Lakes Moraine, Louise, Emerald, Johnston Canyon & Yoho Tour

This tour promises an extensive look at some of the most celebrated natural wonders of Alberta and British Columbia, all packed into a 7.5 to 11-hour day. While we haven’t personally taken this trip, the feedback from over a thousand travelers paints a pretty clear picture of what you can expect. If you’re eager to see iconic lakes, dramatic waterfalls, and alpine scenery with a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a compelling option.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery with expert commentary — so you’re not just snapping photos, but also learning about the places you visit. Plus, the value seems excellent, considering the full day of sightseeing for just $61. One potential consideration is the timing—since many stops are popular and busy, you’ll want to keep in mind that you might spend a good chunk of time in line or waiting during peak season.

This tour suits travelers who want an organized, relaxed way to explore multiple must-see spots without the hassle of driving themselves. It’s perfect for those with limited time but a passion for nature, photography, or simply soaking in the incredible views of the Rockies and Banff-Yoho areas.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Visits to all major lakes and attractions from Calgary, Banff, or Canmore.
• Expert guides: Known for their knowledge, friendliness, and helpful tips.
• Excellent value: Offers a full day of sightseeing at a reasonable price.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops at Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake, Johnston Canyon, and Natural Bridge.
• Peak season highlights: Moraine Lake and Vermilion Lakes are included from June 1 to October 13, with alternatives in winter.
• Authentic and scenic: Beautiful lakes, waterfalls, and mountain views, with enough time to enjoy each stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour begins with a pickup from designated spots in Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, making it accessible for most travelers in the region. The first part of the journey involves a comfortable vehicle that can carry groups from 6 up to 55 people, meaning it’s generally a good-sized group without feeling overwhelming.

Lake Louise — The Glacier Jewel

The journey kicks off with a drive to Lake Louise, arguably Canada’s most famous mountain lake. Known for its iconic emerald-green waters framed by snow-capped peaks, this stop offers some of the best photo opportunities on the trip. Travelers report that the views here are “pristine” and truly breathtaking, with comments like “It was everything I hoped for and more.”

The tour provides enough time for photos, a quick stroll, or just soaking in the scene. The accessibility might vary, but most find this stop to be well-timed, allowing them to appreciate the serenity of this glacial lake.

Moraine Lake — The Iconic Valley of the Ten Peaks

Next, the bus heads to Moraine Lake, which in many ways is even more famous than Lake Louise. Surrounded by towering mountains and the legendary “Rockpile” viewpoint, this spot is a must-photograph location. The reviews consistently praise guides like Sammy for their helpful advice on capturing the best shots — “Sammy gave us tips on how to get the best photos,” one traveler noted.

However, note that visiting Moraine Lake is seasonal — only from June 1 to October 13. During winter months, the itinerary shifts slightly, substituting Moraine Lake with Banff Town or Bow Falls.

Vermilion Lakes for a Scenic Break

From June to mid-October, Vermilion Lakes offer a quieter, equally scenic alternative for a quick stop, giving you a chance to see more of the mountain reflections and natural beauty with fewer crowds.

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Emerald Lake & Natural Bridge

Crossing into Yoho National Park, the next highlight is Emerald Lake, renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and surrounding mountains. Travelers often describe it as “a dream,” with some noting they could spend hours here.

Adjacent to Emerald Lake is the Natural Bridge, a natural rock formation carved by the Kicking Horse River. It’s a quick but impressive stop, perfect for a short walk and some photos. Many reviews mention appreciating the balance of stops — enough to see and enjoy, but not so long that the day drags.

Johnston Canyon — Waterfalls and Scenic Hikes

The hike through Johnston Canyon is one of the most praised parts of this tour. The trail features a series of waterfalls, caves, and bridges, with some reviews noting that extra time allows for a more thorough exploration. “We loved the way our guide Ben made sure everyone had enough time to enjoy the waterfalls,” one visitor shared.

In winter, crampons are provided, making the hike accessible and safe even in snow and ice, though you hike at your own risk. The walk is suitable for a range of fitness levels, but be prepared for some upward sections and slippery spots.

Transportation & Group Dynamics

The tour uses vehicles sized for 6 to 55 passengers, offering a cozy but comfortable environment. Many reviews highlight the professionalism and friendliness of the guides and drivers, who are praised for their knowledge and personable approach.

Most travelers find the transportation to be punctual and comfortable, with some suggesting that clearer identification of drivers and pickup points could improve the experience. The tour allows for some flexibility, but as with any large group outing, timing can be tight at some stops.

Duration & Timing

The full-day experience typically lasts around 7.5 hours, but can extend to 11 hours depending on traffic and weather. The morning starts early, and the itinerary is designed to maximize your time at each location.

Cost & Value

At $61 per person, this tour offers great value considering the scope of sights covered, guided commentary, and transportation. Many travelers mention how the guides enhance the experience with interesting facts and helpful advice, making the price feel justified.

What The Reviews Say

The overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 from over 1,000 reviews reflects a high level of satisfaction. Commenters consistently praise the knowledgeable guides like Mike, Sammy, and Ben for their friendliness, humor, and insight.

Several travelers highlight that the stops are well timed — giving them enough opportunity to enjoy each location without feeling rushed. Some wish for a bit more time at certain stops like Johnston Canyon or Emerald Lake, but overall, the consensus is that the balance is good.

Notably, many reviews mention the stunning scenery and the quality of the photos taken. A few comments point out that the bus could sometimes be more comfortable or that meeting points could be clearer, but these are minor points in an otherwise excellent experience.

Conclusions: Who Should Take This Tour?

This guided day trip is an excellent choice for travelers who want to see the top lakes and waterfalls of Banff and Yoho without the stress of driving. If you value expert guides who can enrich your understanding of the area, combined with the convenience of transportation, this tour offers a lot for the price.

It’s ideal for first-time visitors eager to tick off the major sights in one day, or for those who prefer a more relaxed experience with plenty of commentary and tips. Nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who appreciates scenic beauty will find this tour rewarding.

If you’re traveling with limited time but want to maximize your experience, this tour provides an engaging, well-organized way to soak in some of Canada’s most spectacular scenery.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for winter visits?
Yes, the tour runs year-round. In winter, crampons are provided for the Johnston Canyon hike, making it accessible even in snow and ice. The itinerary shifts slightly from October 14 to May 31, replacing Moraine Lake with Banff Town or Bow Falls.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts between 7.5 to 11 hours, depending on traffic, weather, and the season. It usually begins in the morning and concludes in the early evening.

What stops are included during peak season?
From June 1 to October 13, you’ll visit Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Vermilion Lakes, Emerald Lake, Natural Bridge, and Johnston Canyon. During the off-season, some stops are replaced with Banff Town or Bow Falls.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses vehicles sized from 6 to 55 passengers. Most travelers find the transportation to be comfortable and punctual, with guides and drivers being friendly and knowledgeable.

What’s the cost and what does it include?
At $61 per person, the cost covers pickup from selected points, transportation, and a local guide. Meals are not included, but there are stops for lunch, typically at Lake Louise Village or the Ski Resort.

Can I expect to have enough time at each site?
Most reviews suggest yes, but some would prefer a bit more time at specific stops like Johnston Canyon or Emerald Lake. The itinerary is designed to balance seeing many sights with not rushing through them.

Are tips expected?
Yes, a suggested tip of around $12 per person in cash is appreciated for the guide and driver.

In the end, this tour offers a practical, well-reviewed way to enjoy some of Canada’s most stunning lakes and waterfalls — perfect for those eager to experience the majesty of the Rockies without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a quick taste, it’s a guided adventure that tends to leave travelers smiling and snapping memorable photos.

You can check availability for your dates here: