Rodeos, Ranching & The Rockies
Self-drive tour
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 with stays in Waterton Lakes National Park where the prairies meet the Rockies, and then to picturesque Banff, to ensure you tick the key sites off your Alberta bucket list.
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Your Itinerary
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Day 1
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Day 2-3
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Day 4
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Day 5-6
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Day 7
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Day 8
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Day 9
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Day 10
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Day 11
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.
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 stay 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 : Waterton Lakes National Park (27 miles)
Drive the short distance to Waterton Lakes National Park, where the prairies of Alberta meet the peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Serving as the world’s first International Peace Park bordering the US state of Montana, it offers spectacular scenery without the crowds.
Day 8 : Banff (230 miles)
Make your way to Banff today to tick off another National Park. Arrive at your hotel on Banff Avenue and stroll the streets and eateries amid a mountain backdrop.
Day 9 : Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
Today a small group tour of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is included. Visit these jewels of the Canadian Rockies and learn about mountaineering history before you return to Banff later this afternoon.
Day 10 : 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 11 : Calgary departure
Make your way back to Calgary airport to drop off your car ahead of your departing flight as your Alberta adventure comes to an end.
