Canadian Rockies: National Parks Westbound

14 Days
From CAD $2,957 Was CAD $3,479
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Guarantee
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Average

Rating

Experience Overview

Now's the time to explore Canada on your terms with this tour that's affordable for young travellers. The Rockies are a great reason to explore the Canadian West, but why stop there? We asked that question, then answered it with this trip — a sprawling, nature-rich mini-epic that melds some of Canada’s best national parks with time on the mist-shrouded shores of Vancouver Island. Find yourself face-to-face with moose, deer, and maybe even a bear on this trip loaded with diverse experiences — glacier hikes, hot springs, and much, much more — you’ll stuff a lifetime’s worth of adventure into the space of a mere two weeks.

Highlights

  • Enjoy the gorgeous scenery of western Canada
  • Create a postcard-perfect photo in Jasper National Park
  • Sip lattes and people-watch in Vancouver
  • Be awed by the mighty Rockies
  • Get up close and personal with Canadian wildlife.

Trip Details

Product CodeProduct Code: 2488

Tour TypeTour Type: Small Group

AccommodationAccommodation: Basic

TransportTransport: Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, ferry, canoe, Zodiac

Guide LanguageGuide Language: English

Travel StylesTravel Styles: 18 - 39 Year Olds Only

Supplier CodeSupplier Code: NCRU

StartStarts: Calgary, Canada

FinishFinishes: Vancouver, Canada

DurationDuration: 14 days

DeparturesDepartures: Guaranteed

Physical RatingPhysical rating: Average

Includes

Activities

  • Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group Your First Night Out Moment: Connect With New Friends Your Discover Moment: Banff Your Big Night Out Moment: Wells Gray Park
  • Entrance fees to all national and provincial parks with walking and hiking excursions
  • Stop at Columbia Icefield
  • Half-day canoeing excursion in Wells Gray PP
  • Self-inflating mattresses and dome tents while camping
  • All transport between destinations and to/from included activities

Accommodation

  • Hotel (1 nt), participation camping (12 nts)
  • 12 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 9 dinners

Transport

  • Air-conditioned private vehicle, hiking, ferry, canoe, Zodiac

Group Leader

  • CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout

Price

Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $2957 (CAD $211 /day)

Itinerary

1

Day 1: Calgary

Arrive at any time.

What better way to kick off your travels than by getting to know your CEO and group over a few drinks? Hit up one of the local pubs in downtown Calgary where you'll enjoy live music, great entertainment, local ales, and some pretty tasty grub. So grab a beer, sit on the patio or at the bar, admire this mountain town, and swap travel stories with your group as the night unfolds.


Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.Activity - Connect with new friends on your first night out in a new destination. Only available on 18-to-Thirtysomethings tours.Accommodation - Ramada Plaza Calgary

2

Day 2: Calgary/Banff

As the day begins spend some of your time discovering the quiet beauty of Banff, a resort town located within Banff National Park. Take some pictures of the wildlife, stroll the shop-lined streets, or hike up a mountain for some spectacular views of the town below. Finish the day off with a dip into a natural hot spring or treat yourself to some pampering at one of the many spas in town.

Meals included: Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.Free_time - Enjoy some free time to do as much or as little as you'd like.Activity - Magnificent Banff—Canada’s first and most famous National Park. Rocky Mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, scenic drives, and a quaint mountain town. First, gaze in wonder, then immerse yourself in a park that has it all! Hike alongside picture-perfect mountains, glaciers, lakes, ice fields, canyons, and even hoodoos. Keep an eye out for wolves, grizzly bears, elk, and mountain lions. Banff’s blend of towering peaks and flower-strewn meadows make it a dream location to enjoy the great outdoors and mountain scenery.Accommodation - Tunnel Mountain Village Campground

3

Day 3: Banff/Lake Louise

Grab a fellow tour mates' hand and gaze in wonder at the beauty of Lake Louise. Hike with a group to the Agnes Lake Tea House, or lose your sense of time along the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Magnificent Banff—Canada’s first and most famous National Park. Rocky Mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, scenic drives, and a quaint mountain town. First, gaze in wonder, then immerse yourself in a park that has it all! Hike alongside picture-perfect mountains, glaciers, lakes, ice fields, canyons, and even hoodoos. Keep an eye out for wolves, grizzly bears, elk, and mountain lions. Banff’s blend of towering peaks and flower-strewn meadows make it a dream location to enjoy the great outdoors and mountain scenery.Activity - Originally built in 1901 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, the Lake Agnes Tea House has been serving fine loose-leaf teas to visitors for over one hundred years. Hike along a forested trail as you make your way past Mirror Lake and cascading waterfalls, to the shores of Lake Agnes. This lovely log building serves up a great cup (over 100 loose-leaf teas!) as well as finger food. The hike to the Tea House is free, but it costs between 5-10 CAD if visitors wish to buy loose-leaf tea while there.Accommodation - Lake Louise Campground

4

Day 4: Lake Louise

You'll be skipping with joy into the beauty that is Yoho NP. Visit Emerald Lake, whose vibrant waters rival those of famed Lake Louise and Takkakaw Falls – the second highest waterfall in Canada. Opt to go whitewater rafting in the afternoon along the Kicking Horse River. Skip the crowds, sip a cold beer by the aquamarine waters, and simply enjoy the untamed beauty of this lesser-known Canadian park.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Get ready for an awesome sight: Takkakaw Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in Canada, with a free fall of 254m (833 ft)!Activity - Discover the beautiful wilderness setting of Emerald Lake and its surroundings, popular for sightseeing, canoeing, and hiking. Skirt around the lake and enjoy the incredible scenery.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Lake Louise Campground

5

Day 5: Lake Louise/Jasper

Make your way to stunning Jasper via the Icefield Parkway. The beauty is so spectacular you may find yourself holding your breath as you drive one of the most scenic mountain landscapes on Earth. The parkway offers an unforgettable journey through a vast wilderness of magnificent peaks, pristine mountain lakes, and broad sweeping valleys. Along the way you will stop at Bow Lake and the Columbia Icefield Centre, where you can choose to walk with an expert guide atop the still active Athabasca Glacier. Tonight, kick back and relax near a campfire in Jasper.
To travel the icefield parkway is to experience one of Canada's national treasures and most rewarding destinations. Stretching 230km (155 mi) between Lake Louise and the town of Jasper, the parkway offers easy access to one of the most spectacular mountain landscapes on Earth. This is a wonderful journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, a vast wilderness of magnificent peaks, pristine mountain lakes, and broad sweeping valleys. Stop at Columbia Icefield for an unforgettable experience. Continue on to Jasper. In the evening, set up your camp and enjoy a nice warm campfire.




Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Visit the stunning turquoise waters of this mountain-rimmed lake.Activity - View one of the Rockies' largest and most accessible active glaciers. The Athabasca Glacier recedes at a rate of nearly 5m (16.4 ft) a year. See this natural beauty while you still can.Activity - Jasper National Park might be less known, but no less mighty. As the largest park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is wild in every sense of the word. Experience mountain landscapes complete with waterfalls, canyons, glacier lakes, and the Columbia Icefield. Get out and explore on rugged backcountry trails chock-full of wildlife and take part in outdoor activities like, mountain biking, or skiing, to experience the true essence and beauty of this impressive park.Activity - The Icefields Parkway is a breathtaking drive situated between Banff and Jasper National Parks in Alberta, Canada. Experience the wild beauty of the Canadian Rockies on a winding drive through jagged mountain peaks and past glaciers feeding into brilliant blue lakes. Along the way expect to see postcard mountain vistas, huge valleys, and loads of hiking trails that will get you out and about in this truly incredible area.Accommodation - Whistlers Campground

6

Day 6: Jasper

Wake up in the alpine town of Jasper amid snow-capped mountains and glacier lakes. Stroll through Maligne Canyon, the deepest gorge in the Canadian Rockies. The trail is an easy loop that is full of waterfalls, bridges, dense pine forests, and streams that seem to pop out of nowhere. Take the rest of the morning to explore Jasper NP. Rent a canoe and get out on Maligne Lake with your friends, seek some thrills whitewater rafting on the Athabasca River, or simply take it all in. Then spend the afternoon losing yourself in the lively mountain town.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Malinge Canyon follows an interpretive trail with several bridges. Hover over the Malinge River that, over thousands of years, has eroded the canyon to over 60m (197 ft) in some spots. Free_time - Stroll the streets of beautiful Jasper.Activity - Jasper National Park might be less known, but no less mighty. As the largest park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is wild in every sense of the word. Experience mountain landscapes complete with waterfalls, canyons, glacier lakes, and the Columbia Icefield. Get out and explore on rugged backcountry trails chock-full of wildlife and take part in outdoor activities like, mountain biking, or skiing, to experience the true essence and beauty of this impressive park.Accommodation - Whistlers Campground

7

Day 7: Jasper/Wells Gray Park

Get an early start today as you and the group head further west towards British Columbia. Pass the majestic peak of Mount Robson, the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies. Stop at the visitor centre and grab your next “Insta” photo on the large viewing deck before jumping back in the van to continue on to Wells Gray PP.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Stop at the visitor centre and, if it’s a clear day, see the top of the Mount Robson, the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies.Activity - Celebrate new friends and new adventures with a party at camp tonight in Wells Gray National Park. Enjoy time together around the fire; maybe play charades, laugh, tell jokes, and have an impromptu dance party as the stars come out to join you on this fun night!Accommodation - Wells Gray Ranch Campground

8

Day 8: Wells Gray Park

Head out for an exciting adventure canoeing in the Canadian wilderness. Take this time to laugh and be silly with your friends or paddle off to quieter coves for some peace and reflection. After a lunch on the shore overlooking Clearwater Lake you will stop at some of the most fascinating waterfalls in the park, including Helmcken Falls — world famous for being three times taller than Niagara Falls.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Activity - Get in a boat and start paddling! Enjoy canoeing on beautiful Clearwater Lake with local guide and an included shore lunch.Activity - Enjoy a visit to this wide waterfall that spans the Murtle River. In spring and early summer, thousands of litres of water rush over the falls every second -- it's a spectacular sight. Activity - Set in a lush canyon, the world famous Helmcken Falls is the most iconic in the "Waterfall Park" -- it's three times the height of Niagara Falls! Enjoy the spray and beautiful scenery on your visit here. Accommodation - Wells Gray Ranch Campground

9

Day 9: Wells Gray Park/Whistler

Today is a travel day, but never fear you'll have no time to be bored. There will be plenty of opportunities for conversation, reflection, and taking photos as you drive from the densely wooded forests of Wells Gray PP through the Canadian desert and into the coastal mountains of BC. Remember, it's often the longer days that create the best bonding experiences for you and your new mates.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Explore the shores of Seton Lake, a freshwater fjord ringed by towering mountains. The turquoise waters and breathtaking landscape surrounding the lake make for incredible views and iconic imagery of interior British Columbia.Activity - Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.Accommodation - Riverside Resort Campground

10

Day 10: Whistler

Good morning from one of Canada's greatest natural playgrounds. Right when you thought you couldn't fall more in love with Canada you most certainly will. The scenery here is almost dreamlike and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in it all is with a morning hike. Take in a waterfall, witness incredible views of Daisy Lake, or try your hand at other outdoor adventures like ziplining, rafting, or mountain biking. In the afternoon explore more of Whistler, grab some food, play some frisbee, or just sit and talk outside.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Get out and explore beautiful Whistler.Activity - Hike on your own along one of the many beautiful trails in the Whistler area. The scenery here is stunning. You can also opt for the Train Wreck Trail or take the peak to peak gondola to hike one of the many alpine trails accessible from the summit. Your CEO will NOT be guiding you on this hike. You can opt to do it solo or with your group. Ask your CEO to point you in the right direction.Accommodation - Riverside Resort Campground

11

Day 11: Whistler/Tofino

The outdoor adventures are far from over. Take a ferry across to Vancouver Island and dance beneath ancient Douglas firs. You'll arrive in time to witness a gorgeous west coast sunset. In the morning take a short drive to the ferry terminal before embarking to Nanaimo, also on Vancouver Island. Continue driving to Tofino on the far west of the island and experience stunning scenery, wildlife, and some pretty awesome photo ops along the way.
In the morning, drive a short distance to the ferry terminal. Taking a ferry to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island is an exciting part of the adventure of getting here. BC Ferries offers an outstanding service that travels through some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. In the afternoon, continue to drive to Tofino, just in time for sunset.

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Hop on a ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Come by this beloved Vancouver Island attraction near Parksville to grab a meal, explore the market, and watch the goats on the roof -- yes, really!Activity - Enjoy a visit to beautiful MacMillan Provincial Park. Cathedral Grove, located in the park, is one of the most accessible stands of giant Douglas fir trees on Vancouver Island. Stroll through a network of trails under the shadow of towering ancient Douglas fir trees, majestic pillars untouched by the modern world, some more than 800 years old.Accommodation - Green Point Campground

12

Day 12: Tofino

Enjoy a free day in the great outdoors. Choose to get up close and personal with mother nature on a whale watching tour by Zodiac off of Tofino's coast. Or soak in views of this rugged and untamed landscape and spend time exploring endless stretches of beach. From hikes through rainforests to catching waves out in the Pacific Ocean, Tofino is an outdoor adventurers' paradise. Whatever you decide the time is yours, just make sure to grab your fill of this unique surfer town before it's time to move further south.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Free_time - Get out and leave no stone unturned.Accommodation - Green Point Campground

13

Day 13: Tofino/Victoria

It's off to Victoria today! Breathe in the lush smell of old growth forests and daydream as the island scenery passes you by. Stop at the Old Country Market in Coombs where you can buy souvenirs, grab a bite to eat, or simply sit and watch goats amble by on the roof above. Arrive in Victoria just in time to watch the sunset over the water. Then take the rest of the evening to relax in the city or hangout with your group and tell stories because there's no doubt you have some by now!

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Come by this beloved Vancouver Island attraction near Parksville to grab a meal, explore the market, and watch the goats on the roof -- yes, really!Free_time - Get out and explore Victoria.Activity - Enjoy a brief walk with your CEO. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.Accommodation - Cedar Springs Ranch Campground

14

Day 14: Victoria/Vancouver

Hop on a ferry back to the mainland. The trip ends upon arrival in Vancouver, but we recommend taking some time to discover this beautiful, moody, and invigorating city before you head home. Visit top sights like Stanley Park, Gastown, and the Vancouver Lookout as the day carries on. Not ready to say good-bye yet? Book some additional post-trip accommodation nights to keep your adventure going... because let's face it, taking one more day off is always worth it before heading back to reality.
Please note this trip ends on arrival to Vancouver. If you are interested in exploring Vancouver and its nearby attractions, it is recommended you book additional post-trip accommodation nights.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Transport - Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Depart on arrival to Vancouver. Your CEO can help with any onward travel arrangements you require.

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Tour Operator

G Adventures

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990

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