Hop-On Hop-Off Banff Bus: Flexible Day Trips to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Johnston Canyon
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Good for travelers who can handle multiple short walks and optional full-day hikes; choose stops to match your fitness.
Overview
Board a yellow school bus and craft your own Banff day: hop between Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and more with guaranteed seats and local hosts to guide your choices.
Hop-On Hop-Off Banff Bus: Flexible Day Trips to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Johnston Canyon
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The yellow school bus hums along the Bow Valley Parkway as spruce and larch slide past like pages in a field guide. Window frames catch a herd of elk grazing at the roadside; the driver taps the brakes and the guide lowers their voice to a hushed aside about rutting season. This is the rhythm of a Hop-On Hop-Off day in Banff National Park: deliberate, flexible, and built around the park’s most famous waterways and walks.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Start early for Moraine Lake
Depart on the first bus to reach Moraine Lake before commercial parking fills—the light is best and crowds are smaller.
Pack layers and water
Mountain weather shifts quickly; bring a warm jacket and at least 1–2 liters of water if you plan to hike from Lake Louise or Moraine Lake.
Respect wildlife distances
Keep at least 100 meters from bears and wolves and 30 meters from elk/bighorn; the bus route often pauses for sightings—observe from the vehicle when possible.
Buy gondola tickets on board
If you want the Lake Louise Gondola, you can purchase limited tickets from the host on the bus—cashless payment recommended.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Bighorn sheep
History
Banff National Park was established in 1885 after hot springs were discovered and the Canadian Pacific Railway promoted mountain tourism; many routes follow old railway and trail corridors.
Conservation
Parks Canada enforces trail etiquette, wildlife buffers and permits—stay on designated paths, pack out waste, and purchase a park pass if driving to trailheads.
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Adventure Hotspots in Banff
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof hiking shoes
Provide grip on wet boardwalks and rocky alpine trails found at Johnston Canyon and Lake Louise.
spring specific
Insulated shell or fleece
Layering keeps you comfortable from valley heat to chilly alpine winds at higher viewpoints.
summer specific
Daypack with 2L water
Carry water, snacks, and layers for side hikes like Lake Agnes or Plain of Six Glaciers.
fall specific
Bear spray (and know how to use it)
Recommended if you plan to hike off the main beaten paths; carry accessible and learn deployment before you go.
summer specific