Banff, Lake Louise & Moraine: Canyon Walks & Emerald Lake Day Trip

Summary

Banff to Emerald Lake day trip with waterfalls, lakes and local stops

You’ll hike suspended catwalks at Johnston Canyon, marvel at Emerald Lake’s unreal colors, catch Moraine’s wild blue glow (if open), and relax by Lake Louise—all with easy pickup and a friendly local guide handling the details. Expect moments of silence, laughter over lunch, and views you’ll keep replaying long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

“Is that real?” I blurted out when we pulled up to Emerald Lake—my guide, Sam, just grinned. The water really is that green. It’s not the kind of place you can just walk past; I kept stopping every few steps because the light kept changing and the color would shift. There was a couple from Calgary on our tour who said they come back every year—guess it never gets old. I tried to get a photo on the wooden bridge but ended up just standing there for a while, breathing in that sharp pine smell and listening to the water slap against the rocks.

The morning started at Johnston Canyon. You get this cool rush of cold air as soon as you step onto those metal catwalks—felt like walking inside a fridge with birds chirping somewhere above. Our group moved pretty slowly (which was fine by me), and Sam pointed out these tiny moss patches clinging to wet stone—he called them “nature’s carpets,” which made me laugh. The waterfalls were loud enough to drown out our chatter for a minute or two. I didn’t expect to feel so small watching all that water crash down right in front of us.

Moraine Lake was next (it’s only open in summer—they swap in Marble Canyon if it’s closed). We lucked out with sun, so the blue was almost electric. There’s this moment when you climb up the rockpile and suddenly see all ten peaks lined up behind the lake—I actually forgot to take a picture because I was busy gawking. Lunch was at Lake Louise Village—nothing fancy, just sandwiches and coffee, but honestly I needed it after all that walking. Some folks went down to the water after; I sat on a bench and watched people try to skip stones (nobody did more than three bounces).

We finished back in Banff town, where Sam dropped us off near Banff Avenue—he recommended a bakery for maple tarts (I bought two). The whole day felt like flipping through postcards except you could hear wind in the trees and your shoes got muddy sometimes. Still thinking about that first shock of green at Emerald Lake—you know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore lakes, canyon, and Banff town

• Visit Johnston Canyon waterfalls
• See Natural Bridge in Yoho Park
• Stop at Moraine Lake for views
• Lunch at Lake Louise Village
• Visit Lake Louise shoreline
• Walk along Emerald Lake shore
• Explore Banff Avenue shops and cafés

Top questions

How long is the Banff day trip including Johnston Canyon?

The full day trip includes stops at Johnston Canyon (about 90 minutes), Emerald Lake, Moraine Lake (seasonal), Natural Bridge, lunch at Lake Louise Village, and ends in Banff town.

Is Moraine Lake included year-round?

Moraine Lake is included from June 1 to October 14; outside those dates, Marble Canyon is visited instead.

Does this tour include lunch?

The tour includes a lunch stop at Lake Louise Village where you can purchase food; lunch itself isn’t provided.

Are pickup and drop-off included?

The tour includes pickup from Banff with return drop-off after exploring Banff Avenue.

Can I bring children or infants on this tour?

Specialized infant seats are available; suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Is there time for hiking during the stops?

You’ll have time for short hikes or walks at each stop, especially along Johnston Canyon’s catwalks and around Emerald Lake.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed.

What should I wear for this Banff lakes day trip?

Dress in layers with comfortable shoes; weather can change quickly in the Rockies and trails may be muddy or snowy depending on season.

What’s included

Your day includes air-conditioned transport from Banff with bottled water provided along the way; entry fees for Moraine Lake (when open) are covered too. Lunch isn’t included but there’s a relaxed stop at Lake Louise Village where you can grab something local before heading out again—all guided by someone who knows these roads by heart.