Frequently Asked Questions
Below, you’ll find answers to the most common questions you may have. If you still can’t find the answers you’re looking for, feel free to contact us, and we’ll be more than happy to assist you further.
Reservation
It is advisable to make your reservation as early as possible to secure availability and prevent any potential disappointment. Unfortunately, due to limited spaces, we cannot guarantee last-minute availability.
Indeed! We highly recommend making reservations well in advance to ensure your spot, as our tours typically reach full capacity at least 48 hours beforehand. It’s important to note that our driver does not accept walk-ins.
Some of our tours require a minimum of 4 participants to operate. This requirement will be displayed at checkout. If the minimum number of bookings is not met, we will contact you to offer an alternative tour date or offer a full refund.
You will receive an email containing your booking confirmation within minutes. Additionally, we’ll keep you informed about the tour, including any updates or changes if necessary. A friendly reminder is also sent 72 to 48 hours before the scheduled activity.
Absolutely, we collaborate with various partners who can process payments and secure your reservation. Get in touch with them promptly to guarantee availability.
We extend a flexible cancellation policy to enhance your peace of mind. For our shared shuttle tours, you have up to 24 hours prior to the tour to cancel without any penalty. For private tours, we provide a generous 7-day cancellation window, ensuring you have ample time to adjust your plans if needed.
Yes, all guests must review and agree to Into the Wild Tours’ current season Release of Liability, Waiver of Claims, Assumption of Risk and Indemnity Agreement (the “Waiver”) as a condition of participating in any trip with us. If the Waiver is not completed, the individual will not be permitted to participate. The form of the Waiver can be reviewed here.
- By signing the Waiver, you waive your legal rights to sue or claim compensation following an accident. PLEASE READ THE WAIVER CAREFULLY PRIOR TO BOOKING!
- Each adult must complete their own Waiver, and a parent/legal guardian must complete it for their minor child (under 18). We will send you a link to complete your Waiver electronically.
- If you are booking for others, it is your responsibility to ensure you inform them of this waiver requirement and the terms of the Waiver.
- This waiver requirement applies to all participants, regardless of when they are added to the reservation.
- Anyone who does not compete the Waiver will not be permitted to participate in our tour. If anyone in your group has concerns about agreeing to the terms of the Waiver, please cancel your booking within the cancellation period for a full refund. If you are outside your cancelation period, please contact us directly.
- We reserve the right to update our Waiver each season (summer and winter). For bookings made before May 1 (summer) or October 1 (winter), we may provide an updated Waiver for the upcoming season on or before these dates. You must review and agree to the current season Waiver to participate. If you, or anyone who wishes to participate, does not agree with the terms of the current season Waiver, you may cancel your booking within the standard cancellation period for a full refund (if you are outside your cancellation period, please contact us directly). If no updates are made, the Waiver originally signed applies.
Absolutely! We provide a 15% discount for Bow Valley residents. To claim your discount, simply email us with valid proof of residency. Please keep in mind that the discount is applied per person, so each ticket holder must provide their own proof of address.
All bookings are subject to our Booking Terms & Conditions (T&Cs). These are binding on all guests who wish to participate in a reservation. If you are booking for others, you agree to the T&Cs on behalf of yourself and the other guests as their agent. Please read the T&Cs carefully before booking
Preparation
For an enjoyable day, we recommend bringing along comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera. Dressing in layers will help you adapt to any changes in the weather. Feel free to also pack snacks and drinks for your convenience.
While our shuttle tours involve brief walks, factors such as high altitude, cold temperatures, dehydration, or unfamiliar food could impact your experience. It is advisable to consult your doctor for any necessary vaccinations or up-to-date travel information before embarking on your adventure.
Our pickup locations are meant for guests who can walk to the designated areas. Parking at these locations is reserved for hotel guests and subject to availability. For alternative parking options, we recommend the Legacy Trail parking in Canmore or the Train Station parking in Banff, both of which offer free parking.
A Discovery Pass or a Banff National Park Pass is mandatory for all visitors throughout their stay, as stipulated by Parks Canada. These passes can be conveniently purchased online, at Parks Canada’s park gates, and at information centers in Banff and Lake Louise. For further details, feel free to visit: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/visit/passer-passes
While it’s not obligatory, we strongly advise acquiring travel insurance for all our guests exploring Canada. Accidents are unpredictable, and lacking adequate coverage could potentially pose financial challenges. Your peace of mind and financial well-being are of utmost importance to us, and having the appropriate travel insurance ensures that you are safeguarded against any unexpected incidents during your journey.
Tours
Yes, we are! Into the Wild Tours is a proudly local company. As Canadians who have lived in the Bow Valley for years, we started as passionate hikers, exploring every corner of this incredible landscape. Over time, we came together as a team, driven by a shared love for adventure and a desire to bring others into the heart of the wild!
We supply hiking poles, sit pads, blankets, headlamps, as well as ponchos and umbrellas—ensuring you’re well-prepared for whatever the day brings. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or requirement, since we have slight changes from tours to tours.
Yes, we provide hot chocolate, a variety of tea’s from Jolene Tea House and freshly brewed coffee from Eclipse for all our tours.
Yes, we recommend that you always bring bear spray when hiking in Banff National Park. It’s important to be prepared and know the correct steps to take if you encounter wildlife.
It is important to be at the pickup location at the designated time. If you have any questions or are unsure, please confirm with your tour guide or the company. If you do miss it, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation, and Moraine Lake has very limited phone service. There is a public transit option from Lake Louise to Banff Town, but its availability can vary.
Absolutely! Our sightseeing tours offer a fantastic chance for families to delve into the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies together. Our group tours have a minimum age of 6 years, and all ages are welcome for our private tours/transfers.
Appropriate child safety seats are required for children under 6 or weigh less than 40lbs (18 kg).
Wildlife encounters are abundant, showcasing elks, deer, moose, big horn sheep, Pikas, bears, and various other wild animals within the National Parks. However, their sightings are unpredictable, and although our drivers make every effort to pinpoint them, we cannot guarantee such encounters.
Vehicle
Indeed, our tours strive to ensure your utmost comfort throughout the journey.
Absolutely, it is imperative. Ensuring your safety and well-being is our top priority, and we require everyone to wear them.
Our deliberately chosen 15-seat passenger van ensures a more intimate and personalized tours with smaller groups. Be assured that our shuttles are meticulously maintained, professionally driven, and crafted for your utmost comfort.
Safety stands as our utmost priority, ensuring the well-being of our young ones is imperative. As per regulations, children under the age of 6 weighing 18 kg (40 lbs) or less must be secured in an appropriate child safety seat. If possible, kindly bring your child safety seat. In the event you cannot, we do have a limited supply. Please reach out to us in advance to secure one for you.
Unfortunately, we’re unable to accommodate inflatable paddleboards or kayaks due to limited space, as we prioritize storage for amenities to enhance your experience.
We cherish dogs, but unfortunately, due to security and health reasons, we cannot allow them on the tour unless they are certified service dogs. If they fall under this category, please ensure you bring the proper documentation on board.
Moraine Lake & Lake Louise
Moraine Lake Canoe Rental Information
Canoe rentals are offered by Moraine Lake Lodge from mid-June to mid-September at their canoe dock. Rentals start at $160.00 CAD plus tax per canoe for a one-hour rental. Canoes are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Lake Louise Canoe Rental Information
Canoe rentals are available at the Fairmont Lake Louise boathouse from late-May/early-June until mid-October. Rentals start at $165.00 CAD plus tax per canoe for a one-hour rental. Canoes are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
It’s approximately 200 meters to Lake Louise, depending on the particular parking lot in use, and approximately 100 meters to Moraine Lake.
Cell reception is available at Lake Louise; however, Moraine Lake does not have coverage. In case of need, Moraine Lake Lodge provides a public pay phone. Cell reception begins approximately four kilometers down the road towards Lake Louise.
Regrettably, private vehicles are not allowed; access to Moraine Lake is exclusive to shuttle or bus transportation since 2023. Owing to the substantial demand, Moraine Lake Road remains closed to personal vehicles throughout the year.
While the lake remains accessible, the road undergoes a transformation into a cross-country ski trail leading to the avalanche area from mid-October to June 1st. For optimal enjoyment, the ideal time to visit the lake is during the summer months.
There are snack options and hot beverage available at the Moraine Lake Café, open daily from 9 AM to 4 PM.
There are lunch options available at the Fairmont Lake Louise, but limited to availability. We would suggest to book in advance,
They are conveniently situated in close proximity, approximately 14 kilometers apart, and the journey between the two lakes typically spans around 25-30 minutes.
Lake Louise Lakeshore – This accessible stroll allows visitors of all abilities to explore Lake Louise. At the end of the lake you’ll discover the milky creek that gives the lake its magical color.
Length: 2 km one way
Hiking time: 1 hour
Elevation gain: minimal
Fairview Lookout – Leaving from the boathouse on Lake Louise, this short, uphill hike offers you a unique look at both the lake and the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Length: 1 km one way
Hiking time: 45 minute round trip
Elevation gain: 100 m
Consolation Lake – Hiking to Consolation Lakes requires much less effort than most of the Moraine Lake trails, but rewards the hiker with views of high alpine meadows, enormous talus slopes and the Quadra Glacier.
Length: 2.9 km one way
Hiking time: 2 hour round trip
Elevation gain: 65 m
The estimated hiking times provided are suggested by Parks Canada and are approximate. Your actual hiking time may vary depending on your pace, physical abilities, trail conditions, weather, elevation gain, and trail traffic. Please allow extra time to complete your hike and return to the van on time, and be prepared for changing conditions.
Rockpile – This short hike will take you to one of the most iconic Moraine Lake photo locations. You will enjoy unparalleled views of the lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
Length: 0.8 km loop
Hiking time: 30 minute round trip
Elevation gain: 35 m
Moraine Lake Lakeshore – This stroll allows visitors of all abilities to explore Moraine Lake. Along the trail you will gain a magnificent view of Mount Fay and the Fay Glacier.
Length: 1.5 km one way
Hiking time: 45 minute round trip
The estimated hiking times provided are suggested by Parks Canada and are approximate. Your actual hiking time may vary depending on your pace, physical abilities, trail conditions, weather, elevation gain, and trail traffic. Please allow extra time to complete your hike and return to the van on time, and be prepared for changing conditions.
Elevation gain: minimal
Private tours
Yes, we create fully customizable private tours through Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, the Icefields Parkway, and Kananaskis. Our private shuttle service is perfect for larger groups looking for a personalized and unforgettable adventure in the Canadian Rockies.
When you book a private shuttle with us, you’ll have a dedicated driver-guide for the day who will share local insights and ensure a safe, enjoyable journey. We also offer flexible pickup and drop-off options to suit your needs.
Absolutely! Whether you’re drawn to iconic spots like Lake Louise and Emerald Lake or eager to explore hidden gems—our expert team is here to tailor your experience. We offer a range of packages, from sunrise to sunrise, and beyond. Plus, our in-house concierge is ready to help plan every detail, offering personalized recommendations for breathtaking viewpoints, scenic hikes, or tranquil lakeshores.
For larger groups or special events, we can also book multiple private shuttles with options tailored to your needs. Simply reach out to us via email at info@intothewildtours.com, and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.
Please note our cancellation policy for private shuttle experiences are slightly different.
If you cancel 7 days before your tour, you receive the full refund, but cancellation under 7 days is not refundable. We could try to change to date at no cost, but it subject to availability.
Unanswered questions?
It is crucial to emphasize our commitment to transparency, ensuring that there are no concealed fees from our side. If you wish to purchase snacks or rent equipment, such as kayaks, please be aware that payments for these services are to be made directly to the third-party providers.
If you have any inquiries or require further information, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Feel free to drop us an email, and we’ll promptly respond to address your questions or concerns. Your satisfaction and understanding are of utmost importance to us, and we are here to assist you every step of the way.
Although tipping is not mandatory, it is genuinely appreciated by our dedicated drivers who work hard to make your experience memorable. The decision to tip is entirely personal, and there is no pressure or obligation to do so. Your comfort and satisfaction are our priorities, and we want your journey with us to be as enjoyable as possible.
If you’d like to learn more about our company’s values, mission, and what drives us to create unforgettable experiences in the Canadian Rockies, visit our About page.
