Lake Louise & Lake Moraine Tour

If you’re dreaming of the Canadian Rockies, chances are Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are on your list—and for good reason. These two iconic lakes in Banff National Park offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in North America. This tour, offered by Jumper Tours, promises a full, well-organized day of sightseeing, and reviews suggest it delivers on that promise. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, the experience can be a smooth, memorable way to enjoy these natural marvels without the hassle of planning transportation or navigation.

Two aspects we particularly like? First, the expert guides who not only show you the sights but also share interesting tidbits about the area. Second, the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle makes the roughly 1-hour drive from Banff feel relaxed and even enjoyable. A potential downside? The tour’s group size is limited to 13 people, which is great for intimacy but might not suit those craving a more private experience. This tour best fits travelers who want a balanced mix of guided commentary, scenic stops, and free time at each lake—perfect for photography-loving adventurers or those new to the Rockies.

Key Points

• Expert guides enhance the experience with commentary and helpful tips.
• Comfortable small-group setting ensures a relaxed, intimate tour.
• Visiting both lakes offers a comprehensive taste of Banff’s natural beauty.
• Includes parking, entrance fees, and transportation, providing good value.
• Timing and pacing allow ample time for photography and gentle walks.
• Additional scenic pass-by at Morant’s Curve adds a special touch.

Start at Lake Louise: A Glimpse of Glacial Majesty

The tour kicks off with a visit to Lake Louise, a place that’s instantly recognizable for its vibrant turquoise waters. This color, caused by rock flour carried into the lake by melting glaciers, makes for a stunning visual. We loved the way the lake’s surface beautifully reflects the Victoria Glacier and surrounding peaks, creating a picture-perfect scene.

Expect about 1 hour and 15 minutes at Lake Louise. The time is ample for a leisurely walk along the shoreline or even renting a canoe if you’re feeling adventurous. Many reviewers, like Brenda B, mention how much they appreciated the ample time to walk, hike, and take pictures. Some, as Jason K notes, enjoyed guided visits to specific points, like the lakeshore and the scenic outlooks suggested during the trip.

The facilities at Lake Louise include sinks and flush toilets, which is a plus for those mindful of convenience. However, keep in mind that the tour also covers parking fees and entrance fees—all included in the price, so no surprises there.

Moraine Lake: The Iconic Photo Spot

Next, the tour moves on to Moraine Lake, famous for its vivid turquoise waters and the dramatic backdrop of the Ten Peaks. This location is a must-see, and the rocky terrain and rugged wilderness give it a more wild feel compared to Lake Louise’s slightly more developed setting.

Here, you’ll spend about 1 hour and 15 minutes, enough time to soak in the views, take photos, or hike the Rockpile Trail for the most famous view of Moraine Lake. Several reviews highlight how this spot can be demanding—like Janet M’s mention of the uphill hike—but note that the view is well worth the effort. Note that Moraine Lake has only pit latrines, so plan your bathroom breaks accordingly.

Many travelers appreciated the guidance and tips from guides, who often suggested the best spots for photos and scenic vistas. The included admission fee makes access straightforward, and the landscape here lends itself to more than just photo opportunities—it’s a wilderness experience.

Scenic Drives and Wildlife Encounters

On the return trip to Banff, the bus passes by Morant’s Curve, a renowned viewpoint where you can often see trains winding through the mountains—an ideal spot for a quick photo and a reminder of the area’s rugged charm. While the focus is on the lakes, many reviews mention spotting wildlife such as elk, deer, and birds along the way, adding a bit of excitement to the scenic drive.

How the Experience Comes Together

The entire tour lasts roughly 5 hours, which balances sightseeing with enough downtime to enjoy each location. The air-conditioned vehicle and parking coverage make the logistics easy, especially for those unfamiliar with the area. The group is capped at 13 travelers, creating a cozy atmosphere where guides can give personalized attention and storytelling. Many travelers, including Stephanie K and Brenda B, found their guides to be friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, which enhances the overall experience.

The timing is planned so that you get plenty of time at each lake, with some reviews appreciating the relaxed pace that allows photographers and explorers to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Guides also provide helpful tips for other scenic spots in the Rockies, which can be valuable for those planning to spend more time in the area.

At $85.25 per person, this tour offers significant value—especially considering all transportation, parking, and entrance fees are included. The small-group format means fewer crowds, more personalized guidance, and a more relaxed day. Many reviews highlight how the trip is “well worth it,” particularly for visitors who want to avoid the hassle of parking and navigating busy spots alone.

However, it’s important to recognize that this is a guided group experience. If you’re someone who prefers complete independence or detailed historical narratives, you might find the storytelling limited. But for most travelers, the combination of scenic stops, expert commentary, and comfort makes this a very sound choice.

The glowing reviews reinforce the tour’s strengths. Brenda B calls it “incredible” and praises Ozzy, the guide, for being “polite, informative, and friendly.” Jason K appreciated the guidance to scenic outlooks and the smooth ride in a larger van with lots of windows. Many others mention how ample time at each lake allows for quality photography and leisurely exploration.

A few reviews point out areas for improvement—namely, bathroom accessibility at Moraine Lake and the group size. For example, Debra K notes the limited bathroom facilities and suggests planning accordingly. Others mention that the tour is not suitable for those with mobility challenges due to the terrain and walking involved.

This experience suits first-time visitors eager to see Banff’s highlights without the stress of planning logistics. It’s also ideal for photographers and nature lovers who want high-quality views, time to shoot, and insightful guides. If you prefer a small, intimate group and value comfortable transportation, this tour hits the mark.

It’s less suitable if you’re looking for a full historical or wildlife-focused experience—though you might still see some animals—and if bathroom facilities are a concern, especially at Moraine Lake. Also, those with mobility issues should be aware of terrain and walking distances.

This Lake Louise & Moraine Lake tour offers a well-rounded, satisfying way to experience some of the most photogenic spots in Banff National Park. The knowledgeable guides make the trip informative without overwhelming, and the comfortable transportation helps you relax as you take in jaw-dropping scenery. The inclusion of parking, entrance fees, and scenic drives makes it a good value for the money, especially for travelers who want a hassle-free way to enjoy these iconic lakes.

While not tailored for those seeking total privacy or detailed historical narratives, it’s perfect for photographers, nature lovers, and first-timers who want to see the highlights with ease. The small group size fosters a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, and the timing allows each visitor to feel immersed in the moment.

If you’re after a straightforward, scenic, and well-managed trip to two of Banff’s most famous lakes, this tour is a solid choice. It’s a great way to make sure your visit to the Rockies is memorable—without the stress of driving or parking.

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour provides an air-conditioned vehicle for the entire trip, including parking fees and scenic drives.

How much time do I get at each lake?
You’ll have about 1 hour and 15 minutes at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, enough for walks, photos, and some exploration.

Are there restroom facilities at the lakes?
Yes, Lake Louise has sinks and flush toilets, while Moraine Lake has pit latrines. Restroom breaks are mentioned during the tour, but plan accordingly.

What is the group size?
The tour caps at 13 travelers, which encourages a more personal and relaxed experience.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for those with mobility challenges due to terrain and walking involved.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transportation, parking, and entrance fees. Gratuities and personal expenses are not included.

Would this tour be good for photography?
Absolutely. The stops at both lakes provide ample time for capturing stunning photos, and guides often suggest the best viewpoints.

Can I rent a canoe at Lake Louise?
While the tour offers time to explore the shoreline and take pictures, canoe rentals are not included or arranged through the tour.