Banff National Park Guided Hike with Lunch
4.8
Banff National Park Guided Hike with Lunch
By Discover Banff Tours
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
About
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 13-99, max of 12 per group
Duration: 7h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More
- Certified hiking guide
- Use of hiking poles
- Return transport from Banff
- Pick up from the public bus parking located behind the Mount Royal Hotel.
- Packed lunch
What's not included- Gratuities
- Start:
- Mount Royal Hotel, 138 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1A7, CanadaAll guests must wait at the public bus parking located behind the Mount Royal Hotel at 138 Banff Ave. You must be ready 5 minutes prior to the 7:42am departure time.
End:This activity ends back at the meeting point. - Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3827CH- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Minimum age is 13 years and all children aged between 13 and 15 years of age must be accompanied by an adult and have a parent or guardian sign their waiver.
- Children aged 16 to 17 years old may go on the hike without an adult, but a parent must meet the guide in the morning to sign a waiver.
- Please be prepared for the mountain weather, it changes quickly. To ensure that you enjoy the day, please wear/bring: lightweight hiking pants, a breathable shirt (not cotton!), a warm layer (like a fleece jacket, a waterproof jacket, a hat and sunglasses, hiking shoes (sturdy, ideally waterproof or water resistant hiking boots or shoes - trainers or runners are okay, but boots are better), a small backpack, a water bottle, sunscreen, bug spray and your camera.
- Child prices are not available, adult prices apply to all travelers
- Early/late season itinerary changes may apply, please inquire at the time of booking
- Please note: due to changing weather conditions throughout the year, your hiking route may be modified for safety or accessibility of trails
- Included packed lunch; kindly make your meal selection by contacting our reservations team.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 12 travelers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3827CH
From
$138.90
per adult
Select date and travelers
Similar experiences
Buy it with
Top rated
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- Morningbell50 contributionsA must do.Absolutely amazing!! Really good walk, and a Jeff, the guide was spot on. Nice to have the the knowledge and good photo spots. Definitely recommend itWritten March 20, 2025
- amberlynn07090 contributionsA Must-Do!We did the Discover Banff and Its Wildlife tour and it was INCREDIBLE! Our tour guide, Chloe, was super personable and taught us some fascinating facts about the area. We saw unbelievable scenery and even some wildlife.Written March 14, 2025
- Steve T0 contributionsWalk in the snowPicked up from Banff train station and we went on a wonderfull and beautiful drive and walk. Magical winter wonderland . Highly recommend and go slow. It is not for the unfit. They take it slow and hides are brilliant and service is excellent. Just remember it is a hike and it is up and down a man made path but it is lots of steeps. Go do it especially with kids it is brilliant.Written March 14, 2025
- Wanderer8174690 contributionsFantastic tour with a friendly and knowledgeable guide.Great tour of the Johnston Canyon. Would highly recommend visiting. The guide had excellent knowledge and was so friendly. Transport to and from the canyon included in the price. Walking poles and crampons included also. Pick the 8.30 tour if possible as the canyon is very quiet at this time. As we were heading back to the minibus it was getting noticeably busier. Our guide, Anick, was fabulous. Charming, friendly and super knowledgeable. She made the trip an excellent experience.Written March 12, 2025
- K208IHmariag0 contributionsStunning!!Tina was great! Learned a lot and she kept our 10 yr old entertained throughout the entire trail. Beautiful place and experience.Written March 10, 2025
- nicole_n1811230 contributionsUnique winter nature experienceThis was a super unique experience, and getting to see the canyon at night was very cool. We were the only ones there, which is pretty rare for such a popular area. We saw some wildlife (fox) and the stars were incredible. Chloe was an awesome guide who shared many interesting facts about the canyon and Banff's history. She made sure everyone navigated the ice/snow safely and the tour pace was just right. Would recommend to anyone seeking to explore the canyon during the winter months!Written February 25, 2025
- BohemianChelle0 contributionsAmazing viewsGreat way to see key sights such as Lake Louise and Emerald Lake with many extra picturesque stops along the way. Georgia was a lovely, knowledgeable tour guide. My only down side was wishing I could spend more time in Lake Louise and Emerald Lake but overall an excellent must do tour.Written February 23, 2025
- lukegY4242XR0 contributionsAmazing Johnston canyon tourTour was amazing tour guide set a good pace everyone could follow which allowed good photos, provide great and I depth information about Johnston canyon, would recommend.Written February 20, 2025
- Paulo M0 contributionsFantastic outdoor experienceSnow shoeing at the paint pot was a great way to experience the park in winter time, Our tour guide Anik was fantastic, she was knowledgeable and entertaining. She went out of her way to make sure we were having a good time not only in the tour but during our stay in Banff.Written February 18, 2025
- 746ceria0 contributionsAmazing tripThis trip was amazing. Went to places we would not have been able to get to without a car (and would never have thought of going to) and lunch at the Emerald Lake lodge was fantastic. So much snow and the scenery at every stop was picture postcard perfect. Emma was a great tour guide and told us lots about the places we visited and the history of Banff.Written February 11, 2025
- T1004ZWlisad0 contributionsLisa’s 60th Birthday AdventureThis tour was just so fun and Jake made it a truly memorable hike. It is my first time coming to Banff and I will be back! I would recommend this evening ice walk to anyone.Written February 9, 2025
- 763nelliek0 contributionsBest tour guide in BanffWe had the joy of going on the lake Louis tour with our guide Eli. It was a small group of us 4 and 1 other lovely lady. This was one of the best experiences we have ever had. Eli was incredibly knowledgeable, engaging and friendly. We were taken to lots of incredible stops that we wouldn’t have stopped at or known about if we hadn’t of done this tour. The flow of the day was perfect, never once did we feel rushed. We can’t rave about it enough and will be recommending to all our family and friends.Written February 8, 2025
- 828laceyy0 contributionsAwesome tour!Awesome tour. Guide Neal (sp?) was very knowledgeable, accommodating and personable. A beautiful walk /tour but we also got history, science and fun facts along the way. Did the morning tour and it wasn’t busy at all! Very Chilly but if dressed appropriately, you should be ok. Scenery was amazing and breathtaking not only in the walk but also in the drive. Saw ice climbers. Maple cookies and hot chocolate at the top. Highly recommend the tour and definitely with this company.Written February 8, 2025
- MontrealMan490 contributionsCanada’s beauty and world-class access to natureAmong Canada’s most beautiful national parks, Banff National Park is incredible to visit at any time. The village of Banff, Banff Sunshine and Lake Louise ski resorts, Lake Moraine, as well as the numerous walks and hikes and glacial lakes can occupy a visitor for weeks. Allow at least four days to discover the Banff and Lake Louise area. Easy-to-modest hiking in Johnston Canyon and Marble Canyon, visiting Banff, skiing (Norquay, Sunshine, Lake Louise) and walking or skating or kayaking on Lake Louise are popular activities. TIP: these areas get very crowded, so to miss the crowds start as early as possible… For foreigners visiting Canada for the first time, I’d propose a 3-4-week itinerary with stops in Montreal/Quebec City/Charlevoix (1 week); Banff National Park (4 days); Toronto/Niagara Falls (3 days); Vancouver/Vancouver island (1 week), Halifax/Cabot Trail (4 days).Written February 1, 2025
- natserr890 contributionsJohnston canyon Adventure!Great tour! Johnston canyon is spectacular in winter. Jake, the guide, made it even more special, with lovely recommendations and explanations. Best tour so far! Thanks, I definitely recommend it and be back in summer!Written January 31, 2025
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.8
81 reviews
Excellent
72
Very good
5
Average
1
Poor
0
Terrible
3
Sandra S
86 contributions
We had a fantastic experience on a hike to Consolation Lakes starting at Lake Moraine.
Max was an excellent guide and did a wonderful job helping those of us who were less experienced at hiking ( like myself). He was friendly and by the end of the trip all 11 of us had a wonderful time getting to know each other while enjoying some stunning views. I would highly recommend this tour especially for the novice hiker though the company does offer other hiking tours for more experienced hikers
Max was an excellent guide and did a wonderful job helping those of us who were less experienced at hiking ( like myself). He was friendly and by the end of the trip all 11 of us had a wonderful time getting to know each other while enjoying some stunning views. I would highly recommend this tour especially for the novice hiker though the company does offer other hiking tours for more experienced hikers
Written August 9, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hey,
Thank you so much for sharing your fantastic experience hiking to Consolation Lakes with Max as your guide! Whether you're a novice or an experienced hiker, we aim to offer a range of experiences to suit all levels of adventure.
Thank you for your recommendation, and if you ever decide to venture out for another hiking adventure, we'd be thrilled to have you join us again!
Written August 23, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Debajeet M
Dubai, United Arab Emirates34 contributions
Aug 2024 • Couples
Did the Larch Valley trek which was tough but made easy by Discover Banff tour. We had two guides in Andy and Rob who made it look very comfortable. Andy was always at the back and while we were trailing the group , he kept on telling stories to keep us going. The views of the ten peaks at the top was amazing. We missed the larch season by two weeks but it is still worth it. We asked to do the rock pile trail to start with and got some beautiful pictures of the moraine lake. We exceeded the time by more than 90 minutes but nobody was complaining. Now that we have completed two hikes including the Stanley glacier, will do the remaining hikes with Discover Banff tours next year.
Written September 6, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
soccerdeb
ohio248 contributions
Sep 2024 • Couples
We took the guided hike to Constellation Lake , picked up from our Banff hotel at 730 am and returning about 4 pm. Georgia was our guide and she was personable and a joy. Traveled to Moraine Lake for the start of our hike, and except for a few boulders and rocks to traverse in the beginning, it is an easy, gradual climb to the small but beautiful setting. Great , fresh made sandwiches for lunch then a return to Moraine lake with enough time to climb Rockpile viewpoint or walk the shoreline. There is a small grab and go cafe and gift shop at the lake.
Written September 4, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Filomena j
Green Meadow, FL11 contributions
Our day started with parking issues. We went to the meeting point as instructed where we had to pay for parking. No problem but couldn’t believe that the daily rate was $72. We then arrived to the trailhead and it was extremely overcrowded with several large tour buses on the trail. the trail was narrow and started with many steep switchbacks. I got separated from my group. At a certain point I made the decision that it was unsafe for me to continue and I turned back. I am a hiker but did not feel safe under those circumstances. However, since I had to wait several hours for my group to return I was able to climb the Rock Pile for amazing views of Moraine Lake. I also walked the shoreline and had lunch. I thought the day was saved but alas upon return to the meeting spot I found a ticket on my windshield for not displaying a park pass. What does that mean? So this tour was definitely not as described or expected.
Written September 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We are glad to hear that you enjoyed the views of Moraine Lake and had a pleasant lunch.
We apologize for the challenges you faced. The Larch Valley hike does have a steep beginning, and we regret that you felt unsafe and had to turn back.
Regarding parking, we understand your frustration with the high daily rate, there are other parking options in Banff which are more affordable but unfortunately not directly at Mount Royal hotel. We are sorry to hear that this information was not communicated effectively.
Your feedback is valuable, and we will use it to improve our services. We hope to have the opportunity to provide you with a better experience on a future tour.
Sincerely,
DBT team
Written September 23, 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Geraldine M
Woking, UK7 contributions
Sep 2022
We booked a Discover Banff Tours guided walk through a third party. Unfortunately there was confusion over the start time (7:45 vs 8:00am) and we watched the bus drive away as we ran down the road. We called immediately at 8:00am and spoke to the supervisor but we were informed the bus couldn’t turn round. We asked if our booking could be moved to the following or another day with availability but this was refused and their only offer was for us to pay in full again and contact the third party based in England, not withstanding we were in Banff and we had already paid close to Ca$600 for the trip. We declined. We understand things can go wrong, but great companies try to help their clients when things don’t go to plan. In our experience, Discover Banff will not try to help and will place the full loss and burden of responsibility on you, their customer and we would therefore not recommend them to fellow travellers.
Written October 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello,
Thank you for the review.
All of our booking confirmations state to arrive 15 minutes before tour times starts. We did not have a contact number or email for you so we were not able to reach you before the tour time. Unfortunately, our guide waited as long as they could for you but as you arrived after the tour start time, the guide was not able to turn back after the tour started.
We apologize for your experience and hope the rest of your trip to Banff was still enjoyable.
Written October 26, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Warren B
5 contributions
Jun 2023
Tim was awesome as our guide for the Hike of the Plain of 6 Glaciers. He was patient, knowledgeable, entertaining and personable. This was a hard hike that led to the glaciers and Plain of Six Tea House where we had lunch. The views were spectacular starting with Lake Louise up to the glaciers. The group was awesome which made it that greater of a hike. We would recommend this hike as a must do. We went on June 16th and were surprised by snow that had just fallen a few days before. Please request Tim as your guide for this hike. You will not be disappointed. Recommended by 2 from N.C.
Written June 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hey Warren,
Thank you for sharing your experience with us! We're thrilled to hear that you had an awesome time on the Hike of the Plain of Six Glaciers with Tim as your guide.
The hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers is indeed a challenging one, but the stunning views along the way, from Lake Louise up to the glaciers, make it all worthwhile. The opportunity to visit the Plain of Six Tea House and have lunch there must have been a memorable experience.
Thank you for recommending this hike as a must-do. Your feedback is valuable, and we appreciate your recommendation to others who may be considering this adventure.
Written June 29, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Yuxi W
Braselton, GA2 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
It was a small group of about 12 people. We hiked the trail starting from Moraine Lake to twin Eiffel mountains. We had 2 beautiful guides who provided a lot of information about the area. The lunch provided is also great! The distance of about 5KM one way is about right. Overall, it was a good hike and highly recommend to others.
Written August 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AlanBurner
Sevenoaks District, United Kingdom44 contributions
Jun 2023 • Solo
Francis took a small walking group on an 8 km hike from Lake Morrain. Just nine of us. Very professionally led and hugely enjoyable with magnificent scenery. Francis led us at a reasonable pace and as it was quite steeply uphill provided regular water stops. Exhausting but so hlad I did it.
Written June 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hey Alan,
Thank you for your feedback and sharing your experience with us. We're thrilled to hear that you had a fantastic hike with Francis as your guide. The scenery at Moraine Lake truly is magnificent.
We appreciate your positive comments and are delighted that you found the hike both challenging and rewarding. We hope to have the opportunity to serve you again in the future and provide you with more memorable adventures.
Written June 22, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
andrewomahony23
Stockton Heath, UK140 contributions
Had a wonderful day on 5 September doing the hike up to Larch Valley from Moraine Lake. We were picked up from our hotel at 8 and arrived at the Lake around 9.45 (having made a bathroom stop in Lake Louise). Kelsey was a great guide making sure everyone kept together on the hike with frequent rest stops to ensure anyone who was lagging behind caught up. The hike itself was strenuous at the start with lots of switchbacks and elevation gain. When we got into the valley itself the views were simply stunning with the 10 peaks providing a fabulous backdrop for our lunch stop at 12. My wife and I hiked on a bit further whilst still in view of Kelsey to a small lake nearer Sentinel Pass. Kelsey provided plenty of information. Thank you Kelsey - you were great and made it a day to remember
Written September 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cervo F
1 contribution
Sep 2023 • Couples
Our guide Kelsey made the trip interesting, informative and relaxing. Set a pace that the slowest of our group was able to maintain as well, which was much appreciated, she took turns walking with each individual as well as carrying on a conversation. She was/is an excellent guide and I would not hesitate to return for any of the tours led by her.
Written October 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Kelsey, our excellent guide, made your trip interesting, informative, and accommodating to all. Her considerate pace and personal engagement are much appreciated. We look forward to hosting you on future tours led by her. Thank you for the kind words! 🚶♀️🗺️😊
Written October 11, 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Now I’m kinda confused. I booked a banff guided hike for a Saturday (June 1) which shows that that particular day is for Plain of 6 Glaciers/Lake Louis’s/Larch Valley/ moraine Lake. I called to confirm hike 1-877-565-9372 and was told the hiking trail for that date will be “to be determined” and I should call 48 hrs in Advance to confirm which particular hike will be scheduled for that day.
I booked on TripAdvisor
I was under the impression that when I booked this guided hike that it was definitely for the above mentioned trail but of course pending weather conditions.
Please clarify as our time in Banff Is limited and we were are really looking forward to this particular hike on that date (pending decent weather conditions). Thanks so much
Susan Fain
Written May 20, 2019
Hi Susan,
Thank you for your message.
Unfortunately depending on the year and conditions, our early season hikes (typically early to mid June) may still be snow covered and unsafe to hike. As a result, this is evaluated each year and we don't know whether we will be able to proceed with the scheduled hikes until closer to the day. As a result, we outline 'Early/late season itinerary changes may apply, please inquire at the time of booking' on this tour page on TripAdvisor.
If we can't access your scheduled hike to Larch Valley (our regular season Saturday hike) then the alternative is planned to be the Lake Minnewanka shoreline in Banff.
Please be assured that if we won't be proceeding with the regular season hikes in early June for when you are booked that the reservations team do reach out to every guest booked on these hikes to let them know in advance of any changes while there is still the option to change or cancel their reservation along with full details of the proposed hike we will be offering.
Also, if we're not operating our hike to this particular trail during your travel dates, it's only ever for safety reasons.
I hope this helps to answer your question.
Written May 22, 2019
Another Q. I noticed when I reserved our guided hike there was no confirmation or drop down box to choose the hike option. Is there a way to confirm the hike I booked?
Written May 13, 2019
Hi there, each of our hikes only operate on certain days (ie if you book a Monday hike it's to Larch Valley, Tuesdays to Consolation Lakes etc. You'll receive a confirmation email after booking (direct) or full details when booking (TripAdvisor) but we can also confirm this for you separately however you choose to book.
I don't want to ask for your personal details here, but if you don't mind sending the name on the reservation (or confirmation number, if you received it depending on how you booked) and phone us on 1(877) 565-9372 (sorry it won't let me include our email address here) then our team would be more than happy to confirm and send you a confirmation email.
Written May 14, 2019
Probably a silly Question but want to know if guide will be packing bear spray for the Larch Valley hike ..and should we also have some w us as well (I have read that some of banff’s trails require everyone to pack bear spray). Sorry but coming from a place where wildlife is quite benign (Hawaii) I’m a bit cautious. Thank you!
Written May 12, 2019
Hi there,
No question is silly! Our guide brings bear spray for all hikes, so there is no need to bring your own. You're also much safer joining this hike and being in a small group (and this trail in particular does have seasonal restrictions with minimum numbers due to bears).
We would certainly recommend carrying your own bear spray for any other hikes.
Written May 13, 2019
I have never been on a mountain hike, in Sept, can I get away wearing hiking shoes only or do I need hiking boots?
Written September 10, 2018
Hello,
Thank you for your question. We do provide a detailed list of what to wear and bring for the hikes in your confirmation. We recommend sturdy, ideally waterproof or water resistant hiking boots or shoes – trainers or runners are okay, but boots are better.
It's likely that the temperature may be wet or even snowy in September, so waterproof boots would be best. These can be rented from stores in town such as Snowtips-Bactrax.
Written March 25, 2019
Larch Valley hike goes up to Sentinel pass? Even with rain on the forecast, continue as scheduled?
Written September 2, 2018
Hello Avi,
Thank you for your question. The Larch Valley hike does not continue up Sentinel Pass due to trail restrictions and stops by the lakes located at the base of this trail. All hikes go ahead even if it rains so we do recommend being prepared for all weather conditions. This is a wonderful hike, particularly in mid to late September once the larch trees turn golden yellow.
Written March 25, 2019
will they pack lunches for vegetarians?
Written July 15, 2018
Hello,
Thank you for your question. We have four lunch choices, including a vegetarian wrap (with tomato, cucumber, bell pepper, lettuce and hummus on a tortilla wrap) or a green salad. Lunches also include fruit, juice, salted potato chips and two bite brownies.
Written March 25, 2019
Showing results 1-6 of 6
*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.