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

Particulars

EVENT DATES

2024

Jun 6-12
Jun 30-Jul 6
Jul 5-11

2025

Dates available upon request

Self-guided and custom trips also available and can start any day. Call or email for details.

TRIP SIZE

4-16 participants

TOTAL DAYS

7 days / 6 nights

ARRIVE / DEPART

Banff / Field

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

Cycling covers hilly terrain. Walking is through mountainous terrain. No previous experience necessary.

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.

Please note: Final itinerary is subject to revision; any changes made are done so in an attempt to provide the best possible trip given route conditions and available services. Due to the nature of our business and exchange rates, prices are subject to change. Due to cancellations and waiting lists, trip availability fluctuates daily. If you have any questions or would like to confirm space on this trip before making your reservation, please contact us at info@great-explorations.com or by telephone at 604.730.1247.

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.


1

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.

2

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.

3

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.

4

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.

5

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.

6

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.

7

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.

Brewster’s Mountain Lodge, Banff

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.


Mountaineer Lodge, Lake Louise

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.


Cathedral Mountain Lodge, Field

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.