Coho - Explore Banff & Jasper National Parks

We kick off our adventure by heading east through the Fraser Valley, where we’ll stop for a short walk through a lush West Coast rainforest to the stunning Bridal Veil Falls. We’ll then pass through the town of Hope, famous for its stunning landscapes and as the filming location for parts of the iconic Rambo movie. Next, we’ll journey through the Coastal Mountains, exploring the serene beauty of Lightning Lake in EC Manning Provincial Park before heading to Penticton for some paddleboarding (seasonal) on the tranquil waters of Skaha Lake. Finally, we’ll settle in for the evening in Kelowna, where we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner at Kekuli Café, known for its Indigenous-inspired cuisine.

Meal Inclusions: Indigenous-inspired dinner in Kelowna

Accommodation: Hi Kelowna

Today we start our day with a visit to Frind Estate Winery bakery in Kelowna, where you can enjoy delicious pastries while taking in stunning views of the vineyards and Okanagan Lake. Keep an eye out—you might even spot the legendary Ogopogo monster!!! From there, we embark on an action-packed journey, crossing three mountain ranges and traveling through four national parks en route to Banff National Park. In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to kayak on the pristine Lake Revelstoke, paddling through crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering mountains. We’ll then stop at Craigellachie, where the historic Last Spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, marking a pivotal moment in Canadian history. Afterward, we’ll continue our journey through breathtaking scenery, crossing the Kicking Horse Pass into Alberta, and finish the tour at the iconic Lake Louise, surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains.

Meal Inclusions: Morning beverage and pastry at Frind Estate Winery bakery Optional Activity: Kayaking on Lake Revelstoke Accommodation: HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre

It’s time to visit those iconic blue lakes you’ve seen on postcards! Lake Louise is calling, along with Moraine Lake (seasonal), before we journey along the Icefields Parkway, offering breathtaking views of jagged peaks, glaciers, raging rivers, and more turquoise lakes. Keep an eye out for Canadian wildlife like bears, moose, and elk as we stop at the stunning Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake (a favorite of ours), and Mistaya Canyon. Finally, we’ll arrive at our rustic wilderness hostel, where you can relax with a dip and sauna, enjoy a campfire under the stars, and share a home-cooked potluck dinner with fellow travelers.

Accommodation: HI Wilderness Hostel Optional Meal: Home-style group dinner

Today, we explore Jasper National Park! First, we’ll stop at Big Bend Lookout for a breathtaking view of the North Saskatchewan River Valley. Then, we’ll head to the Columbia Icefield, the largest icefield in the Rocky Mountains at 325 square kilometres, where we’ll hike to the toe of the Athabasca Glacier (conditions permitting). Afterward, we’ll stop at Sunwapta Falls (parking permitting), a stunning pair of waterfalls surrounded by rugged wilderness. Next, we’ll visit Athabasca Falls, a powerful waterfall known for its dramatic beauty. Our journey concludes in Banff, where you’ll enjoy dinner and say goodbye to your new lifelong friends.

Accommodation: HI Banff Alpine Centre

Meal Inclusions: Dinner at Cougar Pete’s Restaurant and Lookout