Most Canadian Rockies adventures miss out on the enchanted forest at Ghost River—but we think it’s the loveliest jewel in the region’s crown. Here, the river’s turquoise waters bubble gently against a backdrop of pristine wilderness, as you enjoy the delicious privacy of the Inn at Ghost River—where tranquility meets exquisite cuisine. In the company of expert local leaders, hike Mount Yamnuska—then discover traditional plant lore during a First Nations medicine walk. Learn about wildlife conservation efforts and visit a local meadery with an on-site apiary. Spend two nights in a charming mountain lodge near the aquamarine splendor of Lake Louise. Along the way, your Canadian leaders uncover the secrets of the breathtaking mountains, unsullied forests, and the people who call them home.
Discover Alberta’s ranchlands in the foothills of the Rockies.
Enjoy a tour and tasting at Fallentimber Meadery.
Join a local leader along Ghost River in an exploration of plant medicine through an Indigenous lens.
Gaze upon the striking blue-green waters of Emerald Lake.
Hike along the shores of the famed Lake Louise and rise early for a sunrise walk at the nearby Moraine Lake.
Positive Impact
Country Walkers is proud to support the Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative with a donation on behalf of each guest on this tour. Stretching some 2,000 miles, the Yellowstone to Yukon region is enormously diverse and inhabited with wildlife, nature, and millions of people. The Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative is the only organization dedicated to securing the ecological health of this entire region. Through their big-picture perspective they focus on local issues that have continental-scale implications. Since 1993 they have worked with over 300 partners including businesses and government and non-profit organizations on dozens of on-the-ground initiatives.
On all Guided Adventures you can count on...
Expert local leaders to introduce you to the best of your destination
Off-the-beaten-path places you’d never find on your own
Delicious multi-course meals—a majority are included
A maximum of 18 fun-loving fellow travelers to share the journey
Gracious accommodations that are a clean, comfortable home away from home
Experts to handle all the details
Air Packages include plane tickets, airport shuttles, and pre- and post-tour accommodations
Terrain Description for Canada: Banff, Yoho & the Canadian Rockies
This tour is one of our Guided Walking Adventures, rated easy to moderate with an average of 2 to 6 miles per day. All walks and destinations in this tour are considered high altitude, ranging from 2,500 to 5,600 feet. The trails feature a combination of hardpack trails and easy terrain, mixed with moderate hills and uneven footpaths. This tour includes both walks on flat, paved or gravel trails and classic hikes through forests with elevation gain and loss. A few of the hikes have ascents and descents of up to 1,700 feet, which are mostly gradual but some portions are steep. On rainy days the footpaths and trails can be wet and muddy.
Miles and Elevation for Canada: Banff, Yoho & the Canadian Rockies
Summary of the activity level of the tour Canada: Banff, Yoho & the Canadian Rockies
, broken down by day and available options.
Tour Day
Choose Your Route Options
Miles per Option
Hours per Option**
Elevation per Option***
Activity Level
1
ShortLong
2-43-5
01:00-02:0001:00-02:30
easyeasy
2
ShortLong
24-6
01:0001:00-02:00
+1,200/-1,200
easymoderate
3
ShortLong
23-4
01:3002:30-03:00
easy-moderateeasy-moderate
4
ShortMediumLong
2-47-1111-13
01:00-02:0004:00-06:0006:00-7:00
+1,000/-1,000+1,700/-1,700
easymoderatemoderate-challenging
5
Walk
3
02:00
easy
6
Walk
3-4
02:00-03:00
+850/-850
easy-moderate
Alternate options may be available. **Route mileage, hours, and elevation gain/loss are all approximate ***Elevation gain/loss indicated if greater than 500 feet
Your vacation is about to begin! Enjoy your flight and arrive ready for an unforgettable trip.
A Country Walkers representative will greet you at the airport to start your first day in Calgary off right. A complimentary car service will whisk you to your centrally located hotel. From here, you are perfectly positioned to explore this charming city at your leisure.
After you enjoy an included breakfast, your leaders will meet you at 9:00 a.m. in the lobby of your Calgary hotel. Please be dressed for walking.
Once you arrive at Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park enjoy a first walk on some of the many trails in the park led by a leader from the park foundation. During your walk you’ll learn about the history, wildlife, and flora of this park. After an abundant picnic prepared by your leaders, drive to Fallentimber Meadery for a tour and tasting. Upon arrival, take a tranquil stroll though the aspen grove, admiring the many beehives and hardworking bees as you go. Afterwards, regroup in the production facility to learn about honey, mead and the importance of bees to Alberta’s economy.
Continue on to your home for the next two nights, a secluded and charming inn nestled along the Ghost River. Tonight, gather for a welcome dinner in the property’s dining room. The chef greets you to present the lovingly prepared dishes for tonight’s meal.
Mount Yamnuska; 2–4 miles, moderate, 1,200-ft. elevation gain/loss. Indigenous Medicine Walk; 2 miles, easy
Satisfied from a hearty breakfast, set out on a hike to Mount Yamnuska. Translating to “wall of stone” in Stoney Nakoda, Mount Yamnuska towers at 7,349 feet above the Alberta prairie. At the request of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation, in 1961 the mountain was officially renamed to Mount John Laurie in honor of John Lee Laurie, a political activist and founder of the Indian Association of Alberta. While hiking towards the summit through birch forests and wildflower meadows, keep your eyes out for mountain goats, which can sometimes be seen scampering on the rocky mountain face. Along the way, stop to enjoy a packed picnic lunch in this picturesque Canadian wilderness.
This afternoon, head back to Ghost River and meet a local guide for an exploration of plant medicine from an Indigenous lens. After, sit back and relax at the hotel, or take a stroll with your guides down to the river for a late afternoon dip before enjoying another dinner at The Crossing. Either way, you’ll be basking in the peace and serenity of the Alberta Foothills.
Grassi Lakes Trail; 2 miles, easy to moderate. Lake Louise; 1-2 miles, easy with steep sections
Savor another full breakfast at The Crossing. Shuttle through Kananaskis Country to your first hike of the day at the scenic Grassi Lakes before continuing towards the quaint village of Canmore.
A former coal mining center, Canmore is now an enchanting mountain town. Lunch on your own at one of the many eateries including Crazyweed Kitchen or the Grizzly Paw Pub. Enjoy free time to visit the Canmore Museum and learn about the cultural heritage of the Canadian Rockies or spend your time perusing for gifts at Rocky Mountain Soap Company’s flagship store, Stonewater’s for home goods or Art Country Canada Rocky Mountain Gallery. Or, stop by Canmore Brewing’s tasting room for a flight of the local artisanal beer.
Depart Canmore and make your way towards Lake Louise via the magnificent Bow Valley Parkway. This stunning wilderness corridor is celebrated for its preservation of Banff’s scenic heritage. This route is popular with local wildlife, and you may see elk, deer, bald eagles, bear, and fox along the drive. Upon arrival to Lake Louise, embark on a short hike with your leaders along the Fairview lookout trail. The glacier-fed lake was named for Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria and is popular with hikers, paddlers and in the winter – cross country skiers.
Check-in into your nearby lodge for the next two nights and unwind before rejoining your group for dinner.
Moraine Lake; 2 – 4 miles, easy. Lake Louise; 5 – 9 miles, moderate with challenging options with up to 1,700- ft. elevation gain/loss
A glittering blue jewel encircled by small mountains in stunning Banff National Park, Moraine Lake sets the standard for pristine majesty. You’ll arise early this morning to experience its serenity before the crowds arrive. Enjoy a walk along trails that wind through cool spruce and subalpine fir forest, and past rocky hillsides stippled with vibrant wildflowers. Perhaps you’ll glimpse hoary marmots, Clark’s nutcrackers, or gray jays as you walk.
Afterwards to your lodge for breakfast and time to rest. In the late morning, meet with your leaders again to set off on a hike along one of Lake Louise’s famous trails. Depending on weather and other factors, your leaders will choose the optimal route for your small group. Perhaps you’ll explore the Plain of Six Glaciers. Or stroll along a former horse path to Lake Agnes, with its stunning views including the aptly named Mirror Lake. Either route includes a stop for a delicious pastry at one of the famous tea houses built by the Canadian Pacific Railway. For lunch, savor a picnic lunch along the trail.
Return on a mostly downhill trail to Lake Louise, admiring the almost Caribbean blue of its waters. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps return to Lake Louise to rent a canoe, visit the Fairmount Lake Louise for afternoon tea, book a horseback ride, or take a scenic gondola or chairlift ride to the summit of Mount Whitehorn. Your hotel also offers complimentary bike rentals and mini golf.
This morning, after a hearty mountain breakfast, travel 30 minutes to Emerald Lake. Named for the stunning blue-green hue of the water, Emerald Lake’s color is caused by a glacial silt reflecting from the sun. Set off on an easy walk tracing along the lakeshore, ending at the lodge’s lakeside restaurant where you settle in for lunch with your group.
After lunch, depart for the town of Banff (approximately 1.5 hours driving time). Upon arrival in Banff, check in and unwind before joining your group for a special farewell dinner at one of the town’s most celebrated restaurants (and views!).
After breakfast, join your guides for a final walk in Banff National Park. Departing from your hotel on foot, hike to Tunnel Mountain to earn a breathtaking view of the town and surrounding wilderness. Your tour ends back at the hotel before lunch.
The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure—perhaps explore the town, rest up in the hotel, or select a local restaurant for lunch and dinner. We provide detailed city information to help you plan your day.
Your leaders meet you at 9:00 a.m. in the lobby of your designated meeting point hotel in Calgary. They’ll be wearing Country Walkers shirts. Please be dressed for walking.
Once you arrive at Glenbow Ranch Provincial Park enjoy a first walk on some of the many trails in the park led by a guide from the park foundation. During your walk you’ll learn about the history, wildlife, and flora of this park. After an abundant picnic prepared by your leaders, drive to Fallentimber Meadery for a tour and tasting. Upon arrival, take a tranquil stroll though the aspen grove, admiring the many beehives and hardworking bees as you go. Afterwards, regroup in the production facility to learn about honey, mead and the importance of bees to Alberta’s economy.
Continue on to your home for the next two nights, a secluded and charming inn nestled along the Ghost River. Tonight, gather for a welcome dinner in the property’s dining room. The chef greets you to present the lovingly prepared dishes for tonight’s meal.
Mount Yamnuska; 2–4 miles, moderate, 1,200-ft. elevation gain/loss. Indigenous Medicine Walk; 2 miles, easy
Satisfied from a hearty breakfast, set out on a hike to Mount Yamnuska. Translating to “wall of stone” in Stoney Nakoda, Mount Yamnuska towers at 7,349 feet above the Alberta prairie. At the request of the Stoney Nakoda First Nation, in 1961 the mountain was officially renamed to Mount John Laurie in honor of John Lee Laurie, a political activist and founder of the Indian Association of Alberta. While hiking towards the summit through birch forests and wildflower meadows, keep your eyes out for mountain goats, which can sometimes be seen scampering on the rocky mountain face. Along the way, stop to enjoy a packed picnic lunch in this picturesque Canadian wilderness.
This afternoon, head back to Ghost River and meet a local guide for an exploration of plant medicine from an Indigenous lens. After, sit back and relax at the hotel, or take a stroll with your guides down to the river for a late afternoon dip before enjoying another dinner at The Crossing. Either way, you’ll be basking in the peace and serenity of the Alberta Foothills.
Grassi Lakes Trail; 2 miles, easy to moderate. Lake Louise; 1-2 miles, easy with steep sections
Savor another full breakfast at The Crossing. Shuttle through Kananaskis Country to your first hike of the day at the scenic Grassi Lakes before continuing towards the quaint village of Canmore.
A former coal mining center, Canmore is now an enchanting mountain town. Lunch on your own at one of the many eateries including Crazyweed Kitchen or the Grizzly Paw Pub. Enjoy free time to visit the Canmore Museum and learn about the cultural heritage of the Canadian Rockies or spend your time perusing for gifts at Rocky Mountain Soap Company’s flagship store, Stonewater’s for home goods or Art Country Canada Rocky Mountain Gallery. Or, stop by Canmore Brewing’s tasting room for a flight of the local artisanal beer.
Depart Canmore and make your way towards Lake Louise via the magnificent Bow Valley Parkway. This stunning wilderness corridor is celebrated for its preservation of Banff’s scenic heritage. This route is popular with local wildlife, and you may see elk, deer, bald eagles, bear, and fox along the drive. Upon arrival to Lake Louise, embark on a short hike with your leaders along the Fairview lookout trail. The glacier-fed lake was named for Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria and is popular with hikers, paddlers and in the winter – cross country skiers.
Check-in into your nearby lodge for the next two nights and unwind before rejoining your group for dinner.
Moraine Lake; 2 – 4 miles, easy. Lake Louise; 5 – 9 miles, moderate with challenging options with up to 1,700- ft. elevation gain/loss
A glittering blue jewel encircled by small mountains in stunning Banff National Park, Moraine Lake sets the standard for pristine majesty. You’ll arise early this morning to experience its serenity before the crowds arrive. Enjoy a walk along trails that wind through cool spruce and subalpine fir forest, and past rocky hillsides stippled with vibrant wildflowers. Perhaps you’ll glimpse hoary marmots, Clark’s nutcrackers, or gray jays as you walk.
Afterwards to your lodge for breakfast and time to rest. In the late morning, meet with your leaders again to set off on a hike along one of Lake Louise’s famous trails. Depending on weather and other factors, your leaders will choose the optimal route for your small group. Perhaps you’ll explore the Plain of Six Glaciers. Or stroll along a former horse path to Lake Agnes, with its stunning views including the aptly named Mirror Lake. Either route includes a stop for a delicious pastry at one of the famous tea houses built by the Canadian Pacific Railway. For lunch, savor a picnic lunch along the trail.
Return on a mostly downhill trail to Lake Louise, admiring the almost Caribbean blue of its waters. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps return to Lake Louise to rent a canoe, visit the Fairmount Lake Louise for afternoon tea, book a horseback ride, or take a scenic gondola or chairlift ride to the summit of Mount Whitehorn. Your hotel also offers complimentary bike rentals and mini golf.
This morning, after a hearty mountain breakfast, travel 30 minutes to Emerald Lake. Named for the stunning blue-green hue of the water, Emerald Lake’s color is caused by a glacial silt reflecting from the sun. Set off on an easy walk tracing along the lakeshore, ending at the lodge’s lakeside restaurant where you settle in for lunch with your group.
After lunch, depart for the town of Banff (approximately 1.5 hours driving time). Upon arrival in Banff, check in and unwind before joining your group for a special farewell dinner at one of the town’s most celebrated restaurants (and views!).
After breakfast, join your leaders for a final walk in Banff National Park. Departing from your hotel on foot, hike to Tunnel Mountain to earn a breathtaking view of the town and surrounding wilderness. Your tour ends back at the hotel before lunch. From here you may make connections for onward travel or continue your explorations independently.
Conveniently located in the heart of downtown—close to Calgary Tower, Heritage Park, Stephen Avenue’s pedestrian mall, and other attractions—the stylish Calgary Marriott Downtown offers all the modern comforts in a contemporary setting. Choose from three dining venues. Enjoy a workout at the fitness center, or take a dip in the indoor pool. Your room features all the amenities you’d expect from Marriott, including air conditioning, cable/satellite TV, an in-room safe, a refrigerator, and a coffeemaker. Free WiFi is available throughout the hotel.
Nestled within 145 rolling acres, set along the banks of the Ghost River, The Crossing is a three-star country inn. You will truly be able to recharge your soul in the beautiful surroundings, outdoor spaces, and river access located in the foothills of the Rockies. Your charming hosts invite you to connect and are happy to provide personalized service. The bedrooms are distinctive, no two rooms are the same, and all are furnished with antiques. Amenities include in-room WiFi and air conditioning. There are no TVs or phones in the rooms. Gather in comfortable common areas, including an outdoor fire pit. There is also a great social room with a pool table, ping pong table, darts, and comfortable couches to help you unwind after an active day. The culinary team constantly seeks fresh ingredients to showcase flavorful dishes prepared in the open kitchen.
It’s easy to unwind and re-connect with nature at the Lake Louise Inn, offering breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies, a convenient location, and exceptional service. Hotel amenities include a recently renovated fitness center and indoor heated pool and whirlpools, three onsite restaurants, laundry facilities, and complimentary bike rentals and mini golf in season. The hotel is not air conditioned but does offer WiFi throughout.
The independently run Banff Aspen Lodge has been family-owned for generations, and, with its prime location on the main street of Banff, it exudes Canadian culture and hospitality. Popular with locals as well as guests, the Whitebark Café offers you daily lunch options, baked goods, and excellent teas and coffee drinks, which you may enjoy on the heated patio terrace or on the go. By evening, the terrace is transformed into a popular outdoor gathering spot, where you may savor a glass of wine and cheese. Other amenities include free wi-fi, a cedar deck with two hot tubs and a fireplace, a sauna and steam room, and a retail mart, where you can pick up last-minute essentials, snacks, and local gifts. Your light and airy room lets you enjoy the view from a balcony or patio and features all the modern comforts you expect, including an LED satellite TV, coffeemaker, mini refrigerator, and air conditioning.
My least favorite of the 10 Country Walker trips. Everyplace was congested. Never a peaceful moment on the trails. Unseasonably hot and unfortunately two of the hotels didn’t have air conditioning. Two of the hotels had no bar. The Inn at Ghost River had no bar and limited food service. No AC. Very remote. Nothing to do as they discouraged you from walking off property on your own. The lodge at Lake Louise was a large property. Again no AC. Very busy. Run down. They allow pets. Paw prints on our doors. Not particularly clean. No bar. You could get a drink at restaurant if you wanted to wait a half hour + for a table. The vehicle CW used was rather cramped. No leg room if you weren’t in front seat of the van. The only thing that kept the trip from being a total let down was the charming guides. Richard and Cameron were friendly and energetic and did their best to help us avoid crowds and find some solitude.
Sabrina, Michigan
Canada: Banff, Yoho & the Canadian Rockies
It was a great trip overall. There were a couple of days where we spent extended time in the vans shuttling to the hikes and lodging but the scenery on the drives made it enjoyable. The guides were a good mix, one with lots of local knowledge and the other with broad outdoor experiences.
Will D, Maryland
Canada: Banff, Yoho & the Canadian Rockies
Expert Local Leaders
Experience your destination like an insider with people who call it home.
Martin Callum
Beginning at a young age, Martin has lived in and traveled to many different countries. After multiple backpacking trips touring around the globe, he decided to change his career path from Engineering to Travel Guide – a true dream job for him. His motivation to explore both around the world and around Canada has never faded and he loves to share the beauty of his home country with others. He is passionate about the outdoors and is eager for wildlife encounters. Martin loves to go above and beyond to create especially memorable experiences.
Richard Berry
Originally from the UK, Richard is passionate about hiking, backpacking and photography. He has led photography and hiking tours across four continents and has lived in the Canadian Rockies for over twenty years. He frequently explores remote, off trail regions and is a member of the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides. Richard enjoys learning new stories about the Canadian Rockies and loves sharing his interest of the local flora, fauna and history with others.
Internet Explorer may no longer be fully compatible with this site.
We highly recommend accessing our website using a different browser (such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, or Microsoft Edge). Microsoft is transitioning away from Internet Explorer and towards their new internet browser platform, Microsoft Edge. Because of this, you may experience limited functionality accessing this site using Internet Explorer.
Country Walkers
VBT Bicycling Vacations
Get eNews
Request a Catalog
800.234.6900
MyAccount Login
Terrain Description for Canada: Banff, Yoho & the Canadian Rockies
