Moraine Lake, Lake Louise & Banff Secrets | Award-Winning Tour
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Moraine Lake, Lake Louise & Banff Secrets | Award-Winning Tour

Active
(518 reviews)
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Explore the best of Banff National Park with the Canadian Rockies top-rated tour operator.

This active, small-group guided tour is our best hits album, featuring the top destinations that should be on everyone's Banff bucket list, plus a tailor made selection of other stunning stops & memorable experiences that are both on and off the radar of most visitors.

- Explore Banff National Park’s most popular locations, plus a few of our local secret spots

- Guaranteed & expedited lakeshore access to the famous glacier fed lakes, Lake Louise & Moraine Lake (now closed to public vehicle access, meaning a tour is the best way to guarantee your visit)

- Expert local guiding and a tailor made itinerary designed for you so you can maximize your experience on the day

- A tailor made finish to the day, factoring in recent wildlife sightings and local insights to include a surprise stop or two (or three) that will leave you stoked you chose to explore with us!

Available options

Half Day Lakes Only Tour

Duration: 4 hours

Moraine Lake, Lake Louise & Banff Secrets | Award-Winning Tour

What's included

Tailor-made finish to the day, factoring in recent wildlife sightings & our guests interests!
Access to Moraine Lake
Water refills (please BYO water bottle)
Award-winning small group tour, led by a certified and expert local guide with photography training
Small group guarantee (Max 12 guests)
Onboard cooler to keep drinks & lunch cold
Pick-up and drop-off at Banff Train Station
Upscale, modern & spacious transportation with large panoramic windows perfect for spotting wildlife

Detailed itinerary

1

We’ll meet you in Banff for a smooth start to your day. Our upscale and spacious van and friendly expert local guide will be waiting to welcome you aboard for a day of adventure, comfort, and discovery.

2

Your adventure takes place in the heart of Banff National Park, with guaranteed stops at two of the most iconic and in-demand locations in Canada: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.

But that’s just the beginning.

This isn’t a scripted, cookie-cutter tour. This is where the Radventures magic comes in — we throw away the script and build the day around you.

Your local guide draws on deep insider knowledge to choose the best route and secret stops based on:

Recent wildlife sightings,

your group’s interests, vibe, and energy, and

timing and conditions that day.

This means no two tours are ever the same. Whether it’s a secluded canyon, a peaceful lookout, or a backroad that wildlife hang out but most visitors miss, we’ll take you where the experience will be most memorable — not just where the guidebooks say to go.

3

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 having to arrive before 3am 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 want 1.5-2 hours to explore the lakeside trails, rent a canoe, 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.

4
Stop 4

This glacier-fed lake becomes the most intense and vivid shade of turquoise blue in the summer months meaning you'll likely end up pinching yourself to see if you're dreaming.

Now closed to public vehicle access, Moraine Lake is rightfully at the top of everyones Banff bucket list after becoming the number 1 destination in the Canadian Rockies in recent years.

With strict visitation restrictions in place since 2023, joining this small group tour is the best way to guarantee your stress-free visit to Moraine Lake.

Don't get fooled into a shorter stop! At Moraine Lake, you will want 1.5-2 hours to explore the lakeside trails, rent a canoe or enjoy a picnic lunch in one of our secret spots.

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

5
Stop 5

If times allow we will drive down the Bow Valley Parkway with potential tailor-made stop/route: A relaxing and scenic drive through forested valleys and wildlife corridors. Great for spotting wildlife and taking in uninterrupted views of Castle Mountain and Storm Mountain, all whilst avoiding the traffic of the Trans Canada Highway. *Not a guaranteed route/stop.*

6

If time allow we will make a stop at the famous Morant's Curve. A classic Canadian Rockies scene straight from a postcard. Morant’s Curve offers a stunning bend in the Bow River with the backdrop of towering peaks — and if we’re lucky, a train rolling through for the ultimate shot. *Not a guaranteed stop.*

7

If time allows, we’ll pause at Castle Cliff Viewpoint or Moose Meadows, peaceful and scenic spots nestled along the Bow Valley Parkway. Castle Cliff Viewpoint offers a short walk to a small viewing platform with breathtaking vistas of Castle Mountain’s rugged cliffs. It’s a quiet roadside stop with a tranquil forest setting, ideal for soaking in the scenery and spotting wildlife.

What's not included

Hotel pick-up in Banff & Lake Louise (please contact Radventures BEFORE booking for availability)
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
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
168 reviews
5★
146
4★
11
3★
8
2★
1
1★
2
Tripadvisor 4.9
350 reviews
5★
327
4★
14
3★
4
2★
2
1★
3

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 unable to join our small group adventures
Not recommended for travellers with mobility issues

Meeting point

For hotel pick-ups in Banff, Canmore & Lake Louise please contact Radventures BEFORE booking.

There is free, all day parking at Banff Train Station. Please meet our guide at the front of the Banff Train Station building and allow an extra 5 minutes for parking and walking to the meet point.

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.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 8-90
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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