Compare Heli-Hiking in the Canadian Rockies by ElderTreks vs Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta Small Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1: Banff, to Bobbie Burns Lodge

Make your own way to the Brewster Transportation Center (Banff Bus Depot) for the 2.5 hour drive to the Bobbie Burns Helipad. The bus departs Banff at 7:30 am. The drive takes us west toward Golden, BC, through the fabulous scenery of Banff and Yoho National Parks.

We travel over Kicking Horse Pass, site of the famous Spiral Tunnels, which minimized the steep grade for the rail lines of Canada's National Dream, the transcontinental railway, when it was heroically built in the late 1800s. From Golden, we head south through the Rocky Mountain Trench, with the Rockies to the east and the front ranges of the Columbia Mountains to the west. The Rocky Mountain Trench, down which flows the great Columbia River, is the boundary between the Columbias and the Rockies. One of earth's most dramatic landmarks, it's clearly visible from orbital space.

We arrive at the helipad for the quick, exhilarating flight to Bobbie Burns Lodge. Before settling into our rooms, we'll be outfitted with all the necessary hiking gear, get acquainted with helicopter safety procedures, then fly up for an afternoon of hiking in some of the world's most stunning mountains.

Late afternoon, we return to the lodge to relax before dinner. After dinner, you may choose to just relax by the fire with your fellow hikers or take a whirlpool soak or sauna. Overnight at the Bobbie Burns Lodge.

Days 2 - 3: Full days of heli-hiking

For those who want a warm up, there is a morning stretch class before the buffet breakfast. We then board our helicopter for a flight to your starting point for the days hiking.

Each group of hikers, accompanied by a guide, spends the day exploring the immense variety of landscapes in the Bobbie Burns, a winsome sub-range of the Columbias. The Bobbie Burns abounds with distinctive glaciers, turquoise lakes and airy mountain ridges. And everywhere, from every vantage point, vast, heart-stirring views.

We'll enjoy a picnic lunch (or, on special days, a grand high mountain barbecue) amidst stunning, utterly unspoiled scenery. After a memorable day, we fly back to the lodge, where snacks, beverages, a good book, or the sauna and restful outdoor whirlpool await. One of the charms of family-style dining is getting to know our fellow guests as we savor the chef's creation of the evening. Overnight at the Bobbie Burns Lodge.

Day 4: Hiking the Bugaboos

Today, fly by Helicopter to Grizzly Ridge and trek along the ridge to the Bugaboo Lodge with a picnic lunch on the way. Arrive at your new destination to find your luggage and another remote, exclusive lodge tucked away in the Purcell Ranges.

We follow a similar routine at the Bugaboos where snacks and beverages await after a memorable day of hiking. There's time to relax before dinner; read a good book, relax in the sauna or outdoor whirlpool. Dinner is served family style with the chance to get to know the Bugaboo staff and other guests.

Before retiring, enjoy conversation by the fire, take a look at the Bugaboo's fine history exhibits, make a visit to the lodge's retail shop, set up an appointment with the masseuse (at additional cost) or just enjoy peace and quiet on the deck as the alpen glow settles on the great monoliths above. Overnight at the Bugaboo Lodge.

Days 5 - 6: Full days of heli-hiking

Optional morning stretch class or sleep in. Enjoy a helicopter journey to your starting point for your days hiking. Each group of hikers, accompanied by a guide, will spend the day exploring the immense variety of landscapes in the Bugaboos.

We'll enjoy a picnic lunch (or, perhaps, a grand high mountain barbecue) amidst stunning, utterly unspoiled scenery (there is not much chance of seeing other hikers, despite the Bugaboos' world fame). After another spectacular day, we fly back to the lodge for another gourmet meal. Overnight at the Bugaboo Lodge.

Day 7: Bugaboo Helipad, to Banff or Calgary Airport

After breakfast, take your final helicopter ride from the lodge to the Bugaboo Helipad. From the helipad, we take a bus journey through Kootenay and Banff National Parks en route to Banff and Calgary. A box lunch is provided.

The bus arrives in Banff at approx 1:30pm., or for anyone going directly to Calgary airport, arrival is approximately 3:30/4:00 pm.

Day 1: Welcome to Banff

After your arrival at Calgary Airport, you are transferred to the Castle in the Rockies, your historic mountain resort in Banff. Built in the distinctive Canadian Château style, it is one of the earliest examples of the country’s grand railway hotels. Tonight, join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Dinner.

Day 2: Exploring Banff

Connect with nature as you join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with your First Nations Cree Iroquois Local Expert. Embark on a guided walk in the Boreal forest and discover the Indigenous world of plant medicines. Learn about the historical and modern day uses of plants and listen to fascinating stories about the First Nations culture.Explore Banff with a few fun optionals. Choose to play nine holes of golf. Alternatively, take the Banff gondola up Sulphur Mountain and go on a hike. Another option is to take a guided horseback ride.

Day 3: A Trip to Lake Louise Relaxed Start

Explore Lake Louise with Insight Choice. Choose a journey on the sightseeing gondola and look out for local wildlife as you enjoy a hike surrounded by panoramic views. Alternatively, join your Travel Director for a relaxed stroll along iconic Lake Louise and put paint to canvas to create your own masterpiece. Indulge in a delicious lunch before returning to Banff and enjoying the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 4: Lakes, Mountains and Glaciers Relaxed Start

Start your day with a visit to the glacier-fed Moraine Lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Take a moment to absorb the view of the stunning turquoise lake hidden among steep mountains, waterfalls, and rock piles. Your journey continues on the Icefields Parkway, one of the most beautiful drives on the planet. Admire the dramatic scenery of the Rockies with plenty of photo opportunities. Later, a warm welcome greets you at the country’s first and only glacier-view resort where you will savour a Canadian inspired, locally sourced dinner. After your meal take advantage of the long daylight hours and set out for a private visit to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored walkway above the Sunwapta Valley. Once night falls, step out on your hotel’s viewing deck and take your chances at stargazing undisturbed by light pollution.

Day 5: Glacier Adventure

Before other travellers arrive, venture onto the Athabasca Glacier in a massive Ice Explorer for your special visit. Join your Local Expert and walk on the frozen flow of ice. Discover the beauty and immensity of the glacier as you learn about the history and geology of the region. Continue along the magnificent Icefields Parkway and arrive at Jasper National Park with its soothing mineral hot springs, colourful meadows and majestic mountains.

Day 6: Exploring Jasper

Join your Travel Director for an informative walk on the trails of Maligne Canyon, the deepest gorge in the Jasper National Park. Weather permitting, embark on a narrated cruise across the serene waters of Maligne Lake and stop at Spirit Island, one of the most photographed sites in the Canadian Rockies.

Day 7: Relaxing in Kananaskis Relaxed Start

Enjoy your scenic drive to Kananaskis and your upscale hotel nestled in the wilderness. Relax at the resort surrounded by mountainous beauty and modern comforts. Tonight, come together with your fellow travellers for a festive Celebration Dinner and toast to your wonderful trip in the Canadian Rockies.

Day 8: Farewell Canada

After breakfast, you are transferred to Calgary Airport where your journey comes to an end. Arrival time at airport is approximately 12:00.