Seven Day Rocky Mountains Explorer

Day 1: Calgary Sightseeing - Banff

This morning, you will be picked up in Downtown Calgary and enjoy a sightseeing tour of the city to learn about its history, art, and culture. You will see Stampede Park, Stephen Avenue, and the Downtown area. Enjoy a guided tour inside Studio Bell, the Calgary Tower, a photo stop at the Calgary Public Library, and the Peace Bridge. Next, we drive west past Canada Olympic Park and head to the foothills and majestic Canadian Rockies to arrive at Banff National Park. The town of Banff is at the center of Canada's first National Park. Nestled high in the Canadian Rockies, the town is located within Banff National Park. Once "Siding 29" on the Canadian Pacific Railway, the town was intended to be a tourist town from its inception. Upon arrival, check into the hotel and prepare for a group dinner in one of Banff's locally-owned restaurants.

Overnight: Banff

Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Banff sightseeing and exploration

Following breakfast, we will tour Banff, including Tunnel Mountain, the Hoodoos, Bow Falls, Cascade Garden, and the famous Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Followed by a guided tour of the Buffalo Museum and the Cave and Basin. Next, you will experience the Banff Gondola as you sit back, relax, and marvel at the unsurpassed view of Banff, the Bow Valley, and a 360-degree view of six scenic mountain ranges from 2,281m (7,486 ft) above sea level. Lunch will be served at a mountain-top restaurant for a dining experience high above, overlooking Banff and the Canadian Rockies. The town site of Banff is at an elevation of 1,383 meters (4,537 feet), making it the highest town in Canada. Banff is flanked on all sides by towering mountains, including Mount Rundle, Sulphur Mountain, Mount Norquay, and Cascade Mountain. The lively streets of downtown are lined with top-class restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as a vibrant range of art galleries and museums. Enjoy free time this evening to explore on your own.

Overnight: Banff

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Yoho National Park - Lake Louise

After breakfast, we check out of our Banff hotel and drive to Johnston Canyon. Here, a light walk will be enjoyed as much of the canyon begins to thaw; impressive ice formations and partially frozen waterfalls still cling to the cliffs, creating a stunning contrast with early spring greenery and trickling meltwater. By the time you reach the lower and upper falls, the mix of ice, flowing water, and emerging spring vegetation makes for a truly magical, transitional‑season experience. Next, we're off to Yoho National Park. Photo stops include the Spiral Tunnels (for trains), Natural Bridge, and Emerald Lake. Some time will be had to enjoy a light walk and take photos. Next, we arrive at Lake Louise, best known for its turquoise, glacier-fed lake ringed by high peaks. We will see the famous and picturesque lake and the Chateau Lake Louise that overlooks it. There is time for a walk along the lakeside before checking in to our overnight accommodations.

Overnight: Lake Louise

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 4: Columbia Icefields - Athabasca Glacier - Jasper

After breakfast and check out, we arrive at the famous Columbia Icefields, where the waters feed three oceans. We will visit the Interpretive Centre, enjoy a buffet lunch, and then have the experience of a lifetime - a ride on the Ice Explorer vehicle for a close-up look at the Athabasca Glacier. Next, we will walk on the Skywalk, a suspended platform where glass separates you from the rugged wild terrain 918 feet (280m) below. Finally, at the end of this action-packed day, we see the mighty Athabasca Falls before arriving at the charming town of Jasper.

Overnight: Jasper

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 5: Jasper Exploration - Maligne Lake

Originally a tiny railway town, Jasper's small-town charm is very different from the alpine resort glamour of Banff. Surrounded by towering mountains, clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, Jasper is located within Jasper National Park, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. We start the day with a scenic drive that ultimately takes us to Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. As we continue deeper into the valley, we will drive through subalpine forests and view the expanding limestone ranges rising out of Medicine Lake. This mysterious disappearing lake changes seasonally as the flow rates of melt waters fill and empty this basin. A stop is made to photograph this natural wonder. From Medicine Lake, we continue through the forest, which is a prime habitat for moose and bears. Sightings are common but not guaranteed as we strive to see these animals in their natural habitat. The scenic drive finally brings us to beautiful Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Enjoy some time to walk around and take pictures of the scenery. We return to the town and to the Jasper Planetarium. Offering an unforgettable stargazing experience under some of the darkest skies in Canada. Nestled within the Jasper National Park, a designated Dark Sky Preserve, the planetarium offers immersive indoor presentations. Marvel at distant galaxies, constellations, and planets through powerful telescopes while knowledgeable guides share the stories, science, and legends behind the night sky. Even in early spring, when the evenings are crisp and clear, the experience of seeing the Milky Way stretch overhead, unspoiled by city lights, is a perfect blend of education and the serene wilderness that surrounds Jasper. Dinner will be enjoyed as a group in the Town of Jasper this evening.

Overnight: Jasper

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 6: To Edmonton

Departing from Jasper in the morning, travel east along the scenic Yellowhead Highway, taking in the transition from dramatic mountain landscapes to rolling foothills. Arrive in the early afternoon and check into your hotel before heading to West Edmonton Mall, where you can explore shops, attractions, or unwind. In the evening, make your way into downtown Edmonton for a group dinner, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city's core before settling in for the night.

Overnight: Edmonton

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Edmonton - Farewell

This morning, depart Edmonton early and head south toward Calgary along Highway 2. En route, stop in Red Deer for a quick coffee break or to stretch your legs before continuing. With a direct drive, arrive in Calgary late morning and proceed to Calgary International Airport in time for a 1:00 PM drop-off, concluding your journey with a smooth, efficient transfer.

Meals: Breakfast