Question 1

How long is the tour?

Accepted Answer

The tour begins at 1:00pm and will return at 5:15pm, approximately 4.25 hours in length.

Question 2

What does the tour include?

Accepted Answer

The half-day tour includes transportation from most hotels in Banff on a guided bus tour along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway to Lake Louise. The tour includes 1 hour of free time at Lake Louise and hands on interpretive tools.

Question 3

Where is our pick up and drop off from?

Accepted Answer

We pick up from most hotels in Banff, and you can select your preferred pick-up location during the booking process. For drop offs, our guide will ask you on the way back where you would like to be dropped off either in town or at your hotel.

Question 4

How can I join this tour if I'm not staying in Banff?

Accepted Answer

You are welcome to meet us at any of our pick up locations in Banff to join the tour, and there is free parking at the Banff Train Station in Banff for up to nine hours. Guests parking here can select their pickup location as the Banff Train Station (in front of Main Entrance).

Most guests choose to self-drive into Banff, although please note that you will need to find parking in Banff that exceeds the duration of the tour. Please refer to the Town of Banff website for general parking information, or the banffparking.ca website for live parking availability. For guests staying in Canmore, you can also use the Roam bus service and disembark at the Banff High School. The closest pick up point to the Banff High School is across the road at the Elk and Avenue Hotel.

Question 5

How long are is the stop at Lake Louise?

Accepted Answer

We will be at Lake Louise for about one hour.

Question 6

Why doesn't this tour include Moraine Lake?

Accepted Answer

This tour operates in spring and fall while the access road to Moraine Lake is closed. While the access road is open (typically late May to early October), then the Discover Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Tour is operating.

Question 7

I want to see a turquoise lake, when does Lake Louise freeze?

Accepted Answer

Lake Louise usually thaws in June and starts to freeze in November. The lake is beautiful at anytime of year, but if you are set on seeing the famous blue-green water then the best time to visit is from late June to early September. In spring and fall the lake will still be frozen and likely covered with snow.

Question 8

Is there a lot of walking involved?

Accepted Answer

There will be at least one stop along the Bow Valley Parkway, as well as the stop at Lake Louise. At every stop you will have the opportunity to get off the bus and stretch your legs and all of the viewpoints are a short walk.

Question 9

Will I see wildlife on the tour?

Accepted Answer

There is a chance of seeing wildlife on the tour and we often spot animals, however we do not guarantee seeing wildlife on any of our tours. Our guides have a lot of knowledge about the animals within the park and can fill you in about them if you see any wildlife or if you have any questions.

Question 10

What is the cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

There is a 24 hour cancellation policy, which allows you to change/cancel or refund your booking up to 24 hours outside your booked tour (up to 7 days for group bookings).

Question 11

Should I tip my guide?

Accepted Answer

Tips are not expected, but are certainly appreciated. If you think your guide did a wonderful job and would like to indicate that with a tip, it will be graciously accepted.

Lake Louise Spring & Fall Tour

See iconic Lake Louise, famous for its jewel-like water nestled between rugged peaks. This stunning lake looks too beautiful to be real.

Gina's Pick

"You'll have a chance to see one of the most beautiful lakes in the world." - Gina , Hiking Guide, Discover Banff Tours