10 Best Canadian Rockies Tours to fuel your wanderlust
The majestic Canadian Rockies mountain range extends from British Columbia to Alberta, providing a natural playground for adventure-junkies and outdoor enthusiasts. Not only is the landscape breathtakingly beautiful, but there is also diverse wildlife and plant life to marvel at. In this Canadian Rockies Tours post, we will show how to easily and effortlessly explore the mountains!
As a large mountain range, it can be quite intimidating for a traveler to decide how, when and where to explore the Canadian Rockies.
Whether you’re a local Canadian who knows how to explore Calgary with your eyes closed, or an international traveler coming to discover the beauty of Canada – a tour is a great option.
These Candian Rockies tour reviews should help you start your adventure on the right foot.
10 Absolutely Best Canadian Rockies Tours to fuel your wanderlust
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
| Travel Blanket | Features | Buy Here |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Rockies Tour | - 4 days - Vancouver to Vancouver - 10 Rockies Spots - Perfect for the busy traveler - Vegetarian & vegan meal options - Summer tour | |
| Rockies Classic Winter Tour | - 4 days - Vancouver to Vancouver - 10 Rockies Spots - Best of BC & Alberta - Perfect for the busy traveler - Indulge in winter activities - Winter tour | |
| Grand Western Canada Tour | - 13 days - Vancouver to Vancouver - In-depth exploration - The Canadian Rockies & more - Tour includes free days with customizable sightseeing options | |
| Calgary Wildlife Tour | - 7 days - Calgary to Calgary - Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise Icefields Parkway exploration - Wildlife sighting | |
| Rocky Mountain Camping Adventure | - 7 days - Camping adventure - 11 Rockies spots - Camp outdoors in the Rockies - No hotels, but tents - Children over 12 years only - Small group (up to 12 travelers) | |
| The Canadian Rockies By Rail | - 10 days - BUCKETLIST! - The Canadian Rockies by train - Experience scenic views from oversized train windows - Overnight stays in Calgary, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Vancouver | |
| Calgary Stampede & Rockies | - 7 days - Calgary to Calgary - Rockies highlights - One day at Calgary Stampede - Best of Calgary & Rockies | |
| Canadian Rockies Camping | - 7 days - From Seattle US - Camping, hiking tour - Includes Glacier & Jasper National Parks - Equipment provided - Small-group tour of 14 | |
| Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights | - 11 days - Edmonton to Calgary - Best of cities and Rockies - Northern Lights sighting - Small-group tour | |
| British Columbia Ski Tour | - 6 days - Kelowna to Nelson - Ski tour, with hot springs - Equipment can be rented - Suitable for all skill levels |
There are five national parks located within the Canadian Rockies, four of which are adjacent and make up the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks.
These four parks are Banff National Park, Jasper Banff National Park, Kootenay Banff National Park, and Yoho Banff National Park.
The fifth national park, Waterton lies farther south, straddling the Canada–US border as the Canadian half of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
Rocky Mountain Tours From Vancouver
There are many things to do in Vancouver, the vibrant, bustling city in British Columbia. One of these activities is to go on a Canadian Rockies tour.
Classic Rockies Plus Summer Tour (4 Days)
One of the best ways to discover the Canadian Rockies is when the sun is shining bright, and the flowers are in bloom. This tour’s itinerary boasts deluxe offerings.
Tour Description
Start and end your adventure in the lively city of Vancouver. The 4-day package transports travelers to 10 various Canadian destinations, showcasing the beauty of each.
Day 1 will take you from Vancouver to the Three Valley Gap, a unique lakeside resort in Revelstoke. Here, you’ll enjoy a tour of Ghost Town and a steak BBQ.
Day 2 continues the adventure to Banff. Expect to stop at the famed Lake Louise, go canoeing, tour the town of Banff and soak up the amazing views.
On day 3, you’ll tour through Columbia Icefields, stop in the famous town of Jasper and indulge in a traditional cowboy ranch dinner.
The tour ends on day 4 when you return to Vancouver after stopping for lunch in Kamloops wine tasting.
Why Take This Tour
The classic Rockies summer tour removes all of the fuss for those with limited time. Experience 10 wonderful Canadian destinations with the guidance of a professional. This removes the fuss of organizing the trip as hotel accommodation, meals, and transportation are all included.
If you’re pressed for time and want to enjoy the Canadian Rockies in the summer, then this is the tour for you.
Important Notes
- The Sulphur Mountain Gondola and Ice Explorer Glacier Tour come at an additional cost.
- This tour does offer vegetarian and vegan meals – upon request.
- Although great for those on a time budget, it can be a bit of a whirlwind if you want to take your time exploring the attractions.
Rockies Classic Winter Tour (4 Days)
As beautiful as the landscape is during the summer, it’s equally beautiful in the winter when the mountain peaks are snow-capped and the lakes are frozen over.
Tour Description
Your winter getaway starts in Vancouver and ends in the same destination four days later. You can expect to experience the majestic mountain ranges, explore the town of Banff, marvel at glaciers and waterfalls and learn all about Canadian heritage.
Over the course of four days, you’ll travel across 2,000 kilometers of the Canadian landscape. Prepare to discover 10 iconic destinations and even change time zones.
Starting early in the morning, you’ll depart from Vancouver on day one. This tour will take you through a number of sights including Coquihalla Highway, Bridal Falls, and lunch at BC Wildlife Park. Your first day will also include wine tasting and a storytelling evening around the campfire.
On the second day, you’ll drive through the peaks of Mount Revelstoke National Park and Glacier National Park. There are so many amazing activities that await you here, from ice skating to touring the town of Banff.
Day 3 promises a choice of another winter activity such as skiing or snowboarding, and a visit to Banff hot springs if you choose.
Finally, you’ll stop at Craigellachie on day 4 before returning to Vancouver.
Why Take This Tour
If you’re a winter romantic and dream of escaping to the snow-capped mountains of the Canadian Rockies, then this tour is for you. The 4-day itinerary gives you plenty of options to both relax and soak up the magic and take part in an adrenaline-fueled activity.
The Rockies classic winter tour is the perfect option for travelers who love winter and want to experience the mountains – but are slightly pressed for time.
Important Notes
- The winter activities are all optional, as are some of the other stops on the itinerary. Make sure that you communicate with your friendly guide so that your expectations are managed.
- Some of these activities come at an extra cost, so keep that in mind when budgeting.
- As you can imagine, winter temperatures in the region can get very cold. So, make sure that you pack appropriate winter gear.
Grand Western Canada (13 Days)
If you have a little bit more time to explore, then the Grand Western Canada tour is more than happy to fill it.
Tour Description
Also starting and ending in Vancouver, the discovery tour of Grand Western Canada is a 13-day package that takes travelers through 11 destinations across Canada. The tour package includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals, and transport.
Highlights of the tour include spending quality time in Canada’s iconic national parks. Both Banff National Park and Jasper National Park are on the itinerary, with visits to Whistler, Kamloops, Victoria, and Kelowna included. Imagine waking up and having breakfast on a mountaintop at the Banff Gondola – yes this tour has it!
You’ll get the opportunity to admire the beautiful Lake Louise, travel to Maligne Lake, and then Maligne Canyon on your return, and also cruise to Spirit Island. But it’s not just the breathtaking nature that you’ll need your camera for. You’ll also visit the world-famous Butchart Gardens, learn the history of the First Nations people and enjoy a private breakfast at the Squamish Lil’Wat Cultural Centre.
Why Take This Tour
The Grand Western Canada tour is the perfect option for groups or individuals who want to take their time exploring all that Canada has to offer. If you’re interested in Canadian natural wonder as well as the local history and culture, then this is the perfect tour for you.
Important Notes
- International flights are not included in this tour, neither are Canadian hotel taxes. Keep this in mind when planning your budget.
- There are a couple of free days or free time allocated on the tour to explore as you wish. These are in the towns of Victoria and Whistler where there are plenty of activities to enjoy. The tour has some suggested experiences, but you may want to do a bit of research beforehand.
Tour Canadian Rockies From Calgary
Calgary is one of the most popular places to begin a tour of the Canadian Rockies – and for good reason. We’d suggest that you find a great place to stay in Calgary and use it as your starting point for the tour of a lifetime.
Calgary Wildlife Tour (7 Days)
If you love fauna as much as flora, then this tour is perfect for you. It combines the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies with sightings of the animals that call the area home.
Tour Description
This wildlife tour is a week-long experience (7 days) that begins and ends in Calgary. The tour includes stops at Lake Louise, Jasper National Park, Athabasca Glacier, and Banff, making for a well-rounded travel experience.
In addition to the snow-capped peaks and spectacular Icefields Parkway, you also stand a chance to see grizzly bears, moose, and elk. Along your journey, you’ll hear stories from a real Canadian Mountie who knows the wild like the back of their hand.
The package includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals, and transport. All that’s left for you to do is kick back, relax and make unforgettable memories.
Why Take This Tour
This wildlife tour offers an excellent itinerary for nature-lovers who want to view wild animals while exploring the Canadian Rockies. As one of the best nature tours, Canadian wildlife is at your fingertips, with valuable information to boot.
Important Notes
- This Candian Rockies tour package includes four dinners, the rest of the meals are not included in the package. You have the option of requesting Jain, Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal, and Kosher meals in advance.
- All porterage and local charges are included in the tour price.
Rocky Mountain Camping Adventure (7 Days)
The Rocky Mountain camping experience takes the Canadian encounter to the next level of adventure. Strap on your hiking boots, because it’s about to get wild.
Tour Description
The tour begins in Calgary and will take you through 11 other destinations in Canada, stopping to pitch a tent each night. You can expect to camp in Jasper National Park, discover the beauty of Lake Louise, visit Athabasca Glacier and explore Yoho National Park.
Zip open your tent every morning and be greeted by a phenomenal view in the midst of natural beauty. Throughout the itinerary, there are also opportunities to go rafting or hiking and better enjoy the scenery.
With a guide by your side and comfortable transportation to get from point A to point B, there’s no additional fuss or planning needed. In addition, gourmet food is prepared by your guide for all dietary requirements.
Why Take This Tour
If you want to get up close and personal with the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies, then this camping adventure is for you. This is the perfect tour for the outdoor enthusiast who loves adventure and isn’t afraid to rough it for a night (or six).
Important Notes
- This tour is only available for children 12 years and older and has a maximum group size of 12.
- All campsites have toilet facilities, including hot showers.
The Canadian Rockies By Rail (10 Days)
A popular alternative to the usual Canadian Rockies bus tours is to discover the natural beauty by rail. This iconic way of experiencing the landscape is on the bucket list of travelers all around the world.
Tour Description
Discover the Great Resorts of the Canadian Rockies with the Rocky Mountaineer. The rail line will take you through the scenic country, stopping in Calgary, Lake Louise, Jasper, Banff, Kamloops and Vancouver for overnight stays.
The entire tour is 10-days long, giving you enough time to discover the area at a leisurely pace. The highlight of the trip is undoubtedly enjoying the charm of riding in coach. Enjoy panoramic views from the oversized windows as you journey from Banff to Vancouver from days 7 to 9.
You’ll have plenty of time to explore towns and cities that you pass through, take in the magnificent scenery and even enjoy a memorable ride on the Ice Explorer. As with the other tours mentioned above, this experience includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals, and transport.
Why Take This Tour
Discovering the Canadian Rockies by train is on the bucket list of countless travelers around the world. This tour allows you to discover the Great Resorts of the Canadian Rockies from the iconic dome couch of the train.
Choosing to explore the area by rail is a very unique experience that promises feelings of serenity, nostalgia, and awe.
Important Notes
- Certain activities in the itinerary, such as the lake cruise, may be canceled due to weather.
- Canadian hotel taxes are not included in the price of the tour.
Calgary Stampede and Rockies (7 Days)
The Calgary Stampede is a world-famous event that entertains travelers from all around the world. If you can combine the Calgary Stampede with your Candian Rockies tour – then that’s a fantastic plan!
Tour Description
The Calgary Stampede is an annual gathering that takes place in the vibrant city of Calgary in July. If you manage to align your Candian Rockies tour with the iconic event, then you’re in for a real treat.
This particular 7-day tour gives you the opportunity to visit the stunning Lake Louise and jump on board an Ice Explorer. You can also indulge in the beauty of Banff and spend an entire day at the Calgary Stampede.
The tour starts and ends in Calgary, with stops made in Jasper and Banff along the way. The tour package, which includes accommodation, an expert guide, meals, and transport, is a great way to experience Candian culture.
Why Take This Tour
If you are a social traveler and enjoy experiencing the culture of an area, then this is the perfect tour for you. You can enjoy the beauty of the Canadian Rockies, marvel at the natural glories of the area, and then finish off your tour with a festive event.
Important Notes
- If you want to enjoy the Calgary Stampede, you’ll need to make sure that you book your experience over the correct dates. The package includes one day tour to the Calgary Stampede festivities for the listed price.
Explore The Canadian Rockies From Seattle
Although across the continental border, Seattle is a great starting point for travelers wanting to witness the magnificence of the Canadian Rockies.
Small-Group National Parks (7 Days)
If you love camping, being in nature and traveling in a small, intimate group, then this tour is for you.
Tour Description
This week-long camping Canadian Rockies tour starts and ends in Seattle, with all of the logistics sorted out beforehand. The 7-day itinerary takes you to Bridal Veil Falls, Canada’s Glacier National Park and Jasper National Park.
Included in the itinerary is a hike to the Plain-of-Six-Glaciers, a visit to Yoho National Park and opportunities to explore the cities of Whistler and Vancouver.
The tents and equipment for camping are all provided, you only need to bring along a sleeping bag. An expert tour guide will be there to enhance your experience throughout the duration.
Why Take This Tour
If you’re based in the United States, then this cross-continental tour is a great way to see the Canadian Rockies. The small group makes the experience significantly more intimate. The camping accommodation also makes this tour the perfect option for anyone who loves adventure and the outdoors.
Important Notes
- Sleeping bags can be rented at a cost of $40 USD, but advance notice is required.
- This is a small group tour, so a maximum of 14 people can join the group.
- There is a local food kitty of $100 USD per person which is to be paid on cash upon departure.
Canadian Rockies Tour From Edmonton
Just north of Calgary, Edmonton is loved as the “Gateway to the North”. There are so many wonderful things to do in Edmonton, one of which is going on a Canadian Rockies adventure!
The Canadian Rockies And The Northern Lights (11 Days)
Edmonton is one of the best places in Canada to see the ethereal magic of the Northern Lights. This tour gives you the opportunity to see two natural wonders in one go.
Tour Description
This Canadian adventure spans over 11 days and gives you a chance to experience the rugged mountains of Canada and stand a chance to witness the glory of the Northern Lights. Starting in Edmonton, the tour ends in Calgary after taking you through Jasper, Banff and Lake Louise.
Although the physical requirements for this tour aren’t strenuous by any means, you’ll be able to explore a canyon in Jasper National Park and join an optional sleigh ride around Lake Louise.
Why Take This Tour
The Canadian Rockies and the Northern Lights tour showcases the BEST of Alberta in a short period of time. You are exploring the capital city – Edmonton, Calgary and of course the highlights of the Rockies with beautiful scenery.
This is the perfect tour if you want to spend less time in a vehicle, and more time exploring each destination. As a small group, the tour is more intimate, which is great if you don’t enjoy large tour groups.
Important Notes
- This tour has a minimum age of 15 and a maximum group size of 12.
- Be advised that this itinerary doesn’t allow time for skiing and snowboarding.
The Canadian Rockies From Kelowna
A city on Okanagan Lake, Kelowna is a favorite vacation spot and a fantastic place to start your Canadian Rockies adventure.
British Columbia Ski Tour (6 Days)
The snow-covered mountains are the perfect playground for the adrenaline-addict and winter sportsman (or woman).
Tour Description
Staring in Kelowna and ending in Nelson, this 6-day ski, snowboard, and snow tour through British Columbia allows you to experience the Canadian Rockies in a very different way.
Nelson is set on the shores of Kootenay Lake, a city with a great heritage, culture, and nature. It is located about halfway between Calgary and Vancouver, and it is slowly attracting more and more tourists, who wish to explore the western Canadian nature scape.
Each day of the tour, you’ll be given the chance to tear up snow on the mountains as you partake in your winter activity of choice. As an added bonus, this tour includes two hot spring excursions to help you relax after an exciting day on the slopes.
Accommodation, an expert guide, and transport are all included as you move from one ski resort to the next.
Why Take This Tour
If you’re an adrenaline-junkie or a winter sports enthusiast, then this is the perfect tour for you. It gives you an opportunity to enjoy the Canadian Rockies while breaking a sweat and creating fantastic memories.
Important Notes
- Meals are not included in this tour and need to be organized at your own additional cost.
- This tour is suitable for all skill levels. If you’re a beginner, then you can pay extra for lessons.
- If you have your own gear, bring it along. If not, you’ll have to rent at an additional cost.
FAQs About The Canadian Rockies Tours
With so many fantastic tour options available, it’s time to start preparing your Canadian Rockies adventure. Before you dive in, here are some answers to a few frequently asked questions.
Where Exactly Are The Canadian Rockies Located?
The Canadian Rockies are a segment of the larger Rocky Mountains. The Canadian section extends across 1,600 kilometers, starting from Northern British Columbia and ending in Alberta. In fact, the Canadian Rockies make up approximately 1,500 kilometers of the British Columbia and Alberta border.
When Is The Best Time To Visit The Canadian Rockies?
The best time of year to visit depends largely on what sort of activities interest you. If you want to enjoy snow-capped mountains and turquoise lakes, then Canadian winter is best (December to March).
If you prefer hiking the trails when it’s warm, then the ideal time to visit is summer (June to September). Regardless of which time of year you visit, you’re in for a treat.
How Long Should I Explore The Canadian Rockies?
In our opinion, any amount of time between one and two weeks will give you enough time to explore the area without rushing. The average tour number of days for our recommended tours is 7 days, but you can adapt your itinerary based on your needs.
How Do You Do The Canadian Rockies By Rail?
A popular way to discover the Canadian Rockies is via rail. Since VIA Rail’s southern transcontinental service has been canceled, Rocky Mountaineer is the only passenger rail service that operates the route.
Final Thoughts On Canadian Rockies Vacation Packages
Regardless of where you start, you can experience the same beauty of the Canadian Rockies with a convenient tour. Whether you choose one of the Canadian Rockies train tours, a family camping trip or a hiking adventure, the natural wonder is yours to embrace.
Take your pick based on the number of days, the season of the tour and the activity that best tickles your fancy. The Canadian Rockies are calling your name, so don’t leave them waiting!
| Travel Blanket | Features | Buy Here |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Rockies Tour | - 4 days - Vancouver to Vancouver - 10 Rockies Spots - Perfect for the busy traveler - Vegetarian & vegan meal options - Summer tour | |
| Rockies Classic Winter Tour | - 4 days - Vancouver to Vancouver - 10 Rockies Spots - Best of BC & Alberta - Perfect for the busy traveler - Indulge in winter activities - Winter tour | |
| Grand Western Canada Tour | - 13 days - Vancouver to Vancouver - In-depth exploration - The Canadian Rockies & more - Tour includes free days with customizable sightseeing options | |
| Calgary Wildlife Tour | - 7 days - Calgary to Calgary - Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise Icefields Parkway exploration - Wildlife sighting | |
| Rocky Mountain Camping Adventure | - 7 days - Camping adventure - 11 Rockies spots - Camp outdoors in the Rockies - No hotels, but tents - Children over 12 years only - Small group (up to 12 travelers) | |
| The Canadian Rockies By Rail | - 10 days - BUCKETLIST! - The Canadian Rockies by train - Experience scenic views from oversized train windows - Overnight stays in Calgary, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Vancouver | |
| Calgary Stampede & Rockies | - 7 days - Calgary to Calgary - Rockies highlights - One day at Calgary Stampede - Best of Calgary & Rockies | |
| Canadian Rockies Camping | - 7 days - From Seattle US - Camping, hiking tour - Includes Glacier & Jasper National Parks - Equipment provided - Small-group tour of 14 | |
| Canadian Rockies & Northern Lights | - 11 days - Edmonton to Calgary - Best of cities and Rockies - Northern Lights sighting - Small-group tour | |
| British Columbia Ski Tour | - 6 days - Kelowna to Nelson - Ski tour, with hot springs - Equipment can be rented - Suitable for all skill levels |
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Pin: 10 Absolutely Best Canadian Rockies Tours
