What should I wear and what should I bring for the tour?
We recommend dressing in layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking/hiking shoes are essential for exploring the area around the lakes. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle.
What weather can I expect?
Weather in the mountains is often unpredictable and forecasts can be misleading. During summer, we can experience almost every type of weather imaginable. From very hot and dry conditions to freezing cold conditions, we see it all. Not to mention, it can be cloudy, foggy & rainy, and we even sometimes see snow on our summer trips. With that being said, it’s common for the weather to change quickly, so if it’s cloudy & raining, cross your fingers and in no time it might just be bright and sunny again.
Note: The tour runs rain, snow or sunshine, but safety is our first priority. We may modify the itinerary if conditions are severe to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
What happens if there is wildfire smoke during my tour?
During the summer months, wildfire smoke and haze can occasionally affect the Banff area, even when there are no active wildfires nearby. Smoke can travel long distances from fires in other regions and conditions can change throughout the day. Our tours continue to operate when it is safe to do so, and your guide will monitor conditions throughout the day. If you have any concerns about air quality or how smoke may affect your experience, please speak with your guide, who can provide the most up-to-date information and recommendations.
What hikes can I do during the tour?
There are several hiking trails catering to different fitness levels and interests around Lake Louise. Easier options include the Lakeshore Trail and Fairview Lookout, while longer and more challenging hikes include Lake Agnes Teahouse, Little Beehive, Big Beehive, and Plain of Six Glaciers. Your guide can help recommend the best option based on your preferences, available time, and the conditions on the day.
How much walking is involved on the tour?
Our tours are designed to be flexible, and all walking is optional. You can choose how much you would like to explore at each stop, and your guide will be happy to suggest easier alternatives or viewpoints if you prefer a more relaxed pace. Guests with limited mobility or those who prefer not to walk long distances are welcome — please let us know if you have any concerns so we can help you plan the best experience.
Can I rent a canoe?
Yes - Canoes can be rented at Lake Louise, weather dependent.
Rentals are provided by the local operator at each lake and are strictly subject to availability. Rentals are on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be pre-booked. In addition, priority access is given to guests staying at each hotel.
Can I buy lunch at Lake Louise?
Yes, however, due to a combination of time constraints, expensive prices and the limited food options available, we recommend bringing your own packed lunch.
Will I see wildlife and what might I see?
Wildlife sightings are common in Banff National Park, including around Lake Louise, plus along the journey from Banff or Canmore. Keep an eye out for animals such as elk, deer, bears, bighorn sheep and more. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never approach or feed wildlife. Your guide will be sure to tell you about some of our popular animals, but be sure to ask questions if there is anything you want to learn.
While we aim to provide opportunities for wildlife sightings, we cannot guarantee encounters. The presence of wildlife can vary based on many factors like season, weather and even just our luck. Typically, the more you look, the luckier you often are.
Is a National Park Pass included in the tour?
Yes, your Parks Canada National Park Pass is included in the cost of your tour and covers your entry to Banff National Park for the duration of the tour. You do not need to purchase a separate pass for the day of your tour. If you plan to spend additional time in the national parks before or after your tour, you may need to purchase your own separate pass.
What is the maximum group size?
Our tours are designed for small groups, with a maximum of 13 participants for shared tours and 14 for private tours, which ensures a more personalized experience.
What type of tour vehicle will I be in?
Our fleet of Ford Transit tour vans comfortably seat 14 passengers plus your driver and are designed to provide a smooth, spacious ride. Each van is equipped with high windows to soak in the scenery, along with air conditioning and heating to ensure you'll enjoy a comfortable journey, no matter the season.
How long does it take to travel from Canmore and Banff to the lakes?
From Banff, the drive typically takes around 45 minutes to Lake Louise. From Canmore, it's usually an extra 15 minutes. Driving between the lakes takes approximately 20 minutes.
Note: Parks Canada has announced an extensive plan to rehabilitate and modernize the Lake Louise Drive area throughout the summer of 2024. As such, traffic delays are highly likely.
What time will my tour return?
Return times can vary depending on traffic, wildlife sightings, weather, road conditions, and the pace of the day. While we aim to return close to the scheduled time, we recommend allowing some flexibility if you have plans afterwards.
If you'd like to know the scheduled return time for your specific tour, please contact our Operations Team and we'll be happy to confirm it for you.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While efforts have been made to improve accessibility within the National Parks, many areas may be challenging for individuals with mobility impairments. Locations throughout the park have designated accessible and viewing areas, but access to certain trails and viewpoints may be limited. Unfortunately, our tour vehicles are not equipped with lift systems, and as such, entering and exiting the vehicles may not be a suitable option for individuals with mobility impairments.
Are there opportunities for photography on the tour?
Banff National Park and its surrounding areas are a haven for photographers. With incredible glacial lakes, majestic mountain peaks, and countless other natural wonders, our tours are carefully crafted to provide you the opportunity to capture stunning photographs. We ensure that you not only have the time to snap incredible shots, but also to set aside your cameras and fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery.
Will it be busy?
We do our very best to avoid the large crowds to give you a more relaxed and intimate experience, but it’s not always that simple. Banff National Park and the surrounding area attracts more than 4 million visitors per year, and Lake Louise is easily one of the most popular sights in the park. For those of you who want to try and avoid the crowds, fear not, as our guides can recommend spots at each of the lakes which are typically the least crowded.
Can I bring my pet on the tour?
Certified service animals are always welcome on our tours.
We may also be able to accommodate other pets on a case-by-case basis, depending on factors such as the size of your pet, available space in the vehicle, the nature of the tour, and the comfort of other guests. If you'd like to bring a pet, please contact our Operations Team before booking so we can discuss the available options.
Why choose Explore Banff?
Choose Explore Banff Tours & Transfers for thoughtfully designed itineraries, small group experiences, and expert local guides who ensure a personalized and immersive adventure. With convenient pickups & comfortable transportation, we prioritize quality over quantity for a stress-free, unforgettable journey. Support a local family-owned tour company that truly cares about your experience in the Rockies!
