Classic Canadian Rockies

Classic Canadian Rockies

7 Days Starting and ending in Calgary

Visiting: Calgary, Lake Louise, Jasper National Park, Maligne Lake / Jasper National Park, Athabasca Glacier / Banff, Banff National Park

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

SEKW

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

15-99 years

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Adventure Tours

From: $3835

NB: Prices correct on 23-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Though they formed some 75 million years ago, there’s no time like the present to pay the Canadian Rockies a visit. Over the course of this seven-day adventure, you’ll travel up and down the Icefields Parkway and see all the natural highlights the Rockies have to offer: impossibly blue lakes, rushing glacial waterfalls and maybe even a classically Canadian critter or two. Breathe in views of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Peyto Lake, cruise along Maligne Lake for a view of enchanting Spirit Island, walk along Athabasca Glacier, and get a birds-eye view of Banff from the top of Sulphur Mountain. If those peaks weren’t enough, there’s also the chance to pique your curiosity during a guided Indigenous Medicine walk of Banff National Park. Why wait to see it any longer?

Highlights

  • See the Athabasca Glacier up close and personal during a walk on an arm of the Columbia Icefield, an experience that will feel other-worldly.

  • Cruise on the magical Maligne Lake, soaking up the mountain views as you navigate to the iconic – and culturally significant – Spirit Island.

  • Soak up traditional knowledge about Banff’s flora and fauna on an Indigenous Medicine Walk around the national park.

  • Find yourself in a fairytale at Moraine Lake, with its deep blue surface surrounded by towering mountain peaks.

  • Finish your adventure at the top of Sulphur Mountain, having a restaurant dinner with an unbeatable and unforgettable view of the Rockies.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Water First. Donations support their work to provide critical clean, safe water for indigenous communities in Canada.

  • By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, Water First. Donations support their work to provide critical clean, safe water for indigenous communities in Canada. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Calgary

Location: Calgary

Accommodation: Hotel

Welcome to Calgary, eh? Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you’ll be briefed on the upcoming activities and meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive in the city with time to spare, you might like to experience some renowned Canadian hospitality at Calgary’s budding dining scene. If you’d prefer to get out and about, you could check out Prince’s Island Park, see the skyline from the top of Calgary Tower or work up a sweat at Canada Olympic Park.

Day 2: Lake Louise

Location: Lake Louise

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast

This morning you’ll head out from the city and into the mountains, your sights set on a pair of impossibly blue glacier-fed lakes. See the splendour of Moraine Lake, backed by ten snow-dusted peaks and world-famous Lake Louise. They'll leave you either wide-eyed, open-mouthed or some combination of the two, and there’ll be ample time to explore the lakes and their surrounding areas.

Included Activities:
-Visit to Moraine Lake (seasonal)

Day 3: Jasper National Park

Location: Jasper National Park

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

Rise early to head up the Icefields Parkway into Jasper National Park. This is one drive where the journey really is the destination. The Parkway runs between towering glacier-capped peaks and past pristine lakes and offers plenty of opportunities to break for a short hike (which you’ll do). Before arriving in the town of Jasper, stop off at fox-shaped Peyto Lake and the powerful Sunwapta Falls. Throughout the day, keep your eyes peeled for quintessential Rockies wildlife like elk, moose, deer, bears and bighorn sheep. In the afternoon you’ll have some time to explore the park at your own speed. To pick up the pace you might consider renting a bike from one of the shops in town and exploring some of the local trails.

Included Activities:
-Jasper National Park

Day 4: Maligne Lake / Jasper National Park

Location: Maligne Lake / Jasper National Park

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Today you’ll find out for yourself why Maligne Lake is featured on so many jigsaw puzzles. Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged, ready to capture shots of the jagged mountains and bright green pine forests that surround its glacial waters. Take to the water on a panoramic cruise down the lake, sailing in a glass-enclosed and heated boat while a guide describes the area’s geology, ecology and history. The highlight will be a stop for a nature walk to views of iconic Spirit Island which is only accessible by boat, where you’ll learn about its significance to the Stoney Nakoda First Nation. This evening, join your group for an included dinner at a local restaurant.

Included Activities:
-Jasper - Maligne Lake cruise

Day 5: Athabasca Glacier / Banff

Location: Athabasca Glacier / Banff

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch

After gazing at glaciers from a distance, today you’ll get the chance to step foot on one! Board a custom-built all-terrain vehicle and head out on an ice explorer tour of the Athabasca Glacier. You will be able to walk on the glacier and even take a drink from its icy meltwater. Enjoy a picnic lunch to finish the outing before continuing to the town of Banff.

Included Activities:
-Banff National Park
-Columbia Icefield Adventure - Athabasca Glacier Explorer

Day 6: Banff National Park

Location: Banff National Park

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner

Buckle up for the beauty of Banff National Park. Today’s all about seeing as much of the park as you can, weaving your way through history as you see the Rockies’ valleys and mountain chains which began forming up to 75 million years ago. There’s also time to connect further with the land on an Indigenous Medicine Walk, where your guide will share traditional Cree knowledge of the area’s plants, trees and bushes. To end the day on a high, you’ll take the gondola up to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Named for the two sulphurous hot springs found on its lower slopes, the peak offers breathtaking, panoramic views of the Rockies – which you’ll be able to bask in during a farewell dinner on the mountaintop.

Included Activities:
-Banff - Indigenous Medicine Walk
-Banff - Cable Car up Sulphur Mountain

Day 7: Calgary

Location: Calgary

Meals Included: breaksfast

Today you’ll complete your grand tour of the Rockies and drive back to Calgary. There are no activities and accommodation planned for the day, and your adventure will end on arrival.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotels (6 nights)

  • Visit to Moraine Lake

  • Jasper National Park

  • Jasper - Maligne Lake cruise

  • Banff National Park

  • Columbia Icefield Adventure - Athabasca Glacier Explorer

  • Banff - Indigenous Medicine Walk

  • Banff - Cable Car up Sulphur Mountain

  • Meals

    6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

  • Visit to Moraine Lake (seasonal)

What's Not Included

  • Insurance

  • International Travel

Transport

AIRPORT TRANSFERS IN THE USA & CANADAWe recommend taxis and rideshare services like Lyft and Uber when traveling to and from hotels in the USA and Canada. These services are widely available across North America, offering convenient and accessible transportation options. Private transfers in North America incur high costs and present an increased risk of missed connections due to their fixed schedules. In contrast, taxis and rideshares offer both cost-effectiveness and flexibility, ensuring a smoother journey. With transparent pricing, GPS tracking, and on-demand availability, we believe that taxis and rideshare apps not only offer a reliable alternative to private transfers but also provide a secure, trustworthy, and budget-friendly transportation option for our customers.NORTH AMERICA VEHICLESOur large fleet of 15-passenger vans are fully equipped with air-conditioning system, V8 engines and any camping or cooking equipment needed for your trip. Most have cloth-upholstered seats and carpeted interior with radio or CD players. Your luggage is typically transported in a trailer which is towed behind the van.The vans are regularly serviced by a well-established network of maintenance and service facilities throughout the continent. However, unforeseen maintenance problems can still occur while on the road and we appreciate the patience of our travellers as we make necessary repairs as quickly as possible.While your group will have a van for all included activities on the trip, the services of the van and leader may not be available for your use during free time, or after you have arrived for the day. If you need a special trip into town you may need to arrange transport or a taxi.

Accommodation

The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.

Important Information

1. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6pm on Day 1 in Calgary.2. On the final day, this trip finishes at approximately 12 pm on arrival in Calgary. You will be dropped at the same location as the joining point. If departing this day, please do not book any flights before 3 pm.3. A single supplement is available on this trip.4. Please note that the legal drinking age in the US is 21 and in some parts of Canada it's 19.5. MAY 24, 2025 DEPARTURE:The Maligne Lake Cruise will not be available on this departure. Instead, you will join a local expert for a wildlife tour in Jasper National Park. You will still be able to visit Maligne Lake for a walk and photos.6. We are not able to book airport shuttle service for North America trips. North America has convenient taxi and rideshare options from all airports, as well as public transport systems in major hub cities. Please check the joining and finishing point instructions listed in the Essential Trip Information.

Mode of Transport

FLEETOur large fleet of vans are fully equipped with dual air-conditioning system, V8 engines and any camping or cooking equipment needed for your trip. Most have cloth-upholstered seats and carpeted interior with radio/tape or CD players. Your baggage is transported in a trailer which is towed behind the van.The vans are regularly serviced in our own maintenance facility and continuously checked and serviced by a well established network of maintenance and service facilities throughout the continent. However, unforeseen maintenance problems can still occur while on the road and we appreciate the patience of our travellers as we make necessary repairs as quickly as possible.DRIVING TIMESAll driving times mentioned in our itinerary are intended as a guide only and represent an estimated driving time - not including lunch stops, fuel stops, photo stops, traffic congestion, adverse weather conditions or any last minute alterations to the itinerary for any unforeseen circumstances. Please note that there are some long driving days on this tour - we'll have some starts as early as 7am and late arrivals at our final destination, sometimes after dark). As always, your group leader will make stops for viewpoints, short walks and lunch
est breaks to help break up the journey.We recommend you are fully prepared for these long travel days by reviewing our notes and indicated drive times. Some travellers prefer to bring pillows on board for added comfort, others prefer reading material or games and puzzles. The reality is that to get from one fabulous location to another, the distances are great and we like to think at least some of the adventure is in the journey - not just the destination. You'll be on board with up to 12 other passengers plus your group leader so patience and cooperation goes a long way in making this journey a comfortable one.SEAT BELT POLICYSafety is our priority and therefore our travellers are asked to sign a document on Day 1 of the itinerary indicating your understanding of our seat belt policy.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    As we're travelling through the mountains, the weather can be unpredictable. We advise wearing layers at all times of the year in case conditions change during the day. At night the temperature can really drop, so make sure you have warm clothing with you.

    In summer, especially in July and August, be prepared for insects. This is mosquito and black fly season so it's important to bring insect repellent, which will help prevent you from being bitten.

    In 2024, Jasper experienced a significant wildfire, but much of its beauty remains untouched. As we return in 2025, you’ll witness firsthand how nature is beginning its recovery after this important and natural process that is vital to the region's ecology. This is also a crucial time to support local businesses as they rebuild from the fire’s impact. Join us in experiencing Jasper’s resilience and natural beauty while helping the community recover.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon!

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic.

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure!

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best.

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

Merouane Harkat   Uk

Explore Southern Africa

08-Mar-2024

Best trip ever was, 2 things I didn't like the black mamba stop was wasting day and village ,so 2 night I think was just wasting, I could do 2 days in Kruger, and one more night in delta

Alan Perrott (Google Reviewer)  

We had a fantastic time...

13-Aug-2024

We had a fantastic time on the Botswana Highlights tour recently. We chose Intrepid because it seemed to suit what we wanted - well planned itinerary, small group, comfortable without being overly luxurious (and pricey), and supportive of the local community and environment. We weren't disappointed, and as we met with other like-minded travellers then we all had a great time. We are already planning our next Intrepid tour - maybe Vietnam & Cambodia :-)

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Prices last published on 22-Dec-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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