Banff Explorer: Highlights of Banff & Yoho Nat'l | Private Tour

Calgary, Canada

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10 hours

Mobile ticket

Offered in: English

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.

Duration: 15 minutes

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.

Duration: 30 minutes

Emerald Lake

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.

Duration: 1 hour

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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.

Duration: 1 hour

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake, located in Banff National Park, Alberta, is renowned for its striking turquoise waters, set against the backdrop of the Valley of the Ten Peaks. The lake’s vibrant color, caused by light reflecting off rock flour deposited by glaciers, is most intense in late June. At an elevation of about 1,885 meters (6,183 feet), it offers breathtaking alpine scenery. A popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, Moraine Lake features the Rockpile Trail, providing an iconic view known as the "Twenty Dollar View," once featured on Canadian currency. Canoeing on the serene waters offers a unique perspective of the majestic peaks surrounding the lake. The area is rich in wildlife, with frequent sightings of grizzly bears, moose, and various bird species. Accessibility is seasonal, with the road to Moraine Lake typically open from late May to early October. Its unparalleled beauty and serene ambiance make Moraine Lake a must-visit destination in the Canadian Rockies.

Duration: 1 hour

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.

Duration: 1 hour

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.

Duration: 2 hours