At a Glance
Be spell bounded by the renowned scenic splendour of the Canadian Rockies on this inspiring 6-day hiking adventure. A paradise for adventure seekers; uncover the backcountry treasures of Banff, Yoho and Kootenay National Parks. Admire nature in all its glory as you submerge into a wonderland of breathtaking glaciers, mighty rivers, picturesque emerald lakes, ice fields and serene mountain peaks.
Your hiking journey begins in Banff, where you will shuttle west to the amazing Kootenay National Park. Relish the beautiful sights of its unique wildlife and landscape as you walk to the Stanley Glacier Basin. Enjoy the delightful views of the spectacular Stanley Glacier, waterfalls and its surroundings. Three hiking options await you the next day: out to the shores of the largest backcountry lake in the park, the Sherbrooke Lake, ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 5 nights accommodation in luxury hotels throughout the trip, on a twin share basis
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre trip information
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio on average
- All luggage, shuttle and hotel transfers
- Brief Orientation trip in Banff on Day 1
- Shuttle transfer to Hotel on Days 1 & 4
- All meals as specified on itinerary
- Hiking and sightseeing as stated in the itinerary
- Shuttle transfer to Banff on Day 6
- Park and other entry fees
- All meals as specified on itinerary
- Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders
- Snacks and beverages between meals
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options
- All gratuities at hotels and restaurant
Itinerary
Level 2, Approx. 8km (5.2 miles), Elevation gain: 335m (1100 ft) Upon arrival in Banff, you will meet your tour leaders at 8 am. Please arrive dressed in your hiking attire, bring your luggage and all other hiking gear you may want for today’s journey (your luggage will be transferred to our first night’s accommodation). After a short trip orientation in Banff, we will ride a shuttle west to hike in Kootenay National Park, known for its abundance of wildlife and unique contrasting views from its icy mountains rivers to its steamy hot springs. At top of the rise at Vermillion Pass, you’ll see the remnants of the Tokumm-Verendrye fire which burned nearly 13 percent of the park in 2003. We will hike to the Stanley Glacier Basin, absorb the sights of the spectacular Stanley Glacier with its beautiful cascading waterfalls as we enjoy a delicious lunch. After eating, we will make our way back down from the basin shuttle to the luxury Cathedral Mountain Lodge in Yoho National Park. |
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You’ll stay at a cosy handcrafted log cabin nestled in Yoho National Park. Enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains on the balcony or relax in a properly prepared bath in your soaker tub. Later in the evening, gather in the main lodge for a wine reception featuring Okanagan vintages and artisan cheeses from British Columbia before indulging in a delicious meal at the lodge’s award-winning Riverside Dining room. |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: There are three options available for today’s hike: out to the glistening shores of the largest backcountry lake in Yoho National Park, the Sherbrooke Lake, to the oldest fire lookout in Canada’s national parks, the Paget Lookout, or for those who are up to the challenge, a combination of both options. At a crossroads, choose whether to take the easier route to milky-blue Sherbrooke Lake, or go the extra mile to climb to the Paget Lookout. The Paget Peak trail ends at the Old Fire Lookout with spectacular views of glaciers, soaring peaks, and Kicking Horse Valley. You can visit the historic Field town, BC, take an adventure to Natural Bridge and photograph some of its views such as its unique natural rock formations. You can also choose to spend the whole of today relaxing, indulging yourself, and enjoying the lodge. Tonight, enjoy another dinner affair in the lodge’s main dining room. |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: The word the First Nations people used to express their profound love and appreciation for the valley’s beauty and wonder was “Yoho” which is where it got its unique name from. Sitting about 5,000 feet above sea level, you’ll feel exactly what they did. We plan to hike across the Yoho Pass bringing us very close to your next lodge. Starting at the base of Takakkaw Falls, you’ll hike along a chain of switchbacks that take you from the valley floor through a luxuriant, moss-draped forest of fir, spruce, and cedar trees. The higher you climb, the more magnificent the view, such as sights of the faraway Daly Glaciers and the massive Takakkaw “Magnificent” Falls. A longer and more challenging hike to follow the legendary Iceland Route, while optional, is available for those who would want to undertake it. Afterward, the whole group will meet at Yoho Lake, nestled deep within the pass. For those who dare to and want even more adrenaline rush. You can polar plunge into the chilly waters of the lake before descending to the pristine Emerald Lake Lodge where we will rejuvenate tonight. |
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Built of hand-hewn timber, Emerald Lake Lodge offers the ideal combination of luxury and nature. Relax at the cozy fireplace with freshly-brewed coffee or enjoy a soothing time in the huge outdoor tub with a beautiful view before gathering for a delicious dinner at the lodge. |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Today you hike to one of the most beautiful alpine meadows in Banff National Park as we shuttle to Helen Lake trailhead to explore its beauty. In peak season, the plateau is filled with wildflowers and cute marmots will often come up close when they can easily be photographed. Begin to ascend through a subalpine forest along the west-facing Bow Valley. The trail leads to Engelmann spruce and alpine air, allowing for splendid views across to Crowfoot Glacier and Bow Lake. Once the path enters the amphitheater harboring Helen Lake, you’ll soon reach the shore where we’ll have a delicious lunch break. You can hike further to the Dolomite Ridge to get a stunning panoramic view of Katherine Lake and the seas of peaks that make up the Waputik Mountains. |
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This afternoon shuttle to one of Travel + Leisure World’s Best Hotels, the Post Hotel & Spa, known for its outstanding service and mouth-watering cuisines. Once you’re all settled in your cozy and comfortable room, indulge yourself in its indoor saltwater pool or perhaps choose to relax at the Temple Mountain Spa in the hotel. In the evening, be wined and dined in the hotel’s exquisite dining room. |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Begin today’s adventure at the scenic blue Moraine Lake. You’ll ascend along the Rockpile Trail to get beautiful overhead views of Moraine Lake and the surrounding Wenkchemna Peaks, 10 glaciated mountains named from Stoney Nakoda. This spectacular vista is one of the most photographed locations in Canada and was once featured on Canada’s 20 dollar bill. Our journey continues along a switchback trail to the meadowland of Larch Valley, named for the trees whose needles turn into gold during the fall, covering the entire valley with vibrant color. Once you climb higher, enter an alpine environment with stunning views of Wenkchemna Peaks at every turn. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the banks of Minnestimma Lake before continuing to the top of the Sentinel Pass for an amazing view of the Valley of Ten Peaks and Paradise Valley. |
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In the afternoon, unwind back at the hotel. Enjoy quiet time on the balcony with beautiful views of nature or cosy up by the fireplace with a glass of red. You may also be able to enjoy the tour of the Post’s award-winning wine cellar. Come evening, enjoy the hotel’s fantastic cuisines and toast to our exploits in the Canadian Rockies. |
Level 3, Approx. 11km (6.8 miles), Elevation gain: 365m (1200 ft) This morning, take a quick morning shuttle to a World Heritage Site, Lake Louise, located at 5,700 feet. The reflection of Mount Victoria in its clear glistening waters is sure to wow you! Enjoy the views along the shoreline before ascending through the beautiful landscape sculpted by the six glaciers in the area. Be on the lookout for some of the unique wildlife that call this place home such as mountain goats, pikas, and marmots. The hike will bring us to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse, snuggled between pine trees with views of Mount Victoria and the Victoria Glacier. After lunch at the teahouse, hike down at your own pace to the lake to rest and relax. Later in the afternoon, cap off this amazing adventure with a smooth ride back to Banff. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
Dates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure and finish point is Banff, Canada
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Banff
Summer and early fall weather can be warm and sunny; however, mountain weather is very unpredictable and can change drastically with little warning. Cold rain and snow are possible at all times of the year, and temperatures can dip to freezing as weather conditions change.
Average temperatures in Canadian Rockies vary drastically. Considering humidity, temperatures feel cold all year with a low chance of precipitation most of the year. The area is less temperate than some. Warmest time to visit Canadian Rockies, the hottest months are July, June, and then September. The warmest time of year is generally early to mid July where highs are regularly around 52.5°F (11.4°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 29.9°F (-1.2°C) at night.
The routes on this trip are rated Levels 2-4.
Level 1, 2-5 hours, 3-8km (2-5 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 244m (800 ft)
Level 2, 2-4 hours, 6-11km (4-7 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 396m (1300 ft)
Level 3, 3-5 hours, 8-14km (5-9 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 610m (2000 ft)
Level 4, 4-6 hours, 10-18km(6-11 miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 914m (3000 ft)
Level 5, 5-7 hours, 11-21+ km (7-13+ miles), Maximum Elevation Gain 1219m (4000+ ft)
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.