Canada Banff & Beyond Winter Hiking Tour
High Alpine Snowshoeing in a Winter Wonderland
- Available: January, February, March, April, December
- Activity: Level 3
- Accommodations: Comfortable Hotels
Highlights
- Summit Tunnel Mountain and explore Banff National Park's Johnston and Stewart Canyons
- Explore the snow-covered valleys of Kootenay and pristine lakes of Yoho National Parks
- Enjoy a cup of hot cocoa and spectacular views along the icy shores of Lake Louise
Itinerary
Explore Chickadee Valley in Kootenay National Park
Day 1
Meet this morning for introductions and an orientation in the town of Banff, Alberta. Please arrive ready for a day outside and prepared with more warm layers than you think you'll need. Travel to Kootenay National Park and the Chickadee Valley. Depending on the snow and trail conditions, your guides will distribute the most appropriate equipment for your hike, which may include snowshoes, trekking poles and/or crampons. Your guides will also provide a refresher on how to properly use and adjust this winter gear. Once prepared, head out on a fabulous introduction to this amazing winter wonderland on foot, getting glimpses between the pines of the surrounding rocky peaks, crowned in white.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Activity: ?3-4 hours/5.6 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 975' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Chester Lake in Beautiful Kananaskis Valley
Day 2
A day of marvelous winter adventure awaits at Chester Lake, a true jewel hidden within the lovely Kananaskis Valley. From the Chester Lake Trailhead, the way winds gradually uphill through evergreen forests draped in snow and rewarding vistas. Pause for a trailside lunch on the route to the lake itself, which is serenely nestled among the surrounding peaks. The layering of sediment, formed millions of years ago at the bottom of ancient seas, pressed together, and thrust upward by colossal tectonic forces to form these magnificent peaks is on full display in the exposed strata of rock here. Returning to Banff later this evening, enjoy a memorable dinner at a lively, award-winning restaurant to celebrate the day.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Activity: 3 hours/4.8 miles snowshoeing with 1,340' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: Two 1.5-hour private van transfers
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Follow Trails to Breathtaking Views in Yoho National Park
Day 3
Today, travel to Yoho National Park in British Columbia, Canada's second oldest national park. A land of towering peaks, massive glaciers, and tumbling waterfalls, winter transforms Yoho into an unbelievably gorgeous wonderland under a cover of powdery snow and ice. Your goal today is either Emerald Lake or Sherbrooke Lake, both of which offer outstanding views of the President Range and beyond. The glassy waters of these lakes reflect majestic peaks cloaked in dense forest. After a day of winter beauty and awe-inspiring vistas, return to your cozy home-away-from-home to soak tired legs in a warm hot tub.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Activity: 3-4 hours/5-6 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,000'-1,230' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 2.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hike or Snowshoe to Iconic Lake Louise
Day 4
As one of the most photographed outdoor destinations on the planet, Lake Louise also holds the honor of being Canada's highest village. Today's hike begins at the charming Lake Louise Train Station—the trail traces the original route of a narrow-gauge tramway that once transported guests to the iconic Chateau Lake Louise—and ends at stunning Lake Louise, where icy-edged turquoise waters meet the dramatic backdrop of glaciers and mountains. As you admire the awe-inspiring scenery, you'll each enjoy a hot thermos of fortifying homemade soup. The afternoon holds the choice to continue your hike to the Fairview Lookout above Lake Louise, take a stroll around the glistening lake's edge, or enjoy the cozy comfort and gorgeous views from the Chateau.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Activity: 3-4 hours/5.5 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,340' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover the Ink Pots Deep in Johnston Canyon
Day 5
A winter adventure to Banff National Park would not be complete without a visit to beautiful Johnston Canyon. Shaped by centuries of erosion, the canyon's soaring walls hide a treasure trove of frozen waterfalls, deep tunnels, and clear blue pools. With several coveted ice climbing routes available in Johnston Canyon, visitors are often treated to a front-row seat watching brave climbers navigating frozen crags and waterfalls. Continue along through snow-covered forests and powdery sub-alpine meadows before reaching a series of mineral pools, each with a different hue of inky blue-green water. Surrounded by soaring peaks, enjoy a picnic lunch before heading back to Banff for a celebratory final dinner together.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Activity: 4-5 hours/7 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,899' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Summit Tunnel Mountain & Depart
Day 6
Tunnel Mountain is one of Banff’s smallest—yet still quite large—mountains, famous for its access to some of the best views of the Bow Valley and surrounding peaks. The trail to the top meanders through a forest of Douglas fir to the summit ridge, where you are met with dramatic views of Mt. Rundle, the Hoodoos, and the Fairholme Range. Below you is the Fairmont Banff Springs Luxury Hotel, established by the Canadian Railway in 1888. After this morning’s hike, head to Cascade Pond for a picnic lunch under the dramatic east face of Cascade Mountain. Finish the day with a stroll to Stewart Canyon bridge at Lake Minnewanka, Banff National Park's largest lake, enjoying this easy hike to cap off an amazing week of exploring and adventuring in the Canadian Rockies. Travel back to Banff, arriving by late afternoon, and depart.
Activity: 1.5 hours/3 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 9900' elevation gain and loss; 1 hour/1.6 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 100' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Why Travel With Us?
MT Sobek is a legendary outdoor outfitter, carving out a reputation as a leader in sustainable, low-impact adventures.
Our team of local guides are true experts, with over 20 years' experience leading trips in Canada.
This trip offers the perfect blend of active winter adventure, and relaxing nights at a warm and welcoming lodge.
Know Before You Book
The national park accommodations on this trip provide great access to the top activities in the area. However, they are simpler compared to what we usually consider comfortable lodging-the rooms being more basic. Some buildings date back to the early 1900s and have been minimally renovated to follow park regulations. Overall, the service might feel slower and meal quality and selection much more limited compared to other MT Sobek trips. Keep in mind that internet and cell phone service are very limited throughout the parks.
Dates & Prices
- 2025
- 2026
- Go Private
- Go Custom
- Inclusions
2025
Scheduled Dates
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
- $4,895 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$599 Single OccupancyAvailableConfirmed
2026
Scheduled Dates
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
- $4,695 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$590 Single OccupancyAvailable - $4,695 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$590 Single OccupancyAvailable - $4,695 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$590 Single OccupancyAvailable - $4,695 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$590 Single OccupancyAvailable - $4,695 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$590 Single OccupancyAvailableConfirmed - $4,695 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$590 Single OccupancyAvailable - $4,695 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$590 Single OccupancyAvailable
Go Private
Go Private with MT Sobek
Gather your favorite travel companions—family, friends, colleagues, or club—and enjoy an exclusive departure that’s easy to book and completely unforgettable.
Private Trip RequestPrivate Trip Requirements
A 25% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your private departure.
Minimum age for guests on this trip is 18 years old.
Choose Your Own Travel Dates
January, February, March, April, December
Private Trip Pricing: 2026
8 guests from $4,895 per person double occupancy
7 guests from $5,395 per person double occupancy
6 guests from $5,895 per person double occupancy
5 guests from $5,995 per person double occupancy
4 guests from $6,595 per person double occupancy
3 guests from $7,595 per person double occupancy
2 guests from $9,395 per person double occupancy
Optional:
$590 Single Occupancy
*Seasonal rates may apply.
*Trip pricing on the website is provided as an estimate and is subject to change based on rates at the time of request and seasonality.
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
Start PlanningInclusions
Price Includes
- Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
- All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All breakfasts, lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
- Snacks and water between meals
- Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
- Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
- All fees for events, activities, or attractions as noted in the itinerary
- All gratuities for hotels, included meals, and activities
- Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
- Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
- Transportation from trip start to end as noted in the itinerary
- Baggage transfers and porterage unless otherwise noted in the itinerary
- Group first aid kit and emergency communication device
Price Does Not Include
- Airfare or other transportation to and from trip start and end location, associated taxes, and excess baggage fees
- Alcoholic beverages
- Pre- and post-trip accommodation
- Gratuities for MT Sobek guides
- Any meals on your own as noted in the itinerary
- Travel Protection Program
- Personal expenses
Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.
Your Guides
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Sean B.
Sean was born in British Columbia but grew up in the UK. He enjoyed a career teaching politics and history, but the outdoors was always calling. He returned to Canada in 2008, and has since guided hiking, canoeing, and bear viewing adventures around Whistler and the Rockies. Sean has the following certifications: ACMG Assistant Hiking Guide, IGA Apprentice Hiking Guide, Wilderness First Responder, Flatwater Canoe and CSIA Level 1.
Etienne L.
Spending his childhood exploring outdoors in the French-speaking province of Quebec, Etienne followed his love of adventure to the Canadian Rockies and began his dream job, guiding outdoor trips, in 2016. He is a certified Professional Interpretive Guide, and proficient in wilderness first aid. His enthusiasm for the landscapes and stories of the region is infectious, and he looks forward to sharing this passion with you on every adventure.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. Participants will be snowshoeing/hiking over snow, ice and slush through potentially inclement winter weather for up to 9 miles with elevation gains and losses of up to 1900'.
Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 1
?3-4 hours/5.6 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 975' elevation gain and loss
Day 2
3 hours/4.8 miles snowshoeing with 1,340' elevation gain and loss
Day 3
3-4 hours/5-6 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,000'-1,230' elevation gain and loss
Day 4
3-4 hours/5.5 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,340' elevation gain and loss
Day 5
4-5 hours/7 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,899' elevation gain and loss
Day 6
1.5 hours/3 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 9900' elevation gain and loss; 1 hour/1.6 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 100' elevation gain and loss
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
Modern and cozy mountain lodge hotel.
Weather
Winters are crisp with daytime highs in the 30°Fs and nights dropping into the teens.
FAQs
MT Sobek offers a wide variety of adventure tours across Canada including both multiday lodge-based and camping-based hiking tours in the Canadian Rockies as well as multiday river rafting expeditions across the Yukon—we even offer custom trips to the Canadian Rockies. Check out our full range of adventures.