Be mesmerised by the untouched wilderness

Discover the Canadian Rockies

Be dazzled by snow-capped peaks, glistening alpine lakes, limestone caves, unique wildlife, awe-inspiring views and a galore of outdoor adventures. Go hiking, skiing, canoeing, horseback riding, dog sledding, fly fishing, heli-hiking, mountain biking, rafting, or simply relax in hot springs. Discover an outdoor playground featuring untouched wilderness and one-of-a-kind experiences.

Where should you visit in the Canadian Rockies?

Spot weird and wonderful wildlife in the Rockies
© Northern BC Tourism/Ryan Dickie
Learn more about the fascinating culture of First Nations
© Northern BC Tourism/Ryan Dickie

Uncover the local secrets of the Canadian Rockies

With a size of 194,000 square kilometres, the Canadian Rockies span across the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia. In the heart of the Canadian Rockies, you will find Banff National Park. Banff is home to the world-famous and must-see Lake Louise. Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies and is home to the largest population of grizzly bears in all of North America.

A natural wonderland

Self-drive and conquer one of the most spectacular journeys on earth, Icefields Parkway. Or visit Yoho National Park and admire the massive Takakkaw Falls. Soak up the friendly Canadian vibes in Canmore or one of the other charming mountain towns. This part of the world is absolutely stunning year-round which means the travel opportunities are limitless.

A visit Maligne Lake is a must-do!
Admire Canadian wildlife in the Rockies
© Chris Amat

Discover the diversity

Made up of layered sedimentary rocks (shale and limestone), The Rockies are the largest mountain system in North America. Featuring diverse flora and fauna, from desert cacti to icefields. Home to wildlife such as grizzly bears, elk, moose, mule deer, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and wolves. It is no wonder the Rockies attracts visitors from all over the world.

Highlights of the Canadian Rockies

  • Jasper National Park
  • Banff National Park
  • Lake Louise
  • Icefields Parkways
  • Moraine Lake
  • Petyo Lake
  • Yoho National Park
  • Maligne Lake
  • Lake Minnewanka
  • Canmore
  • Athabasca Falls
  • The Columbia Icefield
Go cycling or mountain biking
© Tourism Whistler/ Justa Jeskova
Visit Bow River

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Rockies is during the summer months or the winter months. From mid-June to mid-September and November to March. However, we highly recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons for better value for money, fewer crowds and the best choice of accommodation. Therefore, the absolute best time to visit is between May and June or September and October. Contact us to find out more.

The best time to visit the Rockies is during the shoulder seasons
© Northern BC Tourism/Ryan Dickie
Would you like to spot grizzly bear? Spring is the best time to visit

Banff National Park

Be astounded by Canada's first national park. An unforgettable destination that attracts visitors from all over the world due to its breathtaking natural beauty and world-class activities. It is no wonder that Banff National Park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With a size of 6.641 square kilometres, it takes approximately three hours to drive through the park. However, you could spend weeks here and still not get bored. Before you arrive, be sure to arrange your Parks Canada Pass which gives you access to the park.

Renowned for being one of the world's most awe-inspiring mountain destinations, Banff can easily be reached by flying into Calgary International Airport. After you have arrived, it is approximately a two-hour drive from Calgary. Banff town is a quaint resort village and the perfect base to enjoy everything that is on offer in this part of the world.

Discover Lake Minnewanka in Banff
© Paul Zizka
Enjoy Banff, in every season
© Devaan Ingraham

Lake Louise

World-renowned for its green-blue sparkling water and soaring mountain backdrop, Lake Louise is a must-visit destination. Jaw-dropping, this glacier-fed lake is surrounded by snow-covered peaks, incredible mountain views and world-class hikes. In the summertime, paddle out by canoe or go ice skating in the wintertime. Year-round, Lake Louise is bursting with great activities.

Soak up the incredible views of Lake Louise in Banff
© Paul Zizka
Go hiking in Banff National Park
© Paul Zizka

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is a glacially fed lake in Banff National Park with a surface of 50 hectares. Moraine Lake is only half the size of Lake Louise but is not lacking in beauty. Surrounded by rugged mountains, plunging waterfalls, and picture-postcard-perfect views.

Moraine Lake is located 14 kilometres outside of Lake Louise Village and situated between the valley of the Ten Peaks in the Rockies. Renowned for its intense and spectacular colour, which intensifies during the summer as the glaciers melt.

You can reach the lake via The Parks Canada shuttle which operates from June until October. If you are coming by car, be aware the parking spots operate on a first-served basis and therefore you may need to wait awhile.

Kayak and discover Moraine Lake
© edward koorey
Canada luxury holidays: Stunning view of lake and trees and mountain from a balcony
Stay at accommodation overlooking Moraine Lake

Jasper National Park

Revel in the wonder of the largest national park in the Rockies. The World Heritage Listed, Jasper National Park is truly one-of-a-kind. Featuring the greatest population of grizzly bears and moose in the whole of North America, and the world-famous Columbia Icefield, it is a must-visit destination. Are you an outdoor enthusiast? Discover over 990 kilometres of hiking trails in the pure Canadian wilderness.

Spot mountain goats in Jasper National Park
Take a cruise on Maligne Lake

Icefields Parkway

Part of your Rockies adventure should definitely include the Icefields Parkway. Covering an area of 200 square kilometres, this unforgettable journey connects Lake Louise in Banff with Jasper National Park. Along the way, discover the natural treasures found on this 232-kilometre stretch of road. From Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, the Glacier Skywalk, Athabasca and much more. Are you ready to conquer the Icefields Parkway? Contact us now to start planning your dream Canadian adventure.

Adore the wildlife found in this spectacular part of the world
© Ivars Krutainis
Admire the natural beauty of the Icefields Parkway

Other attractions in the Rocky Mountains

With so much on offer, the choices are endless in the Rockies. Whether you want to kayak on glacier-fed Maligne Lake, discover Johnston Canyon or hike to the summit of Mount Rundle, the Rockies are waiting to be discovered. For the ultimate trip through the Rockies, hop on board and experience The Rocky Mountaineer train journey.

Canmore

Located approximately 81 kilometres west of Calgary is the charming town of Canmore. Famous for its magnificent scenery, mountain sports, and friendly locals. It's an ideal base to discover Banff and its surroundings. Kananaskis is also a great destination to soak up the laid-back Canadian lifestyle.

A highway passing a blue lake, green forest and snow-capped mountain ranges
Conquer the Trans-Canada Highway
© Lacey Gilmour
Spot grizzly bears in Jasper National Park

Yoho National Park

On the western slopes of the Canadian Rockies, you will find Yoho National Park. Known for its geologic treasures, wonderful wildlife, and awe-inspiring landscapes. Yoho National Park is managed by Parks Canada and is bursting with things to do and see. Featuring dramatic wilderness, Emerald Lake, Wapta Falls, Takakkaw Falls and much more.

Marvel at the emerald waters of Yoho National Park
Kootenay National Park is also part of the Canadian Rockies
© Destination BC/Steve Ogle

Glacier National Park

If you are on an adventurous road trip and would like to continue through to the USA, Glacier National Park is located in the Rocky Mountains on the border of Canada. A beautiful destination featuring mountain lakes, alpine meadows, glaciers, and white mountain peaks.

The best way to explore the park is via the scenic mountain road, the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. With a length of 80 kilometres, this road is not for the faint-hearted and takes approximately two hours to drive. Logan Pass is the highlight as the highest point along the way!

A cottage on the edge of a forest near Glacier National Park
Stay at unique accommodation in the Rocky Mountains
© Little America
Two people hiking in Glacier National Park
Discover the natural beauty of Glacier National Park
© TravelEssence

Where to stay?

Make your trip extra special by experiencing a unique stay from our extensive collection of hand-selected accommodations in the Canadian Rockies and beyond. Your travel specialist will match you with accommodation that suits your wants and needs. A journey where your accommodation is an experience in itself.

Enjoy a range of winter activities nearby your accommodation in the Canadian Rockies
© Tourism Whistler/ Justa Jeskova
Stay at a luxurious lodge in the middle of pure nature

Discover more

Why book with us?

  • Well-organised holiday, designed just for you
  • Small-scale accommodations run by friendly local hosts
  • Carefully recommended activities based on your interests
  • A travel tempo and driving distances that match your needs
  • Ingrained sustainability in all facets of your holiday
  • 30 years of experience in the travel industry
  • Peace of mind with a local network in North America and a 24/7 emergency number

Let's design your holiday together

We'll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke holiday with your pace, your interests, and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you'll receive a mapped-out itinerary from us - but the process isn't done until you are 100% satisfied. We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you. Get in touch to get started now.

One step closer to your dream trip

More is possible than you may think

You probably already have ideas for your holiday to the United States and Canada. Nature tours through the Rocky Mountains, spotting orcas near the San Juan Islands, or exploring the streets of San Francisco on the iconic cable car?

For the best local tips and advice, visit one of our online presentations. Meet our travel specialists and have all of your questions answered.