Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Tour: Small Group, Wildlife Route

Summary

Quiet lakes, golden light and a chance at wild grizzlies

You’ll ride from Banff or Canmore through forested wildlife corridors to see Moraine Lake’s unreal turquoise colors and pause at Lake Louise’s shore before most crowds arrive. With a small group and local guide sharing stories (and maybe coffee), there’s time to wander or just sit quietly by the water. You might even spot elk—or if luck’s on your side, a bear—in their own backyard.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the color—Moraine Lake just doesn’t look real, you know? It’s that blue-green you see in postcards but never expect to catch with your own eyes. Our guide, Sam, handed me a coffee right out of the van (which I didn’t expect but really needed), and then pointed out how the peaks around us were still holding onto last night’s mist. There was this hush, except for one crow making a racket over by the canoes. We had about an hour and a half here on the morning tour—enough time to wander along the water’s edge and try skipping rocks (I’m still terrible at it). The air smelled like pine needles and cold stone.

Driving between Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, Sam slowed down near Bow River—said this stretch is famous for wildlife, especially bears. Everyone got quiet for a minute, peering out the windows like kids hoping for Santa. No grizzly that day (unless you count the guy in our group who snored all through the drive), but we did spot elk grazing just off the road. The van felt roomy—14 people max—and nobody seemed rushed or crowded. I liked that if you got chilly you could just duck back inside for a bit.

Lake Louise came next, and honestly it was busier than Moraine but still peaceful somehow—maybe because we were early enough to miss most of the crowds. I took my shoes off and dipped my feet in; freezing but worth it. Sam told us about how locals judge spring by when these lakes finally thaw (apparently there are bets). By then sunlight was hitting the water at an angle that made everything glow gold for a few minutes—one of those little things that sticks with you after.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Moraine Lake and Lake Louise

• Travel through wildlife corridor
• Pass by Vermilion Lakes and Mt Rundle
• Explore Moraine Lake for 1.5 hours
• Visit Lake Louise for 1.5 hours

Top questions

How long do we spend at Moraine Lake on this tour?

You’ll have 1.5 hours at Moraine Lake on the morning tour or 1 hour during the sunset option.

Is hotel pickup included from Banff or Canmore?

Yes, pickup is included from various hotels in Banff, Canmore, and Harvie Heights.

What kind of vehicle is used for this tour?

The tour uses a spacious 14-passenger van with AC and high roof for comfort.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed during the trip?

No, wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed but are common along the corridor route.

Can I bring young children or infants on this day trip?

Yes, infant seats are available if requested in advance; strollers can be accommodated with notice.

How much time do we get at Lake Louise?

You’ll have 1.5 hours at Lake Louise on morning tours or 1 hour on sunset tours.

Is entry to Moraine Lake included in the price?

Yes, access fees for Moraine Lake are included in your booking.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup from Banff, Canmore or Harvie Heights; all access fees for Moraine Lake; travel through a prime wildlife corridor; a knowledgeable local guide sharing stories about Banff’s nature; comfortable transport in a high-roof van; and free water refills if you bring your own bottle.