Private 7-Day Small-Group Tour of the Canadian Rockies and National Parks with Lodging

Meet agnes at noon on day 1, start a private 7-day small-group tour, and enjoy lodge-based comfort across canadas national parks.

Plan includes Banff, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, the Icefields Parkway, and robson, delivering scenic views and access to the worlds highest peaks without long bus rides.

whats included: private guiding, pre-booked lodging, daily breakfast, park entries, and a pace that adapts to your group while you meet your guide and keep comfort at the center.

Permitting and park tickets are handled in advance, permitting smooth entry to trails and lakes, with a thoughtfully tuned schedule that gives you ample time for photo stops and easy walks.

In winter, the route highlights warm refuges and snow-dusted scenery; in other seasons, expect relaxed drives, flexible dining, and economical options that preserve high comfort and true ease without compromising the experience.

Optional 1-night extensions are available if you want to adjust the trip length, with add-ons near canadas highest viewpoints or along the Icefields Parkway.

We partner with vetted lodgings to meet strict requirements for cleanliness and consistency, so you sleep well and rejoin the group refreshed for the next leg of the route.

Compared with other formats, this setup is more economical than many similar options, especially when lodging is pre-booked and group size stays small.

Private 7-Day Small-Group Tour in the Canadian Rockies with Lodging (Banff)

Book this private 7-day Banff tour with lodging to secure a comfortable hotel base, inclusive transportation between stops, and a steady pace that suits a couple or a group of friends. You’ll enjoy multiple scenic exchanges each day, easy paths, and evenings in cozy town settings after daybreak adventures.

The plan blends iconic lakes, lush meadows, high passes, and canyon viewpoints with thoughtful downtime. You’ll find reliable wifi at hotel lobbies and most lounges, plenty of space for gear, and a balance between guided moments and free time for personal discovery.

• Included: accommodations in Banff-area hotel rooms (2-person or flexible arrangements), daily breakfast, and transport between stops.
• Included: park entry fees, an experienced guide, and interpretive commentary at viewpoint stops.
• Included: lunch on most full days and wifi access on the coach and at lodging.
• Equipment and comfort: refillable water bottles, water refill stations, and space to cover gear and personal items.
• Flexibility: tent and glamping add-ons are available in limited spots for guests seeking a different vibe.
• Extras: agnes, our guide, shares local tips and photo-friendly spots to maximize your time in the mountains.

1. Day 1 – Arrive in Banff, meet your guide at a tourhubs location, check into a comfortable hotel, and stroll along Banff Ave to set the tone for the week. Night views from local lookouts reveal the highest peaks in soft light.
2. Day 2 – Morning at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise to photograph turquoise waters and surrounding mount scenery. Lunch is included before an afternoon ride to a canyon overlook; unwind at the hotel with city-facing views and a quiet night.
3. Day 3 – Icefields Parkway cruise to the Columbia Icefield, with a Glacier Explorer option for a short float on a glacier-fed pool. Return via several photo stops; dinner options in Banff Town Centre.
4. Day 4 – Yoho National Park day: Emerald Lake, natural stone bridges, and a short walk through lush forest. A midday lunch break supports a relaxed pace, then a loop through scenic canyons before returning to the hotel.
5. Day 5 – Johnston Canyon and nearby viewpoints offer a balance of easy trails and premium vistas. Afternoon free time lets you explore local shops or a farmers’ market; a light dinner nearby rounds out the day.
6. Day 6 – Adventure day with a mix of lakeside time and a gentle hike; optional float on a quiet waterway for a refreshed perspective. Use the afternoon for a spa visit, shopping, or a second round of short walks before a final Banff night in town.
7. Day 7 – Departure after breakfast; your guide coordinates convenient transfers to the airport or to connecting travel hubs for onward plans, including easy access from major gateways such as Seattle-area connections.

Seasonal note: summer brings long days for extra sightseeing, while autumn reveals brilliant foliage colors near the highest passes. Pack layers, a hat to cover your head from sun, and comfortable shoes for uneven trails. Bring a refillable bottle to stay refreshed between stops, and a camera or smartphone ready for lakeside reflections.

Getting there and back: the tour uses seamless transportation between stops and can be coordinated with arrivals around the Banff area or via tourhubs in Calgary or nearby airports. For guests arriving from Seattle, frequent flight options connect to western Canada with minimal layovers, making the start of your adventure smooth.

Why this style works: a private small-group format keeps momentum intact while allowing flexible pacing, frequent photo breaks, and personal space for rest. The lodging choice keeps nightly comfort high, so you can recover fully after each day’s discoveries and head into the next morning with energy.

Inclusions: Lodging, Meals, Transportation, and Park Passes

Book this 7-day private small-group package to lock in lodging, meals, transport, and park passes from day one.

Lodging covers six nights in a curated mix of alpine lodges, cozy inns, and a city-base near Vancouver for one night. Rooms feature twin or queen beds, private baths, and inviting lounges for post-day reflections. Each property offers reliable wifi so you can share moments from the rock and ice, while easy access to short walks let you ease into the wilderness mindset. The route favors canadas canadas wilderness with stops that optimize proximity to falls, viewpoints, and wildlife pockets, including chances to spot bighorn sheep and other species. To keep things simple on budget, we provide budget-friendly options without compromising comfort or safety. The path along yellowhead and thomson corridors balances driving time with opportunities to savor autumn colors and lake reflections.

Meals include daily breakfast and six dinners, plus practical snacks for hikers. Dietary needs are accommodated with advance notice, and we tailor menus to highlight local produce from alpine regions. On longer driving days, expect prepared picnics or light, quick options so you don’t miss a moment of exploration. If you prefer a lighter footprint, we can arrange simple, satisfying alternatives that travel well, keeping you fueled for walks and optional canoe moments on calm waters.

Transportation uses a private, comfortable 6–7-seat vehicle with climate control and onboard wifi. Your driver-guide handles routing, so you can focus on the scenery and your fellow travelers. Driving times between major stops run about 2–3 hours, with built-in photo breaks and short walks at viewpoints along the way. A compact pincher-style itinerary sleeve keeps day-by-day notes at hand, making the size of the group easy to manage and the schedule predictable. This setup supports flexible detours to catch a sunrise over a rock-face or a quick look at a wildlife species along the route.

Park passes and entry fees are included for the main Canada’s national parks on the itinerary–Banff, Yoho, and Jasper–plus access to the surrounding wilderness gateways. You won’t worry about separate tickets or permits; all Parks Canada passes cover entry for the group across the trip. The package also arranges guided experiences or canoe options on select lakes, where available, to enrich your adventure with calm-water discovery and views of Athabasca Falls and other iconic falls. With these passes in hand, you can explore trailheads, boardwalks, and scenic overlooks at your own pace, from city starts in Vancouver to backcountry moments that feel truly alpine.

7-Day Itinerary Highlights: Banff, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Icefields Parkway

Recommendation: Book a sunrise Moraine Lake visit on Day 3 to secure reflections and avoid crowds.

Day 1: Banff city base. Choose a hotel in town and enjoy a 60-minute Bow River walk, then stroll Banff Ave for coffee, shops, and a relaxed dinner scene. Visitors appreciate the compact city vibe and easy access to the gateway trails, with several hotels within a short walk of the action.

Day 2: Lake louise approach. Depart early for lake louise, walk the shoreline for 45–60 minutes, and consider a canoe on the turquoise water or a ride to a summit view nearby. For a longer option, tackle part of the Plain of Six Glaciers trail (2–3 hours) depending on weather. Note parking can fill quickly, so use the shuttle or start before dawn; this keeps you on a suitable pace for the week and makes a note of the alpine feel.

Day 3: Moraine Lake highlights. Arrive at opening to avoid crowds, take the Rockpile Trail (about 30 minutes) for the main vista, then continue to Consolation Lakes on a 2–3 hour loop. The veil of mist often adds drama, and the towering peaks reflect in the water. Maybe arrange a ranger-led walk for wildlife and geology insights; this offers opportunities-truly for photography and learning.

Day 4: Icefields Parkway core. Drive Banff to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway with frequent stops for photo ops. Peyto Lake overlook rewards a short walk (15–20 minutes) to a turquoise pool framed by cliffs; Bow Summit offers a higher viewpoint. If weather and policy permit, ride the Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier for a hands-on ice walk (about 60 minutes). Overnight in Jasper or plan a shorter drive back toward Banff for a lighter day the next morning.

Day 5: Jasper area options. Extend your day with a Maligne Lake cruise to Spirit Island or a short stroll around Maligne Canyon, then head back toward the parkway for a scenic return to Banff by late afternoon. This segment suits a budget approach with mid-range hotels and the possibility of enlarged parking at popular stops on weekends, plus easy walks near the lakes.

Day 6: Optional canadas-side extension. Consider a side trip to waterton Lakes National Park or a quick hop to Vancouver for a city break; if you stay in the Rockies, enjoy easy walks and a sunset over the peaks. This part helps you have a balanced pace between nature and city life, with flexible options to match weather and energy levels.

Day 7: Final wrap and departure. Choose a short loop near lake louise or Banff to finish, note the weather, and plan your departure. Make note of park policy and ensure your booking is confirmed; enjoy a last coffee near a monument or viewpoint, and depart with memories of the alpine scenery and the many natural moments you had to enjoy the trip.

Group Size, Guide Ratio, and Safety Protocols

Limit group size to 6 guests per guide to ensure equal attention, a comfortable pace, and an enlarged safety margin on all days. This arrangement serves both solo travelers and visitors; solo travelers join a small, cohesive group, while staying free to opt for quieter moments if desired. Visitors know this setup is known for accommodating the largest parks on the route, covering iconic viewpoints of falls and towering peaks, and offering a hike to marvel at the vistas. The schedule minimizes long drives from Vancouver and other start points while allowing evenings for dinners and restful stays at comfortable lodges; rooms are available for solo travelers or twin-share setups if you prefer company, and this approach has been refined over years to serve both first-time visitors and returning guests. You may wonder at the vistas along the route.

• Group size and guide ratio: One primary guide for up to six visitors; a secondary assistant may join on longer drives or peak-season days to keep the pace even and the group safe.
• Safety protocols: Pre-trip health checks, daily briefings, and a buddy system. Guides carry a satellite messenger, a first-aid kit, emergency contact cards, and a vehicle-equipped emergency kit; all vehicles have seat belts, water, snacks, and basic weather gear.
• Trail and wildlife safety: Hikes are paced to match the group, with options for easier or more challenging routes. Stay on marked paths; maintain distance from wildlife; store food securely in provided containers at provincial sites.
• Gear and packing: Provide a packing list with layers, waterproof shell, hat and gloves, and sturdy boots. Include a light layer for evenings, a compact rain cover, and traction devices for icefields if conditions warrant; pack a daypack with water and sunscreen.
• Dinners and lodging: Dinners highlight local flavors; lodging stays are comfortable with twin-share options for those who prefer company. Meals are coordinated to sync with hiking days and driving routes, with leisure evenings at the same lodges.
• Flexibility and additions: A 3-day add-on can be joined if you extend your stay, enabling deeper exploration of Icefields and other vistas; optional drives to lesser-known overlooks are offered where feasible.
• Meet points and communication: Clear daily briefings cover where to meet, the next day’s drives and hikes, and how to reach meeting points. Guides provide updates if weather forces plan changes.

What to Pack and Terrain Readiness for Rocky Mountain Trails

Your first action is to pack a layered system and a refillable water bottle for every day on the trail. Start with a compact, waterproof shell, a warm midlayer, and breathable base layers, plus sturdy, waterproof hiking boots. Include two pairs of socks, a lightweight hat, and gloves for cool mornings, and keep a small first-aid kit and a compact rain cover in the top pocket of your pack. Your goal is comfort for long climbs and dry feet for afternoon scrambles, and there are musts you should not skip.

Terrain readiness means planning for altitude, variable weather, and uneven surface. Choose trails that match your fitness level and plan pacing to enjoy scenery without rushed steps. Carry a map and compass as backups, a charged phone with offline maps, and a headlamp for early starts or late returns. If you use trekking poles, pack them and practice a comfortable grip before starting the tour; this helps with stability on rocky sections and snow patches you may encounter along the route.

Food strategy centers on plenty of energy-dense options. For meals on trail, pack breakfasts and lunches like oatmeal, granola bars, peanut butter, and compact sandwiches; plan dinners at your lodging each night. Keep a few high-energy snacks for the afternoon push, and use a refillable bottle or hydration reservoir, refilling at pre-approved sources or at your lodging when needed. Coordinate with your group to have enough meals for each person and avoid waste. These choices make the day smoother and keep everyone fueled for the next climb.

Safety and lodging: store all scents and food in a bear-safe container or inside the vehicle when not in your rooms; your group should be accompanied by a guide on hikes for safety and route choices. Pre-booked lodging in Alberta ensures reliable rooms, showers, and dining after each adventure. Prior to visit, review park rules and plan for a relaxing afternoon or evening in town, whether you prefer british-style inns or western lodges along the route. If you pass through Chinatown districts in larger towns, you can stock up on snacks or small supplies at local stores. Your vehicle should stay in a designated area next to the lodging and be attended by a person who stays with it when you head out. With this approach, you gain comfort and confidence for the next adventure, and the plan has been refined for your group’s pace.

Booking Terms: Pricing, Deposits, and Cancellation Policy

Book early to secure your preferred lodging and dates. Prices have been updated and are per person, varying by the size of your private group, with both single and double occupancy options for this 7-day itinerary that visits scenic destinations across the Canadian Rockies. The rate includes lodging, breakfasts, most dinners, park entries, and guiding, with destinations such as Kootenay and Yellowhead areas featured along the route.

To reserve a space, place a 25% deposit at booking. The balance is due 45 days before departure. We accept credit cards (3% processing fee) or bank transfer. Your deposit and payments secure your seat with the operator. This structure works for both individuals and groups, ensuring the dining and lodging preferences are locked in.

Cancellation policy: Cancellations 45 days or more before the start date receive a full refund of amounts paid, minus a small admin fee. Cancellations 30–44 days before departure receive a 50% refund. Cancellations within 29 days of departure are not refundable. If the operator must cancel for any reason, you may continue on alternate dates or receive a full refund.

What’s included, what’s not: The price covers lodging for all nights, breakfasts, most dinners, and guided experiences across the Thompson District and routes through Kootenay and Yellowhead, including transportation between destinations. It also includes park passes and local permits required for the included explorations. Flights, international travel, and personal expenses are not included; optional dinners or activities can be added by request. Wildlife species may be observed; your guide will prioritize safety and conservation.

Weather can swing from cool mornings to warm afternoons; pack layers and a hooded jacket. We suggest comfortable walking shoes, a breathable rain shell, and sun protection. The style of the trip blends comfortable lodging with immersive experiences, so you can enjoy the scenic views and direct access to summits and trails in mount country.

Next steps: after you confirm, you will receive a detailed confirmation with a guest list by person, plus maps of the Kootenay region and surrounding park zones. If you have lodging size preferences or special requests for dinners or room configurations, tell us. If weather requires route adjustments, we will continue with the best available alternates to keep the schedule on track.