With an endless supply of dreamy 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 views. Spend six days exploring the finest trails within the Canadian Rockies, from the ancient shale fields surrounding Stanley Glacier to the rocky shores of crystal-clear Helen Lake. Be inspired by the blue-green waters of Moraine Lake and the Valley of Ten Peaks. Your hikes will showcase an array of diverse and sublime wilderness and by the end of each awe-inspiring day, you'll fall asleep refreshed, renewed, and inspired for your next amazing trek.
With an endless supply of dreamy 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 views. Spend six days exploring the finest trails within the Canadian Rockies, from the ancient shale fields surrounding Stanley Glacier to the rocky shores of crystal-clear Helen Lake. Be inspired by the blue-green waters of Moraine Lake and the Valley of Ten Peaks. Your hikes will showcase an array of diverse and sublime wilderness and by the end of each awe-inspiring day, you'll fall asleep refreshed, renewed, and inspired for your next amazing trek.
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 Inn
Follow 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 Inn
Activity: 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 Inn
Activity: 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 Inn
Activity: 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 Inn
Activity: 4.5 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
Gather your favorite travel companions—family, friends, colleagues, or club—and enjoy an exclusive departure that’s easy to book and completely unforgettable.
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
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
4.5 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.
Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park on Banff Avenue, the Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa offers a quintessential mountain lodge experience—characterized by hand-hewn log accents, a grand fieldstone fireplace, and sweeping views of the Rockies. Just a short stroll or quick transit ride from downtown shops and restaurants, it's wonderfully positioned for both adventure and relaxation.
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
Expect mild summers with rain, clouds and winds near glaciers and mountains. Daytime 55F - 70F. Evenings 35F - 50F.
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
Trip Overview
What makes MT Sobek's Canadian Rockies Hiking trip unique?
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.
When is the best time to experience Canadian Rockies Hiking?
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.
What is the group size for this trip?
The typical group size for this trip is between 4 and 12 guests, creating an experience that feels personal, relaxed, and thoughtfully paced. Small group travel allows us to share moments that make a journey truly memorable.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
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.
What makes this a Level 3 trip?
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.
Will the itinerary change?
We plan the itinerary carefully, but adjustments may be needed due to weather, trail conditions, or other factors. MT Sobek and our guides make thoughtful decisions when needed in real time to keep the experience safe and enjoyable, and any significant changes will be communicated as early and as clearly as possible.
Arriving and Departing
Where does the trip start and end?
The trip starts and ends in the mountain town of Banff, Alberta, in Canada.
What airport should I fly into and out of?
You should fly into and out of Calgary Airport (YYC). This is the closest commercial hub to Banff, located approximately a 2-hour drive away.
When should I book my flights?
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.
When should I arrive and depart?
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 (YCC), 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.
Who will I meet on Day 1, and where?
On Day 1, you will transfer independently from Calgary to your host hotel in Banff. No activities are scheduled for this day. You will meet your guide team and fellow travelers, dressed and ready for hiking, on Day 2 at 7:00 am for breakfast or at 8:00 am in the hotel lobby for the morning briefing. Specific meeting locations will be confirmed in your Final Details.
What hotels do you recommend if I arrive early or stay late?
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.
Do I need a passport or visa for this trip?
US citizens need a valid passport for this trip. Non-US citizens should verify entry requirements with the appropriate authorities based on their citizenship.
Transportation and Transfer
Are airport transfers included?
Airport transfers are not included on this trip. Guests are responsible for arranging their own transportation between Calgary Airport (YYC) and Banff. See below for details on how to arrange your transfer.
Can MT Sobek help arrange a private 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.
How much time will we spend in vehicles during the trip?
Most days are activity-focused with short transfers to reach trailheads in Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks. Private van transfers typically range from 1.5 to 2.5 hours in total each day, including round-trip travel time between the Banff hotel and your hiking destinations.
Are there any especially long travel days?
There are no especially long travel days on this itinerary. The longest transfers are approximately 2.5 hours round-trip on Days 3 and 5 to reach Yoho and Kootenay National Parks.
Fitness, Terrain and Trail Expectations
How difficult is the activity on Canadian Rockies Hiking?
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.
Do I need prior experience?
Prior hiking experience is highly recommended to ensure you are comfortable on uneven surfaces and have the stamina for multiple days of activity. While you don't need technical rock-climbing skills, you should be confident walking on varied trail surfaces and navigating trails with switchbacks and occasional steep inclines and declines.
How should I train or prepare for Canadian Rockies Hiking?
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.
Is there exposure or technical terrain on Canadian Rockies Hiking?
This is not a technical climbing trip, but some trails include steep sections and uneven footing on loose, rocky or snowy surfaces. Guides manage the pace and route carefully to ensure safety throughout the journey.
Can I hike at my own pace?
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.
What if I want to skip a day?
This trip offers ample flexibility, as you return to the same lodge each evening. If you need a rest, typically you may choose to skip the organized hikes on Day 2, Day 3, Day 4, or Day 5 to relax at the lodge or explore Banff independently.
How much free time will I have?
Days are primarily centered on active exploration, but you will have downtime most evenings. Day 1 is entirely free for independent exploration of Banff. After each day's hike, you will return to the lodge with time to unwind before dinner.
Accommodations and Meals
What should I expect from accommodations on this trip?
You will stay in a comfortable mountain lodge that provides a cozy, restful base for your adventures, conveniently located in central Banff. Accommodations feature quintessential mountain character, such as hand-hewn log accents, grand fieldstone fireplaces, or indoor hot tubs and saunas in common areas.
Will I have access to Wi-Fi and electricity?
Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi and standard electricity are readily available at the host hotel in Banff.
What meals are included?
All breakfasts, all lunches, and almost all dinners are included from breakfast on Day 2 through lunch on Day 6. No meals are included on Day 1. Dinner is on your own on Day 3. Specific meal inclusions are noted in your daily itinerary.
What is the food like on Canadian Rockies Hiking?
Meals are designed to fuel active days, beginning with breakfast at the hotel and continuing with picnic lunches enjoyed on the trail amidst gorgeous scenery. For dinner, you will sample the diverse fare of local restaurants in Banff, often dining on set menus. Alcohol is not included in the trip price but is available for purchase.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
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.
Are single rooms available?
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 .
Are triple rooms available?
Triple rooms are not offered on this trip to ensure all accommodations meet MT Sobek standards for your comfort.
Packing and Gear
What should I pack for Canadian Rockies Hiking?
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.
Do I need trekking poles or specialty gear?
Trekking poles are strongly recommended for stability on rocky or snowy terrain and to reduce impact on your joints during elevation changes. MT Sobek provides trekking poles, though you are welcome to bring your own.
What size daypack should I bring?
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.
Can I bring more than one bag?
We recommend bringing one main piece of luggage and a daypack, but you're welcome to bring additional pieces within the guidance provided by the shuttle service provider when you book directly with them.
Are there any seasonally required items?
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.
What kind of footwear should I bring for this trip?
You will need sturdy, medium-weight, waterproof hiking boots or trail shoes. Look for features like solid soles to protect against rocks and good ankle support.
Will I have access to laundry during the trip?
Yes, your hotel has laundry facilities available for guests.
Should I bring a personal medical kit?
Yes. While your guides carry a group first aid kit, we recommend bringing a personal kit with items like blister care (moleskin or Compeed), bandages, and sunscreen, along with any personal medications.
On-the-Ground Travel Tips
What is the weather like on Canadian Rockies Hiking?
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.
What currency should I bring?
The official currency is the Canadian dollar (CAD). While credit cards are widely used, you can exchange money at Calgary Airport or use ATMs in Calgary and Banff for cash needs.
Will I have cell service?
Cell service is generally available in the town of Banff and at the host hotel. However, coverage is inconsistent and often unavailable while on the trails in the national parks.
Will I need electrical adapters or a voltage converter?
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.
How much extra money should I budget?
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.
How is tipping handled on this trip?
Tipping is a common practice to show appreciation for your guide team's expertise. We recommend a gratuity of $50 to $70 USD or $70 to $100 CAD per guest, per day. Gratuities should be delivered in cash or via PayPal to the trip leader for equitable distribution. Tips for all hotel and restaurant staff are included in your trip price.
Health and Safety
Do you recommend travel insurance?
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.
Do I need to be cleared by a doctor to participate?
There is no standard required clearance from a doctor to participate in this trip. You will have an opportunity to discuss your fitness and preparedness for the trip with MT Sobek. If you have medical concerns or questions about fitness, consult your healthcare provider before traveling.
What medical support is available during the trip?
Your adventure guides are trained in standard first aid, including CPR, and are certified by the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG) or the Interpretive Guides Association (IGA). Guides are also trained in safety protocols and carry a group first aid kit and an emergency communication device. Medical facilities are available but can be far from remote trail locations.
What kind of challenges should I expect on Canadian Rockies Hiking?
You'll hike mountain trails that may include rocky sections, roots, loose rock, scree, and wet conditions that require careful footing. Some hikes take place at higher elevations, where activity can feel more strenuous, especially on days with sustained elevation gain or back-to-back hiking. Training on varied terrain before the trip will help build confidence, stamina, and surefootedness. Throughout the journey, your guides will set a steady pace, adjust plans as conditions require, and share helpful tips to keep you comfortable, confident, and in good spirits.
How can I stay healthy during the trip?
Hydration is key; aim for a total capacity of two liters of water daily and use powdered electrolytes. Practice good foot care by using liner socks and addressing hot spots immediately. Regular hand washing or use of hand sanitizer, especially before meals, is essential for wellness.
Trail Support and Emergencies
What if I have an emergency and need to be evacuated?
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.
Are bathrooms available on the trail?
Bathroom facilities are not typically available while on the trails. Your guides will provide instruction on Leave No Trace practices to ensure any necessary breaks are handled responsibly and privately.
What is the guide-to-guest ratio?
This trip features one guide for groups of up to five guests, with a second guide added for groups of 6 to 12 guests to maintain personal attention and safety.
Extensions and Local Exploration
Are trip extensions available before or after Canadian Rockies Hiking?
Trip extensions are not available for this itinerary. If you're arriving early or staying late, please plan on making your own arrangements. Some helpful recommendations are provided below.
What are the best things to do if I arrive early or stay late?
Banff offers numerous activities for independent exploration, such as soaking in the historic Upper Hot Springs or strolling through the local museums and art galleries in downtown Banff. You can also explore the network of walking trails surrounding the town or experience the lively mountain dining scene and local boutiques.
