Lake Louise, Moraine & Emerald Lake Day Trip from Banff

Summary

Turquoise lakes, forest air, laughter echoing off the peaks

You’ll ride through forests and glaciers with a local guide, watch mist lift off turquoise lakes, and taste mountain air at Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake. Expect honest stories, flexible stops, pickup included—and moments that linger long after you’re back in town.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the color to be so unreal — Lake Louise looked like someone had dropped a bucket of turquoise paint into the mountains. We’d just rolled out of Banff in the morning mist (pickup was right on time, by the way), and our guide, Sam, kept tossing out little facts about glaciers and grizzlies as we curved along the highway. The van windows fogged up when we hit Moraine Lake — I wiped a circle with my sleeve and just stared. There’s something about that valley of peaks that makes you feel small in a good way. Sam handed me crampons for the icy path (I’d never worn them before — felt like robot feet) and pointed out where the best photos are if you want to avoid crowds. I tried to say “Ten Peaks” in French; he grinned but didn’t correct me.

Lunch was at Lake Louise Village — nothing fancy, but I swear even a sandwich tastes better with mountain air. At Emerald Lake, I caught a whiff of pine needles warming up in the sun while ducks made these weird little ripples near the wooden bridge. The water really is emerald; it’s not just a name. There were families skipping stones and some older folks chatting quietly on benches — everyone seemed to slow down here. When we stopped at Natural Bridge in Yoho, you could hear the Kicking Horse River thundering under your feet. Felt like standing over a heartbeat or something. We finished with Bow Falls (or Banff Avenue if you wanted shops instead), but honestly my head was still full of lake colors.

The whole day trip from Banff to Lake Louise and beyond was about eight hours but it didn’t drag; maybe because Sam kept things moving without rushing us. He knew when to let us wander off alone for five minutes or tell a story about local bears (I’m still not sure if he was joking about that one). Weather shifted from chilly wind at Moraine to soft sun at Emerald Lake — bring layers, trust me. I keep thinking about that first glimpse of blue water through foggy glass… kind of sticks with you.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Canadian Rockies full-day tour

• Start from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff
• Travel to Banff National Park
• Visit Moraine Lake or Marble Canyon
• Explore Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier
• Lunch stop at Lake Louise Village or Ski Resort
• Visit Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park
• See Natural Bridge in Yoho National Park
• Visit Banff Avenue shops or Bow Falls
• End tour and choose drop-off location

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Banff to Lake Louise?

The full tour lasts around 8 hours including travel time between stops.

Is pickup included for this Canadian Rockies tour?

Yes, pickup is available from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff.

Which lakes are visited on this day trip?

The tour visits Lake Louise, Moraine Lake (seasonal), and Emerald Lake.

What happens if Moraine Lake is closed?

If Moraine Lake is closed (Oct 15 - May 31), Marble Canyon is visited instead.

Is lunch provided on this tour?

No, lunch is not included but there’s a stop at Lake Louise Village or Ski Resort where you can buy food.

Are crampons provided in winter?

Crampons are provided in winter for icy paths; use them at your own responsibility.

Can I choose my drop-off location after the tour?

Yes, you can choose drop-off in Banff, Canmore or Calgary after finishing the tour.

Are infants or strollers allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during the tour.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Calgary, Canmore or Banff in an air-conditioned van with a knowledgeable local guide who also drives. Entry fees for all main attractions are covered—including seasonal access to Moraine Lake or Marble Canyon—and crampons are available for winter walks. You’ll have time for lunch at your own cost before returning to your chosen drop-off point in Banff, Canmore or Calgary.