Exploring the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park is an experience like no other. This guided day trip from Banff takes visitors on a comprehensive journey to discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, as well as the tranquil Consolation Lakes. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, travelers can enjoy the serene surroundings and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the serene mountain vistas. While the small group size ensures a personalized experience, it’s important to note that this trip may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility challenges. But for those seeking to uncover the natural wonders of this iconic Canadian destination, this guided hike offers an efficient and enjoyable way to do just that.
This experience made our list of the 16 Best Guided Tours In Banff.
Key Points
- This guided day trip from Banff explores the stunning landscapes of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, with a guided hiking experience and picnic lunch at the Consolation Lakes.
- The small group size of up to 12 participants allows for a personalized and intimate experience, with hotel pickups and van transportation included.
- The trip is not suitable for children under 8 years old, individuals with mobility impairments, or families with young children due to the 7-hour duration and small group size.
- Participants will meet at the Mount Royal Parking Lot in Banff, where the van will depart for the first stop at Moraine Lake.
- The roundtrip van transportation and bagged lunch with sandwiches, fruit, snacks, and water are included in the guided day trip experience.
Activity Details
This guided day trip from Banff takes visitors to explore the stunning landscapes of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Consolation Lakes over the course of 7 hours.
The small group size is limited to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. You’ll start with hotel pickups before heading out in a van to reach the iconic destinations.
At each stop, you’ll have the chance to wander the shores, soak in the breathtaking mountain views, and enjoy a picnic lunch by the Consolation Lakes.
Roundtrip transportation and an experienced interpretive guide are provided throughout the day. However, this tour isn’t recommended for children under 8 or those with mobility issues.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Banff.
Guided Day Trip Highlights
From Banff: Louise & Moraine Lake Guided Hiking Day Trip
Guided Day Trip Highlights
Visitors will explore the stunning landscapes of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Consolation Lakes on this guided day trip from Banff.
They’ll have the chance to wander the shores, soak in the breathtaking mountain views, and enjoy a picnic lunch by the Consolation Lakes.
The small group size ensures an intimate and personalized experience as the professional interpretive guide shares their knowledge of the Canadian Rockies.
Roundtrip transportation from Banff is included, making it easy to focus on taking in the natural beauty without worrying about driving.
With ample time to take photos and enjoy the alpine scenery, this guided day trip is an ideal way to experience the highlights of this iconic region.
What’s Included
The guided day trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional interpretive guide/driver, shuttle transportation to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, a bagged lunch with bottled water, and gratuities. The trip’s inclusions are summarized in the table below:
Inclusion | Description |
---|---|
Transportation | Roundtrip van shuttle from Banff |
Guide | Knowledgeable and experienced guide/driver |
Lunch | Bagged lunch with bottled water |
Extras | Hotel pickup and drop-off, gratuities |
This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience, allowing you to focus on exploring the stunning Canadian Rockies without worrying about the logistics.
Not Suitable for
Despite the stunning natural beauty and guided expertise, this day trip may not be suitable for children under 8 years old or individuals with mobility impairments. The hiking trails and uneven terrain around the lakes can be challenging for younger children and those with physical limitations.
Plus, the 7-hour duration of the tour may be too long for some participants, especially those with special needs. The small group size, while allowing for a more personalized experience, may also pose challenges for families with young children.
To ensure the comfort and safety of all guests, the tour organizers have set these age and mobility restrictions in place.
Key reasons this tour may not be suitable for all:
- Challenging hiking trails and uneven terrain
- 7-hour duration of the tour
- Small group size limits accommodation for families
Meeting Point
Participants for the Guided Hiking Day Trip in Banff will meet at the Mount Royal Parking Lot, conveniently located within the town of Banff. This central meeting point ensures everyone is ready to depart on time for the day’s adventures.
Guests should come prepared with the recommended items, like sunglasses, sun hats, hiking shoes, water, and rain gear, to ensure they’re comfortable throughout the 7-hour journey.
The small group size, limited to 12 participants, allows the guide to provide personalized attention and insights as the group explores the stunning Canadian Rockies.
From the meeting point, the group will board the van for the scenic drive to the first stop at Moraine Lake.
Recommended Items
Hikers will want to pack several essential items for the Guided Hiking Day Trip in Banff, including:
- Sunglasses and a sun hat to shield against the bright mountain sun
- Sturdy hiking shoes, as the trails may be uneven or rocky
- A reusable water bottle
- Extra layers like a long-sleeved shirt and long pants to stay comfortable
Other recommended items include:
- Rain gear in case of unexpected showers
- Bug spray to ward off insects
- A camera to capture the stunning scenery
Packing well for the excursion will help hikers stay prepared and focused on enjoying the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Van Transportation
The tour includes roundtrip van transportation from Banff to the trailheads at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, providing hikers with a comfortable and convenient way to access the stunning natural landscapes.
The vans are spacious and well-equipped to accommodate the small group size, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable journey.
The experienced driver will handle the winding mountain roads, allowing participants to sit back, relax, and take in the breathtaking scenery along the way.
This convenient transportation service eliminates the need for participants to worry about driving and parking, allowing them to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies during the guided hike.
Picnic Lunch
After the scenic van ride, the guided group will stop at the Consolation Lakes for a well-deserved picnic lunch. The provided bagged lunch includes a selection of sandwiches, fresh fruit, snacks, and bottled water, allowing hikers to refuel and recharge in the stunning mountain setting.
This picnic break offers several advantages:
- Replenishing energy levels to fuel the remainder of the hike
- Taking in the breathtaking views of the lakes and surrounding peaks
- Providing a relaxing respite from the trail in a serene natural environment
Enjoying a delicious and nourishing lunch outdoors is an integral part of this guided day trip, ensuring participants are well-prepared to continue exploring the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Fit Do I Need to Be for This Hike?
The hike requires a moderate level of fitness. Participants should be able to walk up to 7 hours, covering a total distance of around 10-12 km, with some elevation gain. Proper hiking shoes and gear are recommended.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?
While participants are provided with a bagged lunch, they’re welcome to bring their own additional food and snacks. Doing so can ensure they have the sustenance they need to fully enjoy the day’s activities.
Is There an Option for a Vegetarian/Vegan Lunch?
Yes, the guided day trip offers a vegetarian/vegan lunch option. Participants can request a special dietary meal when booking the tour, ensuring their dietary needs are accommodated during the picnic lunch by the Consolation Lakes.
Do I Need to Bring My Own Hiking Poles?
Hiking poles are not required, but they can be useful for the trails around Moraine and Consolation Lakes. The tour provides transportation, a guide, and a bagged lunch, so participants only need to bring appropriate clothing and footwear.
Will There Be Any Free Time to Explore on Our Own?
There will be free time for self-exploration during the guided day trip. The itinerary includes visits to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Consolation Lakes, with a picnic lunch by the Consolation Lakes where guests can wander on their own.
Recap
This guided day trip from Banff offers a comprehensive exploration of the stunning landscapes of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Consolation Lakes.
Participants can enjoy hiking with a knowledgeable guide, experiencing the serenity of a picnic lunch, and discovering the natural beauty of the Banff region.
The small group size ensures a personalized experience, making this an efficient and enjoyable way to explore the area.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Banff
More Guided Tours in Banff
- Banff Cave & Hot Springs Self-Guided Walking Tour (Not a Ticket)
- Listen to a Tour Guide as You Drive & Walk With Our Discover the Rockies Package
- 4-7 Hours Private Guided Tour in Lake Moraine and Lake Louise
- Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Daily Guided Hike – Easy
- Sunshine Meadows Vistas – Guided Hike (Easy)
- 2-Hour Guided Banff Townsite E-Bike Explorer
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