Active West Coast & Canadian Rockies

G Adventures · 16 days

3.6

20 Reviews

Duration

16 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Basic

Physical Rating

Demanding

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

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.

Includes

Activities

Your Welcome Moment: 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
Embark on a scenic bike ride in Banff
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

Accommodation

Hotel (1 nt) and participation camping (14 nts).

14 breakfasts, 11 lunches, 10 dinners

Transport

Private vehicle, ferry, and hiking.

Group Leader

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Highlights

Visit Waterton National Park
Explore Banff National Park
Climb up Fairview Mountain
Embark on a scenic bike ride in Banff
Enjoy hikes along the Juan de Fuca trail
Paddle around Lake Cowichan
Ride the Whistler gondola to hike the High Note trail

Trip Details

Duration

16 days

Transportation

Private vehicle, ferry, and hiking.

Guide Language

English

Starts

Calgary, Canada

Finishes

Vancouver, Canada

Accommodations

Basic

Travel Style

Active, Budget

Physical Rating

Demanding

Itinerary

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.

Meals included: Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: 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.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: 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.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.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.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: 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.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: 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 Banff. Once here you will enjoy a bike ride around town to explore. Drive to camp in the evening.

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Activity - Rent trail bikes for 3hrs to discover Banff and the surrounding areas. Opt for the easy going cycle paths and trails in town to explore the commercial and residential streets of the downtown area or take in the stunning scenery found on the legacy trail a 23 km trail of paved pathway and parkway from the Bow Valley Parkway to the Banff Park East Gate. Riding along the vermillion lakes just north of town. Thrill seekers can also choose from one of the many mountain biking trails in the area.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 spend some time in town before heading back to camp for dinner as a group.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: 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.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: 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.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: 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.

Meals included: Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery as you take a ferry ride from Vancouver to Victoria on Vancouver Island.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.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.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: 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.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: 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 to Squamish via Parksville

In the morning after breakfast the group will transfer to Cowichan Bay where you'll go out on a kayak excursion. In the afternoon, leave Cowichan Bay behind and head to the ferry port in Nanaimo to hop on a ferry to Horseshoe Bay drive along the Sea to Sky highway up to Squamish. In the evening set up camp and relax in the outdoors.

Meals included: Breakfast,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: 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.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.Accommodation - Mountain Fun Campground

Day 13: Squamish

Today the group will 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, refueling after the day's adventure.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: 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.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch

Exclusive inclusions: 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: Day trip to Whistler from Squamish

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 before returning to Squamish. 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.

Meals included: Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner

Exclusive inclusions: 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.Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.Accommodation - Mountain Fun Campground

Day 16: Whistler/Vancouver

Travel from Whistler to Vancouver. Tours ends on arrival in Vancouver.

Meals included: Breakfast

Exclusive inclusions: Transport - Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.

Exclusions

Flights to and from origin and destinations
Airport transfers (unless otherwise stated)
Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
Recommended gratuities/tipping
Optional activities/tours
Personal expenses
Travel insurance
Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.

Important Information

Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We will do our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling.

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.

Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.

From
AUD $6399

AUD $5,439

(Tour only)

Offer ends 01 Apr, 2026 Per Person Standard

Duration: 16 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Demanding

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.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 16 Jun 2026

View Map

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating

Excellent

4.5

Guide

Excellent

4.5

Itinerary

Excellent

4.5

Accommodations

Excellent

4.5

Transportation

Excellent

4.5

Tour Operator

Excellent

4.5

Food

Excellent

4.5

Renja B.

Traveled, September 2023

09/23/2023

everythen really well organized, easy informations so everyone could understand it and we had the best guides (raphaelle at the trip through the Rockies and Mathieu in Vancouver and surroundings).

4.0

Richard P.

Traveled, August 2023

09/13/2023

Well organised holidays get a lot out of it. Nice CEOs.

Tour Operator

G Adventures, founded in 1990 by Bruce Poon Tip, is a global adventure travel company specializing in small-group tours that emphasize authentic, sustainable, and culturally immersive experiences. Originally launched as GAP Adventures (“Great Adventure People”), the company pioneered the concept of community-driven travel by offering affordable trips that connect travelers with local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Today, G Adventures operates in more than 100 countries, offering a wide range of itineraries across themes such as active adventures, wildlife, wellness, family, and National Geographic–partnered tours, while maintaining a strong commitment to responsible tourism and social enterprise through its Planeterra Foundation.

In Business Since 1990

Book Now