Expedition Details
Embark on an unforgettable adventure amid the snowcapped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. In Banff, Yoho, and Jasper National Parks, explore a stunning wilderness of hanging glaciers, rushing rivers, and jewel-toned lakes. Hike in blooming alpine meadows surrounded by glacier-carved mountains, and search for elk, bighorn sheep, bears, and more. Feel the thunderous spray of waterfalls and watch the sun set over Lake Louise. Along the famed Icefields Parkway, encounter an abundance of geological wonders, including the largest ice cap in the Canadian Rockies.
Trip Highlights
- Explore the natural wonders of Banff, Yoho, and Jasper National Parks, spotting elk, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, bears, and more.
- Hike amid a pristine wilderness of soaring peaks, hanging glaciers, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes.
- Encounter the Columbia Icefield, the largest ice cap in the Canadian Rockies, as well as Takakkaw Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Canada.
- Trace the spectacular shoreline of Lake Louise, ringed by mountains, and float on the turquoise waters of Bow River.
Itinerary - 6 Days
Day 1 — Calgary, Canada/Banff
Meet the group in Banff, located in the heart of Canada’s first national park, and home to some of the world’s most dramatic mountain scenery. Float down the Bow River beneath towering, snowcapped peaks, and search for elk, coyotes, bears, and bighorn sheep. Tonight, gather for a welcome reception at our hotel, followed by dinner at a nearby restaurant.
The Rimrock Resort Hotel (L,D)
Day 2 — Banff National Park/Lake Louise
Spectacular scenery awaits at Sunshine Meadows (7,300 feet), which straddles the Continental Divide as well as the boundary between Alberta and British Columbia. Learn about native flora and fauna from our expert while hiking among alpine meadows and glacial lakes set against snowy peaks. This afternoon, keep an eye out for wildlife during the drive to Banff’s most famous lake, Lake Louise, and our historic, chateau-style hotel.
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (B,L,D)
Day 3 — Banff and Yoho National Parks
This morning, enjoy the alpenglow as the sun rises above jagged peaks. Head to Moraine Lake, set in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, and take in the incredible surrounding views. Explore the lake’s pine-shrouded shores, and watch for eagles, Clark’s nutcrackers, and other birds. Then venture into Yoho National Park to visit Takakkaw Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Canada. Hike around stunning Emerald Lake before returning to Lake Louise.
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (B,L,D)
Day 4 — Yoho National Park/Columbia Icefield/Jasper National Park
This morning, travel along the stunning Icefields Parkway, where the dramatic alpine landscape unfolds with rugged peaks, cascading waterfalls, glaciers, and lakes. Continue to Columbia Icefield, the largest ice cap in the Canadian Rockies, and the Athabasca Glacier, which is some 10,000 years old. Walk on the ancient glacier and experience up-close its power and fragility.
The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (B,L)
Day 5 — Jasper National Park
Spend the day exploring Jasper’s geological marvels. Discover the sheer limestone walls of Maligne Canyon, carved by the fast-flowing river below, and the mirrored waters of Maligne Lake, the largest glacier-fed lake in the Canadian Rockies and the second largest in the world. Explore on foot while our expert interprets the fascinating geological and human history of the area.
The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (B,L,D)
Day 6 — Jasper National Park/Banff
Embark on a walk along the Cavell Meadows loop and discover an iceberg-filled pond formed by the retreating Angel Glacier. Walk onto the moraine for a dramatic view of Mount Edith Cavell. Later, return to Banff where our expedition ends.
(B,L)
Related Trips
View LargerNational Geographic Expert
Ken Brushett
With degrees in biology and education, Ken Brushett has been introducing visitors to the Canadian Rockies for 15 years. Accredited as a Professional National Parks Interpreter by the Interpretive Guides Association of Banff, Alberta, and with more than 75 guided hiking trips under his belt, Ken knows the region intimately and is delighted to share his knowledge of its wildlife, geology, and history.
Ken will join the following departures:
Jul 08 - 13, 2012 • Aug 19 - 24, 2012Expedition Dates 
Expedition Costs
What To Expect
This expedition is designed to accommodate guests at different activity levels. On days that include hikes, there are options for easy walks of one to three miles, or moderate hikes of four miles or more, depending on your preference.
