Discover the stunning winter landscapes of Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon with a guided shared experience that’s perfect for all ages. Glide on ice, hike snowy trails, and soak in mountain heritage—all arranged by Explore Banff Tours. Keep reading to find out why this tour is a must-do when visiting the Canadian Rockies in winter!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–6 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; moderate walking and standing required
Wildlife
History
Johnston Canyon has been accessible since the early exploration days of Banff National Park, which was established in 1885, making it one of Canada’s oldest national parks.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles, helping preserve the delicate ecosystems of the Rockies and ensuring future generations can enjoy these pristine environments.
Explore Banff Tours and Transfers Inc.
Discover the stunning winter landscapes of Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon with a guided shared experience that’s perfect for all ages. Glide on ice, hike snowy trails, and soak in mountain heritage—all arranged by Explore Banff Tours. Keep reading to find out why this tour is a must-do when visiting the Canadian Rockies in winter!
Explore Banff Tours and Transfers Inc. is a Canmore-based tour operator offering a broad selection of guided adventures and private transfers across Banff, Lake Louise, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks. The company lists shared and signature private experiences including guided hikes, sunrise excursions, wildlife-focused drives, and Icefields Parkway journeys.
Guided hiking options include Boom Lake, Bow Glacier Falls, Stanley Glacier, Lake O'Hara, Emerald Basin, and Johnson Lake snowshoe adventures, with expert guides providing trail insights and safety information. Yoho and Kootenay itineraries highlight Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, and Marble Canyon; several private and shared formats are available. Transfer services operate between Banff/Canmore, Lake Louise, and Calgary, including private winter transfers. Many tours explicitly include gear or seasonal support where required, such as ice cleats and poles for Johnston Canyon & Marble Canyon private winter experiences. Offerings are presented as distinct shared tours and signature private tours to suit differing group sizes and preferences. All trip names and formats reflect the company’s advertised products. Visitors can choose tailored private or shared departures, day trips, extended excursions, and guided hikes to explore Rockies landmarks from Canmore. Booking information and availability are listed per tour; travelers can select shared or private options, and many signature private tours include personalized itineraries and guide-led interpretation to maximize time at iconic viewpoints like Lake Louise regularly.
Base Location
Canmore, Alberta
Departure point for listed tours
Tours Offered
40 experiences
Shared, private, hikes, transfers
Tour Formats
Private & Shared
Options for groups and solo travelers
Transfer Routes
Banff/Canmore ↔ Calgary
Private transfers listed in products
Choose a shared tour or private transfer, check availability, and reserve the exact experience listed from Canmore to Banff, Lake Louise, Yoho and Kootenay.
Dress in layers
Layering helps you stay comfortable and warm throughout outdoor activities amid fluctuating winter conditions.
Arrive early
Getting an early start allows for more flexible timing and avoids crowds, especially at popular spots like Lake Louise.
Bring traction devices
Ice cleats or crampons are recommended for hikes, especially around icy waterfalls and narrow canyon trails.
Check weather updates
Winter weather can change quickly; review forecasts before your trip for a safe and enjoyable day out.
Warm layered clothing
Layered clothing keeps you warm while adapting to changing weather and activity intensity.
winter
Waterproof hiking boots
Waterproof boots provide traction and keep your feet dry on snowy and icy terrain.
winter
Ice skates
Rent or bring your own ice skates for fun on the frozen lake surfaces.
winter
Sunglasses & sunscreen
Protection from glare and UV exposure, especially on snow-covered surfaces.
winter