Top Banff Water Tours

Few places in Alberta offer the postcard beauty of Lake Minnewanka, part of Banff National Park. Admire views of the Canadian Rockies and prairies as you cruise across the turquoise-hued lake and over to Devil’s Gap during this boat tour. Scan the lakeshore for big-horned sheep, deer, bald eagles, and even the occasional bear. Along the way, learn about the indigenous people who used to call the surrounding area their home. A perfect excursion for nature lovers and families alike.

Discover Banff National Park from the water on a scenic canoe journey up the Bow River. Surrounded by stunning peaks, pristine water, and wildlife, this is the perfect outing for park visitors who want to break away from the crowded overlooks and hiking trails. Plus, traveling by canoe provides an idyllic way to travel deeper into the park without the effort of hiking.

Maximize your views of Banff National Park with minimal exertion during this round-trip gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Take in views of six different mountain ranges and nearby rivers aboard your state-of-the-art alpine transport, offering large windows and seating for four guests. Enjoy time exploring the ridge line boardwalk before returning back to town.

This day tour from Calgary, Canmore, and Banff immerses you in the stunning natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy a breathtaking gondola ride on Sulphur Mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks. Explore the charming streets of Banff town, visit the picturesque Bow Falls, and take in the serene beauty of Lake Two Jack and Lake Minniwanka. - Experience a scenic gondola ride on Sulphur Mountain - Discover the historic Banff town with guided insights - Visit iconic spots like Bow Falls, Lake Two Jack, Surprise Corner, Banff Hot springs , and Lake Minniwanka - Ideal for nature lovers and first-time visitors to Banff National Park

This canoe adventure showcases the spectacular nature of Banff National Park—away from the crowds. Traveling down the picturesque Bow River on a 12-person canoe, your entire crew will glide through the backcountry, catching views you’d never get from behind your windshield. With your guide leading the way, you’ll learn all about the park’s flora and fauna, deeply enriching your experience of Canada’s first national park.

Join us on a group kayak paddle to explore the Bow River. Check out the local wildlife, capture that perfect picture in front of Mount Rundle and maybe even catch a glimpse of our resident beaver, Barry. The early bird gets the worm, and in this case, the kayaker gets to hit the river first (before rentals are open)! Experience paddling the Bow River or Creek with no other boats (apart from your group). It's magic. Connect with nature and other kayakers as you enjoy the serene surroundings and picturesque views. Your friendly hosts will help answer your questions and point you in the right direction. Please note that participants MUST have previous kayak experience and should be physically fit as the experience can be adventurous and you may be required to portage. Double kayaks and single kayaks available. Single Kayaks: Rates are per person. Minimum age: 16 years. Double Kayaks: Rates apply to two people per kayak. Minimum age: 10 years.

Canoeing along the Bow River provides the perfect vantage point for spotting Canada’s famous wildlife. As you paddle, enjoy working as a team with your fellow paddlers while a guide navigates the big canoe and shares stories about the surroundings. While traveling up the scenic river, you can hope to spot elk, bald eagles, beavers, and more—all without the exertion of hiking.

Saddle up for a journey through the celebrated landscape of Banff National Park on this guided horseback riding adventure. Get out of the car and onto the trails of the Bow River or the Spray River and enjoy the area’s beautiful outdoor environment, largely unchanged from the days of the pioneers. This equine-themed odyssey includes a guide, use of a horse, and all necessary equipment. Note: guests must be eight years or older and a maximum of 230lbs (104kg)

The Rockies boast some of Canada’s most spectacular scenery, but the rugged mountain terrain poses a unique set of challenges. On this full-day sightseeing tour, enjoy round-trip travel from Banff and reach far-flung attractions including Lake Louise and the Icefield Parkway in comfort. Stop at picturesque spots including Bow Falls and Moraine Lake, and enjoy personal attention from your guide on this small-group tour—limited to 22 people.

Heart Creek Canyon, which is conveniently located near Banff and Canmore, is a prime destination for canyoning. This half-day adventure is great for beginners who are curious about the sport. Learn to rappel in a safe environment with a certified instructor, and practice your skills as each rappel increases in difficulty. Enjoy magical views throughout the experience.

Delve deep into the Banff National Park and admire the scenery from the water on this canoe adventure. Paddle along the pretty Bow River and listen as your guide sheds light on centuries of Canadian history and heritage. Watch the riverbanks for sightings of native wildlife, a great activity for the whole family.

Discover Banff National Park at your own pace with a ticket for the HopOnBanff bus. Buy your ticket in advance to guarantee your spot on the shuttle that zips around to attractions in the park not easily accessible without wheels. The iconic yellow school bus goes from the town of Banff to Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Lake Louise gondola. You choose where to visit and when on this hop-on hop-off tour.

Johnson Lake in Banff National Park stands out as a top global destination. With its turquoise waters, majestic mountains, and abundant wildlife, it offers a breathtaking experience. Embark on a scenic one and a half hour SUP tour of the lake with us. If you prefer a more relaxed paddling adventure compared to our Intro to SUP lesson, this tour is perfect for you. Our Paddle Canada guides will greet you, address any safety concerns, and lead the tour. Explore the lake, capture stunning photos, and uncover the area's rich history. All equipment is provided for your convenience. Our aim is to see happy faces, witness stunning landscapes, and create unforgettable memories on one of the world's most beautiful lakes.

Discover Lake Louise and Moraine Lake on this guided tour from Banff. Located inside the Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the lakes are well-known for their distinct turquoise hues. Gain insight into the area’s mountaineering history, admire views of the Valley of Ten Peaks and leave with plenty of frame-worthy photos. Round-trip transportation is included on this small-group tour. Don’t miss this seasonal tour that operates from April to November.

Discover the awe-inspiring mountain scenery and massive glaciers of Alberta’s Rocky Mountain region on this full-day Banff glacier tour to the Columbia Icefields. As you follow one of the world’s most famous mountain drives, the Icefield Parkway, you’ll stop at stunning Lake Louise, Crowfoot Glacier and Peyto Lake before the tour culminates in an all-terrain ride on the Ice Explorer through the amazing Columbia Icefields. This day trip includes roundtrip transport from multiple locations in Banff, a knowledgeable guide and buffet lunch.

See the best that Banff National Park and the surrounding wilderness have to offer—including Victoria Glacier, stunning Moraine Lake and towering Takakkaw Falls—on this full-day guided coach tour.  Over the course of the day, discover some of the most awe-inspiring natural scenery of the Canadian Rockies, with time to spot some of the area’s diverse wildlife, plus enjoy lunch and round-trip transport from Banff.