Canada’s national parks are perhaps the country’s most incredible attractions, and two of the oldest and most beautiful are Banff and Jasper national parks - both of which are on the eastern side of the famous Canadian Rockies. Both parks are Unesco World Heritage sites due to their immense natural beauty. When there, you’ll see everything from glittering blue-water glacial lakes, otherworldly ice fields, stunning waterfalls and alluring hot springs to vast mountain ranges, canyons and some of the rarest wildlife in North America.
Banff town is situated at the foot of the Sulphur Mountain, which can be reached by the Banff Gondola which takes visitors to the summit of the mountain for awe-inspiring views of the Rockies. There are a number of lakes in Banff but our favourite is the stunning glacier-fed Lake Louise known for its turquoise waters and jagged high peaks, that are perfect for hiking. We suggest waiting to see the Columbia Icefield, which is better accessed from Jasper National Park, and can be explored via the wonderful Icefield parkway, which is a scenic drive through the Rockies from Banff to Jasper. Our favourite waterfall in the area is Athabasca Falls on the Athabasca River in Jasper, which is surrounded by lush flora and deep ravines full of wild waters. The waters here even change colour depending on the season. In the summer months expect to see a mass of milky white water, filled with silt from the mountains, while for the rest of the year, the river shows a spectrum of deep blues and sparkling greens. Those who want to hike should head to Mount Edith Cavell, which will take you through Cavell Kettle Lake and onwards to the Cavell Meadows for views of both the Angel and Cavell glaciers.
When it’s time to move on, you should stop by Kamloops to see the beautiful lake and the Kamloops Heritage railway, which steams its way through the countryside, including the naturalforested habitat of bears and cougars, before spending a couple of days in the bustling seaport of Vancouver. Once there we recommend a spot of walking or biking through the stunning Stanley Park, doing some shopping on Granville Island and braving all 137 metres of the suspension bridge in Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. After that, a trip across the Haro Strait will bring you to the wonderful little city of Victoria - otherwise known as the Garden City. Whilst there be sure to stop by Craigdarroch Castle for a little slice of Scotland in the form of a Victorian-era ScottishBaronial mansion, and the enchanting Butchart Gardens, that are especially attractive during Christmas time, when they’re illuminated with thousands of bulbs and themed decorations.
Stretching 233 km (145 miles) between Jasper and Lake Louise, the Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in Canada. Following the Continental Divide through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it’s packed with towering glaciers, emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, and excellent wildlife viewing.
A Rocky Mountain Canada tour isn’t about rushing through attractions — it’s about immersing yourself in nature. The Canada Rocky Mountain travel experience is one that leaves visitors excited and astonished, whether you are gazing at elk in the wilderness, hiking next to a glacier, or staring at a star-filled sky occasionally illuminated by the northern lights.
Canada's cold, wintry weather provides the opportunity for memorable family activities, whether it's discovering frozen waterfalls or dog sledding through frozen forest trails. From November to April, Canada winter travel opens up a wonderland of dog-sledding, snowshoeing, tubing, and more. While many activities suit families with older kids, there’s still plenty to enjoy with younger children. Here are four of the best places to visit on Canada family tours.
