ROCKIES SUMMER EXPLORER
Overview
Get ready for a thrill-packed journey from Vancouver to the heart of the Canadian Rockies, including all of the most essential destinations. On this 4-day guided tour, you will see breathtaking scenery as you take a roadtrip through the most epic sites of Western Canada. Stay in cozy wood cabins in Blue River* on the first night before travelling from the towering peaks of Mount Robson to the iconic town of Banff. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature, explore charming local shops, and indulge in outdoor Canadian activities to make unforgettable memories. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Golden, and walk along Canada’s highest suspension bridge on this pure Rocky Mountain adventure!
Take a look at our available optional activities and make the most out of your tour. We offer special pricing for all of our add-ons.
*All departures after September 19th, 2024 will stay at an inn in Valemount instead.
Itinerary
Please note that this is a sample itinerary and it is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, such as weather or road closures.
Vancouver to Blue River/Valemount
- The adventure begins! Please meet your guide at Canada Place in downtown Vancouver at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure
- Depart Vancouver and head to the famous little town of Hope for a quick pit stop
- Travel through the Coquihalla Corridor
- Stop for lunch in Kamloops or nearby (own expense)
- Visit the spectacular Spahat Falls in the Wells Gray Provincial Park
- Stop in Clearwater and buy food for dinner later
- Arrive at your wood cabin in Blue River* and have free time to make your dinner, enjoy the amenities and the beautiful lake
*Please note that shoulder season tours (September 20 – October 30) will stay in an inn in Valemount, as the Mike Wiegele Resort closes on September 19th, 2024.
Blue River/Valemount to Golden
- Depart Blue River and stop for breakfast at Café Mt. Robson (included) while you enjoy views of the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies (weather permitting)
- Continue the journey through the Rockies as you cross from British Columbia to Alberta
- Stop at the town of Jasper to enjoy some free time to check out local shops
- Travel the scenic Icefields Parkway, one of the top 5 drives in the world
- Stop at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre with time to get lunch, and an option to book the Ice Explorer Glacier Adventure (additional cost)
- Visit either Peyto Lake or Bow Lake on your way to Golden (time permitting)
- Check into your hotel in Golden with free time for dinner and to enjoy the hotel amenities
- Option to go out to the local pub Rockwater Grill and Bar and/or Whitetooth Brewing Co
Golden - Banff - Golden
- Depart Golden after breakfast in your hotel (included)
- Visit Emerald Lake in the Yoho National Park before travelling to the iconic town of Banff, the heart of the Canadian Rockies
- Drive to Lake Louise and enjoy a lakeside walk with a picnic lunch (own expense)
- Visit Moraine Lake (seasonal)
- Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Banff, including Banff Avenue, Bow Falls and the famed Banff Springs Hotel
- Free time to explore the restaurants and shops on Banff Avenue
- Option to go up the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for a wonderful sightseeing experience (additional cost)
- Return to Golden, enjoy the hotel amenities and join your tour group for outdoor games and fun with your fellow travellers
Golden to Vancouver
- Enjoy breakfast at your hotel (included)
- Adventure in the Golden Skybridge* (admission included), home to Canada’s highest suspension bridges
- Start the journey back to Vancouver
- Stop at Craigellachie, the Last Spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway
- Stop for lunch in Kamloops (own expense), and then back at Hope
- Return to Vancouver at approximately 8:00 pm
*Please note: The Golden Skybridge will be closed for the season on October 14, 2024. The Rockies Summer Explorer tour departing on October 12, 2024 will be affected, and will include an activity of similar value instead of the Golden Skybridge.
FAQs
Are the lakes blue in the Rockies? Can I swim in them?
The lakes in the Rockies are famous for their stunning turquoise colours during summer. Usually, around April, the ice and snow in them starts to melt, and the glacial water reflects off mineral sediments, creating the mesmerizing blue and green colours.
If you want to swim in the lakes, you will likely need to wait until June, although it may vary every year. Bow Lake is a great spot to do a “Polar Bear swim”, and also the designated areas in Lake Louise. Keep in mind that even during the warmer season, mountain lakes can remain chilly. Remember to ask your guide for local guidelines and safety measures for swimming in specific areas.
What is the Golden Skybridge?
The Golden Skybridge is a thrilling attraction, and a highlight of this tour. Located in Golden, British Columbia, it is home to Canada’s highest suspension bridges, providing an amazing experience for adventure seekers.
The Skybridge consists of two suspension bridges at 426 feet (130 m) above a picturesque canyon, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Rocky and Purcell mountain ranges, as well as the stunning Columbia Valley. As you walk across these suspension bridges, you’ll be immersed in the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The Golden Skybridge adventure allows guests to witness awe-inspiring scenery while enjoying an adrenaline-pumping activity, making it a memorable and unique part of our Rockies Summer Explorer tour.
How are the rooms arranged on this tour?
Accommodations on our West Trek tours are arranged to maximize comfort and convenience. Our prices are typically based on quad occupancy, which means four people of the same sex in a room, sharing two beds.
If you would rather not share a bed, we offer options to upgrade to double occupancy (own bed in a shared room of 2 people), or single occupancy (own room). You can also book a Private Room in groups of 2-4 friends, regardless of gender.
Am I guaranteed to see wildlife like bears?
While the Rockies are home to diverse wildlife, including bears, it is important to note that wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed. The region’s animals are wild and move freely in their natural habitat. However, rest assured that this tour includes plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing, especially during the scenic drives and stops.
Keep your eyes peeled, be patient, and you might be rewarded with sightings of bears, elk, mountain goats, and other fascinating creatures! Remember to observe from a safe distance and follow the guidance of your experienced tour guide to respect the animals and their environment.
What is the temperature like in the Rockies?
The temperature in the Rockies can vary abruptly, especially considering the elevation changes during the tour. In the summer months, daytime temperatures generally range from comfortable to warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, evenings and early mornings can be cooler, so we highly recommend bringing clothing layers.
Be prepared for potential weather changes, especially in mountain regions. It’s advised to check the weather forecast closer to your travel date and pack accordingly, ensuring you have both comfortable, lightweight clothing and warmer, waterproof layers.
The 2025 Earlybird Promotion only applies to 2025 tour departures. Valid until December 31, 2024.
This offer is not available online. Please contact us to redeem your discount.
Contact us and save up to $80 CAD*!
Duration
Size
Student
Quad
Triple
Double
Single
Highlights
- Explore the iconic town of Banff and get to try out optional activities
- Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Rockies, glaciers, rivers, and lakes along the Icefields Parkway
- Walk along Canada’s highest suspension bridges at the Golden Skybridge
- Immerse yourself in the Canadian Rockies for an unforgettable adventure with new & old friends
- Explore the natural wonders of Yoho National Park, including the epic blue lakes
Inclusions
What to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light clothing layers – weather may vary sudddenly
- Light rainjacket
- Sunscreen & sunglasses
- Hat (optional)
- Small backpack
- Reusable water bottle
- 2 pieces of ID