
Canada
Canada - Hiking and canoeing in the Rockies
Canada - Hiking and canoeing in the Rockies
Duration
14 days
Start/End
Calgary/Edmonton
Tour type
Group
Level
Moderate
Accommodation
Tent, hotel
Overview
In the first part you hike with your guide through the finest national parks of the Rocky Mountains and sleep in a tent under the stars. Then the wilderness adventure begins: after canoe training you paddle the Athabasca River for five days towards Edmonton – suitable for beginners too.
On this unique hiking and camping trip, you'll immerse yourself in the heart of the country's most famous national parks. For a week, you'll discover the most beautiful routes through the spectacular mountain scenery – carefully selected by your experienced guide. Turquoise lakes, rushing waterfalls, expansive valleys, and panoramic peaks await you. In the evenings, you'll enjoy the tranquility around the campfire, the starry sky over the Rockies, and the simple, authentic life in a tent. But that's not all: In the second part of the trip, your great wilderness adventure begins by canoe. For five days, you'll follow untamed rivers, glide through pristine landscapes, master small rapids, and set up camp on secluded banks. Just you, the group, the river, and the endless wilderness – you can hardly experience Canada more authentically. This trip combines the best of both worlds: unforgettable hikes, a true wilderness experience, and breathtaking natural scenery. An ideal blend of activity, adventure, and relaxation that lets you experience Western Canada in all its facets.
Tour Code
Tour language


German, English, FrenchItinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Calgary
Hotel
Welcome to Canada! After landing in Calgary, you will be picked up by the hotel shuttle. In the evening, you will meet your tour group and your guide for a welcome session and initial information about the upcoming tour.
Welcome to Calgary
Day 1
Hotel
Welcome to Canada! After landing in Calgary, you will be picked up by the hotel shuttle. In the evening, you will meet your tour group and your guide for a welcome session and initial information about the upcoming tour.
Day 2
Banff National Park
Tent
2-3 h
You'll reach Banff National Park via rolling hills and ranchland. Here you'll pitch your tent for the next two nights – right in the middle of the forest, with showers on site. After lunch, you'll set off on your first hike, perhaps along the shores of Lake Minnewanka or on one of the surrounding mountain trails. In the evening, a cozy dinner awaits you around a campfire.
Banff National Park
Day 2
Tent
2-3 h
You'll reach Banff National Park via rolling hills and ranchland. Here you'll pitch your tent for the next two nights – right in the middle of the forest, with showers on site. After lunch, you'll set off on your first hike, perhaps along the shores of Lake Minnewanka or on one of the surrounding mountain trails. In the evening, a cozy dinner awaits you around a campfire.
Day 3
Banff National Park
Tent
approx. 5–7 h / 7.5 km / 725 m elevation
Today you'll embark on an extended day hike in the mountains. Your guide knows some real insider tips – like a tour to a hidden mountain lake or even further up to the pass at 2,470 m. Afterwards, you can relax in the hot sulfur springs of Banff or stroll through the town's charming shops.
Banff National Park
Day 3
Tent
approx. 5–7 h / 7.5 km / 725 m elevation
Today you'll embark on an extended day hike in the mountains. Your guide knows some real insider tips – like a tour to a hidden mountain lake or even further up to the pass at 2,470 m. Afterwards, you can relax in the hot sulfur springs of Banff or stroll through the town's charming shops.
Day 4
Yoho National Park & Lake Louise
Tent
ca. 3–5 h / 3.5, 6 km or 15 km / 400-915 hm
You'll drive along the Trans-Canada Highway to the famous Lake Louise – postcard-perfect panorama included! Today, our guide will lead us on a short hike with a 400-meter climb to a historic teahouse on an alpine lake. Those who wish can continue hiking – about 15 km through the glacial valley "Plain of Six Glaciers" or to a nearby viewpoint. Overnight accommodation is at the nearby campsite with showers.
Yoho National Park & Lake Louise
Day 4
Tent
ca. 3–5 h / 3.5, 6 km or 15 km / 400-915 hm
You'll drive along the Trans-Canada Highway to the famous Lake Louise – postcard-perfect panorama included! Today, our guide will lead us on a short hike with a 400-meter climb to a historic teahouse on an alpine lake. Those who wish can continue hiking – about 15 km through the glacial valley "Plain of Six Glaciers" or to a nearby viewpoint. Overnight accommodation is at the nearby campsite with showers.
Day 5
Yoho National Park
Tent
approx. 6 h / 18 km / 880 m elevation
Today you have a choice: pure adrenaline on a whitewater rafting trip down the Kicking Horse River (approx. 5 hours of action!) or a high-alpine hike with your guide – for example, a long loop hike over two passes with spectacular views of the turquoise Emerald Lake. Of course, you can also discover the highlights in the valley – such as the Natural Bridge or the impressive Takakkaw Falls.
Yoho National Park
Day 5
Tent
approx. 6 h / 18 km / 880 m elevation
Today you have a choice: pure adrenaline on a whitewater rafting trip down the Kicking Horse River (approx. 5 hours of action!) or a high-alpine hike with your guide – for example, a long loop hike over two passes with spectacular views of the turquoise Emerald Lake. Of course, you can also discover the highlights in the valley – such as the Natural Bridge or the impressive Takakkaw Falls.
Day 6
Jasper National Park
Tent
approx. 2 hours
On your way to Jasper, you'll drive the breathtaking Icefields Parkway – photo stops included: Peyto Lake, Bow Summit, and more! A short hike along a ridge offers the best view of the Saskatchewan Glacier. You'll pitch your tent for three nights at a campground near Jasper.
Jasper National Park
Day 6
Tent
approx. 2 hours
On your way to Jasper, you'll drive the breathtaking Icefields Parkway – photo stops included: Peyto Lake, Bow Summit, and more! A short hike along a ridge offers the best view of the Saskatchewan Glacier. You'll pitch your tent for three nights at a campground near Jasper.
Day 7
Jasper National Park
Tent
approx. 2–6 hours
Today's excursion takes you to Maligne Lake. There, you can hike with your guide across alpine meadows up to an altitude of 2,160 meters. Those who are up for more can even reach the summit at 2,789 meters. Alternatives include a boat trip to the famous Spirit Island, a horseback ride, or a mountain bike tour.
Jasper National Park
Day 7
Tent
approx. 2–6 hours
Today's excursion takes you to Maligne Lake. There, you can hike with your guide across alpine meadows up to an altitude of 2,160 meters. Those who are up for more can even reach the summit at 2,789 meters. Alternatives include a boat trip to the famous Spirit Island, a horseback ride, or a mountain bike tour.
Day 8
Jasper National Park
Tent
approx. 3 h / 11 km / 335 m elevation
The Athabasca Falls and the surrounding gorge are among the top highlights. Your guide recommends a tour today at the Columbia Icefields, offering a magnificent view of the Athabasca Glacier.
Jasper National Park
Day 8
Tent
approx. 3 h / 11 km / 335 m elevation
The Athabasca Falls and the surrounding gorge are among the top highlights. Your guide recommends a tour today at the Columbia Icefields, offering a magnificent view of the Athabasca Glacier.
Day 9
Canoe Training & Preparation
Tent
In the morning, you'll hike through the spectacular Maligne Canyon – the gorge is up to 50 meters deep! Afterward, you'll travel to an idyllic lake in the foothills of the mountains, where you'll be prepared for the upcoming canoe trip. You'll learn paddling techniques, safety rules, and receive tips on equipment and camp life. The stretch of river is suitable for beginners, but caution is advised – the current, driftwood, and small rapids will keep you on your toes. Full board is included during the canoe trip.
Canoe Training & Preparation
Day 9
Tent
In the morning, you'll hike through the spectacular Maligne Canyon – the gorge is up to 50 meters deep! Afterward, you'll travel to an idyllic lake in the foothills of the mountains, where you'll be prepared for the upcoming canoe trip. You'll learn paddling techniques, safety rules, and receive tips on equipment and camp life. The stretch of river is suitable for beginners, but caution is advised – the current, driftwood, and small rapids will keep you on your toes. Full board is included during the canoe trip.
Days 10–12
Athabasca River - On the river
Tent
Paddling time daily approx. 5–6 hours
Your unnecessary luggage stays safely stowed away – and then you're off: For three days, you'll paddle down the Athabasca River with your teammate. You'll camp on sandbanks or at cozy spots along the riverbank. Depending on the water level, the pace will vary – sometimes faster, sometimes more leisurely – but always through pristine wilderness with chances of spotting moose, beavers, eagles, or even bears. And in the evening? Campfires, starry skies, and true wilderness romance.
Athabasca River - On the river
Days 10–12
Tent
Paddling time daily approx. 5–6 hours
Your unnecessary luggage stays safely stowed away – and then you're off: For three days, you'll paddle down the Athabasca River with your teammate. You'll camp on sandbanks or at cozy spots along the riverbank. Depending on the water level, the pace will vary – sometimes faster, sometimes more leisurely – but always through pristine wilderness with chances of spotting moose, beavers, eagles, or even bears. And in the evening? Campfires, starry skies, and true wilderness romance.
Day 13
Edmonton
Hotel
One last day on the water, and you'll have covered approximately 160 km by canoe. Afterwards, it's back to Edmonton by bus – arriving around 6:30 pm. Your hotel is located near the huge West Edmonton Mall – perfect for shopping, dining, or simply relaxing! This is where your tour officially ends.
Edmonton
Day 13
Hotel
One last day on the water, and you'll have covered approximately 160 km by canoe. Afterwards, it's back to Edmonton by bus – arriving around 6:30 pm. Your hotel is located near the huge West Edmonton Mall – perfect for shopping, dining, or simply relaxing! This is where your tour officially ends.
Day 14
Return flight from Edmonton
Today you will be taken to the airport. If you wish to continue your journey to Calgary tomorrow (Sunday), there is a free transfer – arrival at Calgary Airport is around 3:30 pm. If you would prefer to stay another night in Edmonton, we would be happy to assist you with booking.
Return flight from Edmonton
Day 14
Today you will be taken to the airport. If you wish to continue your journey to Calgary tomorrow (Sunday), there is a free transfer – arrival at Calgary Airport is around 3:30 pm. If you would prefer to stay another night in Edmonton, we would be happy to assist you with booking.
Services
What's included
2 nights' hotel accommodation in a double room including breakfast
11 nights in spacious 2-person tents
All meals during the canoe trip – from lunch on day 9 to lunch on day 13
Airport transfers and all transport in a 15-seater minibus
English and German or French-speaking guide (depending on the date)
5-day canoeing adventure with 2-person canoes, paddles, and life jackets
Waterproof dry bags
Complete camping equipment (except sleeping bag)
Rigid foam sleeping mat
Entrance to the national parks
Camping fees
Maximum 12 participants
What's not included
Individual travel to and from the destination (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
Personal equipment
Visa and vaccinations, if required
Tips
Meals and drinks not mentioned (you should budget approximately CAD 140 for this)
Optionally bookable: Whitewater rafting (approx. CAD 195)
Optionally bookable: Rental mountain bike (approx. CAD 65 per day)
Sleeping bag and Thermarest mattress
Character of the trip
Fitness
Moderate
Altitude
Gentle
Culture / nature
Pure nature
This trip is for active nature lovers who want to experience Canada in an authentic way. The hikes are easy to moderate and last several hours, without any alpine difficulties. You'll only hike with a light daypack; your main luggage will remain safely at the camp or hotel. An average level of fitness and a love of exercise are all you need. This 5-day wilderness canoeing adventure is also suitable for beginners. Basic paddling skills or some prior experience are helpful, but not essential – your guide will prepare you thoroughly. The route leads through pristine river landscapes with small rapids, gravel bars, and unspoiled banks. Working together as a team, you'll overcome all challenges and learn how to travel safely, respectfully, and sustainably in the wilderness. Overnight stays are primarily in tents – both in the national parks and during the canoe trip. Team spirit, flexibility, and an enjoyment of simple living in nature are essential. Helping with tent setup and camp activities is, of course, expected. The tour is characterized by adventure, physical activity, and intense nature experiences, without excessive technical demands. It is ideal for travelers who enjoy being active, love outdoor activities, and are willing to forgo some comfort for unique experiences.
Dates and prices
Group dates
Optional
Single tent supplement
€215.00
per person
Notes on the trip
Program adjustments depending on weather conditions
The safety of our participants is our top priority on our active tours. Since we often travel in alpine or remote regions, weather conditions such as strong winds, fog, persistent rain or snowfall, as well as other unforeseen circumstances, can affect the execution of the planned route. In such cases, our experienced local guide will react flexibly and adjust the route or program accordingly to ensure the safety of everyone involved. These decisions are always made in the best interests of all participants, so that the tour remains safe and as enjoyable as possible. Any claims for compensation are excluded in such cases.
Notice in accordance with EU Directive 2015/2302:
This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility.
