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The COMPLETE Guide for Getting from Calgary to Lake Louise (for 2024)

Disclaimer: this page may contain affiliate links. please review our full terms and conditions for more information and our privacy policy. note that any pricing, operating hours, or other such information provided below may have changed since initial publication..

Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last updated on December 30, 2023

The crystal aquamarine waters of Alberta’s Rocky Mountain lakes beckon many travellers to the province, which is why this short route from Calgary to Lake Louise is such a popular one.

It can be a fairly straightforward drive, but there are also so many reasons to stop along the way (including Banff… hello )! Whether you choose to hit these hot spots on the way there or the way back, just be sure to schedule some extra time in at least one direction!

About the route

The distance between Calgary and Lake Louise varies if you’re taking the fast route or the slightly more scenic route.

• Fastest route  – From Calgary to Lake Louise, take the Trans-Canada (Highway 1). The distance on this route is 182km and driving time is just over 2 hours.
• Slightly more scenic route  – Consider taking Highway 1A from Calgary through Cochrane, and then get on Highway 1 near Morley. This adds another 10km to your journey and about 15 more minutes. For an even more scenic route, you can then take the Bow Valley Parkway outside of Banff but this road is closed until further notice.

Note that these driving times are when the roads are clear and in good weather, they are not necessarily representative of winter driving or peak traffic. Weekends are always busy – if you are planning to go from Calgary to Lake Louise on a Friday night and back on Sunday, you should expect additional time on the road.

IMPORTANT:  Note that Lake Louise is inside Banff National Park, and a pass is required in order to stay within the park.

Effective January 1, 2024 daily fees are:

• Adult: $10.50
• Senior: $9.00
• Youth (up to 17 yo): FREE
• Family/group (up to 7 people): $21.00
• Commercial group (per person): $9.00

The daily passes expire at 4 pm the following day. If you’re looking to enter multiple times or staying longer, consider the Parks Canada Discovery Pass . It gives you unlimited admission for a year to all the national parks in Canada.

Discovery Pass fees are as follows:

• Adult: $72.25
• Senior: $61.75
• Family/group: $145.25

The park gates are 100 kilometres west of Calgary on Highway 1, and passes can be purchased upon arrival. Alternatively, they can also be purchased online in advance .

Calgary to Lake Louise by Car

This relatively short drive is scenic and enjoyable as the prairies give way to foothills and ultimately lead to the Rocky Mountains. This is a route worth getting behind the wheel for, to allow you to stop at any point for photos or to partake in activities along the way. 

Remember to always check on the driving conditions before you leave, especially in winter. While Alberta’s highways are in great shape and well-maintained, snowstorms can wreak havoc, or there might also be construction in summer which will slow your road trip. Learn more about Alberta’s road laws and driving guidelines before you hit the road. In addition, check current road reports .

If you’re flying in…

The closest airport to Lake Louise is Calgary International Airport (YYC), located on the north end of Calgary. From the airport, to get on your way quickly is to take Highway 2 north to Stoney Trail (201) which meets up with Highway 1 (also known as the Trans-Canada Highway) and takes you all the way to magical Lake Louise.

Fortunately, there are plenty of car rental options at YYC. Book in advance to ensure less hassle:

• We recommend booking via  RentalCars.com , to select the cheapest rate or to book with whichever company you prefer.

If you are not interested in a traditional car rental through an agency, you can also rent cars through a website called  Turo  (think AirBnB for car rentals). The Calgary International Airport is a frequent pick-up/drop-off point.

Just arrived in Calgary and need a hotel?

If you are not in a rush, or want to spend an extra night in Calgary because you arrive late, there are plenty of hotels in the area. Those right onsite at the airport tend to be more expensive, so we prefer these options:

• Hotel Clique is a super chic and affordable hotel that has free parking, free WiFi, and a great restaurant onsite. It is a quick shuttle ride from the airport, and we have stayed here several times when we have an early flight out of Calgary. Bonus: it has two rooftop pools!
• The Four Points by Sheraton is on the west side of the city, just off of Highway 1, and will ensure you get a jump on your drive the next day. Parking and WiFi are both free.

Calgary to Lake Louise by Bus

There are a couple of good bus options for this route, even though they don’t allow for as much freedom of schedule. But it does allow you to sit back and enjoy the scenery!

• Brewster Express – Brewster Express has been connecting Calgary to Banff, Canmore, Kananaskis, Lake Louise, and Jasper for 125 years. Book a one-way journey from Calgary to Lake Louise for $99 or save 15% with a round-trip ticket for only $169 per person. 
• Rider Express – They offer one daily trip from Calgary to Lake Louise and back a couple of days per week. Tickets for one-way journeys go for $58.

Calgary to Lake Louise by Private Transfer

Private transfers from YYC to Lake Louise are a convenient and relaxing way to get to there without making multiple shuttle stops that slow you down. Some options are:

• Banff Transportation Group – Departing from Calgary airport to Lake Louise or vice versa. At the time of writing, their price for a one-way ride was $360 for a taxi-style car.
• Banff Sedan – For those looking to travel from Calgary to Lake Louise with a group or a big family, they have busses with room for up to 24 people! Private sedans start at $477.

Calgary to Lake Louise by Other Options

• Taxis are always an option, of course, and are easily found in the big city! Note that it can cost approximately $300 for a one-way journey.
• Uber  is in Calgary, however, consider that drivers may not be willing or capable to make the drive and the price is close to what a taxi would cost for just one way.
• Consider  Poparide.com , where you can basically catch a ride with someone already going! You can select your driver based on your luggage and equipment requirements (if you are travelling with skis, bikes, etc). Poparide charges per seat so you have an opportunity to meet other visitors if you are travelling solo to Lake Louise.
• At the moment, there is no Calgary to Lake Louise train or flight.

Fun Things to Do Along the Way

If you arrive in Calgary early and decide to travel by car, there are so many things to do on the way to Lake Louise. Here are a few of our favourites:

• If you are travelling during summer and have the kiddos in tow, consider a stop at Calaway Park to blow off some pent-up energy from a long flight. The park has 32 rides, 24 games, and exciting live shows to enjoy. The different rides are good for children of different ages, so everyone can have fun. 
• Located on the way to Banff off of Highway 1A, the  Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary  is a fantastic place to visit. It is one of the only sanctuaries in Canada to pair successful rehabilitation and re-homing of wolfdogs with public education.
• You can’t just drive by the towns of Canmore or Banff without stopping! Both are great places to grab something to eat, stretch your legs, and get your first taste of the Rockies. In fact, both are also great places to base yourself in order to explore Lake Louise and the surrounding area. See our guides of things to do in Canmore and things to do in Banff to plan those visits.

Upon Arrival in Lake Louise

You made it!

Let your Rocky Mountain adventures begin! In any season, you can find countless things to do in Lake Louise . In the summer, a paddle on the lake is a must, or find many popular hiking trails in the area. In the winter, some of the best skiing in Alberta is here, and skating on the lake or snowshoeing are great options, too.

Where to Stay in Lake Louise

As Lake Louise is a hamlet, there are fewer options for hotels than there are in nearby Banff. But there is no sacrificing quality for what is there!

• Luxury – Staying at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise is one of those once-in-a-lifetime types of experiences, to wake up and pull the curtains back and have the iconic Lake Louise right in front of you. This resort has everything you could ask for, including a heated indoor pool, a full-service spa and hair salon, one of the best opportunities to ski in Alberta, plus eight on-site dining options.
• Mid-range – The Lake Louise Inn is a great option that’s more economical but still offers awesome perks. Enjoy the heated indoor pool and hot tubs, free shuttle service to the ski resort, and two onsite restaurants plus a lounge. Suites and apartments are also available, as is free parking!
• Budget – Book a stay at the HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre for a quality hostel experience. There’s an onsite cafe and self-catering kitchens, and even a sauna! You’re close to all of the action and can also park onsite for free.

Don’t forget

If you want to experience more of your surroundings, don’t miss our guide to visiting Banff National Park . If you plan on heading into the townsite of Banff as well (it’s about a 40-minute drive), then we also suggest checking out these Banff restaurants and best Banff hikes !

And if you also want to enjoy Calgary before you begin your journey to Lake Louise, then start planning with our extensive guide of things to do in Calgary !

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• 4 Day Private Tour: Banff Long Weekend Getaway from Calgary

5 Day Private Tour: Badlands and Banff from Calgary

• 6 Day Private Tour: Banff and Lake Louise from Calgary
• 7 Day Private Tour: Best of the Canadian Rockies From Calgary
• Banff National Park Tour from Calgary
• Calgary City Highlights Half Day Tour
• Drumheller & Badlands Tour from Calgary
• Kananaskis Country Day Tour from Calgary
• Banff Highlights Half Day Tour
• Icefields Parkway Tour – Banff / Lake Louise and Jasper
• Jasper Highlights Half Day Tour
• Mountain Lakes and Waterfalls Tour – Banff and Lake Louise
• Calgary to Banff Private Shuttle
• Calgary to Golden Private Shuttle
• Calgary to Jasper Private Shuttle
• Calgary to Lake Louise Private Shuttle
• Calgary to Panorama Private Shuttle
• Calgary to Revelstoke Private Shuttle
• Small Group Banff Highlights Tour
• Small Group Mountain Lakes and Waterfalls Tour
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• Small Group Jasper to Banff Tour
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• Find My Tour

6 Day Private Tour:

Banff and lake louise from calgary, six days of exploring the highlights banff national park.

Tour Category:

Private Multiday Tours

December to March | May to October

Destinations:

Calgary | Banff  | Lake Louise

Tour Description:

From Calgary to Banff and Lake Louise. This 6-day, 5-night sightseeing tour will take you to all of the must-see highlights in Banff National Park. From the plains of Calgary to the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, you will see the very best of Canada’s landscapes: mountains, lakes, and waterfalls.

Banff and Lake Louise: 6 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Calgary / Banff
• Day 2: Banff Tour
• Day 3: Banff to Lake Louise Tour
• Day 4: Free Day to Explore Lake Louise
• Day 5: Lake Louise to Calgary Sightseeing
• Day 6: Departure from Calgary

Arrival in Calgary and touring to Banff

To start your vacation, your private tour guide for the next five days will pick you up from the location of your choice within Calgary whether it is the Calgary Airport, downtown, or the surrounding area. For those who are arriving on a flight, your guide will meet you in the arrivals section of the airport.

From Calgary, your adventure to the Canadian Rockies begins! The drive from Calgary to Banff takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours as the scenery outside of your private vehicle gradually changes from prairie landscapes, to foothills, to mountain peaks. Depending on the time that you arrive in Calgary and the preferences of your group, your guide would be happy to make stops to show you some of the sights along the way.

Your hotel in Banff for the next two nights is included.

Half-Day Private Tour: Banff Highlights and Banff Gondola

Today, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning for a half-day sightseeing tour of the town of Banff and its surrounding highlights. Visit Surprise Corner for the best views of Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, otherwise known as “The Castle in the Rockies”. See the towering mountains including Rundle, Tunnel, Cascade, and Norquay. Learn about the wind-shaped hoodoos, see Bow Falls, and experience a scenic drive along Tunnel Mountain Drive.

The highlight of today’s tour is a gentle ride on the Banff Gondola up to the top of Sulphur Mountain for fantastic views of the Bow Valley, interpretive boardwalks, and endless photo opportunities.

Upon completion of the tour, the rest of the afternoon in Banff is yours to spend how you wish. The exact timing of the day is up to you as it is a private tour but it is best to plan for a 2 to 3 PM end to the tour if you are making afternoon plans. Let your guide know where you would like to be dropped off in town.

Your hotel in Banff tonight is included.

For ideas on how to spend your free time in Banff, see below:

Full-Day Private Tour: Banff to Lake Louise Sightseeing Tour

Today, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning with your luggage for a full-day sightseeing tour of the area between Banff and Lake Louise. During this tour, you will travel along the Alberta and BC border, cross the Continental Divide, and explore more sights within Banff National Park and Yoho National Park.

From May to October , the tour will focus on the many mountain lakes, and waterfalls in the area which include key locations such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake, and Takakkaw Falls.

From December to March , the lakes will be frozen over and some of the mountain roads will be closed meaning that Moraine Lake and Takakkaw Falls are not accessible, however, there is still plenty to do and see! There are some great, optional, Canadian winter activities that can be included on this day. Let us know your preference for the following activities in advance of your trip:

• Ice Skating on Lake Louise
• Horsedrawn Sleigh Ride at Lake Louise
• Dogsledding in Banff National Park
• Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing at Emerald Lake

Your hotel for the next two nights at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is included. This world-famous lake is known as the Jewel of the Canadian Rockies and is one of the most photographed locations in the world.

Free Day to Explore Lake Louise

Today is a free day to relax and enjoy one of the most beautiful locations in the Canadian Rockies. If you need some recommendations for what to do, see below, or let your guide know the day before if you prefer to take things day by day.

From May to October , here are a few ideas on how to spend your day:

• Canoeing – Rent a canoe and explore the waters of Lake Louise (generally available starting in late May or early June)
• Hiking – The Lake Agnes Tea House is a popular 7 KM (4.5 Mile) hike that starts from the hotel
• Afternoon Tea – A popular afternoon activity at the Fairmont hotels across Canada
• Spa Day – enjoy a relaxing day at the Chateau Lake Louise Spa
• Lake Louise Gondola – A popular spot for grizzly bear viewing during the summer months

From December to March , here are a few ideas on how to spend your day if you haven’t already included one of these on the previous day’s tour:

• Ice Skating on Lake Louise – skate rentals available at the hotel
• Go Skiing or Snowboarding at Lake Louise Ski Resort

Your hotel for tonight at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is included.

For additional ideas on how to spend your free time in Lake Louise, see below:

Full-Day Private Tour:  Lake Louise to Calgary with Sightseeing Stops

Today, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning with your luggage for a full-day tour/transfer from Lake Louise back to Calgary. By this time, your guide will have gotten to know you pretty well and will make some recommendations for any last-chance sights to see before leaving the Rockies. This could include other stops in Banff, Yoho, or Kootenay National Parks that weren’t previously included on Day 2 or 3, or new locations such as Kananaskis, Canmore, or even a highlights tour of the city of Calgary.

Upon arrival in Calgary, you will be dropped off at your Calgary downtown hotel. It is time to say goodbye to your tour guide as your trip comes to an end with your last night in Calgary.

Your hotel in Calgary for one night is included. *For those with an early morning flight the next day, a Calgary Airport hotel can also be substituted.

Departure from Calgary

Your vacation concludes upon check out of the Calgary hotel.

Should you have a flight to catch from YYC, a complimentary private shuttle to the airport will be included from your hotel.

Should you have some free time before you depart from Calgary, see below for ideas on how to spend your free time in the city:

6 Day Private Tour: Sample Pricing for 2023 & 2024

Group of 6 people (3 rooms).

• +$746 Superior Hotel Upgrade
• +$1476 Deluxe Hotel Upgrade
• +$2127 Premium Hotel Upgrade

Pricing Details:

• Peak Season rates are for June through September – you’ll save more by traveling outside of those months
• Sample prices are per person(based on a group of 6 people) in Canadian Dollars and are subject to an additional 5% Canadian sales tax.
• Prices are based on double occupancy in hotels. For single, triple, or quad sharing, please request a quote.
• Base prices are based on the Popular Hotel category
• Prices are available for one to nine people traveling. Please request a quote to find out the exact pricing for your group.
• For groups or 10 or more people, please contact us for a custom itinerary.
• To qualify for any current  Specials , please  r equest a quote.

What's Included

• Private Tour Guide/Driver
• Private Vehicle (Up to 9 people with luggage)
• 5 Nights of Hotel Accommodations *(Hotel Level Selection Required)
• National Park Passes
• Private Transfer between Calgary & Banff
• Private Transfer between Calgary Hotel & Airport
• Private Half-Day Banff Tour (Banff Gondola – All Seasons)
• Private Banff to Lake Louise Tour (+ Optional Activity – Dec to Mar only)
• Private Lake Louise to Calgary Tour
• Luggage Handling

Not Included

• Flights in or out of Calgary
• Gratuities/tip for guide and hotel staff
• Canadian 5% sales tax

Popular Hotels

Our base level of hotels or “ Popular hotels ” typically include standard room types in major hotel chains such as Marriott, Delta, and Sheraton properties.

Superior Hotels

Our Superior level of hotels or “ Superior hotels ” provide you with upgraded rooms at Popular Hotels or base-level rooms at some of our 4-star properties.

Deluxe Hotels

Our Deluxe level of hotels or “ Deluxe hotels ” offer a guarantee of either a larger room or a spectacular view at one of the Superior Hotels, or at a 4.5-star hotel.

Premium Hotels

Our high-end hotel options, or “ Premium hotels ” include the Gold Floor at all Fairmont hotels where available, otherwise known as the Grand Railway Hotels.

Request Availability & Quote for Your Group

More tour options.

From Calgary to Drumheller and Banff. This 5-day, 4-night sightseeing tour will take you to the must-see locations on either side of Calgary. Travel east to see Drumheller and Alberta's Badlands, and west to the Rocky Mountains where you will see the very best of the Canadian Rockies' most popular…

4 Day Private Tour: Banff Weekend Getaway from Calgary

From Calgary to Banff. This quick 4-day, 3-night sightseeing tour will take you to all of the must-see highlights in Banff National Park. From Calgary to the Rocky Mountains, you will see the very best of the Canadian Rockies' most popular mountain town.

7 Day Private Tour: Best of the Canadian Rockies from Calgary

From Calgary to Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper. This 7-day, 6-night sightseeing tour will take you to all of the must-see locations in the Canadian Rockies. From the plains of Calgary to the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, you will see the very best of Canada’s landscapes: mountains, lakes, glaciers,…

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Privacy preferences.

THE BEST Day Trips from Calgary to Lake Louise

Day trips from calgary to lake louise.

• Calgary to Banff
• Calgary to Lake Louise
• Calgary to Jasper National Park
• Calgary to Banff National Park
• Calgary to Jasper
• Calgary to Drumheller
• Calgary to Waterton Lakes National Park
• Calgary to Golden
• Calgary to Radium Hot Springs
• Calgary to Field
• Calgary to Yoho National Park
• Calgary to Mayerthorpe
• Calgary to Turner Valley
• Calgary to Glacier National Park
• Calgary to Canmore
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Lake Louise Moraine Lake JohnstonCanyon fromCalgary/Canmore/Banff

2. Lake Louise & Yoho (Moraine Lake June - Oct) from Calgary/Banff

3. Day Trip to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Yoho from Calgary, Banff

4. Full Day Tour in Moraine Lake, Lake Louise & Yoho N.P.

5. Glaciers, Mountains, Lakes, Banff & Canmore - VIP Comfort

6. [Day Tour]Lake Louise, Kootenay Marble Canyon, Yoho National Park

7. Lake view Full Day Tour-Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Peyto Lake...

8. Mountain Lakes and Waterfalls - roundtrip from Calgary

9. Day Trip: Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Banff Town from Calgary

10. Lake View Full Day Tour 2-Moraine Lake, Lake Louise and Emerald

11. Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Banff Tour

12. Takakkaw Falls Marble Canyon Yoho NP from Calgary Canmore Banff

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

Sunrise at Moraine Lake Tour

Moraine Lake and Lake Louise tour from Canmore or Banff

Half-Day Canadian Rockies Canyon Exploration

Private Full Day Jeep 4 by 4 Tour Exploring Ghost Valley

Moraine Lake Sunrise Tour

Discover Banff National Park on this Shared Sightseeing Tour

Skybridge Adventure Golden BC from Canmore & Banff

What travellers are saying.

THE 10 BEST Lake Louise Tours & Excursions

Tours in lake louise.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Walking Tours
• Private Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Scenic Railroads
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Motorcycle Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway Full-Day Tour

2. Moraine Lake, Lake Louise & Banff Secrets | Award-Winning Tour

3. Discover Banff National Park - Day Trip

4. Banff, Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Tour from Calgary, Canmore

5. Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus

6. Explore Banff National Park with Our Premium Day Tour

7. Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Tour from Calgary/Banff/Canmore

8. Lake Louise Moraine Lake JohnstonCanyon fromCalgary/Canmore/Banff

9. Full Day Private Banff National Park Tour Small Group Customizabl

10. Banff National Park Tour with Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

11. From Calgary: explore Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Banff

12. Discover Lake Louise (Spring & Fall Sightseeing)

13. Mountain Lakes and Waterfalls - roundtrip from Banff

14. Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Banff

15. Columbia Icefield Adventure 1-Day Tour from Calgary or Banff

16. Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Sunrise | Award-Winning Premium Tour

17. Experience Banff National Park & Lake Louise | Moraine Lake - PRIVATE DAY TOUR

18. Lake Louise & Yoho (Moraine Lake June - Oct) from Calgary/Banff

19. Day Trip to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Yoho from Calgary, Banff

20. Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Daily Guided Hike - Easy

21. Experience Moraine & Lake Louise with Rewild Adventure Tours

22. Icefields Pkwy: Lake Louise | Bow Lake | Peyto Lake | Glacier - PRIVATE DAY TOUR

23. Banff and Jasper 2 Days Breathtaking Tour

24. Icefields Parkway Highlights & Secrets | Award-Winning Adventure

25. Full Day Tour in Moraine Lake, Lake Louise & Yoho N.P.

26. Banff, Lake Louise & Johnston Canyon | Winter Wonderland Tour

27. Icefields Parkway: a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour

28. Banff National Park Guided Hike with Lunch

29. Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Tour from Calgary - Canmore - Banff

30. Sunrise at Moraine Lake Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Varun C 0 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Memorable trip with amazing guides I was skeptical of having to travel alone, but the guides made it very interactive and fun! Garth and Denis were very welcoming people who gave very insightful information about the area and were in general just fun to talk to! Definitely recommend them for any of your future plans. Read more Review of: Banff National Park Adventure from Calgary /Small group Written 3 May 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway - Full-Day Tour
• Discover Banff National Park - Day Trip
• Lake Louise & Banff Tour from Calgary / Banff / Canmore
• Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus
• Moraine Lake, Lake Louise & Banff | Small Group Adventure Tour
• Wild Water Adventures
• Kingmik Dog Sled Tours
• Banff Photography at Lake Louise
• Lake Louise Tubing
• Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola
• Great Divide Nature Interpretation
• Timberline Tours Ltd. - Private Day Tours

APRIL SALE Extended:   Book now for   up to 60% off!

Lake Louise Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Lake Louise. We've got 197 adventures going to Lake Louise, starting from just 3 days in length, and the longest tour is 35 days. The most popular month to go is August, which has the largest number of tour departures.

197 Lake Louise tour packages with 2,834 reviews

• Hiking & Trekking

Our tour guide and group were amazing. He was punctual, knowledgeable, and kind. However I wasn’t too happy with the tour. I understand it is a low season, but many things were canceled or unavailable. The biggest disappointment was not going to a First Nations village. The reason was a flood that happened either last year or this summer. That should have been disclosed on the website before we made a decision to book the tour. That being said, other things we did do and see were incredible.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

I booked this tour last minute, as I had some time to spare after a work trip in Edmonton. The tour was everything I would imagine and more. Gabriel genuinely was the key to making this tour amazing, he is energetic, cares about all the travellers, and passionate about what he does. He definitely went out of his way to ensure everyone was happy and felt safe during the tour itself. It was great to be able to go to all the beautiful locations in Alberta any traveller would want to see, but not have to be surrounded by big tour buses. The bus is comfortable, the hostels were great, the company even better. Definitely, recommend this tour to anyone who wants to get the most out of a short time in Banff. I wish I had more information earlier, in which I would know there was an option for a hop-on/hop-off, to extend the stay and go towards BC. Regardless, hands down one of the best decisions to book!

Rockies Premium Tour from Vancouver (34 Seats)

There was so much to be happy with, the views were spectacular, our bus driver Will was a legend, so informative, with his side kick Simon, who needs to be running his own tours as he was born to do this was terrific????the accommodation was next level and far exceeded our expectations! Then there was the people, we met so many new friends and highly recommend this tour to others!

Active Canadian Rockies Adventure

Highly recommended!!

• Train & Rail

Via Railway Experience｜5-Day Vancouver to Rockies Railway Full Experience Tour Departure

Overall it was a very good experience. The tour is organized and the entire team were nice and helpful. The tour was great in the sense that you get to see a lot in a few days which is great. You also get explanation and details of every spot. I highly recommend this tour to anyone who is interested in discovering the Rocky Mountains. The only thing I would change is to exclude the Vancouver part, if you are going from TO I advise to go strait to Calgary and start the tour from there. We did the 5 days excursion from TO to Vancouver then to Jasper, Banff …Calgary. And we had a flight delay going to Vancouver of 2 days so arrived on the same day we had to head to Jasper and that was very exhausting. In conclusion, it’s a great tour to consider and totally worth it :)

5-Day Rockies Unique Tour (Banff & Jasper & Yoho National Park)

Tour was well arranged and tour staff and driver were quite friendly and approachable

7 Day Rocky Mountain Camping Adventure

Jef and cedrick were fab guides and made our trip to the rockies an amazing adventure

• €130 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Canadian Rockies

I have great time. Dusty is the best tour manager. I have very good first camping trip.

Canadian Rockies Eastbound Express

It was a good experience.

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

Grand Canadian Rockies

Really awesome! I enjoyed it immensely plus our guide Jay was so accommodating to everyone's personal wants to the tour. Also he's really versatile and knows exactly how to time everything so we're not bothered too much by the tourist rushes. It was so great. I'm so happy I went ^^

6 Day Rockies Hiking and Camping Tour

Really enjoyed this tour.Kiki and Loreen were great guides and boy can they cook.The food was outstanding.Did some beautiful hikes through Banff and Yoho NP.Scenery was gorgeous.As well as the hiking there is optional activities such as walking on the glacier at Columbia Icefields(highly reccomend)horse riding and white water rafting.Our group consisted of only 7 people + the guides.It made it easy for us to bond and get to know each other.The tents supplied were nice and spacious.Can hire sleeping bag which I did.Loved the whole experience.Thank you so much for allowing me to experience the stunning Canadian Rockies with such a professional and smooth running team such as Fresh Adventures

The Best of Banff and Jasper, Campingtour

I had a wonderful time! I only wish the tour had been longer. Our guide Rebecca was super great and funny. We ate well and saw some amazing views. I was worried I wouldn’t be fit enough however it was fine. I normally walk/run three kilometres a day so while this trip was a workout I was fine keeping up.

Spectacular Canadian Rockies (Base, 10 Days)

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

The Best of Banff and Jasper, Hoteltour

Good Accommodation, Transport and Locations. Hikes could be more challenging than expected. Itinerary description didn’t always reflect options available. Plans changed often which caused confusion and some disappointment

Panoramic Canadian Rockies (12 Days, Rocky Mountaineer SilverLeaf)

It was fantastic I really enjoyed everything about this tour I saw so much of Canada and our tour guide Robins was so knowledgable.

What people love about Lake Louise Tours

Great tour with amazing sights and wildlife; however, be aware of a lot of driving the first two days on the way to banff and on the last two days back to Vancouver. Furthermore the itinerary should be updated as there where some changes as to the description.

Keira our tour guide/driver was awesome.....

Just returned from the 5 day Premium tour of the Rockies. What an amazing trip! We traveled in a very comfortable bus under the guidance of of our exceptional guide Richelle. Richelle was a wealth of knowledge sharing interesting information on each area we visited, we learnt so much from her about the areas we explored. The trip follows absolutely breathtaking landscapes. The accommodation choices were wonderful and it was good having this all organised, made the holiday a breeze for us . It was spectacular having breakfast organised at the top of the gondola in Banff , felt very special as well as all the other adventures Richelle took us on. Having the tour all organised for us took the stress out of us having to organise things , we had the adventure of a life time and loved every moment. Highly recommend this tour if you have limited time and want to visit as much as possible between Vancouver and Banff.

• Canada Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• 10 Best Stargazing Tours & Trips 2024

How to Get From Calgary to Lake Louise in 2024

If you are an international visitor to Banff National Park, or even on a cross-country Canadian road trip, chances are you will be driving the highway from Calgary to Lake Louise.

An iconic Canadian location, Lake Louise is a must-see location when visiting the Canadian Rockies. Read on to find out how to get from Calgary to Lake Louise, with some of the best stops along the way!

The Best Way to Travel from Calgary to Lake Louise

So, you’ve landed at the Calgary International Airport (YYC) and need to get from Calgary to Lake Louise. There are a few transportation options varying in convenience, pricing, and flexibility.

• Car / Rental Car: Traveling by car is the easiest and most convenient way to get from Calgary to Lake Louise. You may also appreciate the flexibility of having your own vehicle as you explore the area.
• Shuttle: Group shuttles can be booked from YYC to Lake Louise. You might also consider taking an airport shuttle to the Canmore/Banff area, depending on where your accommodations are, and then taking an additional shuttle or use public transportation to visit Lake Louise.
• Private Transfer: By far the most expensive option (unless you’re traveling with a large group), you can also book a private transfer between the Calgary International Airport and Lake Louise.

How Far is the Drive From Calgary to Lake Louise?

The drive from Calgary to Lake Louise is 183km and will take approximately 2 hours. The drive itself is very simple; once you get on the Trans-Canada Highway heading west out of Calgary, follow the road until you see the exit for Lake Louise. You’ll pass both Canmore and Banff on your way to Lake Louise, which we recommend stopping at if you never have.

You can also take a slightly longer, more scenic route by heading towards Cochrane when you leave the city and take Highway 1A from Cochrane to Canmore.

If you are driving yourself, you have the option between these two routes. Another possibility is you could drive one route on the way to Lake Louise and another on the way back to Calgary. Either way, you will eventually end up at the beautiful Lake Louise!

Calgary to Lake Louise by Rental Car

The most flexible option is renting a car and driving to Lake Louise yourself. Having a car for the duration of your trip will ensure that you are able to visit many of the attractions within Banff National Park and the surrounding area without having to rely on public transportation options.

You can rent a car directly at the Calgary International Airport. All of the major rental car companies operate at YYC and the route to Lake Louise is easy to navigate once you leave the airport.

During the winter months, you will want to ensure that you rent a vehicle with snow tires or all-wheel drive in case of snowy and icy road conditions.

Calgary to Lake Louise by Shuttle

Another option for traveling between Calgary and Lake Louise is to book an airport shuttle. Brewster Express offers transfers between the Calgary International Airport and Lake Louise, among other locations in the Rockies.

Brewster Express is owned by Pursuit, which also operates tours and offers tickets at many popular attractions in the Canadian Rockies. You might also use the Brewster Express service to travel between locations, such as Banff or Jasper. If you are planning to stay in Calgary before traveling to Lake Louise, the service also offers pick-up at some hotels in the downtown Calgary area.

Brewster Express Rates (YYC to Lake Louise)

Another option is the more affordable Rider Express. The Rider Express travels everyday from Vancouver to Banff . They make one stop at Lake Louise Village on their route and costs $76.

Mountain Park Transport runs daily shuttles between Banff/Lake Louise and Calgary Airport (YYC) with rates starting at $59.99

On It is introducing a new direct service from Calgary to Lake Louise beginning on June 14th, 2024. Tickets are available on their website and cost $17.50 each way per adult.

Calgary to Lake Louise by Private Transfer

If you do not want to drive or take a group shuttle, you could arrange for a private transfer between YYC and Lake Louise. As mentioned, this will likely be the most expensive option unless you are traveling with a large group. Banff Sedan offers luxury vehicles that can be booked for a private transfer.

Banff Sedan Rates (YYC to Lake Louise)

Using public transit to get to lake louise.

You may decide that you’d rather drive, take a bus/shuttle, or book a private transfer from Calgary to Banff and then travel to Lake Louise from there. In this case, you may choose to use the Roam Transit bus (use Routes 8X) from Downtown Banff to get to Lake Louise. The Roam Transit Route 8x (Lake Louise Express) runs to Lake Louise daily from Banff.

If your accommodations are in the Banff area rather than Lake Louise, this option offers convenient access to Lake Louise and saves the hassle of parking. The price of this service will vary depending on how many days you would like to travel; for example, a 1 Day Pass can be purchased for $20, and a 3 Day Pass for $45.

Banff vs Lake Louise • Which One is Right for You

Important Things to Note

• Parks Canada Pass: You will need a Parks Canada Pass in order to visit Lake Louise. You can purchase one as you drive into the park, when leaving Canmore, on the Trans Canada Highway. You may notice as you drive up that some vehicles do not stop at the ticket booth – these people either already have their pass, or are not planning on stopping in Banff National Park.
• Wildlife: It is important to be aware of the various wildlife that you may encounter on the highway. Stay alert while driving in order to keep yourself and the wildlife safe.
• Road Conditions: If you are visiting in the winter, the roads can get snowy and icy. If you are inexperienced with winter driving, it is imperative to have a vehicle with winter tires and give yourself extra time when driving. Also, keep in mind that the road between Calgary and Lake Louise can get busy in the summer months, particularly on the weekends.

Parking at Lake Louise

Can you drive to Lake Louise ? The answer is yes! However, if you drive your own (or rented) vehicle to Lake Louise, you must find parking. As this is a very popular tourist destination, parking can be a significant challenge, particularly in the summer months.

As Lake Louise is such a popular tourist destination, the nearby parking lot fills up quickly in the morning and can remain full for the day. Arriving at sunrise or sunset provides the best chance of finding a parking spot. Between May and October, there is a $36.75 daily charge for parking ($8 for those with a handicapped placard).

If you have a hotel booked at Lake Louise , check with them so you know their parking situation. Most hotels at Lake Louise have hotel parking for their guests, but you still must find your way to the actual Lake Louise lakeshore (the actual lake).

Lake Louise Parking: Everything You Should Know

Another option is to park at the Lake Louise Park & Ride lot and take the Parks Canada shuttle to the lake. You will find the Park & Ride parking lot at the Lake Louise Ski Resort. You may also decide to book the Lake Connector or Roam Super Pass, giving you access to visit both Lake Louise and the beautiful Moraine Lake in the same day!

Roam Super Pass

During the 2024 summer season, the Roam Transit Reservable Super Pass provides all route access for one day. For $25, this One Day Reservable Super Pass allows unlimited travel on all Roam routes, including Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise. Additionally, it is the sole fare option granting access to the Parks Canada – Lake Connector Shuttle between Lake Louise Lakeshore and Moraine Lake.

The Reservable Super Pass must be pre-purchased exclusively online at Roam Transit . Show your valid Roam Reservable Super Pass to Parks Canada staff at the Lake Louise Lakeshore or Moraine Lake to receive your Parks Canada boarding pass.

You must make reservations in advance in order to use the Park and Ride shuttle; these reservations can be made at the beginning of the summer season, and additional reservations are available in a rolling window at 8 a.m. two days prior to your departure day. Ticket reservations are booked for a one-hour window.

Best Stops to Make Between Calgary and Lake Louise

Upon arriving in Calgary, you might decide that you would like to spend a few days exploring one of Canada’s largest cities. The city has many attractions including the Calgary Tower, WinSport, and a wide variety of restaurants and breweries . If you are visiting in July, be sure to take in the famous Calgary Stampede – one of the best things to do in Calgary!

Kananaskis Country

If you have some extra time as you make your way to Lake Louise, why not visit Kananaskis Country ? This beautiful provincial park lies just outside of Banff National Park, and is home to some amazing views and epic hiking . To access the area, follow the Trans-Canada Highway until you see the exit for Kananaskis Trail / AB 40S (exit 118).

One important thing to note is that you will need to purchase a Kananaskis Conservation Pass if you plan on spending time here. This pass can be purchased online and you need to provide your license plate number. You can purchase either a day pass ($15) or annual pass ($90); depending on how many days you plan on spending in the area, an annual pass may be worth it.

You can also visit the very popular Kananaskis Nordic Spa for some relaxation and pampering. There are a variety of services available, including massage and hydrotherapy. A perfect way to unwind after a day of traveling!

Around 80km from Lake Louise lies the lovely mountain town of Canmore. Here you will find a variety of restaurants , shops, and mountain views. There are also a number of hikes in the Canmore area if you are looking to stretch your legs. The town of Canmore is worth a stop on any Canadian Rockies tour, even if it’s just for a cup of coffee !

No visit to the Canadian Rockies is complete without strolling the restaurants and shops of Banff Avenue. The town of Banff offers beautiful mountain views and easy access to many amazing attractions such as the Banff Gondola , Tunnel Mountain , and Vermillion Lakes . There is so much to do in the Banff area that it’s a good idea to plan to spend several days here.

Johnston Canyon

If you are looking for a family-friendly hike at any time of the year, Johnston Canyon along the Bow Valley Parkway is a great option when traveling from Calgary to Lake Louise. In order to access the Johnston Canyon parking lot, you will need to use the Castle Junction exit off the Trans-Canada Highway, or drive the entirety of the Bow Valley Parkway between Banff and Lake Louise .

The hike to reach the upper falls is around 5km, and you can expect it will take approximately 2 hours. It’s a popular hike, so you can expect crowds unless you visit early or later in the day, especially during the warmer months. It’s a worthwhile stop as you make your way from Calgary to Lake Louise!

Morant’s Curve

Located just off the Bow Valley Parkway, this famed photography spot presents awe-inspiring vistas of the encompassing mountains. While Mount Fairview dominates the background, numerous other peaks, including Mount St. Piran, Niblock, Whyte, Saddle, Sheol, and Haddo Peak, are also visible.

Photographers frequently schedule their visits at Morant’s Curve to capture the perfect moment of a westbound train passing through the region during the morning light. Though there is no train schedule, trying to time this right is all luck of the draw!

Nonetheless, the stunning scenery is not limited to photography enthusiasts and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling between Calgary and Lake Louise.

Arriving at Lake Louise

You have made it to Lake Louise! This truly spectacular destination is popular for good reason, as it is one of the most beautiful spots in Canada. There are many exciting things to do in the area during summer and winter.

Things to Do in Lake Louise

While it’s likely that you will want to spend some time along the lakeshore gazing at the stunning Lake Louise, here are just a few of the outdoor activities that you can enjoy on your visit:

• Canoeing: Rent a canoe at the Lake Louise lakeshore . It’s the closest you’ll get to the turquoise waters of the lake!
• Hiking: There are a number of epic hiking trails around Lake Louise . Lake Agnes Teahouse is popular, or you can also try the Plain of Six Glaciers or Mount Fairview Lookout.
• Skiing: Only 10 minutes from Lake Louise, the Lake Louise Ski Resort is a great option for those looking to hit the slopes. Get ready for some epic views with something for everyone!
• Skating: During the winter months, bring your skates and enjoy the most gorgeous views while skating on Lake Louise . If you do not have your own skates, you can rent a pair at Chateau Ski and Snow Rentals near the lobby of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Where to Stay in Lake Louise

Below are just a few options for accommodations in Lake Louise. Note when booking your accommodations that the village of Lake Louise is located about 4km from the lakeshore, along a steep and often busy mountain road.

• Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: The most luxurious option, visitors here have the beautiful Lake Louise mere steps outside the hotel. Accommodations here come at a high price, but it is the only hotel right along the lake itself.
• Paradise Lodge and Bungalows: Only 500 meters from Lake Louise, this accommodation provides charming and rustic lodging with convenient access to the lake. Note that this accommodation is only open in the summer months.
• Lake Louise Inn: This hotel is located in the village of Lake Louise and is a more budget-friendly option when staying in the area.

Our Favorite Lake Louise Hotels .

I hope that this article helped you to plan your trip from Calgary to Lake Louise! Whether you’re visiting for a day or even longer, any visit to the area is well worth the trip.

Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies

• Tours (New in 2024): The Banff Blog is partnering with one of the leading tour companies in Western Canada so readers can experience the magic of the Rockies with other travelers – without having to think about a thing. See all our 2024 tour offerings here!
• Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
• Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car : The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service connecting you from the Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Banff or Canmore.
• Get Around : We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. Or embark on an epic campervan trip. We like to compare prices on Motorhome Republic and Outdoorsy .
• Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going to watch for cheap airfare deals!
• Hop On, Hop Off : This tour is taking Banff by storm. It’s exactly what it sounds like, hop on and off a bus bound for all the best attractions at your own pace!

About Rachel Dale

Hi, I’m Rachel! I’m a travel and outdoor enthusiast, and I love exploring my home province of Alberta. My favorite activities include hiking, running, and searching for my next best cup of coffee or new favorite restaurant. You can find me spending much of my free time outdoors, and I love visiting the Canadian Rockies as often as I can. I am excited to document my travels here and hope that you can find inspiration for your next trip to beautiful Banff!

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Calgary to Lake Louise Drive (Trip Options & Stops)

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Lake Louise is a popular tourist destination in western Canada . The turquoise blue waters and the cute tea house in the Rockies pull thousands of visitors every summer. In this post, we will cover the various options to travel from Calgary to Lake Louise, attractions to see along the way, and other useful tips.

Calgary is the closest airport to reach Lake Louise. We have embarked on this Calgary to Lake Louise drive trip many times in the past 10 years (in summer and winter seasons), and we have always been awestruck by the majestic beauty of the Canadian Rockies. 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Where is Lake Louise located in Canada?

Lake Lousie is located in the province of Alberta in western Canada. As mentioned, Calgary International Airport is the closest point of entry for international travelers flying to Banff. 

Lake Lousie is part of the Banff National Park (situated inside the park) and is technically a hamlet. A hamlet is a small community (smaller than a village or a town), with only one road or crossroad leading to the area.

In order to enter Lake Louise, you will have to pass through the gates of Banff National Park, and pay for park fees. 

Park Fees ,

• Adult – Person 18 to 64 years of age – $10 CAD per day or 24 hours*
• Family/Car – $20 CAD – per day or 24 hours
• Senior – $8.30
• Youth (up to 17 years ) – Free
• Commercial group (per person) – $8.30

The 24 hour pass means that you pay for $10 CAD per adult for one day inside the National Park, which also includes travel to Lake Louise. 

If you are a frequent visitor to National Parks in Canada, we recommend opting for the Discovery Pass. It is definitely a money saver. The Discovery Pass is valid for one full year from the date of purchase and it allows you to access over 80 historical, and nature parks in Canada for a set price of $69+ CAD (for adults).

Calgary to Lake Louise Distance and Driving Time

• Distance from Calgary to Lake Louise is 182.5 kilometres (travel via Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 W). 
• Calgary to Lake Louise Driving Time is 2 hours, one way under normal conditions (perfect for day trip too)

In this post, we will also cover travel tips on doing a day trip from Calgary to Lake Louise. On a day trip (say 8 to 10 hours sightseeing and drive time), you pay the same amount. 

READ: How to spend one day in Calgary Itinerary

How to Get from Calgary to Lake Louise

Below you will find all the different ways to travel to Lake Louise from Calgary

Calgary to Lake Louise by Car

COSTS: Gas: $20- 35 CAD one way + Car Rental starts at $23 CAD per day

Our favorite way to travel to Lake Louise from Calgary is by car. We like starting early morning (7:00 am ish), so that we reach Lake Louise centre by 09:00 am for breakfast!

With a car rental, you can make stops along the way, whilst enjoying views of Banff National Park. You can easily rent a car from the Calgary Airport (options for Avis, Enterprise, Budget, etc. are available) to Lake Louise. You can book it online, ahead of time via Expedia and Rentalcars/Booking – two of our favorite travel services sites.

From the airport, you can embark on the Trans-Canada Highway, and head west (and follow signs). If this is your first time in Alberta or the Rockies, we recommend using GPS or Google Maps to make your drive easy. 

Driving through the Canadian Rockies is a treat in the summer months. Sunsets are super late here, so you can make the most of your trip. 

If you are driving in the winter, we have to caution you about blowing snow, and slippery road conditions. Many times we were caught in the snow with poor visibility driving through Banff, when Calgary was all bright and sunny! (yea, the weather can be deceiving). 

Just ensure you are driving slow, and take breaks if driving becomes challenging. As always opt for car insurance, have winter tyres on, keep a blanket and some snacks with you!

READ: How to plan a road trip in Canada

Calgary to Lake Louise by Bus

COSTS: Starts at $69 CAD, takes 2+ hours one way

Rider Express operates a scheduled bus service from downtown Calgary to the village of Lake Louise. The journey takes between 2 to 3 hours. 

Buses leaving from Calgary to Lake Louise depart from the following stops

• Downtown Greyhound Station, 
• Downtown Red Arrow Office, 
• North Red Arrow Office, 
• Crossiron Mills,
• Deerfoot Casino, 
• YYC Airport, 
• Downtown Marriott or Downtown Delta.

Drop off areas are as follows

• Lake Louise Bus Depot, 
• Lake Louise Inn, 
• Fairmont Chateau, 
• Deer Lodge, 
• Post Hotel or Husky.

Rider Express can be booked via BusBud and it is a good option if you are exploring Calgary for a day or two, and then connecting to Lake Louise (tickets start at $69 CAD). Otherwise, we recommend using the shuttle from the Airport to Lake Louise, as operated by Brewster Express (love their services)!

Shuttle buses from Calgary Airport to Lake Louise 

Shuttle services are available from Calgary YYC Airport to Lake Lousie by Brewster Express. Their services also include Canmore, Banff, Kananaskis, and Jasper among others. 

One way adult fares start at $71.00 CAD, and you can save 15% when you book a round trip.

*Note: There are no Greyhound or Red Arrow bus services from Calgary to Lake Louise at this time (November 2020)

Banff Airporter is another popular bus service option from Calgary International Airport. However this service ends in Banff, and you have to take another bus/shuttle to Lake Louise (not direct service, must be booked separately).

Calgary to Lake Louise by Guided Tour

COSTS: $460 CAD per person (includes return trip, 2 nights accommodation, sightseeing) 

You can visit Lake Louise from Calgary on a 3-day tour. This tour also includes a sightseeing itinerary, 2 nights accommodation and return transportation. Although we have not taken this particular tour, this is the only one available that covers Lake Louise from Calgary on a short 3 day trip. 

The trip itinerary also includes Banff and Yoho National Park sightseeing . You can check out reviews, and other departure dates here

Alternate Option : Calgary to Banff day tour, provided by GetYourGuide , our favorite tour provider

Calgary to Lake Louise by Train

COSTS: Starts at $3070 CAD (6 nights)

We get often asked, if there is a train from Calgary to Lake Louise? Short answer is – Yes, and No.

There is no direct train service from Calgary to Lake Louise. However, there is one option – Rocky Mountaineer. 

The Rocky Mountaineer is the only train that travels between Vancouver and Banff or Lake Louise, and they offer a rail tour from Calgary via motorcoach and train. They are the only ones to offer this service. And this service is also seasonal.

If you are keen on a scenic train journey, here is what you can do. 

You can book a ride via Rocky Mountaineer . This package is called the ‘Journey through the Clouds’, and it includes one way train packages that begin or end in Calgary. The tour is 6 days in duration, and covers Calgary, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper all the way to Vancouver. (You can also book this tour in reserve, starting in Vancouver). 

As mentioned, the entire trip is not a train ride. It is a mix of a tour, a rental car/motorcoach transfer between Banff National Park, Lake Louise, Vancouver , and Calgary.

Calgary to Lake Louise by RV and Campervan

COSTS: $75 and $150 CAD per night to rent campervans or small trailers. Renting an RV is great for longer trips is a good idea as the costs can average to less than $75 CAD per day.

Here are some tips if you are traveling from Calgary to Lake Louise by RV. Of course, the distance and time traveled is the same as driving by car. 

But it is very common to see campervans in Banff National Park , road tripping through the Canadian Rockies. There are many RV and campervan rental companies in Calgary that you use to book. 

• CanaDream Rentals and Sales
• KarmaCampervans

Things to see on a Calgary to Lake Louise Drive

Day trip from Calgary to Lake Louise

With a 2 hour drive, you can easily explore Lake Louise on a day trip from Calgary. Sometimes when accommodation is expensive in the Rockies, we stay near the Calgary airport and then explore from there. 

On a day trip, you must stop at the following spots,

• Start at 07:00 am from Calgary downtown or airport hotel
• Stop at Cochrane (35 minutes from Calgary), or at the Ghost Lake Reservoir
• Then Canmore (20 minutes outside of Banff, about 1.25 hours from Calgary)
• Banff (you can also break for lunch)
• Johnston Canyon (optional)
• And finally – Lake Louise

Calgary : We don’t live in Calgary, but we love it. We are only 3 hours away in Edmonton, and Calgary downtown is where you will find us when we are in town. We have a detailed guide to all the fun things to do in Calgary from Stephen Ave, Calgary Tower, Fort Calgary, Heritage Village Park, Glenbow Museum, and more. 

Cochrane: Cochrane makes for a great day trip from Calgary , just like Lake Louise. You can stop at the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary and take a walking, or an interactive tour, perfect for wildlife lovers. You can book a tour here

We like opting for this route to Banff, as well and stop by the Ghost Lake Reservoir in the winters or early Spring.  

Canmore: Canmore is one of the prettiest small towns in Alberta – we love it! From wandering the town centre to quick strolls at the Policeman’s Creek, you can’t skip Canmore. This is our favorite spot for lunches as well (our favorites: K Bakery, SpiceHut – Both have great Indian cuisine offerings). 

Banff: Of course, needs no introduction. This is where you will pay for entry fees and enter the national park area. If you have time on your hands, you can explore Banff Avenue, Cascade Gardens, head to the Sulphur Mountain Gondola, and Vermillion Lakes.

Stopping by Lakes : From Banff town, you can make quick photo stops at Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka. 

(The popular Lake Moraine, on the other hand, is easily accessible from Lake Louise Village. It is located off the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1). So when you drive uphill on Lake Louise Dr, you will see an access road for Moraine Lake on your left, and keep driving for about 11 kilometres to reach the parking area).

Johnston Canyon : From Banff to Lake Louise, you can make a stop at the Johnston Canyon, located on the Bow Valley Parkway. A visit to the canyons will take 3-4 hours of exploring. In the winters, there is an ice walk conducted from Banff (with return trip) , where you can enjoy the beautiful ice formations in the canyon! Highly recommend it, if you are extending your stay in the Rockies. 

Things to do in Lake Louise

Finally you are here – at Lake Louise!

Lake Louise is delightful at any time of the year. Each season welcomes you with a different perspective of the lake – it is lovely in the summer adorning blue turquoise colors, and in the winters it is frozen rock solid in pretty white!

Here are some of the finest things to do in Lake Louise

• Visit the lake in the summer, and go canoeing
• Hike Agnes Tea House Trail (summer)
• Eat at the Lake Louise local cafes at the hamlet/town center
• Stop by the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel , and enjoy an afternoon tea. This is where you will find skate rentals in the winter. 
• The Hotel is also the venue for the popular (and free) Ice Magic Sculpture festival that takes place in January – February (part of Snow Days by Banff Lake Louise Tourism.)
• In the winter, you can skate at the frozen lake, surrounded by stunning mountain views
• Plan to visit the Lake Louise Ski Resort for winter sports: this resort was voted #1 in Canada – in 2019!
• During winters, you can also opt for a horse-drawn carriage ride or dog-sledding tour.
• More Winter Activities : Here is a detailed guide to visiting Lake Louise in winter
• Accommodation : Find hotels in Lake Louise  or book one of the Best Airbnbs in Banff and Lake Louise

We hope you found this post with transportation and sightseeing options from Calgary to Lake Lousie useful. Have a safe drive!

Calgary to Lake Louise Drive

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

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Find the cheapest bus tickets from Calgary to Lake Louise

Easily compare and book your next trip with Busbud

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Bus Calgary to Lake Louise: Trip Overview

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Customers have had a great experience with Rider Express, praising the friendly staff and skilled drivers. The service is described as clean, fresh, and smooth. Some customers appreciate when the driver informs them about upcoming stops. Overall, it was a very positive first-time experience for many passengers.

Rider Express Calgary Lake Louise recent customer reviews

Amazing trip (very comfortable and scenic too), however, the bus ride home was 45 minutes late.

I really like when the driver gives us heads up on the next stop over. The drivers are friendly and helpful. It was fast and efficient. I hope longer minutes for bus stopover instead of 5 minutes to 10 minutes. I will recommend this shuttle bus company.

Very nice first-time experience with Rider Express. Everything was perfect and the driver was super nice and helpful!

Calgary to Lake Louise Buses

Busbud shows you the best bus ticket fares and bus schedules so you can easily plan and book a trip by bus from Calgary to Lake Louise.

Bus service from Calgary to Lake Louise will be provided by the most trusted bus companies.

Whether it is cheap bus tickets or more luxurious buses going to Lake Louise from Calgary, we help you find what you're looking for based on how much of a budget you have.

Information on this bus route

Where are the popular bus stations and stops in calgary and lake louise.

304 35 Ave NE, Calgary, AB T2E 2K6, Canada

Entrance #2, 112-261055 Crossiron Blvd, Balzac, AB T0M 0E0, Canada

Whitehorn LRT Station, Calgary, AB T1Y, Canada

850 16 St SW, Calgary, AB T3C 3V7, Canada

3953-3971 Brentwood Rd NW, Calgary, AB T2L 1L1, Canada

200 Village Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L, Canada

Frequently asked questions on the trip Calgary - Lake Louise

How long does it take to get to lake louise from calgary by bus.

The typical travel time from Calgary to Lake Louise by bus is around 2h 7m. The fastest bus on this trip will get to Lake Louise in 1h 59m

What is the distance between Calgary and Lake Louise?

The distance between Calgary and Lake Louise is around 152 km (95 miles).

How often do buses run from Calgary to Lake Louise each day?

You can choose from 6 travel times and travel with Rider Express.

When do the first and last bus leave from Calgary to Lake Louise?

The first bus starts running at 6:00 AM, and the last one leaves at 10:30 PM. If you want a smooth trip, it's a good idea to arrive at the station early to check-in.

What are the departure and arrival locations for buses traveling from Calgary to Lake Louise?

Buses traveling this route start their trip at Calgary International Airport, in Calgary, and end it at Lake Louise Bus Depot, in Lake Louise.

What is the cheapest way to go from Calgary to Lake Louise?

Taking the bus is the most budget-friendly option to travel from Calgary to Lake Louise. With a starting ticket price of $83, this bus becomes your top pick for this journey.

How much is the bus from Calgary to Lake Louise?

The bus fare from Calgary to Lake Louise is approximately $86.

Is it possible to do a day trip from Calgary to Lake Louise?

Yes! Taking a day trip from Calgary to Lake Louise is very much possible. The round-trip travel time is approximately 3h 58m. Before your trip, be sure to check the departure and arrival times to ensure you'll have ample time to explore Lake Louise.

Find cheapest prices for buses

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Calgary to Lake Louise, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $76 to $82 for a bus ticket from Calgary to Lake Louise based on the last 1 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $76 which is on 2024-05-05.

About Bus Travel

Bus travel tips.

If you're abroad, study some local language. Not only could it get you out of a pickle during your bus trip from Calgary to Lake Louise but it'll also be endearing to native speakers who will surely appreciate your effort.

Much more than a mere vehicle taking you from Calgary to Lake Louise, riding the bus will expose you to some of the most stunning panoramas while enroute to your final bus stop.

Buses are energy-efficient. Carrying a passenger over 100 kms by coach only takes 0.6-0.9 liters of gas. Compare that to the 2.6 liters required by high-speed train, 6.6 liters by airplane and 7.6 liters by gas-powered car, and it's clear that the bus is a more environmentally-conscious option for your bus transportation from Calgary to Lake Louise.

Create your own real life musical score by curating a personalized bus travel playlist - the perfect accompaniment to your bus ride from Calgary to Lake Louise.

Did you know?

The word 'bus' is an abbreviation of 'omnibus" which means 'for all' in Latin as buses were meant to be transportation for everybody.

Did you know some bus companies in Germany offer to their passenger low-costs snacks and regional beer based on their destination? Prosit!

The average number of passengers on a coach bus is 32 meaning that a bus could replace a minimum of at least 30 cars!

Will you be returning to Calgary by bus?

Top travelled bus routes.

Why choose Busbud?

The best way to book bus and train tickets.

Busbud.com makes it easy for you to find, compare and book city-to-city bus tickets, all over the world. We save you the extra trip to the bus station. With several language and currency options available, Busbud seeks to cater to international bus travellers no matter where they are in the world. Busbud prides itself on its worldwide partnerships. We make it possible for you to buy tickets with its large network of trustworthy bus partners like Greyhound, Eurolines, ALSA, OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus), National Express and many others.

Popular Buses Connecting Calgary

Buses leaving from calgary.

• Bus from Calgary to Medicine Hat
• Bus Calgary - Revelstoke
• Calgary - Canmore
• Bus from Calgary to Lethbridge
• Bus Calgary - Red Deer
• Calgary - Saskatoon
• Bus from Calgary to Regina
• Bus Calgary - Lake Louise
• Calgary - Kelowna
• Bus from Calgary to Jasper
• Bus Calgary - Grande Prairie
• Calgary - Golden
• Bus from Calgary to Winnipeg
• Bus Calgary - Kamloops
• Calgary - Fort McMurray

Buses Going to Calgary

• Bus from Banff to Calgary
• Bus Saskatoon - Calgary
• Vancouver - Calgary
• Bus from Fort McMurray to Calgary
• Bus Red Deer - Calgary
• Swift Current - Calgary
• Bus from Lethbridge to Calgary
• Bus Regina - Calgary
• Surrey - Calgary
• Bus from Canmore to Calgary
• Bus Golden - Calgary
• Grande Prairie - Calgary
• Bus from Kelowna to Calgary
• Bus Revelstoke - Calgary
• Kamloops - Calgary

Popular Buses Connecting Lake Louise

Buses leaving from lake louise.

• Bus from Lake Louise to Banff
• Bus Lake Louise - Calgary
• Lake Louise - Edmonton
• Bus from Lake Louise to Jasper
• Bus Lake Louise - Vancouver
• Lake Louise - Golden
• Bus from Lake Louise to Revelstoke
• Bus Lake Louise - Canmore
• Lake Louise - Kamloops
• Bus from Lake Louise to Abbotsford
• Bus Lake Louise - Saskatoon
• Lake Louise - Surrey
• Bus from Lake Louise to Red Deer
• Bus Lake Louise - Moose Jaw
• Lake Louise - Prince Albert

Buses Going to Lake Louise

• Bus from Banff to Lake Louise
• Bus Canmore - Lake Louise
• Calgary - Lake Louise
• Bus from Jasper to Lake Louise
• Bus Vancouver - Lake Louise
• Edmonton - Lake Louise
• Bus from Golden to Lake Louise
• Bus Revelstoke - Lake Louise
• Kamloops - Lake Louise
• Bus from Kelowna to Lake Louise
• Bus Saskatoon - Lake Louise
• Red Deer - Lake Louise
• Bus from Kananaskis to Lake Louise
• Bus Winnipeg - Lake Louise
• Regina - Lake Louise

Popular routes in this country

• Bus from Toronto to Ottawa
• Bus Montreal - Toronto
• Saskatoon - Edmonton
• Bus from Toronto to Quebec City
• Bus Fort McMurray - Edmonton
• Calgary - Vancouver
• Bus from Quebec City to Montreal
• Bus Edmonton - Fort McMurray
• Vancouver - Kelowna
• Bus from Toronto to Kingston
• Bus Kingston - Toronto
• Edmonton - Saskatoon
• Bus from Toronto to Vancouver
• Bus Grande Prairie - Edmonton
• Kelowna - Vancouver

Popular airport transfers

• Calgary to Calgary International Airport
• Calgary to Edmonton International Airport
• Calgary to Abbotsford Airport

Popular international trips

• Bus from Playa del Carmen to Cancún
• Bus Cancún - Tulum
• Tulum - Cancún
• Bus from Cancún to Playa del Carmen
• Bus Cancún - Chiquilá

Interested in more? Receive travel deals, trip reminders and other updates by email!

Lake Louise & Moraine Lake

• BOOKING TERMS
• Sightseeing Tours

See two of the world’s most beautiful lakes including iconic Lake Louise – famous for its jewel-like water nestled between rugged peaks.

These stunning alpine lakes look too beautiful to be real. On this sightseeing tour you will visit the “Jewel of the Canadian Rockies”, Lake Louise, and the world renowned Moraine Lake, both of which are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of their priceless natural beauty. They’ll stop you in your tracks in awe.

Wander the shoreline at Lake Louise and see the Victoria Glacier and the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel, and then snap some shots of Moraine Lake in the beautiful Valley Of The Ten Peaks. Take a short walk up the Rockpile at Moraine Lake, where you’ll find the iconic view that was once on the back of the Canadian $20 bill. During the tour, your guide will weave tales of the early mountaineers, who also fell in love with this spot in the 1890s.

With parking lots often filling up by sunrise, get guaranteed access to both famous lakes on this guided tour.

Beth's Pick

"you'll have a chance to see two the most beautiful lakes in the world. pictures do not do these lakes justice. " - beth , reservations agent, discover banff tours, lake louise & moraine lake tour reviews.

The best parts of the tour for most people include the following:

Castle Mountain

Lake louise, the fairmont chateau lake louise, moraine lake, how long is the tour, what does the tour include, where is our pick up and drop off from, how can i join this tour if i'm not staying in banff, how long are the stops at lake louise and moraine lake, i want to see turquoise lakes, when do the lakes thaw, when is the road closed to moraine lake, can i drive to lake louise and moraine lake, is there a lot of walking involved, will i see wildlife on the tour, what is the cancellation policy, should i tip my guide.

• All children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.
• Early and late season road closures will limit access to Moraine Lake (until late May and from early October). When the access road to Moraine Lake is closed, the tour will not visit Moraine Lake and will instead spend 1 hour at Lake Louise.
• Photo ID may be required for identity verification.
• By participating in a tour with Discover Banff Tours, guests are acknowledging that they understand that we may take video and photographs of them during their tour. These videos and photographs may be used in promotional materials including, but not limited to, social media.
• Please note that this tour requires a minimum of 4 participants, please call the day prior to confirm the tour.

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Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is a stunning glacially-fed lake located in Banff National Park, in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, Canada.

About Moraine Lake

Moraine lake features, moraine lake's turquoise waters, valley of the ten peaks, glacial origins of moraine lake, moraine lake accessibility, rockpile trail, moraine lake's seasonal variations, moraine & lake louise hop on open-top double decker shuttle explorer.

Exciting ride to beautiful Lake Louise & Moraine Lake.

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Shuttle service between banff, moraine lake and lake louise.

Our shuttle service is the best way to guarantee your visit to Moraine Lake, leave the driving to us, and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Moraine Lake and Lake Louise up close and personal.

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Moraine Lake is some of Canada’s most spectacular scenery.

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Moraine lake reviews.

The natural beauty of both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake was immense. Definitely recommend the tour, Nicole was a great guide.

Jeff did a really great job as our coach tour guide. He is quite polished in his delivery of his commentary. It was easy to enjoy our coach to Lake Louise and Moraine.

Great tour! Our tour guide, Bobby, was excellent - and he was from our hometown - Knoxville, TN!! Small world!! Bobby was very informative, took pictures as requested & mingled with the passengers perfectly. Thanks again - oh, and the scenery & lakes were beautiful!! Pickup & droppff were seamless!

Amazing experience to be able to explore Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Oliver was a fantastic guide who shared some neat stories about the history and ecology of the area.

Moraine Lake Map

Dramatic and iconic Moraine Lake & Lake Louise location.

Click to Contact Us

Inside Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake Sunrise.

Moraine Lake Lake Adventure Tour.

Lake Louise & Banff & Moraine Lake Tour.

Moraine Lake June to mid October.

Shuttle Service between Banff & Moraine Lake, Lake Louise.