Active West Coast & Canadian Rockies

Canada

From £3,249

Take advantage of an adventure that will have you out hiking in both the Canadian Rockies and the coast of British Columbia on this 16-day tour from Calgary to Vancouver. Experience the Indigenous history, unforgettable landscapes, and lively cowboy culture of western Canada. Visit canyons, hike up mountains, come across alpine lakes, wander through Pacific rainforests, find yourself amid old growth forests, admire the emerald hue of Lake Louise, and witness stunning vistas. Explore a unique country and take advantage of endless opportunities to bond with other outdoor travelmates on this jam-packed journey.

Dates

Trip Overview
Trip Overview

Accommodation
Hotel (1 nt) and participation camping (14 nts).
Checklist
Camping:
- Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
- Sleeping bag and liner, 4 season
- Socks
- Thermal base layer
- Travel pillow
- Windproof rain gear

Cold Weather:
- Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
- Scarf
- Warm gloves
- Warm hat
- Warm layers

Documents:
- Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
- Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
- Passport (required) (With photocopies)
- Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
- Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)

Essentials:
- Binoculars (optional)
- Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
- Cash, credit and debit cards
- Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
- Ear plugs
- First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
- Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
- Fleece top/sweater
- Footwear
- Hat
- Locks for bags
- Long pants/jeans
- Moneybelt
- Outlet adapter
- Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
- Reusable water bottle
- Shirts/t-shirts
- Sleepwear
- Small travel towel
- Sunglasses
- Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
- Watch and alarm clock
- Waterproof backpack cover
- Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
- Hand sanitizer (required)
- Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
- Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
- Quick Covid Test/Antigen Test

NCUR:
- Antibacterial wipes/gel
- Binoculars (optional)
- Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
- Cash, credit and debit cards
- Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
- First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
- Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
- Fleece top/sweater
- Flight info (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
- Hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes
- Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)
- Insect repellent
- Insurance info (With photocopies)
- Long pants/jeans
- Passport (With photocopies)
- Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
- Pocketknife
- Quick-dry socks
- Required visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)
- Reusable water bottle
- Shirts/t-shirts
- Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
- Sleeping bag and liner, 4 season
- Slip-on sandals or shoes
- Small travel towel
- Sport/hiking sandals
- Sunblock
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat/bandana
- Swimwear
- Thermal base layer
- Thermal underwear
- Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
- Underwear
- Vouchers and pre-departure information
- Walking poles
- Warm gloves
- Warm hat
- Watch and alarm clock
- Waterproof backpack cover
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Windproof rain gear

Warm Weather:
- Sandals/flip-flops
- Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
- Sun hat/bandana
- Swimwear

Note: Please remember to bring mosquito spray and sunscreen on your adventure. Packing hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes is also very necessary.
Group Leader
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
Group Size Notes
Max 11.
Highlights
Visit Waterton National Park, Explore Banff National Park, Climb up Fairview Mountain, Embark on a scenic rafting trip down the Bow River, Enjoy hikes along the Juan de Fuca trail, Paddle around Lake Cowichan, Ride the Whistler gondola to hike the High Note trail
Introduction
Take advantage of an adventure that will have you out hiking in both the Canadian Rockies and the coast of British Columbia on this 16-day tour from Calgary to Vancouver. Experience the Indigenous history, unforgettable landscapes, and lively cowboy culture of western Canada. Visit canyons, hike up mountains, come across alpine lakes, wander through Pacific rainforests, find yourself amid old growth forests, admire the emerald hue of Lake Louise, and witness stunning vistas. Explore a unique country and take advantage of endless opportunities to bond with other outdoor travelmates on this jam-packed journey.
Meal Budget
Allow USD210-275 for meals not included.
Meals Included
13 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Optional Activities
Banff National Park of Canada
- Banff Gondola Ride to Sulphur Mountain (57.75-68.25CAD per person)

Banff
- Canoeing (57.75CAD per person)
- Cycling (36.75-93.45CAD per person)

Vancouver
- Gastown Visit (Free)
- Stanley Park Visit

Victoria
- Zodiac Whale Watching Cruise (173.60CAD per person)
- Bike Rental Sooke & Victoria

Sooke
- Sea Kayaking

Packing Note
Please remember to bring mosquito spray and sunscreen on your adventure. Packing hiking boots/sturdy walking shoes is also very necessary.
Start / Finish
Calgary to Vancouver
Transport
Private vehicle, ferry, and hiking.
What's Included
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Meeting - Meet Your CEO and Group. Trip to Waterton National Park. Hike along Bertha Lake trail. Visit to Red Rock Canyon. Hike the Crypt Lake or Carthew Summit trails. Hike the Ptarmigan Cirque trail. Burstall Pass trail. Banff National Park visit. Climb up Fairview Mountain. Rafting trip down the Bow River. Walk the Iceline trail in Yoho National Park. Flight from Calgary to Vancouver. Ferry ride from Vancouver to Sooke. Hiking in East Sooke Provincial Park. A trek along a portion of the Juan de Fuca trail. Cowichan Lake visit. Ferry from Nanaimo to Horseshoe Bay. A hike up The Stawamus Chief train. A visit to Garibaldi Provincial Park and a hike to the Elfin Lakes. A ride up the Whistler Gondola to hike the High Note trail. All transportation between destinations.
Itinerary

Route Overview

Day 1: Calgary/Waterton Lakes
Enjoy a morning welcome meeting with your CEO in Calgary before making the trip to Waterton National Park. Have a picnic lunch outside upon arrival to fuel up before setting out to hike the Bertha Lake trail. The switchbacks are tough, but the view of the valley below from the blue-green waters of Lake Bertha are well worth the climb. Visit Red Rock Canyon afterwards for a short walk into this geological phenomenon before setting up camp in the evening to chow down on dinner around the fire.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
The climb is steep, but worth it when you throw in the beautiful lake that is your destination. You’ll hike through sub-alpine forest climbing up 21 switchbacks and an old growth forest. The wide-open views of the Waterton Valley make the switchbacks more manageable on the way up. See the cascading water of Upper Bertha Falls as it runs down into the valley and then pick a spot along the lake to take in the glory of the breathtaking views and green-blue waters of the lake.
ACTIVITY
A stunning natural treasure just waiting to be explored, Red Rock Canyon is a must-see when in Waterton. Created through water erosion the canyon features an array of red and green coloured rocks, called argillite. The colours really pop amid the surrounding lush vegetation. The perfect place to relax, take some photos, and enjoy the great outdoors.
ACTIVITY
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
ACCOMMODATION
Waterton Townsite Campground
Day 2: Waterton Lakes
Wake up to the smell of pine, emerge from the tent, and have breakfast at camp. Get ready for a full day of hiking, lace up those boots, bring plenty of water and hit the trail. The group will be hiking either the Crypt Lake or Carthew summit trail, please note that there won't be enough time for both. You'll indulge in a picnic lunch halfway through and enjoy highlights like, roaring waterfalls, panoramic views, alpine bowls, and a 60ft tunnel through a mountain.
ACTIVITY
This hike is accessed through a local ferry system and begins with a gradual climb through shaded forests. Once the forest starts to thin out the strenuous part of the hike starts. After Burnt Rock Falls the hike climbs up onto the open alpine mountainside with incredible views. Depending on how far you go there may be some climbing up a steel ladder to access the 60ft tunnel through the mountain. Certainly not for the faint of heart or those who fear heights, although you will be rewarded with bird's eye views.
ACTIVITY
This 12 mile one-way day hike offers scenic views that will make you stop in your tracks. It’s one of the most popular hikes in Waterton Lakes National Park. Hike by four gorgeous lakes and take in views of Glacier National Park in Montana to the south as you work your way up to Carthew Summit.
ACCOMMODATION
Waterton Townsite Campground
Day 3: Waterton Lakes/Kananaskis
Enjoy a breakfast at camp before hopping into our private vehicle en route to Kananaskis. Nothing breaks up a road journey like snacks so we stop in Longview for some famous jerky to stock up. Fuel up with a picnic lunch before starting off on the first and only hike of today along the Ptarmigan Cirque trail. This steep trail offers spanning views of the surrounding mountains from an alpine meadow and also happens to be the highest paved pass in Canada. After finishing the hike, we head to our campsite, set up our tents, and have dinner together by the campfire.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
Ptarmigan Cirque trail is a short, but sweet hike that delivers loads of scenery. From coniferous forest, to high alpine meadows, mountains, and waterfalls this trail has it covered. It’s classified as moderate because of the elevation gain, although most of that occurs during the beginning making the rest feel relaxing in comparison. By the time you reach the meadows the pounding of your heart in your ears should have subsided.
ACCOMMODATION
Boulton Creek Campground
Day 4: Kananaskis
In the morning after breakfast at camp the group will head straight to the trailhead of Burstall Pass. Spend the entire day hiking this route with a picnic lunch about halfway through to get some more energy for the hike back down. The views along the pass are magnificent and offer plenty of opportunities for more adventurous rock scrambling and climbing. Back at camp in the evening share dinner as a group around the campfire.
ACTIVITY
A classic hike in Kananaskis, the trail moves past several marshy lakes and streams before climbing up into the alpine meadow and finishing in the high mountain pass with grand views of often snow covered mountain peaks in the background.
ACCOMMODATION
Boulton Creek Campground
Day 5: Kananaskis/Lake Louise
After another morning outdoors enjoying a breakfast at camp the group will travel to Lake Louise. It’s a day jam packed with activities that will get you out into the beautiful scenery of Lake Louise. In the morning you will drive from Kananaskis to Canmore. You have a raft tour (The Townie) on the Bow River in Canmore. Before the raft tour you can enjoy and visit Canmore. You can opt to have a picnic lunch in the town, and then embark on a scenic raft ride down the Bow River. Drive to camp in the evening.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
Travel down the Bow River past Bow Falls and encounter stunning views of Sleeping Buffalo, Cascade, and Tunnel Mountains. Search for water birds and wildflowers along the banks of the river. Keep your eyes peeled for other wildlife because you may get lucky. Experience the majesty of the Canadian Rockies from the comfort of your gentle boat tour. It’s fun to see these mountains from different angles and environments.
ACCOMMODATION
Lake Louise Campground
Day 6: Lake Louise
In the morning the group will leave Lake Louise and travel to Yoho National Park to hike the Iceline Trail there. It’s one of the best hikes in the park featuring unbeatable views of glacier peaks, rugged alpine landscapes, and cascading waterfalls. Eat a picnic lunch overlooking this beautiful landscape and then travel back to Lake Louise where you can opt to get some dinner in town before heading back to camp for the night.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
This signature day hike within Yoho National Park is the perfect way to get out into this rugged landscape and explore. Typically hiked as a loop, this trail is roughly 13 miles in length and gains about 3,000 ft in elevation. Some of the highlights include out of this world viewpoints of several glaciers, sweeping views of Yoho and Little Yoho Valleys, and plenty of waterfalls.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACCOMMODATION
Lake Louise Campground
Day 7: Lake Louise
In the morning set out on a hike up Mount Fairview. After, travel to Banff. Once here it’s an afternoon of freedom to enjoy any activity that catches your eye. There are canoe rentals, bike rentals, scenic raft tours, the Banff gondola, and of course exploring on your own two feet with another hike. But if hiking feels too daunting, know that you can spend your time as you choose in the majesty of this national park and still feel connected to the space. Enjoy a group dinner in Banff before heading back to Lake Louise to spend the night.
ACTIVITY
Fairview Mountain looks impossible to climb from the ground, but don’t worry it’s not nearly as harrowing as it looks. It sits on the edge of Lake Louise and offers hikers 1000 metres in elevation gain, but is very manageable for strong walkers. The best part? It doesn’t take long before the views become fantastic. As you climb you’ll be able to see Saddleback Mountain on one side and the rocky cliffs of Fairview on the other with a wide vista opening up before you staring down into the Bow Valley.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
Magnificent Banff—Canada’s first and most famous National Park. Rocky Mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, scenic drives, and a quaint mountain town. First, gaze in wonder, then immerse yourself in a park that has it all! Hike alongside picture-perfect mountains, glaciers, lakes, ice fields, canyons, and even hoodoos. Keep an eye out for wolves, grizzly bears, elk, and mountain lions. Banff’s blend of towering peaks and flower-strewn meadows make it a dream location to enjoy the great outdoors and mountain scenery.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACCOMMODATION
Lake Louise Campground
Day 8: Calgary to Vancouver
Leave Lake Louise in the morning to travel back to Calgary. Once you arrive, catch a flight from Calgary to Vancouver.
Arrive in Vancouver and enjoy free time to explore, check out Stanley Park and the Gastown neighbourhood filled with indie art galleries and souvenir shops before making your own way to your Vancouver accommodation Then, spend the night in this vibrant city.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT
Sit back, relax, and enjoy your short flight from Calgary to Vancouver.
ACCOMMODATION
Century Plaza Hotel & Spa
Day 9: Vancouver/Sooke
Catch the ferry to Victoria and Sooke on Vancouver Island. Eat a picnic lunch upon arrival before setting off into East Sooke Regional Park for some hiking. There’s a wide range of trails that have different levels of difficulty, but all of them will offer great views of the dramatic, rocky coastline, and lush Pacific rainforest filled with moss and green ferns. In the evening set up camp, get settled, and have dinner around a fire with the group.
ACTIVITY
Located west of Victoria, this park is one of the more spectacular in the region offering lots of challenging hikes in a wilderness setting. It spans miles and miles of protected coastal landscapes and offers trails through forest, marsh, and fields with beaches, rocky bays, and tide pools sprinkled in for exploring. The views are amazing and it’s definitely worth the challenge.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery as you take a ferry ride from Vancouver to Victoria and Sooke on Vancouver Island.
ACCOMMODATION
Sooke River Campground
Day 10: Sooke
After fuelling up with a camp breakfast the group will travel to the Juan de Fuca Strait from Sooke to embark on a hike along a section of the impressive trail. You’ll traverse miles of dense coastal forest and walk over beautiful pebble beaches, past gurgling waterfalls, slippery suspension bridges (watch your step) and the occasional pit of mud, but the dramatic views along this hike are well worth the effort. Transfer back to Sooke in the evening to rest up at camp and have dinner as a group.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
Covering 47 kilometres of dense coastal forest the Juan de Fuca trail is quite a feat for hikers. There are multiple trail options and it can be hiked in sections. It offers plenty of challenges with its rugged terrain featuring plenty of ups and downs and twists and turns. However, the adventure is worth it along this western edge of the world.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACCOMMODATION
Sooke River Campground
Day 11: Sooke
Today after breakfast at camp the day is yours to do as you wish. If you need a break from hiking consider one of the many optional activities available like, sea kayaking, whale watching, bicycle rentals, or a visit to the quaint town of Victoria for some people watching and cafe hopping.
FREE_TIME
Enjoy a free day to continue exploring Sooke and Victoria. Choose from optional activities like whale watching, sea kayaking, and renting a bicycle to make this day as memorable as possible.
ACCOMMODATION
Sooke River Campground
Day 12: Sooke/Parksville
In the morning after breakfast the group will transfer to Cowichan Valley where you'll go out on canoes and kayaks in Cowichan Bay. In the afternoon the group will travel to Parksville and walk in Rathtrevor Park along the beach. Feel the sand beneath your feet, hear the waves crashing, see old growth forests along the shoreline, and look for wildlife in the tide pools. In the evening set up camp and relax in the outdoors.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
A vast and beautiful Cowichan Bay is the best location for getting out onto the water. Explore this stunning environment, keeping your eyes on the lookout for wildlife and taking loads of photos. Please note this kayaking excursion is considered sea kayaking and the group will be in the ocean along Cowichan Bay.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
Rathtrevor park is located at the east end of the city of Parksville in British Columbia. It features a long stretch of sandy beach, a stand of old-growth Douglas fir trees and many available recreational activities to spruce up your visit. Enjoy the park's extensive trail network and try to spot wildlife like deer, racoons, squirrels, otters, and mink.
ACCOMMODATION
Riverbend Cottage & RV Resort
Day 13: Parksville/Squamish
Leave Parksville behind and head to the ferry port in Nanaimo to hop on a ferry to Horseshoe Bay. Once across the water, the group will drive to Squamish and hike The Stawamus Chief trail. This trail is one of the region’s best hikes and will take you up a steep incline to one of its three peaks. The views of the area surrounding Squamish, with the Howe Sound and the Garibaldi Park to the north are incredible. Enjoy a picnic lunch during your hike and in the evening relax at camp and have dinner as a group, refuelling after the day’s adventure.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
TRANSPORT
Get to the next spot on your route aboard a convenient and efficient ferry boat.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
This trail is known locally as, “The Chief” and happens to be one of North America’s largest granite monoliths. Home to the Sea to Sky Corridor this challenging hike begins with a quick incline kicking your heart into overdrive right off the bat. It’s divided into three summits and you can reach any of them from this one hiking trail. The views of the surrounding landscape make the climb well worth it.
ACCOMMODATION
Mountain Fun Campground
Day 14: Squamish
Another great day of hiking to discover captivating views and new heights (literally). Set out to trek the Elfin Lake trail in Garibaldi Provincial Park. Offering amazing views you’ll hike 11km to get to the lakes, but it’s certainly worth it. Go for a dip in the icy water, fill up your bottles in another pond reserved only for drinking water and have lunch as you admire those insane views. After hiking the 11km downhill you’ll be able to have dinner wherever you choose in Squamish before heading back to camp for the night.
ACTIVITY
The hike to Elfin lakes is 11km each way, but it’s not very steep and actually very scenic on the way up. The trail is wide and you are surrounded by towering mountains all the way up to the lakes. At the top it’s always a treat to dip into the icy waters. While the water is cold it is very clean and clear like a mirror. If you’re lucky you’ll see this on a sunny day with the massive mountains reflected in their surfaces.
ACCOMMODATION
Mountain Fun Campground
Day 15: Squamish/Whistler
In the morning the group will travel from Squamish to Whistler to take the Whistler Gondola up to the peak and hike the High Note trail. This trail offers hikers with the most scenic views of Cheakamus Lake with its vibrant aquamarine waters. The hike begins at the top of Whistler Mountain and takes you around the backside with views of the surrounding mountains and a descent through an alpine area. After the hike you’ll have free time to enjoy Whistler. Consider checking out the Squamish-Lil'wat Cultural Centre, the Cloudraker Skybridge, or find a cozy coffee shop in town. In the evening at camp you’ll have your final dinner as a group around the campfire.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
ACTIVITY
This hike provides you with incredible views of Black Tusk and the other mountain ranges. You’ll start this hike from the top of Whistler Mountain and walk 9.5km gaining 420m in elevation. Pass by alpine lakes and see Flute Summit in the distance and ending with a loop around Harmony Lake.
ACCOMMODATION
Mountain Fun Campground
Day 16: Whistler/Vancouver
Travel from Whistler to Vancouver. Tours ends on arrival in Vancouver.
TRANSPORT
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Pricing & Availability

Date From	Date To	Price
15 July 2023	30 July 2023	£3469
20 July 2023	04 August 2023	£3469
25 July 2023	09 August 2023	£3469
30 July 2023	14 August 2023	£3469
09 August 2023	24 August 2023	£3469
29 August 2023	13 September 2023	£3249
08 June 2024	23 June 2024	£3499
18 June 2024	03 July 2024	£3499
28 June 2024	13 July 2024	£3719
08 July 2024	23 July 2024	£3719
13 July 2024	28 July 2024	£3719
18 July 2024	02 August 2024	£3719
23 July 2024	07 August 2024	£3719
28 July 2024	12 August 2024	£3719
02 August 2024	17 August 2024	£3719
07 August 2024	22 August 2024	£3719
17 August 2024	01 September 2024	£3499
27 August 2024	11 September 2024	£3499
06 September 2024	21 September 2024	£3499

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