Night 1
Hotel in Calgary
Calgary is a metropolitan city with tons of restaurants and attractions to see, so you may not be spending much time in your room here!
Winter Rockies Self-Drive Tour
Prices
Highlights
Discover the beauty and unbeatable adventure in the Canadian Rocky Mountains during the winter
The spectacular Canadian Rocky Mountains attract visitors from around the world in the summer, but during the winter they become a beautiful snowy playground for skiers and adventurous travellers. The Winter Rockies Self-Drive Tour is a relaxed self-driving itinerary that offers longer stays in each stop, so you can fill each day with your favourite winter activities.
This tour spends two nights each in Banff and Jasper so that you can ski, hike, and enjoy the atmosphere of these mountain villages. Then you’ll go for the drive of your life on the incredible Columbia Icefields Parkway. On your way to Yoho National Park, you can visit the incomparable Lake Louise and the unusual ice bubbles at Lake Abraham. On top of skiing and hiking, you’ll have to chance to have unique winter experiences like dog sledding, heli-snowshoeing, and trekking to icefalls. This unique road trip is the perfect way to combine exciting outdoor adventures with incredible sightseeing through the famous Rocky Mountain national parks.
Winter Rockies Self-Drive Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in Calgary
Today your tour begins, and you can pick up your rental vehicle from the Calgary Airport when your flight arrives. Get settled at your hotel and then head out to explore the city.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Calgary
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Day 2 Your Mountain Adventure Begins
In the morning, you’ll drive towards the mountains that have already been calling to you since you arrived in Alberta. Enjoy the beautiful winter scenery as you drive into Banff.
Spend the afternoon exploring the charming mountain village and take the cable car to the top of Sulfur Mountain for a spectacular panoramic view. End the day with a relaxing soak as you take in the views from the hot springs.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Banff
- Distance
- 127km
- Meals
- None
Day 3 Skiing or Hiking in Banff
Ski enthusiasts are spoiled for choice in Banff and can spend the day on the slopes at Sunshine Village or Mount Norquay. You can also take an exciting guided excursion into Johnston Canyon and go for an ice walk to explore frozen waterfalls including the Johnston Canyon Upper Falls, known as the Cathedral of Ice during the winter months.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Banff
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- None
Day 4 Drive the Famous Icefields Parkway
Continue your journey through the mountains on the spectacular Columbia Icefields Parkway. You’ll want to stop often to take in the incredible mountain views of peaks, glaciers, and frozen waterfalls on your way to Jasper. Tonight, you’ll check in for the first of two nights in Jasper.
Please note, that Icefields Parkway route is not maintained during the winter, therefore in some cases the detour might be required.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Jasper
- Distance
- 288km
- Meals
- None
Day 5 Snow and Stars in Jasper
Today you have a full day to explore the mountain town of Jasper. You can go hiking or skiing on the nearby hills or take the optional winter wildlife tour to learn how to spot local animals during the winter.
The Jasper sky is part of the Dark Sky Preserve and is an excellent place to try to catch a glimpse of the northern lights. You can visit the planetarium in the evening and observe the aurora borealis from their outdoor telescope for a night of stargazing you’ll never forget.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Jasper
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- None
Day 6 Frozen Lakes and Mountains Drive
You’ll find yourself back on the magnificent Icefields Parkway today as your drive to Field. Stop at Lake Abraham to see its strange and beautiful frozen bubbles. You can opt to take a helicopter snowshoeing tour to see the area from another spectacular vantage point.
Your next stop will be at Lake Louise, where you can stop for lunch in the village and enjoy the iconic view of the lake and the mountains beyond. Then it’s on to Yoho National Park where you’ll find your lodge in Field at Emerald Lake.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Field
- Distance
- 263km
- Meals
- None
Day 7 Enjoy the Snow in Yoho National Park
The beauty of your surroundings may call you to stay at the lodge today to relax and enjoy the peaceful winter's day at the lake. However, whether you’re in the mood for downhill skiing, xc skiing, or snowshoeing, you’re sure to find that Yoho National Park has something wonderful in store for you today.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Field
- Distance
- None
- Meals
- None
Day 8 Discover the Kananaskis Valley
Drive through the snow-covered mountains to Kananaskis. On the way, you can make a final stop in Banff or visit the nearby mountain town of Canmore. When you arrive in Kananaskis, you can take a dog sledding excursion to explore the valley and look for wildlife. This is also a great ski area if you want to spend a final day on the slopes or the trails.
- Overnight Location
- Hotel in Kananaskis
- Distance
- 131km
- Meals
- None
Day 9 Tour Ends in Calgary
Today your tour officially concludes when you return your rental vehicle to the Calgary Airport in time to catch your flight.
- Overnight Location
- None
- Distance
- 117km
- Meals
- None
Winter Rockies Self-Drive Tour Price and Dates
This self-guided winter tour of the Rockies is run as private tour for your group only, and the price per person depends on how many people are in your group.
Prices below are per person:
- Self-Guided Groups of 2+: $1,295USD per person
Accommodation on the Winter Rockies Self-Drive Tour
This tour is based in hotels. Hotels on this trip are 3-star and offer modern conveniences and will welcome you with comfortable rooms.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are double occupancy. Single rooms, including those for solo travellers, are by request and may incur an additional fee.
Night 2-3
Hotel in Banff
Revel in this iconic mountain town that has graced many magazine covers. Wander the charming streets and admire the peaks around you.
Night 4-5
Hotel in Jasper
Relax in a cozy 3-star standard hotel surrounded by immense mountains. Stroll the streets and take your pick of various top-notch restaurants and bars.
Night 6-7
Hotel in Field
Rest up in Field in your welcoming hotel, which keeps you close to all that this little town offers.
Night 8
Hotel in Kananaskis
Get a room in a comfortable 3-star standard hotel at the foothills of Kananaskis Country. Enjoy being surrounded by nature.
Hotels on Standard Tour
What’s Included in the Winter Rockies Self-Drive Tour?
Meals
There are no meals included in this tour.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 8 nights are included. Accommodations before and after the tour in Calgary are not included but can be added as a supplement.
Transportation during the Tour
This is a self-drive tour, so you’ll be provided with a rental vehicle for the duration of the itinerary.
Also Included
- Standard vehicle rental, Category B
- Canadian taxes
- 24/7 access to helpline
Not included
- Flights
- Guide
- Travel insurance
- Visas if required
- Entrance fees to national parks
- Admission to attractions, including the Banff Hot Springs and planetarium in Jasper
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Gratuities for tour guides or other staff if desired
- Personal expenses
- Optional activities
- Ski and equipment rental
- Vehicle insurance
- Fuel
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Single occupancy
- Optional activities or excursions:
-
- Sulfur Mountain cable car
- Banff Upper Hot Springs entry
- Ski/Snowboard equipment rental and lift tickets
- Ice walk at Johnston Canyon
- Entrance to the planetarium and telescope stargazing
- Winter wildlife tour in Jasper
- Helicopter and snowshoe tour at Abraham Lake
- Dog sledding in Kananaskis
Frequenty Asked Questions about Winter Rockies Self-Drive Tour
How hard is the Winter Rockies Self-Drive Tour?
We rate this tour as a 2/5. This tour has a flexible itinerary that allows you to choose your hikes and ski activities so that you can tailor them to your fitness level. If you choose to ski, there are trails and runs appropriate for all skill levels, and the ski hills offer lessons that we recommend you book in advance.
Is my driver’s licence valid in Canada?
Most standard driver’s licences are valid in Canada; however, International Drivers Permit might be required, or some exemptions might apply. Please check this source about driving with foreign license in Canada.
Is the vehicle insurance included?
No, vehicle insurance is not included in the package. We strongly suggest having one for this tour to avoid liability in case there is damage caused to the vehicle. You can either book vehicle insurance during the booking process, or get one by yourself.
I’ve never been on a self-guided trip! How does it work?
Self-guided travelling is not difficult! For many, it is a preferred type of travel, since you are in charge of your own time and pace. You are provided with all the information you’ll need to follow the route each day and often have access to phone support or other kinds of assistance. However, self-guided travelling requires good navigation skills and those who don’t feel confident in unknown places should consider booking guided tours.
Do I need a visa to travel to Canada?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Winter Rockies Self-Drive Tour?
There are no meals included in this tour.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover all included activities. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Calgary to start this tour?
Fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC), and you will pick up your rental vehicle from the airport.
Is the Winter Rockies Self-Drive Tour in English?
This is a self-guided tour, and the route guide, maps, and programs will be supplied in English.
Where does the Winter Rockies Self-Drive Tour end?
This tour ends at the Calgary International Airport (YYC), where you can drop off your rental vehicle.
Can I rent skis?
Yes, all of the ski hills on your route offer ski equipment rental. You will be able to rent downhill skis, cross-country skis, and snowboards as well as safety equipment.
Can I bring my own skis?
Yes. You are welcome to bring your own ski equipment, however, please be aware that your rental vehicle does not include ski racks and may not be able to easily accommodate your skis. Please discuss your options with us if you’d prefer to bring your equipment.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Canada?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Canada?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Canada for this tour?
The best time to travel to the Rocky Mountains for this tour is during the winter to enjoy the freshest snow and winter activities. This tour is available from December to March.
Reviews
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Details of the local tour operator will be listed on your booking invoice. If you have questions about the local operator prior to booking, please click the “Ask a Question” button below.
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Stephen L.
I’ve been using 10Adventures route guides for a while, but had never booked a tour. My wife and I booked a self-guided hike in Greece and were so impressed with how we were able navigate the route without a guide with the detailed and easy to follow itinerary. We enjoy travelling independently, and 10Adventures made that happen.
Melinda S.
I was going through a tough time and really needed a getaway so I decided to book a tour through 10Adventures. My trip to Peru changed my life in so many positive and eye-opening ways. I am so thankful for the kind, empathetic team at 10Adventures.
Lina K.
I’ve adventured around a lot of Canada and the US, but I’ve always wanted to explore other parts of the world. I felt a bit scared before booking my trip to Israel, but my conversations with the team at 10Adventures helped ease any worry. I can’t wait to explore more of the world!
Gabriela H.
Travel companies have had to go through a lot during the pandemic but 10Adventures were super flexible and accommodating nonetheless. I had to cancel my tour in France due to the pandemic. 10Adventures was great and let me reschedule for a later date!
Mikael V.
My wife Sarah and I had a great experience booking our 7-day cycling trip through Portugal via 10Adventures. The communication between us and Nadine leading up the trip was top-notch!
Alexandra D.
Communicating with 10Adventures feels like talking with a family-run business. I love to explore and travel, and exploring with the comfort of knowing I can talk to the team at 10Adventures with almost immediate feedback helps to ease any stress that comes with adventuring!
Eric S.
Whenever I’m looking for my next adventure 10Adventures never fails. Their routes all over England are my main go to for exploring and I have only had great experiences booking both guided and self-guided trips in Europe and South America with them. I am looking into Africa next.
Valeria R.
I tend to have a lot of questions before travelling and was so happy to find that the team at 10Adventures responded to every single one of my inquiries in a timely fashion. I was never left waiting and waiting for a response. This was much appreciated!
Isabella N.
I have horrible dietary issues making it super hard to book a pre-planned trip sometimes, but the communication through 10Adventures helped me navigate this situation! I am so grateful for all of their help. I cant wait to book with them again!
Erika S.
I just got back from backpacking in the Sierra Nevada, and WOW. What an unreal journey! The alpine meadows, waterfalls, and the lakeside camping spot were memorable highlights! I wonder what other tours 10Adventures has to offer. That one went so well that I am now convinced I need to book another!
Robert D.
I'm not a big fan of traveling because of my fear of flying, but my girlfriend convinced me to go on the Aurora Borealis Tour in the Yukon. I will never forget the mesmerizing northern lights. Such a romantic (and cold) getaway. I would highly recommend it.
Monica L.
Wow! I am so happy with the experience I had with booking through 10Adventures for my tour in Italy! I worked with Nadine and she was super easy-going and helpful when it came to tweaking the itinerary provided on the website. 10/10 would book through 10Adventures again.
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Why 10Adventures?
Rated 4.9 on Google Reviews
Tour Difficulty
We rate this tour as a 2/5. This tour has a flexible itinerary that allows you to choose your hikes and ski activities so that you can tailor them to your fitness level. If you choose to ski, there are trails and runs appropriate for all skill levels, and the ski hills offer lessons that we recommend you book in advance.
Read about our scale for Tour Difficulty Ratings.
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