Experience the wild beauty of Banff and Jasper National Parks together as a family. Explore forest trails, splash through clear mountain rivers, and walk on the mighty Athabasca Glacier for a Canadian Rockies adventure everyone will remember forever.
Start - End: Calgary - Calgary
Total trip: 6 days
Average group size: 12 people
Level: 2
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Adventure abounds with glacier hikes, river rafting, horseback riding, and backcountry biking through Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise. At the end of these fun-filled days, relax in one of our cozy lodges before indulging in some of Western Canada’s tastiest gourmet cuisine.
Kick back with the family and recount how many elk, bear, and eagles you spied and laugh over the new lifelong memories you created. We can guarantee you’ll never forget your time exploring the pristine wilderness of “Wild Rose Country” on this stress-free, all-inclusive Alberta family vacation.
Sentinel Pass
Hike through golden larch forests to reach sweeping alpine views over the Valley of the Ten Peaks, a true Rockies highlight.
Bill Milne Path
Pedal a gentle trail through Kananaskis Country, surrounded by forest, fresh air, and endless mountain views.
Banff to Bow Falls
Ride along the Bow River to the base of thundering Bow Falls for a quick, scenic spin with plenty of "Wow!" moments.
Each day is packed with fun-filled family action out in the wilderness together in some of the world's most beautiful landscapes.
Click map below to explore.
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After morning pickups, it’s time to saddle up and discover your inner cowboy at Rafter Six Ranch! During this two-hour trail ride, you’ll ride through beautiful forest and breathtaking scenery with experienced guides who know the lands well. Our afternoon takes us to The Canadian Mount Everest trail, but don’t worry this easy-going trail only has about 400 feet (122 meters) of elevation change and takes us to the lookout overlooking Elk Pass and the Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes. It is truly some impressive far-reaching views of massive mountain ranges, some with snowcapped peaks.
After our hike, we head to your home for the next two nights, Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, to settle in and enjoy dinner with your travel companions. A comfortable and contemporary retreat nestled against the Canadian Rockies, the Kananaskis Mountain Lodge is equal parts rustic mountain retreat and elegant hotel. Rest, relax, and rejuvenate as you take in beautiful views and surrounded with every comfort.
Accommodation: Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Kananaskis Village
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Horse-back Riding: 2 hours
Hiking: 2 miles (3 kilometers)
This morning we will stretch our legs with a hike on the Troll Falls Trail to see three waterfalls including the trail’s namesake, Troll Falls. An amazing picnic made by your guides will fuel you for your afternoon adventure. You’ll load into rafts and paddle the exciting class II and III rapids of the Kananaskis River. This thrilling adventure will have you catching waves and river runs with views of the mountaintops in the background. You’re guaranteed to get splashed on this ride!
This evening you'll have some time to relax and enjoy the lodge and another great dinner with your family and fellow travelers.
Accommodation: Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Kananaskis Village
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 2.5 miles (4 kilometers)
Rafting: 2-3 hours
Start your day off in Kootenay National Park for a scenic walk through Marble Canyon. This nearly two-mile out-and-back trek will lead you over several bridges over a deep ravine. You may also have the chance to soak your feet in blue glacier water at the “beach” near the first bridge if time allows.. After a picnic lunch we will visit the iconic Lake Louise and have some time to take in the breath-taking views.
Tonight explore Banff on your own to find the perfect dinner spot with your family.
Accommodation: Hotel Canoe Inn & Suites, Banff
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Hiking: 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers)
Spend an entire day hiking one of the most stunning alpine settings in the Canadian Rockies, where you’ll learn about the land and plant life around you. Begin the day with a gondola ride up to Sunshine Meadows to gain elevation, then trek through an incredible landscape surrounded by some of the Rockies’ highest peaks. Take in unobstructed, panoramic views as our high alpine trail winds its way past waterfalls, lakes, and flower-filled meadows.
Accommodation: Hotel Canoe Inn & Suites, Banff
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: 6-8 miles (9-13 kilometers)
Wake up early today for a scenic morning drive along the Icefield Parkway past numerous ice fields and glaciers. Arrive at Athabasca Glacier on the edge of Jasper National Park, where you’ll be outfitted with crampons and walking sticks. Spend the afternoon hiking the glacier alongside a mountain guide, learning about its formation and the powerful way it shapes the land. Shuttle back to Banff for some time to relax before our farewell dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Canoe Inn & Suites, Banff
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hiking: Athabasca Glacier, 3 hours
Get out for a two-mile loop hike around Johnson Lake, where the water is perfectly framed by rolling mountaintops. This lake is at a lower level of elevation and the trail welcomes hikers of all levels. Circle around the lake clockwise with Cascade Mountain in the background. Enjoy a mid-morning snack before heading to the airport for departures home.
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast
Hiking: Up to 2 miles (3 kilometers)
Find out more about what to expect on your unforgettable family adventure in Banff and Jasper National Parks.
On the first morning of the trip, our two pick-up locations are Hotel 11 by Sonesta at 8:00am or the Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire at 8:30am. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at either of these hotels directly or any other hotel in Calgary, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times.
Your trip ends with a drop-off at either the Calgary Airport at 1pm in time for flights below or at a hotel of your choice in Calgary around 1:30pm.
Arrival: We recommend arriving in Calgary at least the day before your trip starts. Many guests like to arrive a day or two early to accommodate potential flight delays and/or explore the city prior to your trip start.
Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Calgary after 3pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.
We have selected the accommodation on your trip for the stunning settings, unique character and adventuresome feel – it’s not designed as a tour of the fanciest hotels in Kananaskis and Banff. We prefer to stay in accommodations close to the park and our activities for the day that are comfortable after a full day of exploration.
While there are laundry facilities at some locations, they may not be convenient or there may only be one machine to service your entire group. We recommend bringing enough clothing to not have to do laundry during your trip. If needed, the best time will be in Banff after the days activities on Day 4.
By paying in full, we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.
We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.
T+Cs Apply. Read more here.
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With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.
It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!
When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!
Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.
Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.
For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience.
