Visit Banff National Park to marvel at the beauty and grandeur of the granite peaks. It is hard to miss this natural wonder. Enjoy a ride to the Sulphur Mountain Summit on [Banff Gondola]. Next, you can see [Banff Hoodoos], "Devil's Rock." Following [Bow Falls], It is almost like you are enchanted with time when the river roars in summer. After taking a peek at the [Surprise Corner], the spectacular viewpoint for the famous [Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel], we will visit and make a lunch stop at this Iconic Castle hotel. Finally, hiking at [Johnston Canyon] This popular hiking spot takes you to stunning waterfalls. The trail will take you through open meadows and glacial lakes. (If the attraction has been closed due to maintenance or any other force majeure, we will visit Lake Minnewanka or Two Jack Lake as an alternate attraction.)

【Itinerary】

Calgary - Banff Gondola (Additional fees) (90 min) - Hoodoos (15 min) - Bow Falls (15 min) - Surprise Corner (15 min) - Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel & Lunch stop [French Brasserie] (Optional with additional fees) (75 min) - Johnston Canyon (60 min)

  

Banff National Park

Banff National Park is Canada's first national park, and is a destination on innumerous people’s bucket lists from all around the world. The most famous attractions in the park are Lake Louise and Lake Moraine. Banff National Park is also home to countless iconic natural landmarks from majestic mountain ranges to gorgeous turquoise lakes, to beautiful waterfalls, and canyons.

Sulphur Mountain

Sulphur Mountain is a mountain located in Banff, Alberta, Canada. At the peak of the mountain you will be amazed by the incredible 360 degree view on the skywalk, of six majestic mountain ranges, beautiful rivers and valleys, the Bow Valley as well as the Town of Banff. Surrounded by the massive peaks that reach the sky, you feel as if you are at the heart of the planet.

Hoodoos

Hoodoos take millions of years to form and stand 5 to 7 meters tall. Each hoodoo is a sandstone pillar resting on a thick base of shale that is capped by a large stone. Hoodoos are very fragile and can erode completely if their capstone is dislodged. The protected Hoodoos site is a guaranteed spot to see Hoodoos but smaller versions of these sandstone giants can be found all over the Badlands. The Hoodoos make a great stop on the way to the Atlas Coal Mine National Historic Site in East Coulee.

Bow Falls 

Located 2.7 km from the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is Bow Falls. The astounding scene and the powerful sound of aqua green water crashing over limestone is truly a remarkable experience. The bow falls is a shallow but wide waterfall on the bow river. Several Hollywood films of the 1950s were filmed here! Famous Hollywood star Marilyn Monroe once was swept over the bow falls as they filmed for “River of No Return.”

Surprise Corner 

The Surprise corner is named after its spectacular views of the majestic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel that is cozily nestled at the heart of a dense forest with the beautiful Sulphur Mountain as a backdrop. This beautiful scene is elevated with Bow River cascading down into the Bow Falls as a foreground. The magnificent scene at Surprise Corner will make you feel as if you have travelled into a fairytale story.

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, also known as the "Castle of the Rockies" has a history of more than one hundred years. This iconic gem is nestled among the majestic Rocky Mountains with the clear Bow River at its feet. Whether you are soaking in the hot springs outdoors or indoors, you can admire the distant Rocky Mountains peacefully. The snow on the peaks, the blue sky, and the cool air are enough to make you feel like one with nature.

Johnston Canyon 

As Banff National Park's most popular hiking destination, you won't want to miss Johnston Canyon. Johnston Canyon is carved into the limestone bedrock from thousands of years of water erosion. On this hike, you will be immersed into a beautiful scene of overhanging canyon walls, waterfalls, and lush forest. Every moment at Johnston Canyon is a memory as you explore depths and different perspectives of the beautiful gorge.

 

 

Today, we will drive along [Icefields Parkway], National Geographic magazine has voted it as one of the most beautiful scenic highways on the planet. This breathtaking drive blends jaw-dropping views with pristine wilderness. Pass by the snow-capped mountain peaks of [Crowfoot Glacier]. Following the visit to [Bow Lake], the lake is a bright turquoise color which is due to the glacial runoff from Bow Glacier. Shortly after, we will come to [Peyto Lake], a must-see lake in Banff National Park for its unique maple shape or vibrant blue glacier-fed water. (Note: If the Peyto Lake is under maintenance or other force majeure, we will go to Waterfowl Lake and Big Hill as an alternative attraction.)

Next, we will arrive at [Columbia Icefield] and experience the stunning beauty of [Athabasca Glacier], the largest and oldest icefield in North America. For an unforgettable trip into this region, take a ride of [Ice Explorer - Snowcoach], and a glass-bottomed [Skywalk] for thrill-seekers. Finally, we will head to the [Athabasca Falls] the most powerful waterfalls in Jasper National Park.

【Itinerary】

Banff - Crowfoot Glacier (Pass by) - Bow Lake (20 min) - Peyto Lake (30 min) - Lunch Stop (Optional Western Lunch Box with additional fees)(60 min) - Columbia Icefield [Snowcoach & Skywalk] (Additional fees) (150 min) - Athabasca Falls (30 min)

 

Jasper National Park

Occupying over 11 000 square kilometres, Jasper National Park is the largest national park inthe Canadian Rockies and is recognized as part of UNESCO's Canadian Rocky Mountain ParksWorld Heritage Site. Jasper encompasses beautiful valleys, Columbia Icefield glaciers, lushforests, meadows and majestic mountains. Athabasca Falls is one of the most incredible andpowerful waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies, and is a must see while you are in Jasper. MaligneCanyon is also a remarkable destination, It is thedeepest canyon in Jasper National Park withsome areas reaching 50 m deep. At Maligne Canyon you will be stunned by the magnificentview of a cascading waterfall, uniquely structured canyon walls, with mountain peaks in thedistance. Explore the ancient glaciers on the Columbia Icefield via theIce Explorer. You will beable to walk on the massive glacier and have a taste of fresh glacier water. Jasper NationalPark is a tranquil but exciting place with beautiful landscapes, wildlife, and activities for you andyour family to explore. I assure you that you will soon fall in love with the Rocky Mountains aftervisiting Jasper National Park.

Crowfoot Glacier

Attached to the Northeast side of the Crowfoot Mountain and overlooking the Bow Lake lies the Crowfoot Glacier. This huge mass of ice was named a century ago because its appearance resembled that of a three-toed crowfoot. Be sure to take lots of photos because the next time you visit Crowfoot Glacier, it might not look the same anymore!

Bow Lake

Bow Lake is a stop you will not regret taking while you are travelling across Icefield Parkway. When the lake thaws in the summer, it becomes a vivid blue colour from the glacier melt of the Crowfoot Glacier. Speaking of the Crowfoot Glacier, the Bow Lake is also the perfect place to view the Crowfoot Glacier, Wapta Icefield, bow glacier, crowfoot mountain and Mount Thompson. It really seems like the ultimate all in one package!

Icefields Parkway

Joining the hamlet of Lake Louise in Banff with the Town of Jasper in Jasper National Park is one of the most scenic highways in the world --- Icefields Parkway. Along the 230 km mountain road, every corner on the Icefields Parkway reveals another one of nature's splendor, from the ancient glaciers and cascading waterfalls to the vivid colours of lakes and lush forests . Many stops along the Icefields Parkway deserve a stop.

Peyto Lake

Located along the Icefields Parkway, approximately 40km north of Lake Louise is the vibrant glacier-fed lake, Peyto Lake. The lake is nestled in majestic mountain ranges which lie on each of its sides. This jaw dropping view is the best reward for an intense scrambling hike. The scenery on the viewpoint looks as if it is a carefully painted piece of art. Peyto Lake's beauty is comparable with the famous Moraine Lake without as many crowds.

Columbia Icefield

It is the world's largest ice remains outside the Arctic Circle. The glacier lies partially in Jasper, extends between summits of Mount Columbia, and reaches the paved highway of Banff. That covers approximately 230 square km. Due to the high density of ice in the glacier, sunlight cannot be refracted. This results in a crystal-like blue light radiating out of the surface, presenting a magnificent view.

Athabasca Falls

Located 30 km south of Jasper town, Athabasca Falls, is one of the most incredible and powerful waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies. Although its height is not astonishing, the Athabasca falls is known for its impressive volume and force of water. This splendid waterfall is in the foreground of a stunning backdrop of lush forests, and beautiful rocky mountain ranges.

 

Check out from Jasper hotel, pass by [Medicine Lake], this mysterious lake is full of Indian legends and mystery. Shortly after, we will arrive at the world-famous [Maligne Lake] (Seasonal/Alternative attraction: Pyramid Lake, Patricia Lake.) and take the 8 million Reader Digest subscribers voted the [Maligne Lake Cruise] as the "Best Boat Cruise in Canada" and access to [Spirit Island]. Next, we will have a lunch stop at [Maligne Lake Historical Chalet] (Optional lunch with additional charges, if less than 15pax for lunch booking, it may be replaced with a plate meal or self-choice lunch with soup, sandwich & dessert), then visit [Maligne Canyon] is a great place to go if you want an adrenaline rush and adventure. The canyon contains some of the most impressive geological formations in the world. On the way back, you will relax in peace at the [Saskatchewan River Crossing] This spot is located just south of Icefield Avenue and offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, as well as peace & quiet.

【Itinerary】

Jasper National Park - Medicine Lake (pass by) - Maligne Lake [Maligne Lake Cruise] (Additional fees) (90 min) - Lunch Stop (Optional Maligne Lake Historical Chalet lunch] (Additional Fees) (60min) - Maligne Canyon (30min) - The Crossing (15 min) - Calgary

Medicine Lake

Medicine Lake, also known as "the lake that disappears" is located 20 km southeast of the town of Jasper. Medicine lake is a 7 km long narrow lake that is formed by the Maligne River. Interesting enough, the lake loses water as it flows. Why is that you may ask? When the water is on its way to merge with the Athabasca river, it reaches the medicine lake area, and pools up to form the Lake over the largest inaccessible limestone cave system.

Maligne Lake

22km long, the majestic Maligne Lake is the second-largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. While its azure-blue waters can be cold for swimming, there are plenty of other activities to do in the Maligne Valley including hiking Bald and Opal Hills, biking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking and boat tours to Spirit Island. If you are feeling exceptionally adventurous, the 44km Skyline Trail begins at Maligne Lake and finishes near the town of Jasper. Make sure to bring your camera, it's one of the most photogenic places in Jasper National Park!

 

Maligne Canyon

Get ready to explore Maligne Canyon, located 1.8 km past the Jasper exit. Maligne Canyon is the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park. You will not regret exploring this remarkable natural landmark by crossing six bridges built across several different points of the canyon. Every bridge gives you an all new perspective of the canyon, and are all photo taking opportunities you do not want to miss.

The Crossing

The Saskatchewan River Crossing is an interesting place to stop for a short rest as you are driving near the junction of Banff National Park and the Icefields Parkway. This place was actually named “The Crossing” because back in the 19th century, travelers and fur traders would use this spot to cross the North Saskatchewan River on their way to the beautiful province of British Columbia.

 

Dropoff Points in Banff: 

* Elk + Avenue Hotel

Dropoff Points in  Calgary: 

* Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza, 1316 33rd St NE, Calgary AB T2A 6B6.

* Delta Hotels by Marriott Calgary Downtown

* Calgary International Airport, pease ensure that your flight departs after 09:30pm. Please understand that depending on the situation, your arrival time in Calgary may be adjusted.