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Snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies reflect in the turquoise waters of a lake in Banff National Park, Alberta.
Alberta

Best of Banff: Our Mountain Heritage

Program No. 13178RJ
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Itinerary
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. Read More.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
Included
11 meals ( 5B, 3L, 3D )
3 expert-led lectures
7 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Banff, Alberta
Best of Banff: Our Mountain Heritage
Sep 19 - Sep 24, 2027
Program Number 13178
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Activity Note
Road Scholar shuttle from Calgary International Airport at 3:00 p.m. Getting on/off a motorcoach; approximately 88 miles of travel (about 2 hours) to the hotel. Check-in begins at 4:00 p.m. Please remember to bring your nametag.
Afternoon:
Our group will travel by coach from the airport to the hotel, with an expected arrival time of approximately 5:00 p.m. During the transfer, your Group Leader will provide any immediate updates and confirm the time and location for dinner and orientation. If you arrive to the hotel separately from the group, please connect with your Group Leader to let them know you’ve arrived. Once you’ve settled into your room, take some time to freshen up and relax before joining us for dinner.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
The Group Leader will welcome everyone and lead introductions. We’ll then take a few minutes to review the program schedule, go over roles and logistics, cover important safety information, and answer any questions you may have.

Any time marked “Free Time” or “At Leisure” is yours to enjoy, whether that means exploring, relaxing, or choosing activities that interest you most. Your Group Leader is always happy to share suggestions.

Please keep in mind that schedules, activities, personnel, and estimated times or distances may occasionally shift due to local conditions. If any changes are needed, we’ll let you know as soon as possible. We appreciate your flexibility and understanding.

The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy. Take this opportunity to connect with fellow participants, unwind, and rest up for the exciting day ahead, or head out and explore the town at your own pace.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the course of the day; some stairs at historic site (can be avoided). Getting on/off a gondola. Elevation of 7500 feet. Note: cameras are permitted on gondola ride.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board our motorcoach and ride to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site. In a private room, we will be joined by a local expert who will introduce us to the dramatic geological story of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. We’ll gain a deeper understanding of the natural forces that shaped this rugged landscape and discover the differences between the Front and Main Ranges. The talk will also explore the concept of the “Ring of Fire” and the powerful role of plate tectonics in shaping the region.

Following the presentation, we’ll set out to uncover the fascinating story of Banff’s thermal hot springs — from their deep Indigenous significance and historic architecture to the mysterious cave that inspired the creation of Canada’s national parks. We’ll also learn about the unique ecosystem that supports the tiny, endangered Banff Springs Snail.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We’ll ride up Sulphur Mountain in a four-passenger, glass-enclosed gondola (weather permitting), taking in breathtaking 360-degree views of the Rockies along the way. At the top, enjoy time to explore, take photos, and, if you wish, walk along the summit boardwalk for even more spectacular views.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
Spend the evening at your own pace, whether unwinding or exploring.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the course of the day. Driving about 150 miles, approximately 4 hours riding time throughout the day.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning, we’ll be joined by a local expert who will share insights into how Indigenous peoples live in harmony with the rhythms of the earth. We’ll learn how everything needed for daily life comes from the land, explore traditional trade between nations, and discover the tools and medicinal plants that were used for generations. This engaging, one-hour interactive session will include time for questions at the end.

Following the presentation, we’ll travel by motorcoach along the Icefields Parkway, one of Canada’s most spectacular scenic routes. As we journey through a lake-lined mountain valley and cross the Continental Divide, we’ll take in sweeping views of the Canadian Rockies. Along the way, we’ll visit notable locations such as Peyto Lake and Bow Lake.
Lunch:
En route we’ll enjoy a boxed lunch from a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
This afternoon we’ll visit Kootenay National Park, where we’ll experience a different yet equally striking landscape shaped by glaciers, rivers, and dramatic mountain terrain. Along the way, we’ll gain insight into the natural and cultural history that has shaped these remarkable places.
Dinner:
On your own; your Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
Enjoy the evening at your leisure, whether relaxing or discovering the surroundings.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking up to 2 miles throughout the course of the day. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will travel by motorcoach to the Whyte Museum, one of Banff's most culturally significant museums, where we will attend a presentation by a local historian on the Women of the Rockies. We’ll learn about the legendary women who influenced backcountry travel, ranching, climbing, scientific research, writing, drama and art in this area.

Afterwards, we will explore the Whyte Museum even further and learn about the remarkable history of the locals and their cultural past through self-led exploration. The museum features an art gallery and a vast collection of photographs telling the history of early explorers, artists and the Canadian Pacific Railway. Then take a walk back in time and get to know the colorful individuals who built the town of Banff. This expert-led walk meanders through history to take us near the riverside site where Tom Wilson established one of the first outfitting operations in the area, St. Georges-in-the-Pines Anglican Church with its unique stained-glass windows, and the Luxton Home and Garden. These and many other intriguing stops reveal the fascinating history of this town.
Lunch:
Lunch on your own to discover neighborhood eateries.
Afternoon:
This time period has been set aside for your personal exploration, enjoy the opportunity to see and do what interests you most. Your Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
Dinner independently to enjoy regional cuisine.
Evening:
Unwind or wander—this evening is yours to enjoy however you like.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 120 miles, approximately 2.5 hours total riding time. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the course of the day; flat, groomed trails.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll travel by motorcoach to Lake Louise. En route, a local expert will highlight points of interest and share the history of the lake and surrounding area. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to explore the lakeshore and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise grounds. Those who wish may accompany our local expert on a lakeside walk, while others may continue exploring at their own pace.

Next, we’ll continue to Moraine Lake. Along the way, our local expert will provide additional insight into the area’s history. At the lake, we’ll walk together to the base of the Rockpile Trail. If you choose, you may climb the Rockpile with our local expert or remain at the lakeshore to explore independently.

After the optional walk, we’ll board the motorcoach and travel to the Field Visitor Centre in Yoho National Park, where we’ll stop to stretch our legs and have time to view the fossil exhibits.
Lunch:
At a scenic spot near the Visitor’s Centre, we’ll enjoy a boxed lunch from a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
This afternoon, we travel to Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park with our local expert. Due to its position on the west side of the Great Divide in Yoho National Park, we’ll have a fantastic view of not only Emerald Lake, but also the diverse habitats of the surrounding area, including a huge avalanche path, pine forest, a dry and dramatic alluvial fan, and the towering trees. We’ll take in the beauty of the landscape as we learn about the history behind this jewel of the Canadian Rockies. Along the way, discover the significance of the Burgess Shale Quarries.

Those who wish to will set out on a trail walk with our local expert to learn about the flora found on the western side of the Rockies. Those who choose not to go on the trail walk will have independent time to explore or relax. The local expert will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. Share your favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Road Scholar shuttle from Banff Hotel at 8:00 a.m. Getting on/off a motorcoach; approximately 88 miles of travel (about 2 hours) to the airport. Hotel check-out required by 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll check out of the hotel and transfer to Calgary International Airport (YYC); approximate arrival at the airport is 10:00 a.m. This concludes our program. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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