Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Morning Tour: 2-Hour Lakes Visit

A morning across turquoise lakes, with time to move at your own speed

A small-group morning tour of Moraine Lake and Lake Louise in Banff, Alberta, with pickup from Canmore or Banff, a local guide, and two hours to explore each lake by canoe, hiking trail or lakeshore walk. The tour includes coffee, tea and hiking poles; groups stay under 13 guests for a personalized experience. One tree is planted in Canada for every booking through the Blue Green Planet Project.

Step-by-step itinerary

Morning tour of Moraine Lake and Lake Louise

• Pickup from Canmore or Banff
• Travel along Bow Valley Parkway
• Stop at Morant’s Curve for coffee
• Explore Moraine Lake and Rockpile
• Travel to Lake Louise
• Explore Lake Louise and Fairview Lookout
• Return to accommodations with guide tips

The Experience

The day starts with pickup from Banff or Canmore, then moves along the quieter Bow Valley Parkway toward the lakes. Your guide shares stories about the region's wildlife, history and ecology as you travel, with a brief stop at Morant's Curve to stretch and take in the mountain views over coffee or tea. The vehicle stays parked nearby throughout, so your belongings remain accessible and you travel light.

Moraine Lake is your first stop, and you arrive before the crowds build. Two hours is yours to spend however you want: paddle a canoe across the turquoise water, walk the Rockpile for panoramic views and photography spots, or follow the lakeshore trail at a walk. Your guide points out the best vantage points and then steps back—this time is about what you want to do, not what a schedule demands. Hiking poles are there if you need them.

Lake Louise follows the same rhythm: two hours, your choice of pace. The Fairview Lookout trail is quieter than the main lakeshore walk and climbs to a higher viewpoint where the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise sits framed below. Your guide offers tips on where to go and stays available for photos or questions, but the time is yours. On the drive back to your accommodation, your guide offers insider recommendations for what to do next in Banff and the surrounding parks.

What’s included

• Pickup and drop-off from Banff or Canmore.
• a local guide sharing stories about wildlife, history and ecology.
• two hours to explore Moraine Lake at your own pace.
• two hours to explore Lake Louise at your own pace.
• local coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water refills.
• complimentary hiking poles.
• rain ponchos.
• and one tree planted in Canada through the Blue Green Planet Project for your booking.

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfant seats availablePets welcomePublic transport nearby

Operated by Into The Wild Tours

Is this one for you?Start your day in Banff or Canmore and reach both lakes by mid-morning—your guide handles the route while you paddle, hike, or simply absorb the views.

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Top questions

What's the best way to spend two hours at Moraine Lake?

Moraine Lake offers three main ways to spend your time: paddling a canoe across the turquoise water, climbing the Rockpile for panoramic views and photography, or walking the lakeshore trail. Your guide will point out the best spots and you choose what appeals to you.

Can I hike at Lake Louise, or is it just a walk along the shore?

Both options are available at Lake Louise. The lakeshore trail is the most popular route, but your guide recommends the Fairview Lookout trail as a quieter alternative that climbs to a higher viewpoint overlooking the lake and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

What's included in the tour besides the guide?

Pickup and drop-off from Banff or Canmore, local coffee, tea, hot chocolate and water refills, complimentary hiking poles, rain ponchos, and a knowledgeable guide are all included. Groups stay under 13 guests for a more personalized experience.

How long is the drive to Moraine Lake from Banff?

The tour travels along the Bow Valley Parkway, a scenic route through forested landscapes. The itinerary includes a brief stop at Morant's Curve before arriving at Moraine Lake, though the exact drive time depends on traffic and conditions.

What should I bring or wear?

Dress in layers—mornings at Moraine Lake are chilly and mountain weather is unpredictable. Bring your own food if you prefer, as options at the lakes are limited, pricey and often have long lineups. Ponchos are provided if rain arrives.

Is the tour suitable if I'm not very fit or experienced with hiking?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels. You spend two hours at each lake and choose your own activity—paddling, hiking, or simply walking the lakeshore. Hiking poles are provided, and your guide can suggest routes that match your comfort level.