Places to Visit in the Rocky Mountains
When you picture the classic Canadian landscape in your head, The Rocky Mountains (also known as the Rockies) are just that. Alpine lakes, towering ice-capped peaks, heaps of wildlife and an endless supply of ways to get active. Whether you want to head to the national parks of Banff and Jasper or cruise along the Icefields Parkway whilst taking in the views of the staggering glaciers as you go by, have a read of some of our top picks for making your holiday in the Rocky Mountains truly memorable.
Jasper National Park
This really is ultimate Canada in a nutshell…lush alpine forests brimming with wildlife and rugged, rocky peaks above you fronted by colossal turquoise lakes. Fall asleep to the sounds of nature surrounding you before spending your days hiking in the biggest national park Canada has to offer. With waterfalls, hot springs and glaciers ready to be discovered, and wildlife such as moose, grizzly bears, cougars and eagles ready to be spotted, you really couldn’t ask for more. So fill your flask with coffee, lace up your boots and explore this wild landscape for yourself!
Banff National Park – Canmore and Lake Louise
Located on the southeast boundary of Banff National Park, the town of Canmore is the ultimate Rockies landscape. Quieter than nearby Banff, it’s the perfect spot to chill out and really get back to nature. You won’t be short of activities, we highly recommend doing something a little different, why not gear yourself up for a spot of caving, available to book locally. Discover the underground labyrinth created by glacial meltwaters for yourself, all under the supervision of an experienced guide.
A small village in Banff National Park so named for its famous turquoise lake, Lake Louise is not one to be missed. The area is the hiking capital of the nation, with trails suitable for every level of fitness, you can pick and choose according to your needs. Walk through alpine meadows, breathe in the fresh air and take in the vast, towering scenery surrounding the blue waters.
Waterton Lakes National Park
Located in southern Alberta, and bordering Montana in the U.S, Waterton Lakes National Park is quieter and less crowded than the likes of Banff and Jasper – but no less stunning! As the name suggests, you won’t be short on lakes in this landscape and they’re definitely a highlight. Try your hand at alpine fishing or hire a bike and cycle along one of many trails. Hiking is also a popular option, with routes ranging from short strolls to steeper trails spanning over several days. Whatever your choice, the surrounding mountainous scenery and top-notch wildlife spotting opportunities will provide the perfect backdrop to any Canada holiday.
Icefields Parkway
Now, you may be wondering how to get around the famous Rockies. Seen as one of the most stunning roads in the world, the Icefields Parkway highway links Lake Louise in Banff National Park with Jasper in Alberta. Surround yourself with rocky peaks, ancient glaciers, lush pine forests and vast emerald lakes as you cruise by, making sure you stop for that all-important viewpoint (and photo!). Around every turn you’ll be hit with a breath-taking view, so why not park up, put your boots on and get hiking?
The Rocky Mountaineer
A real treat, and widely considered as one of the world’s top train rides, a trip on the Rocky Mountaineer is a highlight of any holiday in Western Canada. Operating several routes across this area, marvel at the stunning scenery of the Rockies as you weave your way through vast landscapes of towering peaks and shimmering lakes. Aboard the train you’ll be served gourmet dishes inspired by the region as you sit back, relax and take it all in.
Terms and conditions
If you book a Rocky Mountaineer train package within your broader Canada itinerary with us the following Terms and Conditions will apply in addition or in replacement of our general Terms & Conditions:
Deposits
If your itinerary includes the Rocky Mountaineer we will require a non-refundable deposit of 20% at time of booking.
Cancellations
If you need to cancel your Rocky Mountaineer booking with us, the following conditions apply:
- From booking date to 46 days prior to departure on Rocky Mountaineer trip – 20% deposit is non-refundable.
- 45 days or less prior to departure of Rocky Mountaineer trip – 100% non-refundable.
- All bookings will be granted a 7-day grace period from the time of booking if outside of 61 days prior to the date of departure on the Rocky Mountaineer trip.
- Cancellations on or after the date of train departure will result in a cancellation fee of 100%.
- There will be no refund issued for any unused portion of a partial trip if a passenger does not complete all confirmed days of travel. If one or more guests in a group cancel, and if doing so changes the rate applicable for the remaining guests, those remaining guests must pay the additional cost to adjust to the applicable rate. The passenger(s) who has cancelled must pay the cancellation charges.
Changes by the customer
Changes by the client of train departure dates or routes are treated as cancellations and the same cancellation conditions apply as above.
A name change is considered a cancellation and not a change. We strongly recommend that clients acquire trip cancellation insurance.
No refunds will be made due to missed services beyond the control of Rocky Mountaineer or Rickshaw Travel.
Our Top Trips & Itineraries featuring the Rocky Mountains
