Canadian Rockies Backcountry Escape
15 days
Enjoyable for all in reasonable health.
Quality transportation and accommodation in an uncommon environment, with the chance of occasional slight discomfort. E.g. an arctic polar bear tour
Trip Overview |
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Itinerary |
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Accommodation |
A self-drive Canada vacation package is ideal for those wanting to experience the natural beauty and wildlife of the Rockies, and combine it with some unique mountain lodges and rustic accommodations off the usual tourist trail.
Combine the must-sees like Banff and Yoho national parks with some little known spots which are popular with local Albertans. Waterton Lakes National Park is a perfect example on the US border. The park is linked with Montana’s Glacier National Park to create a trans-border park which preserves the wildlife, canyons, peaks and lakes.
This is a flexible self-drive itinerary with free time to hike or canoe - you decide. Explore the Athabasca glacier in the Ice Explore, ride the gondola to the see the panoramic view of Bow Valley from the peak of Sulphur Mountain, and canoe Pyramid Lake.
Note: Canada vacations are fully customizable - ask your consultant about making it shorter or longer, change activities or upgrade hotels when you book.
Combine the must-sees like Banff and Yoho national parks with some little known spots which are popular with local Albertans. Waterton Lakes National Park is a perfect example on the US border. The park is linked with Montana’s Glacier National Park to create a trans-border park which preserves the wildlife, canyons, peaks and lakes.
This is a flexible self-drive itinerary with free time to hike or canoe - you decide. Explore the Athabasca glacier in the Ice Explore, ride the gondola to the see the panoramic view of Bow Valley from the peak of Sulphur Mountain, and canoe Pyramid Lake.
Note: Canada vacations are fully customizable - ask your consultant about making it shorter or longer, change activities or upgrade hotels when you book.
Outline
1 night Calgary Airport
3 nights Waterton
3 nights Banff
3 nights Lake Louise
3 nights Jasper
1 night Calgary Airport
1 night Calgary Airport
3 nights Waterton
3 nights Banff
3 nights Lake Louise
3 nights Jasper
1 night Calgary Airport
ITINERARY
Day 1 Your Canada Vacation Package Begins - Arrive Calgary
Calgary is a cowboy town that started off a little rough-and-ready and has developed into a vibrant and fun city. Check into your hotel and the remainder of the day is left for you to explore on own.
Day 2 Calgary to Waterton
Waterton Lakes National Park is an unspoiled gem on the Canada - US border and a favorite destination on Canada vacations. The park borders Montana's Glacier National Park, creating an international peace park. Visit the natural wonders of Cameron Falls and Red Rock Canyon; the thriving wilderness provides the perfect backdrop for wildlife viewing.
Days 3 & 4 Waterton - Crypt Lake Trail or Cross the border by boat
You have 2 full days to explore Waterton National Park. We suggest a day hike and boat trip for each of your days here. Allow a full day for the Crypt Lake Trail. The trail is reached by a boat taxi, navigates natural tunnels carved by erosion, traverses a sheer cliff and passes a 600 ft waterfall before reaching the clear turquoise waters of Crypt Lake.
Go for a cruise across the border from Canada to the United States on the historic M.V. "International", in service since 1927. Take your camera along to capture the views of towering cliffs, beautiful waterfalls and the snow covered peaks of the Rocky Mountains. The boat makes stops for photography and wildlife viewing - watch for Bald Eagles, bear, moose, deer, mountain sheep and mountain goats.
Day 5 Waterton to Banff
A stop that shouldn’t be missed on Canada driving vacations is Pincher Creek. The Kootenai Brown Historical Park provides an insight into the area with the display of over 7,000 local historical artifacts. Several log cabins are set in the park surrounding the museum. One of which dates back to 1889, and belonged to Kootenai Brown. This interesting Englishman came to the Waterton Lakes country and stayed to operate a trading post and later became park guardian.
Day 6 Explore Banff
Banff National Park preserves 6641 square kilometers of mountains, forest and lakes. Tour the quaint community of Banff - the gateway to this beautiful wilderness. Highlights include The Hoodoos - curiously shaped rock formations created by centuries of erosion - Surprise Corner, Tunnel Mountain Drive, and the ominous Sulphur Mountain that towers over the town. The Cave & Basin historic site commemorates the 1885 birthplace of Canada’s National Park system.
Day 7 The Wildlife of Banff on Canada Vacations
You have a full day to explore Banff on own. We have included a Banff City Passport which offers you lots of discounts to a number of attractions, restaurants and admissions to museums. This is a great day to enjoy a guided hike in Banff National Park, play a round of golf at the famous Fairmont Banff Springs golf course, take a thrilling white water ride on one of the rivers close by, or relax and take in a spa treatment at the Fairmont Banff Springs Spa & Grotto.
Day 8 Banff to Emerald Lake Lodge via Lake Louise
A small warmly lit lodge sits at the side of a luminous turquoise lake. This kind of serenity can only be found in the Canadian Rockies on your Canada vacation package. Emerald Lake Lodge is stunning no matter what time of year it is, whether the sun is shining on a sea of green or lighting up the snow, you’re sure to feel the romance and relaxation of this spot.
On your drive to Emerald Lake Lodge, stop at Lake Louise, Canada’s most beautiful scenic stop.
Day 9 & 10 Emerald Lake Lodge - a must see destination on Canada vacations
Emerald Lake was discovered in 1882 during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. The original lodge was built in 1902 by the Canadian Pacific Railway. This historical lodge is built from hand-hewn timber and has been renovated, featuring massive stone fireplaces and now offers a secluded escape in a beautiful wilderness location.
Embrace amazing outdoor adventures on your Canada Vacation package! The surrounding mountains and wilderness offer activities for every level of hiking experience, fitness or preference. The lodge can arrange guides, provide maps and directions. Hike to the second highest waterfall in Canada - Takakkaw Falls, the beauty of Lake O'Hara, the Natural Bridge, the Burgess Shale or visit the Spiral Tunnels (the CPR train track inside a mountain).
Day 11 Your Canada Vacation Package Brings You to Jasper Park Lodge
Head on to Jasper along one of the world’s most scenic drives. The Icefields Parkways’ scenic route passes picturesque alpine lakes and alpine vistas. Drive in the shadow of towering mountains on this spectacular highway, revealing a panorama of peaks, glaciers, waterfalls and valleys. Take a break to venture out onto the Athabasca glacier aboard the 6 wheeled Ice Explorer, which is a must see and included in your package.
Arrive in Jasper and settle in to your elegant rustic lodge cabin, set in a tranquil forest location. This kind of relaxation can only be found on Canada vacations!
Day 12 The Wonders of Geology at Maligne Lake
Discover one of the most spectacular areas of Jasper National Park. A short walk leads you to view the Maligne River as it cascades down the canyon in a series of waterfalls. From your guide’s vibrant commentary learn about the “mysteriously” disappearing Medicine Lake before reaching Maligne Lake for a 90-minute interpretative boat cruise bound for Spirit Island. Take your camera to capture this truly picture postcard setting. If you wish the included cruise in your package can be substituted with a 75 minute lakeside walk.
Day 13 Canoe Pyramid Lake
Paddle a canoe on the tranquil waters of Pyramid Lake and perhaps glimpse a bald eagle soaring overhead, a beaver swimming along the shoreline or a moose grazing in the water. Featuring wonderful views of Jasper National Park’s rugged alpine beauty, this delicate and carefully protected ecosystems lies unspoiled for you to enjoy.
Day 14 Back to Calgary
Journey back down the Icefields Parkway and remember all the amazing experiences of your vacation package in the Canadian Rockies before arriving in Calgary for your last night.
Day 15 Depart Calgary
Much too soon you leave the stunning Rockies behind as your Canada vacation package comes to an end.
Day 1 Your Canada Vacation Package Begins - Arrive Calgary
Calgary is a cowboy town that started off a little rough-and-ready and has developed into a vibrant and fun city. Check into your hotel and the remainder of the day is left for you to explore on own.
Day 2 Calgary to Waterton
Waterton Lakes National Park is an unspoiled gem on the Canada - US border and a favorite destination on Canada vacations. The park borders Montana's Glacier National Park, creating an international peace park. Visit the natural wonders of Cameron Falls and Red Rock Canyon; the thriving wilderness provides the perfect backdrop for wildlife viewing.
Days 3 & 4 Waterton - Crypt Lake Trail or Cross the border by boat
You have 2 full days to explore Waterton National Park. We suggest a day hike and boat trip for each of your days here. Allow a full day for the Crypt Lake Trail. The trail is reached by a boat taxi, navigates natural tunnels carved by erosion, traverses a sheer cliff and passes a 600 ft waterfall before reaching the clear turquoise waters of Crypt Lake.
Go for a cruise across the border from Canada to the United States on the historic M.V. "International", in service since 1927. Take your camera along to capture the views of towering cliffs, beautiful waterfalls and the snow covered peaks of the Rocky Mountains. The boat makes stops for photography and wildlife viewing - watch for Bald Eagles, bear, moose, deer, mountain sheep and mountain goats.
Day 5 Waterton to Banff
A stop that shouldn’t be missed on Canada driving vacations is Pincher Creek. The Kootenai Brown Historical Park provides an insight into the area with the display of over 7,000 local historical artifacts. Several log cabins are set in the park surrounding the museum. One of which dates back to 1889, and belonged to Kootenai Brown. This interesting Englishman came to the Waterton Lakes country and stayed to operate a trading post and later became park guardian.
Day 6 Explore Banff
Banff National Park preserves 6641 square kilometers of mountains, forest and lakes. Tour the quaint community of Banff - the gateway to this beautiful wilderness. Highlights include The Hoodoos - curiously shaped rock formations created by centuries of erosion - Surprise Corner, Tunnel Mountain Drive, and the ominous Sulphur Mountain that towers over the town. The Cave & Basin historic site commemorates the 1885 birthplace of Canada’s National Park system.
Day 7 The Wildlife of Banff on Canada Vacations
You have a full day to explore Banff on own. We have included a Banff City Passport which offers you lots of discounts to a number of attractions, restaurants and admissions to museums. This is a great day to enjoy a guided hike in Banff National Park, play a round of golf at the famous Fairmont Banff Springs golf course, take a thrilling white water ride on one of the rivers close by, or relax and take in a spa treatment at the Fairmont Banff Springs Spa & Grotto.
Day 8 Banff to Emerald Lake Lodge via Lake Louise
A small warmly lit lodge sits at the side of a luminous turquoise lake. This kind of serenity can only be found in the Canadian Rockies on your Canada vacation package. Emerald Lake Lodge is stunning no matter what time of year it is, whether the sun is shining on a sea of green or lighting up the snow, you’re sure to feel the romance and relaxation of this spot.
On your drive to Emerald Lake Lodge, stop at Lake Louise, Canada’s most beautiful scenic stop.
Day 9 & 10 Emerald Lake Lodge - a must see destination on Canada vacations
Emerald Lake was discovered in 1882 during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. The original lodge was built in 1902 by the Canadian Pacific Railway. This historical lodge is built from hand-hewn timber and has been renovated, featuring massive stone fireplaces and now offers a secluded escape in a beautiful wilderness location.
Embrace amazing outdoor adventures on your Canada Vacation package! The surrounding mountains and wilderness offer activities for every level of hiking experience, fitness or preference. The lodge can arrange guides, provide maps and directions. Hike to the second highest waterfall in Canada - Takakkaw Falls, the beauty of Lake O'Hara, the Natural Bridge, the Burgess Shale or visit the Spiral Tunnels (the CPR train track inside a mountain).
Day 11 Your Canada Vacation Package Brings You to Jasper Park Lodge
Head on to Jasper along one of the world’s most scenic drives. The Icefields Parkways’ scenic route passes picturesque alpine lakes and alpine vistas. Drive in the shadow of towering mountains on this spectacular highway, revealing a panorama of peaks, glaciers, waterfalls and valleys. Take a break to venture out onto the Athabasca glacier aboard the 6 wheeled Ice Explorer, which is a must see and included in your package.
Arrive in Jasper and settle in to your elegant rustic lodge cabin, set in a tranquil forest location. This kind of relaxation can only be found on Canada vacations!
Day 12 The Wonders of Geology at Maligne Lake
Discover one of the most spectacular areas of Jasper National Park. A short walk leads you to view the Maligne River as it cascades down the canyon in a series of waterfalls. From your guide’s vibrant commentary learn about the “mysteriously” disappearing Medicine Lake before reaching Maligne Lake for a 90-minute interpretative boat cruise bound for Spirit Island. Take your camera to capture this truly picture postcard setting. If you wish the included cruise in your package can be substituted with a 75 minute lakeside walk.
Day 13 Canoe Pyramid Lake
Paddle a canoe on the tranquil waters of Pyramid Lake and perhaps glimpse a bald eagle soaring overhead, a beaver swimming along the shoreline or a moose grazing in the water. Featuring wonderful views of Jasper National Park’s rugged alpine beauty, this delicate and carefully protected ecosystems lies unspoiled for you to enjoy.
Day 14 Back to Calgary
Journey back down the Icefields Parkway and remember all the amazing experiences of your vacation package in the Canadian Rockies before arriving in Calgary for your last night.
Day 15 Depart Calgary
Much too soon you leave the stunning Rockies behind as your Canada vacation package comes to an end.
Options & Upgrades
This trip can be customized for your perfect vacation - call us for friendly local advice
This trip can be customized for your perfect vacation - call us for friendly local advice
- Add on activities such as golf, spa, whitewater rafting, fishing, guided hiking and horseback riding
- Add additional nights
- Stay in more locations
- Travel overnight from Jasper to Vancouver by rail
- Include Vancouver Island to see grizzly bears fishing
Accommodation
Unique lodges and hotels
Unique lodges and hotels
Request A Booking |
Dates + Prices |
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HIGHLIGHTS
Banff tour and gondola ride
Banff City Passport
Rustic mountain lodges
Ice Explorer ride across the Athabasca Glacier
Tour to the beautiful Maligne Valley with lake cruise
Canoe Pyramid Lake
Request A Booking
Reserving Your Trip Is Easy
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Office hours:
M-F, 6am - 6pm Pacific Time.
Sat 10am - 4pm.
A personal trip advisor will help you book your perfect trip.
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Reserve Online using the form at left.
We will contact you as quickly as we can and you will not be under any obligation until after we have confirmed all details with you.
At that time a US$500 per person deposit is payable and you will be subject to our usual terms and conditions.
Reserve your spot without obligation for 48 hours. Our consultants will contact you to confirm details before you pay a deposit.
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2010 Package Start Dates
Departs daily from May to October
Price Notes
• Prices are per person
• Double is two people occupying a room
Includes
• 14 nights accommodation in chic rustic lodges and unique hotels
• 13 days Intermediate Car rental
• unlimited km
• Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
• Airport surcharges on car rental
• Vehicle licensing fee
• Tour of Banff including gondola ride
• Banff City Passport, offering discounts to restaurants and attractions in the area
• Ice Explorer ride across the Athabasca Glacier
• Maligne Valley tour & lake cruise (cruise operates June 1st - Oct 5, 2010)
• Guided canoe trip on Pyramid Lake
• Provincial taxes
Not Included
• Fuel and refueling fees
• Additional drivers fees
• Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
• Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)
• Meals and attractions unless otherwise specified
• Park entrance fees
• Trip Cancellation Insurance
• GST
Departs daily from May to October
| Standard | USD $ | CAD $ | ||
| Double | Single | Double | Single | |
| May 1 - May 21 2010 | 2,336 | 4,374 | 2,336 | 4,374 |
| May 22 - Jul 13 2010 | 3,486 | 6,535 | 3,486 | 6,535 |
| Jul 14 - Sep 23 2010 | 3,632 | 6,827 | 3,632 | 6,827 |
| Sep 24 - Oct 10 2010 | 3,033 | 5,771 | 3,033 | 5,771 |
| Superior | USD $ | CAD $ | ||
| Double | Single | Double | Single | |
| May 1 - May 24 2010 | 3,093 | 5,745 | 3,093 | 5,745 |
| May 22 - Sep 23 2010 | 4,564 | 8,600 | 4,564 | 8,600 |
| Sep 24 - Oct 10 2010 | 3,615 | 6,786 | 3,615 | 6,786 |
• Prices are per person
• Double is two people occupying a room
Includes
• 14 nights accommodation in chic rustic lodges and unique hotels
• 13 days Intermediate Car rental
• unlimited km
• Loss Damage Waiver (LDW)
• Airport surcharges on car rental
• Vehicle licensing fee
• Tour of Banff including gondola ride
• Banff City Passport, offering discounts to restaurants and attractions in the area
• Ice Explorer ride across the Athabasca Glacier
• Maligne Valley tour & lake cruise (cruise operates June 1st - Oct 5, 2010)
• Guided canoe trip on Pyramid Lake
• Provincial taxes
Not Included
• Fuel and refueling fees
• Additional drivers fees
• Personal Accident Insurance (PAI)
• Personal Effects Coverage (PEC)
• Meals and attractions unless otherwise specified
• Park entrance fees
• Trip Cancellation Insurance
• GST
