Family Heli-Hiking in the Canadian Rockies
days
starting fromUS $5,200per 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.
Rocky Mountains Helicopter Tour
Treat your family to a Canadian adventure they will never forget. Experience the best of the Banff National Park with hand-picked activity options to suit every family member. Save the best for last with majestic, unspoiled views as you hike high above the tree line in the Columbia Mountains. Staying in a mountain lodge accessible only by helicopter, explore an environment few people get to experience. After such a unique adventure, your family will be talking about this vacation for years to come.
Trip Outline
9 Days / 8 Nights
Arrive Calgary → 4 nights Banff/Canmore Area → 3 nights Heli-Hiking Lodge → 1 night Calgary → Depart Calgary
Details of each day Start dates PricingAccommodationsWhat's included
What you'll love about this trip
Heli-hiking in the Columbia Mountains
Choice of family activities in Banff National Park
Spectacular scenery and wildlife
Unique mountain lodge accommodation
Family specific departures
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
Join a thrilling family heli-hiking adventure to the top of magnificent peaks for stunning views.
Start your adventure in the charming mountain town of Banff.
Choose from hand-picked family-friendly activities in Banff National Park.
The Cowboy Cookout tour is a Fresh Tracks favourite, and perfect for families.
Enjoy both guided and self-guided discovery as well as plenty of time for relaxation.
Next, your heli-hiking adventure begins with an exhilarating ride to the fly-in lodge.
There are two lodge locations available in the stunning Columbia Mountain range.
Spend your days with guided heli-hiking in unbelievable settings few people get to experience.
Traveling by helicopter allows access to remote areas, while accommodating all levels of experience.
Relax, after adventure filled days, sharing stories around a roaring fire.
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
Welcome to Calgary International Airport! Collect your rental car and drive to the town of Banff to begin your exploration of the Canadian Rockies. Banff is a unique destination – a UNESCO World Heritage Site with all the charm of a small mountain community. Breathe in the fresh Canadian Rockies air – you’ve arrived!
Insider tip: Families seeking a more secluded location can stay in the quieter mountain town of Canmore, just a 30-minute drive from downtown Banff. Activities are easily accessible from both locations. Please speak to your Vacation Advisor about your preferences.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 2 – Explore Banff National Park
Fill your lungs with cool, fresh Rockies air and head out for a day of exploration. Today your activity options are all about getting the whole family excited for your heli-hiking adventure to come. Challenge yourselves by learning new skills or simply enjoy the beautiful setting of Banff National Park.
You have the following 3 options today:
• Option 1: River Float Trip
Winding through the picturesque landscape of the Rocky Mountains, your float trip is a great whitewater experience for families. Located in the front ranges of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, this 2–3 hour river trip offers the novice a thrilling and fun introduction to whitewater rafting.
Activity rating: Easy
Insider tip: Looking for bigger thrills on your rafting trip? Ask your Vacation Advisor about including an exciting whitewater rafting tour with up to Class 4 rapids instead!
• Option 2: Voyageur Canoe Tour
Explore the Bow River in Banff in a big canoe! Join a group and a guide to learn about the river, work as a team and have fun! No experience necessary and fun for all ages!
Activity rating: Moderate
• Option 3: Scenic Ride to Sunshine Village + Standish Chairlift + Hosted Trail Walk
Starting at the base (1,660m) take the Scenic Alpine Shuttle or Sightseeing Gondola (depending on the day of the week) up to the village at 2,164m, all while taking in the views of the valley. From the Village, ride the Standish Chairlift to over 2,400m and experience 360-degrees of breath-taking views. Once at the top, surrounded by the iconic peaks of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, join a hosted trail walk. With your knowledgeable guide, explore Sunshine Meadows and take in the beautiful vistas.
Activity rating: Moderate
Overnight in Banff.
Day 3 – Banff National Park Discovery Continues
Continue to adventure through the Canadian Rockies today with family-friendly activities.
You have the following 3 options to help you enjoy Banff:
• Option 1: Via Ferrata Tour
Step out of your comfort zone and test your limits by scaling Mt. Norquay! Your guide will begin your day with an introduction to the equipment, before heading up into the mountains. This 2.5-hour tour is a great introduction into the world of Via Ferrata, with an experienced guide leading you along, no experience is necessary. The highlight may be crossing a cable suspension bridge high up in the Canadian Rockies.
Activity rating: Moderate–Challenging
• Option 2: Cave Tour
Your hike will introduce you and your family to the amazing world of caves, spending approximately 2 hours underground crawling, sliding, and wiggling past prehistoric bones and investigating ancient cave formations. This activity takes place 30 minute from Banff and involves a 30 to 40 minute hike uphill to the cave entrance. This won’t be an experience you soon forget!
Activity rating: Moderate–Challenging
• Option 3: Cowboy Cookout
Enjoy the mountain air on your trail ride along the base of Sulpher Mountain. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as you ride towards your delicious BBQ meal. Relax trail side as your cowboy guides prepare a BBQ feast and treat you to genuine western hospitality. Your day comes full circle as you ride back along Sulphur Mountain Trail and climb up and around the Windy Knoll, where dazzling views of the sky-piercing mountains await.
Activity rating: Easy
Overnight in Banff.
Day 4 – Full Day in Banff National Park
Enjoy a full day at your leisure. Use your rental car to visit the famous emerald waters of Lake Louise or explore the Icefields Parkway. There are also many activities right in Banff – from shopping downtown, to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, or the Banff Gondola. Or simply relax and enjoy the amenities of your hotel and save your energy for your heli-hiking adventure tomorrow.
Return your rental car in Banff this evening.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 5 – Heli-Hiking Adventure Begins
The excitement begins bright and early with a transfer to the heli-pad a few hours outside of Banff. Having returned your rental car, you can simply sit back and enjoy the view.
Your heli-hiking holiday begins with a flight to a beautiful lodge in the Columbia Mountains, accessible only by helicopter. Welcome to the world’s biggest playground! Families bond over exciting zip-lines, rock climbing, wild animals and jaw-dropping mountain views.
Overnight at Bugaboo Mountain Lodge.
Day 6 and 7 – Family Heli-Hiking Adventure Continues
Spend the next few days exploring the stunning terrain of the Columbia Mountains with your family. Hiking takes place between 1,828 metres (6,000 feet) and 2,438 metres (8,000 feet), which is a very comfortable altitude for most people. One of the greatest advantages of this heli-hiking adventure is the ability for your guides to tailor the hikes to accommodate all abilities, regardless of age.
After your hike, which is as short or as long as you want, fly back to the lodge where trip leaders keep the kids occupied with games and crafts, and you relax after the day’s adventures. For dinner enjoy some of the best cuisine your eyes and taste buds have ever experienced. Dinner is served family style at long tables, allowing guests and guides to reminisce over the day’s adventures.
Spend the evening sharing stories by the roaring fire, or relax in the whirlpool under starry skies.
Overnight at Bugaboo Mountain Lodge.
Day 8 – Transfer to the Calgary Airport
Enjoy seamless transportation today as you return by helicopter to the landing pad, and then continue with a transfer to the Calgary Airport.
A post-night has been included at a Calgary Airport hotel so there is no need to stress about catching a flight. Enjoy one more evening relaxing with your family, reliving your unforgettable vacation.
Overnight at Calgary Airport.
Day 9 – Depart Calgary
Much too soon you leave the beautiful colors and crisp air of Canada behind as your family vacation comes to an end.
Start Dates
2020 – Bugaboos Lodge Adventure
June 30
July 3, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30
Aug 2, 5, 8, 11, 14, 17
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.
Moose Hotel & Suites
The Moose Hotel and Suites is a new property operated by the Banff Lodging company. Designed with warm, rich, natural materials, the Moose has an air of elegant sophistication. Just one minute from downtown Banff, the Moose features air conditioned One and Two Bedroom Suites. Guests enjoy access to the Meadow Spa and Pools as well as a complimentary Roam bus pass.
Solara Resort & Spa
The Solara Resort & Spa is located in downtown Canmore and surrounded by the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Only a short walk to restaurant and shops, this is the perfect location for your stay in Canmore. Amenities include fitness centre, sauna, hot tub, and children’s activity centre.
Bugaboo Heli-hiking Lodge
Located amid a sea of green flora, the Bugaboo Lodge sits at 1500 metres (5000 ft) high. Featuring 32 rooms with private baths, a sauna, steam room along with a game room, cozy bar/lounge area and inviting fireplace, there is plenty of opportunity for private respite and communal gathering with new-found friends. The rooftop hot tub boasts unparalleled views of this magnificent setting. History buffs will delight in the lodge museum.
Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel
Conveniently located with direct access to the Calgary Airport’s international terminal. The Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel offers breathtaking views and modern luxury. Amenities include an indoor pool, fitness centre, and onsite restaurant.
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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.
