The 4 National Park Day Trips in Banff That Earn Their Price

1.Day Trip: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake, Banff

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 680 reviews · 8 to 10 hours (approx.) · from $89Our pick

See the Canadian Rockies without driving or hunting for parking. This 8 to 10-hour guided trip visits Banff and Yoho National Parks, with stops at Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake, Marble Canyon, and Natural Bridge. Guides such as Ahmed and Layse add local stories and photography help.

“Guide was friendly but while we appreciate the safe driving, the tour was more of a hop on/ hop off bus. She did give us history and information but most of our 4 stops were shortened: Marble canyon was 25-30 min (instead of 45 min), Lake Louise was 40 min (instead of 1 hour as described in the tour description), and Natural Bridge was completely skipped all together with no alternative spot so we got back to Banff super early around 3 pm (we started the tour 10 am). We were 2 passengers but only given 1 gift tote bag (I guess since we were together) when she had 3…”

Check availability →Read our full review

2.Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Half Day Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 416 reviews · 5 hours · from $77

Travel from downtown Banff to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in a shared shuttle, with about 75 minutes at each stop. Drivers such as RJ, Jules, and Gentry offer clear instructions and useful photo tips, while you explore independently. Bring water, snacks, and weather gear.

“Great experience after attempting and failing to obtain tickets for the Parks shuttles. Minibus was very clean and comfortable and collected us from right outside our hotel. No stress over navigating or parking. Jules our driver was really friendly, helpful and punctual and showed us the best places to go. The views at Moraine Lake were awesome, and we had time to take a kayak out on Lake Louise which our son really enjoyed. Thanks so much for a great and memorable experience.”

Check availability →Read our full review

3.Athabasca Glacier and Columbia Icefield Day Trip

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 408 reviews · 11 hours · from $276

Spend 11 hours traveling from Banff along the Icefields Parkway with guides such as Jake, Emma, or Roz. Ride an Ice Explorer onto Athabasca Glacier, cross the Glacier Skywalk above Sunwapta Valley, stop at Bow Lake, and enjoy a packed lunch. Expect an early start and a full day on the road.

“Exceptional Tour with Kaya! My experience with Discover Banff was truly unforgettable, and a lot of that is thanks to our extraordinary guide, Kaya. Her vast knowledge about glaciers and the stunning natural landscapes of Banff made the tour incredibly engaging. She took us through some of the most wondrous places in the area, providing fascinating insights along the way. One of the highlights was spotting black bears in the wild! Kaya not only made the experience safe and enjoyable, but she also took the time to educate us on the differences between black bears and grizzly bears, which was both fascinating and reassuring. Overall, I highly recommend Discover Banff…”

Check availability →Read our full review

4.Lake Louise Moraine Lake Johnston Canyon 1.5h Half Day Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 323 reviews · 4 to 5 hours (approx.) · from $44Best value

Ride from Canmore or Banff to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise in summer, or Johnston Canyon in winter. You get 1 to 1.5 hours at each stop to walk, take photos, and explore independently. Guides such as Edward and William may also share local tips, stories, snacks, and photo help.

“Our driver Edward was fantastic; funny, knowledgeable and clear. He took time to explain, point to great viewing spots and a bit of the history of locations. Well worth it. Thank you Edward”

Check availability →Read our full review