Canadian Rockies Hiking Tour
World-Class Trails & Lakes
- Available: June, July, August, September
- Activity: Level 3
- Accommodations: Comfortable Hotels
Highlights
- Visit three of Canada's UNESCO-listed Rocky Mountain National Parks: Kootenay, Yoho, and Banff
- Hike diverse world-class trails, from sparkling Annette Lake to imposing Stanley Glacier
- Discover serene Moraine, Helen, and Peyto Lakes between the peaks of the Canadian Rockies
Itinerary
Arrive in Banff with Time to Explore
Day 1
Arrive at your own pace in the vibrant mountain town of Banff, just a scenic 2-hour drive or shuttle from Calgary. Your comfortable accommodation is reserved for the night, and the rest of the day is yours to explore. Stroll local trails, unwind in the hot springs, browse shops and museums, or enjoy Banff's lively dining scene. No meals or activities are scheduled today. Your guides will meet the group tomorrow morning to kick off the adventure!
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Accommodation: Banff Ptarmigan InnFollow Trails to Lake Agnes Tea House
Day 2
A short walk from Lake Louise takes you 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. You'll have the extra treat of visiting the Lake Agnes Tea House, which since 1905 has been serving backcountry travelers a menu of teas and snacks in the high alpine. While you'll enjoy your picnic lunch along a quieter part of Lake Agnes' shores, there will be time for those who want to indulge in a Tea House treat.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Accommodation: Banff Ptarmigan InnActivity: 6.5 miles/3-4 hours hiking with 1,560' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek a High Alpine Paradise to Helen Lake in Banff National Park
Day 3
Start your day by visiting some of the most gorgeous lakes in the Canadian Rockies. Famous Peyto Lake wows with its turquoise blue waters, which at the right angle, resemble the head of a wolf. Your 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 your trail to Helen Lake. With boots laced and cameras poised, begin your journey through spectacular subalpine wilderness, where colorful wildflowers dot vibrant green meadows and glacier-fed streams trickle under towering, jagged peaks. The 360-degree views seem endless, so take your time to truly soak in the splendor of this Rocky Mountain paradise. For those looking for an extra challenge, your guides will lead you to the summit of Cirque Shoulder for jaw-dropping panoramas.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Accommodation: Banff Ptarmigan InnActivity: 8.6 miles/4 hours hiking with 1,800' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 2.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Travel to Moraine Lake and Hike to Lake Annette in Banff National Park
Day 4
Irresistibly photogenic with its turquoise waters fed by glaciers and a phenomenal location at the base of the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is one of the most recognizable locations in the Canadian Rockies. Arriving early gets you the best opportunities for photos and soaking in the scenery. Continue to today's trailhead, where a less-frequented path winds through a valley of pine and spruce forest, later opening up to breathtaking views of Lake Annette, tucked beneath one of the most dramatic peaks of the Rockies, Mt. Temple. After a rewarding day on the trail, return to Banff for a delicious dinner with the group and a cozy night at the lodge.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Accommodation: Banff Ptarmigan InnActivity: 7 miles/3-4 hours hiking with 1,300' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Paget Lookout & Sherbrooke Lake in Yoho National Park
Day 5
Today, cross the Continental Divide to explore its western slopes in Yoho National Park. Step onto a trail that begins in a lush, old growth forest and gradually climbs to traverse a rugged ridge offering unparalleled views of soaring peaks and ancient glaciers before reaching historic Paget Lookout, once used to spot forest fires. From there, follow the path to Sherbrooke Lake, a hidden gem of alpine waters and rocky shores set against the park’s looming peaks, watching for wildlife along the way. After returning to Banff, gather for another hearty dinner, sharing stories and memories from the trail.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Accommodation: Banff Ptarmigan InnActivity: 6.5 miles/3-5 hours hiking with 1,700' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 2.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Trek to the Foot of Stanley Glacier & Depart
Day 6
Head south into Kootenay National Park for a hike to Stanley Glacier. Considered one of the park's most spectacular trails, your hike to the base of Stanley Glacier rewards you with a diverse range of terrain. With an endless supply of geological treasures such as hanging valleys, ice caves, sheer cliffs, and towering peaks, these final miles together are the perfect culmination of an amazing exploration of the Canadian Rockies. Your trip concludes in Banff with a drop-off at the hotel.
Activity: 5 miles/2-3 hours hiking with 1,200' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1.5-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.
Adventurers with limited time will love this special week-long adventure in the Canadian Rockies.
Dates & Prices
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.
2026
- Sep 06 - 11, 2026$4,995 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$1,360 Single OccupancyWaitlistConfirmed
2027
- Jun 27 - Jul 02, 2027$4,995 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$1,360 Single OccupancyAvailable - Jul 11 - 16, 2027$4,995 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$1,360 Single OccupancyAvailable - Aug 08 - 13, 2027$4,995 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$1,360 Single OccupancyAvailableConfirmed - Sep 05 - 10, 2027$4,995 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$1,360 Single OccupancyAvailable - Sep 12 - 17, 2027$4,995 price per person dbl occ
Optional:+$1,360 Single OccupancyAvailable
- Go Private
- Go Custom
- Inclusions
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
June, July, August, September
Private Trip Pricing: 2026
10 to 12 guests from $4,995 per person double occupancy
9 guests from $5,195 per person double occupancy
8 guests from $5,395 per person double occupancy
7 guests from $5,795 per person double occupancy
6 guests from $6,295 per person double occupancy
Optional:
$1,360 Single Occupancy
Private Trip Pricing: 2027
10 to 12 guests from $4,995 per person double occupancy
9 guests from $5,195 per person double occupancy
8 guests from $5,495 per person double occupancy
7 guests from $5,895 per person double occupancy
6 guests from $6,395 per person double occupancy
Optional:
$1,360 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.
Take Over One of These Dates
- Jun 27 - Jul 02, 2027
- Jul 11 - 16, 2027
- Sep 05 - 10, 2027
- Sep 12 - 17, 2027
Go Custom
Create Your Very Own Adventure
Dreaming of a trip designed just for you?
- Our award-winning travel experts craft custom adventures—perfect for families, couples, and and groups.
- Enjoy insider access, expert guides, and decades of on-the-ground experience. Since 1969.
Custom Trip Details
- This is a sample itinerary. Let us work with you to perfect an adventure tailored specifically to you.
- Deposit: A 25% non-refundable deposit is required once your itinerary is confirmed.
When to Start Planning
Plan ahead for the best experience.
- Early planning secures preferred accommodations, top guides, and the widest range of activities.
- Ideal planning window: 6+ months before travel
- Short-notice trips (under 3 months): Availability may be limited
Travel Dates
June, July, August, September
Let's start designing your adventure!
Inclusions
Price Includes
- Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
- All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All breakfasts, almost all 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 fees 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 and guide-drivers
- 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.
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.
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
6.5 miles/3-4 hours hiking with 1,560' elevation gain and loss
Day 3
8.6 miles/4 hours hiking with 1,800' elevation gain and loss
Day 4
7 miles/3-4 hours hiking with 1,300' elevation gain and loss
Day 5
6.5 miles/3-5 hours hiking with 1,700' elevation gain and loss
Day 6
5 miles/2-3 hours hiking with 1,200' 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
Enjoy five nights in a comfortable mountain lodge.
Weather
Expect mild summers with rain, clouds and winds near glaciers and mountains. Daytime 55F - 70F. Evenings 35F - 50F.
FAQs
Trip Overview
This six-day adventure brings the Canadian Rockies to life through the insight of MT Sobek's expert local guides, who have been leading trips in Canada for more than 20 years. Perfectly paced and lodge-based in lively Banff, the journey combines world-class hiking with rare access to the region's most spectacular landscapes—from the turquoise lakes and alpine meadows of Banff to the hanging glaciers, ice caves, sheer cliffs, and ancient shale fields of Yoho and Kootenay National Parks.
Legacy of Local Expertise: Our team of local guides are true experts with over 20 years of experience leading trips in Canada.
Prime National Park Access: Hike through the diverse wilderness of three iconic parks: Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay.
Lodge-Based Comfort: Enjoy five nights in a comfortable hotel in lively Banff each evening.
Geological Treasures: Witness rare natural features including hanging glaciers, ice caves, sheer cliffs, and ancient shale fields.
The Canadian Rockies are best experienced from June through September when the high-alpine trails are accessible and the weather is generally mild. During this window, you can expect dry and sunny days, though conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
June to Early July - Early Summer: Enjoy vibrant green meadows prior to the start of peak season, with cooler temperatures, typically in the 50s° to 60s°F.
Mid-July to August - High Summer: This is the warmest period with abundant wildflowers and daytime averages in the 70s°F. It's the most popular time to explore the Canadian Rockies.
September - Early Autumn: September brings active wildlife and cooler mountain air with night temperatures potentially dropping into the 30s°F.
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18. This itinerary is designed with adult travelers in mind, based on daily activity levels, accommodations, and overall group experience.
Families or groups with younger children should check out our private departures, following a health and fitness screening.
This trip’s Level 3 rating reflects the challenge of consecutive active days on varied terrain at higher altitudes. You should be prepared for steady physical effort across six days of exploration.
Sustained Daily Distance: Expect to hike 5 to 6 miles daily, and up to 9 miles, for five days in a row.
Vertical Challenge: Trails feature consistent elevation gains and losses of up to 1,800 feet per day.
Altitude Factor: Hikes reach altitudes up to 8,000 feet, which can make physical exertion feel more strenuous than at sea level.
Varied Terrain: Trails range from maintained paths to boulders and loose rocks. There may be muddy, snowy, or wet surfaces, all requiring good balance.
Arriving and Departing
Once your reservation with MT Sobek is finalized, we'll notify you of your trip's status. After your departure is confirmed to operate, flights and travel arrangements may be purchased. While we can often confirm departures in advance, some decisions may be finalized closer to final payment. We strongly advise checking directly with your Adventure Coordinator before purchasing any non-refundable air arrangements. For expert assistance with your flight plans, we recommend reaching out to Exito Travel at 800-655-4053 or via email at [email protected].
Please consult with your Adventure Coordinator before purchasing non-refundable tickets to ensure your departure is confirmed.
Arrival: Please arrive in Banff, Canada anytime on Day 1 of the itinerary, where your hotel stay has already been reserved by MT Sobek. The closest commercial airport to Banff is Calgary Airport (YYC), approximately a 2-hour drive from Banff. There are daily shuttles (additional cost) between Calgary Airport and Banff that must be pre-booked. Banff Airporter and Brewster Express both provide door-to-door service. You will provide your Banff drop off and pick up location when you book your shuttle.
Departure: Guests will be dropped off in Banff by 3:00 pm on Day 6. Flights out of Calgary should be scheduled after 8:30 pm on Day 6 to allow for any delays between Banff and Calgary. Your guides will drop guests off wherever arrangements have been made to catch the shuttle to Calgary Airport today, or at your hotel if overnighting in Banff. Be sure to book your return shuttle (additional cost) from Banff to Calgary in advance.
We reserve Superior rooms at the Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa or the Banff Ptarmigan Inn (subject to availability) and both require a minimum 2-night stay beyond the dates of your MT Sobek trip for those wishing to arrive early or stay late. Options for extending your stay in Calgary are more flexible. Your Adventure Coordinator can assist with more information if you wish to book additional nights on your own.
Transportation and Transfer
Guests will need to arrange their own transfers via daily shuttle services such as Brewster Express or Banff Airporter , which require pre-booking. MT Sobek cannot arrange this for you.
Fitness, Terrain and Trail Expectations
This is a moderate activity level 3 trip requiring good cardio conditioning for consecutive days on the trail. You will typically hike 3 to 5 hours daily, covering distances between 5 and 9 miles.
Vertical Intensity: Hikes involve significant elevation changes, with most days featuring 1,200' to 1,800' gain and loss.
Terrain Variability: Hiking routes will traverse varied mountain terrain with a mix of maintained trails, boulders, loose shale and scree, and may include muddy, snowy, or wet sections.
Altitude: Trails reach up to 8,000', which increases the physical effort compared to hiking at sea level.
Back-to-Back Active Days: There are no rest days planned on this trip. Because we stay at the same hotel each night, you do have the flexibility to skip a day if you prefer to rest, but to fully experience all the trip has to offer, most guests prefer to join each day’s planned hikes.
To get the most out of your hiking adventure, we recommend starting a training regimen at least two months prior to departure. Focus on building cardiovascular endurance and leg strength to prepare for five consecutive days of hiking on varied terrain.
Engage in aerobic exercise 3 to 4 times a week for at least 45 minutes; activities like brisk walking, hiking, or cycling are excellent for building heart and lung capacity. If possible, practice on trails with elevation gain and loss to condition your muscles for the inclines and descents you will encounter in the parks. Try to maintain an average pace of around two miles per hour, which is a typical group hiking pace on this trip.
It is also essential to spend ample time walking in the hiking boots or trail shoes you plan to wear on the trip to ensure they feel comfortable on the trail and to prevent blisters.
Remember that a gradual, consistent increase in your activity level is much more effective—and safer—than trying to consolidate all your training into the final weeks before the trip.
The group hikes together with regular breaks. Guides help manage pacing so everyone can hike comfortably while maintaining safety and group cohesion. A typical hiking pace on this trip is around two miles per hour.
Accommodations and Meals
Yes, we can accommodate many common dietary restrictions on this trip with advance notice. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets are all successfully accommodated on this itinerary.
Let us know about your dietary restrictions and food allergies as soon as possible, so we can coordinate with guides, hotels, and restaurants. Please also list these on your Participant Information Form.
Yes, a limited number of single rooms are available on this trip. About a third of our travelers go solo, and single room inventory often books up quickly! You can find more information on solo traveler options here .
Packing and Gear
Focus on dressing in layers to accommodate varying weather conditions. It is common to start hiking in a T-shirt at lower elevations and need warm layers, wind protection, or rain gear as you gain altitude or as conditions shift.
Versatile Layers: You may hike in very warm or cold conditions, sometimes on the same day. We recommend synthetic or wool/synthetic blend clothing that insulates well, wicks moisture, and dries quickly. Cotton is discouraged in cold or wet conditions, as it retains moisture and can lead to chilling. Each day, you should plan to carry a warm layer and rain shell in your daypack, even if the weather looks clear when you set out. Being well layered and prepared allows you to stay comfortable and enjoy the hiking no matter what the mountains deliver. UPF clothing that provides sun protection is especially helpful for hiking in the mountains.
Wind and Rain Protection: No matter when you are hiking, full rain protection—a waterproof, breathable rain jacket and rain pants (Gore-Tex or similar)—is essential, as wind and rain can cause temperatures to drop rapidly, even in summer. Warm gloves and a hat that covers your ears are also important to carry at all times.
Sturdy Footwear: Well broken-in footwear is key for hiking In the Canadian Rockies. Purchase hiking boots or trail shoes with ankle support and solid soles well in advance of the trip and train in your boots to reduce the risk of blisters on the trip.
Comfortable Daypack: A quality daypack with 25- to 35-liters of capacity for your water, snacks, layers and other essentials is key. Train with the pack you’ll use on the trip and be sure it has a hip belt for comfort and weight distribution.
Be sure to review the full Packing List provided for the trip. You may or may not need to use all the items that we recommend depending on the conditions you encounter on your trip, but it is important to carry them in case they are needed.
A daypack with a 25- to 35-liter capacity is ideal. It must be large enough to carry your fleece, rain shell, two liters of water, picnic lunch, and other daily essentials.
You should be prepared for all conditions regardless of your departure date. June and late August departures should specifically include warm layers, as evening temperatures can drop to the 30s°F. Afternoon thundershowers are common, making high-quality rain gear essential throughout the season.
On-the-Ground Travel Tips
The Rockies feature a temperate climate that is generally dry and sunny during the months when our trips operate, but weather can shift rapidly in the mountains.
Variable Conditions: Expect everything from hot and sunny days to cool, rainy weather within a single trip, or even within the same day. Patches of snow persist at high altitude, even into the summer months, and while fresh snowfall in summer is atypical, it is always a possibility at higher altitudes.
Average Temperatures: Average summer daytime temperatures are in the 70s°F but can drop to the 50s°F or 30s°F at elevation and at night.
Afternoon Thunderstorms: Brief, intense thundershowers are common in the afternoons, requiring a rain shell and warm layers at the ready.
Both the US and Canada use 120-volt electricity with the same plug types (A and B), so no adapters or converters are needed.
For international guests, check to see if your electronics are dual voltage, or if you need a converter as well as a plug adapter.
Banff is a premier mountain destination, so we recommend budgeting approximately $150-$300 for personal expenses such as drinks, souvenirs, laundry, and meals on your own, not including optional gratuities. The shuttle services you’ll arrange independently in advance typically cost around $100 per person each way.
Health and Safety
Yes, we strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance for all trips. Travel insurance can help cover trip cancellations or interruptions, medical expenses, emergency evacuation, travel delays, and other unexpected situations. We offer travel insurance with Arch RoamRight and will be happy to provide you with a quote. Please see our Travel Resources page for more information.
Trail Support and Emergencies
Your guides are trained in emergency response and will take appropriate action based on the situation, terrain, and conditions at the time. Your guides will coordinate the most appropriate evacuation method, and are equipped with emergency communication devices. Medical facilities are available in the region but may be some distance away, and evacuation can be complex and time-consuming. For this reason, we strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that includes emergency medical evacuation coverage.

