Canada Banff & Beyond Winter Adventure Lodge Based Tour
High Alpine Snowshoeing in a Winter Wonderland
Sitting at the foot of the Canadian Rockies and among 2,500+ square miles of national park land, the towns of Banff and Lake Louise provide the ideal jumping off point for iconic, world-class adventure. We'll spend 6 days playing in the spectacular winter paradise of Lake Louise and Banff, Kootenay, and Yoho National Parks. Our guides have curated the best experiences in the area for us, so whether we're hiking through dramatic Johnston Canyon or snowshoeing through a stunning high alpine wilderness, our days will be filled with exhilarating winter exploration. Along the way we'll also enjoy hearty meals, the company of new friends, and the many talents of our expert guides.
Sitting at the foot of the Canadian Rockies and among 2,500+ square miles of national park land, the towns of Banff and Lake Louise provide the ideal jumping off point for iconic, world-class adventure. We'll spend 6 days playing in the spectacular winter paradise of Lake Louise and Banff, Kootenay, and Yoho National Parks. Our guides have curated the best experiences in the area for us, so whether we're hiking through dramatic Johnston Canyon or snowshoeing through a stunning high alpine wilderness, our days will be filled with exhilarating winter exploration. Along the way we'll also enjoy hearty meals, the company of new friends, and the many talents of our expert guides.
Explore Chickadee Valley in Kootenay National Park
Day 1
Meet this morning for introductions and a group 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. Our destination today is 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 these winter tools. Once prepared, we will head out on a fabulous introduction to this amazing winter wonderland. Lunch and dinner included.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Activity: 5.6 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 975' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1.5 private van transfer
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Hop aboard a gondola for a journey into a high alpine snowshoe paradise
Day 2
A day of great winter adventure in Banff National Park awaits! Today we are whisked up above the trees and into the stunning open landscape of Sunshine Meadows. Sunshine Meadows sits astride the Continental Divide and on clear days offers extraordinary views of Mount Assiniboine, also known as the Matterhorn of the Canadian Rockies. With our snowshoes on we explore a backcountry full of inspiring views and magnificent solitude. All meals included.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Activity: 5-9 miles snowshoeing
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Journey along the eastern border of British Columbia in Yoho National Park
Day 3
Today's travels take us to Yoho National Park, Canada's second oldest national park. A land of towering peaks, massive glaciers and tumbling waterfalls, Yoho National Park transforms into an unbelievably gorgeous winter wonderland under a cover of powdery snow and ice. Our goal today is either Emerald Lake or Sherbrooke Lake, both of which offer outstanding views of the President Range and beyond. This evening we return to our cozy home-away-from-home where we soak our tired legs in a warm hot tub. Breakfast & lunch included; dinner on your own.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Activity: 5-6 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,000'-1,230' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 2.3 hours private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hike or snowshoe to stunning Lake Agnes and witness world-famous 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. Our day begins on the lake's shore, where its serene surface is dazzlingly framed by towering mountains. From there, we'll venture towards Mirror Lake, tucked beneath the charismatic, rounded top of Big Beehive. As we admire the awe-inspiring scenery, we'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 iconic lake's edge, or enjoy the cozy comfort and gorgeous views from the Chateau. All meals included.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Activity: 4.5 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,330' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1.4 hours private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wander spectacular Johnston Canyon en route to the Ink Pots
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 of brave climbers navigating frozen crags and waterfalls. We'll continue our journey through snow-covered forests and powdery sub-alpine meadows before reaching a series of geothermal pools. Surrounded by soaring peaks we'll enjoy a picnic lunch before heading back to Banff for a celebratory last dinner together. All meals included.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Activity: 7 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,889' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1 hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tunnel Mountain and Stewart Canyon
Day 6
Tunnel Mountain, one of Banff "smallest" mountains but oh so famous for its access to some of the best views of the Bow Valley and it's surrounding peaks. The trail to the summit of Tunnel Mountain meanders through a forest of Douglas Fir which makes for great photo options. Arriving at the summit ridge, we are met with dramatic views of Mt Rundle, the Hoodoos and the Fairholme Range. We'll also be looking down on one of Banff's most famous historical landmarks, the Fairmont Banff Springs Luxury Hotel. After our morning hike, we head to Cascade Pond for a picnic lunch under the dramatic East face of Cascade mountain. We 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. We expect to arrive back in Banff by the late afternoon where we say goodbye to the beautiful Bow Valley. Breakfast and lunch included.
Activity: 3 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 860' elevation gain and loss; 2 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 200' elevation gain and loss; 7 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,889' elevation gain and loss
Accommodations 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 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.
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.
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.
Local Tour Guide .
We work with only the most experienced and knowledgeable local guides on our trips. You will be in excellent hands with a fully licensed and accredited local guide who will share their expertise in everything from history and architecture, to culture and traditions, the best local cuisine, activities and crafts, or even shopping. Local guides live, breathe, and love their trips because as locals they are an integral part of their communities. Their connections run deep and pride in their piece of the world is contagious.
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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
5.6 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 975' elevation gain and loss
Day 2
5-9 miles snowshoeing
Day 3
5-6 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,000'-1,230' elevation gain and loss
Day 4
4.5 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,330' elevation gain and loss
Day 5
7 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,889' elevation gain and loss
Day 6
3 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 860' elevation gain and loss; 2 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 200' elevation gain and loss; 7 miles snowshoeing or hiking with 1,889' 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.
Located in Banff National Park, the Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa offers a mountain lodge hotel, a great steakhouse restaurant and a full service spa, all in one outstanding location. This ideal vacation spot is located on Banff Avenue, the main street in the town of Banff. Surrounded by mountains, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. Rooms at the Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa offer mini fridges, flat screen tvs, in-room coffee and tea, wifi and of course mountain fresh air.
Weather
Winters are crisp with day time highs in the 30°Fs and nights dropping into the teens.
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
Banff National Park
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Banff National Park
15
-8
25
-5
32
5
40
15
FAQs
Who is this trip perfect for?
This adventure is perfect for people who want to snowshoe at a moderate pace, with ample time to take in breathtaking views and enjoy the serenity.
Is previous snowshoe experience required?
No, but you will enjoy the experience more if you are in good physical condition.