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Travelers stand on a rocky shoreline overlooking turquoise water surrounded by snow-covered pine trees in the Canadian Rockies near Banff, Alberta.
Alberta

Christmas in the Canadian Rockies

Program No. 16593RJ
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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
12 meals ( 5B, 3L, 4D )
3 expert-led lectures
5 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 4:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag.
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 4:00 p.m. After checking in and receiving your room assignment, please join us at the Road Scholar table to meet your Group Leader, receive any updated program information, and confirm the time and location of the welcome dinner and orientation. If you arrive after registration has ended, please locate your Group Leader to let them know you have arrived.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
Orientation: 8:00 p.m. Following dinner, the Group Leader will welcome everyone, lead introductions, and review the program schedule, logistics, safety information, and answer any questions. Throughout the program, local experts will present lectures and lead engaging field trips. Program-related travel will be by private motorcoach unless otherwise noted. Periods designated as "Free Time" or "At Leisure" are yours to relax or explore at your own pace. Your Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Settle in, get to know your fellow Road Scholars, and enjoy a good night's rest before tomorrow's adventures.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach, walking up to 2 miles, over 3.5 hours on pavement and boardwalks; slippery terrain with snow or ice. Mileage and routing for the motorcoach exploration will be weather dependent. Dress warmly in layers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning, we’ll enjoy two engaging presentations from local experts. First, discover Indigenous perspectives on living in harmony with the land, including traditional ways of life, trade, tools, and the use of native plants that have supported communities for generations. Next, uncover the fascinating geological story of the Canadian Rockies and discover how ancient geological forces shaped the iconic peaks and valleys.
Lunch:
At the hotel.
Afternoon:
A short minibus ride will take us to Johnston Canyon: one of Banff’s most popular hiking experiences. This stunning trail winds through dense evergreen forest, following a deep limestone gorge carved by glacial meltwater. Suspended catwalks lead you along canyon walls to two stunning waterfalls: the Lower Falls, tucked into a cave-like alcove, and the Upper Falls, cascading dramatically into a narrow pool below. Open year-round, the trail takes on a whole new magic in winter, when the canyon freezes into a wonderland of icy formations. Our guide will take us through this unique experience as we learn about the area’s special geology, wildlife, and history.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy outdoor festivities at the holiday bonfire or relax by the fireplace. Alternatively, stroll through the town of Banff and admire the decorations.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; walking up to 1 mile, over 1.5 hours; slippery terrain with snow or ice; dress warmly in layers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll travel by motorcoach to the Whyte Museum, where a local expert will introduce us to the “Women of the Rockies” and the remarkable women who helped shape mountain culture through exploration, ranching, climbing, science, writing, and art. Explore the historic homes of Whyte Museum founders Peter and Catharine (Robb) Whyte, along with the home of collectors Phillip and Pearl (Brewster) Moore, and discover the stories, passions, and legacies of those who made the Rockies their home. We’ll also visit the museum galleries, including “Gateway to the Rockies,” and learn about the explorers, guides, artists, and conservationists who helped shape this iconic landscape. The museum’s collections also highlight the rich art, culture, and history of the Canadian Rockies and Stoney First Nation. Afterwards, we’ll return to the hotel by motorcoach.
Lunch:
On your own. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Free Time: This period has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Your Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the time scheduled for independent exploration is subject to change depending on local circumstances. There are few places more magical than Banff at Christmastime. Snow blankets the streets, frost-covered trees frame the surrounding mountains, and festive lights create a warm holiday atmosphere throughout the charming town. Enjoy the sights, browse the local shops, or simply soak in the seasonal cheer at your own pace.
Dinner:
On your own.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Walking up to 1 mile during morning field trip, slippery terrain with snow or ice. Dress warmly in layers. Extent and duration of walking and other free time activities according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Today we’ll head up Sulphur Mountain in a four-passenger, glass-enclosed gondola (weather permitting). As we ride, we will have a 360-degree view of the breathtaking Rockies. If you brought your camera, feel free to take a picture of the amazing view from the top! Afterwards, we'll transfer by coach to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site. We'll explore Banff's natural heritage and share a discovery that changed the course of history at Cave and Basin. In 1883, hot springs were discovered by CPR railway workers, and the notion to protect natural and cultural treasures in Canada was born shortly thereafter. Stand in the dramatic spot that started it all. Watch plumes of billowing, sulphureous steam coming from the cave’s vent hole. See colourful lights shimmering in an underground Cave. Marvel from raised boardwalks at breathtaking Bow Valley.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
This afternoon we’ll visit the iconic Banff Upper Hot Springs. High on Sulphur Mountain, these natural Springs have been a cherished experience since 1886. The geothermal water rich in natural minerals emerges from deep within the earth, feeding a steaming outdoor pool surrounded by the snowy peaks of Rundle and Cascade Mountains. The surrounding peaks, fresh mountain air, and warm water combine for an unforgettable experience. Inside, the heritage bathhouse features exhibits on the origin of hot springs and their lasting cultural importance in the region. From the comfort of the heritage bathhouse, explore exhibits that trace the springs’ geologic and cultural story, from Indigenous use to Victorian tourism.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Feel free to attend midnight service or just relax at the hotel. Information on church services will be supplied to you on arrival at the hotel.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking less than 1 mile on paved walkways; some stairs; slippery terrain with snow or ice. Dress warmly in layers
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Free time to attend a church service or take part in Christmas activities. Information will be provided on area services and activities available on Christmas Day.
Lunch:
We will enjoy an afternoon tea at Fairmount Banff Springs, Canada's "Castle in the Rockies". A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the world-famous Fairmont Banff Springs resort stands as a landmark in the picturesque alpine town of Banff. The grandeur of the holiday décor will add to this special experience. See why few hotels in the world can rival its majesty, hospitality and location. We will enjoy a festive-themed afternoon tea while overlooking the breathtaking view of the snow-capped mountains at the Banff Springs Hotel.
Afternoon:
Free time.
Dinner:
We’ll enjoy a spectacular Christmas feast in a private room at the hotel. Mix and mingle until the festive meal begins. Share 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
Hotel check-out by 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. 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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Please Note: This program has itinerary variations on certain dates.
Dec 21, 2026 - Dec 26, 2026
Dec 21, 2027 - Dec 26, 2027
Dec 21 - Dec 26, 2026 Itinerary Differences: This program includes a stay at one of Banff’s premier luxury hotels, Rimrock Banff, offering exceptional comfort, service, and amenities to enhance your Christmas holiday experience.