Banff National Park, Johnston Canyon Day Trip from Banff/Calgary

4.9
(125 reviews)
Calgary, Canada

7 to 11 hours (approximately)
Offered in: English

See the very best of Banff National Park in one unforgettable day. Departing from Calgary or Banff, this full-day guided experience takes you through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, where towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and iconic viewpoints steal the show! Stop at must-see highlights like Surprise Corner, Bow Falls, the Hoodoos, and Lake Minnewanka, with plenty of time for photos along the way. Upgrade your day with an optional Banff Gondola ride for sweeping mountain views, explore the charming Town of Banff, and walk through the dramatic scenery of Johnston Canyon. With expert commentary, flexible pick-up locations, and a thoughtfully paced itinerary, this tour is the easiest way to experience Banff’s magic in just one day!

What's Included

Travel with an expert Tour Guide/Driver Guide for a Smooth and Insightful Journey
Ride in Comfortable and Professionally Maintained Vehicles (vehicle based on number of guests)
Refreshing Bottled water
In winter, ice cleats are provided and are to be used at your own discretion and risk.
Personal Expenses
Gratuities (Appreciate and recommend for 15%-20% per person for the guide/driver)
Meals, Food and Drinks
Banff Gondola Ticket&Banff Upper Hot Springs (optional activity)
Travel insurance

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point
You can choose from multiple locations at checkout.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 7 to 11 hours (approximately)
  • (Pass by)

    Begin your day with a convenient pick-up from Calgary or Banff and travel into the heart of Banff National Park. Sit back and enjoy the drive through snow-dusted valleys and towering mountain scenery as your guide shares insight into the region’s history, wildlife, and landscapes.

    Admission ticket free
  • Banff (Pass by)

    Itinerary from 12/31/2025-04/30/2026: Calgary/Banff → Bow Falls and Surprise Point (30 mins) → Banff Gondola (optional, 90 mins) → Banff Village (120 mins, includes lunch and free time at Banff Hot Springs/Banff Winter Sleigh Ride) → Banff Itinerary from 05/01/2026-10/12/2026: Calgary/Banff →Banff National Park → Banff Gondola (optional, approx. 90 mins) → Hoodoos (15 mins) → Bow Falls (15 mins) → Surprise Corner (15 mins) → Town of Banff ( Lunch optional, 75 mins) → Johnston Canyon (60 mins) → Banff

    Admission ticket free
  • 1
    Bow Falls

    Itinerary from 12/31/2025-04/30/2026: Itinerary from 05/01/2026-10/12/2026: Continue to Bow Falls, where powerful glacial waters tumble over broad rock steps, creating one of Banff’s most impressive natural landmarks!

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2
    Surprise Corner

    Itinerary from 12/31/2025-04/30/2026: Itinerary from 05/01/2026-10/12/2026: Visit Surprise Corner for a classic Banff photo stop, offering a dramatic view of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel set against the surrounding mountains.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3
    Banff Gondola

    Itinerary from 12/31/2025-04/30/2026: Itinerary from 05/01/2026-10/12/2026: (Optional) Upgrade your experience with a ride on the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the Bow Valley and surrounding peaks, explore the boardwalk, and take in the alpine scenery from above (weather permitting).

    1 hour 30 minutes Admission ticket not included
  • 4
    Town of Banff

    Itinerary from 12/31/2025-04/30/2026: (120 minutes) Itinerary from 05/01/2026-10/12/2026: (75 minutes) Arrive in the Town of Banff for free time to explore at your own pace. Stroll along Banff Avenue, browse boutique shops, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, or choose an optional winter experience such as the Banff Upper Hot Springs or a traditional winter sleigh ride. After a full day of exploring, return to Banff for drop-off.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • Banff National Park (Pass by)

    Itinerary from 05/01/2026-10/12/2026: Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is a breathtaking wonderland of vividly colored lakes, towering mountains, and endless outdoor adventures. As Canada’s first national park and the third in the world, it boasts a rich heritage and unparalleled natural beauty. Spanning 6,641 square kilometers (2,564 square miles) of rugged terrain, Banff is home to majestic peaks, ancient glaciers, lush forests, and winding rivers. Its easy access and proximity to untouched wilderness make it a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide. Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, exploring vibrant meadows, or soaking in the awe-inspiring views, Banff offers an unforgettable experience. Come and immerse yourself in nature’s masterpiece!

    Admission ticket free
  • 5
    Hoodoos Trail

    Itinerary from 05/01/2026-10/12/2026: Stop at the Hoodoos viewpoint to see striking sandstone pillars shaped by centuries of erosion. These unique formations offer excellent photo opportunities and a fascinating look at Banff’s geology.

    15 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 6
    Johnston Canyon

    Itinerary from 05/01/2026-10/12/2026: End the day with a scenic walk through Johnston Canyon. Follow elevated boardwalks along the canyon walls, passing waterfalls and rushing streams in one of Banff’s most accessible and picturesque hikes.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • Banff (Pass by)

    After a full day of exploration, relax on the return journey to Banff with lasting memories of the Canadian Rockies.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Age and Safety: Customers under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Pregnant women may join if under 24 weeks by the trip's end.
  • City Passes or personal attraction tickets are not accepted. Admission and meal prices are subject to change without prior notice. Refunds will not be issued for price decreases, and price matching for attraction tickets is not available.
Supplied by Jupiter Legend Corporation
Show 14 more

Tags

Day Trips
Nature and Wildlife Tours
Full-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private and Luxury
Walking Tours
Nature Walks
Seasonal
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Show more

Rating

4.9 Based on 125 125 reviews
5 stars
117
4 stars
6
3 stars
1
2 stars
0
1 star
1
from per person
Was {{formatPrice(summaryFromPriceBeforeDiscount, currency, 2)}}