Banff, Kootenay & Yoho National Parks

How long does a trip last? Not in duration. In memories. In the stories you'll tell friends. In the spare minutes when you think back to that hike to Yoho Lake - when you looked in awe across to Takakkaw Falls and your leader quietly mentioned it's the second highest in Canada and you're amazed that there could be a higher one. Then you think of the enormity of Plain of Six Glaciers. The intense blues of Moraine Lake. And the sun cutting over Lake Louise, across the jagged mountains that you didn't catch the names of. And in those brief seconds before you go back to real life, you'll realize your Canadian Rockies hiking adventure still isn't over. 

Day 1 World-class hiking in three phenomenal Canadian National Parks  In Kootenay, cross a vast wildfire burn area, discovering new-growth forest with pink fireweed juxtaposed against yellow columbine Venture into a hanging valley for an up-close look at incredible Stanley Glacier.

Day 2 A forest trail carpeted with buttercups and bunchberry takes you to milky blue Sherbrooke Lake, the largest backcountry glacial lake in Yoho National Park  Climb to Paget Lookout for staggering views of pristine glaciers, soaring peaks and emerald lakes  Enjoy downtime on the patio of your log cabin at Cathedral Mountain Lodge.

Day 3 Walk through evergreen forests and blooming meadows to behold sensational Wapta Icefields and Yoho Glacier Standing in awe before Canada's second-highest waterfall, it all makes sense: Takakkaw is Cree for "it is wonderful" Walk along the shore of Emerald Lake, right to the door of your room at beautiful Emerald Lake Lodge.

Day 4 The elegant Post Hotel, blending old-world charm with modern sophistication  Climb to one of Banff National Park's most stunning alpine pastures, alive with wildflowers and whistles of wildlife Hunting great photo ops? Take aim at Crowfoot Glacier and Helen Lake.

Days 5-6 Impossibly blue Lake Louise  Switchbacks lead to breathtaking Larch Valley and marvelous views of the ten Wenkchemna Peaks Savor the Post Hotel's exquisite cuisine - and perhaps some pampering at the spa! Commune with mountain goats, pikas and hoary marmots Hike the classic route from world-renowned Lake Louise to the historic Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse.