Make the most of the Canadian winter on this 6-day active getaway to beautiful Banff. Winter in the Rockies is a spectacular time as the forests glisten with falling snow, waterfalls freeze in stunning ice formations and the crowds lessen for a quieter experience.
Each day will bring a new outdoor adventure designed to showcase the best of Banff and the surrounding mountain landscape. Search for iconic wildlife, snowmobile to the top of the mountains, snowshoe through old-growth forests and see frozen columns of ice along ancient canyon walls. No experience required – just bring your sense of adventure and you’ll leave with incredible memories.
Day 1: Calgary to Banff
Your journey into the Rockies begins in the foothills as you arrive in Calgary, Alberta’s largest city. Leave the winter driving to the pros and just enjoy the amazing scenery as you’re whisked from Calgary up into the spectacular mountains of Banff National Park.
You have the evening free to take in the sights and enjoy the hospitality the town is known to offer.
From scenic hikes to interesting museums, Banff has many attractions to keep you busy during your leisure time. Walking through the snow-covered trees with the towering mountains as your backdrop is nothing short of magical. As a bonus, Banff tends to be quieter in the winter months so you just might find you have some quiet moments to take in the splendour without the distraction of other visitors.
Accommodation: Banff Inn (or similar)
Day 2: Explore Banff’s History & Wildlife
Set out to visit Banff’s top landmarks and historic places, as well as spot some of the park’s iconic animals on a guided history and wildlife tour. Hear how 11,000 years of human history of the Bow Valley changed when three railway workers rediscovered the Cave & Basin, now a National Historic Site. See and learn about wildlife behaviour, habitat, and their winter survival adaptations.
Accommodation: Banff Inn (or similar)
Day 3: Snowshoe Paint Pots Trail in Kootenay
Enjoy a morning of leisure in Banff. In the afternoon, set out for a fun introduction to snowshoeing. You’ll be awed at the scenery as you make your way from Banff to Kootenay National Park.
Here you will set out with snowshoes on an easy trail: walk along a bridge that crosses the frozen Vermillion River and follow a snowy forested path to the Paint Pots, a cultural treasure. The surrounding mountain ranges make for a surreal backdrop as you enjoy this classic Canadian winter activity.
Accommodation: Banff Inn (or similar)
Day 4: Free Day in Banff
Enjoy a leisurely day in the charming town of Banff. Delight in the breathtaking Banff Gondola or indulge in the rejuvenating Sulphur mountain hot-springs. Wander through the array of shops, cozy cafes, and delectable restaurants lining the enchanting Banff Avenue.
Thos that wish can take part in a full day snowmobile tour. If so you’re in for a full day of fun and excitement today as you head out on a guided snowmobile adventure to the top of the mountains. Ride through old-growth forests, visit the remnants of an early 1900s Silver Mining town and enjoy the views as you gradually climb to 8000 feet of elevation.
Spot wildlife, take photos of a spectacular frozen waterfall and then enjoy a lunch at the top of the mountain while relaxing in a cozy cabin. You’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the thrill of snowmobiling at Paradise Basin, an open bowl full of powdery snow. Be sure to pause from time to time to take in the view of mountaintops – you’ll feel like you’re at the top of the world.
Accommodation: Banff Inn (or similar)
Day 5: Ice Walk at Johnston Canyon
Keep an eye out for wolves, moose, elk and coyotes as you head along the Bow Valley Parkway’s wildlife corridor to your next adventure – the Johnston Canyon. Here you will get to strap on ice-cleats over your winter boots and head on an ice walk inside the canyon walls. Inside you’ll find a world of natural ice sculptures formed as the thundering falls freeze solid. You can safely explore this natural wonder along steel catwalks built into the canyon walls. Hear stories about the area’s colourful past and see the tiny ancient seabed fossils that dot the canyon walls.
Accommodation: Banff Inn (or similar)
Day 6: Return to Calgary
Enjoy one final morning in Banff before you say good-bye to the Canadian Rockies as you head out of the national park towards Calgary.
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