Winter Wonders of the Canadian Rockies – Private Tour
Experience the magic of Banff National Park in winter, where snow-dusted peaks, frozen lakes, and sparkling glaciers create a landscape straight out of a postcard.
Highlights include:
• Lake Louise – famous for its frozen turquoise waters, perfect for photos or a peaceful skate.
• Bow Lake & Peyto Lake – transformed into serene, snow-covered wonders.
• Abraham Lake – home to the world-famous frozen methane bubbles, a truly unique winter phenomenon.
• Crowfoot Glacier – a striking icy backdrop along the Icefields Parkway.
• Morant’s Curve – a classic viewpoint where trains and mountains create iconic Canadian imagery.
Traveling in your own private vehicle with a professional local guide, you’ll enjoy flexibility, personal attention, and plenty of time for photos at each stop. Warm stories, local insights, and breathtaking scenery combine to make this a once-in-a-lifetime winter adventure.
Pickup included
Transit/Sprinter 15 Pax Van<br/>Pickup included
Lake Louise is a stunning turquoise glacier-fed lake in Banff National Park, surrounded by towering peaks and overlooked by the Victoria Glacier. Famous worldwide for its beauty, it’s a year-round destination for hiking, canoeing, photography, and winter skating, offering one of the most iconic views in the Canadian Rockies.
Abraham Lake is a large, man-made reservoir on the North Saskatchewan River, just outside Banff National Park. It’s world-famous for its unique winter phenomenon: frozen methane bubbles trapped beneath the ice, creating surreal patterns. In summer, its turquoise waters and rugged mountain backdrop make it equally breathtaking.
Peyto Lake is one of Banff National Park’s most famous lakes, instantly recognizable for its bright turquoise color and unique wolf-head shape when viewed from above. Fed by glacial rock flour, its vibrant hue is most striking in summer, making it a must-see stop along the Icefields Parkway.
Crowfoot Glacier, located along the Icefields Parkway near Bow Lake, is a striking glacier that once resembled a three-toed crow’s foot. Due to melting, only two “toes” remain visible today. Easily admired from the roadside, it’s a scenic reminder of the Rockies’ glacial history and ongoing climate change.
Bow Lake is a serene glacier-fed lake along the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park. Known for its striking turquoise waters and views of Crowfoot Glacier and Bow Glacier Falls, it’s a peaceful stop for photography, picnics, and short walks, showcasing the raw beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Morant’s Curve, along the Bow Valley Parkway near Lake Louise, is a world-famous viewpoint where Canadian Pacific trains curve beside the turquoise Bow River, framed by towering Rockies. Named after CPR photographer Nicholas Morant, it’s a year-round stop for stunning photos and a timeless Banff postcard view.
Mt. Norquay Lookout, just above Banff townsite, offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in the Bow Valley. From this vantage point, you can see the town of Banff, the winding Bow River, Vermilion Lakes, and surrounding peaks. It’s a quick drive up Mt. Norquay Road and a favorite for sunrise and sunset photography.
Howse Pass, a hidden gem of Banff National Park, is a breathtaking mountain pass rising to about 1,530 meters (5,020 feet) along the Continental Divide between Alberta and British Columbia. Unlike the well-traveled Icefields Parkway, this historic route offers peace, solitude, and untouched wilderness. Once a vital Indigenous trading corridor, it later became a path for early fur traders and explorers, including Joseph Howse of the Hudson’s Bay Company, after whom the pass is named. Today, Howse Pass is recognized as a National Historic Site of Canada, celebrated for its cultural and historical importance. Surrounded by rugged peaks, dense forests, and wild valleys, it gives travelers a chance to connect with both nature and history. With sweeping views and a quiet atmosphere, it’s a place where the stories of Canada’s past meet the raw beauty of the Rockies, making it a meaningful stop for those seeking an authentic mountain experience.
The Icefields Parkway, often called one of the most beautiful drives in the world, stretches 230 kilometers (143 miles) through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, connecting Lake Louise in Banff National Park with Jasper National Park. This legendary highway winds past towering peaks, turquoise lakes, vast glaciers, and sweeping valleys, offering breathtaking scenery at every turn. Along the route, travelers encounter iconic landmarks such as Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Crowfoot Glacier, Athabasca Glacier, and the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest ice masses south of the Arctic. Wildlife sightings are common, with chances to see bears, elk, and mountain goats along the roadside. Open year-round, the parkway provides a completely different experience in each season, from snow-draped winter wonderlands to lush summer meadows. More than just a drive, the Icefields Parkway is an unforgettable journey into the heart of Canada’s most spectacular wilderness.
Canmore is a picturesque town nestled in the Canadian Rockies, offering stunning mountain views and a vibrant outdoor lifestyle. Known for its proximity to Banff National Park, it's a haven for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers seeking a blend of rugged wilderness and charming small-town hospitality.
Two stunning turquoise lakes surrounded by forest and offering easy hiking trails. The views are breathtaking, especially in the summer and fall.
A challenging but rewarding hike with a steep ascent leading to panoramic views of the Bow Valley and Canmore.
A museum showcasing the history and geology of the Canmore area, including exhibits on the town's coal mining past and the natural history of the Rockies.
A unique cave system offering guided tours through stunning underground formations and historical sites.
A year-round recreation area offering hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing trails with stunning mountain views.
A local favorite made with bison meat, often served with local cheeses and toppings. A must-try for meat lovers.
Dishes featuring locally sourced wild game such as elk, venison, and bison, prepared in various styles.
Locally caught trout prepared in various ways, often grilled or fried with local ingredients.
Canmore has a thriving craft beer scene with several local breweries and wineries offering unique, locally produced beverages.
Summer offers ideal conditions for hiking, biking, and exploring the outdoors, while winter is perfect for skiing and snowboarding. These seasons see the highest tourist volumes.
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Mountain Time Zone (MT), UTC-7 (standard time), UTC-6 (daylight saving time)
120VV, 60HzHz
Canmore is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
Calgary Downtown Terminal
The local bus service is affordable and convenient for getting around town and to popular attractions. Schedules may be limited outside of peak seasons.
Available • Apps: Uber, Local taxi companies
Car, Bike
Canada's oldest national park offers stunning mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, and a variety of outdoor activities.
A stunning area of wilderness and recreation, offering a mix of hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
A breathtaking national park offering stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Price varies by option