With an endless supply of vibrant turquoise lakes, glacier-fed rivers, snow-capped peaks, and alpine meadows, the Canadian Rockies is one of the most coveted outdoor destinations on the planet. From hanging glaciers to high-alpine meadows, nature lovers find constant inspiration in the region's stunning terrain and jaw-dropping views. We'll spend six days exploring the finest trails within the Canadian Rockies. We'll journey through the ancient shale fields surrounding Stanley Glacier. We'll explore the rocky shores of crystal-clear Helen Lake. We'll picnic in the Valley of Ten Peaks. Our hikes will showcase a stunning array of diverse and sublime wilderness. By the end of each awe-inspiring day, we'll fall asleep refreshed, renewed, and inspired for our next amazing trek.
With an endless supply of vibrant turquoise lakes, glacier-fed rivers, snow-capped peaks, and alpine meadows, the Canadian Rockies is one of the most coveted outdoor destinations on the planet. From hanging glaciers to high-alpine meadows, nature lovers find constant inspiration in the region's stunning terrain and jaw-dropping views. We'll spend six days exploring the finest trails within the Canadian Rockies. We'll journey through the ancient shale fields surrounding Stanley Glacier. We'll explore the rocky shores of crystal-clear Helen Lake. We'll picnic in the Valley of Ten Peaks. Our hikes will showcase a stunning array of diverse and sublime wilderness. By the end of each awe-inspiring day, we'll fall asleep refreshed, renewed, and inspired for our next amazing trek.
Spend the day on an independent exploration of Banff
Day 1
Arrive at your leisure into the vibrant mountain town of Banff. There are several convenient options to get you from Calgary into the town center. While we've reserved your comfy accommodations for the night, you'll have the day free to explore the town at your own pace. Whether you spend the day soaking in the hot springs, visiting museums and shops, walking along local trails, or sampling a delicious variety of cuisine, Banff provides a variety of charming highlights. No meals or organized activity included. Your guides will meet the group tomorrow morning to begin our adventure!
Accommodation: The Rundlestone Lodge Accommodation: Banff Ptarmigan Inn
Visit Kootenay National Park and hike to Stanley Glacier
Day 2
Today's trail showcases the impressive diversity, resilience, and ancient history of the Canadian Rockies. While Stanley Glacier is a bucket-list worthy destination on its own, our hike through the spectacular landscape along the way is equally impressive. Mountainsides recovering from wildfires under a colorful blanket of fireweed and lodgpole pine saplings. Five hundred-million-year-old fossils in what's considered one of the most significant geological heritage sites on the planet. Glaciers hanging from the crests of towering peaks. From the forest floor to 360° wide-open vistas, our first hours of exploration provide an unending supply of awe-inspiring moments. All meals included.
Accommodation: The Rundlestone Lodge Accommodation: Banff Ptarmigan Inn
Activity: 5 miles hiking with 1,200' elevation gain and loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike the Iceline Trail and Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park
Day 3
Created in 1886 as Canada's second national park, Yoho is home to over 507 square miles of jaw-dropping wilderness. Today's trail showcases the full grandeur of the park and is considered one of the most scenic hikes in all the Canadian Rockies. With its assortment of glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, and spectacular views its easy to see how the Iceline Trail holds such a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. Throughout today's hike we'll be treated to occasional views of 1,224' Takakkaw Falls. Once we've completed our journey along the Iceline Trail, we'll take a short walk to stand at the foot of falls, which are the second tallest in Canada. Breakfast & lunch included; dinner on your own.
Accommodation: The Rundlestone Lodge Accommodation: Banff Ptarmigan Inn
Activity: 6-9 miles hiking with 1,300'-2,000' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 3.5 hours private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Trek through a high alpine paradise in route to Helen Lake
Day 4
We start our day by visiting some of the most gorgeous lakes in the Canadian Rockies. Our first stop is famous Peyto lake, with its turquoise blue waters which at the right angle resembles the head of a wolf. Our second detour is to Bow Lake, at the foot of Crowfoot Mountain and Glacier. Just across the world-famous Icefields Parkway from Bow Lake sits our trail to Helen Lake. With our boots laced and our cameras poised we'll begin our journey through spectacular subalpine wilderness. Colorful wildflowers dot vibrant green meadows and glacier-fed streams trickle under towering, jagged peaks. The 360° views seem endless, so we'll take our time to truly soak in the splendor of this Rocky Mountain paradise. For those looking for an extra challenge, our guides will lead you to the summit of Cirque Shoulder for jaw-dropping panoramas that you will never forget. All meals included.
Accommodation: The Rundlestone Lodge Accommodation: Banff Ptarmigan Inn
Activity: 8.6 miles hiking with 1,800' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 2.5 hours private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meditate along the shores of Moraine Lake before exploring the Valley of the Ten Peaks
Day 5
A visit to Banff wouldn't be complete without a visit to Moraine Lake, one of the most recognizable destinations within the Canadian Rockies. Set at the mouth of the Valley of Ten Peaks, the azure waters of Moraine Lake border today's trail. As we hike along Moraine's shoreline, we'll gradually climb through stands of evergreen trees but still have peek-a-boo views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Eventually we clear the lower forest and break out into a high alpine utopia. Surrounded by smatterings of Larch trees, wildflowers, and the towering Ten Peaks we'll hike to Eiffel Lake, where we'll enjoy a well-deserved picnic lunch. All meals included.
Accommodation: The Rundlestone Lodge Accommodation: Banff Ptarmigan Inn
Activity: 7-11 miles hiking with 1,300'-1,800' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 2.5 hours private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy crystal clear Lake Agnes and its charming shoreline Tea House
Day 6
A short walk from Lake Louise takes us to the start of today's hike. With its clear waters, lovely views, and idyllic setting, Lake Agnes provides a postcard perfect image of the Canadian Rockies. Making the destination even more rewarding is the Lake Agnes Tea House, which since 1905 has been serving backcountry travelers a menu of teas and snacks in the high alpine. While we'll enjoy our picnic lunch along a quieter part of Lake Agnes' shores, we'll set aside time for those who want to indulge in a Tea House treat. Later this afternoon we'll shuttle back to Banff where we'll say our final farewells to new friends and the beautiful Canadian Rockies. Breakfast and lunch included.
Activity: 6.5 miles hiking with 1,560' elevation gain and loss
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.
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.
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.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. Participants should feel comfortable hiking up to 11 miles with elevation gains and losses of up to 2,000' over uneven dirt and rocky trails. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
5 miles hiking with 1,200' elevation gain and loss
Day 3
6-9 miles hiking with 1,300'-2,000' elevation gain and loss
Day 4
8.6 miles hiking with 1,800' elevation gain and loss
Day 5
7-11 miles hiking with 1,300'-1,800' elevation gain and loss
Day 6
6.5 miles hiking with 1,560' 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
Five nights in a comfortable mountain lodge hotel.
Located in the heart of Banff National Park, the Rundlestone Lodge is the gateway to the Rockies. Spend your days out exploring the local mountains, lakes and waterfalls or take a walk into the town centre to experience the culture of mountain life. Located on Banff Avenue, the lodge offers complimentary WiFi, air-conditioned rooms, a fitness center, a hot tub, and convenient access to downtown Banff, plus complimentary Roam Bus passes to explore the area with ease.
The Banff Ptarmigan Inn is a cozy mountain hotel located just a short walk from downtown Banff. Guests can relax in the indoor hot tubs, sauna, and steam room after a day of exploring the Rockies. The hotel features modern alpine-inspired decor and comfortable rooms with scenic views. Its convenient location makes it an excellent base for outdoor adventures in Banff National Park.
Weather
Enjoy mild summers with rain and clouds and winds near glaciers and mountains. Daytime 55°F - 70°F. Evenings 35°F - 50°F.
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Lake Louise
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Lake Louise
63
37
70
41
68
49
59
32
FAQs
What kind of wildlife will I see?
You may see black bears, moose, elk, white-tailed deer, mountain goats, and bald eagles throughout the year. Each new season brings a wide variety of mammal and birds species and on any given day.