Set against a dramatic backdrop of rugged mountains, glistening lakes, and vast alpine forests, the Canadian Rockies in Banff and Jasper National Park offer a mesmerizing escape for travellers seeking awe-inspiring natural beauty and unforgettable adventures.
Accessed by the vibrant city of Calgary, renowned for its Western hospitality and culinary scene, travellers can immerse themselves in local culture here before exploring the mountains.
The Canadian Rockies can also be accessed onboard Rocky Mountaineer in the summer months to both Banff and Jasper or year-round on Via Rail’s overnight sleeper service connecting Vancouver and Jasper on The Canadian.
Who Goes to the Canadian Rockies & Calgary
The Canadian Rockies & Calgary are ideal for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, culinary exploration and travellers looking for memorable outdoor experiences. From young Wanderlusters and solo travellers to families and older travellers, the region caters to a range of client profiles. Honeymooners and couples are drawn to its romantic landscapes, while active clients are enticed by the endless hiking, skiing, and rafting opportunities. It’s also an excellent destination for luxury travellers, with many high-end resorts and lodges nestled within the spectacular scenery.
How to Get to the Canadian Rockies & Calgary
Travellers from Australia and New Zealand can reach the Canadian Rockies by flying into Calgary International Airport (YYC), the primary gateway to the region. Major airlines such as Air Canada, Qantas, and United Airlines offer one-stop connections via hubs like Vancouver (YVR) or Los Angeles (LAX).
Once in Calgary, airport shuttles, including Brewster Express and Banff Airporter, can take guests downtown to Calgary or onto the Canadian Rockies. Visitors can also rent a car. Downtown Calgary is only 20 minutes from the airport, while Banff National Park is 1.5 hours from Calgary Airport. Jasper is a further 2.5 hours from Banff National Park. Jasper can also be accessed by Edmonton (YEG) International Airport.
Top 10 Things to Do in the Canadian Rockies & Calgary
Banff Gondola – Ascend Sulphur Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views of the Rockies. The Banff Gondola ride takes visitors up to a summit with unparalleled views across six stunning mountain ranges, the Bow Valley, and the town of Banff. At the top, there are several boardwalk trails that lead to scenic viewpoints, interactive interpretive exhibits, and a rooftop observation deck. A memorable dining experience awaits at the Sky Bistro, where visitors can indulge in Canadian-inspired cuisine with an incredible backdrop.
Lake Louise – Known for its striking turquoise waters, Lake Louise is a must-see destination within Banff National Park. During summer, travellers can rent a canoe and glide across the crystal-clear lake, surrounded by towering mountains and dense forest. In winter, the lake transforms into an enchanting ice skating rink. Trails around Lake Louise lead to beautiful viewpoints, and visitors can explore the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a historic hotel that offers a luxury stay with lake views. Note in summer, visitors cannot drive to the lake. They must take one of the Parks Canada shuttles or book a tour from Banff.
Moraine Lake – Often called one of the most beautiful lakes in the world, Moraine Lake is famous for its vibrant turquoise colour, which is the result of glacial rock flour. Nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, the lake offers postcard-perfect views that draw photographers from around the world. Travellers can hike the Rockpile Trail for a panoramic view over the lake or explore surrounding trails that wind through the alpine forest, offering stunning perspectives of this iconic destination. The lake can be accessed in summer only and requires a Parks Canada shuttle or a tour booked from Banff. There is no vehicle access to the lake.
Jasper’s year-round Wildlife Tours – Wildlife in Jasper National Park abounds, regardless of the season. Allow experts to guide you on an excursion to view the park’s most iconic species, where you might spot elk grazing in open meadows, black bears and grizzly bears foraging along forest edges, and bighorn sheep scaling rocky cliffs. The park is also home to moose, often seen near marshy areas, and elusive wolves and coyotes roaming the wilderness. Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of bald eagles, ospreys, and various owl species. Whether along scenic trails or quiet lakesides, Jasper’s rich wildlife promises unforgettable moments for nature lovers.
Icefields Parkway – The Icefields Parkway is one of the world’s most scenic drives, stretching 232 kilometres between Lake Louise and Jasper. This route passes through majestic mountain landscapes and offers numerous stops at glaciers, waterfalls, and turquoise lakes. Highlights include the Athabasca Glacier & Glacier Skywalk (operational in summer only). Travellers can even take a guided tour on to the glacier itself, stepping foot on a vast field of ice that dates back thousands of years. To explore the Icefields Parkway in winter, take a transfer with Sundog Tours or Brewster Express. Driving is not recommended in the winter months without a 4WD vehicle and experience in icy conditions.
Johnston Canyon – A popular boardwalk experience, Johnston Canyon features a trail that leads to a series of dramatic waterfalls and deep pools carved into the limestone canyon walls. In winter, the canyon transforms into a frozen wonderland, with guided ice walk tours offered by Discover Banff Tours.
Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary – Located just outside Calgary, Alberta, is a unique sanctuary dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of wolfdogs—canines that are a cross between domestic dogs and wolves. Established to provide a safe, enriching environment for these captivating animals, the sanctuary aims to educate the public about wolfdogs and the challenges they face in captivity. Visitors to Yamnuska can observe these majestic creatures up close while learning about wolfdog behaviour, care, and the sanctuary’s mission to advocate for responsible ownership. Offering guided tours, the sanctuary provides an intimate look at the social dynamics and personalities within each pack, while highlighting the importance of wildlife conservation and animal welfare. A visit to Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is both educational and inspiring, giving guests a deeper appreciation for the complex nature of wolfdogs and the conservation efforts to protect them.
Skiing and Snowboarding – The Canadian Rockies are renowned for their world-class ski resorts. In Banff National Park resorts include Mt. Norquay, Banff Sunshine Village and Lake Louise Ski Resort all accessible on a tri-area SkiBig3 pass which includes transfers. In Jasper, the local ski area is Marmot Basin, renowned for no life lines and wide open terrain. Visitors to Calgary can also get in a ski or snowboard fix, visiting WinSport at Canada Olympic Park. After a day on the slopes, travellers can enjoy the culinary scene of Calgary or in the Rockies après at the many restaurants, bars, lodges, and cafes. The winter season runs from November to May, making the Rockies a top destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Calgary Stampede – Known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” the Calgary Stampede is an annual rodeo, exhibition, and festival held every July. This ten-day event celebrates Canada’s Western heritage with rodeo competitions, live music, Indigenous cultural exhibitions, and a thrilling midway.
Helicopter Tours – A helicopter tour over the Canadian Rockies offers a bird’s-eye view of the region’s breathtaking landscapes. Alpine Helicopters and Rockies Heli provide scenic flights in nearby Banff and Jasper National Park giving travellers a unique perspective of towering peaks, glacial lakes, and sprawling forests. For clients looking for a memorable experience, some tours offer landing options, allowing them to explore a secluded mountain spot and take in the untouched beauty up close.
Alberta Food Tours – Alberta Food Tours, based in Calgary, offers a delectable journey through the city’s vibrant culinary scene, highlighting local flavours, artisanal producers, and Alberta’s rich food heritage. These guided tours allow guests to explore the best of Calgary’s food landscape, from bustling markets to hidden gems in the city’s neighbourhoods, sampling everything from farm-fresh ingredients to creative, chef-driven dishes. Led by passionate local guides, Alberta Food Tours also introduces guests to the stories behind the ingredients, farmers, and chefs that make Alberta’s cuisine so distinctive. The tours range from culinary walks to immersive dining experiences, each crafted to showcase Alberta’s deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, quality, and local fare.
Best Time to Travel to the Canadian Rockies & Calgary
The Canadian Rockies & Calgary are year-round destinations, with each season bringing unique experiences. Summer (June to September) is peak season, with warm temperatures, ideal for hiking, lake activities, and wildlife viewing. Autumn (October & November) is a quieter period with vibrant fall foliage, while winter (December to April) transforms the Rockies & Calgary into a snow-covered paradise, perfect for a winter wonderland adventure
How to Book the Canadian Rockies & Calgary
Australian travel agents can book the Canadian Rockies & Calgary through a range of wholesalers that offer packages for FIT custom itineraries and small group tours, including Adventure World, Travel Associates, Entire Travel Group, Momento, Natural Focus Safaris and Adventure Destinations. Or escorted tours with APT, Travelmarvel, Scenic, Evergreen, Globus/Cosmos, Contiki, Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, Inspiring Vacations, TripADeal and Luxury Escapes. Ski holidays can be booked through Sno N Ski, Ski Max, Travelplan, Mogul Ski World, The Ski Travel Company, or Blue Powder Tours. Custom itineraries and packages can be tailored to fit clients’ preferences, whether they’re seeking luxury lodges or self-exploration itineraries.
How to Learn More About the Canadian Rockies & Calgary
Banff & Lake Louise Tourism, Tourism Jasper and Tourism Calgary provide comprehensive information, itineraries, and training support for agents to learn more and provide expert guidance to clients. Download a copy of the agent cheat sheet below and for more information, you can book a one on one training session by emailing in-market representative Lizzie Doyle on lizzie@pr-marketing.com.au.
