Exploring the stunning Canadian Rockies has never been easier than with this private shuttle day trip from Lake Louise to Johnston Canyon. For under $300, adventurers can customize a 10-hour excursion featuring must-see sights like cascading waterfalls, glacial lakes, and the iconic Fairmont Chateau. With flexible scheduling and free cancellation, it’s the perfect way to take in Banff’s natural beauty. What’s the catch? Well, that’s what you’ll have to find out.
Key Points
- A private shuttle service provides day trips from Lake Louise to Johnston Canyon, covering scenic hikes and visits to glacial lakes.
- The 10-hour excursion is priced at $277.44 for up to 6 participants, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The Johnston Canyon hike offers opportunities to admire stunning waterfalls, with a duration of approximately 75 minutes.
- Visits to Lake Minnewanka and Moraine Lake provide opportunities for immersing in natural splendor and photography.
- Optional activities include Fairmont Chateau afternoon tea and canoeing at Moraine Lake.
Tour Overview and Pricing
This tour offers a private shuttle service for a day trip from Lake Louise to Johnston Canyon and back. Priced at $277.44 for up to 6 participants, it’s an affordable way to explore Banff’s natural wonders.
The 10-hour excursion includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option. Along the way, you’ll hike scenic trails, admire stunning waterfalls, and visit glacial lakes like Lake Minnewanka and Lake Louise.
Optional activities like afternoon tea and canoeing are available for an additional fee. The private nature of the tour allows for itinerary customization to suit your group’s preferences.
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Highlights and Activities
The tour highlights scenic hikes at Johnston Canyon, where visitors can admire stunning waterfalls. The itinerary also includes visits to glacial lakes, such as Lake Minnewanka and Lake Louise, with an optional Fairmont Chateau afternoon tea and canoeing at Moraine Lake.
| Activity | Duration |
| — | — |
| Johnston Canyon Hike | 75 minutes |
| Lake Minnewanka Visit | 75 minutes |
| Lake Louise & Fairview Lookout | 45 minutes |
| Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Chateau | 45 minutes |
| Moraine Lake | 90 minutes |
The private shuttle tour allows for a customizable itinerary, ideal for groups, with meeting points in Calgary, Canmore, or Banff. Guests should note the extra fee for Moraine Lake during peak season and check availability for starting times.
Johnston Canyon
Scenic trails wind through the Johnston Canyon, offering visitors a chance to admire the stunning waterfalls that cascade down the limestone walls.
The hike along the canyon’s path takes around 75 minutes, allowing ample time to explore the two main waterfalls – the Lower Falls and the Upper Falls.
At the Lower Falls, guests can venture through a series of catwalks and bridges that provide panoramic views of the cascading water.
The hike to the Upper Falls offers a more challenging yet rewarding experience, leading adventurers to a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the powerful, thundering waterfall.
Lake Minnewanka
After exploring the scenic trails of Johnston Canyon, the tour continues to Lake Minnewanka, a glacial lake surrounded by towering peaks.
Guests have 75 minutes to take in the lake’s stunning beauty and serene atmosphere. They can choose to simply admire the views or opt for an optional cruise (additional fee) to further explore the lake and its surroundings.
The mirror-like surface of the water reflects the impressive mountain landscape, providing a picturesque setting for photos.
This stop on the Banff day trip offers a chance to take in the region’s natural splendor.
More Great Tours NearbyLake Louise and Fairview Lookout
From Lake Minnewanka, the tour then takes guests to the iconic Lake Louise and the nearby Fairview Lookout.
Visitors can:
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Marvel at the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Louise, surrounded by the towering Rocky Mountains.
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Hike to the Fairview Lookout for panoramic vistas of the lake and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel.
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Stroll along the lakeshore and admire the historic chateau.
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Capture breathtaking photos of this picturesque alpine setting.
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Opt for an indulgent afternoon tea at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (additional fee).
The tour allows ample time to explore this renowned Canadian destination before continuing on to Moraine Lake.
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Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Chateau
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers visitors an indulgent afternoon tea experience.
Set in the opulent surroundings of this iconic Canadian hotel, guests can savor an array of fine teas, delicate finger sandwiches, and freshly baked scones served with Devonshire cream and jam.
This time-honored tradition allows travelers to relax and appreciate the magnificent views of Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier.
An optional experience on the Lake Louise & Fairview Lookout tour, the afternoon tea offers a refined respite from the day’s adventures.
Advance booking is recommended to secure this special treat.
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake provides visitors with a breathtaking conclusion to the day trip. The lake’s vibrant turquoise waters, flanked by the imposing Ten Peaks, create a stunning natural landscape.
Guests have the option to explore the area further by renting a canoe, an activity that offers a unique perspective of the surroundings.
Key highlights at Moraine Lake include:
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Admiring the iconic view of the lake and mountains from the Lakeshore Trail
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Hiking the Consolation Lakes Trail for panoramic vistas
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Spotting wildlife like grizzly bears, moose, and pikas
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Capturing the perfect photograph at the lakeside rock pile
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Enjoying a picnic lunch while taking in the breathtaking scenery
Customization and Flexibility
Since this is a private tour, the itinerary can be customized to suit the preferences of the group, making it an ideal choice for friends or family.
Meeting points can be arranged in Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, allowing for greater convenience.
The private nature of the tour provides flexibility, enabling the group to adjust the schedule as needed.
Whether it’s spending more time at a particular location or incorporating additional activities, the tour can be tailored to create a memorable experience for all participants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Book the Tour for a Date Beyond 24 Hours in Advance?
Yes, you can book the tour for a date beyond 24 hours in advance. The tour offers a "Reserve now & pay later" option, which allows you to secure your booking without immediate payment.
What Is the Maximum Number of Participants Allowed per Group?
The maximum number of participants allowed per group is 6. The tour is priced from $277.44 per group, allowing up to 6 people to take part in the day trip.
Is the Driver Able to Provide Commentary During the Tour?
The driver speaks English, so they can provide commentary during the tour. The private nature of the tour allows for customization of the itinerary, making it ideal for groups of friends or family.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Afternoon Tea?
The tour information doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions for the optional afternoon tea at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel. Guests can likely request accommodations for any dietary needs when booking the tour.
Can I Request a Specific Pick-Up Location Within Calgary, Canmore, or Banff?
Yes, you can request a specific pick-up location within Calgary, Canmore, or Banff. The private tour allows for customizable meeting points, making it ideal for groups who want to start their day trip from a convenient location.
The Sum Up
This private shuttle day trip from Lake Louise to Johnston Canyon offers a comprehensive and customizable experience to explore the breathtaking beauty of Banff. With the flexibility to tailor the itinerary, visitors can enjoy scenic hikes, stunning vistas, and optional activities like afternoon tea and canoeing, all within a 10-hour excursion. It’s an unforgettable way to take in the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Guided Tours in Banff
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