The Best Banff Tours For Winter Photographers
Discover the best winter photography spots in Banff National Park. Join a Banff Adventures tour to visit Lake Louise, Abraham Lake, and more.
Banff National Park and the surrounding Rockies are packed with picture-perfect locations, making it a bucket-list destination for many professional and amateur photographers alike. While many photogs might prefer to forge their own path, a Banff tour is an easy opportunity to snap some stellar shots, while also enjoying everything that the area has to offer!
Are you looking for a Banff tour that puts you in the heart of the Park’s best photo spots? The Banff Adventures team has got you covered! Keep reading to learn more about our favourite photo spots–plus some unique experiences that help create photo-worthy moments.
3 Top Spots for Stunning Winter Photo Ops
There's no question that Banff National Park and the surrounding areas are filled with spots to capture shots worthy of National Geographic. Here are our top picks for winter photography locations in Banff:
Abraham Lake
Likely the most Instagram-famous option on this list, the frozen methane bubbles underneath the surface at Abraham Lake make the perfect winter photograph. Do you specialize in breathtaking macro photos? The lake’s unique ice patterns make the perfect subject. Interested in a stunning landscape shot? Abraham Lake’s interplay between foreground and background can’t be beat.
But here’s the truth: Getting to this location can be difficult, especially if you don’t know the ins and outs of the area. That’s where we come in! Our Icefields Parkway & Ice Bubbles at Abraham Lake tour takes you directly to this world-renowned photography spot, where you can safely walk (or skate!) on the lake’s surface and capture the bubbles from every angle. You’ll also snowshoe to the breathtaking Peyto Lake viewpoint—another great opportunity to snap the perfect landscape picture.
Interested in learning more? Read our previous blog post: “Guide to Abraham Lake Ice Bubbles: How to See Them in Winter.”
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is the iconic Banff shot. With icy glacier water, perfect peaks, and stunning historic buildings, composing the ideal picture is easy. Plus, if you are lucky, you might even catch an ice skater delicately gliding across the ice, making for the perfect action shot. Here’s our insider tip: Lake Louise is filled with shoreline rocks and snow-covered trees—don’t ignore these elements! They make the perfect foreground anchors and help create depth in your photos.
At Banff Adventures, we offer several winter sightseeing tours that include Lake Louise:
- Discover Lake Louise & Yoho: This full-day tour takes you through all the beautiful landscapes of Banff, Lake Louise, and Yoho National Park. For photographers, this tour includes secret photo spots, helping you to capture an image that truly stands out.
- Lake Louise & Icefields Parkway: One of the most scenic drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway is a dream for photographers. This tour takes you to three different lakes, several amazing viewpoints, and more!
- Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon Combo: Looking to fill your camera roll? Maximize your experience with our Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon experience package, which combines two of Banff’s most popular attractions into one tour.
Not sure which Banff tour is right for you? Explore our options on our website or contact our office today for more information!
Sulphur Mountain
The Banff Gondola gives every photographer—regardless of hiking ability—access to 2,280 meters of elevation and panoramic views. With the beauty of Banff spread out before your eyes, the shooting opportunities are endless! While this location is beautiful no matter what time you visit, we recommend planning your visit for right before sunset to take advantage of the stunning golden hour light. For videographers, try setting up a time-lapse at the top to capture some truly amazing footage.
Considering adding this spot to your list? Remember: Banff Gondola passes must be pre-booked. For more information about opening hours, booking your pass, and accompanying experiences, visit the Things to Do page on our website!
Ready to Capture Your Banff Adventure?
Whether you're a seasoned landscape photographer or just starting to explore the creative side of travel, Banff Adventures makes it easy to access these world-class photography locations with expert guidance, safe logistics, and insider knowledge. Book your Banff tour through our website today!
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