Banff Lake louise Ski Gondola Ride and three Lake Day tour

Planning a day in Banff can feel overwhelming, with so many breathtaking sights and activities vying for your attention. This particular tour offers a well-rounded experience, blending scenic views, outdoor adventures, and some iconic local spots, all for around $75 per person. It’s a full-day outing that promises an immersive taste of Banff’s natural beauty—if you’re prepared for a long, but rewarding, 8 to 10 hours.

We’ve been impressed by how much is packed into this tour, especially the chance to see Lake Louise, Lake Minnewanka, and Two Jack Lake in one day, along with a memorable gondola ride and relaxing stop at the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Two things we particularly appreciate? First, the variety—nature, panoramic vistas, and a touch of local culture. Second, the practicality of roundtrip transportation from key locations like Calgary and Banff, easing the logistics for travelers.

However, a word of caution: because the day is quite full, it might be a bit rushed for those wanting a relaxed pace or in-depth exploration. The tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy sight-seeing, stunning landscapes, and don’t mind a packed schedule. It’s especially good for first-timers to Banff or those with limited time but eager to see several highlights.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines gondola rides, three lakes, and hot springs into one day.
• Value for Money: At $75, it packs in transportation, admission, and guided insights.
• Flexible Itinerary: Includes a scenic stop at Moraine Lake, with alternative options depending on the season.
• Authentic Encounters: Local guides share stories and tips, enhancing the experience.
• Ideal for First-Timers: Perfect if you want a taste of Banff without the hassle of planning.
• Considerations: Long day, possible crowds, and limited free time at each stop.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Day in Banff: What to Expect

This tour is designed to show you some of the most iconic sights surrounding Banff, with an emphasis on visual beauty and outdoor charm. We’ll start early, with pickup options from Calgary, Canmore, and Banff. Once underway, the guide begins weaving stories about each location, making the drive informative and engaging.

The Scenic Drive and Stops

The first major highlight is Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake. These are among Banff’s most picturesque spots, often featured in postcards. Expect to hear legends about these lakes, and prepare your camera for stunning reflections and mountain backdrops. The tour description mentions that reviews praise the “stunning views” and say that “adventure lovers will love the way these lakes stand out as must-see photos.”

Next, you’ll stop at Surprise Corner and Bow Falls Viewpoint. These spots offer sweeping panoramas of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and the surrounding mountains. They’re perfect for snapping memorable photos or just soaking in the scenery. The guide will share interesting tidbits about the area’s history and the significance of these landmarks.

The gondola ride up to Mount Sulphur is a highlight. You’ll ascend in an air-conditioned vehicle (a welcome relief on warm days), reaching the Lake Louise Ski Gondola. Once at the summit, the views are the kind that leave visitors speechless—mountains, glaciers, and, weather permitting, perhaps even snow-capped peaks. Insider tips from guides can help you spot the best vistas and take advantage of photo opportunities.

At Lake Louise and Beyond

The tour includes a 45-minute stop at Lake Louise Village for a leisurely lunch. This window provides enough time to grab a meal, pick up souvenirs, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. While the tour doesn’t include meals, the village offers several options, from cafes to quick bites.

Depending on the season (May through October), you might also visit Moraine Lake or Vermilion Lakes—these are equally worth the visit. Between October 14 and May 31, the itinerary switches to Emerald Lake and the Natural Bridge, offering seasonal variety for repeat visitors.

Relaxation and Culture

After the sightseeing, you’ll unwind at the Banff Upper Hot Springs. These springs, with their soothing mineral waters, have been a wellness destination for over a century. It’s a lovely way to relax after a busy morning, and the tour guide often shares the springs’ history, making it more than just a soak. Many reviews mention how “soothing and relaxing” the hot springs are, especially after a day of outdoor activity.

Finally, the tour concludes with time exploring Banff Downtown, where shops, cafes, and the famous Banff sign await. It’s a great spot to pick up souvenirs, enjoy local snacks, or just soak in the town’s charming ambiance.

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Transportation and Practical Details

The tour provides roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, which simplifies logistics. Pickup options include Calgary, Canmore, and Banff, with specific times (8:00AM in Calgary, 9:30AM in Canmore, and 9:50AM in Banff). This flexibility is helpful, especially if you’re based outside Banff.

The full-day itinerary (8 to 10 hours) balances sightseeing with travel time. We appreciate the inclusion of admission to Moraine Lake (from June 1 to October 14), as it’s one of the more coveted sights in the region. For the off-season, the alternate stops continue to offer beautiful landscapes, ensuring the tour remains worthwhile year-round.

What to Bring

Don’t forget essentials: sunglasses, sun hat, jacket, rain gear—the weather can change quickly in the mountains. It’s also worth noting that baby strollers, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed, so plan accordingly.

Cost and Value

At $75 per person, this tour offers decent value considering the transportation, guided insights, and admissions included. It’s a budget-conscious way to see multiple highlights in one day, especially for travelers who prefer a guided experience over self-driving.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want an organized, worry-free day with a focus on sights and landscapes. It’s ideal for first-time visitors or those with limited time. Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning views, while casual explorers will enjoy the ease of transportation and guided commentary.

However, if you prefer a relaxed pace or want to spend more time at each location, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s not designed for those seeking deep hikes or in-depth exploration but rather a scenic overview that hits many of Banff’s most photogenic spots.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

If your goal is to see some of the most iconic sights around Banff without the hassle of planning each detail, this tour provides an excellent balance of comfort, stunning views, and cultural insights. The gondola ride alone is worth the price, offering panoramic vistas that are hard to match elsewhere. The lakes are the kind of sights that stay with you long after your trip ends, especially for photography buffs or nature lovers.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a full, active day that packs in multiple highlights. It’s a good fit for families, first-timers, or those with limited time in the region. Be prepared for a long day, but also expect a lot of memorable moments and beautiful scenery—truly some of the best in the Canadian Rockies.

FAQ

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, it provides roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes admission to Moraine Lake (from June 1 to October 14), a local guide, and transportation. Meals and travel insurance are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
While generally suitable, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with diabetes, or those over 95 years old due to the physical nature of some stops and the long day.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring sunglasses, a sun hat, jacket, and rain gear as weather can vary. Strollers, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed.

Can I customize the drop-off points?
Yes, you can specify the drop-off if different from the pickup points, including Banff, Canmore, or Calgary.

What if I want to visit Moraine Lake?
Admission to Moraine Lake is included from June 1 to October 14. Outside these dates, the tour visits Emerald Lake or other seasonal attractions.

This guided tour offers a solid introduction to Banff’s highlights, blending natural beauty with ease and value. It’s an experience tailored for those eager to see the Rockies’ best without the fuss of self-driving or multiple bookings. For a snapshot of Banff’s stunning scenery, it’s a practical and satisfying choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby