Canyoning half day - Heart Creek Canyon (beginner level)

Banff , Canada

Canyoning half day - Heart Creek Canyon (beginner level)

Active

(130 reviews)

4h - 5h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Looking to try Canyoning for the first time? Then this is the trip for you! An easy approach, an ideal location to learn rappelling, and amazing scenery all make this trip the perfect choice for your first canyoning trip. Heart Creek Canyon is also our closest trip to the townsites of Banff & Canmore (10 minute drive from Canmore, 30 min drive from Banff). Upper Heart Canyon provides a perfect location to learn and develop your rope rappelling skills. Introductory short rappels allow you to ease into rappelling and increase in length as you progress down the canyon, finally culminating with an exciting 70-80ft+ wet waterfall rappel and slide (optional: it is possible to hike around the lower falls).

Available options

Heart Creek Canyon 10:30am

Duration: 4 hours: Normal tour takes approximately 4-5 hours

Heart Creek Canyon 12:00pm

Duration: 4 hours: Normal trip duration is approximately 4 - 5 hours

Heart Creek Canyon 9:00am

Duration: 5 hours: Trip Car to car

Heart Creek Canyon 1:30pm

Duration: 4 hours: Normal duration is approximately 4 - 5 hours

What's included

Wetsuits

Rappelling Equipment

Professional guide

Helmet

Neoprene socks/booties

Harness

Rappelling Instruction/clinic

Detailed itinerary

After meeting your guides and other participants at the staging area in the Heart Creek Trail parking lot, a 30 - 45 min hike will bring you to the top of both the Canyon sections, and the start of your canyon adventure. Everyone suits up and in order to ensure safety your guides will go thru a mandatory rappel and rope safety clinic. There are a total of 5 rappels, interspersed with some scrambling and hiking. The upper canyon is the easier section and can be dry later on in the summer. This gives everyone the opportunity to ease into the rappelling. The last rappel on the lower canyon section is always wet (it can be considered optional it is not required to exit the canyon, a hike around is available).

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN FR

Written guide

DE EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

75 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

55 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

You must bring a good pair of outdoor shoes with a good tread! Trail running shoes or light hiking shoes work best. you will be required to hike for about one hour to get to the top of the canyon and the same shoes you hike up in will go into the canyon and they will get wet. Tennis shoes, water shoes, Crocs, urban footwear, and sandals are not permitted due to safety concerns. We also recommend bringing a second pair of dry shoes or sandals to change into after the trip. These can be left in your vehicle

Due to the active nature of this trip we require all participants to be at least 12 years of age. Participants do not require any previous rope or rappelling experience, they must though be relatively comfortable with heights

The hike to the top of the canyon takes about an hour potentially a bit longer including stops and breaks. The majority of the hike is very beginner and family friendly and straight forward with only very minimal incline. Towards the end there are two short but very steep sections. We take our time for both of these.

Please note that we go rain or sunshine, so please prepare accordingly. Unless on the very rare occasion due to potential safety concerns we may cancel or postpone, we do go when it is raining. This specific canyon is not prone to floods and our thick wetsuits will keep you warm even on cold wet days, so please dress accordingly!

The meeting locations is at Heart Creek Trail just off the main highway located 17km east of the town site of Canmore (an approximately 10 min drive from Canmore) and 41km east of Banff (an approximately 25 minute drive from Banff). Look for the Heart Creek Trail exit on the right. There is ample parking available including space for large RV’s and or motorhomes.

All Alberta Parks in the Kananaksis area now require everyone to purchase a day pass when parked or entering any of their parks. This includes the Heart Creek trail parking area. A conservation pass (one per vehicle) for the Heart creek trail parking lot can be purchased online at: https://conservationpass.alberta.ca/kcp

All participants will be required to sign a waiver of liability prior to the activity. Unfortunately due to the legal requirements in Canada a liability waiver is required from every participant. Anyone who refuses to sign the waiver will not be permitted to participate.

It is a good idea to already change into your bathing suit before arriving at the meeting point. Rudimentary pit toilets do exist at the heart Creek Trailhead. We will “suit up” and change into the wet suits only at the end of the approximate 60 min hike top of the canyon right before we start the canyon. Please also keep in mind that there are no services such as food or drink at the staging area.

Meeting time is at 9:00 am, 10:30 am, 12:00 pm, and starting in July 1:30pm as well (Depending on the time of your booking) at the Heart Creek Trail Parking lot. (Please check the directions and map outlined below). Google Maps: https://maps.app.goo.gl/UiG3x3kLHAAruwu89

We provide all the necessary technical equipment including: High quality canyoning specific wetsuits Neoprene socks Helmet Rappelling Harness Dry bags to keep your cloths and possessions dry

Participants should bring the following items for this experience: Bathing-suit, towel, and potentially extra cloths to change into after the trip (which will remain in the vehicle) During summer months a t-shirt and shorts/pants are usually good enough to hike up in And extra pair of dry shoes or sandals to change into after the trip. Optional gear sometimes recommend in the early or late season (May & September) Rain jacket or windbreaker Marino or fleece under-layers, some under-layers for extra insulation (optional is not required).

After meeting your guides and other participants at the staging area at the Heart Creek Trail parking lot, a 60 min hike will bring you to the top of both the Canyon sections, and the start of your canyon adventure. Everyone suits up and in order to ensure safety your guides will go thru a mandatory rappel and rope safety clinic. There are a total of 5 rappels, interspersed with some slides, scrambling and hiking. The upper canyon is the easier section and can be dry in later summer months. This gives everyone the opportunity to ease into the rappelling. The last rappel and slides on the lower canyon section are always wet (a hike around is available).

Please note that due to high demand in the height of the summer (July & August) our pick up availability may be very limited, and if you have a vehicle we recommend that you meet us at the meeting location at Heart Creek. If you are traveling to the mountains without a vehicle we can usually provide pickup from Canmore. Please contact our office and we can arrange pick up from Blondies Cafe in Canmore the Travel Alberta visitor info Center in Canmore or the legacy Trail bus stop for the Banff/Canmore roam transit line three which provides public bus transport from Banff to Canmore approximately every 30 min

Meeting point

Meeting Point is at the Heart Creek Trail Parking Lot, at the exit to Lac Des Arcs approximately 17km east of Canmore AB. Please keep an eye our for our marked: "Bow Valley Canyon Tours " shuttle van.

About Banff

Banff is a resort town within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. Known for its stunning mountain landscapes, hot springs, and outdoor adventures, it's one of the most visited destinations in the Canadian Rockies. The town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and a charming mountain culture.

Top Attractions

Banff Gondola

The Banff Gondola takes visitors to the top of Sulphur Mountain for stunning views of the Canadian Rockies. The ride offers panoramic vistas and access to hiking trails and a restaurant.

Adventure 2-3 hours Moderate ($50-$60 CAD per adult)

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is one of the most famous and iconic lakes in the world. Known for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, it's a must-visit for hiking, photography, and relaxation.

Nature Half day to full day Free to visit, parking fees apply

Banff Upper Hot Springs

The Banff Upper Hot Springs offer a relaxing soak in natural mineral waters with stunning mountain views. The historic facility has been a popular attraction since the late 1800s.

Relaxation 1-2 hours Budget ($10-$15 CAD per adult)

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is another iconic turquoise lake in Banff National Park. Known for its stunning views and hiking trails, it's a popular spot for photography and outdoor activities.

Nature Half day to full day Free to visit, parking fees apply

Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon is a beautiful hiking trail that leads to stunning waterfalls. The trail is well-maintained and offers breathtaking views of the canyon and waterfalls.

Nature 2-3 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bison

Bison is a local delicacy, often served as steaks or burgers. It's lean, flavorful, and a sustainable choice.

Main course Gluten-free and paleo-friendly options available.

Poutine

A Canadian classic, poutine consists of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Banff offers many variations, including gourmet and vegetarian options.

Snack Vegetarian and vegan options available.

Elk

Elk is another local favorite, often served as steaks or in stews. It's lean, tender, and packed with flavor.

Main course Gluten-free and paleo-friendly options available.

Popular Activities

Hiking Mountain biking Whitewater rafting Rock climbing Skiing and snowboarding Soaking in hot springs Scenic gondola rides Picnicking by the lake

Best Time to Visit

June to August, December to March

Summer offers warm weather and ideal conditions for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Winter is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Crowds are highest during these peak seasons.

20-30°C (summer), -10-5°C (winter) 68-86°F (summer), 14-41°F (winter)

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, French
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

Mountain Time Zone (MT), GMT-7 (standard time), GMT-6 (daylight saving time)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Banff is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Calgary International Airport • 130 km (81 miles)

By train

Banff Station

By bus

Banff Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Roam Transit offers affordable and convenient bus services throughout Banff and the surrounding areas. Buses are frequent and well-connected.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Banff Taxi, Uber (limited availability)

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Banff Banff Springs Canmore

Day trips

Canmore

25 km (16 miles) • Half day to full day

Canmore is a charming town near Banff, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities. It's known for its hiking trails, local shops, and stunning mountain views.

Yoho National Park

56 km (35 miles) • Full day

Yoho National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Kootenay National Park

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

Kootenay National Park is another stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities. It's a great option for a full-day trip from Banff.

Festivals

Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival • October Banff Jazz and Blues Festival • August Banff International Snow Sculpting Competition • January

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking.
Consider purchasing a Parks Canada pass for unlimited entry to national parks and historic sites.
Dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly, especially in the mountains.
Book accommodations, activities, and restaurants in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Be aware of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk, and maintain a safe and non-intrusive distance.