Explore the best of the Canadian Rockies on this guided hiking tour for the whole family
This private, guided hiking tour is specifically geared towards families who want to reconnect with nature and make lifelong memories to treasure together. The tour takes in the best of the spectacular Canadian Rockies with manageable distances that do not require super-human endurance!
You will discover the outstanding natural beauty of Banff, Jasper, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks, as well as travelling along the stunning Icefields Parkway. Winding through the ancient glaciers and alpine lakes of the most scenic drive in the world, you will visit the legendary natural treasures of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Stewart Canyon.
This once-in-a-lifetime family adventure will be tailored to your individual needs, giving you the opportunity to either camp out in the Canadian wilderness or stay at lovely hotels in the mountain towns of Banff and Golden. Whether you prefer the crackling campfire or a cozy fireplace, this magical family tour will bring you deep into the pristine scenery of the Canadian Rockies whilst respecting the physical limits of the whole family.
Highlights of the Family Adventure in the Canadian Rockies Tour
Prices
- No Booking or Credit Card Fees
- Save Money
- Happiness Guaranteed
Family Adventure in Rocky Mountains Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Transfer to Canmore or Banff
Most guests get picked up at Calgary, either at the international airport or a downtown hotel. However, it is also possible to start the tour from Edmonton depending on your preference. You will enjoy a scenic 1.5 hour drive to either Banff or Canmore, which will be your base for this family adventure. Soak up the stunning views of the Canadian Rockies as you leave the prairies behind you and enter the spectacular landscape of the Rocky Mountains. Once you arrive at your destination, you will have plenty of time to explore your lovely local surroundings.
Overnight Location: Hotel or Camp in Banff
Distance: N/A
Meals (Camping): Dinner
Meals (Hotel): None
Day 2 Explore Lake Minnewanka and Banff
You will leap headfirst into Canada’s outstanding natural beauty as you hike along the stunning shores of Lake Minnewaska, fringed by dizzying mountain peaks. You will transfer to the lake by van, but keep your eyes open for deer, elk, and wild Mountain Sheep along the scenic drive! Depending on the fitness and enthusiasm levels of all the family members, you have the option to go past the lake on a path to Stewart Canyon, home to the thundering waters of Cascade River.
In the afternoon, you will enjoy a stroll through the vibrant streets of Banff, one of the prettiest towns in Canada. You can either shop for souvenirs or enjoy a leisurely walk up Tunnel Mountain or along the shores of Bow River to the Iconic Banff Springs Hotel.
Overnight Location: Hotel or Camp in Banff
Distance: 1-5 hours
Meals (Camping): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meals (Hotel): Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3 Kootenay National Park
Today you will explore the stunning trails of Kootenay, a gorgeous National Park which is often overlooked by tourists visiting Canada. Enjoy a peaceful hike to a viewpoint of the Stanley Glacier, with spectacular views of Kootenay National Park in all directions. Your expert guide will teach you all about the local plants and animals as you hike through a forest which is in the process of re-growing after a forest fire.
For the best views of the Stanley Glacier your guide will be happy to take you up to a mountain crest, but the hike can be easily adapted for those with younger children who prefer a gentler route. After your wonderful day exploring the mountains you will continue to Lake Louise, where you can enjoy a peaceful evening view of the glacial waters now that the other tourists have all gone back to their hotels.
Overnight Location: Hotel or Camp in Banff or Lake Louise
Distance: 2-4 hours hiking
Meals (Camping): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meals (Hotel): Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 Moraine Lake and Lake Louise
Prepare yourself for an incredible day at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Due to crowds, you will either visit Moraine Lake very early or very late in the day. Coming at these times not only offers you the peace and quiet to enjoy the lake without the clamour of the tour buses, but the gentle light of the beginning and end of the day make the glowing glacial waters all the more beautiful. You can climb the rockpile for an iconic view of Moraine Lake and take a very pretty trail along the water side.
In the afternoon, you will take a beautiful walk along the shores of Lake Louise or choose to walk to the pretty Lake Agnes Tea House to treat the children (and grown ups!) to some delicious local delicacies. Whatever you choose, today will be special.
Overnight Location: Hotel or Camp in Banff or Lake Louise
Distance: N/A
Meals (Camping): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meals (Hotel): Lunch
Day 5 Yoho National Park & the Icefields Parkway
Get ready to immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Jasper. Families with smaller children will start the day with a morning visit to Yoho National Park and Emerald Lake. You will take a lovely short walk along the shores of the glacial lake, named after the intensity of its breathtaking blue waters.
After exploring Emerald Lake, you will head out on the Icefields Parkway, the most photographed driving route in the entire world! Gaze out the window at the endless glaciers, craggy peaks and turquoise lakes before stopping at the iconic shores of Bow and Peyto Lake. You can take a short, family friendly stroll at both locations to stretch your legs and soak up the magical views.
You will end your day at Saskatchewan River Crossing, where the Howse River meets the North Saskatchewan River.
Overnight Location: Hotel or Camp in Saskatchewan Crossing
Distance: N/A
Meals (Camping): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meals (Hotel): Lunch
Day 6 Athabasca Glacier and Jasper
Today you will continue your drive on the epic Icefields Parkway to arrive in the mountain town of Jasper. You will stop at a range of beautiful locations that combine family-friendly walks and incredible views for you to enjoy. This includes a gorgeous stroll to the toe of the Athabasca Glacier, part of the expansive Columbia Icefields.
Later, you’ll stop at the lovely waterfall of Athabasca Falls before taking the old highway up to Edith. Here you can explore the mesmerizing Cavell Meadows and Angel Glacier. Keep your eyes peeled for chunks of ice floating in the lake below the glacier. After a wonderful day in the fresh mountain air, you will enjoy exploring the charming streets in Jasper town.
Overnight Location: Hotel or Camp in Jasper
Distance: N/A
Meals (Camping): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meals (Hotel): Lunch
Day 7 Maligne Lake or Miette Hot Springs
Today you have a choice of two options: a trip to Maligne Lake or a soak in Miette Hot Springs.
Maligne Lake is another beautiful lake with some great hiking and the option to take a boat tour. The hikes range from easy to intermediate and can be adapted depending on the age of the participants.
Those prepared for a challenge can head to Miette Hot Springs to explore the incredible Sulphur Skyline hike. This hike is quite challenging and is best suited to families with teenagers. The views from the top are fantastic, but the real highlight is a soak in the Miette Hot Springs after the walk. In the evening you will visit the pretty Pyramid Lake above the town of Jasper.
Overnight Location: Hotel or Camp in Jasper
Distance: N/A
Meals (Camping): Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Meals (Hotel): Breakfast, Lunch
Day 8 Drop-off at the Airport
After a wonderful week of forging new memories in the breathtaking National Parks of Western Canada, it’s time to say goodbye to your lovely guide and head on home. You can be dropped off at the airport in either Calgary or Edmonton, depending on your choice. Guests love the final scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway.
You are recommended to have an evening flight or else book your flight for the following day, as it is a 6-hour drive to Calgary airport.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: N/A
Meals (Camping): Breakfast, Lunch
Meals (Hotel): Breakfast, Lunch
Family Adventure in Rocky Mountains Tour Price and Dates
This guided family tour in Rocky Mountains is always run as a custom tour for your family only and the price depends on the number of people in your group and whether you choose to stay in hotels or camps during your trip. The prices might also change based on the availability.
Private Guided Family Adventure in Rocky Mountains Tour in Hotels
- Guided Groups of 4: from $3,850 USD per person
Private Guided Family Adventure in Rocky Mountains Tour in Camps
- Guided Groups of 4: from $2,595 USD per person
Accommodation on Family Adventure in Rocky Mountains Tour
This tour is based in either hotels or campsites, depending on your preference.
For those staying in campsites, you will enjoy the age-old magic of sitting round a crackling campfire under the open sky. Hot showers are available nearly every day and high-quality camping gear ensure a safe and comfortable stay in the great outdoors.
For those who want to prioritise comfort and prefer the facilities of a hotel, it is possible to choose a hotel-based Rocky Mountains Tour. You can expect the facilities of a 2-3-star accommodation, with Wi-Fi and onsite bars and restaurants.
In some cases, the planned campsites or hotels may need to be substituted for other, comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travelers
You can pay a supplement of $250 USD to have a private tent while traveling with your group. If your group is staying in the hotels, single supplement would cost you $1,025 USD.
Accommodation on Family Adventure in Rocky Mountains Tour in Hotels:
Fox Hotel & Suites in Banff
The Fox Hotel is a local gem, right in the heart of the buzzing town of Banff and home to a delightful thermal pool.
Deer Lodge Hotel in Lake Louise ★★★
Originally built as a tea house, this rustic lodge has been operating as a hotel since 1925. The view from the rooftop hot tub is not to be missed!
The Crossing Resort in Saskatchewan River Crossing ★★
Serving customers for 70 years, the Crossing Resort is a laid-back, seasonal resort providing a comfortable night in the wilderness. Rooms come with Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and mini-fridges, as well as tea and coffee makers; some have mountain views and whirlpools. The patio at the pub is a great place to enjoy the sunset after an epic day riding the Icefields Parkway.
Mount Robson Inn in Jasper
The Mount Robson Inn has lovely outdoor hot tubs for guests to enjoy, as well as cozy fireplaces and a brilliant, central location.
Accommodation on Family Adventure in Rocky Mountains Tour in Camps:
Campgrounds in the Rockies
Reconnect with nature as you make camp beneath the open sky. High quality gear and beautiful overnight spots will ensure a fantastic camping experience that you will treasure for a lifetime!
What’s included in the Family Adventure in Rocky Mountains Tour?
Meals
The meal board depends on whether you choose to stay in hotels or campsites during your tour. Camping tour provides the full board throughout the tour (7 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners), while the tour with the hotel stays provides lunch everyday and breakfast in hotels where possible (4 breakfasts and 7 lunches). Please note, that the number of the breakfasts provided might vary depending on accommodations picked.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights along the tour are included.
Transportation during the Tour
Transport for you and your luggage is included throughout the tour.
Also Included
- Park passes and entry fees
- Expert guide
- Use of our quality camping gear (for camping option)
- Hiking activities
- Hot Springs
- Gondola Pass in Jasper
Not included
- Optional personal transportation around town during free time
- Getting to and from Calgary
- Insurance
- Personal expenses
- Anything not stated as ‘included’
- GST (Goods and Services Tax) – 5%
Optional Extras
- Transfer to Edmonton on departure day
- Pick up from Edmonton on the arrival day
- Additional night in Banff before the tour
- Additional night in Jasper after the tour
- Services of an additional guide: Pricing depends on number of days and location
Frequently Asked Questions about Family Adventure in the Canadian Rockies Tour
Fresh Adventures is an outdoor tour company that navigates explorations through the rugged, stunning terrain spanning western Canada. With an emphasis on customer care, Fresh Adventures promises to depart on an expedition, with a highly skilled guide, no matter how many people have signed up, while also ensuring tour participants have top-notch equipment.
Learn MoreIs this tour for me?
Ask a Question