ROAM Transit Guide
The public bus system connecting Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise, and popular attractions. Routes, schedules, fares, and tips from locals who use it daily.
ROAM Routes & Schedules
2025 season routes with fares and operating hours
Lake Louise Express
The most popular route for visitors. Connects Banff to Lake Louise Village and Lake Louise Lakeshore. This is ROAM's longest route at 53km.
Pro Tip: Book your reservation 48 hours in advance through the ROAM website or Transit app. Arrive 20 minutes early. The $30 Day Pass includes this route plus unlimited local travel.
Canmore - Banff Regional
Connects Canmore to Banff. Popular with commuters and visitors staying in the more affordable Canmore area. Carries up to 6 bikes per bus.
Lake Minnewanka
Access Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, Johnson Lake, and Cascade Ponds without needing a car. Show your Lake Minnewanka Cruise ticket to ride free!
Johnston Canyon
Direct service to Johnston Canyon via Highway 1 and Castle Junction. Perfect for hiking the famous canyon trail without dealing with parking.
Cyclist Special: During vehicle-free periods on Bow Valley Parkway (May 1-June 25 & Aug 28-Oct 2), this is the best route for car-free cycling to Johnston Canyon.
Banff Local Routes
Route 1: Downtown Banff to Banff Gondola (Sulphur Mountain). Route 2: Tunnel Mountain area including campgrounds and hotels. Free for Banff residents with SmartCard.
Fares & Passes
| Route | Adult | Senior/Youth | Under 12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local (Routes 1, 2, 6) | $2.00 | $1.00 | Free |
| Route 3 (Canmore-Banff) | Standard | Standard | Free |
| Route 9 (Johnston Canyon) | $5.00 | $2.50 | Free |
| Route 8X (Lake Louise) | $12.50 | $6.25 | Free |
System Wide Day Pass
$30
Includes one round-trip reservation to Lake Louise (Route 8X) plus unlimited travel on all other ROAM routes the same day. Best value if you're visiting Lake Louise.
Free Transit Options
Banff Residents: Free local routes with SmartCard
Campground Guests: Free from Tunnel Mountain & Two Jack Lake campgrounds (summer)
Canmore Locals: Free on Grassi Lakes, Quarry Lake, Nordic Centre routes (May-Oct)
Payment Methods
Insider Tips
- Download the Transit app for real-time bus locations and fare payment. Much better than waiting blindly at stops.
- Book Route 8X reservations early - especially summer weekends. Tickets release 48 hours in advance at 8 AM.
- Arrive 20 minutes early if you have a reservation. No-shows lose their spot.
- Free parking at Bear Street Parkade and Train Station lots (9-hour limit). Park here and take ROAM to avoid downtown parking fees.
- Bikes welcome: Local routes carry 3 bikes, regional routes carry 6. No reservation needed for bike space.
- All buses are wheelchair accessible and allow crated pets and strollers.
- No change given when paying cash to the driver. Have exact fare ready.
- Winter service continues but Route 8X shifts to local Lake Louise Village-Lakeshore service only after Oct 14.
Official ROAM Transit
For the most current schedules, route maps, and to book your Route 8X reservation, visit the official ROAM Transit website. You can also download the Transit app for real-time tracking and mobile fare payment.
Visit roamtransit.comROAM Does Not Go to Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake Road is closed to all traffic except Parks Canada shuttles and licensed tour operators. To visit Moraine Lake, you need either a Parks Canada shuttle reservation or a commercial tour. See all Moraine Lake shuttle options.