The Legendary Lakes

Louise, Moraine & Emerald. A premium, small-group escape to the three most breathtaking waters in the Canadian Rockies. We combine a feast for the eyes with active immersion, moving past the crowds to enjoy the changing colours and mountain vistas along the shoreline trails of each basin – including a full, guided loop of Emerald Lake. Enjoy guaranteed access to Moraine Lake and skip the public shuttle queues.

What to Expect - Itinerary & Experience:

Stop 1: Emerald Lake (Yoho, BC)

• The Activity: A 5.2km shoreline loop (mostly flat) around Emerald Lake – the "Jewel of Yoho." We head here first to experience the lake's vivid colours through active discovery, completing the day's longest trail before the midday rush arrives.
• Duration: 1.5–2 hours.

Stop 2: Natural Bridge (Yoho, BC)

• The Activity: A brief stop along Emerald Lake Road to observe the Kicking Horse River as it carves its way through solid rock.
• Duration: 15 mins.

Stop 3: Lake Louise (Banff, AB)

• 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.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.

Stop 4: Moraine Lake (Banff, AB)

• The Activity: At Moraine Lake, we combine a stroll along the forest-fringed lakeshore (up to 2.5km return) with a short climb up the "Rockpile" trail (350m each way). This provides a dual perspective: close-up views from the water’s edge, and the iconic, elevated vista of the stunning Ten Peaks and turquoise waters from the Rockpile perch. On our return toward Banff, we have the option for a quick pitstop at Lake Louise Village.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.
• 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 vehicles or worry about shuttle queues.

The Return – via the 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.

Premium Transit: Relax in the exclusive comfort of our vehicle while your guide handles all navigation, storytelling, and park logistics.

Lunch: We pause at a scenic vantage point for a midday picnic, providing a locally-sourced grazing spread of premium charcuterie, cheeses, and seasonal accompaniments (please check our FAQ for additional, important details).

Key Details (From Banff/Canmore):

• Duration: ~8 Hours.
• Format: 100% Private (Maximum 11 participants).
• Pickup & Drop-off: Door-to-door service, starting and ending the day at your preferred Banff* or Canmore location. *Note: Banff pickups are only available from April 1st onwards.*
• Booking cutoff: 24 hours before departure.
• Activity Level: Easy to Moderate.
• Languages: English primary; Spanish and Mandarin Chinese delivery also available.
• Itinerary Note: This tour is only available between June 1st and mid-October each year (exact dates depend on when Parks Canada closes access to Moraine Lake). Routes and destinations may vary based on participant preferences, fitness levels, real-time mountain conditions, and safety.
• Planning a multi-day stay? This journey pairs superbly with any of our Kananaskis guided hiking tours. Ideal for those who want to see the famous icons one day and go further off the beaten path the next. Speak to us about multi-tour preferred pricing!