- Embark on a heli-hike experience in the wilderness around Landslide Lake
- Drive the breath-taking Icefields Parkway
- Walk through alpine-covered valleys
- Marvel at the beauty of Saskatchewan Glacier and Moraine Lake
- Spend two nights in the Lake Louise area and three nights in Jasper National Park
Canadian Rockies: Heli-Hike & Wilderness
12 Days
Excluding Flights
13 Days
from
Walking & Trekking
Activity Level
Moderate & Challenging
See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you.
Comfort Level
Simple
Itinerary
Calgary Calgary London London
Fly to Calgary, transfer to hotel
Those on the group flight will be met at the airport and transferred to our hotel in Calgary. Sandwiched between the Rocky Mountains and the winding Bow River, Calgary is at the epicentre of Alberta’s oil industry. The high-rise buildings and urban parklands create a balanced modern city.
There will be an opportunity to meet your guide and fellow travellers this evening.
Accommodation: Ramada Downtown Calgary (or similar)
Start Calgary
Welcome to Calgary, gateway to the Canadian Rockies, where you can take time before the tour begins to explore. It was historically famous for its Wild West roots but in recent years has become a dynamic, exciting city. Join your tour guide and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting at 6pm in the hotel lobby.
Accommodation: Ramada Downtown Calgary (or similar)
Lake Louise; Lake Agnes Trail
We go west into the heart of the Rockies, travelling to Lake Louise, our base for the next three nights. Upon arrival, we take a warm-up trek on the Lake Agnes Trail (maximum altitude: 6,955ft/2,120m). Hike through old-growth forest before reaching spectacular views of Lake Louise from above and then continue along the trail until you reach Lake Agnes and a rustic teahouse, providing much-needed refreshment before the descent back to our campsite near Lake Louise.
Accommodation: Lake Louise Campground (or similar)
Moraine Lake; climb to Sentinel Pass
Take a short transfer to picturesque Moraine Lake, neighbour to Lake Louise and situated in the scenic Valley of the Ten Peaks. This is one of the most photogenic lakes in the Canadian Rockies, surrounded by ancient pine forests and snow-capped mountains. We take the Sentinel Pass trail (maximum altitude: 8,566ft/2,611m), hiking along the Larch Valley before climbing to Sentinel Pass itself for magnificent views over Banff National Park backcountry. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife including elk, porcupines and bears, which are often sighted on this route. From here, you can either hike back or start your descent along the Paradise Valley to end this loop trail. This is one of the premier hiking trails in Banff, so we are likely to see a few fellow hikers on our way.
Accommodation: Lake Louise Campground (or similar)
Icefields Parkway to Jasper National Park; hike the Parker Ridge Trail
Our journey continues north along one of the most breath-taking roads in the world, the Icefields Parkway, surrounded by jagged mountains and twinkling glaciers. Along the way, there is the opportunity for a guided walk on Athabasca Glacier and we stop for a hike on the Parker Ridge trail (maximum altitude: 7,448ft/2,270m) with the chance to see the Saskatchewan Glacier. The trail climbs quickly until it gets above the treeline. It does not actually reach the summit of Parker Ridge, but comes within about 195ft (60m) of it and the views are simply incredible.
Our destination for today is Jasper National Park; keep your eyes peeled for wildlife such as black bears and the abundant Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep. Tonight, we set up camp underneath the watchful gaze of Jasper’s rugged peaks.
Optional activities:
- Guided glacier walk: 112 dollars (US$83) or 67 dollars (US$49) for under 17s
Accommodation: Whistlers Campground (or similar)
Jasper National Park; Cavell Meadows
Jasper is much quieter than some other national parks, making it easier to leave the crowds. We take the Cavell Meadows trail (maximum altitude: 7,507ft/2,288m) to the foot of Angel Glacier for a true wilderness feel. After climbing up, we reach the alpine terrain with a great chance to watch caribous. This is an excellent way to discover more about the ever-changing environment of this stunning national park.
Accommodation: Whistlers Campground (or similar)
Jasper National Park; Sulphur Skyline Trail
We hike the Sulphur Skyline Trail (maximum altitude: 6,562ft/2,000m), which has some of the most breath-taking panoramas in Jasper. The 3mi (5km) trek to the mountain peak overlooks a phenomenally rugged section of the Canadian Rockies. A great way to finish the day is with a soak in Miette Hot Springs (don’t forget your swimwear).
Optional activities:
- Miette Hot Springs: 16.50 dollars (US$12)
- SkyTram cable car: 60 dollars (US$44)
- Mountain biking: 30 dollars (US$22) per hour
Accommodation: Whistlers Campground (or similar)
Helicopter flight to Landslide Lake
We take a short helicopter flight to the Landslide Lake area, where we are placed far from other hikers for a wilderness trek like no other! We set up camp here for the next three nights in an area devoid of other travellers and the distractions of everyday modern life. After setting up camp, our guide takes us on a hike in the Landslide Lake area.
Please note: You are not staying in a campsite, this is the Canadian wilderness, and your guide will set up tents where it’s best; there is no predetermined camping spot. You will not have access to showers or modern toilets during your three-night stay, and each day your guide will hoist food into the trees and away from bears.
We ask that you take no more cargo than 20lb (9kg) each including carry-on for these three nights and that it is packed in a soft, small kitbag. If you wish to leave luggage behind, store it inside the trailer, which is left at the helicopter company.
Landslide Lake elevation gain/loss: 985ft-2,625ft (300m-800m) per day
Accommodation: Wilderness camping
Landslide Lake
We have many options for the next two days, ranging from steady walks through alpine meadows to strenuous treks to surrounding ridges. The tour guides suggest hiking choices such as the Lake of the Fall hike or a trek along an unnamed pass. All hikes offer a truly unforgettable experience in the wilderness of the Canadian Rockies, but it is important to remember there are no designated trails – you’re in complete wilderness. We walk on public land, but this area is ungoverned by a national park. Your guides make decisions based on the group’s capabilities. They carry bear spray, which will be on hand in the rare event it is required.
Landslide Lake elevation gain/loss: 985ft-2,625ft (300m-800m) per day
Accommodation: Wilderness camping
Heli flight; Banff National Park
We depart Landslide Lake this morning on a spectacular helicopter flight to Cline River. Our journey then continues by road towards Banff National Park. Banff is our base for the next two nights, giving us the opportunity to take more wonderful hiking trails. This afternoon, we discover Lake Minnewanka, a glacier lake of 3mi (5km), with an easy hike by the rocky shore. Alternatively, relax by the water, visit the Banff area, relax on Banff Upper Hot Springs or rent a canoe and paddle along the Bow River.
Lake Minnewanka Trail: Minimal elevation gain/loss
Accommodation: Tunnel Mountain (or similar)
Banff National Park; Cory Pass
Today we take the Cory Pass Trail (maximum altitude: 7,625ft/2,324m), an 8.5mi (14km) loop. This is a strenuous workout up 3,219ft (981m) to the Cory Pass, behind Mount Edith, past Mount Louis and through the Edith Pass on the way back to the trailhead.
From the Fireside Picnic area, we follow a 0.6mi (1km) trail to the Cory Pass Junction, and then climb most of the 3,002ft (915m) over the remaining 3mi (4.5km), eventually reaching above the tree line. There are several points to take photos and catch your breath along the way. Once through the Cory Pass, we follow a rough trail for about 2mi (3.5km) through scree fields and across avalanche paths until we rejoin the main hiking trail at Edith Pass. We descend along the drainage through the forest between Mount Norquay and Mount Edith until we loop past the Cory Pass Junction again and then to the trailhead. This is a really good hike and a favourite of the local climbing community.
Accommodation: Tunnel Mountain (or similar)
Hike the Surprise Corner to Hoodoos Trail and return to Calgary; tour ends
Our tour is nearly coming to an end but there is time for one last chance to hit the trails! Today depends on the weather conditions, but we more than likely hike the Surprise Corner to Hoodoos Trail. This is a well-maintained trail, easily accessible from Banff and offering some of its most iconic lookouts. As we hike between Surprise Corner to the Hoodoos, we walk in the cliffside shadow of Tunnel Mountain and along the shores of the Bow River while enjoying views of some of Banff’s most iconic mountains. We pass through lush evergreen forests, past moss-covered boulders, huge Douglas Firs and open meadows with panoramic views.
We can book your post-tour accommodation if required. If you are planning to fly tonight, please do not book a flight that departs before 7pm.
Hike the Surprise Corner to Hoodoos Trail and return to Calgary Airport; depart Calgary
Our tour is nearly coming to an end but there is time for one last chance to hit the trails! Today depends on the weather conditions, but we more than likely hike the Surprise Corner to Hoodoos Trail. This is a well-maintained trail, easily accessible from Banff and offering some of its most iconic lookouts. As we hike between Surprise Corner to the Hoodoos, we walk in the cliffside shadow of Tunnel Mountain and along the shores of the Bow River while enjoying views of some of Banff’s most iconic mountains. We pass through lush evergreen forests, past moss-covered boulders, huge Douglas Firs and open meadows with panoramic views.
After the walk, those on the group flight will be transferred to the airport.
Arrive London
Camping
This camping tour uses national and state park campsites and a wide assortment of private campgrounds. These are not always within the national park boundaries, but we select the best from what is available in each area. Most have flush toilets and hot showers; however, some may charge an additional fee of 1-3 Canadian dollars (US$0.75-US$2.25) for use of the showers. The ground for camping is usually a mix of hard dirt and gravel.
You sleep in high-quality tents, which single travellers share with one other passenger of the same sex. Camping equipment also includes field kitchens, inflatable sleeping pads, food storage and camp lanterns and chairs. Most campsites have a quiet time from 10pm to 7am. Please respect your fellow campers who are there to enjoy the peace and tranquility of camping.
Accommodation on our tours is based on twin-share, so if you’re travelling on your own, you share with a fellow passenger of the same sex. However, if you would prefer your own space, we offer a single supplement where you can have your own tent for an additional fee.
Trip Experts
Geoff Owens
Travel Sales Expert
Reviews
Add your own reviewCanadian Rockies adventure
Fantastic trip expect all weathers from cold and wet to very warm. Its tough but worth it. Camping is good but expect hard ground to pitch tent on not grass. It’s a trip that you will talk about for a long time. So many different experiences.
Most Inspirational Moment
The helicopter ride to the Canadian wilderness
Thoughts on Group Leader
Jeremy was a great leader knowledgeable, great chef and all round good bloke supported by the excellent Sabrina.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be fit and ready for steep walking, be used to camping for longer periods of time made more challenging by the logistics of storing belongings in locked up vans or hauled into the air away from wildlife. Be equipped for the changeable weather.
Amazing Trip
This was an amazing and unforgettable trip. The hikes were fabulous and the itinerary was ideal. 3 nights in each place meant you got to see a lot in each area and there wasn’t too much driving. The focus was on the hiking and the views and seeing the best of each area. This trip enabled us to see the best spots while at the same time getting off the beaten track. Would highly recommend this trip, well worth it.
Most Inspirational Moment
Everything was exceptional and very well organised but the trip to Landslide Lake was probably the highlight for all the group. Sentinel Pass and the Edith Cavell trail were amazing too.
Thoughts on Group Leader
We had 2 guides, Jeremy and Sabrina. They were just incredible, both individually and as a team. Extremely professional, competent and highly efficient in every aspect of their role. On each walk they were so informative about the mountains and the landscape, they pitched the walks at the right pace and made sure everyone was OK. They were chatty and friendly and catered to everyone's needs. The food on the trip was phenomenal, massive variety each day and plenty of it. Can't praise them enough, they were amazing. The next group to get them will be very lucky indeed.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Yes, bring plenty of layers for the cold mornings and nights. Also, there's only one opportunity to do laundry and that's in Jasper around day 6 or 7, just bear that in mind.
Varied trip showing off the best of the Rockies
The Rockies are magnificent and this trip includes the famous areas around Banff and Jasper but also takes you into the mountains away from the crowds. The group was a mixture of ages but we were all quite experienced walkers. There is little flat so although the distances aren’t great the ascents are strenuous but you get into the heart of the mountains. The camping was very well organised and the food was excellent.
Most Inspirational Moment
There are many great moments but for me the highlight was the first view of the mountains reflected in Landslide Lake. Although we had poor weather at the "wilderness camp" at Landslide the group spirit, led by the guides, made it a special part of the trip.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Charles and Priscilla both worked tremendously hard all the time. They were always cheerful and supportive. Charles was an amazing chef and produced excellent meals, catering for several specialist diets. Their love for the mountains was obvious and they wanted to make sure that we all had the best experience possible.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Read the trip notes - it is correctly graded so make sure you are happy on steep ascents and descents. It can be cold at night in the autumn so you will need a good sleeping bag.
Fantastic trip
Lovely holiday in the Rockies, varied walks, great guides who cooked 3 course meals every night on a 3 ring gas burner. Bus time kept to a minimum but we covered a lot of ground. Just remember, you are in the mountains and the weather can be variable, the averages given in the trip notes can be deceiving!
Most Inspirational Moment
Camping in the back country was fabulous, including the helicopter trip in.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Both leaders were great, Vincent had a lot on his plate on this particular trip and Maggie was a great second in command, doing the majority of the cooking - couldn’t fault either.
Advice for Potential Travellers
It will probably be colder and wetter than you might think,
A great trip for mountain lovers and walkers
Canada is a wonderful country. Everything is on a huge scale and beautiful. The selection of walks offered give a real insight into some of the most beautiful parts and walks there are in the Rockies.
Most Inspirational Moment
Everyone will have their personal favourite part of the trip - some of mine included the Iceline Trail, Moraine Lake and Sentinel Pass, the Glacier Walk and simply being in the van driving from one campsite to the other, listening to music and spotting wildlife and driving past miles and miles of mountains.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The group leaders worked very hard and cooked some fabulous meals. They were both very passionate about the environment and the wildlife. Where they didn't quite reach expectations was in their rigid views of how we should experience the mountains resulting in me sitting out of a couple of the walks. The guides are a really important part of the trip and how they treat you in the mountains is crucial to your enjoyment as well as your safety. Where they fell down even further was their inability to provide a customer service which included listening to the views of the group
Advice for Potential Travellers
Yes, Canada is a lovely country. Be prepared to be wowed but also to flex the itinerary due to wildlife and the weather and other things outside of anyone's control. Find out about your guides approach before you travel if possible - this is key and a common complaint amongst travellers on these trips.
Canadian Rockies Wilderness Walks
Generally a nice holiday, in spectacular scenery. The food was varied and very plentiful (although having 10 females in the party of 12, plus 2 male guides might have had a bearing on this). Assorted dietary restrictions were catered for.
The sites were fine, with the exception of the “last” one near Waterton Park (Waterton Springs Campground) which, in all honesty, was unacceptable for a holiday costing in excess of £3,000 for 11 days camping. We had a 1km walk to get hot water for anything, the toilet facilities near our tents were basic and only just about acceptable (if you ignore the lack of hot water) and the sinks for washing up in were disgusting. They had a large number (40-50) of RVs on site, all situated next to the office and all facilities. We were put as far away from there as was possible on the site (presumably so that a “noisy” group wouldn’t disturb their main source of income – the RVs). There may have been another 5-6 people in tents while we were there. We were unfortunate in that, due to fires, Waterton Park was closed the day after we arrived and then totally evacuated, so I cannot comment on the walks there. This was a shame as I had visited there for 2 days last year and really loved it – there is what looked to be a reasonable site in Waterton Park itself, beautifully situated next to the village, although I can’t comment on its facilities as I was in a hotel. In fact, returning there was a major factor in me choosing to go on this holiday. On the plus side, we only stayed at the poor site for one night. The tour company arranged a new site, well away from the fires (a 500km drive in fact), in a much nicer site, at very short notice.
Most Inspirational Moment
I didn't find anything "inspirational", but I am generally not one for strong emotions.
Thoughts on Group Leader
On the whole, good. At times he did almost seem to be showing off how good a "walker" he was - fast and very agile - but not to the point of doing anything dangerous. It did seem to take us a long while to have breakfast and out on the walk at times. Due to a combination of circumstances, the group naturally split into a faster and a slower group. The two guides handled this well, I thought. Even suggesting some alternative, shorter, routes for the slower group (which included me) on some days so that we didn't feel that we were holding up the faster group all the time.
Advice for Potential Travellers
To enjoy this holiday to the full, you don't just need a good level of fitness, a good level of experience of exercise (walking, running) in hilly terrain is almost a must. I run 3/4 times a week, up to an hour at a time, but there are not many hills near me. The first 2 days left me with very achy muscles from the amount of continuous, uphill walking - often steep and often more than an hour at a time. I sat out day 3 to recover. Although I could have done the walk, I may well have then had to rest for more than a day. If you do not travel light, you might want to pay to have a tent to yourself. Although there were 2 men in the group, the other one was with his wife, so I got a tent to myself. I found this a benefit, apart from putting up and taking down the tent. However that was pretty straightforward, even for one person. I took a 4 seasons sleeping bag, but was too hot every night. However, others were cold on some nights. The overnight temperature (Aug 28 to Sept 7) didn't drop below 10°C in my tent. Personally I think that a 3 seasons bag plus a light blanket would be a better recommendation than a 4 seasons bag.
Excellent trip
The scenery is stunning – not dissimilar to parts of the Alps, but a lot more of it. Our guides (Mac and MP) were both very good – knowledgeable, informative and nothing was too much trouble – and were obviously very passionate about the Rockies. Mac is a great cook, and managed to produce food you really wouldn’t expect when camping – pizza and homemade granola to name two highlights.
Most Inspirational Moment
The Sentinel Pass walk was a highlight, as was jumping into the lake at Waterton after a long, hot day.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take insect repellant (and use it).
Memorable trip to the Canadian Rockies
Really fantastic trip! I got to experience the totally breathtaking Canadian Rockies with a lovely group of people, and led by knowledgeable and passionate guides. The hiking is brilliant, and this trip allows you to walk on the less touristy trails and really get a taste for the wilderness. The itinerary is really well thought-out, meaning you get to walk in a few of the national parks to get a fuller and more varied sense of the landscape, and also the longer hikes are perfectly spread out with easier walking in-between. The guides worked really hard and were incredibly considerate of the group’s preferences. The meals were varied and delicious, and nothing beats sitting by a campfire after a long day of hiking. Such a memorable way to see the Rockies, and definitely served to convince me that I’m going back!
Most Inspirational Moment
Hiking up to the summit at Lineham Ridge in Waterton Lakes national park towards the end of the hike - the most breathtaking view, and it just our group at the top! We stopped to have lunch at the summit and I was completely lost for words. Definitely one of the most memorable moments of our trip.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Mac was the best leader! You'll be lucky if you have Mac or M.P with you on the trip - they really worked hard to make sure everyone was looked after. Mac cooked us a different delicious breakfast almost every morning, and there was also always a really fantastic vegetarian option for me. He was a passionate guide and always considerate of each person in the group, making sure we all felt comfortable on the hikes. I couldn't fault the guides, they really made the trip!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Pack insect repellant and sun cream, and make sure you remember a warm jacket for the evenings and early mornings. Plastic bags are also really useful for damp or wet clothing, and for packing the lunch boxes in your backpack. I also wished I had brought some waterproof trousers for when it rained while we were in the middle of a hike, but they're not absolutely essential. The guides do a fantastic job of looking after you, and there are outdoor stores at regular intervals if you need or forget anything.
Rocky Wilderness Walk
Excellent organization, a lot of fun and beautiful places. Perfect evenings with excellent grill food from best guide I ever had. Great people all over the world!
Most Inspirational Moment
First view of tourqase colour Lake Louise.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Best leader I ever had. Mac, thanks for all joy, lot of information about nature and all the beautiful places we saw!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be positive and just enjoy!
Canadian Rockies and Wilderness Walks
Superb trip – described as challenging and it was! But well worth it for fabulous scenery and wildlife.
Most Inspirational Moment
Achieving the Crypt Lake walk (not on the itinerary, but offered as a choice instead of Lineham). We were limited in time as only one boat each way across the Lake and the walk included exciting time climbing iron ladder, going through tunnel and precarious ledge walk! Very pleased to have done it - and bought the T-shirt!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Superb - Mac was a great cook, and full of knowledge about the history, geology and fauna of the area. Not so hot on plants, but we had plenty of reference material to check up with. Also Mac introduced us to CBC Radio programme The Debaters which was excellent for passing the time on some of the longer journeys between camp sites. As a leader, he was very capable and hard working, always ensuring everyone was included and treated fairly.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Do not believe the trip notes regarding shoes - trainers would not be suitable for this terrain, esp when snow on the ground. Walking shoes or boots are better. Take a pair of flip flops or similar, for camp and one of the walks involves a stream crossing. Don't bother to pack a hairdryer. Don't need anything smart for eating out - casual is fine. Pack a pillow of some kind. In June the Lake Louise camp was very cold at night, but the later camps were not so bad. Expect mosquitoes - don't forget your insect repellent. Most people found walking poles very useful. There are sometimes secure lockers for charging items at the camp site - otherwise there were sockets in the shower/toilet blocks, but not secure.
Start
Finish
Availability
Land Only Trip Price
Optional Single Supplement
Wednesday Wednesday
23 Jul 2025 23 Jul 2025
Sunday Sunday
03 Aug 2025 03 Aug 2025
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 3549 £ 3549 Book with £ 887 deposit Book with £ 887 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 200
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWednesday Wednesday
20 Aug 2025 20 Aug 2025
Sunday Sunday
31 Aug 2025 31 Aug 2025
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price £ 3579 £ 3579 Book with £ 894 deposit Book with £ 894 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 200
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWednesday Wednesday
03 Sep 2025 03 Sep 2025
Sunday Sunday
14 Sep 2025 14 Sep 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price £ 3599 £ 3599 Book with £ 899 deposit Book with £ 899 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 200
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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Canadian Rockies: Heli-Hike & Wilderness
12 Days
Excluding Flights
13 Days
from