Canadian Rockies Discovery Tour
days
starting fromUS $2,720per person
- Choose your own activities and experiences to make the most of your trip.
- Have all the details of your trip organized and arranged for you.
Explore Banff And Jasper National Parks
Discover 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 including rafting, biking, cave exploring and more. Everything is pre-planned, including your car rental, the best Canadian Rockies hotels, and unique tours. Choose from sightseeing, wildlife viewing, guided hikes, and more.
Trip Outline
8 Days / 7 Nights
Arrive Calgary → 3 nights Banff → 3 nights Jasper → 1 night Calgary → Depart Calgary
Details of each day Start dates PricingAccommodationsWhat's includedSpecials
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
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Is this an escorted tour?
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.
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Can this trip be made shorter or longer?
Absolutely! We personalize all our clients' trips to fit their exact tastes and needs. You can add days at locations that you'd like to explore and spend more time at. Or leave out certain areas that don't interest you as much. Discuss your travel goals with our Canadian Insiders who make sure that your trip fits your needs and budget.
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Can I customize this trip?
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 get your FREE personalized trip plan and 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.
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Where am I staying on this trip?
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.
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How much does my trip cost?
All our trips are personalized to fit our clients' schedule and budget. The price of your trip generally depends on the travel season, train service, accommodations, and the sightseeing tours you take. Please request your personalized quote which will provide you with the detailed information you need.
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What is included in the price?
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 your detailed digital travel documents, and our Canadian Insiders remain at your disposal throughout your trip to answer any questions.
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What are the best ways to travel around Canada?
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.
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When is the best time to see wildlife?
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.
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Will it be cold when I visit Canada in summer?
The temperature varies from mild to hot, depending on location. 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). The interior of British Columbia, prairies, Ontario and Quebec can reach temperatures around 95°F (35°C). Northern Canada will range between 50°F to 64°F (10°C – 18°C) in summer.
This Trip in Pictures
Discover the best of the Canadian Rockies on your Canadian Rocky Mountain vacation.
Arrive into the bustling mountain town of Banff and settle into your Canadian Rockies hotel.
Enjoy a great choice of handpicked tours in Banff National Park.
From enjoying a guided hike to learning how to be a cowboy, there is an option for everyone.
Between Banff and Jasper National Parks visit the famous Glacier Skywalk along the Icefields Parkway.
Arrive into the quaint town of Jasper deep in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
Choose to bask in the serene atmosphere of the Rockies on a guided canoe tour in Jasper.
Or enjoy the freeing feeling of wind in your hair on a sidecar motorcycle tour.
With two full days in Jasper National Park there is plenty of time to explore the Canadian Rockies.
Recommended Itinerary
Think of this itinerary as just a starting point. Our experienced Canadian Insiders will create a personalized trip plan for you that matches your travel style, schedule and budget.
Day 1 – Arrive in Calgary and Transfer to Banff
Welcome to Calgary! Upon arrival, pick up your car rental at 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: White Water Rafting Tour
A whitewater paddle awaits on a choice of two different rivers! Choose from the exciting white water rafting of class 1-4 rapids on the Kicking Horse River, or enjoy a more leisurely paddle for the whole family on Kananaskis River. All safety equipment and training are provided.
Activity rating: Easy-Moderate
- Option 2: Banff E-Bike Tour
Cycle the Banff and Bow Valley area with ease on an E-Bike tour. This adventure will journey through the best of Banff and the surrounding area adjusting to the interests of the group and the weather.
Activity rating: Easy–Moderate
- Option 3: Sundance Loop Horseback Ride
Horseback ride along the tranquil Bow River, an area home to wildlife in among the thick marshes and grassy meadows – and pass by the historic Cave and Basin, the birth place of Banff National Park. Enjoy fantastic scenery as you climb up Sulphur Mountain around the Windy Knoll viewpoint.
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: Explorer Cave Tour
Venture into an underground world in this introduction to caving. Spend approximately two hours underground, crawling past prehistoric bones and investigating ancient cave formations. This will be an unforgettable experience.
Activity rating: Moderate
- Option 2: Exploring Banff on Own, includes Banff Gondola
Enjoy a more leisurely day on own to explore the town of Banff on own. We have included admission for the Banff Gondola. Soar to the top of Sulphur Mountain for a bird’s-eye view of six mountain ranges. Stroll along the ridge-top boardwalk, explore the interpretive centre, and enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views.
Activity rating: Easy
- Option 3: Evening Nature Tour
As the sun sets behind the craggy peaks, your guide will lead a paved road bus tour to the hotspots where you are most likely to see Rocky Mountain creatures and take in the stunning scenery in the park. You’ll also learn about how the park protects these animals and their natural habitat from many threats to the ecosystem.
Activity rating: Easy
Overnight in Banff
Day 4 – The Icefields Parkway – Banff to Jasper
Today is spent in the majesty of Canada’s two most famous National Parks, Banff and Jasper, traveling along the world famous Icefield Parkway. Unlike any other, this stretch of road is dotted with more than 100 ancient glaciers, cascading waterfalls, dramatic rock spires, and emerald lakes set in sweeping valleys of thick pine and larch forests. The abundance of wildlife will have you anxiously awaiting the next curve in the road. Stop 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.
Or enjoy a bird’s eye view of remote valleys, glaciers, lakes and waterfalls, if you upgrade to a helicopter tour today. From the Icefields heliport, you’ll soar over the spectacular Cline Pass at 2900 m (9000 ft.).
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: Pyramid Lake Guided 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: Jasper Downtown Food Tour
Enjoy a short guided walk where you will visit four restaurants and taste four carefully handpicked dishes, each paired with an alcoholic beverage. Along the way you will learn about Jasper’s history.
Activity rating: Easy
- Option 3: Best Hike of the Day
Enjoy a professionally guided hike in Jasper National Park. Hike at a leisurely pace to take in the incredible scenery. Depending on the day you may be strolling through wildflowers, gazing at the glaciers above, taking in the stunning colours of the mountain lakes and seeing wildlife! Enjoy a picnic lunch (bring your own) surrounded by spectacular views and crisp fresh mountain air.
Activity rating: Moderate
Overnight in Jasper.
Day 6 – Explore Jasper
Spend another day exploring Jasper National Park. Today you have admission 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: Athabasca River Scenic Rafting Float
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, you will drive back along the Icefields Parkway from Jasper to 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.
Start Dates
2020 – Calgary Start Dates
Daily
July 1 to Oct 6
Pricing
Prices of this trip vary by departure date, hotel class and the choice of activities. Request your quote to check availability or to book this trip.
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Accommodations
Accommodations
Below are examples of the places you can stay on this trip. Please get in touch to discuss your options and to check availability.
The Banff Caribou Lodge And Spa
After a full day of skiing, hiking or 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.
Sawridge Inn
Jasper’s Sawridge Inn is a favourite among travellers looking for understated luxury at affordable prices. Unwind in newly renovated rooms with marble bathrooms and take a dip in the large indoor pool.
Fairmont Banff Springs
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.
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What's Included
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.
