether you want to get your adrenaline pumping on a glacier, enjoy a peaceful snowshoe trek, or explore iconic sights like Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon, you’ll find something that suits your schedule and interests. So, let’s dive into the details of each tour and help you pick the best fit for your Banff adventure.
1. Columbia Icefield: Guided Glacier Hike
This guided glacier hike takes you onto the Athabasca Glacier, one of the most accessible and impressive parts of the Columbia Icefield. For about $96 per person, you’ll spend around three hours walking on ice while your ACMG-certified guide points out features like deep crevasses and meltwater cascading over the ice. Safety equipment, including crampons and ice axes, is provided, so you don’t need any prior experience—just a decent pair of walking shoes and a sense of adventure.
The highlight is walking onto the glacier itself, where you can witness the scale of this icy landscape firsthand. Your guide offers interpretive commentary about the glacier’s formation, climate change, and the unique environment of the Rockies. The views of surrounding peaks are stunning, with the icefield stretching out before you and the Rockies’ highest summits in the distance. This tour caters well to those wanting a hands-on glacier experience, and the limited group size ensures a personal touch.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure lovers and weather-tolerant travelers eager to learn about glaciers on foot.
2. Bestseller From Canmore/Banff: Moraine Lake Adventure
At number 2, the Moraine Lake Adventure offers a day of exploring one of Banff’s most iconic sights, with the added benefit of personalized service—smaller groups mean more room to breathe and ask questions. Starting from Canmore, Banff, or Lake Louise, this tour is a full-day affair, lasting between 7 and 11 hours, and costs around $55 per person.
You’ll arrive early at Moraine Lake to beat the crowds, then enjoy insider tips from your guide on the best trails and viewpoints. The experience includes scenic drives and walking excursions into the surrounding valleys, with plenty of stops for photos and stories. It’s ideal for those wanting comprehensive exploration and local insights without feeling rushed. The tour is particularly suited for travelers who prefer a more personal experience and want to maximize their time at Moraine Lake and nearby spots.
Bottom line: A great choice for those seeking a full day of sightseeing with expert guidance and small-group intimacy.
3. Banff National Park: Sunshine Meadows Snowshoeing Experience
For a winter escape, the Sunshine Meadows Snowshoeing Experience offers four hours of guided snowshoe trekking for about $101 per person. This tour takes you high into the backcountry at Sunshine Village Ski Resort, where deep powder snow and panoramic views provide a true winter wonderland. Gondola and chairlift rides are included, making the ascent comfortable and accessible even for beginners.
Once at the top, your guide leads you along groomed trails through wildflower meadows and forested slopes, with plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife spotting. The deep snow and crisp mountain air make this a refreshing outdoor experience, and warming up with hot chocolate afterward is a nice touch. This tour is perfect for active travelers looking to enjoy winter’s quiet beauty without the need for technical skills. It’s suitable for most fitness levels, though some walking in snow is involved.
Bottom line: Ideal for winter sports enthusiasts wanting a guided adventure in Banff’s snowy backcountry.
4. Skoki Lake Louise Daily Guided Hike in the Canadian Rockies
If you’re after a full-day hike, the Skoki Lake Louise Guided Hike is a top pick. For around $114, you’ll spend eight hours exploring the backcountry of Banff and Lake Louise, with an exclusive shuttle providing access deep into the wilderness. This allows you to avoid crowds and enjoy the most scenic parts of the Rockies.
Your expert guide will lead you through breathtaking landscapes, with views of towering peaks and pristine lakes. The route takes you away from busy tourist spots, revealing hidden valleys and untouched wilderness. The experience is suitable for those with a good level of fitness, as it involves a full day of moderate hiking. Guests mention the “jaw-dropping views in all directions” and appreciate the personalized attention. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see the rugged side of Banff and appreciate quiet, scenic trails.
Bottom line: Best suited for experienced hikers seeking a comprehensive, crowd-free backcountry experience.
5. 50% OFF Columbia Icefield
A longer, more immersive option is the Columbia Icefield tour, offering a full 12-hour day for about $273. This tour takes you through the heart of the Rockies to visit Emerald Lake, Peyto Lake, and Bow Lake, with plenty of stops for breathtaking photos. You’ll get to walk along the glacier’s edge, feel the glacier-chilled air, and see iconic sights like the turquoise waters of Peyto Lake from a lookout.
The journey includes walks along glaciers, visits to dramatic canyons, and scenic lakes, making it a comprehensive day of sightseeing. The tour’s length and multiple stops mean you’ll see a wide array of landscapes in a single trip—ideal for those who want a full mountain experience. The tour is quite full but offers excellent value for travelers eager to pack in a lot in one day.
Bottom line: A well-rounded, full-day adventure perfect for those who want to maximize their time and see multiple highlights.
$273 per person
6. Banff: Uncover the Beauty of Western Canada (6-Days)
For travelers with more time, the 6-day tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the Rockies and beyond. Starting in Banff and ending in Whistler, this trip covers Jasper, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Glacier National Park. You’ll learn about Indigenous cultures, enjoy wildlife spotting, and experience vibrant mountain towns.
Highlights include evenings in Banff’s lively village, exploring the stunning Icefields Parkway, and discovering the Olympic legacy in Whistler. The tour balances guided adventures with free time to explore at your own pace. This is excellent for those wanting a deep dive into Western Canada’s natural beauty and cultural richness, with options for adventure and relaxation.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking an in-depth, multi-park experience with a mix of guided tours and free time.
$1,527 per person
7. Banff/Canmore: Lake Louise & Johnston Canyon
Last but not least, this half-day tour combines two of Banff’s most loved sights for $86 per person. It’s ideal for visitors with limited time but wanting a taste of both serene lakes and dramatic waterfalls. You’ll start with the peaceful beauty of Lake Louise, then hike along Johnston Canyon, famous for its frozen waterfalls in winter or rushing water in summer.
This tour is suitable for most fitness levels and offers a quick, efficient way to see two top attractions. Guests often comment on the stunning scenery and the ease of combining both locations into one day. It’s a practical choice if your schedule is tight or if you prefer a more relaxed pace with plenty of photo stops.
Bottom line: Great for travelers with limited time who want a well-rounded experience of Banff’s highlights.
$86 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding which tour to book, consider your budget, time available, and interests. For a quick but memorable glacier experience, the Columbia Icefield: Guided Glacier Hike offers close-up views and hands-on exploration. If you prefer a relaxed day with insider tips, the Moraine Lake Adventure is ideal. For winter travelers, the snowshoe tour at Sunshine Village combines physical activity with scenic tranquility.
Longer trips, like the 6-day Western Canada tour, suit those wanting a deep dive into the Rockies’ diverse parks, while the full-day Columbia Icefield tour lets you pack a lot into one day. If you’re pressed for time but still want the essentials, the Lake Louise & Johnston Canyon option hits two of the most photogenic spots.
Booking early is always smart, especially during peak summer months or holiday seasons, so plan ahead to secure your preferred date.
Final Thoughts
Banff offers a wide range of tours, from quick scenic excursions to immersive backcountry hikes and multi-day adventures. For those new to the area, the guided glacier hike provides an unforgettable introduction to the icefields. Nature lovers with more time might prefer the 6-day tour, exploring multiple parks and cultures. Winter visitors will appreciate snowshoeing at Sunshine Meadows, and families or busy travelers can still experience Banff’s highlights with shorter excursions like the Lake Louise & Johnston Canyon tour.
No matter what your interests or schedule, Banff has a tour that will enrich your visit and help you see these mountains in a new light. Book early, choose according to what excites you most, and get ready for an adventure in Canada’s premier national park.