A Rockies Winter Wonderland
INDEPENDENT TOURING
EDMONTON | JASPER | LAKE LOUISE | BANFF | CALGARY
Explore some of Alberta's most popular destinations in this tour, begin in the capital of the region Edmonton, before travelling onward to the spectacular mountain village of Jasper. Discover picturesque Lake Louise and the natural beauty of Banff.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Trek the stunning Maligne Canyon Ice Walk
- Travel along the incredible Icefields parkway
- Explore Lake Louise at your own pace
- Take part in an exciting Banff Snowshoeing to Paint Pots tour
Your Itinerary
Day 1 : UK - Edmonton
Upon arrival at the Edmonton International Airport, transfer independently to your hotel, the balance of the day is at leisure.
Day 2 : Edmonton day at leisure
Experience one of Canada’s most popular urban regions and the Capital City of Alberta. A four season destination, Edmonton has a variety of attractions and natural areas to explore year round. If you feel the need for shopping, experience West Edmonton Mall. This Edmonton icon houses 800 stores and services, 110 eating establishments, nine themed attractions, spas, a dinner theatre, fantastic nightclubs and a full-scale casino – all under one roof.
Day 3 : Edmonton - Jasper
Leaving Edmonton this afternoon and traveling east, you will notice the dramatic change in landscape as you leave the open prairie and head onto the Rockies to the mountain village of Jasper.
Day 4 : Jasper
Today is free to explore Jasper.
Day 5 : Jasper (Maligne Canyon Ice Walk)
Experience the wonders of the Maligne Canyon from the ground up! The canyon has withstood 10,000 years of erosion and has created a 50m gorge. Certified guides will lead groups of no more than 12 along the frozen canyon floor and its ice-clad limestone walls. Super soles and winter boots will keep guests warm and secure as they explore this wonderland of rock and ice.
Please note: Ice walk tour operates mid-December - mid-April
Day 6 : Jasper - Lake Louise (evening sleigh ride)
Travel southward along the Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise. Massive snow covered mountains, frozen waterfalls and broad reaching valleys are the highlight of this spectacular drive through glacier country. Included this evening is a wonderful 40 minute sleigh ride that takes place beside the lake.
Please note: Sleigh ride operates mid-December - mid-April
Day 7 : Lake Louise
Today is free for you to enjoy the many winter activities surrounding Lake Louise.
Day 8 : Lake Louise - Banff
Depart Lake Louise mid-morning for a short drive to Banff via the scenic Bow Valley, arriving midday. This afternoon is free to enjoy the sights of Banff.
Day 9 : Banff Afternoon Snowshoeing to Paint Pots Tour
In the afternoon, snowshoe on an easy trail winding through a forest of pine trees to the Paint Pots, a cultural treasure within the National Park. Along the way you will hear stories of Banff’s indigenous people, explorers and fur traders who lived in and travelled through the Rockies. After this crisp winter walk, enjoy a uniquely Canadian treat: hot maple taffy poured into snow to make a sweet frozen dessert.
Day 10-11 : Banff - Calgary - UK
This morning is free to explore Banff, before your scheduled coach to Calgary departs midday. Following the Trans-Canada Highway, depart the Rocky Mountains to the Great Central Plains that roll to the east for 2000 kilometres and extend as far south as Mexico. This is ‘cattle ranching country’ and Canada’s breadbasket. Arrive Calgary airport and board your flight onwards to the UK.