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Banff & Jasper Vacations & Adventure Tours

alberta vacation adventure

Banff & Jasper vacations and adventure tours bring you to the heart of the Canadian Rockies to hike scenic trails and icy glaciers under a big, blue sky.

Spend your days trekking among the most beautiful scenery in the world, where you and your fellow travelers are the only living souls in sight (except for the occasional flock of bighorn sheep). On our Banff & Jasper vacations and adventure tours in Alberta, you can expect to hike the stunning Athabasca Glacier, tackle the Class III and IV rapids of Kicking Horse River, and set off on daily hikes amid the soaring peaks of the Canadian Rockies.

After all that adrenaline-pumping fun, we promise plenty of relaxation, too. Delicious food and luxurious accommodations await, perfect for unwinding over good conversation, a soak, or perhaps reading a book by a warm fire. Also, we promise not to let you leave before you check out the internationally acclaimed shops and galleries of Banff.

Banff & Jasper Vacation Packages

North America

Banff & Jasper Adventure

4.87

  • Duration 6 days
  • Activity Level Level 3 
    • Activity Level 3

      Step It Up

      I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings.

    Read more about the Active Range

 ADULT ONLY

The Canadian Rockies are yours to discover through off-the-beaten-track trails, heart-pumping rafting, and glacier hiking. Witness stunning views and explore hidden gems of the region, including Athabasca Glacier and Marble Canyon.

Trip Start: Calgary, Alberta Trip End: Calgary, Alberta

North America

British Columbia Hut to Hut Adventure

4.94

  • Duration 6 days
  • Activity Level Level 4 
    • Activity Level 4

      Challenge Accepted

      I'll let my trusty guides sweat the small things, so I can focus on my goal. Getting to the top, reaching the end, achieving my dreams! Sure, it'll be tough, but the views will be worth it.

    Read more about the Active Range

 ADULT ONLY

Helicopter deep into Canada's backcountry and hike from hut to hut amid pristine alpine wilderness. Explore the lesser-trekked trails of British Columbia’s Esplanade Range by day and indulge in fresh meals and absolute peace each night.

Trip Start: Calgary, Alberta Trip End: Calgary, Alberta

North America

Banff & Jasper Family Vacation

4.89

  • Duration 6 days
  • Activity Level Level 3 
    • Activity Level 3

      Step It Up

      I love an active vacation. Engaging in a challenging activity with a difficult goal, such as reaching a summit, is exactly what I need to unwind in the evenings.

    Read more about the Active Range

 FAMILY VACATION

Bring the family and pack your sense of adventure. With glacier hikes, river rafting, horseback riding, and backcountry biking, this Canadian Rockies adventure through Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise brings out the kid in everyone.

Trip Start: Calgary, Alberta Trip End: Calgary, Alberta

Hear from our Happy Guests
4.85/5 Rating | 6,500+ Reviews

What guests are saying about their Alberta Adventures

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Banff & Jasper Adventure - September 2023

Banff/Jasper Adult Hiking Trip

"To say I was emotionally overwhelmed is an understatement. I have been to a lot of beautiful places but this place brought tears. Even with three -maybe four - days of rain, this still was an amazing trip. The glory of the Rockies, the colors of the waters, the simple calmness of the place was a welcome respite from my concrete city life.

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"To say I was emotionally overwhelmed is an understatement. I have been to a lot… read more

"To say I was emotionally overwhelmed is an understatement. I have been to a lot of beautiful places but this place brought tears. Even with three -maybe four - days of rain, this still was an amazing trip. The glory of the Rockies, the colors of the waters, the simple calmness of the place was a welcome respite from my concrete city life. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

A Allison | September 2023

Banff & Jasper Adventure - September 2023

Banff and Jasper

"It was an excellent trip. Our two guides, Sydney and Santana were fantastic. We had some rain on two of the days and they were flexible in finding alternatives to our plans so that we could still hike but not be out in the elements too much. The accommodations were fine. The lunches that were prepared were great. The hikes were stunning.

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"It was an excellent trip. Our two guides, Sydney and Santana were fantastic. We had… read more

"It was an excellent trip. Our two guides, Sydney and Santana were fantastic. We had some rain on two of the days and they were flexible in finding alternatives to our plans so that we could still hike but not be out in the elements too much. The accommodations were fine. The lunches that were prepared were great. The hikes were stunning. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

Z Zell | September 2023

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2023

Great Banff/Jasper Trip

"Our trip to Banff & Jasper was fantastic. Sydney & Keenan were expert guides for the area and activities, and took care of our group. They pivoted with the weather and some of our requests during the trip all while pulling off a seamless adventure. We saw parts of Canada that we would not have been able to do on our own and learned so much - from hiking techniques to glacier activity. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience, guides and fellow guests. Looking forward to our next Austin adventure!

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"Our trip to Banff & Jasper was fantastic. Sydney & Keenan were expert guides… read more

"Our trip to Banff & Jasper was fantastic. Sydney & Keenan were expert guides for the area and activities, and took care of our group. They pivoted with the weather and some of our requests during the trip all while pulling off a seamless adventure. We saw parts of Canada that we would not have been able to do on our own and learned so much - from hiking techniques to glacier activity. We thoroughly enjoyed our experience, guides and fellow guests. Looking forward to our next Austin adventure! read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

S Shane | August 2023

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2023

Banff & Jasper Adventure

"This was my first adventure with (Active)Austin Adventures and my husbands second trip. I loved it! For me the white water rafting and glacier ice walk were awesome. Our guides, Sydney and Keenan were fantastic. They truly gave us the red carpet treatment and you can see the difference between Active Adventures and other companies when you are on the trip.

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"This was my first adventure with (Active)Austin Adventures and my husbands second trip. I loved… read more

"This was my first adventure with (Active)Austin Adventures and my husbands second trip. I loved it! For me the white water rafting and glacier ice walk were awesome. Our guides, Sydney and Keenan were fantastic. They truly gave us the red carpet treatment and you can see the difference between Active Adventures and other companies when you are on the trip. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

K Kendra | August 2023

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2023

Awesome trip to Banff

"Our trip guides - Keenan and Sydney were awesome! They literally thought of everything to make our trip so nice! From snacks on the river, to a dry towel after rafting, to a yummy charcuterie board after our bike ride, the two of them were so very thoughtful and engaged, for the entire trip! We thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of our trip, lots of great scenery, adventures and getting to know Keenan and Sydney throughout our week!

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"Our trip guides - Keenan and Sydney were awesome! They literally thought of everything to… read more

"Our trip guides - Keenan and Sydney were awesome! They literally thought of everything to make our trip so nice! From snacks on the river, to a dry towel after rafting, to a yummy charcuterie board after our bike ride, the two of them were so very thoughtful and engaged, for the entire trip! We thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of our trip, lots of great scenery, adventures and getting to know Keenan and Sydney throughout our week! read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

B Brad | August 2023

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2023

Like having your mom take care of all the details

"This was my 3rd trip with Austin Adventures and it again met their (and my) very high standards. After years as a single parent, I am always struck by how the guides at Austin take care of all the details as if they were an attentive parent planning so that no contingency could detract from my enjoyment. Didn’t bring enough water? They carried extra. Too tired to climb that last hill on the bike ride? They’ll give you a ride up, all without making you feel embarrassed. And they’re not only incredibly nice and resourceful, they are incredibly knowledgeable. I love traveling with these wonderful people.

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"This was my 3rd trip with Austin Adventures and it again met their (and my)… read more

"This was my 3rd trip with Austin Adventures and it again met their (and my) very high standards. After years as a single parent, I am always struck by how the guides at Austin take care of all the details as if they were an attentive parent planning so that no contingency could detract from my enjoyment. Didn’t bring enough water? They carried extra. Too tired to climb that last hill on the bike ride? They’ll give you a ride up, all without making you feel embarrassed. And they’re not only incredibly nice and resourceful, they are incredibly knowledgeable. I love traveling with these wonderful people. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

S Susan | August 2023

Banff & Jasper Adventure - July 2023

Breathtaking Beauty

"This has been one of my favorite of all vacations. The Canadian Rockies are stunningly beautiful - it leaves you in total wonderment about the powerful affect of nature. Our guides (Sydney and Keenan) were superb. They worked tirelessly to ensure we had a good time. It was the little things they did that impressed me with their hospitality skills. They left us hand written notes each night in our rooms with chocolates. They brought us hot chocolate with whipped cream during our hike on a glacier; they brought us wonderful snacks during a break while white water rafting; they made sure we had towels to dry off after the raft trip. The list goes on and on. Their positive attitude was contagious for the group, and even though many of us were strangers, we became almost like a family. Good job Austin Adventures for having such great guides.

read more

"This has been one of my favorite of all vacations. The Canadian Rockies are… read more

"This has been one of my favorite of all vacations. The Canadian Rockies are stunningly beautiful - it leaves you in total wonderment about the powerful affect of nature. Our guides (Sydney and Keenan) were superb. They worked tirelessly to ensure we had a good time. It was the little things they did that impressed me with their hospitality skills. They left us hand written notes each night in our rooms with chocolates. They brought us hot chocolate with whipped cream during our hike on a glacier; they brought us wonderful snacks during a break while white water rafting; they made sure we had towels to dry off after the raft trip. The list goes on and on. Their positive attitude was contagious for the group, and even though many of us were strangers, we became almost like a family. Good job Austin Adventures for having such great guides. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

W Wendi Green, | July 2023

Banff & Jasper Adventure - July 2023

Outstanding Trip to Banff & Jasper

"I have traveled around the world for both work and pleasure for many many years and this trip was by far among the tops. The guides, Sydney and Keenan, were outstanding and loved showing us the best of the Canadian Rockies. They thought of everything and adapted the schedule and days according to the group with ease and good humor. The other members of the party were delightful and after 6 days we left as good friends who shared a great adventure. Thank you Sidney and Keenan and Austin Adventures.

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"I have traveled around the world for both work and pleasure for many many years… read more

"I have traveled around the world for both work and pleasure for many many years and this trip was by far among the tops. The guides, Sydney and Keenan, were outstanding and loved showing us the best of the Canadian Rockies. They thought of everything and adapted the schedule and days according to the group with ease and good humor. The other members of the party were delightful and after 6 days we left as good friends who shared a great adventure. Thank you Sidney and Keenan and Austin Adventures. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

C Caroline | July 2023

Banff & Jasper Family Vacation - July 2023

Alberta

"Wonderful trip. Beautiful scenery.

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"Wonderful trip. Beautiful scenery. read more

"Wonderful trip. Beautiful scenery. read less

5 Stars (56 reviews)

M Morgan | July 2023

Banff & Jasper Family Vacation - July 2023

Fantastic Banff Area Family Trip

"This was our third trip with Austin Adventures. They truly know how to plan and execute a fantastic family vacation experience. We love finding hidden gems and learning from expert guides. The guides are able to pivot to accommodate the group's needs if needed and make the most of every experience. We absolutely loved the beauty of the Banff and Jasper areas and highly recommend this trip to any outdoor lovers. Our kids are 17,20, and 23 so we were able to truly explore this area thoroughly.

read more

"This was our third trip with Austin Adventures. They truly know how to plan… read more

"This was our third trip with Austin Adventures. They truly know how to plan and execute a fantastic family vacation experience. We love finding hidden gems and learning from expert guides. The guides are able to pivot to accommodate the group's needs if needed and make the most of every experience. We absolutely loved the beauty of the Banff and Jasper areas and highly recommend this trip to any outdoor lovers. Our kids are 17,20, and 23 so we were able to truly explore this area thoroughly. read less

5 Stars (56 reviews)

S Sally | July 2023

Banff & Jasper Family Vacation - June 2023

Our time in Canada with Sydney and Santana

"Our overall experience was excellent. Every activity exceeded our expectations but our guides made the trip memorable.

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"Our overall experience was excellent. Every activity exceeded our expectations but our guides made the… read more

"Our overall experience was excellent. Every activity exceeded our expectations but our guides made the trip memorable. read less

5 Stars (56 reviews)

T Tony | June 2023

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2022

Banff to Jasper Adult

"The highlight of the trip for me was the white water rafting! I have done a lot of exciting things in my 74 years but this by far was the most exhilarating adrenaline rush I have experienced. It surpassed any expectation that I had even dreamed about. Second of all, I enjoyed the spectacular scenery of the Rockies. Not only did our guides show us well known places, but we got to visit spectacular locations off the beaten path which I certainly enjoyed and feel privileged to have seen.
Our walk in the Athabaskan Glacier was unforgettable. It was definitely a learning experience and I got to taste glacial waters for the first time!
Our 3 guides, Ree, Sydney and Keenan were fabulous. They were very knowledgeable about the area, it’s history and the habitat. They took care of all our needs in profession and fun style. They were all “ down to earth” fun people with great communication skills that really helped mesh our group together. On that note I want to say how much I enjoyed all the other guests on the trip. We all brought something to share…

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"The highlight of the trip for me was the white water rafting! I have done… read more

"The highlight of the trip for me was the white water rafting! I have done a lot of exciting things in my 74 years but this by far was the most exhilarating adrenaline rush I have experienced. It surpassed any expectation that I had even dreamed about. Second of all, I enjoyed the spectacular scenery of the Rockies. Not only did our guides show us well known places, but we got to visit spectacular locations off the beaten path which I certainly enjoyed and feel privileged to have seen.
Our walk in the Athabaskan Glacier was unforgettable. It was definitely a learning experience and I got to taste glacial waters for the first time!
Our 3 guides, Ree, Sydney and Keenan were fabulous. They were very knowledgeable about the area, it’s history and the habitat. They took care of all our needs in profession and fun style. They were all “ down to earth” fun people with great communication skills that really helped mesh our group together. On that note I want to say how much I enjoyed all the other guests on the trip. We all brought something to share with each other and created a bond amongst us that was truly remarkable in our short time together. So special! read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

S Sandy, Canada | August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure

"This was a very good trip. Expert guides, beautiful scenery and great food.

read more

"This was a very good trip. Expert guides, beautiful scenery and great food. read more

"This was a very good trip. Expert guides, beautiful scenery and great food. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

C Cheryl | August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure

"Our Austin Adventure in the Canadian Rockies exceeded expectations in every way. The scenery and hiking experiences were spectacular. Accommodations, transportation and meals were excellent. Most of all, we were impressed by our wonderful guides - Lisa, Sydney and Tabs. These gals made our experience truly outstanding! Charming, interesting, knowledgeable, organized and super fun ... they took great care of all of us. We never stopped smiling.

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"Our Austin Adventure in the Canadian Rockies exceeded expectations in every way. The scenery and… read more

"Our Austin Adventure in the Canadian Rockies exceeded expectations in every way. The scenery and hiking experiences were spectacular. Accommodations, transportation and meals were excellent. Most of all, we were impressed by our wonderful guides - Lisa, Sydney and Tabs. These gals made our experience truly outstanding! Charming, interesting, knowledgeable, organized and super fun ... they took great care of all of us. We never stopped smiling. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

K Katie | August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure

"The location was fantastic, the guides were knowledgeable, caring, organized, friendly and listened! The meals were wonderful and the driving was safe.

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"The location was fantastic, the guides were knowledgeable, caring, organized, friendly and listened! The… read more

"The location was fantastic, the guides were knowledgeable, caring, organized, friendly and listened! The meals were wonderful and the driving was safe. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

D Dennis | August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure

"Organized and executed to perfection.

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"Organized and executed to perfection. read more

"Organized and executed to perfection. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

M Michelle | August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure

"This was a bucket list trip for me, which can set up unfair high expectations when you're laying down a lot of money (which it was for me). For that reason I purposefully tried to avoid reading up too much on the details and time after time was wowed by the aspects that Austin Adventures organized - the food, the snacks, the vans, the silver platters, the hot lavender towels after the cold plunge, and most of all the guides. I don't know what personality test you put them through (I'd like to know your hiring secrets), but each guide was exceptional in their knowledge, helpfulness, communication, and kindness. You definitely spend more time with these guides than I have on other trips and Tabs, Lisa, and Sydney were all even just great company.

read more

"This was a bucket list trip for me, which can set up unfair high expectations… read more

"This was a bucket list trip for me, which can set up unfair high expectations when you're laying down a lot of money (which it was for me). For that reason I purposefully tried to avoid reading up too much on the details and time after time was wowed by the aspects that Austin Adventures organized - the food, the snacks, the vans, the silver platters, the hot lavender towels after the cold plunge, and most of all the guides. I don't know what personality test you put them through (I'd like to know your hiring secrets), but each guide was exceptional in their knowledge, helpfulness, communication, and kindness. You definitely spend more time with these guides than I have on other trips and Tabs, Lisa, and Sydney were all even just great company. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

K Kelly | August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure

"The trip was amazing. The guides did a spectacular job and were very accommodating. The Beer Creek Lodge was wonderful. I did wish we could have some more time to explore BANFF. Lunch options other than sandwiches and wraps would have been appreciated. A little more autonomy on the hikes that allowed more aggressive hikers to challenge themselves would be welcomed. Finally, the overall cost was on the high-end and not necessarily competitive. And I didn't like how pick up hotels were changed after we had already booked. Perhaps a little more flexibility on where you pick people up.

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"The trip was amazing. The guides did a spectacular job and were very accommodating.… read more

"The trip was amazing. The guides did a spectacular job and were very accommodating. The Beer Creek Lodge was wonderful. I did wish we could have some more time to explore BANFF. Lunch options other than sandwiches and wraps would have been appreciated. A little more autonomy on the hikes that allowed more aggressive hikers to challenge themselves would be welcomed. Finally, the overall cost was on the high-end and not necessarily competitive. And I didn't like how pick up hotels were changed after we had already booked. Perhaps a little more flexibility on where you pick people up. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

C Charles | August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure

"Overall the trip was very good. Some activities exceeded my expectations, like the rafting on Kicking Horse River and hiking to Sentinel Pass. The guides handled all experiences with ease. All events proceeded without delay or difficulty. The guides were very professional, and even though it was their first season with Austin Adventures, you could tell they had a lot of other guide experiences.

read more

"Overall the trip was very good. Some activities exceeded my expectations, like the rafting on… read more

"Overall the trip was very good. Some activities exceeded my expectations, like the rafting on Kicking Horse River and hiking to Sentinel Pass. The guides handled all experiences with ease. All events proceeded without delay or difficulty. The guides were very professional, and even though it was their first season with Austin Adventures, you could tell they had a lot of other guide experiences. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

T Theresa | August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure - August 2022

Banff & Jasper Adventure

"Both leaders were exceptionally prepared for our everyday adventures. Both new the area we explored and beyond from nature, mountain ranges, etc..to help us understand the diversity of the areas we traveled.

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"Both leaders were exceptionally prepared for our everyday adventures. Both new the area we explored… read more

"Both leaders were exceptionally prepared for our everyday adventures. Both new the area we explored and beyond from nature, mountain ranges, etc..to help us understand the diversity of the areas we traveled. read less

5 Stars (117 reviews)

G Gary | August 2022

bc vacations 2

When is the best time to visit Alberta?

Alberta enjoys four distinct seasons from snowy winters to mild summers. With the highest number of sunny days in all of Canada (more than 2,300 hours of sunshine each year), Alberta is the perfect place to explore. Alberta adventure vacations can be taken any time of year, but our top pick for the best time to visit Alberta is the summer months from June to August.

Spring (March to May)

You’ll find that the beginning of spring (March and early April) is still quite snowy, and the temperatures will stay on the cooler side (10-25 degrees Fahrenheit). This is the perfect time to take advantage of “spring skiing” and other snow sports, when the weather is warmer than mid-winter, but the snow is still powdery and fresh. Late April and early May will warm up day by day until you see late spring temperatures in the 60s. You’ll still need that jacket for cool evenings.

Summer (June – August)

Most of our Alberta adventures take place during the summer months and this seems to be when the weather is at its finest. You’ll see upper-60s to mid-70s for high temperatures, which is just perfect for scoping out wildlife, taking on the Class II to IV rapids of the Kicking Horse River or taking on a full day hike over Sentinel Pass. Even in mid-summer, you’ll likely run into plenty of snow in the high country and will even get to experience walking on a glacier – it doesn’t get much cooler than that!

Autumn (September – November)

Alberta in the fall is a real treat as the tourist season winds down, the aspens turn a dazzling shade of gold, and sunshine-filled days continue to hold throughout October. This is the perfect time to hike in the high country as most of the snow has melted with constant exposure to summer sunshine and the winter storms haven’t hit yet. Expect highs in the upper 40s to 60-degree range.

Winter (December – February)

Albertans spend half of their year in the snow, so they’ve found lots of ways to enjoy the cold winter! Spending a wintry vacation in Alberta means you’ll likely be downhill or cross-country skiing, sledding, ice skating, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or engaging in the ultimate snowball fight. While temperatures will be chilly (below 0 to 20 degrees F), you can wage a war on the cold by throwing on the layers when playing outside during the day.

BC vacations

How to plan for your Banff & Jasper Vacation

If you’re planning a Banff & Jasper vacation in Alberta, you may be wondering what the experts know that you should, too. Below are a few tips to get you started from our seasoned team:

1. Training will make your active Alberta vacation that much easier

On your Alberta vacation, you will take advantage of all kinds of activities: hiking, biking, glacier trekking, rafting, and more! You’ll find that these activities will probably be more enjoyable for you if you practice being active before you ever step foot in Alberta. Many of the hikes and bike rides are hilly (you are in the Canadian Rockies after all!) and probably at a higher elevation than what you’re used to at home. Walking, running, cycling, swimming, and taking fitness classes are all great ways to prepare your body for an active vacation. Find an exercise you enjoy and stick with it three to five times per week to get yourself ready.

2. Pack layers – and your raincoat!

You’re headed to the Rockies which means the weather can be unpredictable. You’ll want to check the weather forecast before you pack so you know what to prepare for. One thing we can tell you to pack with certainty is layers of clothing. Often it will be cool in the morning and warm up to shorts and t-shirt weather later in the day. You’ll want to have your lighter under-layers packed, but you’ll also want some light pants and mid-weight pullovers or jackets as well. Don’t forget to bring a quality raincoat – afternoon thunderstorms are common in the Rockies and you can enjoy so much more when you’re comfortable!

3. Research the host city for things to do

If you’re headed to Alberta, you’ll likely fly into Calgary, a dynamic city situated on the banks of the Bow River. There are tons of things to see and do, whether you want to visit a zoo, take the kids to an amusement park, walk around a museum, sip on local beers at a brewery, shop downtown, or eat at one of the delicious eateries scattered around the city. It also seems that there is a different festival going on every week and you can find an up-to-date list of events on the VisitCalgary.com website.

Travel Tips for Visiting Alberta

A trip to Alberta should be on every traveler’s bucket list. The snow-capped Canadian Rockies, turquoise blue mountain lakes, and abundant wildlife promise an unforgettable adventure in Alberta’s high country.

We’ve compiled a few Alberta travel tips from our team to make your travels easy and enjoyable:

1. Keep an eye out for Alberta’s “Big Five”

On your Alberta vacation, you’ll have the opportunity to spot Alberta’s “Big Five” – grizzly and black bears, big horn sheep, elk, moose, and mountain goats. Keep your eyes peeled while you’re hiking the trails, cycling the bike paths, or just riding in the van down the Bow Valley Parkway. You never know what you’ll see!

2. Passport requirements

Unless you’re native to Canada, you’ll need a passport for entry, but if you’re coming from the United States, you won’t need a visa. If you reside in a different country, you’ll want to check out the Government of Canada’s website to see if you need to apply for a visitor visa prior to entering Canada.

3. Prepare for unpredictable weather

In the Canadian Rockies, you should count on a wide range of weather. First, prepare yourself mentally to enjoy your vacation, regardless of the type of weather! It could be sunny, windy, rainy, or snowy at any time of year (especially in the higher elevations). With a positive attitude and good gear, you’re likely to enjoy your vacation in any type of weather. You always want to have a light hat and gloves (even in the height of summer) and lots of layers to pile on or shed off, depending on the conditions.

FAQs About Alberta Adventures

Do you recommend buying travel insurance?

As an Austin Adventures traveler, it’s highly recommended you take out travel insurance to cover the likes of travel delays, missed connections, medical expenses or injury, or lost baggage for your travel with us. Please head to our Travel Protection page for more in-depth information and our recommended insurance provider.

What's included on your North America trips?

Accommodation

We've spent years finding places to stay that are quaint, perfectly-located, and comfortable when we take you to the most amazing parts of North America. We offer a wide variety of accommodations on our trips ranging from locally run inns and first-class hotels to resorts, dude ranches and historic national park cabins. Accommodations are selected for their location, unique charm and history, and offer a true feel for the region. We strongly believe in the value of a good night's sleep and our accommodation reflects this. We also like to have somewhere comfortable to relax after the day's activities.

Transport

We're really focused on ensuring that we spend as little time as possible sitting in vehicles, and that we optimise your vacation for adventuring in the great outdoors. Our average driving time is just over two hours a day, and we make plenty of stops for bathroom breaks and sightseeing along the way. We use modern, comfortable 15-passenger vans for all of our transfers and a second van is added to most departures to provide more flexibility and more room to spread out while seeing the sights! Make no mistake - our trips are not typical bus tour vacation packages! Picture more of a road trip with family complete with good music, tasty snacks, and plenty of guide-supplied fun facts along the way to keep you entertained!

Meals

Just about all your meals are included when you travel with Austin Adventures in North America. We provide a wide variety of cuisine - breakfasts are typically eaten at your hotel on your own time in the morning before meeting up with the group. Lunches feature everything from elaborate picnics to roadside cafes to sandwiches trailside. Dinners are usually eaten at our hotel's dining room or a local restaurant with plenty of options to choose from. We easily cater to vegetarians, picky kids, and people with particular dietary needs. All our guides have food safety certificates and are well-practiced in the art of food prep and serving while on-the-move. You'll find the meals are a real highlight of your trip!

All Guiding Services

Each trip features two or three incredible guides and our average guest to guide ratio is 6:1. Our guests are often drawn to North America by the beautiful scenic landscapes, promise of wilderness and clean air - and there's no doubt you'll find all that, though what you may not be expecting is to forge real, genuine friendships with your fellow tripmates, including our wonderful guides. They're hands-down the BEST guides you'll ever come across.

Activities

Any activity described in our itinerary, such as hiking, rafting, horseback riding, kayaking and biking, are included in your trip cost. Our itineraries are pretty jam-packed to maximize our time spent exploring in these amazing places, and your guides will make it clear if there are additional activities available (at your expense).

How many people are there on each of our North America trips?

We generally take up to 18 people per trip, although this can vary, and all our trips have at least two of our guides to look after you (apart from the occasions we have a small group). We have found that our trips tend to attract a particular kind of person and many people have commented that the social scene was one of the highlights of their trip!

Our adult-only departures require a minimum age of 16 years and our family departures require a minimum age of 6 years to join (7 years on our Alaska Family Adventure) and are a great way to meet other like-minded families who like to get outside.
Please note child rates apply to children 12 years and under.

Do you charge a forced single supplement if I'm a solo traveller?

We welcome many solo travelers on our trips – in fact, we get so many solo travelers and they always say it’s a great way to travel alone, but not actually by themselves. You’ll have an incredible adventure sharing your experiences with other like-minded travelers, and the best part is we don't charge extra for solo travelers, providing you don’t mind sharing a room. However, for bookings within 90 days of your chosen departure, a forced single supplement will apply if there is no other guest of the same gender already booked to share with.

If you prefer not to share a room at all, you can upgrade to a single room, if one is available. 

If I book a trip with my children, will I be sharing a room with them?

Active Adventures & Austin Adventures family vacations are naturally about spending time with family and as such, most families opt to share rooms on our trips. At time of booking, families consisting of four guests with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at the guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

What if I need a special diet?

We’re accustomed to catering to the following special diets:

  • vegan (no meat or animal products)
  • vegetarian (no meat products)
  • pescatarian (vegetarian, and eat fish)
  • no red meat (eat chicken & fish)
  • no pork (eat chicken & fish)
  • gluten intolerant (no wheat, rye, barley or oats)
  • lactose intolerant (no dairy products)
  • picky kids (send us a list of what your child will eat and we'll make sure to have it!)
You will get the opportunity to specify your particular requirements when you fill in your travel wallet. If you have any other dietary requirements please let us know well in advance, via email or the online travel wallet.

 

How much luggage can I bring on the North America trips?

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You’ll also want a good quality backpack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) to use throughout the days.

How much spending money should I bring and where do I get cash?

You'll be able to find a reliable ATM once you arrive to start your trip, within the township or at the airport you land in, as national park ATM locations are sparse at best. Aside from tips for your guides, you could bring $200 and go home with change though some people like to bring some cash to cover a round of drinks, a few souvenirs, and dinner on "night on your own", although you could just as easily use a credit card for these purchases too.

What are your recommended guide gratuity guidelines?

You will have 2-3 guides on your Austin Adventure (depending on group size) and we recommend $15-25 per day, per guest, per guide. Typically, gratuities are offered by check or cash in local currency on the final morning of the trip and can either be given to each guide individually or to one guide to be equally distributed. Most of our guides these days also accept gratuities via Venmo (please note this app does not work in Canada). All dining, housekeeping and activity tips are included in your trip price.

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Secure Your Spot Now, Pay the Rest Later

As members of the Active Adventures family, Austin Adventures offers booking assurance that allows you to secure your spot with a deposit now and pay the rest later. Plus, if your plans change or you can’t travel, you can transfer your booking or request a refund on any additional funds paid (less deposit) up to 90 days (180 days for Africa and Himalayas trips) from your original trip start date.  

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Meet your Alberta Adventure Guides

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Why Travel With US

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Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.

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Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

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You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!

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Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.

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Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

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"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience.