Lake Louise, Moraine & Johnston Canyon: Day Trip with Pickup

Summary

Lake Louise’s blue water, Moraine’s peaks, Banff town strolls and canyon hikes

You’ll feel glacier air on your face at Lake Louise, hike beside roaring waterfalls in Johnston Canyon, and end your day among Banff’s cozy shops—with pickup included from Calgary or Canmore. Expect quick stops at famous lakes, stories from your local guide, and small moments that stick with you long after you’re home.

What’s the experience like?

Hands wrapped around a coffee cup, I watched our guide—his name was Mark—juggle stories and directions as we left Calgary behind. The van was quiet at first, everyone half-awake and peering out at the mountains getting bigger by the minute. You could smell pine even through the cracked window. Mark pointed out a ridge where he’d seen elk last week (we didn’t spot any), then laughed about how every lake here has its own “personality.” I didn’t get it until we stepped off at Lake Louise. The color really is unreal—like someone dropped turquoise paint into the world. I tried to take a photo but it never looks right on my phone. There’s a hush around the water that made me want to whisper.

Lunch was quick—just sandwiches from a little shop near Lake Louise Village—and then we were off again. If you’re doing this day trip from Calgary or Canmore, be ready for lots of stops but not much dawdling; there’s a lot packed in. At Moraine Lake (or Emerald Lake if you come in spring), the air felt colder, sharper somehow. Mark told us about the Valley of Ten Peaks and tried to teach us their names—I forgot all but two before we got back in the van. The light bounced off the rocks so bright I had to squint even with sunglasses on. Someone slipped on some wet stones and laughed it off—nobody hurt, just damp socks.

I’d never heard of Johnston Canyon before this tour. The path runs along these metal catwalks bolted into the rock, with water rushing below so loud you have to shout sometimes. My hands got cold gripping the railing but I couldn’t stop watching the spray catch sunlight in little rainbows. A couple from Toronto asked if I’d take their picture by one of the falls; my thumb covered half the lens (classic). By late afternoon my legs were tired but I didn’t really care.

The last bit was wandering Banff Avenue—shops selling fudge and wool hats, people spilling out onto sidewalks with ice cream even though it was chilly enough for gloves. Mark gave us tips on which bakery had the best cinnamon buns (I still think about that sticky sweetness). When it was time to head back to Calgary, nobody talked much; just mountain shadows sliding past outside and that feeling you get after a long day somewhere new.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Banff National Park full-day tour

• Depart from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff
• Travel to Banff National Park
• Pass by iconic Banff mountain
• Visit Lake Louise and Fairmont Chateau
• Lunch at Lake Louise Village or Ski Resort
• Visit Moraine Lake (Jun 1–Oct 13)
• Or visit Emerald Lake and Natural Bridge (Oct 14–May 31)
• Hike Johnston Canyon trail
• Visit Vermilion Lakes (Jun 1–Oct 13)
• Explore Banff Avenue shops and galleries
• Or visit Bow Falls waterfall
• Return to Banff for drop-off

Top questions

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

The drive from Calgary to Lake Louise takes about 1.5 hours each way as part of this full-day tour.

Is lunch included on this Banff day trip?

No, lunch is not included—you’ll have time to buy your own meal at Lake Louise Village or Ski Resort.

What lakes are visited during this tour?

You’ll visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (or Emerald Lake & Natural Bridge if traveling between October 14 and May 31).

Are crampons provided for winter visits?

Yes, crampons are provided in winter for use at your own responsibility during icy conditions.

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

Yes, you can choose to be dropped off in Banff, Canmore, or Calgary after finishing the tour.

Is this tour suitable for families or people with limited fitness?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels; infants and small children can use strollers or prams.

Does this tour include admission fees?

Admission fees for Emerald Lake & Natural Bridge (Oct–May) or Moraine Lake & Vermilion Lakes (June–Oct) are included.

Will we visit Bow Falls or Banff Avenue?

You’ll visit either Bow Falls or have free time on Banff Avenue at the end of your tour—it varies by day.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Calgary, Canmore or Banff in an air-conditioned van with a local guide who drives and shares stories along the way; entry fees for either Moraine Lake & Vermilion Lakes (June–October) or Emerald Lake & Natural Bridge (October–May); use of crampons in winter if needed; plus either Bow Falls or free time exploring Banff Avenue before choosing your drop-off point back in Banff, Canmore or Calgary.