Classic Hikes

Hiking in the Canadian Rockies is one of the best ways to explore the natural landscape and beauty of Banff National Park.  We offer 4 tour locations on set days through out the week.  Each having its own charm and challenges.  Every tour includes hotel pick up and drop off, a hearty packed lunch and use of hiking poles if you need them.  Read on for specific information about the individual locations and our hiking schedule.

Price:

• Adult, 13 years+: $74.00

Departs:

• 08:30 daily - Banff
• 09:00 (Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday) - Lake Louise Samson Mall
• 09:15 daily - (Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday) - Chateau Lake Louise
  

Where to meet:

• Hotel pick up and drop off provided

Itinery and highlights:

Hike to Yoho Valley - Sunday

• The hike begins in stunning Yoho Valley, with the ominous roar of Takakkaw Falls in the background. 
• The trail climbs sharply from the valley bottom giving great views of Canada's second highest waterfall. 
• Yoho Lake is a tranquil oasis situated between Mt. Wapta and the President and Vice President Mountains. 
• Sturdy groups may head further up for even greater views.
   
• Rated: Moderate - Difficult
• Hiking Time: 5 hours
• Return Distance: 9.2km (5.8miles)
• Elevation Gain: 290m (950ft)
   
• Departs: 08:30 - Banff, 09:00 - Lake Louise Samson Mall

Hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers - Wednesday and Friday

• Beginning from the shores of Lake Louise, your hike will ascend steadily on well groomed trails. 
• As you get higher, the colour of the lake becomes even more stunning and the crowds begin to disappear. 
• The trail turns into single track and the immensity of the the valley and its peaks becomes even more apparent.
• Near to your final destination is the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House where cakes and tea are served all day long - be sure to bring some money! 
• Just passed the teahouse you will be treated to views of six glaciers feeding into the valley and Lake Louise.
• There are many additional options to explore in the area dependent on the ability of the group.
   
• Rated: Easy - Moderate
• Hiking Time: 4 hours
• Return Distance: 10.6km (6.6miles)
• Elevation Gain:  340m (1100ft)
   
• Departs: 08:30 - Banff, 09:00 - Lake Louise Samson Mall, 09:15 - Chateau Lake Louise

Hike to Stanley Glacier - Tuesday and Thursday

• Fire is the theme of this hike. 
• Stanley Glacier is situated in Vermilion Pass area, home to two gigantic fires in recent history. 
• The first fire occurred in the late 1960s, the second in 2003.  In each case, large tracts of this valley were reduced to charred ground.
• The trail to Stanley Glacier will take you straight through the regrowth of the 1960s fire, and the blackened trees of the most recent. 
• The trail climbs easily for a short while. 
• The strength of your group will determine how hight you ascend. 
• You will be treated to views of Stanley Glacier creeping down the side of Mt. Stanley towards the valley bottom.
   
• Rated: Easy
• Hiking Time: 3-4 hours
• Return Distance: 8.4km (5.25miles)
• Elevation Gain: 395m (1285ft)
   
• Departs: 08:30 - Banff

Hike to Larch Valley - Monday and Saturday

• Trail restrictions due to bear activity make this a definite feather in one's cap. 
• Beginning from the Valley of the Ten Peaks at Moraine Lake, the trail climbs, really climbs, up to Larch Valley on a well groomed trail. 
• After reaching the Valley, the trail ambles through a Larch Forest and then begins to gain elevation again towards Sentinal Pass. 
• Ascending towards the pass, views of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake and gigantic Mt. Temple will complete your experience. 
• Hardy groups may even push towards Sentinal Pass for views of paradise Valley and the Backside of Mt Aberdeen and Mt Hadoo.
• Rated: Moderate
• Hiking Time: 4-5 hours
• Return Distance: 9.0km (5.6 miles)
• Elevation Gain:  465m (1500ft)
   
• Departs: 08:30 - Banff, 09:00 Lake - Louise Samson Mall, 09:15 - Chateau Lake Louise

Early and late season itinerary changes may apply:

• Monday - Castle Viewpoint
• Tuesday - Inkpots
• Wednesday - Castle Viewpoint
• Thursday - Inkpots
• Friday - Inkpots
• Saturday - Castle Viewpoint
• Sunday - Inkpots

Castle Viewpoint - 7.4km return, elevation gain 520m, 3-4 hours return. As you climb towards the lookout, you will pass old mining relics. This trail offers spectacular views of the Bow Valley, Pilot Peak, Storm Mountain and the Lake Louise area.

Inkpots - 5.8km return, elevation gain 215m, 3-4 hours return. Hike through Johnston Canyon past the spectacular Lower and Upper Falls on your way to the Inkpots, green pools of spring water.

Your Tour Includes:

• Certified Hiking Guide
• Hotel pick up and drop off
• Use of hiking poles
• Use of back pack if required
• Use of binoculars
• Hearty packed lunch with choice of sandwich, fruit, snack bars, potato chips, juice, bottled water and our famous maple cookies!

Sandwich choices are:

1. Smoked Turkey on Ciabatta Bread: Swiss cheese, lettuce & cranberry mayonnaise.
2. Prime Rib Sandwich on Ciabatta Bread: AAA prime rib, dijon mustard, mayonnaise, Swiss cheese & leaf lettuce
3. Vegetarian on Multi-grain Bagel: Shredded lettuce, red pepper, red onions, cucumbers, shredded carrots and mayonnaise with dijon vinaigrette.

• Also includes apple, juice, brownie, as well as maple cookies and water.

Remember to bring:

• Warm clothing, and plenty of layers, including hats, gloves and a rain jacket.
• Sturdy shoes or hiking boots.
• Snacks and water (to supplement lunch if required)