Wyoming/Montana/Alberta
The Best of the Grand Tetons to Banff: Iconic National Parks
Program No. 20524RJ
Explore six national parks — Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Glacier, Waterton, Banff and Jasper — and discover unique waypoints like Old Faithful, Many Glacier, Lake Louise and much more!
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DATES
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PRICES
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Sep 2 - Sep 13, 2025
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12 days
11 nights
30 meals
11B 9L 10D
1
Check-In, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Jackson Hole
3
Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park
Canyon Village
4
Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful Geyser
Canyon Village
8
Travel to Waterton, Buffalo Jump, Canmore
Canmore, AB
At a Glance
Prepare yourself for an adventure of monumental proportions — a journey through six national parks in Wyoming, Montana and Alberta Canada. The Rocky Mountain colossus must be seen to be appreciated, and your journey will take you to Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Glacier, Waterton, Banff and Jasper national parks. Experience famous waypoints like Jackson Hole, Old Faithful Geyser, Mammoth Hot Springs and Lake Louise as you learn about the geology, history, flora and fauna of the Rocky Mountains.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to one mile daily. Standing for up to three hours. Elevations up to 8,041 feet.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Visit the massive Columbia Icefield and venture by snowcoach onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier.
- Experience the Crown of the Continent via the Going-to-the-Sun Road as we traverse Logan Pass aboard Red Jammers in magnificent Glacier National Park.
- Discover Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, and witness an Aboriginal hunting practice that was used by Native people of the North American plains for almost 6,000 years.
General Notes
Transit days include one six-hour and two three-hour drives. Field trips and transit days include stops along the way, and motorcoach is equipped with a lavatory.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Cynthia Blankenship
Cynthia Blankenship fell in love with Earth science in 9th grade and never looked back. She is a geologist, outdoor enthusiast, and award-winning speaker. After two degrees in geology from Duke and Rice Universities, and 30 years in the energy industry, she is pursuing her next career passion: to make the geology of Jackson Hole understandable and fascinating for all. Through innovative displays and clear explanations, Cynthia will delight with a heightened understanding of the powerful forces that created this magical place.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Tim Raben
View biography
Tim Raben grew up in Rapid City, South Dakota, and graduated with a B.A. in history from the University of South Dakota. He has a M.A. degree in liberal arts from North Central College in Illinois. Tim and his wife, Karen, saw much of the country during his career in insurance and as business consultants. Tim is the board chair of the Badlands National Park Conservancy and past chair of the Journey Museum and Mount Rushmore Society.
Jack Gladstone
View biography
Jack Gladstone is a storysmith and troubadour from the Blackfeet Nation of Montana. Regarded as a cultural bridge builder, he produces programs on indigenous history and tradition. Jack has released 15 critically-acclaimed CDs, and garnered the prestigious Best Historical Recording from the Native American Music Association. A former college instructor and Smithsonian scholar, Jack has opened shows for Rita Coolidge, Garrison Keillor and Bonnie Raitt.
Morag Mottram
View biography
Morag Mottram was born in Scotland and immigrated with her parents to Toronto in 1964. She and her husband moved to Canmore in 2004. While managing the Banff Springs Hotel fitness facility, Morag started leading hikes and ran nature-based programs for various groups visiting the area. She is a past president of the board of directors of the Interpretive Guides Association. Morag plays the oboe and English horn in several ensembles in Calgary; she also enjoys traveling, cycling, hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, sewing, cooking, and reading.
Cynthia Blankenship
View biography
Cynthia Blankenship fell in love with Earth science in 9th grade and never looked back. She is a geologist, outdoor enthusiast, and award-winning speaker. After two degrees in geology from Duke and Rice Universities, and 30 years in the energy industry, she is pursuing her next career passion: to make the geology of Jackson Hole understandable and fascinating for all. Through innovative displays and clear explanations, Cynthia will delight with a heightened understanding of the powerful forces that created this magical place.
Nikki Heim
View biography
Nikki Heim has been working in the field of natural resource sciences for over 15 years throughout western Canada and the northwestern United States. She held roles in terrestrial wildlife ecology, focusing on understanding population dynamics of medium to large sized carnivores and promoting wildlife co-existence, gaining a foundation in landscape ecology and wildlife management. In her free time, you can find her in the woods playing with her pup Koda, hiking, skiing, climbing, or enjoying improving her skills in nature photography.
Suggested Reading List
(6 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
The Best of the Grand Tetons to Banff: Iconic National Parks
Program Number: 20524
Crown of the Continent
A professional naturalist's incredible, personal portrait of America's largest and most pristine wilderness in the lower 48 states: the Northern Continental Divide ecosystem in Montana, Alberta, and British Columbia. This vast area includes two national parks in two countries (Glacier National Park and Waterton Lakes in Canada), three designated wilderness areas including the famous Bob Marshall Wilderness. This book describes the area's geology, wildlife, plant life, and crucial environmental issues with over 150 stunning photographs.
Wildflowers of Glacier National Park
Wildflowers of Glacier National park and Surrounding Areas is a user-friendly guide featuring over 300 of Glacier National Park's most common plant species. From wildflowers to trees to grasses and sedges, this book features beautiful photographs, detailed descriptions, notes on habitat and fun facts for each plant. It's a perfect plant reference for anyone with an interest in the natural history and splendor of Glacier National Park.
Wildflowers of Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks
The purpose of this paperback book is to picture and describe the beautiful wildflowers of Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks as well as the other areas included in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem.
Empire of Shadows: The Epic Story of Yellowstone
Empire of Shadows is the epic story of the conquest of Yellowstone, a landscape uninhabited, inaccessible and shrouded in myth in the aftermath of the Civil War. In a radical reinterpretation of the nineteenth century West, George Black casts Yellowstone's creation as the culmination of three interwoven strands of history - the passion for exploration, the violence of the Indian Wars and the "civilizing" of the frontier - and charts its course through the lives of those who sought to lay bare its mysteries: Lt. Gustavus Cheyney Doane, a gifted but tormented cavalryman known as "the man who invented Wonderland"; the ambitious former vigilante leader Nathaniel Langford; scientist Ferdinand Hayden, who brought photographer William Henry Jackson and painter Thomas Moran to Yellowstone; and Gen. Phil Sheridan, Civil War hero and architect of the Indian Wars, who finally succeeded in having the new National Park placed under the protection of the US Cavalry. George Blacks Empire of Shadows is a groundbreaking historical account of the origins of Americas majestic national landmark.
The Great Divide: The Rocky Mountains in the American Mind
For most of our Nation's history, Americans have identified with the "purple mountain majesties" of the Rockies. Trappers and debutantes, miners and missionaries, artists and drinkers, escaped slaves, independent women abandoning hoopskirts, and assorted black sheep of respectable families have all sought refuge and inspiration there. This spectacular landscape has always offered a sense of freedom from crowds and conformity--a world, as Frederic Remington described it, "beyond derby hats and mortgages bearing eight percent." Gary Ferguson spins magnificent tales about the vivid characters who have peopled this majestic region, from the original Indian inhabitants and their interactions with European explorers, to the delirious victims of gold rush fever, to hippies in the Sixties, to today's adventure travelers in high-tech outerwear toting satellite phones into the wild. Throughout, he explores the ebbs and flows of America's attitude toward the vast expanses that embody our sense of freedom.
Rocky Mountains; Smithsonian Natural Histotry Series
The Rocky Mountains are one of the Earth's most spectacular geological features, containing vast stretches that remain wild and untamed. The diversity of life found along the Rockies' 2,000 mile range is so varied that the mountains are divided into three regions: the Northern, Central, and Southern Rocky Mountains. Scott A. Elias discusses the unique features of each region in his comprehensive natural history of "the backbone of the continent." Elias examines the physical environment of each of the three regions, looking at geology, important land forms, climatology, soils, water resources, and paleontology. reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals.
Program No.
20524
Duration
12 days
Program Begins
Jackson Hole
Program Concludes
Calgary
Activity Level
At a Glance
Prepare yourself for an adventure of monumental proportions — a journey through six national parks in Wyoming, Montana and Alberta Canada. The Rocky Mountain colossus must be seen to be appreciated, and your journey will take you to Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Glacier, Waterton, Banff and Jasper national parks. Experience famous waypoints like Jackson Hole, Old Faithful Geyser, Mammoth Hot Springs and Lake Louise as you learn about the geology, history, flora and fauna of the Rocky Mountains.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Visit the massive Columbia Icefield and venture by snowcoach onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier.
- Experience the Crown of the Continent via the Going-to-the-Sun Road as we traverse Logan Pass aboard Red Jammers in magnificent Glacier National Park.
- Discover Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, and witness an Aboriginal hunting practice that was used by Native people of the North American plains for almost 6,000 years.
General Notes
Transit days include one six-hour and two three-hour drives. Field trips and transit days include stops along the way, and motorcoach is equipped with a lavatory.
Featured Expert
Cynthia Blankenship
Cynthia Blankenship fell in love with Earth science in 9th grade and never looked back. She is a geologist, outdoor enthusiast, and award-winning speaker. After two degrees in geology from Duke and Rice Universities, and 30 years in the energy industry, she is pursuing her next career passion: to make the geology of Jackson Hole understandable and fascinating for all. Through innovative displays and clear explanations, Cynthia will delight with a heightened understanding of the powerful forces that created this magical place.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Tim Raben
Tim Raben grew up in Rapid City, South Dakota, and graduated with a B.A. in history from the University of South Dakota. He has a M.A. degree in liberal arts from North Central College in Illinois. Tim and his wife, Karen, saw much of the country during his career in insurance and as business consultants. Tim is the board chair of the Badlands National Park Conservancy and past chair of the Journey Museum and Mount Rushmore Society.
Jack Gladstone
Jack Gladstone is a storysmith and troubadour from the Blackfeet Nation of Montana. Regarded as a cultural bridge builder, he produces programs on indigenous history and tradition. Jack has released 15 critically-acclaimed CDs, and garnered the prestigious Best Historical Recording from the Native American Music Association. A former college instructor and Smithsonian scholar, Jack has opened shows for Rita Coolidge, Garrison Keillor and Bonnie Raitt.
Morag Mottram
Morag Mottram was born in Scotland and immigrated with her parents to Toronto in 1964. She and her husband moved to Canmore in 2004. While managing the Banff Springs Hotel fitness facility, Morag started leading hikes and ran nature-based programs for various groups visiting the area. She is a past president of the board of directors of the Interpretive Guides Association. Morag plays the oboe and English horn in several ensembles in Calgary; she also enjoys traveling, cycling, hiking, kayaking, snowshoeing, sewing, cooking, and reading.
Nikki Heim
Nikki Heim has been working in the field of natural resource sciences for over 15 years throughout western Canada and the northwestern United States. She held roles in terrestrial wildlife ecology, focusing on understanding population dynamics of medium to large sized carnivores and promoting wildlife co-existence, gaining a foundation in landscape ecology and wildlife management. In her free time, you can find her in the woods playing with her pup Koda, hiking, skiing, climbing, or enjoying improving her skills in nature photography.
Activity Level
On Your Feet
Walking up to one mile daily. Standing for up to three hours. Elevations up to 8,041 feet.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List: 6 Books
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
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
12 days
11 nights
What's Included
30 meals | 11B | 9L | 10D |
6 expert-led lectures
17 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
11 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
Check-In, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Jackson Hole
Meals:
D
Stay:
The Rockwell Inn
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 PM. Remember to bring your Road Scholar nametag (sent previously). The elevation of the hotel is 6,237 feet.
Afternoon:
At the time of check-in, collect your Road Scholar Welcome Packet from the front desk. In the packet you will find information regarding program details including the location of orientation. The program orientation will begin at 4:30 PM. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. They will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. There may be some light paperwork at the end of the orientation session. If you don't arrive in time for orientation, please refer to your welcome packet on how to locate the Group Leader and get caught up on any information you may have missed. Lectures and field trips will be led by local experts and a knowledgeable Group Leader. Transportation for program-related activities will be via motorcoach and Red Jammers, unless specified otherwise. Periods in the daily schedule designated as "Free time" and "At leisure" offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distance or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow participants, settle in, and get a good night’s sleep for the day ahead.
Day
2
Natural History Presentation, Grand Teton National Park
Location:
Jackson Hole
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
The Rockwell Inn
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 90 miles, approximately 2.5 hours total drive time with multiple stops.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We'll kick off our discovery of the Rocky Mountains with a natural history presentation with a local expert as they present on the fascinating geology and history of this majestic park. With snow-etched mountain peaks, lush meadows, sparkling bodies of water, and an impressive array of wildlife, Grand Teton is an unmeasurable vista for the eyes. Today we’ll be joined by a local Tetons expert who will guide us through the park, pointing out geologic features, glacial movement and unique highlights while explaining the creation of the Tetons. Our local expert will also delve into the lush flora and fauna that live just below the towering peaks.
Lunch:
At a restaurant inside the park.
Afternoon:
We'll stop at the Snake River overlook where Ansel Adams captured early, iconic photographs of the area's beauty. We'll also stop at the iconic Mormon Row, where we'll learn about the hearty homesteaders that first arrived here in the 1890s. As we make our way back to Jackson, be on the lookout for bison, moose, elk and pronghorn grazing in the sage steppe. Later, we'll have free time to explore Jackson's vibrant western downtown and the famous antler arches of the town square.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like in Jackson. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
3
Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park
Location:
Canyon Village
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Canyon Village Lodge
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 170 miles, approximately 4.5 hours total drive time. Multiple stops are made along the route. Walking up to one mile.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
On our way to Yellowstone, we'll stop and explore the historic Jackson Lake Lodge. Built on a grand scale, this 1950's lodge has sixty-foot-high windows that perfectly frame the Teton range. As we begin our Yellowstone National Park exploration we'll first stop at the West Thumb Geyser Basin. Hydrothermal features are fragile rarities of nature. Yellowstone National Park preserves the largest collection of hydrothermal features on the planet. You'll have an unparalleled opportunity to view hot springs, geysers, mudpots, and fumaroles in a natural setting. Twin Geysers, the Abyss Pool, Black Pool, Lakeshore Geyser and Thumb Paint Pots are just a few of the amazing features we'll explore in the West Thumb caldera.
Lunch:
Boxed lunch in Yellowstone National Park.
Afternoon:
As we travel deeper into the heart of Yellowstone, keep your eyes sharpened as we pass through Hayden Valley. This lush area is a hot spot for bison, bears, and other wildlife. At the north end of Hayden lies the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. This magnificent canyon formed after a huge volcanic eruption and subsequent lava flow. The soft rock was easily eroded by the Yellowstone River creating one of the most magical views in Yellowstone - the Lower Falls from Artist Point. Framed by the canyon walls the Yellowstone River thunders more than 308 feet over Lower Falls, creating a dynamic focal point. The canyon is also home to birds of prey such as bald eagles and osprey. Later this afternoon we'll check into Canyon Village.
Dinner:
At Canyon Eatery in Yellowstone.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow participants or explore more of the beauty of Yellowstone as you take a stroll around Canyon Village. If open, consider exploring the Canyon Village Educational Center to learn more about the dramatic landscape that surrounds you.
Day
4
Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful Geyser
Location:
Canyon Village
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Canyon Village Lodge
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 100 miles, approximately 4.5 hours total drive time. Opportunities to step out and explore stops on boardwalks and paths, walking up to one mile.
Breakfast:
At Canyon Eatery in Yellowstone.
Morning:
Yellowstone National Park boasts one of the most extreme, rare, and fragile hydrothermal ecosystems in the world. Today we’ll be joined by a local Yellowstone expert who will educate and guide us through the history, creation, and exploration of these unique formations. Old Faithful Geyser is neither the tallest nor the most frequently erupting geyser in Yellowstone, but that doesn’t stop it from being the most iconic feature in the park. We’ll make a stop at Old Faithful and discover why it's the most popular geyser and the history behind its predictableness, as well as learn about the surrounding geyser formations.
Lunch:
At Old Faithful Cafeteria.
Afternoon:
We’ll continue to learn more about Yellowstone’s rare and fragile ecosystems as we progress through the heart of Yellowstone with our local expert guide.
Dinner:
At Canyon Eatery in Yellowstone.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
5
Mammoth Hot Springs, Travel to Helena
Location:
Helena
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Delta Hotels by Marriott Helena Colonial
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 220 miles, approximately 4 hours total drive time. Opportunities to step out and explore stops on boardwalks and paths, walking up to one mile.
Breakfast:
At Canyon Eatery in Yellowstone.
Morning:
This morning we'll continue our exploration of Yellowstone with our Group Leader as we depart by motorcoach to Mammoth Hot Springs. Mammoth Hot Springs is a large complex of hot springs flowing down a hill of travertine. Deposits of calcium carbonate create the unique appearance of a snow terraced landscape. Boardwalks will get us up close and personal with these amazing formations. Mammoth also serves as the Park headquarters and radiates a unique history of its own. It features some of the oldest buildings in the Park, including structures from the days when the U.S. Army managed Yellowstone.
Lunch:
Boxed lunch in Yellowstone.
Afternoon:
This afternoon we'll make our way to Montana's capital city, Helena, where we'll check into our hotel. Helena will be a one-night stop along the way to our Glacier National Park destination.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
Following dinner, we will prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning to Glacier National Park.
Day
6
Glacier Park Lodge, Cultural Presentation, Many Glacier
Location:
Many Glacier
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Many Glacier Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 245 miles, approximately 4.5 hours total drive time. There will be restroom stops and time to stretch your legs along the way.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After checking out of Helena Colonial, we'll travel northeast by motorcoach to Glacier National Park with restroom stops and time to stretch our legs along the way.
Lunch:
Boxed lunch en route.
Afternoon:
This afternoon we’ll take the opportunity to stroll through the historic Glacier Park Lodge and get a feel for the architectural ingenuity of this beautiful lodge. With its massive Douglas Fir and Cedars supporting the main structure, the logs and timbers are an art-form in themselves. Following our lodge exploration, we’ll gather for a presentation from a local member of the Blackfeet Nation. We’ll learn about the local culture and its importance to Glacier National Park. After the presentation, we will board the motorcoach and drive about 1.5 hours to the Many Glacier Valley where we'll check in to Many Glacier Hotel. Many Glacier Hotel was built in 1914 by the Great Northern Railway as a destination resort for its rail tourists. The hotel sits among soaring peaks and glassy lakes.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Many Glacier Hotel is a spectacular site set in one of the most scenic National Parks. It boasts amazing views, a plethora of wildlife and a relaxing atmosphere to help you wind down after a day of travel.
Day
7
Explore Glacier National Park via the Going-to-the-Sun Road
Location:
Many Glacier
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Many Glacier Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off historic Red Jammer. Driving about 80 miles, approximately 4 hours total drive time. There will be opportunities to get out and stretch your legs as well as visit the Logan Pass Visitor Center. There will be opportunities for restroom breaks along the way. Maximum elevation of 6,647 feet.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Free time. This morning take the opportunity to relax on the deck at Many Glacier Hotel looking over the shores of Swiftcurrent Lake. Your Group Leader will be happy to give you suggestions of activities for the morning, as there are several surrounding the historic hotel.
Lunch:
At the hotel.
Afternoon:
Glacier National Park, named for the glaciers that carved it, is the undisputed “Crown of the Continent.” Over one million wild acres crown the Continental Divide, a place where lush green parklands join towering, jagged peaks sporting some of the world’s oldest rock. Glacier has been described as one of the most intact natural ecosystems in the lower 48 states. Today, we’ll have the unique opportunity to explore the park’s diverse ecosystem by traveling the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road via historic Red Jammer open-top buses. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a Historic Landmark, a testament to human ingenuity, and the only road that traverses Glacier National Park. Located along the Going-to-the-Sun-Road is Logan Pass. We’ll make a stop at Logan Pass, located along the Continental Divide, where waters flow toward both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Logan Pass is the highest point on the Going-to-the-Sun Road with an elevation of 6,647 feet.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out, transfer, and border crossing into Canada in the morning.
Day
8
Travel to Waterton, Buffalo Jump, Canmore
Location:
Canmore, AB
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Coast Canmore Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 320 miles, approximately 6 hours total drive time. Periods of standing while at museum. Walking up to 1 mile. Have passports accessible for the US-Canadian border crossing.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After checking out of Many Glacier Hotel, we'll depart by motorcoach with the Group Leader to Waterton Lakes National Park in Canada. Be sure to have your passports accessible for the US/Canadian border crossing. Although active glaciers vacated Waterton's borders years ago, the results of ice gnawing on the landscape left lake pockets strewn through the park, one of these lakes being Upper Waterton Lake, the deepest lake in the Canadian Rockies. While in Waterton we'll visit the historic Prince of Wales Hotel. Designated a Canadian National Historic Site, the 122-foot-tall, four-story hotel took more than a year to build. Constructed by the Great Northern Railway its massive lobby with floor-to-ceiling windows frame Waterton Lake.
Lunch:
Boxed lunch en route.
Afternoon:
Next, we’ll visit Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which bears witness to an aboriginal hunting practice that was used by native people of the North American plains for almost 6,000 years. We'll stop at this unique site and learn from museum staff about this essential piece of history. This afternoon we'll arrive at the gateway to Banff National Park in Canmore and check into the hotel. This area is the crown jewel in Canada's National Park system with its dense coniferous forest and alpine landscapes.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Feel free to get settled into your room or roam around the quaint town of Canmore.
Day
9
Banff, Sulphur Mountain Gondola, Wildlife Presentation
Location:
Canmore, AB
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Coast Canmore Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 35 miles, approximately 1 hour total drive time. Periods of standing and walking. Getting on/off gondola. Maximum elevation of 8,041 feet as we take the gondola up Sulphur Mountain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
This morning we'll explore some of Banff's most historic and scenic spots with our Group Leader. Far from the wild peaks of the Canadian Rockies, Catharine Robb and Peter Whyte met at the Boston Museum School of Fine Art in 1927. She was a Boston debutante while he was a member of one of Banff's pioneer families. They married in 1930 and made Banff and the Canadian mountains their home. A studio was built one year later where they would live and paint the grandeur of their beloved mountains. This morning we'll self-explore the Whyte Museum. Next, we'll ride a Gondola up to Sulphur Mountain, at an elevation of 8,041 feet. From the observation deck, breathtaking views of Banff, Bow Valley, Cascade Mountain, Lake Minnewanka, and the Fairholme Range await you.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like in Banff. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Take this opportunity for independent exploration of Banff. The area has several museums and local art galleries to explore.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At the hotel we'll be joined by a local wildlife expert and learn what makes this area so unique.
Day
10
Jasper National Park, Snowcoach Excursion, Lake Louise
Location:
Canmore, AB
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Coast Canmore Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach and snowcoach; driving about 260 miles, approximately 5 hours total drive time. Wear warm clothes and bring a coat as it is often snowing on the glacier. While the snowcoach is enclosed, there is an optional opportunity to get out and safely walk on the surface of the glacier.
Breakfast:
To-go breakfast from the hotel.
Morning:
Early departure this morning as we travel north to Jasper National Park for an all day expert-led field trip, beginning with a snowcoach excursion onto the Athabasca Glacier in the Columbia Icefields. The snowcoach journey is lead by experienced drivers who will share a wealth of fascinating information about glaciers, icefields and their impact on our environment. Passengers can safely step out onto the glacier and stand on this powerful ancient ice.
Lunch:
Boxed lunch en route.
Afternoon:
Return trip to Canmore with scenic stops along the way, including a stop at Lake Louise. As you witness the spectacular beauty of Mount Victoria reflecting in the sparkling waters of Lake Louise, you'll understand why this lake is regarded as one of the most tranquil and beautiful lakes in Canada. Overlooking the magnificent scene, Fairmont Château Lake Louise is without a doubt one of the world's most photographed hotels. This afternoon, enjoy a self-exploration of Lake Louise in all its splendor.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
Free evening to explore more of the beautiful town of Canmore. Afterwards, be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
11
Heritage Park Historical Village, Calgary, Farewell Dinner
Location:
Calgary
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Sheraton Cavalier Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach and snowcoach; driving about 85 miles, approximately 1.5 hours total drive time. Walking approximately 2/3 mile.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After breakfast we'll check out of the hotel in Canmore and depart for Calgary for an expert-led field trip of the city's highlights.
Lunch:
At Heritage Park.
Afternoon:
We'll spend the afternoon at Heritage Park exploring the culture and traditions of the Plains First Nations, fur traders, missionaries and early settlers. We will get a firsthand look at the challenges that faced these groups as well as a glimpse into daily life by way of exploring the Heritage Park Historical Village. Discover how settlers learned to endure a harsh environment and also about the cultural exchange that took place which helped them to adapt and survive. You'll also have an opportunity for self exploration of the Heritage Park Historical Village. Later in the afternoon we'll check into the Sheraton Cavalier, the end destination of our Rocky Mountains exploration. We'll have time to freshen up before our final dinner together.
Dinner:
At the hotel. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
12
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Location:
Calgary
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out is 12:00 PM. This concludes our program.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
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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MEALS
30 Meals
11 Breakfasts
9 Lunches
10 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Sep 02, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025
- Jul 08, 2025 - Jul 19, 2025 (Jackson Hole to Calgary)
- Jul 15, 2025 - Jul 26, 2025 (Jackson Hole to Calgary)
- Jul 29, 2025 - Aug 09, 2025 (Jackson Hole to Calgary)
- Aug 05, 2025 - Aug 16, 2025 (Jackson Hole to Calgary)
- Aug 12, 2025 - Aug 23, 2025 (Jackson Hole to Calgary)
- Aug 19, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025 (Jackson Hole to Calgary)
- Aug 26, 2025 - Sep 06, 2025 (Jackson Hole to Calgary)
- Sep 02, 2025 - Sep 13, 2025 (Jackson Hole to Calgary)
Participant Reviews
Based on 34 Reviews
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This program surpassed our already high expectations. All of the speakers enhanced our understanding. It was a pleasure to travel with our leader, Natallia. She is organized, knowledgeable, and has a wonderful sense of humor. Our bus driver, Dave, was steady and kind. The people were all interesting and interested in learning. The star of the trip was the unsurpassed beauty of these parks. We were full of wonder and joy the entire time.
— Review left September 11, 2024
A wonderful tour with an excellent tour manager and many expert guides. We learned so much and enjoyed the beauty of the Rocky Mountains, the landscape, the geology and the history of the area and people.
— Review left August 30, 2024
This is an excellent and enjoyable program. It's a great opportunity to visit and learn about another part of our vast continent. The parks are world-class treasures, well worth the time and effort to check them out.
— Review left August 20, 2024
I anticipated a positive and life-changing experience, and I got it!
My tour guide / leader, Natallia was superb in every way imaginable... courtesy, charming, humorous, a good listener, attentive and a delight in every way.
Could not believe the tremendous sights we saw, which will surely last for me throughout my life.
I'm 74 and this was my first ever tour, and I couldn't have been happier. Wish I was still on the Road.
Joseph Jordan
— Review left August 19, 2024
Five Stars!! This is an amazing trip to SIX national parks in the US and Canada. The Rockies offer so much diversity and awe inspiring beauty and grandeur. We saw geysers, bears, an Olympic village. We rode a gondola to the top of a mountain and a snow coach to a glacier. A memorable experience that our able group leader Natallia guided us through flawlessly. The local experts were knowledgeable and interesting. Absolutely fabulous!
— Review left August 19, 2024
A terrific journey to new places and a new perspective on places previously visited, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and a group of like-minded and friendly travelers. Highly recommended
— Review left August 18, 2024
You can't go wrong with this one!
— Review left August 17, 2024
This an exceptionally outstanding trip! We saw so much and covered a tremendous amount of territory with extremely different beauty. We learned so much and bonded as a group thanks to Bob our outstanding leader. It is a trip that was far beyond my expectations. We had a very competent Canadian bus driver whose skills also added to the quality of the trip. I feel very fortunate to have been able to have the opportunity to be on this trip.
— Review left September 17, 2023
Step on guides were very good.
Bob went out of his way to accommodate every participant.
Bob and Bus driver Don, worked TOGETHER as a team enhancing our tour experience. Don was a very safe and courteous driver. He was friendly to all and shared his local Canadian Rockies experience that added value to our trip.
— Review left September 16, 2023
Awesome program. Many unexpected surprises along the way. We had a great group and great leader, Bob. I wouldn’t change a thing.
— Review left September 16, 2023
This program fulfilled a life long dream of visiting Glacier National Park and Lake Louise in Canada. The time spent at each national park was just enough to whet one's appetite for a return trip for a more extended visit to your favorite park or two!
— Review left September 12, 2023
Michael did a great job, and the driver, also Mike, contributed as a native Albertan. Learned.a lot, fulfilled a ‘bucket list' dream, and so glad we went with Road Scholar.
— Review left September 12, 2023
WE HAD A GREAT TIME ON OUR TRIP. THE SCENERY WAS AMAZING. OUR TRIP GUIDE MICHAEL SNYDER WAS SO NICE AND KNOWLEDGABLE. OUR DRIVER MIKE NEVER MISSED AN EXIT OR A SCENIC PULL-OVER. BUT, I GOT A MESSAGE FROM ROAD SCHOLAR THAT MY RETURN FLIGHT FOR SEPT. 9TH WAS CANCELED. SO, THEY REBOOKED IT FOR THE 10TH. THEY ALSO BOOKED A HOTEL ROOM NEAR THE CALGARY AIRPORT FOR ME. THEY SAID THAT THEY WERE ONLY RESPONSIBLE FOR GETTING ME TO THE AIRPORT, THAT I WOULD HAVE TO ARRANGE TRANSPORTATION TO THE HOTEL AND BACK TO THE AIRPORT AND PAY FOR MY HOTEL ROOM. SO, I HAD TO PAY 150 EXTRA FOR SOMEONE TO WATCH MY PET THAT EXTRA DAY. ON THE TRIP I LEARNED THAT EVERYONE HAD A RETURN FLIGHT THROUGH DALLAS, JUST LIKE MY ORIGINAL FLIGHT. SO, I CALLED AMERICAN AND THEY SAID THAT MY FLIGHT WAS NEVER CANCELED, JUST CHANGED TO A LONGER LAYOVER IN DALLAS THAN THE ORIGINAL TIME. I WAS SO UPSET THAT THEY WERE NOT HONEST WITH ME. SO, ON SEPT. 5TH, I CHANGED MY FLIGHT BACK TO THE 9TH AS IT WAS ORIGINALLY, FOR A FEE OF 198.00 DOLLARS. ROAD SCHOLAR IS NOT WANTING TO REIMBURSE ME THE CHANGE OF FLIGHT FEE, THAT WAS THEIR FAULT. I AM VERY UP SET WITH THEM ABOUT THIS, AND FINDING SOMEONE TO TALK TO IS EVEN WORSE. I CAN NOT SEEM TO REACH ANYONE. SURPRISE SURPRISE!!!
— Review left September 11, 2023
The best of the Tetons to Banff is a tour that everyone should experience, the wonders of nature are truly awe inspiring.
— Review left September 11, 2023
Excellent opportunity to visit key National Parks in good company and with excellent staff and faculty.
— Review left September 9, 2023
The scenery of the Grand Tetons to Banff trip was spectacular and we appreciated the opportunity to visit six national parks on a single trip. There was plenty to do and see and good planning made it possible.
— Review left August 31, 2023
Wonderful, wonderful, scenic trip with great guides. Highly recommended. Just a few helpful hints:
1. It is strenuous in that it is 6 parks in 12 days so lots of early mornings on the bus. While there are no "hikes" per se, there is quite a bit of walking especially at all of the Yellowstone sites. Lots of getting on and off the bus and walking on paved paths or boardwalks. The hardest was Mammoth Hot Springs where you are let off at the top of the mountain and walk down on stairs, boardwalks, and one rather short, steepish asphalt section for about 2 miles total. Best for people with no ambulation difficulties.
2. At least in August, there was quite a temperature change during the 12 days. It was in the 80's in Jackson and the high 40's on the glacier. Bring a coat and sweater, a wool hat, mittens, and shoes with a good tread or hiking boots. They rough up the surface of the glacier where you are allowed to walk so it is like crushed ice and not so slippery, but hiking poles are good here.
3. The food at Yellowstone Village cafeteria is not very good and one reason is that there are no fresh fruits and vegetables served. Look forward to the salad in Helena. Food at Many Glacier Hotel is great because you get to order off the menu, not a cafeteria or buffet, for lunch and dinner.
4. If your tour still goes to the Helena Colonial Hotel, there are 2 guest washing machines. Bring laundry detergent, $3 in quarters and be prepared to get there first to get a load in before dinner.
5. If you are a shopper, there are plenty of gift shop opportunities. You have an evening free in Jackson the first day and can easily walk to restaurants and shops. The other good opportunity for shopping is 2 hours in cute Banff, where you are paying with Canadian dollars. No need to get Canadian currency, you can use a credit card everywhere, just make sure it isn't one that charges a foreign currency exchange fee.
— Review left August 27, 2023
This is a wonderful way to enjoy three of our country's beautiful national parks and also to see equally beautiful parks in Canada. The program structure includes time for hiking, boating, or just relaxing.
— Review left August 13, 2023
We need Wi-Fi and cup holders on the bus
— Review left August 13, 2023
Great trip, be prepared for lots of walking, on and off bus, packing and unpacking a lot! Unbelievable scenery!
— Review left August 1, 2023
Wonderful experience in Wyoming, Montana and the Canadian Rockies! It makes me so thankful that we have these beautiful protected areas.
— Review left July 24, 2023
Our National Parks are superb!! They can outshine anyplace in the world! Just GO! This trip is not too demanding but it is busy and full of offs and ons the bus and walking and early mornings. You will be “on the go” every day. Fabulous trip!!!
— Review left July 23, 2023
If you are able to take this tour, please do. It is a beautiful area of the USA and Canada. The trip certainly touches the majesty of the National Parks. There is a lot of "Wow" in this program.
— Review left September 27, 2022
This trip was just exceptional. It exceeded our expectations on every level. We so appreciate the very capable management by our program leader. We feel so fortunate to have had such special access to these 6 national parks!
— Review left September 26, 2022
Fantastic! Beyond expectgations in everyway. Great tour coordinator. Good-to-very good accommodations. Very good meal selections. Fulfilled a 50-yr dream to visit this beautiful, unique area of the US & Canada. Wonderful co-travelers to share the experience.
— Review left September 24, 2022
This was an amazing trip! Each park beautiful in its own way.
Penny Island is a perfect trip leader. within a few days we were no longer a bunch of folk traveling together. We were a group enjoying each other as we traveled to the different parks.
Penny was knowlegable, organized, able to work with us to make the trip perfect, not rattled by our differences/needs, etc., calm in an emergency, able to flex as necessary.
She and Mike the coach driver made quite the team.
— Review left September 20, 2022
RS site is terrible. I searched for Small Group and this came up. FYI it is not small group. That being said trip was amazing. Penny one of the best RS Group leaders. Plan ahead re packing list. My trip was much warmer than expected and luckily I threw in some lightweight clothing. Check the forecast. Be ready to be gobsmacked by what you are about to see.
— Review left September 11, 2022
A very enjoyable introduction to our and Canada's National Parks. Very educational and enjoyable
— Review left September 6, 2022
Helpful, organized, necessary
— Review left September 1, 2022
If you are interested in increasing your knowledge of the world in which you live, THIS IS THE PROGRAM TO CHOOSE.
— Review left August 30, 2022
This was a very enjoyable trip. So many sites that were unforgettable. This is a trip of a lifetime starting in Jackson and each site just got better and better. Meals were ok except for Many Glaciers which were outstanding and Canyon Lodge which was horrible)
There were issues with Covid as our trip progressed as too many did not wear masks on the bus and indoors and as was stated some had to leave the tour or got Covid on their return home. RS has to enforce this policy even though no one likes to wear masks the results from our tour left many with Covid.
— Review left August 15, 2022
Outstanding program and highly recommend! You won't be disappointed!
— Review left August 4, 2022
I just wrote a comprehensive review and got an error, try again later. Don't feel like retyping everything so will summarize. Beautiful itinerary, wonderful sights, great well-located hotels, guides very interesting. The bus driver was courteous and friendly and a very good driver.
Pacing needs tweaking, too many early mornings. Leader rushed us to be 15 minutes early for everything and got places an hour or two early. Meals disappointing except for Glacier Lodge, too many hotel buffets and box lunches. Canyon awful meals: more than an hour in line for cold, inedible food and out of many things. Don't know a solution as no other options there--even the store closed early. Thank heavens for the gift shop with expensive wine and snacks. Pretty sure covid picked up there.
Whether it was Road Scholar policy or our leader the covid situation handled terribly. Those who went home given little support. One had to fly home while positive because no hotel available. In Glacier we were not given enough information to make an informed decision as to whether to continue to Canada and risk being quarantined for 10 days in expensive hotels or given reasonable options not to continue. Many of us would have not continued on if we knew who was positive (knowing it was people with whom I spent much time I definitely would not have stayed). We should have been tested and given options, instead were told we would discuss it on the bus--too late. When I asked our leader to speak to a couple who refused to wear masks was told to tell them myself. Consequently the rest of the trip was stressful; too many of us got sick; needlessly exposed others; and many ended up flying home while contagious.
I have really enjoyed Road Scholar trips and never had these problems but hesitate to book any others until your Covid policies change and made clearer. I understand travel is difficult during Covid but much more can be done to keep people safe.
— Review left August 1, 2022
You will be glad you took the tour and saw all the beauty of the parks. You will enjoy Penny and Dave the bus driver.
— Review left September 22, 2019
