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Private Tour to Lake Louse: More Than Just Crowds
Tour Highlights
- Personalized 8-12 hours tour experience
- Flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences
- Off the beaten path destinations to avoid crowds
- Friendly, easy-going guide who values humor and respect for freedom of speech
- Respect for your hiking pace and skills (no 2.20 marathon runners please)
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Lake Louise and Moraine are two of the most breathtakingly beautiful spots in the Canadian Rockies. Both lakes have an almost surreal turquoise color that will leave you wondering if you're looking at a painting or the real deal. But the beauty of these lakes is only the beginning. The surrounding area is full of adventure and wonder.
Hiking trails abound, with everything from easy walks to more challenging climbs that will take you up to incredible vistas. And if you're not feeling like trekking on foot, there are plenty of opportunities to take in the views from a bike, canoe, or even a helicopter. Just be sure to hold on tight if you choose the latter option!
Louise and Moraine Lakes: 2023 UPDATES
If you're planning a trip to Banff National Park to visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, it's important to note that personal vehicles are restricted from accessing Moraine Lake Road year-round. Parks Canada shuttles, Roam Public Transit, and big commercial buses are permitted from June to mid-October. This is due to the high demand to reach Moraine Lake, which far exceeds the available parking, resulting in the parking lot remaining full nearly 24 hours a day during the peak summer season of 2022! At Lake Louise Lakeshore, parking is also limited and the lot fills up quickly, sometimes even before 7 am.
Booking your shuttle in advance is required, and paid parking is required at the Lake Louise Lakeshore day use area in all public stalls. 40% of tickets are released for reservation in the spring. The remaining 60% of seats are released for reservation 48 hours in advance of departure. Fees are $8 for an adult and $4 for a senior.
Our New Tour Services for Lake Louise and Lake Moraine
In light of the recent restrictions on commercial vehicles accessing Lake Moraine and Lake Louise, our tour services have been modified to accommodate these new regulations. Our priority is to ensure the protection of the natural habitats and wildlife in these areas by reducing our impact as much as possible!
Therefore, we have limited our services to drop-off and pick-up options at Lake Louise and shuttle parking / e-bikes for access to Lake Moraine. Instead, our tours will focus on the less crowded and less accessible areas of Yoho, Icefield, and Radium. This allows you to experience the beauty of the Canadian Rockies while minimizing their impact on the environment!
For Lake Moraine, our tours offer an e-bike option for visitors who want to explore the area at their own pace, including sunrise tours (shuttles operate only during the daytime). By providing these sustainable transportation alternatives, we hope to encourage visitors to consider the impact of their activities on the environment and to make choices that are eco-friendly.
Louise and Moraine Lakes: Tour Options
Banff to Louise Must-See
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Experience the best of the Canadian Rockies. With a flexible itinerary tailored to your preferences, you'll have the opportunity to visit some of the most picturesque sites along the way, such as Bow Falls, Castle Mountain viewpoint, and Johnston Canyon.
The drive covers around 135km (84 miles) and takes approximately 2 hours, but with the flexibility to stop at your desired sites, it's a journey that is best enjoyed at your own pace. The route takes you through charming towns and villages like Canmore and Banff, and offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys along the way.
Full-day tour. Private. Flexible.
Up to 4 people. No hidden costs.
From Louise to Yoho
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Join an unforgettable journey from Lake Louise to Yoho National Park. This private tour is tailored to your preferences, offering the flexibility to stop at some of the most picturesque sites along the way.
You'll start your journey by exploring the iconic Lake Louise and its turquoise waters, surrounded by towering mountains.Then, you'll continue your journey towards Yoho, passing through breathtaking landscapes and quaint mountain towns. Along the way, you'll stop at the majestic Takakkaw Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Canada, and witness the beauty of the Emerald Lake, with its vibrant green waters and stunning mountain backdrop.
Full-day tour. Private. Flexible.
Up to 4 people. No hidden costs.
Lake Louise Hike
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Embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure in the Lake Louise area, where stunning alpine scenery awaits you. With a flexible itinerary tailored to your fitness level and interests, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful trails in the Canadian Rockies, including the Plain of Six Glaciers, Larch Valley, or Lake Agnes.
Your knowledgeable guide will take you on the best routes for your skill level and interests, and can provide information on the local flora and fauna, geology, and history of the area. Choose from a simple to a challenging route, and let our experienced guides take care of all the details.
Full-day tour. Private. Flexible.
Up to 4 people. No hidden costs.
Lake Louise and Yoho Private Tour
- Private tailor-made tour for 8+ hours
- No strict itinerary or tight schedule
- Kia Sedona 2019 minivan with 5+2 passenger seats
- Group price: from $450 (winter deal)
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Experience Lake Louise Without the Crowds: Tips and Secrets
Lake Louise is undoubtedly a stunning spot, but let's face it, it's also a hotspot for tourists. If you're someone who loves being surrounded by crowds of people, then Lake Louise is your jam. But if you're like me and prefer your nature with a side of solitude, then listen up because I have some secrets to share!
First things first, most people tend to stick within the first 100 meters of the shoreline or popular trails. It's like they're afraid of venturing too far and discovering something truly magical! So, take a few extra steps and explore the unbeaten paths. Who knows, you might even run into some wildlife along the way.
Secondly, forget the early morning wake-up call. Sure, everyone thinks they'll be the only one there if they arrive at the crack of dawn, but that's simply not true. Instead, consider a late afternoon or early evening visit. By then, most of the crowds have cleared out, and you'll have more space to bask in the beauty of Lake Louise without someone's selfie stick invading your personal space.
So, there you have it folks, two simple tips for enjoying Lake Louise like a pro. And hey, if all else fails, just bring a giant inflatable unicorn and float away from the crowds!
12 Fun Facts About Lake Louise, Moraine, and the Surrounding Area
- Lake Louise was named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. No wonder it's so majestic!
- Moraine Lake is surrounded by ten mountain peaks, making it feel like you're in a real-life postcard.
- The area is so beautiful that it's no wonder it's a popular spot for movies and TV shows. In fact, scenes from the movie "The Revenant" were filmed in the area. So, keep your eyes peeled for Leonardo DiCaprio!
- Moraine Lake is actually a glacially-fed lake, which means the water is icy cold. It's a great place to cool off after a long hike or a heated argument with your significant other.
- The area surrounding Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is home to some of the most incredible wildlife in Canada. You can spot grizzly bears, elk, and even the elusive mountain goat. Just remember to keep a safe distance, and maybe invest in some bear spray.
- Moraine Lake's distinctive blue-green color comes from the rock flour (tiny particles of ground-up rock) that's suspended in the water. It's like drinking a mineral water, but without the calories.
- Lake Louise is not only beautiful but also deep – it reaches a depth of 70 meters (230 feet) at its deepest point. That's like stacking two giraffes on top of each other and throwing them into the water. Please don't try that at home.
- The Icefields Parkway, which runs between Lake Louise and Jasper, is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. It stretches for 232 kilometers and offers breathtaking views of glaciers, lakes, and mountains at every turn.
- The Victoria Glacier, which is visible from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, is one of the most iconic sights in Banff National Park. It's also one of the most easily accessible glaciers in the park.The glaciers in the area are retreating at an alarming rate due to climate change. According to Parks Canada, the Victoria Glacier has lost about half its mass since 1890. Maybe try leaving your car at home and taking e-bike instead.
- There are over 200 hiking trails in the area, so put on your walking shoes and get ready to explore.
- Lake Louise is a popular spot for ice skating in the winter months, with an outdoor rink that's larger than the average hockey rink. It's like playing hockey, but with more graceful falls and less fighting.
- The nearby town of Banff was the first national park in Canada, established way back in 1885. It's also home to some pretty great pubs and restaurants.
Great Hikes around Lake Louise
1. Plain of Six Glaciers: 5 hours, 15 km, 600-meters
The Plain of Six Glaciers hike is a must-do for anyone visiting Lake Louise who loves geology, glaciers, and the power of nature. The hike begins at the Lake Louise viewpoint and takes you along the beautiful shoreline to the Teahouse (the second one, not the more well-known one). The trail is moderately challenging, measuring 8 km and featuring an elevation gain of 600 meters, with a long gradual incline leading to the Plain of Six Glaciers and back. The views are breathtaking, but it's important to remember to wear proper shoes as this is a long walk and you should be in good physical condition.
Additionally, the Plain of Six Glaciers hike offers a unique opportunity to see the effects of climate change on glaciers. The glaciers in the area have been receding at a significant rate, and it is a sobering reminder of the impact humans have on the planet. Along the trail, hikers can also spot a variety of wildlife such as mountain goats, bears and marmots. The highlight of the hike is the Teahouse, which offers a cozy respite and a chance to refuel with a warm meal or a cup of tea. Overall, the Plain of Six Glaciers hike is a must-do for anyone visiting Lake Louise, offering a chance to experience the beauty of nature while also gaining an appreciation for the fragility of our planet.
2. The Big Beehive: 5 hours, 11 km, 800-meters
Great hike to one of the best viewpoints of Lake Louise. The hike begins with a busy trail to the Teahouse, but as you continue on, the trail becomes quieter, allowing for a more peaceful and solitary experience. The elevation gain can be challenging for those who are not experienced hikers, but the spectacular views from the top make the effort well worth it. For those feeling adventurous, the Devil's Thumb trail offers a more strenuous and challenging option, but with even more breathtaking views. The trails are best in summer and early fall.
3. Fairview Lookout: 1 hour, 2.5 km, 170-meters
Truly a breathtaking experience that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty of Banff National Park. The trail is a challenging climb that takes you through a forested path, leading you to a steep rocky path that will test your stamina. But as you reach the top, the views that await you are absolutely worth the effort. The panoramic vistas of the lake Louise and the majestic glaciers surrounding it are truly mesmerizing. The turquoise color of the lake and the snow-capped peaks in the background create a perfect contrast and make for an unforgettable sight.
IMPORTANT: Parking lot could be full at 6 a.m. already... There's shuttles to the lake, but you need to book tickets in advance.
About Travel Real Canada
Travel Real Canada is a family-owned tour company that specializes in providing private tours of beautiful Alberta. We pride ourselves on their personalized and intimate approach to tour guiding, with the goal of making each tour a unique and memorable experience for their clients.
We offer a wide range of tour options, including hiking and sightseeing tours, all tailored to the needs and interests of their clients. With the private tours, we are able to adapt to the customer's needs and can make sure that everyone has a great time.
Their tour guides are knowledgeable, passionate, and friendly, with a deep understanding of the local area and its history. They are able to provide interesting and informative commentary on the sights and landmarks visited during the tour. The guides are also able to make the tour a fun and interactive experience for the whole family.
Travel Real Canada is committed to environmental conservation, using eco-friendly transportation such as fuel-economy vehicles or bicycles whenever possible. We also make sure that their tours are safe, using well-maintained equipment and well-planned itineraries. With the company's commitment to customer satisfaction, safety, and environmental conservation, you can be sure that your tour with them will be an unforgettable one.
