Rodeos, Ranching and The Rockies
Saddle Up for an Authentic Alberta Adventure
Alberta is known for its strong cowboy culture, deeply rooted in the province’s history and influenced by the wide-open plains. Begin by experiencing the world-famous Calgary Stampede, dubbed ‘The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth’, attracting over one million visitors per year, before you drive south to Thanksgiving Ranch – a working guest ranch nestled in the heart of the Rockies. End your stay in picturesque Banff, to ensure you tick the key sites off your Canadian bucket list.
Click here to check out more holidays in Canada.
Ref:528309
Your Itinerary
-
Day 1
-
Day 2-3
-
Day 4
-
Day 5-6
-
Day 7
-
Day 8
-
Day 9
-
Day 10
Day 1 : Calgary
Arrive in Calgary and transfer independently to your downtown hotel for the next 3 nights. The city will be alive with the atmosphere of the Stampede, which you’ll enjoy as part of your time here.
Day 2-3 : Calgary Stampede
One of Canada’s largest and most famous festivals, the Calgary Stampede features one of the world’s largest rodeos, along with art and agricultural exhibitions, music concerts, stage shows and more. Over the next two days, you have reserved seating for both the evening and afternoon shows, as well as a two-day pass to Stampede park to experience everything on offer.
Day 4 : Thanksgiving Ranch (151 miles)
Collect your rental car this morning from a downtown depot and take the 2 ½ hour drive to Thanksgiving Ranch. Located between Pincher Creek and Waterton Lakes National Park, over the next few days you’ll enjoy horseback riding, mountain hikes and stargazing at this luxury Canadian Rockies escape.
Day 5-6 : Thanksgiving Ranch
Over the course of your three nights at this family-run working ranch, you’ll enjoy two 90-minute horseback riding experiences, as well as full run of the ranch’s amenities including pool and sauna. Take a stroll through vast open fields, lend a hand herding cattle or hike in the fresh mountain air.
Day 7 : Banff (214 miles)
There is an opportunity for a great white water rafting trip on the Kicking Horse River. It involves a side trip to Golden in B.C., headquarters for many outdoor adventures. Of course hiking is always an alternative. Among the choice of trails the guide would like to show you is an 18 km (11 mi) circuit through two flower decorated passes at 1830m and 2180m (6093ft and 7250ft) and spectacular views of Emerald Lake. The Natural Bridge, Takakkaw Falls, and Spiral Tunnel are other attractions of Yoho Park. Hiking time 6 hours.
Day 8 : Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
Included today is a small group tour of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Visit the jewel of the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise, and world-renowned Moraine Lake. Both are part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you’ll learn about mountaineering history. Return to Banff later this afternoon.
Day 9 : Banff
Your last full day in Banff is at leisure – you may wish to visit the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs – the castle in the Rockies – for afternoon tea, take a dip in the hot springs or relax at one of Banff Avenue’s many restaurants, cafes or bars to watch the world go by.
Day 10 : Calgary departure
Mighty Athabasca Falls count among the attractions of this park. Trails near the Columbia Icefields start at tree line and are especially rewarding thanks to their magnificent views of the glaciers and surrounding ranges. Your farewell to the Rockies is the 8km (5mi) hike with 335m (1155ft) gain into a pass at 2375m (7980ft). Now the transfer back to Calgary. Arrival at the hotel at about 7:00 pm. Hiking time 2 - 3 hours.
