8-Day Caribou Rockies Tour: Banff, Icefields Parkway & Yoho Highlights
Drive the famed Icefields Parkway, paddle turquoise lakes and stand at the toe of the Athabasca Glacier on this 8-day Caribou Rockies tour. A balanced mix of iconic lookouts, short hikes, Indigenous cultural stops and small-town mountain life.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for alpine weather
Temperatures vary dramatically between valley mornings and glacier viewpoints—pack an insulated layer and waterproof shell.
Start early for photos
Arrive at Peyto or Moraine Lake at dawn to beat crowds and catch the lakes at their most vivid.
Respect wildlife distances
Stay with the group and the guide; use binoculars instead of approaching animals—especially elk and bears.
Pack light luggage
Tour restricts baggage to one main bag (max ~23kg) plus a daypack—overweight bags may incur fees or be refused.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Mistaya Canyon’s lower viewpoint—less busy and great for textured rock shots
- •Kekuli Café in Merritt for a local Indigenous bannock lunch stop
Wildlife
- •elk
- •mountain goat
Conservation Note
Parks Canada fees support trail maintenance and conservation—stay on designated trails, pack out waste, and follow food storage rules to reduce human-wildlife conflicts.
This route follows corridors shaped by the Canadian Pacific Railway and glacier action; the last spike of the CPR symbolically connected the nation and opened mountain passages to travel.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lake Louise shoreline
- • Peyto Lake viewpoint
- • Icefields Parkway pullouts near Athabasca Glacier
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Support and traction for rocky viewpoints and short trail sections.
Waterproof jacket and insulating mid-layerEssential
Protects against rain, wind, and cold at higher elevations.
Daypack with 2L waterEssential
Carry layers, snacks, and water for short walks and viewpoints.
Bear spray (carry and know how to use)
Recommended for independent hikes in bear country; follow guide advice on carriage and use.
Common Questions
What level of fitness do I need?
Moderate—most on-trail activity consists of short hikes (10–90 minutes) and viewpoint walks; you should be comfortable walking on uneven terrain.
Are park fees included?
Yes, national park fees are included in the tour price.
What accommodations are provided?
Seven nights in mixed-gender, dorm-style hostel rooms; some nights include hostel properties near national parks.
Can I store luggage on the bus?
Yes—one main bag goes in the bus cargo (max ~23kg) and one daypack travels with you in the passenger compartment.
When is the best time to go for good weather?
Summer offers the warmest conditions and full access to most stops; late spring and early fall can be quieter but variable weather can close high-elevation access.
Is bear spray mandatory?
Not mandatory on the tour, but guides may require it for independent hikes; it’s strongly recommended if you plan to hike away from group routes.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 days
Location
Banff, Alberta
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Good general fitness for repeated short hikes and long coach travel days; able to walk 1–3 miles on uneven terrain.
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