Lake Louise, Emerald Lake and Takakkaw Falls: Banff, Yoho and Kootenay Day Tour

Three national parks in one day: Banff, Yoho and Kootenay, with a family-owned operator and certified local guides doing the driving and the commentary. The groups are small, and the guide handles planning and logistics. The main stops are Lake Louise, Emerald Lake, the Natural Bridge and Marble Canyon, plus either Takakkaw Falls or Peyto Lake depending on the date. Takakkaw Falls, a 373-metre waterfall, can only be reached from mid or late June to mid-October. When it is closed for the season, the day swaps it for Peyto Lake on the Icefields Parkway, with a short walk to the lookout. Emerald Lake is a year-round stop in Yoho, with trails around the water and room for a picnic. At the Natural Bridge, the Kicking Horse River cuts through the rock. In Kootenay, the Marble Canyon trail takes under 40 minutes and passes waterfalls, including Marble Canyon Falls, and tall rock walls. Lake Louise has its own stop, and the route passes Castle Mountain on the way. A break in Lake Louise Village leaves time to buy food, snacks or souvenirs, or to visit the Visitor Information Centre for a National Park stamp. The tour includes scenic walks, chances to see wildlife and help with photography.