Discover the enchanting beauty of Banff National Park in winter on the "Best of Banff Winter" tour. This 8-hour adventure takes you to the iconic Lake Louise, where you’ll glide across the frozen surface. Explore the serene trails of Johnston Canyon and marvel at the stunning frozen waterfalls. With personalized attention from expert local guides, you’ll learn about the winter wonderland and create unforgettable memories. But that’s just the beginning – the tour has even more to offer.
About Your Stay
- Explore the winter wonders of Banff National Park with a personalized 8-hour tour, including ice skating on Lake Louise and snowshoeing through scenic trails.
- Marvel at the frozen waterfalls and stunning vistas of Johnston Canyon during the guided tour, with an optional visit to the Upper Falls.
- Enjoy comfortable transportation with large panoramic windows and an enthusiastic, English-speaking guide who provides local insights and stories.
- Benefit from essential gear like ice cleats/crampons and hiking poles, as well as the flexibility to arrange optional skate and snowshoe rentals.
- Receive a 5/5 rating from previous customers who praise the tour’s expertise, variety of activities, and suitability for couples, friends, solo adventurers, and families.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Best of Banff Winter tour offers an immersive experience in the stunning natural beauty of Banff National Park. Priced from $153.53 per person, this 8-hour tour limits group size to 12 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate adventure.
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can book now and pay later.
The tour includes ice skating on Lake Louise, snowshoeing on trails, exploring frozen waterfalls, and scenic drives with photo stops.
Transportation is provided in a comfortable van or minibus with panoramic windows, and an expert guide offers local insights throughout the day.
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Itinerary and Activities
Though the tour begins with pickup at the Banff Train Station, hotel pickup is also available upon request.
Once on the road, the day’s activities commence with ice skating on the frozen Lake Louise, where optional rentals are provided.
Commence the day’s activities with ice skating on the frozen Lake Louise, where optional rentals are provided.
Next, the group will experience snowshoeing along scenic trails.
The highlight is exploring the iconic Johnston Canyon, where they’ll witness the frozen waterfalls.
After lunch, an optional visit to the Upper Falls offers stunning views.
The tour also includes scenic drives through Banff National Park, allowing ample photo opportunities.
Transportation and Guide
Comfortable, spacious tour vans or minibuses with large panoramic windows transport guests throughout the day. A live, English-speaking guide provides local insights and stories, enhancing the experience.
| Feature | Description |
|:——–|:———–|
| Transportation | Comfortable tour vans or minibuses with panoramic windows |
| Guide | Live, English-speaking guide providing local insights |
| Water/Beverages | Bring your own water bottle; hot beverages provided |
| Optional Rentals | Skates and snowshoes available (contact in advance) |
The essential gear, including ice cleats/crampons and hiking poles, is provided, ensuring guests are well-equipped for the day’s activities.
What’s Included and Requirements
The tour includes expert local guides, pickup and drop-off at the Banff Train Station, and essential gear like ice cleats/crampons and hiking poles.
Lunch is also provided, and guests can bring their own or contact Radventures for options.
Optional rentals for skates and snowshoes are available, but must be arranged in advance.
The tour has the following requirements:
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Minimum age: 12 years, with children under 6 not permitted.
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Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended.
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Activities are optional, and relaxation is welcome.
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Guests should bring their own water bottle, as hot beverages like tea, coffee, and hot chocolate are provided.
Customer Feedback and Ratings
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Best of Banff Winter tour, with an impressive 5/5 rating based on 4 reviews.
Travelers highlight the expertise and enthusiasm of the local guides, who provide insightful commentary and create comfortable, informative experiences.
The tour’s flexibility and variety, from ice skating to snowshoeing to scenic drives, have delighted couples, friends, solo adventurers, and families alike.
Reviewers consistently express high satisfaction with the overall quality of the tour, making it a must-do winter activity for anyone visiting Banff National Park.
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Exploring the Frozen Beauty of Lake Louise
Although Lake Louise is renowned for its stunning turquoise waters in the summer, visitors are often enthralled by the frozen beauty of the lake in the winter.
Gliding across the ice-covered surface is a magical experience, offering:
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Unparalleled views of the snow-capped Rocky Mountains that surround the lake.
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The opportunity to try ice skating, with rentals available on-site.
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The chance to explore the frozen waterfalls and ice formations that adorn the lake’s edges.
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A serene and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for taking in the winter wonderland.
Discovering the Enchanting Johnston Canyon
After exploring the frozen beauty of Lake Louise, the tour continues to the enchanting Johnston Canyon.
Guests will venture along the canyon’s trails, taking in the stunning frozen waterfalls. A guided tour brings the geology and history of this natural wonder to life.
Visitors can choose to hike further to the Upper Falls, marveling at the icy cascades. Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide provides fascinating insights and local stories, enhancing the discovery of this winter wonderland.
With the essential gear provided, guests can fully enjoy the magic of Johnston Canyon.
Taking in the Winter Wonderland of Banff National Park
With the frozen wonders of Lake Louise and the enchanting Johnston Canyon already explored, the Best of Banff Winter tour takes visitors deeper into the stunning natural landscapes of Banff National Park.
The journey includes:
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Scenic drives through the park, offering breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, pine forests, and pristine valleys.
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Opportunities to spot local wildlife, from majestic elk to playful squirrels, against the serene winter backdrop.
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Guided walks along well-maintained trails, allowing guests to enjoy the tranquil beauty of the park.
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Time to simply pause, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and appreciate the serene, untamed majesty of Banff’s winter wonderland.
Questions About Your Stay
What Is the COVID-19 Protocol for This Tour?
Radventures follows all local COVID-19 guidelines and recommendations. Guests are required to wear masks during the tour and maintain social distancing. Tour group sizes are limited to allow for proper spacing. Hand sanitizer is provided throughout the experience.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks for this tour. The tour includes lunch, but you’re welcome to pack your own meals and snacks if you’d prefer. Just keep in mind the tour provides hot beverages like tea and coffee.
Are There Any Accessibility Accommodations Available?
The tour doesn’t explicitly mention accessibility accommodations, but travelers with disabilities are advised to contact the tour operator, Radventures, to inquire about any special arrangements that can be made to ensure a comfortable experience.
Do I Need to Tip the Tour Guide?
Tipping the tour guide is not mandatory but is appreciated. It’s common to tip between 10-20% of the total tour cost to show your satisfaction with the guide’s service and performance. The exact amount is at your discretion.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour package doesn’t mention an option to extend the duration, but you could check with the tour operator, Radventures, to see if they offer any upgrades or add-ons to extend the experience. They may be able to accommodate a longer tour upon request.
Final Verdict On This Stay
The "Best of Banff Winter" tour offers a captivating winter experience in one of Canada’s most stunning national parks. Visitors can explore the frozen beauty of Lake Louise, discover the enchanting Johnston Canyon, and enjoy the serene winter landscape. With expert local guides and a small group size, this tour provides a personalized and unforgettable adventure for those seeking to experience the beauty of Banff in the winter.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Banff
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