Private: Banff's Glacial Lakes & Hidden History - From Calgary

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Bankhead Ghost Town

   The Activity: We begin with a gentle 1.1km loop through what remains of the early 20th-century town of Bankhead, taking an oft-overlooked step back in time to explore a different side of Banff’s past. Walking past the concrete foundations and old railway beds provides a stark historical contrast to the raw, protected mountain landscapes that dominate the rest of our day. Duration: 30 mins.

   30 minutes here · Admission included

2. Lake Minnewanka

   The Activity: At Minnewanka, we'll move past the parking lot adjacent crowds and walk along the lakeshore to the Stewart Canyon bridge – a flat, 3.2km in-and-out trail. This gives us an open, wind-swept perspective of Banff National Park's largest glacial lake before the midday heat. We then pass by Two Jack Lake to complete the Minnewanka Scenic Drive on our way to Lake Louise.

   75 minutes here · Admission included

3. Lake Louise

   The Activity: A visit to the most iconic basin in the range. We’ll move along the shoreline to reach the quieter vantage points of the lake and surrounding peaks, offering a better perspective of the Victoria Glacier and castle-like Fairmont Chateau. The in-and-out lakeshore trail is up to 4.6km in length, with nominal elevation gain.

   75 minutes here

4. Moraine Lake

   The Activity: At Moraine Lake, we combine a 2.5km in-and-out lakeshore walk with a short climb (350m each way) up "the Rockpile" for the best views of the stunning turquoise-blue lake and surrounding Ten Peaks – one of the most prized sights in all of Canada. We then have an optional brief pitstop at Lake Louise Village on our way back towards Banff town. Note: Because Moraine Lake Road is closed to all vehicles during the winter season (and to private, non-commercial vehicles year-round), this stop is only available between June and mid-October. Our van has the necessary permits for direct access during this window, so there is no need to change to a different shuttle.

   75 minutes here · Admission included

5. Bow Valley Parkway

   The Activity: Time permitting, we transition to the Bow Valley Parkway for part of the leg back toward Banff. A quieter and more relaxed alternative to the Trans-Canada Highway, this route offers a different perspective of the valley and more frequent wildlife sightings. Note: certain sections are subject to seasonal closures for wildlife and to create a vehicle free experience for cyclists; during these times, we utilize the most scenic accessible portions of the route.

   Pass by without stopping

Where it starts and ends

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

cmn, en, es

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 11 travelers per booking

Operated by

MOLARI Adventure Touring Co.

Know before you go

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Itinerary Note: exact routes, timings, and destinations may vary based on participant preferences, fitness levels, real-time mountain conditions, and safety.
• Child Seats: required by law for under 6yrs (≤18kg). Not provided; please bring your own if needed.
• Lunch is a grazing spread consisting of local meats, cheeses, and accompaniments or a deli-style lunch, depending on availability. We are unable to cater for specific dietary requirements or severe allergies; guests with specific nutritional needs are welcome to bring their own lunch.
• Personal Gear: Please bring a small daypack, sun protection, and a reusable water bottle (refills provided).
• Technical Gear: We provide hiking poles and microspikes/ice cleats if needed. USB-A charging ports are available in the van—please bring your own cable.
• Clothing & Footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots (insulated for winter) and adaptable layers (avoid cotton). Bring an extra base layer to change into for the return journey (especially in summer). Check weather conditions before departure.
• Waiver: required for all guests before departure.
• Flexibility & Changes: If you need to amend your date or start time, please message us directly as far in advance as possible, and we will do everything we can to accommodate your request. Depending on guide availability, we can usually be highly adaptable.
• Giving back: A portion of every journey is donated to a hand-picked charity supporting either environmental protection, Indigenous education, or animal welfare. You’ll have the opportunity to choose which cause your booking supports.

Photos