At a Glance
Access and explore some of the best-kept secrets of the Canadian Rockies on this 6-day adventure, from the amazingly colourful wildflowers to the glacier-fed lakes and sparkling waters to the amazing number of resident creatures in the Kananaskis Country and Banff National Park.
You begin your journey in Calgary, then make your way to the stunning Kananaskis Country, and right above the Lusk Creek Valley, where you’ll get staggering view of the Fisher Mountain Range. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere beneath the cliffs of Mt.Sarrail, and relish the sights of its beautiful wildlife creatures as we hike to the spectacular Rawson Lake. Take in nature's beauty as you hike in Spray Valley Provincial Park. Climb through the radiant area in Kootenay National Park aestheticised with wildflowers and waterfalls. Absorb the view of ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 5 nights accommodation in luxury hotels throughout the trip, on a twin share basis
- Professional guiding: two support vans, 6:1 guest to leader ratio on average
- Comprehensive travel planner with detailed pre trip information
- Brief orientation in Calgary on Day 1
- All luggage, hotel and shuttle transfers
- Shuttle transfer to hotels on Days 1 & 4
- All meals as stated on itinerary
- Brief orientation in Calgary on Day 1
- Hiking and sightseeing as stated in the itinerary
- Shuttle transfer to Banff on Day 6
- Park and other entry fees
- All luggage, hotel and shuttle transfers
- 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 restaurants
Itinerary
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Level 1, Approx. 8km(5 miles), Elevation gain: 213m (700 ft) Upon arrival in Calgary, you will meet your tour leaders at 9:30 am. It is advised you be there promptly, dressed in hiking clothes. Also, bring other gears you may need for the day, and your luggage (this will be transported to our first night's accommodations). Following the meeting in Calgary, we will shuttle to the heart of the Kananaskis Country characterised by breathtaking provincial parks, swift rivers, diverse wildlife, and towering peaks. Hike through the Lusk Creek Trail boasting sweeping views of Mount Baldy and Mount Marie (also known as Yamnuska meaning "wall of stone" in the Nakoda language, and is 7,350ft). |
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You’ll stay at a quaint mountain lodge, your home for the next two nights. Rejuvenate to a relaxing massage at the Nordic Spa, perfect to de-stress from the day’s adventure. In the evening, we will gather for a welcome reception before enjoying a flavourful dinner. |
Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Kananaskis Village 
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
TWO HIKING OPTIONS: Our morning hike begins along the shore of Upper Kananaskis Lake, where you will be opportune to take in the views of the Serrail Creek Waterfall before climbing through the subalpine forest. At the end of the climb, we will arrive at Rawson Lake, an embodiment of beauty in its emerald-green colour. This will be followed by us wandering the eastern Lakeshore where we can choose a spot to enjoy a bite, keeping an eye out for pikas among the surrounding boulders. If you would like to indulge in more activities in the afternoon, you could walk the short loop to Troll Falls; there is also a well-maintained trail that could take you to the falls and the Troll Head rock. Or, you could prefer the option of a relaxing afternoon at the lodge. |
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Rejuvenate to a swim at the heated indoor pool before meeting up for a lovely dinner at the hotel in the night. |
Pomeroy Kananaskis Mountain Lodge, Kananaskis VillageBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
TWO HIKING OPTIONS: After breakfast, we head to the Kananaskis Trail which intersects Galatea Creek in Spray Valley Provincial Park. This trail was severely damaged from the flood in 2013 but has been restored. It is surrounded by spruce, wildflowers, small waterfalls, and mountains, also remember to keep an eye out for porcupines and ptarmigans as you follow the path. The trail brings you to an elevated path where Lilian Lake is located, at the base of Mount Galatea. Adore the spectacular view of the deep-blue Galatea Lakes, the surrounding peaks, the valley and Lillian Lake below as we hike farther along the trail. |
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We will be spending the night at the luxurious Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel which houses the world-renowned Willow Stream Spa. In the evening, delight your tastebuds to a dining at one of the many exotic restaurants at the castle-like hotel. |
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, BanffBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
On this day, we shuttle west through the Bow Valley and continue over the Great Divide which serves as a border between Alberta and British Columbia. Our hike brings us to the Kootenay National Park characterised by its changing climate, diverse topography, and abundant wildlife. There is still evidence of the devastating Tokumm-Verendrye fire which burned almost 13 percent of the park almost a decade ago; this will be obvious to us atop the rise at the Vermillion Pass. The trail goes up steadily through the remnants of the burn before levelling off in a natural amphitheater. 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. Make your way down from the basin before a shuttle to your home for the next two nights at the Moraine Lake Lodge. |
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Come evening, gather and indulge in a delicious meal at the hotel. End the night with a lovely stroll up the Rockpile trail for a stunning evening view of the Moraine Lake and some stargazing. |
Moraine Lake Lodge, Lake Louise Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
THREE HIKING OPTIONS: Ascending the Rockpile Trail, we begin our hike at the iconic and unimaginably blue Moraine Lake. The Moraine Lake is surrounded by the Wenkchemna Peaks; 10 glaciated mountains named from the Stoney Nakoda word meaning "ten". This magnificent vista was once featured on Canada's 20-dollar bill and is one of the most photographed locations in all of Canada. From here, we will carry on a switchback trail to the meadowland of Larch Valley named for the trees whose needles turn gold in the fall, covering the valley in vibrant colour. Ascending, you will enter an alpine environment with views of Wenkchemna Peaks at every turn. Enjoy a picturesque lunch on the banks of Minnestimma Lake before continuing to the top of Sentinel Pass for a breathtaking view of the Valley of Ten Peaks and Paradise Valley at the top of the Sentinel Towers which are popular among rock climbers. |
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Rest in your cozy cabin and perhaps enjoy a soothing bath in your soaking tub. In the evening, gather in the hotel's exquisite dining room to enjoy a final festive meal of Rocky Mountain cuisine. |
Moraine Lake Lodge, Lake LouiseBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Level 1, Approx. 11km (6.8 miles), Elevation gain: 365m (1200 ft) In the morning, we will take a quick shuttle to Lake Louise, a World Heritage site located at 5,700ft. You will understand the reason for the height when you see the reflection of Mount Victoria in its waters. Walk along the shoreline before ascending through the beautiful landscape decorated by the six glaciers in the area. Keep an eye for mountain goats, pikas, and hoary marmots that make their homes in the boulder fields, but be sure to take in the amazing view of Lake Louise behind you. A 1,200ft climb brings you to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse, nestled among pine trees with views of Mount Victoria and Mount Glacier. After lunch at the teahouse, hike down at your own pace. Later in the afternoon, we will shuttle to Banff and end this amazing journey. NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. |
NoneBreakfast, LunchDates & Prices
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
More Info
- The departure point is Calgary, Canada
- The finish point is Banff, Canada
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Calgary
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.
