CANMORE GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Two Turquoise Icons: A Full Day at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise
A guided full‑day tour from Canmore that gives extended time for hiking, canoeing, wildlife spotting, and unhurried sightseeing at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise.
Two Turquoise Icons: A Full Day at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise.
Spend a full day in Banff National Park with unhurried time at two of the Canadian Rockies’ most photographed lakes—Moraine Lake and Lake Louise—traveling through wildlife corridor habitat and stopping to hike, paddle, or simply absorb the mountains and turquoise water.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Two iconic lakes in one relaxed day
This full‑day excursion visits Moraine Lake first and then Lake Louise, with ample free time at each site so you can hike, rent a canoe, stroll the shoreline, or simply linger at the viewpoints without feeling rushed.
Wildlife corridor sightings en route
The drive passes through a recognized wildlife corridor and habitat where guests often see elk, deer and other Rocky Mountain species—sightings are common though not guaranteed.
Unrushed time for hiking and canoeing
Choose between two timing options that allocate extended free time at one lake or the other; canoe rentals are available on a first‑come, first‑served basis so extended schedules let you plan a paddle or a longer hike.
What the day feels like
How the day unfolds
Begin with morning pickups in Canmore, Harvie Heights and Banff and travel in a comfortable, panoramic van into Banff National Park. The route takes you first to Moraine Lake for guided arrival and free time at the Rockpile and shoreline, then continues to Lake Louise for longer exploration—hiking, canoeing, or lingering at viewpoints—before returning to the original pickup areas in the afternoon.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits—and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Bring snacks or buy on site (note lines can be long), a refillable water bottle (water refills provided), comfortable shoes for hiking, layered clothing for rapidly changing weather, sunglasses, sunscreen, and bug spray. If you plan to hike, bring appropriate gear including bear spray.
Pack snacks or a lunch; you may also purchase food at the lakes but expect queues at cafés and kiosks. Water refills are available—bring a bottle to refill.
If you intend to bring an inflatable SUP, notify the operator in advance so they can confirm vehicle space; umbrella provision is available in case of unexpected weather.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Where and when are pickups?
Pickups are available from hotels in Canmore and Harvie Heights at 8:00 AM and approximately 8:30 AM from Banff.
How long is the tour?
The tour runs approximately 9–9.5 hours.
Are national park passes included?
Yes—the Banff National Park Pass and access to Moraine Lake are included with the tour.
Can guides join me on hikes?
No—guides will not accompany guests on hikes, though they can take photos and offer guidance before and after your hikes.
Is canoe rental included?
No—canoe rental is not included; rentals operate on a first‑come, first‑served basis and the dock rates are approximately CAD 160 per hour per canoe.
What are the child seat rules and fees?
Children under 6 years old who weigh 18 kg (40 lbs) or less must be in a child safety seat. Guests are encouraged to bring their own; if you need the operator’s seat, contact them before booking and a CAD 40 fee applies.