ROCKIES WAPITI TOUR
Overview
On this one-way tour from Banff to Vancouver, you will experience the best of the Rockies and Whistler on an unforgettable adventure. Starting in Lake Louise, visit the breathtaking Moraine Lake (seasonal) before travelling along the iconic Icefields Parkway, where towering peaks, glaciers, and turquoise lakes await. Explore Banff and Jasper National Parks with opportunities for hiking, wildlife spotting, and discovering Indigenous cultures. Then, make your way to Whistler, a world-renowned resort town and host of the 2010 Winter Olympics, where adventure and stunning mountain scenery go hand in hand.
Itinerary
Banff/Lake Louise to Icefields Parkway
- Previous day – evening: Get picked up in Banff and enjoy an overnight stay only a short distance from Lake Louise
- Start the day off with a visit to Lake Louise, with its dazzling blue waters, followed by a stop to see the stunning Moraine Lake (seasonal)
- Travel along the legendary Icefields Parkway, a route lined with towering peaks, glaciers, rushing rivers, and even more breathtaking lakes
- Watch for wildlife along the way, including bears, elk, and moose, as we stop at Crowfoot Glacier, the unforgettable Peyto Lake, and Mistaya Canyon
- Settle in for the night at a cozy wilderness hostel, where you can unwind in the sauna, take a refreshing dip, gather around the campfire, or enjoy a shared potluck meal with fellow travelers (optional participation)
Icefields Parkway to Banff
- Discover the beauty of Jasper National Park, home to towering mountains, pristine rivers, and abundant wildlife
- Take in sweeping views of the North Saskatchewan River Valley from Big Bend Lookout, a breathtaking vantage point
- Visit the massive Columbia Icefield, spanning 325 square kilometres, and hike to the toe of the Athabasca Glacier (conditions permitting)
- Stop at Sunwapta Falls (parking permitting), where rushing water cascades through a dramatic alpine setting
- Marvel at the raw power of Athabasca Falls, one of the most striking waterfalls in the Rockies
- End the day in Banff, a charming mountain town surrounded by rugged peaks and endless adventure, and enjoy a group dinner at Cougar Pete’s Restaurant
- Check into your hostel for 2 nights
Banff
- Enjoy a full day to explore Banff on your own, the ultimate mountain playground in the heart of the Rockies
- Hike scenic trails, take in panoramic views, or simply soak up the alpine atmosphere
- Discover Banff’s lively dining scene, from cozy cafés to craft breweries and local restaurants
- For an extra thrill, try optional activities like whitewater rafting, canoeing, or mountain biking (additional cost, available to book on tour)
- Not sure what to do? Your guide is happy to help you plan the perfect adventure!
- Enjoy a second overnight stay in Banff with the option to explore the vibrant nightlife
Banff to Revelstoke
- It’s time to bid farewell to the Rockies, but the journey continues with a day filled with jaw-dropping scenery and exciting adventures
- Stop at Takakkaw Falls (seasonal), where water tumbles from incredible heights, and admire the serene beauty of Emerald Lake
- Marvel at the Natural Bridge, a striking rock formation shaped by rushing waters over thousands of years
- Arrive in Revelstoke, a vibrant mountain town where adventure awaits
- Soar through the treetops at the Aerial Adventure Park or experience the thrill of The Pipe Mountain Coaster (optional)
- Unwind in the evening, sharing stories and soaking in the alpine atmosphere
Revelstoke to Whistler
- Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Denny’s, and say goodbye to Revelstoke as we journey west toward the legendary mountain town of Whistler
- Travel through awe-inspiring landscapes, passing dense forests, soaring peaks, and pristine alpine lakes
- Catch glimpses of wildlife and take in the changing scenery as we make our way toward the Coast Mountains
- Arrive in Whistler, an adventure hub and former host of the 2010 Winter Olympics
- Settle in and explore the pedestrian-friendly village, filled with shops, cafes, and outdoor charm
- Cap off the night with Whistler’s lively night scene, from cozy pubs to energetic nightclubs
Whistler to Vancouver
- Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Cheaky’s Café before travelling from Whistler to Vancouver, a dynamic coastal city framed by ocean and mountains
- Drive along the breathtaking Sea to Sky Highway, one of the world’s most scenic routes
- Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre to learn about the traditions and stories of Indigenous communities (admission included)
- Pass by the Stawamus Chief, an awe-inspiring granite monolith popular with rock climbers
- Stop at Brandywine Falls, where water tumbles 230 feet into a rugged canyon below
- Take in the beauty of Shannon Falls, cascading dramatically down its rocky face
- Follow the coastline along Burrard Inlet, with sweeping views of the city and surrounding peaks
- Arrive in Vancouver, where our unforgettable adventure comes to an end. Please note that no accommodation is included for this evening. We recommend not booking any onward travel for this day to allow flexibility in case of traffic or weather delays.
FAQs
What type of accommodation is this tour based on?
All night stays of this tour are in mixed-gender hostel dormitory rooms, chosen for their affordability, great facilities, and social atmosphere.
Female-only dorm rooms can be requested, and while it can usually be accommodated, availability cannot be guaranteed.
If you require private accommodation, please contact Moose Network for alternative options. However, please note that no alternatives are available for the Icefield Parkway overnight stay.
Why choose a one-way tour from Banff to Vancouver?
A one-way Banff to Vancouver tour is a great option for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring Western Canada without retracing their steps. Instead of looping back to Banff or Calgary, you’ll experience the stunning transition from the Rocky Mountains to the lush coastal landscapes of British Columbia. This route allows you to see more of Canada’s diverse scenery while ending your adventure in the vibrant city of Vancouver.
The Wapiti tour begins in Banff, with the nearest airport being Calgary International Airport (YYC), about a 1.5-hour drive away. It’s an ideal choice if you’re continuing your travels westward after the tour, whether flying out of Vancouver International Airport (YVR), hopping on a cruise to Alaska, or exploring Vancouver Island.
Will I be traveling with the same group for the entire tour?
The Wapiti Tour makes up the final six days of the 8-day Caribou Tour, and it is also included in several combination tour options. Some of your fellow travelers may join or leave the tour in Banff at different times. This creates a dynamic group environment where you’ll have the chance to meet and connect with even more like-minded adventurers along the way!
What is the best time of year to travel on this tour?
This tour runs from May to October, and each season offers a different experience!
In Low Season (May and October), you’ll enjoy fewer crowds and the best value, though the weather can be cooler and some sites may be closed. In Peak Season (June to September), everything is open, the weather is more predictable, and the famous turquoise lakes are at their most vibrant—but expect more visitors at popular locations. If seeing Moraine Lake and Takakkaw Falls is a priority, be sure to choose a departure between June and September.
Duration
Size
Starting from*
Highlights
- Marvel at the turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (seasonal)
- Cozy up at a rustic wilderness hostel in the heart of the stunning Icefields Parkway
- Discover the majestic summits and picturesque charm of Banff
- Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty and outdoor adventures of Revelstoke
- Explore the vibrant village and stunning mountains of Whistler, a world-class resort
- Discover Indigenous heritage at the Squamish Lil’Wat Cultural Centre
- Catch a glimpse of Canada’s wildlife – they’re often elusive, but we’ll keep watch!
Inclusions
6 nights accommodation in mixed-gender, hostel dorm- Coach transportation from Banff to Vancouver
- Professional, fun & knowledgeable tour guide
- 2 breakfasts & 1 dinner
- Admission to Revelstoke Aerial Park & Mountain Coaster
Admission to Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre- Campfire experience
- Scenic sightseeing stops along the way
- All park passes & fees
- Discounted optional activities on tour
6 nights accommodation in mixed-gender, hostel dorm
Coach transportation from Banff to Vancouver
Professional, fun & knowledgeable tour guide 
Scenic sightseeing stops along the way
All park passes & fees
Discounted optional activities on tourWhat to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Rain/Windproof jacket
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Reusable water bottle
- Camera – don’t miss the stunning views!
- Cash for optional activites
