Canadian Rockies Discovery Tour
days
starting from US $2,690per person
Get this trip plan customized to cover everything you want to see.
Learn which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
Explore Banff And Jasper National Parks
Explore the best of the Canadian Rockies National Parks on a week-long independent vacation. See Lake Louise, Banff and Jasper National Parks, whilst enjoying your choice of guided activities. Everything is pre-planned, including transfers, the best Canadian Rockies hotels, and unique tours. Choose from sightseeing, wildlife viewing, train experiences, guided hikes, and more.
Trip at a glance
8 Days / 7 Nights
Arrive Calgary → 3 nights Banff → 3 nights Jasper → 1 night Calgary → Depart Calgary
What you'll love about this trip
Stunning glaciers, emerald lakes, and forests of the Canadian Rockies
Amazing photographic opportunities
Great choice of activities catered to your interests
Discover Canada’s National Parks
Common Questions
You'll be staying at various local three to five star hotels or lodges along your route, some of which are very iconic properties with great locations, views and history. All our accommodations are carefully selected by our Canadian Insiders. We'll make sure that wherever you stay, you get the best value and comfort based on the seasonal availability.
Typically we include and pre-book all your main trip components so you don't have to worry about your connections, places to stay, or activities on your trip. You'll receive a complete travel package with detailed documentation and our Canadian Insiders remain at your disposal before and during your trip to answer your questions.
Your trip can be as rich as you'd like, and completely arranged around your interests and needs. The greatest benefit of working with us is our local knowledge. You can request your personalized trip plan to decide what you'd like to see and do.
If your trip is a special occasion, we'll make sure it is unforgettable. Or if you're traveling with a group, we'll take care of the logistics so you can share time together stress-free.
Canada has a network of spectacular roadways, train routes, ferry crossings, and float planes. We can arrange for you to travel by car or to sit back and relax.
Because most Canadians typically do not use the train for commuting (as in the US or Europe), the two main rail providers here are driven by tourism. You'll experience the romance of true trans-continental rail travel, with a wide selection of services, accommodation types, and great food.
Featured train experiences:
- VIA Rail is Canada's national train provider, with routes running Coast to Coast and through remote parts of northern Canada. The type of train depends on your journey, and can vary from the classic trans-continental sleeper trains to daylight trains with overnight stops.
That depends on the destination and type. As a rule, the main feeding and migration seasons are best for wildlife experiences. Tell us which animals interest you and we'll make your trip coincide with the best viewing season.
With the exception of our guided wildlife trips, our vacations are not typically 'escorted.' We combine the best of both worlds – the reassurance of seamless connections, customer service support, and scheduled activities, plus the freedom of 'independent' travel. You are not tied into a specific group, or a rigid daily itinerary. This allows us to personalize your trip to suit your occasion, interests, and timeframe.
The temperature varies from mild to hot, depending on location. Northern Canada will range between 50°F to 64°F (10°C – 18°C) in summer. The interior of BC, prairies, Ontario and Quebec can reach temperatures around 95°F (35°C). Canada's west coast, mountain regions, and Maritimes enjoy milder summer temperatures. They range on average from 59°F to 77°F (15°C – 25°C).
All our trips can be customized to fit your schedule and budget. The price depends on travel season, train service, hotel level, and the sightseeing tours you choose. Request your personalized trip plan which will provide you with a detailed cost estimate.
This trip in pictures
About the Trains
Read about the trains you will be travelling on during this trip, learn about onboard services and see inside the trains.
VIA Rail
VIA Rail trains take passengers across the vast country of Canada through some of the most amazing scenery in North America. The service includes sleeper cars, gourmet meals, and lounge and viewing areas.
Accommodations
Below you'll find examples of this trip's accommodations. Please call us for the full list and to personalize your experience.
The Banff Caribou Lodge And Spa
An example of our Comfort accommodations
After a full day of skiing, hiking and sightseeing in the mountains it is wonderful to retreat to this quiet mountain lodge and relax in your comfortable room. Soak your muscles in the jetted whirlpool or get a massage at the Red Earth Spa. The hotel is also home to one of the most popular steakhouses in Canada, so treat yourself to a special meal while you watch the sunset over the mountains.
Rimrock Resort
An example of our Superior and Deluxe accommodations
The stunning 4.5 star Rimrock Resort is built into the side of a mountain, offering gorgeous panoramic views over the Bow Valley from the large windows in the main lobby. The hotel is a fantastic example of Rocky Mountain luxury, with an upscale atmosphere and warm, welcoming service.
Fairmont Banff Springs
An example of our Deluxe accommodations
Perched above the town of Banff and surrounded by lush forests and the rushing Bow River, the Banff Springs is a stately, beautiful hotel designed in the style of a Scottish Baronial Castle. From the expansive dining hall to the outdoor swimming pool to the fully equipped gym and the terrace with mountain views, staying at this hotel will make you feel like royalty. At the Banff Springs you can also enjoy many activities, including skiing, golf, spa treatments and much more.
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
Sample Itinerary
Think of this itinerary as just a starting point. Our experienced Canadian Insiders will create a personalized experience for you that matches your schedule, travel style and budget.
Welcome to Calgary! Upon arrival, meet your transfer at the Calgary International Airport and travel through the Canadian Rocky Mountains to your Banff accommodation.
Welcome to Banff, the mountain playground of the world! The townsite of Banff, established in 1885, is the main commercial center in Banff National Park. In 1984, Banff was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for the mountain landscapes containing peaks, glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, canyons and limestone caves as well as ancient fossil beds. Enjoy your afternoon and evening exploring the town.
Feature Dinner in Banff
We want to make sure your trip gets off to a great start! Enjoy a delicious meal in a great setting that ensures you make memories as your trip begins.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 2 – Discover Banff National Park
Head out today and discover the beauty the Canadian Rocky Mountain parks offer.
You have 3 options to choose from today:
• Option 1: Discover Grizzly Bears, Lakes and Waterfalls
This fantastic full day tour includes a visit to an incredible grizzly bear habitat, where resident and orphaned grizzly bear, Boo, lives and plays. What an amazing way to see the icon of the wilderness! Next you head to Kicking Horse Resort and ride the gondola to the top of Kicking Horse Mountain. Here you will dine at Canada's highest restaurant for a gourmet lunch (included). Stops also include the beautiful Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls and the spectacular Spiral Railway Tunnels in Yoho National Park.
Activity rating: Easy
• Option 2: Banff National Park Guided Hike
Hiking is one of the best ways to explore the natural landscape and beauty of Banff National Park. Based on the day of the week you will get to enjoy a classic hike in the Canadian Rockies led by a professional guide. Hikes will vary in difficulty and length and include a box lunch, bottled water, use of hiking poles and day pack.
Activity rating: Moderate–Challenging
• Option 3: Cowboy Cookout
Enjoy an evening horseback ride along the base of Sulphur Mountain to a delicious BBQ. While your guides cook, try your hand at calf roping or a game of horseshoe. The return ride will take you along the banks of the Bow River. Lunch tours and the option to ride in a covered wagon is also available.
Activity rating: Easy
Overnight in Banff.
Day 3 – Exploring Banff
Fill your lungs with cool, fresh Rockies air and head out for a day of exploration.
You have 3 options to choose from today:
• Option 1: Guided Wilderness and Nature Tour
On this small group tour by vehicle, experience some of the best mountain scenery, lakes, glaciers and forests in the valley best known for spotting moose, black and grizzly bears and other wildlife. Enjoy the short walks and breathtaking views as you get up close to nature. A picnic/patio lunch is included.
Activity rating: Moderate
• Option 2: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Tour
On this sightseeing bus tour visit the jewel of the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise, and the world-renowned Moraine Lake (available seasonally). This journey gives you plenty of time to take photos and explore the spectacular shorelines and learn the history of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Activity rating: Easy
• Option 3: Banff Sightseeing Tour
Enjoy a small group tour by bus to discover Banff’s unique heritage and stunning backdrop in the Canadian Rockies. Discover the secrets of this majestic mountain town by taking in the sights, snapping photos and enjoying short walks to view points on the many stops with your guide.
Activity rating: Easy
Overnight in Banff.
Day 4 – The Icefields Parkway – Banff to Jasper
Start your full day tour this morning as you travel the Icefields Parkway with a small group and guide through the natural splendor of Banff and Jasper National Park. The breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks and endless mountain ridges opens to spectacular views of deep valleys stretching to a distant horizon. The tour stops at the Columbia Icefield where you will venture onto the massive Athabasca Glacier in a specially designed snow coach and then head up for an amazing view on the Glacier Skywalk. Picnic lunch included today.
Arrive in Jasper this evening for a relaxing stay in this small mountain town set in the largest park in the Canadian Rockies. Jasper offers visitors a more laid-back mountain experience – with equal options for adventure, discovery, and relaxation.
Overnight in Jasper.
Day 5 – Discover Jasper National Park
Spend the day exploring the jewel of the Canadian Rockies, Jasper.
You have 3 options to choose from today:
• Option 1: Evening Canoe Paddle
An evening on a mountain lake is breathtaking – fish breaking the surface of the still water, the call of a loon, a beaver gliding though the water, or perhaps a moose grazing on the shore. Paddle with a guide across the lake, in a large canoe. What a peaceful way to end your day, with the sun setting behind the surrounding mountains.
Activity rating: Moderate
• Option 2: Best Hike of the Day in Jasper
Enjoy a professionally guided hike today in Jasper National Park. Done at a leisurely pace to allow you to take in the amazing scenery surrounding you. Depending on the day you may be strolling through wildflowers, gazing at the glaciers above, taking in the stunning colors of the mountain lakes and seeing wildlife! Enjoy a picnic lunch (bring your own) surrounded by spectacular scenery and crisp fresh mountain air!
Activity rating: Moderate
• Option 3: Half Day Train and Sightseeing Tour
This tour begins with a ride on VIA Rail’s Skeena train where you are whisked away down the tracks in comfort of your own seat with viewing window. Sit back and take in the magnificent scenery as you make your way down the Fraser River into beautiful British Columbia’s Robson Valley. Upon arrival in Dunster you will be met by your guide for the return sightseeing adventure back to Jasper along the Yellowhead Highway which includes a stop at the famous Mt. Robson, the tallest mountain in the Rockies.
Activity rating: Easy
Overnight in Jasper.
Day 6 – Explore Jasper
Spend another day exploring Jasper National Park. Today you have admission and a shuttle included to the Jasper Skytram, the longest and highest aerial tramway in the Canadian Rockies.
You have 3 options to choose from today:
• Option 1: Sidecar Motorcycle Tour
Head out for a thrilling tour in the sidecar of a Harley Davidson motorcycle. Visit your choice of Athabasca Falls, Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake or Mount Edith Cavell. Enjoy the sights as you cruise along winding roads, rivers, and beautiful forests.
Activity rating: Easy
• Option 2: Maligne Lake Tour with Cruise
Enjoy a tour to Maligne Canyon to see thundering waterfalls, unique rock formations, and mysterious disappearing Medicine Lake. Afterwards, enjoy a boat cruise on stunning Maligne Lake to the famous Spirit Island.
Activity rating: Easy
• Option 3: Scenic Float Trip on the Athabasca River
Take a guided scenic raft trip on the Athabasca River, navigating through small sets of rapids and stretches of calm waters. Sit back and let your guide do the rowing while you take in the magnificent scenery! Tour leaves from the Jasper train station in town.
Activity rating: Easy
Overnight in Jasper.
Day 7 – Transfer from Jasper to Calgary Airport
This afternoon, meet your transfer from Jasper to the Calgary Airport. Each turn reveals sparkling blue-green rivers and lakes, glaciers, mountain ranges and wildlife, so have your camera ready! Spend the evening at a Calgary Airport hotel.
Overnight at Calgary Airport hotel.
Insider tip: If you have flights departing Calgary in the later afternoon tomorrow, ask about moving your hotel from the Calgary Airport to downtown Calgary. Alternatively, ask about ending your trip in Edmonton rather than Calgary.
Day 8 – Departure from Calgary
Depart Calgary today on your flight home, with fond memories made of your Canadian Rocky Mountain vacation.
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
What's Included In Our Prices
These are the places and experiences to look forward to on this trip.
• 7 nights of hotel accommodation
Banff Experiences:
Day 1 – Choose 1 of 3:
1. Discover Grizzly Bears, Lakes and Waterfalls Tour
2. Banff National Park Guided Hike
3. Cowboy Cookout Horse Ride
Day 2 – Choose 1 of 3:
1. Guided Wilderness and Nature Tour
2. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Tour
3. Banff Sightseeing Tour
Icefield Parkway Experiences (between Banff and Jasper):
• Small Group Sightseeing Tour (Includes picnic lunch)
• Ice Explorer on the Athabasca Glacier
• Glacier Skywalk at the Athabasca Glacier
Jasper Experiences:
• Jasper Skytram Admission and Shuttle
PLUS
Day 1 – Choose 1 of 3:
1. Evening Canoe Paddle
2. Best Hike of the Day in Jasper
3. Half Day Train and Sightseeing Tour
Day 2 – Choose 1 of 3:
1. Sidecar Motorcycle Tour
2. Maligne Lake Tour with Cruise
3. Scenic Float Trip on the Athabasca River
Meal Inclusions:
• Feature Dinner in Banff
Transfer Inclusions:*
• Transportation between Calgary Airport and Banff
• Transportation between Jasper and Calgary Airport
Other Inclusions:
• Digital Travel Documents
• Gratuities for some private tours and transfers
• Fresh Tracks Canada customer service – from the time you book, you will have your own personal Vacation Coordinator whom you can reach out to with any questions or requests.
Inclusion Notes:
✔ Scheduled transfers are included for Comfort and Superior guests
✔ Private transfers are included for Deluxe guests
Important Schedule and Trip Notes:
• Discover Grizzly Bears, Lakes and Waterfalls Tour is available for May 31 to September 29 trip departures.
• Banff National Park Guided Hike has a minimum age of 13.
• Cowboy Cookout Horse Ride is available until the September 21, 2019 departure date. This activity has a maximum weight restriction of 250lbs per rider and a minimum age of 13. Ask your agent about the wagon ride alternative.
• The Guided Wilderness and Nature Tour operates on Sunday, Tuesday and Fridays. Have your agent plan your trip start date accordingly if you wish to participate in this activity.
• The Half Day Train & Sightseeing Tour in Jasper operates on Sunday, Wednesday and Fridays. Have your agent plan your trip start date accordingly if you wish to participate in this activity.
• Maligne Lake Cruise is available for late May to early October trip departures; weather conditions may cause season delays out of our control. A walking excursion will replace the cruise when it is unavailable.
• The Best Hike of the Day in Jasper is available for mid-June to late September trip departures; weather conditions may cause season delays out of our control.
• The Scenic Jasper Float Trip on the Athabasca river is available until the Oct 1 departure (weather dependent).
Not Included
• Meals, other than those mentioned
• Airfare (but do not hesitate to ask for help)
• Gratuities for hotel, scheduled tours, and scheduled transfer staff
• Trip Cancellation and Travel Medical Insurance (highly recommended)
• Canadian Sales Taxes
Ideas to customize this trip
Think of this trip as just a starting point. These are some of the experiences you can add-on to personalize your trip.
• Add additional time to explore the city of Calgary, home of the Stampede
• Add-on an unforgettable helicopter tour in the Canadian Rockies
• Add-on a night at the famous Chateau Lake Louise
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
Trip Start Dates
2019 – Calgary Start DatesDaily
May 31 to Oct 6
Pricing For This Trip
Our prices vary by departure date, hotel class, train service and degree of personalization. Please speak with one of our Canadian Insiders to get your personalized quote, or hit the button below.
Our Comfort Level vacations include our favorite 3 star hotels, in great locations. Combined with our unique sightseeing tours and personalized service, you’ll receive exceptional value, a step above what you might expect anywhere else.
Our Superior Level provides amazing value for clients wanting something more upscale but not at the price of a top-end 5 star resort. Superior level hotels are some of our favorites because of the character and unique charm that you won't find at the average chain hotel. Unique tours and seamless transfers complete your itinerary.
On our Deluxe Level vacation, it's likely you'll be staying at one of the iconic Canadian Fairmont Hotels in a room with a view. Built for the Canadian Pacific Railway in the early 20th century, these hotels are luxurious and full of history – ensuring an experience you'll never forget. Enjoy unique sightseeing experiences and the insider detail that only Fresh Tracks Canada can provide.
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
Why book your trip with us?
- We make planning a trip to Canada really easy!
- We are experts in creating personalized itineraries.
- Our itineraries are built around your specific needs, interests and budget.
- We promise friendly and personal service every step of the way.
- Consider us your personal contact in Canada before and during your trip.
- We're based in Vancouver with first-hand ‘insider’ knowledge of Canada.
- Over the past 20 years, we have personalized more than 15,000 Canadian vacations.
Fresh Tracks Canada Vs. Others
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Independent Travel
Flexibility and freedom of a personalized tour to suit your travel goals. |
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Personalized itineraries
Carefully crafted to your budget and needs. |
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Insider Knowledge
Plan your trip with help from our Canadian Insiders who live and travel in Canada. You'll know when to come, where to stay, which train to take, and lots more... |
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Local Support
Someone in Canada you can call before and during your trip, seven days a week. |
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No-one can be trusted more
You'll feel confident when booking your vacation with our accreditation and consumer protection through the following organizations. 
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Pre-packaged TripsOne-size-fits-all approach. |
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Group ToursCheapest type of travel with rigid itineraries and crowds. |
No one can be trusted more
You'll feel confident when booking your vacation with our accreditation and consumer protection through the following organizations.
Consumer Protection BC
- License Number: 31202
- The Travel Assurance Fund (TAF) provides a possible source of compensation when consumers do not receive the travel services they purchased through a BC licensed travel agent.
ABTA
- Membership Number: Y6176
- Our UK clients have the benefit of ABTA's assistance and Code of Conduct which means that all package holidays sold by Fresh Tracks Canada in the UK are covered by a full financial protection in the event of the company failure.
- We're one of the only agencies in Canada offering this protection.
BBB
- A BBB Accredited Business since 08/02/2008
- Highest rating: A+
- BBB has determined that Fresh Tracks (Canada) Inc meets BBB accreditation standards, which include a commitment to make a good faith effort to resolve any consumer complaints. BBB Accredited Businesses pay a fee for accreditation review/monitoring and for support of BBB services to the public.
IATA
- Fresh Tracks Canada is an IATA Accredited Agent.
- Full accreditation authorizes travel agents to sell international and/or domestic tickets on behalf of IATA member airlines. It also allows access to IATA's Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP), an efficient interface for invoicing and payment between the agent, airlines and transport providers.
Get your personalized trip plan organized and arranged for you
- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
