Embark on a high-altitude adventure. Explore the scenic roads, forested walking paths and spirited waterways of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks. Cycle along the most spectacular parkway in the country, lined with dazzling snow-capped peaks and abundant wildlife. Retreat to the peace and tranquility of the walking trail as you discover stunning mountain passes rising from the shores of iridescent blue lakes. Feel the energy of the living landscape as you paddle the glacier-fed waters clear enough to reflect the wooded slopes around you. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the ancient rocky landscape by day, and enjoy the luxurious comfort of mountain lodges at night. The magnificence of these dramatic surroundings will leave an impression that is bound to last a lifetime.
Location
Banff
Banff, AB, Canada
Starting Location
Lake Louise
Lake Louise, AB, Canada
Day 3-4
Yoho National Park
Takakkaw Falls, Columbia-Shuswap A, BC, Canada
Day 6
Field
Field, BC, Canada
End Location
What’s Included in the Cost of Your Trip?
INCLUDED IN REGULAR TRIP
Services of one or more experienced Great Explorations guides
Support vehicle
6 nights lodging
6 breakfast, 2 lunches and 5 dinners
Entrance fees for selected historical sites and museums
Detailed map and route instructions
All baggage transportation
All transportation from initial meeting point to final drop-off (see arrive/depart cities)
Particulars
EVENT DATES
Jun 8-14
Jul 2-8
Jul 7-13
Jun 6-12
Jun 31-Jul 6
Jul 5-11
Self-guided and custom trips also available and can start any day. Call or email for details.
TRIP SIZE
TOTAL DAYS
ARRIVE / DEPART
ACTIVITY LEVEL
Cycling: 45 to 50 km average (28 to 31 miles)
Walking: 10 to 18 km (6 to 11 miles)
White Water Rafting: Along the Kicking Horse River, Through Class II to IV + rapids
TERRAIN
COST
Land Cost:
CAD $3,450*
Includes 6B/2L/5D
Single Supplement:
CAD $870*
Bike Rentals
Hybrid or Racing Bikes: CAD$140
E-Bikes: CAD$240
E-bikes are generally available but are on an ‘on request basis ‘ and will be confirmed on receipt of your booking registration. E-bikes provided are the best rentals available in the region. Our regular fleet of hybrid and race bikes are fun to ride and light and fast, but if having an e-bike will make your trip, we’ll do our best to provide. E-bike rentals are non-refundable.
*Prices before tax. Alberta applies a 5% GST.
Getting to Banff
There is regularly scheduled air service to Calgary from across North America, with non-stop flights to Calgary from all major Canadian and many US centres. Additionally, non-stop international flights are available from London and Frankfurt. A number of companies offer an airport shuttle service to Banff from the Calgary Airport.
Day 1
Banff
This vibrant little town is at the centre of some of the most scenic cycling routes found anywhere in the Rocky Mountains National Parks. Stroll about town searching for that perfect souvenir or visiting the excellent museums. Our meeting time is at 4 pm for those that want to go for a warm-up ride out to the first hot mineral springs discovered in 1883. At 7 pm, we’ll meet up for a welcome reception and then enjoy dinner at a favourite restaurant.
Day 2
Banff
Pedal the scenic network of roads around Banff – exploring Tunnel Mountain and the weirdly shaped Hoodoos. Add on a loop up to Lake Minnewanka, one of the largest and deepest lakes in the Rockies. Once known as Devil’s Lake or Cannibal Lake, Minnewanka is the site of many ghostly occurrences in native legends.
Day 3
Lake Louise
Continue your cycling journey north along the Bow Valley Parkway to the staggeringly beautiful scenery of Lake Louise – the gem of Banff National Park. As we twist and climb along the Parkway take in the magnificent views of the Sawback, Sundance and the Massive mountain ranges. Upon arrival in Lake Louise, soak up the natural splendour, of the area.
Day 4
Lake Louise
You have a number of choices today to explore the incredible beauty of Lake Louise. Step out of your lodge and begin with a hike to the highest teahouse in Canada, hidden in a picturesque alpine valley. Take in the Plain of Six Glaciers and the Beehive formations. You could also take a canoe onto the lake to enjoy a leisurely paddle on the crystalline Lake Louise.
Day 5
Kicking Horse River
Experience the thrill of whitewater paddling on one of Canada’s premier whitewater rivers. Feel yourself whisked downstream by the power of the Kicking Horse River as it carves a path through the rugged wilderness. Afterwards, we will transfer to our lodge for the evening.
Day 6
Yoho National Park
Beginning with a transfer to Takkakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park, we will embark on an exhilarating trek considered to be one of the 5 best hikes in the Rockies. Enjoy the rugged, rocky trail along the breath-taking glaciers before descending the tree-lined path passing hidden lakes and glacier-fed rivers. End your day at the beautiful Cathedral Mountain Chalets for a quiet evening of relaxation and dinner in the acclaimed dining room.
Day 7
Take a final stroll through this unforgettable landscape before your transfer arrives to return you to Banff and onward to home or your next adventure.
This western-inspired inn is located in the heart of downtown Banff and is surrounded by the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Relax in an authentic Western atmosphere, with each guest room featuring historic photographs and artwork and handcrafted custom log furnishings. Many of these romantic rooms feature Jacuzzi tubs and unyielding magnificent views.
Nestled in a forest with tremendous views of Mt. Temple and its summit glacier, this charming lodge offers a relaxing atmosphere for your Rocky Mountain adventure. Unwind in the whirlpool and steam room area after your day in the fresh mountain air. Though the property feels secluded, it is a scenic 5 minute walk from a variety of services and shopping in the Village of Lake Louise.
Nestled in the forest at the edge of the glacier-fed Kicking Horse River, the lodge guestrooms and cabins are perfectly appointed to create an oasis of luxury, including handmade log beds, down duvets, wood burning and gas fireplaces, soaker tubs and more. Guests can enjoy canoeing on turquoise Moraine Lake.
