Canadian Rockies Hiking Tour
Epic Hikes & Wilderness Lodges from Banff to Yoho
Trek through Kananaskis Country, Banff, Kootenay and Yoho National Parks, where glacier-fed lakes, alpine meadows and wildlife-rich valleys offer a quieter side of the Canadian Rockies.
We rate our trips based on a range of activity levels from 1-5.
See this trip's Activity Options & Terrain for more details.
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Snapshots from the Trip
Trip at a Glance
Highlights
- Hike to the emerald waters of Elbow Lake, tucked into a glacial basin beneath towering Mount Rae, Mount Arethusa and Elpoca Mountain
- Walk among wildflower meadows and larch forests on a scenic trail through Burstall Pass with views of Robertson Glacier
- Stay at alpine retreats where moose roam the meadows and mountain views stretch beyond your window
- Explore the turquoise shores of Emerald Lake and the alpine splendor of Paradise Valley and Emerald Basin
- Look for mountain goats, pikas and marmots among the diverse mountain wildlife—perhaps come face-to-face with one of them!
Sample itinerary. Trip details may vary by departure.
Start Calgary Airport & Travel Details
- Journey into the spectacular wilderness of Kananaskis Country
- Hike to Elbow Lake, a glacial basin gem with emerald waters and stunning views
- Watch for marmots and pikas as you explore the rocky shoreline and surrounding meadows
- Walk through spruce forest and along glacial-fed streams en route to Burstall Pass
- Hike through wide alpine meadows with vistas of Robertson Glacier, Spray Lakes Valley and the Continental Divide
- Watch for moose in the meadows from the deck of our Rocky Mountain lodge.
Nights 1-2
Deluxe Hotel
A remote alpine lodge in the meadows of Spray Valley, with crackling woodstoves, floor-to-ceiling mountain views and cozy rooms surrounded by unspoiled mountain terrain.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Hike through lodgepole pine and Engelmann spruce to Chester Lake, a perfect spot to pause and soak in the quiet beauty of the Front Ranges
- Hike into Paradise Valley, crossing footbridges and walking through dense forest and meadows with wildflowers
- Reach the shores of Lake Annette, cradled beneath Sir Donald Macdonald Glacier and Mount Temple
- Brave a refreshing dip in the lake or continue deeper into the valley for sweeping mountain views.
Nights 3-4
Casual Hotel
A secluded historic lodge between Banff and Lake Louise with hand-hewn log cabins, wood-burning fireplaces and charming mountain character.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
- Ascend well-worn paths through evergreen forests to sensational views of Takakkaw Falls and the Yoho Valley
- Standing in awe before Canada’s second-highest waterfall, it all makes sense—Takakkaw is Cree for “it is magnificent”
- Walk along the shore of aptly named Emerald Lake
- Trek to Emerald Basin, ascending through cedar and spruce forest and passing avalanche paths and alpine streams
- Unwind lakeside and soak up mountain views from the comfort of the lodge.
Night 5
Casual Hotel
A secluded turn-of-the-century lodge, built of timber and featuring simple cabins nestled in the woods above a spectacular tree-rimmed glacial lake.
Hotels may vary on select departures. Click View Dates and choose a departure to see any variations.
End Banff Airport & Travel Details
This trip has an activity level range of 3-5
For our longer options, expect long, steady descents of up to 3,000 feet, along with large rocks and sections where you’ll navigate over boulders. These more challenging hikes can include loose gravel or scree and stretches with significant exposure—not necessarily steep drop-offs, but wide-open areas that highlight the dramatic elevation and stunning scenery.
All breakfasts, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
All accommodations on your Backroads trip
All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
Expertise and services of Backroads Trip Leaders
Lightweight carbon hiking poles
Backroads On Trip App with route maps, elevation profiles, daily snapshots and more
Additional local guides and experts, plus equipment for included activities as detailed in your itinerary
Exclusive activities, tours and cultural experiences, as detailed in your itinerary
All luggage transfers and porterage during your trip
Snacks and beverages between meals
Private cocktail and wine receptions on the first and last nights of your trip
Choice of Backroads t-shirt or hat, plus water bottle and luggage tag
Detailed Travel Planner with destination tips and pre-trip information
