Calgary to Banff & Yoho: Lakes Tour – Review & Recommendations
So, you’re considering taking a tour from Calgary to see some of the famously stunning lakes in Banff and Yoho National Parks, right? That’s quite a plan! Perhaps you are mulling over if it’s worth it, or which tour could even be the one. I mean, you want to ensure you experience the best those iconic locations have to offer, without any trouble. We went ahead and took one of these tours and brought together some sincere thoughts and advice that could prove useful for you.
Why Opt for a Guided Tour from Calgary?
Thinking about seeing Banff and Yoho from Calgary is a good move, that’s for sure! Actually, there are quite a few solid reasons why picking a guided tour might be the best way to get the most out of this trip. Think of it; there is driving for maybe two or three hours each way. With a tour, that’s time that you just sit back, unwind and perhaps even appreciate the vistas passing by your window. Then there is the parking situation at Lake Louise, for instance, it can often be kind of difficult, most especially during peak season. That headache? Yep, someone else takes care of it. More or less, the knowledge and tidbits shared by the tour guides add tons to what you will get out of your experiences, from geology to the history. A tour is usually more efficient when it comes to time, hitting lots of spots in one single day that might be tough to pull off alone. So, maybe it makes a lot of sense, more or less.
Lake Louise: The Jewel of the Rockies
Lake Louise, for one, could very well be the star of Banff National Park, you know? We found it was basically the highlight on our tour. As a matter of fact, it’s that classic image you notice in calendars and postcards. The vibrant, turquoise waters, surrounded by these seriously towering mountains and, to boot, the grand Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise really are what they say they are. That’s breathtaking. Many tours tend to allocate around, say, an hour and a half to two hours here. That’s actually sufficient time to stroll along the lakeside trail, grab those must-have photos, and, if you want, simply soak in that unbelievable sight. Anyway, there are things such as canoeing on the lake which can be an unforgettable thing to do, but know that it will eat into your time considerably.
What to Expect at Lake Louise
Keep in mind that Lake Louise, in fact, is hugely popular, really. Especially during summer. Arrive either early in the morning or later in the afternoon could allow you to, more or less, dodge some of the big crowds, arguably. As well as the Chateau offers restaurants and cafes, and packing your own snacks really would be a pretty nice idea, too. Especially if you’re on any kind of budget. Now, I’m not kidding when I tell you that taking that little stroll up to the Fairmont Chateau really will provide some seriously gorgeous vantage points. Definitely grab a camera!
Peyto Lake: A Panoramic Marvel
So, Peyto Lake could well be another seriously awesome highlight of this tour. Peyto Lake honestly has such a unique, almost unreal, turquoise color that comes about from glacial rock flour constantly flowing into it. Anyway, what really stands out could well be that panoramic view from the viewpoint. A very quick, fairly easy walk from the parking area brings you out to this absolutely sensational view. Tours sometimes provide around thirty to forty-five minutes at Peyto Lake. Honestly, it’s basically just right for capturing shots and taking in the vast scale.
Tips for Visiting Peyto Lake
It can be fairly breezy at the viewpoint, that is for certain. Having a light jacket really might keep you happier. It could turn out that this spot is a very popular one, so actually be ready for crowds. Being patient allows you to get a clear shot, right? The viewpoint does have some safety railings, too, that might prove helpful as you enjoy all the sights, of course.
Emerald Lake: Yoho’s Hidden Gem
Now, Emerald Lake, spotted in Yoho National Park, is rather something else, too. You know? Perhaps less known than Lake Louise. However, honestly, it’s got its very own distinct appeal. More or less, that intense emerald green color reflected beautifully in those clear waters is just something else to see. Then again, there is that surrounding forest which basically adds to that tranquil, calm mood. Tours very often do provide around one hour at Emerald Lake. We found it gives ample opportunity to, say, stroll around a part of the lake, snap tons of pictures, and just appreciate its quiet natural setting.
Experiencing Emerald Lake Fully
Emerald Lake is actually the biggest lake in Yoho National Park, that’s right. A trail does wind completely around the perimeter. So, perhaps if you’re keen to take a full hike, you will definitely need more time than the average tour gives, right? There could also be canoes available for rent, right at the lake, perhaps. If you enjoy things like canoeing, then think of taking a paddle, it can really give you very different perspectives of those lake and nearby peaks.
Bow Lake: Serenity Defined
Bow Lake, truly set along the Icefields Parkway, has almost its own character, almost. Often tour stops will really give you time to stop and absorb that spectacular beauty. Its waters basically show an immaculate reflection of those surrounding mountain peaks and glaciers. Anyway, it truly has a sense of vast openness that really creates that peaceful feel. You may well discover tours allocating around a half-hour here. You know? Enough to just wander a little on the shore, take tons of photos, and basically just relish that striking environment.
Maximizing Your Visit to Bow Lake
There is actually a lodge not far from the lake, if you want some seriously picturesque coffee stop. The Icefields Parkway really might get extremely windy. Very definitely carry a warm jacket, or even extra layers, right? I suppose it really would pay to spend an additional moment to actually appreciate those glacial views. It’s really is seriously fascinating and beautiful.
Other Potential Stops
As well as those headliners, it could be that a tour may provide additional, interesting spots. And even scenic overlooks. Check with each itinerary so you will discover whether you will visit somewhere else such as, perhaps, the Johnston Canyon or maybe a view of the impressive Takakkaw Falls in Yoho. What spots like those can add to the experience. You will, anyway, have a better broader look around those national parks, that’s for sure.
What to Pack for Your Lakes Tour
Come prepared! Bring clothes that you are comfortable layering, as mountain weather may fluctuate quickly. Bring your walking shoes; even shorter walks can benefit from comfortable footwear. Don’t forget your camera; these landscape views deserve your best efforts. Carry a water bottle, some treats, and some bug spray.
Choosing the Right Tour for You
I mean, all tour products do vary a bit, you see. Most certainly read through those detailed tour plans properly and even look closely at exactly how much time they really will allocate at each spot. Does the size of the tour vehicle even matter to you, almost? Are you happier on smaller more intimate affairs or maybe on bigger coach ones? Read the fine print in those evaluations from any of those prior travelers. You will want to pick something in line with the way you enjoy things. So that day gets seriously awesome.
Essential Tips for an Amazing Experience
Wear layered clothing. Actually, mountain weather is rather famous for being seriously changeable. Arrive a bit earlier for your departure location to take lots of time finding a seriously perfect parking location, also, maybe locate any bathrooms. Remember food or snacks if you even feel peculiar or extremely peckish easily between main food times. Mostly, seriously savor that beauty.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
So, is that tour from Calgary really worthwhile to experience those stunning lakes in Banff and Yoho, that’s what you need to decide on, very? From my own experience? Seriously, I think that they do really present a simple, hassle-free route to enjoy many of those famous iconic sites. Not having the worry about navigating those roads as well as the parking difficulties could even justify the value just all alone. Plus all that information that is provided? I came to find that enriched what I thought was an appreciation for those alpine locations. Perhaps you’ll agree!
Key Takeaways:
- Convenience: Really dodge the effort of navigating or even finding those places to park.
- Knowledge: Pick up appealing facts and experiences by those guides.
- Time-Saving: You get to visit multiple key sights in one day in an easy manner.
- Breath-taking Scenery: From Louise to Emerald Lake and so much, actually delight yourself by seeing probably some most spectacularly lovely environments on this planet.
Have some seriously phenomenal moments, all right?