About the Experience
Experience the raw and wild power of undiluted nature on our Canadian Rockies Hiking Adventure! Under the famed bluebird skies, experience the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Canadian Rockies on foot and by Cataraft!
Stretching through British Columbia and Alberta, the landscape of the Rockies shifts from snow-dusted peaks to otherworldly glacier fields, stands of old-growth forest, surreal teal-green lakes to fierce, winding rivers. Moose, bears, big-horned sheep, elk and squawky “Whiskey Jacks” (Canada jays) bring the region to life with their cries. The resonating bugle of an elk is one that is not soon forgotten!
From your arrival in Calgary, you can see the mountains visibly rise from the prairies until they fill the horizon. Ask any local and they’ll rattle off all the peaks in one breath: Rundle, Three Sisters, Tunnel, Assiniboine (the “Matterhorn of the Rockies”), Sulphur, Ha Ling Peak…
A Rocky Mountain high is guaranteed as we visit three national parks (Kootenay, Yoho and Banff) on this adventure. We’ll begin with easier hikes and gently acclimate before attempting the challenging elevation in Kootenay. Did we mention the deep-penetrating muscle soak in Radium Hot Springs at the end of the day?
We’ll also explore the lush Columbia Wetlands by cataraft before heading to the vertical rock walls and ribbons of waterfalls at Yoho National Park. Yoho is located on the western slopes of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, and here, we’ll treat ourselves to pampered stays in local inns after testing our mettle (and calves) on the famed Iceline Trail!
Our Canadian Rockies Multisport Adventure loops around to include a hike around Alberta’s iconic Lake Louise and a full day of adventures in Canada’s oldest national park. Established in 1885, Banff National Park is a timeless wonder of alpine panoramas, coniferous forest, jagged mountains and the twisting Bow River.
Go wild in Canada’s favourite playground! Yes, we’re telling you to go take a hike!
About the Experience
Experience the raw and wild power of undiluted nature on our Canadian Rockies Hiking Adventure! Under the famed bluebird skies, experience the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Canadian Rockies on foot and by Cataraft!
Stretching through British Columbia and Alberta, the landscape of the Rockies shifts from snow-dusted peaks to otherworldly glacier fields, stands of old-growth forest, surreal teal-green lakes to fierce, winding rivers. Moose, bears, big-horned sheep, elk and squawky “Whiskey Jacks” (Canada jays) bring the region to life with their cries. The resonating bugle of an elk is one that is not soon forgotten!
From your arrival in Calgary, you can see the mountains visibly rise from the prairies until they fill the horizon. Ask any local and they’ll rattle off all the peaks in one breath: Rundle, Three Sisters, Tunnel, Assiniboine (the “Matterhorn of the Rockies”), Sulphur, Ha Ling Peak…
A Rocky Mountain high is guaranteed as we visit three national parks (Kootenay, Yoho and Banff) on this adventure. We’ll begin with easier hikes and gently acclimate before attempting the challenging elevation in Kootenay. Did we mention the deep-penetrating muscle soak in Radium Hot Springs at the end of the day?
We’ll also explore the lush Columbia Wetlands by cataraft before heading to the vertical rock walls and ribbons of waterfalls at Yoho National Park. Yoho is located on the western slopes of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, and here, we’ll treat ourselves to pampered stays in local inns after testing our mettle (and calves) on the famed Iceline Trail!
Our Canadian Rockies Multisport Adventure loops around to include a hike around Alberta’s iconic Lake Louise and a full day of adventures in Canada’s oldest national park. Established in 1885, Banff National Park is a timeless wonder of alpine panoramas, coniferous forest, jagged mountains and the twisting Bow River.
Go wild in Canada’s favourite playground! Yes, we’re telling you to go take a hike!
DAY 1: ARRIVAL
Welcome to the quintessential Rockies! Meet your fellow Wild Women in Calgary, Alberta in the morning. We’ll head west and drive through Banff National Park. Be on high alert for wildlife–they’re on the move too! Bears and mountain goats don’t always obey the traffic signs and are a familiar sight along Trans Canada Highway.
We’ll cross the border into British Columbia to the deep canyons and hot springs of Kootenay National Park. Depending on how the group feels, we can strike off on a short hike at Stanley Glacier trailhead or stretch our legs on an easier, scenic wander through Marble Canyon.
We’ll stay overnight in Radium Hot Springs, located on the western edge of the Rockies in the Columbia Valley. In June 2021, the village celebrated the opening of a net zero brewing company. The entire building at Radium Brewing produces as much energy as it uses over the course of a year and its beer is 100% produced with renewable energy.
Good things are brewing and bubbling in Radium. The 100% natural mineral water of Radium Hot Springs is a reliable 37 to 40 degrees Celsius (98-104F). So, say cheers or aaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh. Better yet, both!
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Prestige Inn
DAY TWO: PINNACLE MEADOWS AND DIANA LAKE
Today we’ll drive to the trailhead for Diana Lake. This incredible hike has a moderate ascent into a stretch of rolling alpine meadows before unfolding into the mesmerizing view of Diana Lake. The lake sits below a towering peak known as “The Judge”–you be the judge! We think this backdrop is perfect for a Wild Women family photo!
Depending on the group’s pace and timing, we might be able to stop for tea and nibbles in the quaintness of Diana Lake Lodge before returning to the trailhead. Due to the teahouse’s remote location, they can’t guarantee that they will be able to make exact change if you’re paying by cash but you can also pay for your sweet fix via Interac e-transfer or by cheque! Where can you do that anymore? Perhaps more amazingly, if you forget your wallet, the teahouse operates on an honour system, so if you give them your word that will pay them at some point in the future, that’s cool!
Tonight, we’ll be staying at the edge of the wetlands in the cozy comfort of the Columbia Wetlands Outpost. The Outpost has perks plus! There’s a hot tub for 8, wood-burning stove, movie theatre-style popcorn maker and shelves of board games.
We have the entire lodge rented for Wild Women so it’s going to be one big slumber par-tay!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Columbia Wetlands Outpost
The skinny on today’s hike:
- Hiking Distance: 11km (7 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 600m (1,969ft)
DAY THREE: THE COLUMBIA WETLANDS
Today we will continue on our Rocky Mountain ramble by exploring the Columbia River Wetlands. These wetlands have been designated as a Ramsar site – a designation given to wetlands of international importance – and form one of the longest continuous wetlands in North America.
In the afternoon, we’ll join a local naturalist for an intimate guided tour of the wetlands in a “Cataraft” or “cat”. This innovative watercraft is easily recognized by its pair of pontoons straddled by a metal frame. This cat likes water!
This biodiverse wetland area of slow-moving streams and still, hidden lakes is the headwaters of the mighty Columbia River! Black bears, mink, river otters, blue herons and bald eagles are just a few of the many species that inhabit the area. The wetlands are an integral part of the Pacific Flyway (migration route) and birders will be spinning with over 100 species. The sedges, grasses, dogwoods and black cottonwoods that anchor the convoluted banks of the Columbia are alive with birdlife. One of the world’s highest concentrations of osprey is found here!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Columbia Wetlands Outpost
DAY FOUR: YOHO NATIONAL PARK
Before heading east to Yoho National Park, we’ll have another opportunity to absorb the wilderness at the Outpost. We’ll walk one of the interpretive trails along the fringe of the wetland in hopes of seeing a beaver at work or swimming to his/her jobsite.
En route today, we’ll walk a short trail to Wapta Falls. The lush walk to the base of the 30m (98ft) waterfall is the largest on the Kicking Horse River. Be on the lookout for wolf tracks too–this habitat is a treasured one and the nearby Leanchoil marsh is home to several shorebirds and waterfowl.
We’ll also visit the sweet railroad village of Field (population: 200), located in the heart of Yoho National Park. Artisans (of all mediums) and ski bums alike have found a deep connection and even deeper roots in this unique community tucked in the Kicking Horse River valley off the iconic Trans Canada Highway. Tonight’s stay will be a pampered one at the beloved Truffle Pigs Bistro + Lodge! Yes, you will sleep like a little pig in a blanket!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Truffle Pigs
DAY FIVE: ICELINE TRAIL
This is a big day! After a hearty breakfast, we will hike the famed out and back Iceline Trail, one of the best hikes in the Canadian Rockies. Depending on the month, be sure to stop and smell the flowers–the wildflowers of the Iceline Trail are a magnetic draw. Expect the colourful company of columbines, arnica, mauve harebells, fireweed, paintbrush, bull thistles and maiden blue-eyed Mary!
We’ll begin the hike in Yoho Valley at the pounding base of the 373m (1,224ft) Takakkaw Falls and hike to the top of the trail for an up close and personal encounter with the Emerald Glacier. The Yoho Valley views bring out the urge to yodel. You’ve been warned.
After a big day of fresh air and going hog wild in the wilderness, we’ll retire to the Truffle Pigs Bistro + Lodge.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Truffle Pigs
The skinny on today’s hike:
- Hiking Distance: 21 km (13 miles)
- Elevation Gain: 690 m (2,263ft)
DAY SIX: LAKE LOUISE
This morning we’ll head to the undeniably marvelous Lake Louise. In summer, the lake is a turquoise masterpiece that attracts hikers and paddlers eager to be immersed in its colours. Even in the winter, when the surface is like frozen glass, visitors are drawn to Lake Louise in all its transformations. Skating on the totally transparent surface and admiring the annual ice sculpture creations is another Bucket List ☑.
We’ll have another big day of hiking in the Rockies! There will be several options for today’s hike depending on the group’s skill-level and pace. We can walk to Lake Agnes Tea House, past Mirror Lake and a dramatic waterfall that spills out of Lake Agnes. The Canadian Pacific Railway built this alpine hut as a refuge for hikers. The Tea House is a welcome break and the views and baked goods are equally sweet!
Option two is the Plain of Six Glaciers (10.5 km/7 miles) which also has a well-loved tea house. This hike has a particularly awesome view of the imposing Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and lake itself. There’s some elevation gain (340 m/1,115 ft) but huge personal gain!
Or, if the group is feeling really wild, we can do a tea-hop round trip circuit that includes both!
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Lake Louise Inn
DAY SEVEN: BANFF
We’ll transfer to the powder-lovin’ town of Banff this morning and take some time to explore this vibrant mountain destination. We’ll take in the incredible bird’s-eye views from Sulphur Mountain and go for a hike or raft along the Bow River. Depending on the group’s interests, we could also spin through Banff on a guided e-bike tour.
The Bow River originates in the Canadian Rockies with its headwaters at Bow Lake in Banff National Park. It flows 587 km (365 miles) south through Banff, east through Canmore and the foothills and through the city of Calgary. Eventually it winds its way through the prairies to join the Oldman River. Fun fact: Together they form the South Saskatchewan River which eventually empties into Hudson’s Bay.
Tonight we’ll tie our Rocky Mountain experience with a neat and tidy Bow and reflect on our time in the national parks, Diana Lake, the hot springs and wildlife sightings over a farewell dinner at a popular restaurant on Banff Avenue.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tonight’s Sweet Sleep: Banff Park Lodge
DAY EIGHT: ONWARDS
Today, with a sigh, we’ll leave the tall coniferous woods, pure mountain air and chatty Canada jays behind–until next time. We’ll be transported from Banff to Calgary to catch flights back home in the afternoon.
You’re glad we told you to take a hike, right?
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Click here to see upcoming trip dates to book your spot!
Group Rendezvous Point
- Date: Day 1
- Time: 11 AM
- Location: Calgary Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel Lobby,https://www.yyc.com/navigatingyyc/maps.aspx.
Notes about Pick-Up
- Unless otherwise requested, you will be met by your Wild Women guide in the lobby at the Calgary Airport Marriott at approximately 11:00 AM.
- If you arrive in Calgary early but are not staying at the Airport Marriott, you can either take an airport shuttle from your hotel and arrive at the rendezvous at 11 AM or request an earlier pick-up at another hotel location, but you must request this specifically with the WWE office and include this in your travel details form.
For other options, please visit the Calgary tourism website: https://www.visitcalgary.com/
If you choose an earlier flight, you will need to arrange your own transportation to the airport from Banff (allow for an additional one hour travel time).
Drop-Off Point:
- Date: Day 8
- Time: Approximately 12 noon
- Location: Calgary International Airport (YYC) or at your post-trip hotel
Should you require assistance with your travel arrangements, please contact:
Megan and Zale | Now Boarding Travel Travel Specialist
Email: wildwomen@nowboarding.travel
Note: Now Boarding Travel only provides services of 3-star quality or greater. For budget alternatives, please refer to the Lonely Planet guide for your destination.
Important: For international and remote destinations, there is always the risk of flight delays, baggage delays and flight schedule changes which may cause late arrivals, which may, in return, result in you missing the group tour departure. For these reasons, we encourage you to consider arriving a day early, which will also help you overcome any jet lag from traveling!
- Passport
Most countries and airlines recommend passports be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return to your home country. Before you leave, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
US citizens at land and sea borders have other options, such as an enhanced driver’s license, permanent resident card or NEXUS card. See Canada Border Services for approved identification documents.
- Visa
Visitors from certain countries require a visa to enter Canada. Those who are exempt require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA; $7 USD), with the exception of Americans. This must be applied for prior to traveling and can be completed online. It usually takes minutes but can take days. See how to apply Electronic Travel Authorization.
Note: As fees and policies can change, we highly recommend that you contact your local embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements, or see your travel agent.
- Rooming Arrangements
Our trip prices are based on a twin share (minimum two women per room), so we’ll team you up with another solo wild woman to share with if you’re on your own, or of course, you can share with your travel partner.
- Potable Water
Tap water is fine to drink in Alberta and British Columbia and you can refill your water bottles easily. Your guide may carry water purification systems during longer hikes if needed.
If you would like to join Wild Women Expeditions in its commitment to reducing single-use plastic, you can travel prepared with your own water treatment system!
- Currency Exchange Offices & Banks
Please check online for current exchange rates. Wild Women Expeditions likes XE Currency Converter
We highly suggest you read this article: Where to Exchange Currency Without Paying Huge Fees for more information about this for your trip.
A medical emergency situation is extremely unlikely; however, should it arise we need to be prepared with the necessary information to help you.
Important Note: If you choose not to disclose a condition, infirmity, injury, or ailment herein and are subsequently deemed to be unfit for expedition travel due in whole or in part to such condition, infirmity, injury or ailment, Wild Women Expeditions guides, and partners shall have the right to remove you from the trip with no refund or compensation payable. Any evacuation expenses incurred are payable by the evacuee via their medical travel insurance or personal expense.
Getting Fit
You don’t have to be a professional athlete to enjoy your Wild Women expedition. Not by a long shot! You’ll be surprised at what you can achieve with our experienced guides at your side and a little camaraderie.
That said, you’ll definitely enjoy yourself far more if you do some preparation so your body is conditioned and ready to enjoy and make the most of the outdoors.
Here are a few ideas to help you get ready:
- Take every opportunity you can to be active.
You can improve your fitness a lot just by adopting some new habits; take the stairs at work, go for a walk at lunchtime, park your car away from work and walk. Aim for 30 minutes a day and keep a diary so you can look back on it and feel proud. These may sound trivial but they’re all building blocks!
- Rev up your ticker!
Think ‘interval training’, which means doing short bursts of high-intensity work with recovery time in between. Depending on how fit you are this can mean strolling with bursts of power walking, or jogging with sprints. Either way, the aim is to get your heart rate up.
- Join a local walking or running group.
This is a great way to get fit and you’ll also see new places, meet great people… and make them all jealous when they find out what you’re about to go on your travels.
- Hill training.
The most spectacular views aren’t from the bottom of a valley – so the places we go on our trips aren’t flat. A little time training on hills and stairs is an investment that’ll pay off big-time when you’re on your trip. When it comes to hills there’s no hurry – get into a slow steady rhythm and you’ll be at the top before you know it.
- Warm up, cool down and stretch.
If you’re doing a workout then make sure you start and finish gently and stretch any tight muscles – this will help you avoid any aches, pains and pulled muscles. If you’re a member of a gym try some yoga, tai chi or pilates classes to build up your flexibility, stability and balance.
- Take a kayak lesson!
Although this trip is beginner friendly and your guides will lead you through a full orientation once on trip, if you haven’t paddled a kayak before and if you have the opportunity, take lesson or two with a local kayak outfitter in your neck of the woods. Even a pool session is good! This will give you the basics, boost your confidence which will allow you to enjoy your trip that much more.
- Break in your hiking boots.
Blisters and sore feet are no fun at all! So make sure that while you’re getting yourself ready you’re doing the same for your boots. Start by just wearing them around the house, then down the road, and walking the dog. Then ideally do a couple of decent length weekend hikes to prepare them for what is to come.
- Hydration.
When you suddenly ask your body to walk or be active, it needs a bit more fuel than it needs when, say, sitting at a desk all day! The main thing your body needs is water, so stay hydrated and practice sipping water often. Getting a water bottle or hydration bladder is a great way to make sure you have it on hand at all times. Make a habit out of taking a bottle of water with you wherever you go.
- Nutrition.
Eating little and often will keep your body well fuelled for outdoor exercise, especially food like nuts, dried fruit and bread. The odd bit of chocolate and a few boiled lollies are good for keeping your blood sugar levels up while you’re hiking as well!
- Have fun!
The most important point of all! You are about to embark on the trip of a lifetime. You’re going to meet some amazing people, see some wonderful places and create memories that will stay with you for life. The more prepared you are to tackle the various challenges, the more fun you will have. Also, with all the endorphins you create from all this training, you’ll be smiling from ear to ear! It’s a great way to boost your happy vibes.
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BOOK NOW -
Starting At$5,495Deposit$995Duration8 DAYS
- 🇨🇦CAD PRICEFOREIGN EXCHANGE FEES MAY APPLY
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What's Included
- AWESOME female trip leaders and hiking guides
- Ground transportation from Calgary, Alberta
- 7 nights accommodation at local hotels, lodges and inns
- 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 5 dinners
- All activities as outlined in the itinerary
- Optional private room upgrade, subject to availability (with the exception at Columbia Wetlands Outpost)
- All fees associated with park entry and activities
- All mandatory safety equipment during watersport activities
- Note: We encourage you to bring your own hiking poles and to familiarize yourself with them pre-trip
- All applicable taxes are included in the trip price