Rocky Mountain Hiking Highlights

Day 1

After your arrival at Calgary International Airport you will be transferred to your hotel. The afternoon and evening will be free for you to explore Calgary, a charming city that combines its cowboy past with modern influences to create a unique city. There are lots of delightful restaurants, boutique shops and cosy pubs to visit during your time here.

Overnight: Fairmont Palliser

Day 2

Today you will explore the town of Drumheller, which houses the fascinating Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology, holding a collection of over 130,000 fossils from more than 300 species. Here you’ll be learning from the world’s leading palaeontologists as you take part in live workshops and skeletal reconstructions. There’s even the option of a Dinosite Tour, a thought-provoking 3km guided walk to see authentic fossils and remnants of dinosaurs, before travelling back to Calgary. On the way you’ll stop at the Rosedale Suspension Bridge for panoramic views of hoodoos - geological formations that protrude from the rugged landscapes.

Overnight: Fairmont Palliser

Day 3

Your day will start with a scenic trip to Banff National Park, driving along sweeping valley roads and through towering mountain ranges. Once you’ve arrived in Banff, you’ll have time to explore this charming rustic resort town, including Banff Avenue with its quaint souvenir and boutique shops and wooden huts.

Overnight: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel or Rimrock Hotel

Day 4

Today you will truly experience the beauty of Alberta on a 12km hike led by an experienced local guide*. You will have a 9am departure from Banff for a short transfer to the start of the hike, then follow the flower-filled trails of the Sunshine Meadows as they wind past waterfalls and lakes. Then return to Banff early afternoon, where the rest of the day is yours at leisure.

Overnight: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel or Rimrock Hotel

* Guided hike is applicable for 09.00 departures Jun 29th - Aug 29th only, other dates and departure times include self-guided hike and return transfers.

Day 5

Witness the natural beauty of Banff and Yoho National Parks on a full-day sightseeing transfer from Banff to Lake Louise. Throughout this scenic journey, the tour will make numerous stops, starting with the jagged Johnston Canyon for a short nature walk to its gushing lower falls. Next you’ll visit Moraine Lake to take in its breath-taking views of glaciers and turquoise waters, before crossing the mountainous Great Divide to enter Yoho National Park. Here you’ll visit Takakkaw Falls and the Kicking Horse Pass before arriving at the unsurpassable Lake Louise.

Overnight: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Day 6

Today you can choose between three guided hikes. The first is a 7km hike to the striking Lake Agnes, ending with a drink at the rustic teahouse overlooking the alpine forest and lake. Or you could choose a 6.4km hike through wild meadows and fir forests to the Consolation Lakes, where you’ll relax and take in the gorgeous views of glaciers. Or there’s the option to walk 7km to Saddleback Pass, taking a moderately steep trail past the picturesque landscapes of Mount Fairview and Saddleback Peak. En route you’ll stop for snacks and dramatic views at the hidden Guides View Point.

Overnight: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Day 7

You’ll enjoy another spectacular sightseeing journey today, from Lake Louise to Jasper, where you’ll spot mountain wildlife and pause at scenic viewpoints, before stopping at Icefields Parkway. Your exploration will start with a trip to Columbia Icefield on a thrilling 90 minute adventure on board an Ice Explorer, before experiencing the Glacier Skywalk that juts out over the stunning Sunwapta Canyon. Stroll along the Discovery Trail, past waterfalls, wildlife and fossils. Arrive in Jasper in the late afternoon. Lunch is included.

Overnight: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Day 8

Today a guide will lead the group as you take a hike in the Jasper National Park. You will retrace the steps of the fur traders from a bygone age, through the jagged mountain peaks, shimmering glaciers and crystal-clear lakes surrounding Mount Edith Cavell. You will discover the fascinating history and geology of the region, as you take the “Path of the Glacier” walk through glacial formations and past ice caves and waterfalls. This region is home to hundreds of plant and bird species, and 60 different types of mammals including bears, caribou, elk and cougars.

Overnight: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Day 9

Depart from Jasper and transfer to Edmonton for your departing flight. Or perhaps stay for a few more days to relax and enjoy the laid-back charms of Edmonton.