Exploring the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies has never been more accessible. The Private Icefields Parkway Tour offers a chance to take in the region’s breathtaking natural beauty. From the serene turquoise waters of Lake Louise to the dramatic vistas of Moraine Lake, this guided excursion promises an unforgettable experience. Along the iconic Icefields Parkway, travelers will witness a stunning panorama of glaciers, alpine meadows, and towering peaks. With ample time for sightseeing and a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides an opportunity to uncover the hidden gems that make the Canadian Rockies a must-visit destination. But the true allure of this experience lies in the chance to…
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Private Tours In Calgary.
Key Points
- Explore the stunning Canadian Rockies along the Icefields Parkway, making photo stops at iconic destinations like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
- Spend 1 hour at each of the iconic Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, admiring their turquoise and emerald-hued waters, respectively.
- Enjoy over 2 hours of sightseeing along the Icefields Parkway, with multiple stops to capture the breathtaking views of peaks and valleys.
- Visit the Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint to admire the majestic Rockies and learn about the region’s geology and wildlife from a knowledgeable guide.
- Convenient pickup and drop-off services from various locations to enhance the overall tour experience.
Tour Overview
This private guided tour along the Icefields Parkway route from Calgary allows visitors to explore the stunning Canadian Rockies, taking in dramatic views, glaciers, and the iconic lakes of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
The itinerary includes stops at these must-see destinations, with ample time for photo ops and sightseeing. Along the Icefields Parkway, the tour makes additional stops at Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint.
Pickup and drop-off services are provided from Calgary, Kananaskis, Banff, or Canmore, making it a convenient option. While food and attraction tickets aren’t included, the tour does cover the cost of transportation and a knowledgeable driver/guide to enhance the experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Calgary.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour’s itinerary features several must-see destinations within the Canadian Rockies, providing ample opportunities for photo stops, visits, and sightseeing.
At Lake Louise, you’ll have an hour to capture its iconic turquoise waters and surrounding mountains. Moraine Lake offers another stunning alpine lake with breathtaking scenery, giving you an additional hour to explore.
The Icefields Parkway takes center stage, with 2.25 hours dedicated to photo stops, visits, and sightseeing along this scenic highway.
Peyto Lake and Bow Lake each provide 30 minutes of exploration time, while the Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint offers a quick 15-minute photo stop.
Throughout the journey, you’ll witness dramatic views, glaciers, and pristine lakes that exemplify the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Lake Louise Exploration
Visitors spend an hour at Lake Louise, marveling at its iconic turquoise waters and the majestic Rocky Mountains that frame the scene.
They’ll have the chance to stroll along the shoreline, snap photos from the best vantage points, and soak in the serene atmosphere.
The lake’s stunning glacial-fed color is one of the region’s most famous natural wonders.
Guests can wander through the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, explore the lakeshore trails, or simply relax and enjoy the breathtaking panorama.
Whether admiring the view from the shore or venturing out onto the water, Lake Louise offers an unforgettable glimpse of the Canadian Rockies’ natural beauty.
Moraine Lake Visit
After exploring the iconic Lake Louise, visitors head to the stunning Moraine Lake, where they spend an hour admiring the emerald-hued waters and the dramatic surrounding peaks. The glacier-fed lake is renowned for its vibrant color and breathtaking scenery, making it a must-visit destination on the Icefields Parkway. Visitors can stroll along the shoreline, snap photos of the famous "Rockpile" viewpoint, and soak in the serene alpine ambiance.
Moraine Lake Facts | |
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Elevation | 6,183 feet |
Glacial Lake | Yes |
Color | Striking emerald green |
Surrounded By | Massive mountain peaks |
Best Time to Visit | June to September |
Icefields Parkway Sightseeing
Leaving the stunning Moraine Lake behind, the tour then winds its way along the iconic Icefields Parkway, a scenic mountain highway renowned for its dramatic vistas, glaciers, and alpine lakes.
Along the way, the group makes several photo stops to capture breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
The tour explores the Icefields Parkway for over 2 hours, stopping at key viewpoints like the Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint. Guests can admire the majesty of the Canadian Rockies and learn about the region’s geology and wildlife from the knowledgeable guide.
This section of the tour offers a chance to truly take in the natural beauty of the Icefields Parkway.
Peyto Lake Viewpoint
From the Icefields Parkway, the tour makes its way to the renowned Peyto Lake Viewpoint, where guests can admire the stunningly turquoise glacial waters and the surrounding alpine scenery. This 30-minute stop offers incredible photo opportunities of the picturesque lake and its dramatic mountain backdrop.
Peyto Lake Viewpoint | |||
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Location | Elevation | Best Time to Visit | What to Expect |
Along the Icefields Parkway, approximately 40km north of Lake Louise | 1,860 meters (6,100 feet) | Summer months for clear skies and vibrant colors | Breathtaking panoramic views, short hike to the viewpoint, photo-worthy moments |
The tour continues on, leaving this stunning natural wonder behind as the journey progresses along the famous Icefields Parkway.
Bow Lake Scenery
The tour then makes its way to Bow Lake, where visitors are treated to a breathtaking panorama of the serene turquoise waters set against the majestic backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. Surrounded by towering peaks and glaciers, Bow Lake offers a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Some of the highlights of this stop include:
- Capturing the perfect reflection of the Wapta Icefield in the still, mirror-like surface of the lake.
- Admiring the vibrant colors of the water, ranging from deep azure to mesmerizing turquoise.
- Spotting wildlife such as bighorn sheep or grizzly bears along the shoreline.
- Immersing oneself in the serene and tranquil atmosphere, taking in the natural beauty of this iconic Canadian landscape.
Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint
After the serene stop at Bow Lake, the tour then makes a brief photo stop at the Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint.
This iconic vista offers visitors an impressive panorama of the Crowfoot Glacier, a stunning natural wonder nestled amidst the rugged peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
The glacier’s distinctive three-pronged shape is a sight to behold, with its icy blue hues contrasting beautifully against the surrounding mountains.
Guests have around 15 minutes to capture the breathtaking scenery and admire the power of this ancient ice formation.
Though a quick stop, the Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint provides an unforgettable glimpse into the majesty of the Canadian Rockies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour doesn’t include meals, so bringing your own snacks and beverages is recommended to have during the stops along the scenic route.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour duration can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers can speak to the tour operator about customizing the itinerary and length of the tour to meet their preferences.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Additional Locations?
Yes, you can customize the itinerary to visit additional locations. The tour operator may accommodate requests to extend the tour duration and include extra stops along the Icefields Parkway, subject to availability and additional fees.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
Yes, the tour operator may offer discounts for children and seniors. Discounts are typically 10-20% off the regular adult price, but specific rates can vary. Customers should inquire about any available discounts when booking the tour.
How Far in Advance Should I Book the Tour to Ensure Availability?
It’s recommended to book the tour at least 2-3 weeks in advance to ensure availability, as spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking early also allows more flexibility in choosing your preferred departure date and time.
Recap
The Private Icefields Parkway Tour provides travelers with an unforgettable experience in the Canadian Rockies.
Visitors will explore iconic destinations, admire the stunning turquoise waters and majestic mountains, and make photo stops at scenic viewpoints along the Icefields Parkway.
With ample time for sightseeing and a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers an immersive and breathtaking journey through the natural beauty of the region.
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