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Canadian Rockies: Northern Lights Winter Explorer
Canadian Rockies: Northern Lights Winter Explorer
AC

Calgary • Banff • Lake Louise • Jasper • Smoky Lake • Edmonton


Discover the magic of the Canadian Rockies with snowy mountains, frozen waterfalls, thrilling winter adventures, Métis culture, wildlife encounters, and the chance to see the Northern Lights, all in one unforgettable journey.


Day 1: Calgary
Arrive at any time. Attend a welcome meeting in the evening and afterwards choose to have an optional dinner together as a group. Meet Your CEO and Group activity 1h: 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. Ramada Plaza Calgary Downtown (or similar) accommodation Hotel


Day 2: Calgary/Banff
Grab some breakfast on your own at a cosy local spot in town before enjoying an orientation tour of Calgary led by your CEO. See some of the city's winter highlights, like the home of the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, Barb Scott Park, where ice skaters flock, Inglewood, Calgary's oldest neighbourhood, and East Village, the liveliest. Then, transfer to the magical winter atmosphere of Banff, stopping en route for lunch on your own. Upon arrival, see some of the highlights on foot before short walks to either Tunnel Mountain, Bow Falls, or Vermilion Lakes. As darkness comes early, enjoy the festive lights along the iconic main street and find a cosy restaurant for dinner on your own. Calgary CEO-led Orientation Walk activity Calgary, 2h30m Private Vehicle transport Calgary Banff, 1h30m-2h Banff, 4h30m Embark on a CEO-led orientation walk of Calgary. Take in the city in the presence of winter and visit various neighbourhoods and parks as you learn the lay of the land. During this time, travellers will be given the opportunity to purchase warmer clothes should this be needed. Sit back and relax as you scan the wintry scenery between Calgary and Banff. There will be a stop along the way for travellers to grab some lunch on their own. Banff Exploration Tour activity: Enjoy some time to get to know Banff with your CEO. Flanked on all sides by towering mountains, this town is alive with adventure, and the winter is no different. The vibrant streets of downtown are lined with fantastic restaurants, shops, and impressive art galleries. Plus, the town is small enough that it's easy to get around by walking. See some of Banff's highlights by minibus and on foot before taking short walks to Tunnel Mountain, Bow Falls, or Vermilion Lakes. Charlton's Banff (or similar) accommodation Hotel


Day 3: Banff
In the morning, travel to Johnston Canyon and witness the beauty of this place blanketed in sparkling winter snow and towering icicles. The group will walk on the trail and boardwalk to the frozen Lower Falls and Upper Falls using crampons. Drive back to Banff in time for lunch on your own and then enjoy a free afternoon for optional winter activities. Choose to take the gondola up to Sulphur Mountain or relax in the warmth of Upper Banff Hot Springs. From sleigh rides to tubing or skating, there are so many opportunities to get out and explore the gorgeous winter landscape. Private Vehicle transport: Banff to Johnston Canyon, 30 min. Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Banff and Johnston Canyon. The drive will take around half an hour. Winter Hike in Johnston Canyon activity: Johnston Canyon, 2h. Hike through the dramatic winter scenery of Johnston Canyon. Not only will you see towering icicles, but you may also have the chance to observe some ice climbers adventuring at the Upper Falls, which happens to be a popular ice-climbing spot. Walk along the trail, boardwalk, and narrow bridges using crampons to both Lower and Upper Falls. Round trip, this hike is 5km and gains 120m in elevation. Private Vehicle transport: Johnston Canyon, Banff, 30 min. Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Johnston Canyon and Banff. The drive will take around half an hour. Free time activity Afternoon: Spend the afternoon in Banff on your own. Choose from a variety of winter-themed optional activities like going on a sleigh ride, or tubing in Norquay, or renting skates to try one of the indoor or outdoor ice skating rings, or (depending on conditions) Lake Minnewanka. Based on dates, you could also potentially watch a hockey game, or attend the Snow Days Festival in January. Other activities you can choose from are a gondola ride up to Sulphur Mountain, soaking in Upper Banff Hot Springs, or a fat-tire e-bike tour around the town. After dark, you can even choose to try "Wonder of the Sky" for a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain after sunset. Charlton's Banff (or similar) accommodation Hotel


Day 4: Banff/Lake Louise
Depart Banff in the morning and drive to Sunshine Village, a ski resort located on the Continental Divide of the Canadian Rockies within Banff National Park in Alberta and Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park in British Columbia. Here, you will meet your local guide and ride the gondola up to Sunshine Meadows for a half-day snowshoe trip through the pristine winter wonderland environment. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you go. Return to the base of the resort for lunch on your own and then drive to Lake Louise. Enjoy a guided walk with your CEO on the Fairview Lookout Trail and then have time for a self-guided walk around Lake Louise. Take advantage of free time to check out the ice castle or try ice skating on the lake. If you're feeling really festive, head out on a sleigh ride. Your overnight stay will be in Lake Louise Village. Private Vehicle transport Banff Lake Louise, 1h30m. Settle in and scan the winter scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Banff and Lake Louise. There will be a stop at Sunshine Village along the way for a snowshoeing experience. Sunshine Meadows Guided Snowshoeing activity, Banff National Park of Canada, 3h-2h. Meet a local guide and snowshoe on top of the world at Sunshine Meadows. Start with a gondola and chairlift ride straight up to the land above the tree line. Then put on your snowshoes and walk through the pristine alpine environment where there are no trails. It's simply miles and miles of powdery wilderness stretching out in front of you. During this half-day excursion, you will have access to the beautiful winter backcountry for a mix of fun, challenge, and learning, combined with the simple joy of being outside amid nature and the fresh winter mountain air. Winter Visit to Lake Louise activity Lake Louise, 3h Winter is known as a quieter time at Lake Louise, but no less scenic. Enjoy the far less crowded gorgeous views for yourself on a guided CEO-led walk on the Fairview lookout trail. Begin southeast from the lake shore and head into the trees. 1km later, you will step onto a viewing platform poised above the snowy expanse of the lake for an unforgettable view. After, take some time for a self-guided walk around the shore of the lake, with the option to try some ice skating, embark on a sleigh ride, or choose to check out the impressive Ice Castle, open to the public during Ice Magic Festival. Lake Louise Inn (or similar) accommodation Hotel


Day 5: Lake Louise/Jasper
Get ready for a winter exploration of the famous Icefield Parkway today. Leave Lake Louise in the morning and stop along the way at Peyto Lake to stretch your legs on a walk. This stunning glacial lake is a serene winter wonderland between December and March, plus its often less crowded, which offers a quieter excursion through nature's vast beauty. Depending on conditions, the group may be able to walk on Abraham Lake to observe the stunning visual display of the bubbles in the ice. Sit down for an included lunch amid the pristine wilderness surrounding Abraham Lake and enjoy a delicious local culinary experience. Then, hit the Icefield Parkway with stops at Athabasca Glacier, Tangle Falls, and Sunwapta Falls. Arrive in Jasper by early evening and have dinner on your own in town. Meals included: Lunch. Private Vehicle transport: Lake Louise to Jasper, 3h30m-4h. Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Lake Louise and Jasper. The total drive time includes today's stops. There will be a deeper exploration of Icefield Parkway along the route. Peyto & Abraham Lake Winter Visit activity Banff National Park of Canada, 3h Along today's drive, the group will make a stop at Peyto Lake for a walk amid the snow-covered landscape. Then, if conditions allow, walk on Abraham Lake to check out the impressive bubbles in the ice. This natural phenomenon is caused by methane gas that becomes trapped in the ice during winter. The gas comes from the organic matter and bacteria breaking down on the lake bottom. As it rises to the surface and freezes, it creates a stunning visual display. Local Lodge Lunch Experience activity Cline River, 1h Sit down for a delicious locally made lunch at a secluded mountain lodge nestled in the heart of pristine wilderness with views of the surrounding mountains and lake. Sit in the cosy cabin-like environment and watch the winter scenery from the window while you eat lunch together as a group. Icefields Parkway Winter Exploration activity, Alberta, 4h. The Icefields Parkway is also known as Alberta Highway 93. This scenic route spans 232km between Lake Louise and Jasper in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. It is renowned for its breathtaking views of ancient glaciers, snow-peaked mountains, and ice-covered lakes. The group will have plenty of time to enjoy the winter atmosphere with stops at the foot of the Athabasca Glacier, Tangle Falls (where you can check for ice climbers), and a short walk to Sunwapta Falls. It's the perfect way to see as much of the Canadian Rockies' natural charm as possible. Jasper Inn (or similar) accommodation Hotel


Day 6: Jasper
After breakfast on your own in town, the group will explore the Jasper area via hiking or snowshoeing with your CEO. Then, drive along Maligne Valley up to the lake to walk the 3km Mary Schaeffer loop offering unparalleled winter views. You'll be back in Jasper in time for lunch on your own and a free afternoon for optional activities like an introduction to ice climbing, skiing at Marmot Basin, or a canyon ice walk. In the evening, if you have a clear sky, take a walk to try and see the northern lights accompanied by your CEO. Maligne Lake Visit & Hike activity Jasper National Park, 2h30m Visit Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park, which is a popular destination for winter activities. Depending on conditions, the group will hike or snowshoe with your CEO on the trails in the area and walk along the 3km Mary Schaeffer loop, offering gorgeous winter views. Free time activity: Afternoon. Spend a free afternoon enjoying all Jasper has to offer its winter guests. From a canyon ice walk to an introductory ice climbing demonstration, and skiing at Marmot Basin, there's plenty of optional activities for travellers to get involved in. Later in the evening, if there's a clear sky, opt to take a walk with your CEO to try and catch a glimpse of the northern lights. There's also an optional experience available at the Jasper Planetarium should you want to learn more about stargazing and the aurora borealis. Jasper Inn (or similar) accommodation Hotel


Day 7: Jasper to Smoky Lake via Edmonton
After having breakfast on your own in Jasper, the group will drive to Edmonton for some free time in town before continuing onwards to Smoky Lake. Enjoy a stay at a beautiful lodge overlooking the majestic North Saskatchewan River and become inspired, educated, and familiar with the vibrant spirit of Metis culture. The lodge, operated by this local Indigenous nation, offers a place to share warmth and space within their rich culture, located directly adjacent to their Cultural Gathering Centre. Before an included dinner featuring a 3- course meal of sustainably sourced local ingredients, there will be an immersive introduction to Metis Crossing led by knowledgeable Metis interpreters, taking travellers on a journey through the history, traditions, and river-lot life of the Metis people. Meals included: Dinner. Private Vehicle transport Jasper Edmonton, 4h. Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Free time activity: Enjoy some free time in Edmonton to grab lunch on your own. Private Vehicle transport Edmonton to Smoky Lake, 1h30m. Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle. Introduction to Metis Crossing activity, Smoky Lake, 2h. Upon arrival, the group will enjoy the signature introduction to the vibrant spirit of Metis culture. Become inspired, educated, and forge deeper connections led by a knowledgeable Metis interpreter. Be taken on a journey through their history and traditions as you witness an immersive explanation of the Indigenous Metis people. Afterwards, the group will gather together for a sustainably sourced meal. The perfect blend of community and education. The Lodge at Metis Crossing (or similar) accommodation Lodge


Day 8: Smoky Lake
Connect with nature this morning at the Metis Crossing Wildlife Park. Your interpreter will accompany the group on an SUV tour of the paddocks where you can become immersed in the natural beauty of the Metis heritage species, including the rare white bison and elk. Gain a deeper understanding of the interconnected relationships between nature, communities, and natural systems on the Metis land. Head back to the lodge for lunch and downtime before choosing to explore the nearby trails. Strap on snowshoes or skis and set out to explore. This evening, hear why the skies were so important to the ancestors of the Metis and observe stars and constellations above. Listen to legends and folklore from this Indigenous community and enjoy a tea ceremony under the dark sky. If conditions allow, you may be able to witness the beautiful Northern Lights. Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner. Metis Crossing Wildlife Park Visit activity: Smoky Lake, 2h30m. Metis Crossing has its own wildlife park, and the group will enjoy a tour within the paddocks this morning alongside their knowledgeable interpreter. This experience showcases the rich culture and traditions of the Metis community and allows travellers to connect with nature while forging a deeper understanding of the land and culture present here. See the natural beauty of Metis heritage species, including the rare white bison and elk, wood bison, plains bison, and majestic Percheron horses. And gain more knowledge of the interconnected nature of relationships between communities and the natural environment. Hear more about the significant role of bison within Metis heritage. Free time: Afternoon walking trails, sliding, and a small museum are available on site at Metis Crossing. This afternoon, travellers can choose to strap on some snowshoes and set out to explore the more than 10km of ski trails that wind through the property. With options for both experienced adventurers and leisurely walkers, the area offers the perfect mix for everyone, and plenty of time to enjoy the crisp winter air. Activity: The Magic of the Skies Experience. The night skies are filled with stars and constellations that have long served as guiding lights for the Metis. During tonight's activity, the group will hear more about why the skies were so important to the Metis in settling the West during the fur trade. Hear more about how they served as a guide relied upon for survival and were used as a clock and calendar to provide critical instructions for understanding when to plant, hunt, and work the land. Travellers will also experience legends and folklore about the local Indigenous community that have been observed and passed down through the culture for generations during a tea ceremony. If you keep looking towards the sky and the conditions are right, tonight is your chance to witness the alluring phenomenon of the Northern Lights. The Lodge at Metis Crossing (or similar) accommodation Lodge


Day 9: Smoky Lake/Edmonton
After breakfast at the lodge, the group will transfer to the Edmonton Airport, where the tour ends upon arrival. Please do not book onward travel before 2 pm. Meals included: Breakfast. Private Vehicle transport: Smoky Lake - Edmonton, 1h30m. Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Metis Crossing and the Edmonton airport. Departure Day: Not ready to leave? Your CEO can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure. Activity: Winter in the Canadian Rockies hits different - the air's crisper, the mountains feel bigger, and everything slows down under a thick, magical blanket of snow. On this nine-day adventure, you'll explore the iconic landscapes of Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper, then dive deeper into local culture at Alberta's first and only Mtis cultural interpretive centre. Spot wildlife, learn the stories and traditions of the Mtis, and watch the sky for a chance to see the Northern Lights. From snowshoeing through powdery meadows to cruising the legendary Icefields Parkway, this is winter in its purest form - wild, beautiful, uncrowded, and full of meaning.


What is included in the offer
• International Flights with Air Canada with 23 kg baggage
• 6 Nights Hotel Accommodation
• 2 Nights Indigenous Cultural Centre Lodge
• 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners
• Private Vehicle, Snowshoeing.
• Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group.
• Calgary CEO-led Orientation Walk.
• Banff Exploration Tour.
• Winter Hike in Johnston Canyon.
• Sunshine Meadows Guided Snowshoeing.
• Winter Visit to Lake Louise.
• Peyto & Abraham Lake Winter Visit.
• Local Lodge Lunch Experience.
• Icefields Parkway Winter Exploration.
• Maligne Lake Visit & Hike.
• Introduction to Métis Crossing.
• Métis Crossing Wildlife Park Visit.
• The Magic of the Skies Experience.
• Free time in Banff, Jasper, Edmonton, & Métis Crossing.
• All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Value Add
• 15% Discount for these dates - Book by 30th Sept!
Escorted Tour


Prices & Departures:
Total Price Inclusive of Fees:
• C18184 Heathrow from £3299pp
• C18519 Manchester from £3385pp
• C18523 Dublin from £3385pp
• C18520 Edinburgh from £3559pp
Deposit: £325pp


Single Supplement:
• There is no Single Supplement for a shared room.
• Single Rooms are an additional £1129pp
• Deposit: £325pp


No Local Fees Payable


Terms & Conditions:
Based on 2 Adults Sharing



Meal Plans

  • As per Itinerary