Lake Louise, Banff Gondola, & Yoho National Park 2 Day Tour

Planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies? If you’re looking for a way to soak up some of Banff and Yoho’s most iconic sights without the hassle of navigation, this 2-day tour from Banff ToDo offers an enticing option. While not an all-encompassing wilderness adventure, it strikes a good balance between guided ease and stunning scenery, making it especially appealing for first-timers or those short on time.

What we love about this tour is its thoughtfully curated itinerary, the quality of guides—particularly Tammy and Ivan, who are celebrated for their knowledge and humor—and the chance to see gems like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (or Marble Canyon in winter). The value for money is also notable, given the number of highlights packed into just two days.

However, a word of caution: the tour’s timing means you won’t get hours to linger at each spot. If you’re someone who prefers to soak in the views for as long as possible, you may feel a bit rushed. Still, for those seeking a comprehensive snapshot of Banff and Yoho’s most famous landscapes with a friendly guide, this tour is a solid pick.

Perfect for travelers who want an overview of the area without the stress of driving or planning, and who appreciate guided expertise combined with spectacular scenery.

Good To Know

• Well-structured itinerary covers major highlights of Banff and Yoho in two days.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and humor.
• Incredible scenery from lakes, waterfalls, canyons, and mountain vistas.
• Value for money considering the included attractions and transportation.
• Limited free time at each stop might feel rushed for some travelers.
• Seasonal adjustments ensure you visit the best available sites, like Moraine Lake or Marble Canyon.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

What’s Included and How It Adds Value

For $136 per person, this tour covers transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle across both days, led by a local guide who doubles as your driver. This is a significant convenience, especially in a sprawling area like the Rockies, where self-driving can be daunting for visitors unfamiliar with the roads or local driving laws.

The tour includes admission to Moraine Lake from June 1 to October 13, or Marble Canyon from October 14 to May 31, ensuring you’ll see one of the most famous lakes or a winter highlight in the canyon—whichever is seasonally available. Plus, if you visit in winter, crampons are provided for the Icewalk at Marble Canyon, making sure you can explore safely even on icy trails.

Day 1: From Johnston Canyon to Banff Town

Your journey begins with a scenic hike at Johnston Canyon, renowned for its well-maintained trails and striking waterfalls. According to reviews, the 75-minute walk is manageable and offers spectacular views. One reviewer mentioned that guides like Tammy and Ivan were not only professional but also entertaining, making what could be a strenuous walk feel more like an enjoyable adventure.

Next, you’ll pass Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka, where approximately 20 minutes is allocated for quick photos or a brief look. While not enough for a full exploration, it’s enough to appreciate their beauty and remember why they’re so beloved.

The free exploration and lunch stop in Banff Town is perfect for stretching your legs, browsing local shops, or grabbing a meal. Many reviews mention the charming streets and the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, visible from Surprise Corner. This spot is perfect for photos and appreciating the grandeur of the Rockies.

Half-Day Optional Activities: Gondola or Hot Springs

The tour offers a choice: Banff Gondola or Banff Upper Hot Springs (except from September 2 to December end, when the Hot Springs are closed for maintenance). The Gondola provides a sweeping 360-degree view from Sulphur Mountain, allowing you to truly see the Rockies stretched out before you. Reviewers like Maria appreciated guides who explained the landscape, making the ride both scenic and educational.

The alternative, Cave and Basin National Historic Site, offers a more relaxed experience, but the gondola tends to get the most praise for its panoramic views. The hot springs are a favorite for relaxation, but seasonal closure means timing is important.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Bow Falls and Scenic Walks

After the main attractions, a brief walk to Bow Falls offers a chance to see the water thundering over rocks, perfect for quick photos. Many reviewers appreciated the short, manageable stops—”just enough time to soak it in without feeling rushed,” as one put it.

Day 2: Iconic Lakes and Canyons

The second day shifts focus to Lake Louise, the crown jewel of the Rockies. At about 60 minutes, you’ll get a good look at the Fairmont Chateau and the lake’s stunning, glacier-fed waters. The reviews suggest that even in early May, the lake can still be partly frozen, but the scenic beauty remains undeniable.

Moraine Lake, available from June 1 to October 13, is the highlight for many—its vivid blue waters and the backdrop of Valley of the Ten Peaks make for outstanding photographs. Travelers like Maria noted that the guides provided plenty of information, enriching the experience.

If Moraine Lake isn’t accessible, the alternative is Marble Canyon, a dramatic river gorge with turquoise waters and towering cliffs. Many reviews describe it as an impressive winter alternative, with some guests mentioning the thrill of walking with crampons on the icy trail.

Next, you’ll visit Lake Louise Village for lunch and some light exploration. Many say this is a perfect spot to relax before heading to Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, often called the “must-see” of the Rockies. Its serenity and striking color are hard to beat.

Finally, a short stop at Natural Bridge offers a quick but impressive view of natural rock formations carved by the river. If time permits, travelers can opt to stroll along Banff Avenue or revisit Bow Falls.

What Reviewers Say About the Tour

Multiple reviews highlight the expertise of guides like Tammy, Ivan, Mandy, and Mike, who are praised for their friendly attitude and deep knowledge of the area. One reviewer, Kenny, pointed out that the second-day bus was unclean and crowded, which slightly affected comfort, but the overall experience remained positive.

Many appreciated how the tour balanced sightseeing with manageable walking and travel times. For instance, Aine from Ireland mentioned that guides knew their facts well, though some found the pace a little quick at certain spots—Moraine Lake and Bow Falls, in particular.

Value for money gets consistent praise. Considering the included attractions, transportation, and guided insights, many feel they received more than their money’s worth—especially compared to the cost of visiting these sites independently.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Be prepared for the timed nature of visits; you won’t get hours at each stop, so plan your expectations accordingly.
• Seasonality matters: Moraine Lake may be frozen in early spring or late fall, and the hot springs are closed from September to December for maintenance.
• Dress appropriately: Layers and sturdy shoes are essential, especially in winter when crampons are provided.
• If you wish to extend your stay or explore more, the tour can assist with hotel bookings—just contact the provider afterward.
• The group size can range from 7 to 55 passengers, but reviews note that the second day might involve larger groups, which could reduce intimacy and comfort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want to see the best of Banff and Yoho without the hassle of planning or driving. It’s perfect if you prefer a guided experience with reliable transportation and informative commentary. If you like efficient itineraries and want to maximize your sightseeing in a short amount of time, this is a strong choice.

However, if your priority is to spend as long as possible at each site or explore hidden corners, you might find this tour a bit rushed. It’s best suited for those comfortable with quick stops and eager to tick off major sights in a scenic, organized format.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour of Lake Louise, Banff Gondola, and Yoho National Park offers a well-rounded introduction to the Canadian Rockies. With a mix of scenic lakes, waterfalls, canyons, and mountain vistas, it delivers a memorable experience without the stress of self-driving or extensive planning.

The strength of this tour lies in its knowledgeable guides, who make the scenery come alive with engaging stories and insights. The included attractions, from Moraine Lake to Emerald Lake, are some of the most photogenic locations in the Rockies, making every moment feel worthwhile.

While it may feel a little rushed at times, the value, comfort, and breadth of sights make it a worthwhile option for those looking for a guided adventure. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or travelers with limited time who still want a comprehensive taste of Banff and Yoho’s natural wonders.

In the end, this tour combines the highlights with expert guidance, ensuring you leave with plenty of photos, stories, and memories—not to mention a deep appreciation for these stunning landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it generally is, especially since the walks like Johnston Canyon are manageable. However, very young children or those with mobility issues may want to check specific trail difficulty or discuss with the provider beforehand.

What should I wear?
Layered clothing is recommended, especially if visiting in early spring or fall. Sturdy walking shoes are a must, and winter visitors should be prepared for cold temperatures—even with provided crampons.

Can I choose between the Gondola and Hot Springs?
Yes, you can select the activity you prefer during booking. The Gondola offers panoramic mountain views, while the Hot Springs provide relaxation, but note the Hot Springs are closed from September 2 to December.

What if Moraine Lake is frozen or inaccessible?
The tour switches to an alternative attraction—Marble Canyon—which is equally impressive, especially in winter with its icy turquoise waters.

How long are the stops at each attraction?
Expect roughly 60 minutes at lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, with shorter times at waterfalls, canyons, and towns. The itinerary is designed for quick but quality visits.

Will I have free time to explore on my own?
Yes, there are short free exploration periods, particularly in Banff Town and Lake Louise Village. However, some reviewers felt they’d like longer stops at certain sites.

What transportation is used?
A comfortable, air-conditioned bus that varies in size from 7 to 55 passengers, depending on the day and group.

Is it possible to customize this tour?
Some arrangements, like hotel bookings, are available—just contact the provider after booking to discuss options.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in case your plans change.

Does this tour include meals?
No, meals are not included, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food during your stops.

This 2-day trip offers a compelling way to experience some of Canada’s most stunning scenery with expert guides and good value. Whether you’re after iconic lakes, mountain vistas, or simply want a hassle-free way to see the Rockies, it’s a choice that combines practicality with breathtaking beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: