Welcome to the Kamloops to Lake Louise Tour
Set out on a scenic drive from Kamloops to Lake Louise with this self-guided tour through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. The journey unfolds at The Last Spike, where Canada’s transcontinental railway was completed. The Spiral Tunnels showcase a marvel of engineering deep in the mountains. Rogers Pass offers rugged peaks and rich history, once a vital route through the Rockies. Lake Louise awaits with its turquoise waters and stunning alpine backdrop. Experience history, nature, and breathtaking views all in one drive.
This is not an entrance ticket to attractions along the route. Check opening hours before your visit.
About the Tour
Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map all in one.
Travel from Kamloops to Lake Louise through the stunning landscapes of British Columbia and Alberta with this self-guided driving tour. Follow the Thompson River as it winds through Kamloops, passing Monte Creek and Pritchard Bridge before reaching Chase and the shimmering waters of Little Shuswap. Learn about conservationist Roderick Haig Brown and explore the beauty of Shuswap Lake.
Sorrento and Salmon Arm offer incredible lake views before the road leads to Sicamous, the houseboating capital of Canada. Continue through Yard Creek toward a key piece of Canadian history—The Last Spike—where the Canadian Pacific Railway was completed. Then, take in the dramatic cascades of Crazy Creek Falls and explore the fairy-tale setting of the Enchanted Forest.
Griffin Lake and Three Valley Lake introduce you to the mountainous terrain ahead, leading to Three Valley Gap, where sheer cliffs meet crystal-clear waters. Eagle Pass marks the gateway to the Monashee Mountains before reaching Revelstoke, a town rich in railway history and adventure. Cross the Columbia River, then head toward the breathtaking scenery of Glacier National Park.
Rogers Pass, one of the most challenging and scenic mountain crossings, brings you face-to-face with towering peaks and vast glaciers. As the road descends, Kinbasket Lake glistens in the distance, and the Columbia River Bridge leads to Golden, a charming town nestled in the Rocky Mountain Trench.
Continue along the Kicking Horse Highway, stopping at Wapta Falls for a short hike to a spectacular waterfall. Field and Mt. Burgess provide more incredible scenery before ascending Kicking Horse Pass. The Spiral Tunnels showcase a fascinating feat of engineering as trains navigate steep mountain terrain.
Wapta Lake’s serene waters signal the approach to the grand finale—Lake Louise. Surrounded by towering peaks and famous for its turquoise waters, this alpine gem is the perfect end to your journey. Cross the BC-Alberta border and continue onto the Icefields Parkway, where even more adventures await!
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Where To Start?
We recommend Starting From:
Kamloops to Lake Louise: MPF3+579 Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada
Lake Louise to Kamloops: CRHF+GHV Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good Wi-Fi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
The driving distance is approximately 350-400 kilometers (220-250 miles), primarily via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) east.
The drive from Kamloops to Lake Louise typically takes around 4 to 5 hours without major stops. With our Self-Guided Driving Tour, you’ll want to allow extra time to enjoy the scenic viewpoints, mountain towns, and national park stops along the way — all with GPS-triggered narration that brings the journey to life.
The Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) offers one of the most scenic drives in western Canada, and our self-guided tour follows this exact route. You’ll experience the dramatic beauty of Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park, plus the transition from BC’s interior plateau into the heart of the Canadian Rockies — all enhanced by engaging audio commentary.
With our Self-Guided Driving Tour, you’ll discover hidden stories and must-see spots like Revelstoke, Rogers Pass, and the mountain town of Golden. Optional detours take you to Yoho National Park’s gems like Emerald Lake and the Natural Bridge — all at your own pace, with the tour guiding you turn by turn.
Yes, you’ll gain significant elevation as you travel from Kamloops into the Canadian Rockies, especially as you approach Rogers Pass and then descend towards Lake Louise. This elevation change contributes to the cooler temperatures and potential for snow in the mountains.
In late April, activities might be somewhat limited due to lingering snow and ice. However, you can typically enjoy:
- Walking around the frozen or partially frozen lake.
- Admiring the views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
- Short, lower elevation hikes (check trail conditions for snow and ice).
- Potentially snowshoeing on some trails.
- Visiting the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Tours are valid forever.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or Wi-Fi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
