Lake Louise, Emerald Lake and Johnston Canyon Tour

Banff , Canada

Lake Louise, Emerald Lake and Johnston Canyon Tour

Active

(7 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Johnston Canyon's Magic: Traverse the gentle trails of Johnston Canyon, where autumn leaves crunch beneath your feet. Walk beside cascading waterfalls that are just beginning to take their frozen formations, and breathe in the crisp, mountain air.

Fall at Lake Louise: Be captivated by the tapestry of autumn colours & snow-capped peaks reflecting on the neon blue waters of the legendary Lake Louise. From gentle lakeside strolls to moments of reflection in its pristine surroundings, it’s a scene straight out of a postcard.

Emerald Lake’s Serene Beauty: Dive deep into nature’s splendour at Emerald Lake. With its vibrant blue-green waters set against a backdrop of golden larch trees, it’s a photographer’s dream and a traveller’s delight.

Wildlife Wonders: Our journey through Banff National Park’s backroads offers unrivalled opportunities to spot its enchanting inhabitants amidst the fall colours.

Available options

Lake Louise, Emerald Lake and Johnston Canyon Tour

What's included

Water refills (please BYO water bottle)

Upscale, modern & spacious transportation with large panoramic windows

Small group guarantee (Max 12 guests)

Essential gear (ice cleats/crampons, and hiking poles)

Pick-up and drop-off at Banff Train Station

Expert local guides

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Discover the breathtaking splendor of Banff National Park's premier winter walk at Johnston Canyon!

Upon arrival, your expert local guide will provide you with ice cleats/crampons and (optional) hiking poles, regaling you with fascinating tales and trivia as you journey along the gentle path towards the Lower Falls.

This trek takes about 30 minutes, covering a distance of 1.2 km with an elevation gain of 50m.

Upon reaching the Lower Falls, you can either return to the trailhead or venture further to the Upper Falls, which adds another 30 minutes and 1.3 km to the trek. There, you'll be spellbound by the most magnificent waterfalls in the canyon.

The complete round trip to the Upper Falls spans 2 hours, 5.0 km, with an elevation gain of 120m, suitable for those of average fitness.

Lake Louise has been drawing in visitors to the Canadian Rockies for over a century, and for good reason.

This famous alpine lake in Banff National Park is an unbelievable turquoise blue colour, fed by glacier melt and set to a backdrop of Mount Victoria and hanging glaciers.

As our guest on this small group tour, you’ll not only get guaranteed & expedited entry to the stunning Lake Louise, saving you the stress of waiting in long lines for crowded buses or trying to get a parking spot, but also a tailored itinerary from your expert local guide based on your preferences.

Don't get fooled into a shorter stop! At Lake Louise, you will be able to explore the lakeside trails, explore the Chateau Lake Louise or simply hang out under a tree and watch the world go by!

Your expert local guide will be on hand to give you all the information you need and show you where our local secret spots are, perfect for photos and away from the crowds.

Stop 3

It’s pretty easy to figure out where Emerald Lake gets its name.

If the colour of the lake isn't enough to move you, the surrounding landscape certainly will!

The President Range mountains surround the lake and form a natural amphitheater of the grandest scale with towering peaks and forested banks.

As our guest on this small group tour, you’ll get guaranteed & expedited entry right to the shoreline of the lake.

Here, you will have time to explore the lakeside trails or simply hang out under a tree and watch the world go by!

On Radventures full day epic guided adventures, our expert local guides like to throw in a surprise or two along the way to really make our guests day!

On this tour, we guarantee visiting Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise & Emerald Lake and experiencing the beauty of the Bow Valley Parkway at a minimum.

In between or before/after these stops, your guides will utilize all their local experience and knowledge of the weather, how to avoid big bus schedules & recent wildlife sightings to make a secret stop or two.

What's not included

Hotel pick-up and drop-off in Banff (please contact Radventures in advance before booking)

Premium upgrade that includes a picnic lunch (please contact Radventures before booking)

Guide gratuities (not mandatory but greatly appreciated)

Park Pass

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children 5 and under are not able to join our small group adventures (please contact Radventures if travelling with children for alternative options)

Not recommended for travelers with mobility issues

Meeting point

Meet your guide in front of the main train station building by the large flagpole.

About Banff

Banff is a resort town within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. Known for its stunning mountain landscapes, hot springs, and outdoor adventures, it's one of the most visited destinations in the Canadian Rockies. The town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and a charming mountain culture.

Top Attractions

Banff Gondola

The Banff Gondola takes visitors to the top of Sulphur Mountain for stunning views of the Canadian Rockies. The ride offers panoramic vistas and access to hiking trails and a restaurant.

Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate ($50-$60 CAD per adult)

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is one of the most famous and iconic lakes in the world. Known for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, it's a must-visit for hiking, photography, and relaxation.

Nature Half day to full day Free to visit, parking fees apply

Banff Upper Hot Springs

The Banff Upper Hot Springs offer a relaxing soak in natural mineral waters with stunning mountain views. The historic facility has been a popular attraction since the late 1800s.

Relaxation 1-2 hours Budget ($10-$15 CAD per adult)

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is another iconic turquoise lake in Banff National Park. Known for its stunning views and hiking trails, it's a popular spot for photography and outdoor activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to visit, parking fees apply

Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon is a beautiful hiking trail that leads to stunning waterfalls. The trail is well-maintained and offers breathtaking views of the canyon and waterfalls.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison

Bison is a local delicacy, often served as steaks or burgers. It's lean, flavorful, and a sustainable choice.

Main course Gluten-free and paleo-friendly options available.

Poutine

A Canadian classic, poutine consists of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Banff offers many variations, including gourmet and vegetarian options.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Elk

Elk is another local favorite, often served as steaks or in stews. It's lean, tender, and packed with flavor.

Main course Gluten-free and paleo-friendly options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Rock climbing Skiing and snowboarding Soaking in hot springs Scenic gondola rides Picnicking by the lake

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to March

Summer offers warm weather and ideal conditions for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Winter is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Crowds are highest during these peak seasons.

20-30°C (summer), -10-5°C (winter) 68-86°F (summer), 14-41°F (winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, French
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (MT), GMT-7 (standard time), GMT-6 (daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Banff is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Calgary International Airport • 130 km (81 miles)

By train

Banff Station

By bus

Banff Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Roam Transit offers affordable and convenient bus services throughout Banff and the surrounding areas. Buses are frequent and well-connected.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Banff Taxi, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Banff Banff Springs Canmore

Day trips

Canmore

25 km (16 miles) • Half day to full day

Canmore is a charming town near Banff, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities. It's known for its hiking trails, local shops, and stunning mountain views.

Yoho National Park

56 km (35 miles) • Full day

Yoho National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Kootenay National Park

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

Kootenay National Park is another stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities. It's a great option for a full-day trip from Banff.

Festivals

Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival • October Banff Jazz and Blues Festival • August Banff International Snow Sculpting Competition • January

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking.
Consider purchasing a Parks Canada pass for unlimited entry to national parks and historic sites.
Dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly, especially in the mountains.
Book accommodations, activities, and restaurants in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Be aware of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk, and maintain a safe and non-intrusive distance.