Banff Top 5 Lakes Day Trip from Calgary — Lake Louise, Emerald Lake & Banff Town
Spend a day chasing glacier-fed turquoise lakes and dramatic mountain views on a guided tour from Calgary. Visit Lake Louise, Emerald Lake, Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack and Johnson Lake, with short walks, photo stops, and an optional Banff Gondola ascent.
The Experience
Before You Go
Be ready at pickup
Pickup windows are strict—arrive 5–10 minutes early at your designated hotel or meeting spot to keep the schedule tight.
Dress in layers
Mountain weather changes quickly; a windproof outer layer and mid-layer make short lakeside stops comfortable year-round.
Carry a refillable bottle
Bottled water is provided, but a refillable bottle with a filter cap reduces waste and keeps you hydrated on walks.
Respect wildlife distance
Wild animals are common—stay on trails and at least 50 meters from larger mammals; do not feed wildlife.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Two Jack Lake shoreline for a quieter sunrise composition
- •Scenic pullouts on the Bow Valley Parkway for unhurried wildlife viewing
Wildlife
- •Elk
- •Bighorn sheep
Conservation Note
Stick to designated trails, carry out all trash, and maintain distance from wildlife; park fees fund trail maintenance and conservation programs.
Banff National Park was established in 1885 after the discovery of thermal springs and the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway, making it Canada’s first national park.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lake Louise shoreline near the chateau
- • Emerald Lake loop for reflections
- • Banff Gondola summit boardwalk (optional)
What to Bring
Waterproof shellEssential
Wind and mountain rain can appear suddenly—stay dry and warm between stops.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Grip and ankle support help on muddy boardwalks and rocky lake shores.
Warm mid-layerEssential
Temperatures drop quickly at higher viewpoints, especially near water and in late afternoon.
Camera or phone with extra batteryEssential
Lakes and mountain light change fast—bring extra power for a full day of shooting.
Common Questions
Where does the tour pick up and return?
The tour offers hotel pickup in Calgary, Canmore, and Banff; specific pickup times vary by location—confirm your pickup point on your booking voucher.
Are national park admission fees included?
Yes, the tour includes the required admission to Banff and Yoho National Parks.
Is the Banff Gondola included?
The Gondola is an optional stop and requires an additional ticket if you choose to ride to Sulphur Mountain summit.
Can I bring young children or infants?
Yes—infant seats are available; the day includes short, family-friendly walks but plan for a long day on the coach.
Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour accommodates light mobility limitations—most stops involve short, mostly paved walks, but some viewpoints have steps or uneven terrain.
What happens in bad weather?
The operator may cancel in severe weather; the cancellation policy allows a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance or if weather forces a cancellation.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10 hours
Location
Banff, Alberta
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light fitness—comfortable with several short walks (0.5–2.5 km) and standing for photo stops throughout the day.
Ready to Explore Banff?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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