Best Bus Tours in the Canadian Rockies

Some areas of the Canadian Rockies are especially well-suited to explore by bus, because of the scenery, the convenience, or limited parking access.

Icefields Parkway (Highway 93)

Bus Route:
- Lake Louise - Jasper
Why it's ideal by bus:
- One of the most scenic drives in the world.
- Glaciers, turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and towering peaks.
- Stress free experience without driving yourself.
Great Bus Stops: Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, Mistaya Canyon, Athabasca Falls, and Columbia Icefield.

Banff National Park

Best Areas to Tour:
Lake Louise & Moraine Lake – Limited parking makes bus tours ideal.
Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) – Wildlife sightings common.
Minnewanka Loop – Short scenic drive with historical interest.

Jasper National Park

Top Areas:
Maligne Lake Road – Wildlife, Medicine Lake, and the iconic Maligne Lake.
Athabasca Falls – Accessible and dramatic.
Miette Hot Springs (seasonal) – Great as part of a combo tour.

Yoho National Park (in BC, near Lake Louise)

Top Areas:
Emerald Lake – Quiet and pristine.
Natural Bridge & Takakkaw Falls – Spectacular, especially late spring/summer.
Why by bus:
Narrow, winding roads to Takakkaw can be tricky in private vehicles.

Kootenay & Waterton (Less Common, but Scenic)

Kootenay National Park:
Radium Hot Springs, Marble Canyon, Paint Pots.
Waterton Lakes National Park: Often part of extended bus tours from Calgary or Alberta-based groups. More niche, but good for guided multi-day tours.
Honorable Mention:
Calgary to Banff/Canmore - Not in the mountains, but bus tours along this stretch provide scenic introductions to the Rockies.
Some stop at sights like Yamnuska, Canmore, or Banff townsite for orientation would be great. Book Your Canadian Rockies BusCanadian Rockies Bus Bookings include All taxes, fees and handling charges.