What to do and see in Banff, Canadian Rockies: The Best Multi-day Tours

April 20, 2022 Sheron Bogner

Flanked on all sides by the Rockies, Banff offers an irresistible combination of perfect powder, luxury lodges, fine dining and lively nightlife. A thriving arts scene and proximity to Lake Louise and Kananaskis County add to its allure. Don’t miss the hoodoos, intriguing rock spires, in Banff National Park.
Restaurants in Banff

1. 4-Day Bicycle Tour through Canadian Rockies

Mountain Madness Tours
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5.0 based on 10 reviews

With no roof to restrict the view, this 4-day, small group bicycle tour from Jasper to Banff is an adventure for the body, mind, and soul. Traverse two national parks through the spectacular Icefields Parkway, winding between Jasper and Lake Louise. Then cycle the Bow Valley Parkway to the final destination in Banff. Enjoy the company of ancient trees and mighty, snow-capped peaks covering 300 kilometers. The calm pace offers ample time to take in views of endless mountains, glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, and native wildlife.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Three nights accommodation (twin share), All taxes, fees, and handling charges, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Local taxes, National Park fees, Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Meals: Three Breakfasts, lunches, dinners and unlimited snacks, Van support during riding days, USB disk with high-quality photos taken during the tour., Transfers from Edmonton to Jasper and from Banff to Calgary or Edmonton at the end of the tour

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Gratuities, Rental bike, Single supplement (room to self), Lunch on the first day

Reviewed By David L

Loved it! Ben and Bryan did everything they could to satisfy even our most finicky guest. Scenery is spectacular. You will see wildlife, including bears, elk, and free-range cattle. Food is excellent - fine dining can be found "out there." Accommodations were much better than I expected them to be - large, modern, and comfortable. The route will be challenging for most riders, but not overly so with the low gearing on Ben's rental bikes. You will enjoy this tour!

2. 3-Day Sundance Explorer Backcountry Lodge By Horseback

Warner Stables - Banff Trail Riders, 100 Sundance Rd, Banff, AB T1L 1B9, Canada Banff Trail Riders
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

Discover rugged mountain scenery and an abundance of wildlife on this 3-day Sundance Explorer ride. And when the sun sets, you’ll be relaxing in pure backcountry comfort - cowboy style. This adventure takes you along the glacier-fed waters of the Bow River, one of the best spots in Banff to spot elk, deer or even moose roaming along the shores. Follow the historic Erling Strom Trail, travelled by renowned explorer Erling Strom in the early 1900s, while taking in awe-evoking views of the Sundance mountain range. At night, the cozy Sundance Lodge gives you a surprisingly comfortable spot to rest your head. Snuggle by the fire, devour gourmet backcountry cuisine and swap tales about the day’s adventures with your fellow riders. Please note that this trip departs on Mondays from late May to early October.

Inclusions: 2 nights accommodation, Lunch, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Lunch, Dinner, Professional guide, Helmets (mandatory for riders under 18 years)

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transportation to/from attractions, National Park Entry Fee

Reviewed By GEOS30

Overall an enjoyable experience. A bit pricey, and not something you would do that often. They had really good COVID protocols in place, everything seemed cleaned and sanitized. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and the sleigh ride was quite enjoyable.

3. 4-Day Erling Strom Trail Backcountry Lodge Trip by Horseback

Warner Stables - Banff Trail Riders, 100 Sundance Rd, Banff, AB T1L 1B9, Canada Banff Trail Riders
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

Ride through Alberta’s Wild West, tracing the paths that the early pioneers used while exploring these untamed forests. On this trip you will follow the Erling Strom Trail, a path forged through the dense Banff forests by renowned explorer Erling Strom in the early 1900s. Amidst dense fragrant pines and snow-crested mountains that pierce the sky, you’ll get to experience the wild side of Banff that not many visitors get to see. With a backcountry expert to guide you, this horseback experience is a chance to learn about the history of early exploration in the region and stay in comfortable lodges where you can reconnect with friends by the fire. With four days to wander and discover Canada’s oldest national park, there's plenty of time to relax into the slow pace and peaceful quiet of life on the trail. Please note that this trip departs on Wednesdays from late June to early September.

Inclusions: 3 nights accommodation, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Dinner, Professional guide, Helmets (mandatory for riders under 18 years)

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transportation to/from attractions, National Park Entry Fee

Reviewed By GEOS30

Overall an enjoyable experience. A bit pricey, and not something you would do that often. They had really good COVID protocols in place, everything seemed cleaned and sanitized. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and the sleigh ride was quite enjoyable.

4. Rockies Christmas Premium Tour

Flyover Canada Ticket Centre, 1010 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9, Canada Discover Canada Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

This special 5-day tour includes 2-nights in Banff with Christmas dinner and a sleigh ride through a winter wonderland. On this tour you'll travel over 2,000 kilometers, leaving the Province of British Columbia to Alberta, and even cross a time-zone! You will spend Christmas Eve and Christmas day in Banff, the most famous town in the Rockies, go on a sleigh ride through a winter wonderland (included) and have a free day to try an exciting winter activity like skiing/boarding at Lake Louise, dog sledding or ice walking, or you can sleep in after a big night out on the town and enjoy the shops and sights of Banff.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, 4-nights hotel accommodation with pools & hot tubs including two nights in downtown Banff. 4 breakfasts Christmas Dinner Sleigh Ride Luxury coach transportation Traditional Canadian campfire where you will roast marshmallows and learn how to make "s'mores" Guided hike led by a First Nations Cultural Host Friendly Experienced Tour Guide to make sure you have the best trip ever! All taxes and park fees, Wine tasting, Luxury coach transportation, Storytelling from a First Nations Cultural Host, All taxes and park fees, Traditional Canadian campfire where you will roast marshmallows and learn how to make "s'mores"

Exclusions: Additional meals, Travel Insurance, Optional Activities

Reviewed By ChristineC5528

Really enjoyed the Thanksgiving 2020 trip to the Rockies. The scenery was stunning, the itinerary was packed and Luke and Nigel made it a great experience. Thanks!

5. 5-day Rocky Mountains Coho Tour from Vancouver finish Banff

Samesun Vancouver, 1018 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1L5, Canada Moose Travel Network
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Our Coho tour really packs a punch! This 5 day one-way trip from Vancouver to Banff takes you from the Coast Mountains, and through the Okanagan desert, before climbing into the glacial valleys of Banff and Jasper National Parks in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Take in some amazing sights of crashing waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and stunning mountain ranges on this unforgettable Rocky Mountain tour. You’ll even get to try Indigenous cuisine. The perfect short trip if you want to get a feel for the real Canada! Note: the Coho is the first 5 days of the 8 day Caribou tour. Some of your fellow travellers will have already travelled together on one of our longer combination tours, and some will be continuing back to Vancouver after you finish. tour. Moose tours are designed for 18 to 39 year olds, but we welcome all adventurous travellers that are 18+.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Dinner, Dinner, 4 nights accommodation in mixed gender, hostel dorm-style rooms, Moose Bus transportation, Services of a professional & fun tour guide/driver, Paddleboarding on Skaha Lake, National Park fees

Exclusions: Meals except as indicated under Inclusions, Optional activities

Reviewed By joelrD4032UD

My partner and I only had 2 weeks to cram in the whole of BC. This totally ticked all the boxes. We got to see the highlights and some of the smaller, quieter tourist spots. Steph, our driver, was ace and the people travelling with us made it our most memorable trip so far. We went in August so the attractions were busy which is to be expected. The activities included were great and the hikes were incredible, with Steph as a personal tour guide. We got the accommodation package which was worth the money and totally hassle free. I would recommend Moose Bus to anyone, even if it's simply a day trip.

6. Rockies Special 2-Day (Banff National Park and Columbia Icefield)

Sandman Signature Calgary Downtown Hotel, 888 7 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 3J3, Canada Calgary Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Explore the frozen expanses of the Columbia Icefield, snap photos of the snow-covered peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and learn about the erosive legacy around Banff and Jasper's national parks. At the edge of the Columbia Icefield, hop out to explore a small corner of the largest icefield in North America and consider consider an optional tour to the Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer. Continue on to the shores of Bow Lake, where you can snap photos of the Waputik Range's jagged peaks, and check out the icy foot of the Crowfoot Glacier, and then swing by Peyto Lake whose blue-green waters seem to glow due to their high mineral content. From the quaint mountainside town of Banff, to the must-visit natural attraction Johnston Canyon (if closed, replaced by Lake Minnwanka). Scope out the snow-dusted peaks, misty falls, and dramatic canyons around Banff as you explore this rugged slice of Alberta with an experienced guide.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Air-conditioned vehicle, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Gratuities, Bilingual English Tour Guide

Exclusions: Lunch and Dinner are not include, Personal expense and travel insurance, Optional admission package is not include (ex: Snocoach, Skywalk and Maligne Lake Cruise)

Reviewed By ShobhitN6

The trip was amazing and had a very good experience. The guide was excellent and very helpful. He explained everything about the places . Overall it was a memorable experience. Highly recommended.

7. 8-day Rocky Mountains Caribou Tour from Vancouver

Samesun Vancouver, 1018 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1L5, Canada Moose Travel Network
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

The 8 day Caribou tour is a great way to see the Canadian Rocky Mountains and the highlights of southern British Columbia. Travel the world famous Icefields Parkway and visit Banff, Jasper and Yoho National Parks on our most popular tour. Hiking in the mountains, swimming in stunning lakes, chasing waterfalls, spotting wildlife, and exploring Indigenous cultures await. And get your thrill (or chill) on by trying some of the optional activities! Note: some of your fellow travellers will have already travelled together on one of our longer combination tours. Moose tours are designed for 18 to 39 year olds, but we welcome all adventurous travellers that are 18+.

Inclusions: Dinner, Dinner, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, 7 nights accommodation in mixed gender, hostel dorm-style rooms, Moose Bus transportation, Services of a professional & fun tour guide/driver, Paddleboarding on Skaha Lake, National Park fees, Guided tour of Tuckkwiowhum Village Indigenous heritage site

Exclusions: Meals except as indicated under Inclusions, Optional activities

Reviewed By joelrD4032UD

My partner and I only had 2 weeks to cram in the whole of BC. This totally ticked all the boxes. We got to see the highlights and some of the smaller, quieter tourist spots. Steph, our driver, was ace and the people travelling with us made it our most memorable trip so far. We went in August so the attractions were busy which is to be expected. The activities included were great and the hikes were incredible, with Steph as a personal tour guide. We got the accommodation package which was worth the money and totally hassle free. I would recommend Moose Bus to anyone, even if it's simply a day trip.

8. 6 Day Rocky Mountain Explorer Private Tour

Beautiful Vancouver Explorer
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Explore the best of the Canadian Rockies with a Local Guide. This amazing tour will take you from the beautiful city of Vancouver on the Pacific Northwest to the famed majestic Canadian Rockies in Alberta. At the Canadian Rockies, be awed by the size of the mountain ranges and peaks; the sheer beauty of its canyons, waterfalls, turquoise lakes; its mighty glaciers; and unique flora and fauna. You will visit Banff, Jasper, Athabasca Glacier, Lake Louise, Lake Moraine, Lake Peyto, Johnston Canyon, and Maligne Lake. Enjoy hiking, biking, whitewater rafting, or a lake cruise. At Kamloops, see unique arid desert landscape, flora and fauna. Trek up canyons; walk iced trails; canoe on turquoise lakes; ride gondolas, dog sleds, and monster vehicle. View wildlife. NOTE: You have to arrange your own accommodation in Golden, Banff, Jasper & Kamloops. Alternatively, we can arrange your accommodation and you pay when you check out.

Inclusions: Private tour, just you and your group, Private driver/guide, Insightful live commentary in English on board, tailored to your group's interest, Private transport by air-conditioned luxurious Mercedes Benz Sprinter van, Bottled water, Hotel/port pickup and drop-off, Winery tour and wine tasting in Kamloops, Entrance fees to the Yoho National Park, Banff National Park, and Jasper National Park, Entrance to the Cave & Basin Historic Site, Banff, Gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain, Banff

Exclusions: Gratuities, Hotel accommodation (you have to book your own accommodation), All other out of pocket expenses

Reviewed By 1971RustyM

It was just to sad too much tourist when we went here but we took the bike around this place, amazing amazing LOVE CANADA :)

9. Rockies Summer Explorer from Vancouver (4 Days)

Flyover Canada Ticket Centre, 1010 Canada Pl, Vancouver, BC V6C 0B9, Canada Discover Canada Tours
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4.8 based on 47 reviews

Explore the Canadian Rockies in the best way with more inclusions such as a hike at Johnston Canyon, wine tasting in the Okanagan, and a cowboy ranch experience.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Breakfast, Breakfast, 3 nights hotel accommodation, Campfire with marshmallow roast, Enroute entertainment, games and prizes, Discounts on optional activities, All taxes, Coach transportation, Friendly, experienced tour guide

Exclusions: Additional Meal, Optional Activities, Travel Insurance

Reviewed By ChristineC5528

Really enjoyed the Thanksgiving 2020 trip to the Rockies. The scenery was stunning, the itinerary was packed and Luke and Nigel made it a great experience. Thanks!

10. 6-Day Halfway Lodge Backcountry Trip by Horseback

Warner Stables - Banff Trail Riders, 100 Sundance Rd, Banff, AB T1L 1B9, Canada Banff Trail Riders
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4.8 based on 10 reviews

The ultimate backcountry trip, few folks ever get to experience a place like this. Sky-piercing mountains stretch out across the landscape, their peaks crusted with ice and snow. The air is cool and fresh. And best of all, there’s an almost zen-like quiet out here. On this six-day, five night trip you’ll pass by the shimmering waters of the Bow River, travel along a historic pack trail and then ride up Allenby Pass, where jagged rock formations line the route. And although you do climb to an elevation of 8,100 feet on this trip, the terrain is gentle for the entire way. And for all the rugged scenery you’ll get to gaze at on this trek, the adventure itself is far from ‘roughing it.’ Unwind in rustic luxury at the spacious Sundance Lodge and later at the cozy Halfway Lodge – both quintessential mountain cabins with comfortable beds. Please note that this trip departs on Sundays and Thursdays from late June to early September.

Inclusions: 5 nights accommodation, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Breakfast, Breakfast, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch, Dinner, Dinner, Lunch, Lunch, Lunch, Breakfast, Dinner, Professional guide, Helmets (mandatory for riders under 18 years)

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Gratuities, Hotel pickup and drop-off, Transportation to/from attractions, National Park Entry Fee

Reviewed By GEOS30

Overall an enjoyable experience. A bit pricey, and not something you would do that often. They had really good COVID protocols in place, everything seemed cleaned and sanitized. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and the sleigh ride was quite enjoyable.

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