Sunday, July 13, 2025

Canadian Rockies: Locations to Go to, Hikes, & Scenic Drives


Towering peaks, glacier-fed lakes, moody pine forests, and crisp alpine air: the Canadian Rockies pack a visible punch. However past the various picture-perfect angles, this dramatic mountain vary is a gripping playground of wilderness and wildlife. Whether or not you are into mountaineering the Canadian Rockies in summer season or chasing the Northern Lights in winter, there are limitless alternatives for forging deep into the wild. Add in some canoeing, craft beer, and stargazing, and you have got a tailored map for a multifaceted mountain expertise.

Now you may be inclined to seize this checklist and head out by yourself. It is Canada! How arduous may or not it’s to discover? Nicely, the nation is huge and our small group excursions add that magic contact of maple syrup to make the journey extra significant. With us, you are not checking off sights and getting out simply lengthy sufficient to snap a selfie. You are swapping tales round campfires, connecting with native tradition, and seeing these inspiring locations by the lens of sustainability and neighborhood. So lace up your boots or settle into an iconic crimson canoe with a number of the finest issues to do within the Canadian Rockies.

Absorb Icefields Parkway views

If you happen to’re in search of probably the most scenic drives on this planet, the Icefields Parkway is definitely a prime contender. Spanning 232km (144 mi) between Jasper and Lake Louise, this legendary route delivers dramatic panoramas at each flip: glacial valleys, turquoise lakes, and the occasional roadside bear sighting. Be sure you have your digital camera inside arm’s attain always.

Highlights embrace Peyto Lake (formed like a wolf’s head and one in all our planet’s most jaw-dropping landscapes), the surreal Weeping Wall, and the toe of the Athabasca Glacier. Preserve your eyes peeled for bighorn sheep and mountain goats — an indicator of Canadian Rockies wildlife. The drive itself is spectacular, however the encounters alongside the way in which make this really unforgettable.

A female traveller balances on a rock as she photographs pictures of the alpine views off Icefields Parkway

Take probably the most scenic route on: Canadian Rockies Encompassed


Paddle out into Lake Louise

Acknowledged world wide, you have certainly seen pictures of the enduring dreamy glacial blue framed by towering peaks and the stately Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Whether or not you are visiting within the peak of summer season or below a blanket of winter snow, Lake Louise is endlessly enchanting.

In hotter months, canoeing Canada-style is the factor to do. Paddle out into the aquamarine expanse and really feel utterly immersed in nature, with solely the sound of your paddle breaking the floor. If you happen to desire to remain on dry land, hike as much as the Lake Agnes Tea Home of the Plain of Six Glaciers for panoramic views and a rewarding cup of tea. In winter, the lake transforms right into a magical skating rink surrounded by ice sculptures and snow-dusted mountains.

Two travellers cruise across the blue of Lake Louise in an iconic red canoe

Fall in love with Lake Louise on: Better of Northern Rockies & the Pacific Northwest


Discover Banff Nationwide Park — Canada’s first

On the coronary heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff Nationwide Park was the primary of its sort within the nation and stays a prime favorite. Each bend opens up a special angle of rugged backcountry, bustling city life, and alternative for journey. And, due to its many lakes, Banff occurs to be one of many bluest locations on earth. The distinction of full of life Banff city and the huge wilderness simply outdoors its limits is a part of what makes it so particular.

Mountain climbing the Canadian Rockies would not get significantly better than the paths round Banff. Attempt Tunnel Mountain for a fast leg-stretcher, or tackle the tougher Sulphur Mountain for swoon-worthy views. Sunshine Meadows, Johnston Canyon, and the Icefields Parkway trailheads are all inside straightforward attain. Afterward, unwind within the Banff Higher Scorching Springs or pattern some native craft beer in Canada’s highest city.

On a G Adventures tour, anticipate your information to share insider information about Indigenous historical past, geology, and wildlife, so as to add deeper layers of that means to every hike or viewpoint. Guides usually share private anecdotes or conventional tales, enriching the entire expertise with a neighborhood perspective.

A bunch of hikers led by a G Adventures CEO walk through the deep green forests of Banff National Park

Have the very best time in Banff on: Canadian Rockies: Nationwide Parks Westbound


Stroll throughout the mighty Columbia Icefield

Few locations make you’re feeling smaller than the Columbia Icefield. Straddling the Continental Divide, this large expanse of historic ice is a humbling reminder of the earth’s glacial historical past. It covers an space of roughly 230 sq. km (143 sq mi) and feeds into a number of main river methods.

Choosing a guided glacier stroll offers you the possibility to strap on crampons and discover crevasses and ice caves. If you happen to’re craving much more adrenaline, step onto the close by Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored remark deck that juts out over a 280-metre drop. It is not for the faint of coronary heart, however the views are unbeatable, particularly at golden hour.

Marvel on the Athabasca Glacier on: Vancouver Island & Northern Rockies


Bundle up for winter aurora chasing

Winter within the Canadian Rockies is all of the extra mesmerizing once you’re pulling on a heat parka every evening for the possibility to see nature’s most magical show. Whether or not you’re out for a guided stroll, skating on an froze lake, or having fun with a sleigh journey in locations like Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper, every clear evening brings the opportunity of a Northern Lights encounter. Whenever you’re that far north in winter and surrounded by darkish wild sky, your possibilities enhance considerably so it’s value being a focus of your journey.

To kick it up a notch, we advise spending time in Smoky Lake studying from the Indigenous Métis neighborhood after which settling in for a tea ceremony at evening. After the legends and folklore are informed, optimistically you would look as much as see the Northern Lights in all their shimmering glory. And it’ll imply much more with the background of how the skies and constellations served their individuals as guiding lights for survival, planting, looking, and when to work the land.

The ethereal green aurora glow of the Northern Lights creates a silhouette of the Canadian Rockies landscape

Scan the wintry alpine skies on: Canadian Rockies: Northern Lights Winter Explorer


Catch the dawn at Moraine Lake

It is arduous to consider a lake like Moraine exists outdoors of a screensaver, however belief us, it is actual. Set within the Valley of the Ten Peaks, this glacier-fed stunner shifts hues all through the day, from deep sapphire to brilliant teal. The lake is commonly shrouded in mist within the morning, including a dreamy, ethereal high quality to the already fairytale scene.

Early mornings are finest to beat the crowds and catch the delicate glow of dawn lighting up the peaks. Hike the Rockville Path for the enduring view, or go additional afield into Larch Valley if you happen to’re chasing golden fall foliage. The larches flip sensible shades of yellow-orange in September, making this top-of-the-line locations for autumn hikes.


Spot bears in Jasper Nationwide Park

Extra laid-back than Banff however no much less beautiful, Jasper Nationwide Park is beloved for its huge wilderness and hushed sense of solitude. It is also a Darkish Sky Protect, which makes stargazing in Jasper a bucket checklist expertise. You may see the Milky Approach stretch throughout the sky, framed by silhouetted mountain peaks.

Hop on a Maligne Lake cruise, discover the magical Maligne Canyon, or hike the Edith Cavell Meadows path to identify glaciers clinging to cliffs. Spirit Island on Maligne Lake is likely one of the most photographed spots in Canada. When you see it, you may perceive why.

Wildlife lovers may also be of their ingredient. Think about elk wandering by city, or catching a glimpse of bears, moose, and even wolves if you happen to’re fortunate. On a G Adventures tour, your Chief Expertise Officer (CEO) helps interpret animal habits and clarify native conservation efforts, deepening your understanding of the area. Studying about coexistence and preservation makes every wildlife sighting really feel much more particular.

A mom with two cubs walks quickly by on the roadside with the Jasper National Park forest and mountains behind

Step out into Canadian backcountry on: Canadian Rockies: Nationwide Parks Eastbound


Go to Calgary — gateway to the Rockies

The gateway metropolis to the Rockies, Calgary blends metropolis tradition with rugged frontier spirit. Most G Adventures Canadian Rockies excursions begin or finish right here, and it is value spending a day exploring earlier than hitting the street or heading dwelling.

Try the Calgary Tower for a panoramic intro to town, or stroll by the East Village for craft breweries, dwell music, and public artwork. The Glenbow Museum presents deep dives into Western Canadian historical past and Indigenous tradition, whereas Prince’s Island Park presents peaceable riverside paths steps from downtown.

If you happen to’re right here in July, the Calgary Stampede brings the cowboy power full drive with rodeos, live shows, and a full-blown carnival environment. It is a spectacle of Western tradition that is value experiencing at the very least as soon as.

A couple of travellers take a selfie of fall-coloured Calgary's cityscape view

Stampede your solution to Calgary on: Canadian Rockies & Pacific Northwest Journey


Strap on snowshoes in Sunshine Meadows

Winter actually places a hush upon the land so there’s no higher time to strive strolling on contemporary fallen snow in probably the most Canadian manner doable. (Let’s be sincere, most Canadians haven’t executed this both however relaxation assured it’s very enjoyable.)

Be part of a neighborhood information, shoot upward in a gondola, after which set out throughout the Continental Divide in search of iconic wildlife with big nets strapped to your toes. With nothing however powdery wilderness in entrance of you, you’ll get pleasure from sweeping views of Banff Nationwide Park and Mount Assiniboine, the very best peak within the area. The crisp, clear winter air will do wonders on your sense of well-being and the laughs of navigating the snowshoes are yours endlessly.

A female travellers laughs as she navigates the powder in snowshoes in Sunshine Meadows, Alberta

Make snowy tracks on: Canadian Rockies Winter Journey


Take a selfie at Athabasca Falls

Do not let its modest peak idiot you. Athabasca Falls is likely one of the strongest and photogenic waterfalls within the Canadian Rockies. Situated simply off the Icefields Parkway, it is a frequent cease on G Adventures excursions, and important for street trippers trying to break up the drive.

The churning water has carved out dramatic limestone canyons over centuries. Discover the viewing platforms and brief trails to see the falls from each angle. The roar of the water, the mist in your face, and the rainbow that generally seems within the spray all add as much as an immersive sensory expertise. Tip: Go early within the morning when the mist catches the sunshine good and the tour buses have not arrived.

A rush of water courses over the side of Athabasca Falls with mountain forest backdrops

Wind up getting energetic in Whistler

Technically outdoors the primary Canadian Rockies vary however usually included in prolonged itineraries, Whistler is a should for thrill-seekers. Residence to North America’s largest ski resort, it is an adrenaline-fueled base for snowboarding the Canadian Rockies, mountain biking, zip-lining, and snowshoeing. The slopes listed here are world-renowned, and even newbies will discover terrain to like.

However Whistler is not all velocity and slopes. The walkable village itself is straight out of a storybook, and filled with nice eateries and retailers. Seize a domestically roasted espresso and stroll by the Indigenous artwork galleries, or hop on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for panoramic mountain views. Whistler additionally hosts quite a few festivals year-round, including music, movie, and meals into the combo.

A G Adventures CEO stands on a large felled timber log with Whistler's mountains as his backdrop

Attempt a tipple or two at Kelowna breweries

Whereas not within the Rockies correct, Kelowna is commonly a detour or finale on a Canadian Rockies street journey, particularly for these with a style for good wine or chilly craft beer. This sunny Okanagan Valley metropolis is thought for its vineyards, orchards, and laid-back lake life. It is the right place to drink all of it in after your alpine journey.

Take a wine tour alongside the lakeshore, pattern farm-to-table delicacies, or lease a kayak and discover Okanagan Lake. The waterfront boardwalk is right for sundown strolls, whereas Knox Mountain Park presents nice mountaineering trails with metropolis views. If you happen to’re extra into hops than grapes, the craft beer Canada scene is flourishing right here, with new microbreweries popping up often. Attempt a flight at BNA Brewing or Kettle River Brewing Co., for starters.

G Adventures travellers love ending a high-energy Rockies tour with a number of days of rest and absorbing Kelowna’s sunshine. Relive your alpine recollections of a glass of native pinot or pale ale, swapping tales with buddies earlier than heading dwelling.

Get artful in Kelowna on: Better of Northern Rockies & the Pacific Northwest

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