Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 18 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer worth booking?
Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer is a 8-hour experience in Calgary, Canada, from $439 per person. It scores 68 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 18 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 68 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (18)
- Duration
- 8 hours
- From
- $439 per person
From Calgary or Banff visiting both Banff National Park and Yoho National Park Tour is a perfect sightseeing of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. From the turquoise lakes and towering glaciers to the charming town of Banff and the breathtaking vistas of Yoho National Park, this tour promises memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you are paddling on serene waters, hiking scenic trails, or simply soaking in the stunning views, every moment on this tour is an adventure waiting to unfold.
What you get
About this experience
From Calgary or Banff visiting both Banff National Park and Yoho National Park Tour is a perfect sightseeing of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. From the turquoise lakes and towering glaciers to the charming town of Banff and the breathtaking vistas of Yoho National Park, this tour promises memories that will last a lifetime. Whether you are paddling on serene waters, hiking scenic trails, or simply soaking in the stunning views, every moment on this tour is an adventure waiting to unfold.
What's included
Included
- Private transportation
- Banff National Park Entrance Fee
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Lower Spiral Tunnels Viewpoint
The Lower Spiral Tunnel Viewpoint, located in Yoho National Park, British Columbia, offers a unique and fascinating glimpse into the engineering marvel of the Canadian Pacific Railway's Spiral Tunnels. Constructed in the early 20th century to address the steep gradients of the Kicking Horse Pass, these tunnels are a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance.
15 minutes here · Admission included
Field
Natural Bridge is an impressive natural rock formation that spans the flow of the Kicking Horse River west of Field, where the slower-moving waters from the Field valley flats begin their descent through a canyon to be joined by the Amiskwi River. The Natural Bridge lookout presents visitors with the opportunity to view the formation from a variety of different vantage points, with interpretive displays explaining the physical processes at work. The bridge can easily be reached by car just 3km (1.9 miles) from Field on Emerald Lake Road.
30 minutes here
Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, British Columbia, is a stunning alpine lake renowned for its vibrant emerald green waters, caused by fine glacial silt. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies, including Mount Burgess and Wapta Mountain, the lake offers a breathtaking backdrop. The 5.2-kilometer Emerald Lake Trail provides easy access for hikers to enjoy panoramic views. Canoeing and kayaking are popular in summer, while winter transforms the area into a haven for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The historic Emerald Lake Lodge offers cozy accommodations and dining with spectacular views. Rich in biodiversity, the area is home to diverse flora and fauna, including wildflowers, elk, deer, and various bird species. Easily accessible from the town of Field, Emerald Lake is a prime destination for nature lovers and photographers, offering serene and picturesque landscapes year-round.
30 minutes here
Takakkaw Falls, located in Yoho National Park, British Columbia, is one of Canada's highest and most spectacular waterfalls, plunging 373 meters (1,224 feet) in a dramatic cascade. The name "Takakkaw" is derived from the Cree word for "magnificent," an apt description of this awe-inspiring natural wonder. The falls are fed by the Daly Glacier, part of the Waputik Icefield, ensuring a powerful flow, especially in late spring and early summer during peak meltwater season. The base of the falls offers a close-up view of the thundering water and a cool mist, creating a refreshing experience on warm days. Takakkaw Falls is not only a photographer's dream but also a popular spot for hikers, with trails like the Iceline Trail providing stunning vistas of the falls and surrounding landscape.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Lake Louise
Lake Louise, located in Banff National Park, Alberta, is famed for its stunning turquoise waters and the majestic Victoria Glacier backdrop. The lake, situated at an elevation of 1,750 meters (5,741 feet), offers a picturesque alpine setting. Its vibrant color comes from glacial silt. A hub for outdoor activities, Lake Louise features canoeing, hiking, and in winter, ice skating and skiing at the nearby Lake Louise Ski Resort. The Lake Agnes Tea House Trail provides rewarding views and a cozy spot for refreshments. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a historic hotel on the lake's edge, offers luxurious accommodations and dining with spectacular views. Wildlife such as grizzly bears and elk are commonly seen in the area.
60 minutes here
Banff
The town of Banff, nestled within Banff National Park in Alberta, is a charming and bustling mountain community renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant tourism scene. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences. Banff Avenue, the town’s main street, is lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries, providing a lively atmosphere. The Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity hosts numerous events and performances, enriching the town's cultural landscape.
60 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Banff Explorer™
Know before you go
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Travel Time is Included on the total duration
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 18 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
4 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
18 verified traveler reviews for Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great tour to Lake Louise with Joey!
Our tour guide Joey was amazing! He went above and beyond to make our experience great! He went out of his way to take photos of us and also joined us on a hike to Johnston Canyon. I would highly recommend booking this tour with Joey!
Response from the operator: Thank you, Ashley, for your amazing feedback! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed the tour and that Joey made your experience even better. It’s wonderful to know you had a great time exploring Banff and connecting with such friendly faces along the way. We’re always here to make your adventures memorable. Thank you for exploring Banff with us! Warm regards, The Banff Explorer™ Team
via Tripadvisor
I can’t believe that before going back to school we will be having a fabulous time to visit the beauty of Banff.
Our first ever road trip to Banff and it was amazing experience! A place to remember Moraine lake and Lake Louise plus going to Lake Minnewanka is fantastic! Thanks for a great trip. Trip advisor made it possible for us to take easy in going to prominent lakes.
Response from the operator: Hi Stephie, We're thrilled to hear you had an amazing road trip to Banff! Visiting Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, and Lake Minnewanka are definitely unforgettable experiences. Thank you for supporting our local business! If you enjoyed your time, we'd love if you referred us to friends and family. Safe travels back to school! Thank you for exploring Banff with us! Warm regards, The Banff Explorer™ Team
via Tripadvisor
Amazing experience!
It was a great and memorable experience to be able to explore lake Louise and specially Moraine lake whom is available only for private tour. My family and friends had amazing and wonderful experience with the Banff Explorer nothing but positive words specially to our very friendly driver/host Jules he is amazing didn't rush us always gives us extra little time to explore. I would definitely recommend Banff Explorer if your looking for a worth it private tour! 👍👍👍
Response from the operator: Thank you, Emilie, for sharing your amazing experience with us! We’re thrilled to hear you and your loved ones had such a memorable time exploring Lake Louise and Moraine Lake with Jules as your guide. Your recommendation means a lot—support like yours helps keep our local business thriving. If you enjoyed your experience, we'd be delighted if you referred us to your friends and family. Thank you for exploring Banff with us! Warm regards, The Banff Explorer™ Team
via Tripadvisor
Definitely, Banff is one of the places in Canada to visit.
My wife and I and our kids had the most amazing experience going to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. The bus shuttle was comfortable and the driver was very friendly.Views that we went to are astonishing. We will definitely be back next year!
Response from the operator: Dear Haidee, Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We're thrilled to hear that your family had such a memorable experience visiting Moraine Lake and Lake Louise with us. Our team takes pride in providing a friendly and comfortable service. We look forward to welcoming you back next year! If you enjoyed your experience, we'd appreciate any referrals to friends and family. Thank you for exploring Banff with us! Warm regards, The Banff Explorer™ Team
via Tripadvisor
Fun trip at Yoho
Sir Joey is amazing and very accommodating. He made sure that everyone is comfortable and satisfied. He is also a very driver.
Response from the operator: Kennylyn, thank you for your fantastic feedback! We're thrilled to hear you enjoyed your trip to Yoho and that Sir Joey added to your experience. Your support means a lot to our local business. If you had a great time, we’d love for you to share your memories with friends and family. Thank you for exploring Banff with us! Warm regards, The Banff Explorer™ Team
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 8 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 6
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Who runs this experience
Operated by Banff Explorer™, who run 13 experiences we rank across 3 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 57.4.
See everything Banff Explorer™ runsWhy this scores 68
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Calgary.
How much does Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer cost?
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Prices start at $439 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Calgary usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer take?
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Plan for about 8 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Calgary is not rushed.
Is Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 68 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 18 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Calgary, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 8-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer?
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Around 6 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Calgary can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Calgary and add a light layer if any part of the 8-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Calgary within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Calgary?
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On Outty we rank every Calgary experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Discover Banff National Park - Premium Day Trip, Day of Dinosaurs & Hoodoos from Calgary to Drumheller Badlands, Drumheller & Hoodoos Day Trip from Calgary, Explore the Badlands. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Calgary?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Calgary?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer?
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Included: Private transportation; Banff National Park Entrance Fee; and In-vehicle air conditioning. Not included: Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 19 listed pickup locations in and around Calgary. Be ready about 15 minutes before the start time.
What languages is Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Specialized infant seats are available; and Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Calgary. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Lake Louise with Banff Explorer?
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Across 18 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, photo opportunities, good for families. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
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