Heart of the Rockies

Experience the best of Canada’s Rocky Mountains on a self-drive journey with stays in Lake Louise, Jasper, and Banff.  Enjoy private tours guided by local experts, observe wildlife in their natural habitat (black bears, elk, and coyotes to name a few!), and experience one-of-a-kind outdoor activities including a glacier helicopter picnic and a Mount Edith Cavell Eco-tour in Jasper.  Expect luxurious accommodation and gourmet cuisine on every leg of your journey, indulging in sustainable sourced wild game and prime cuts of Alberta Beef.

Scroll down for a detailed itinerary

The Itinerary

Day 1

Upon your arrival at Calgary International Airport, you’ll pick up your rental car and enjoy a scenic two-hour drive west along the Trans-Canada Highway towards the Canadian Rockies. Your day will end in beautiful Lake Louise, Canada’s “Diamond in the Wilderness”. Admire the crystal clear water from the shore, or paddle your canoe across picturesque Lake Louise. Accommodations are at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise in a Deluxe Lakeview Room.

Day 2

Nature and history will come alive as you enjoy a half-day guided interpretive hike around the Lake Louise area. Later, use your rental car to explore nearby Emerald Lake and Yoho National Park, with the spectacular Takakkaw Falls, on your own. Accommodations are at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise in a Deluxe Lakeview Room.

Day 3

Today you travel north to the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Winding your way through Canada’s Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, you’ll be in the heart of the awe-inspiring Icefields Parkway. The scenic views of pristine lakes, ancient glaciers, and lush old-growth forests could warrant a pit stop or three! You may wish to stop en-route at the Athabasca Glacier, where a “Snocoach” tour brings you to step out onto ice formed from snow falling as long as 200 years ago. Accommodations are at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in a Lakefront Suite.

Day 4

Today you’ll set out to explore Jasper National Park, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. Traversing alpine meadows on your private guided tour, you’ll discover Mount Edith Cavell from inside your custom photo vehicle. Spot the icebergs lazily floating around Cavell Lake, and sneak a peek at black bears gorging on buffalo berries prior to hibernation. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure, and you may explore the scenic hiking trails of Lac Beauvert, a turquoise gem wrapped around the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Accommodations are at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in a Lakefront Suite.

Day 5

Today is entirely up to you. For thrill-seekers there are endless opportunities for an adrenaline rush. Prefer water to land? Grab a paddle and hold on tight while you go white water rafting down the Athabasca River Canyon Run. Seeking serenity? Indulge in a boat cruise on nearby Maligne Lake, a round of golf, or a guided fishing tour. Accommodations are at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in a Lakefront Suite.

Day 6

Today enjoy a self-guided return trip through the majestic Icefields Parkway, where you’ll travel south to the mountain town of Banff. Along your three and a half hour journey are the Bow Glacier Falls, spraying out over a cliff at the base of “Iceberg Lake”. These falls are the perfect spot to stretch your legs and take in the hidden beauty of the Icefields Parkway. Once you’ve arrived at your destination, the afternoon is yours to explore. Stroll into the town of Banff to visit local art galleries and boutiques, or enjoy a guided horseback riding tour through Banff National Park. Accommodations are at the Fairmont Banff Springs in a Deluxe View Room.

Day 7

Today is yours to explore the best of Banff. Take in a private boat cruise on Lake Minnewanka, home of the fame-seeking Banff Crasher Squirrel! Want some perfectly captured pictures of your luxurious resort? Venture out to Surprise Corner for post-card worthy photos of Canada’s idyllic “Castle in the Rockies”. Step back in time with a covered wagon tour or guided horseback ride through Banff National Park, culminating in a traditional barbecue steak cookout. Explore the unique Hoodoo sandstone formations near Banff, the sandstone spires dotting the landscape of Banff National Park. Accommodations are at the Fairmont Banff Springs in a Deluxe View Room.

Day 8

Soak up the mountain views this morning prior to your departure for Calgary International Airport today. Schedule depending, you may wish to explore the city of Calgary prior to your flight time. Safe travels!

The Route