Itinerary Details
MT Sobek: Canadian Rockies Hiking
Day 1 Arrive in Banff with Time to Explore
Arrive at your own pace in the vibrant mountain town of Banff, just a scenic 2-hour drive or shuttle from Calgary. Your comfortable accommodation is reserved for the night, and the rest of the day is yours to explore. Stroll local trails, unwind in the hot springs, browse shops and museums, or enjoy Banff's lively dining scene. No meals or activities are scheduled today. Your guides will meet the group tomorrow morning to kick off the adventure!
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
Day 2 Follow Trails to Lake Agnes Tea House
1.5-hour private van transfer
6.5 miles/3-4 hours hiking with 1,560' elevation gain and loss
A short walk from Lake Louise takes you to the start of today's hike. With its clear waters, lovely views, and idyllic setting, Lake Agnes provides a postcard-perfect image of the Canadian Rockies. You'll have the extra treat of visiting the Lake Agnes Tea House, which since 1905 has been serving backcountry travelers a menu of teas and snacks in the high alpine. While you'll enjoy your picnic lunch along a quieter part of Lake Agnes' shores, there will be time for those who want to indulge in a Tea House treat.
Accommodation: Banff Caribou Lodge
(B, L, D)
Day 3 Trek a High Alpine Paradise to Helen Lake in Banff National Park
2.5-hour private van transfer
8.6 miles/4 hours hiking with 1,800' elevation gain and loss
Start your day by visiting some of the most gorgeous lakes in the Canadian Rockies. Famous Peyto Lake wows with its turquoise blue waters, which at the right angle, resemble the head of a wolf. Your second detour is to Bow Lake, at the foot of Crowfoot Mountain and Glacier. Just across the world-famous Icefields Parkway from Bow Lake sits your trail to Helen Lake. With boots laced and cameras poised, begin your journey through spectacular subalpine wilderness, where colorful wildflowers dot vibrant green meadows and glacier-fed streams trickle under towering, jagged peaks. The 360-degree views seem endless, so take your time to truly soak in the splendor of this Rocky Mountain paradise. For those looking for an extra challenge, your guides will lead you to the summit of Cirque Shoulder for jaw-dropping panoramas.
(B, L)
Day 4 Travel to Moraine Lake and Hike to Lake Annette in Banff National Park
2-hour private van transfer
7 miles/3-4 hours hiking with 1,300' elevation gain and loss
Irresistibly photogenic with its turquoise waters fed by glaciers and a phenomenal location at the base of the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is one of the most recognizable locations in the Canadian Rockies. Arriving early gets you the best opportunities for photos and soaking in the scenery. Continue to today's trailhead, where a less-frequented path winds through a valley of pine and spruce forest, later opening up to breathtaking views of Lake Annette, tucked beneath one of the most dramatic peaks of the Rockies, Mt. Temple. After a rewarding day on the trail, return to Banff for a delicious dinner with the group and a cozy night at the lodge.
(B, L, D)
Day 5 Hike to Paget Lookout & Sherbrooke Lake in Yoho National Park
2.5-hour private van transfer
4.5 miles/3-5 hours hiking with 1,700' elevation gain and loss
Today, cross the Continental Divide to explore its western slopes in Yoho National Park. Step onto a trail that begins in a lush, old growth forest and gradually climbs to traverse a rugged ridge offering unparalleled views of soaring peaks and ancient glaciers before reaching historic Paget Lookout, once used to spot forest fires. From there, follow the path to Sherbrooke Lake, a hidden gem of alpine waters and rocky shores set against the park's looming peaks, watching for wildlife along the way. After returning to Banff, gather for another hearty dinner, sharing stories and memories from the trail.
(B, L, D)
Day 6 Trek to the Foot of Stanley Glacier & Depart
1.5-hour private van transfer
5 miles/2-3 hours hiking with 1,200' elevation gain and loss
Head south into Kootenay National Park for a hike to Stanley Glacier. Considered one of the park's most spectacular trails, your hike to the base of Stanley Glacier rewards you with a diverse range of terrain. With an endless supply of geological treasures such as hanging valleys, ice caves, sheer cliffs, and towering peaks, these final miles together are the perfect culmination of an amazing exploration of the Canadian Rockies. Your trip concludes in Banff with a drop-off at the hotel.
(B, L)
