Departure date: on request

This spectacular expedition combines soft adventure - helicopter hiking in a pristine alpine setting - and luxury - a lake view room at the opulent Chateau Lake Louise as well as stays at other first class properties.

We recommend this trip for travelers of all ages. The itinerary has been designed so that you can take part in as little or as much as you want. The only thing you must be able to do is get in and out of a helicopter. The rest is up to you. Even if you don't hike, you will still enjoy the greatest views possible on God's green earth.

This expedition focuses on the biology, geology and the history of the Canadian Rockies. From Grizzlies to glaciology - you will leave the Rockies knowing a great deal about the tenuous balance that exists between man and nature. However, in the process, we you will have a lot of fun.

Day 1 - Arrive in Calgary, transfer to Calgary hotel

This is a casual day but, if you arrive early, we'll make sure you take in Calgary's greatest sites including the Glen Bow, a spectacular museum dedicated to the history of the Plains Indians and the Calgary Tower, where you can spy a commanding view of this shiny oil town.

Day 2 - Day hike to Sunshine Meadows

Today we'll check into a deluxe Banff hotel and then enjoy a warm-up hike in the spectacular Sundance Mountain Range. The trails are smooth and flat here so you can do as little or as much hiking as you want. Our trail guide will share the secrets of this vast and vibrant wilderness with you over a delicious picnic.

Day 3 - Banff

Travel in a helicopter this morning high above snowclad peaks, alpine meadows of wild flowers and shimmering turquoise lakes to glacier-shrouded Mt. Assiniboine, the tallest mountain in this part of the Rockies. Here is where we will enjoy an alpine hike. Again, as long as you can get in and out of a helicopter, you can join us! We will establish a base camp while those who really want to "get into the element" can do so with our licensed alpine guide.

Day 4 - Icefields Parkway to Jasper

Today we will travel up one of the most spectacular roads on the entire planet stopping along the way to commune with nature. Rick will show you his favorite spots and you will enjoy a very special M&G champagne picnic next to an out-of-the-way creek.

Day 5 - Jasper and optional overnight canoe/camping trip on Maligne Lake

Today we will travel up to Maligne Lake - the largest lake in the Canadian Rockies where you can take an unforgettable, 1.5 hour cruise on the lake. The adventurous can deviate from the tour to enjoy an overnight canoe/camping trip! Those who prefer a bed in a deluxe hotel will simply return to our Jasper hotel.

Day 6 - Icefield's Parkway to Lake Louise

After a morning of leisure, we will make our way south on the spectacular Icefields Parkway. You will have the option to take another helicopter journey.this time over the Columbia Icefields - the largest sub-arctic snow accumulation zone in North America. After the helicopter ride we will continue to the opulent Chateau Lake Louise where we will enjoy two nights of supreme luxury in the heart of the Canadian wilderness.

Day 7 - Lake Louise relaxation

You're on your own today but, if you're in the mood, you can hike with Rick up to one of the most spectacular viewpoints in the Canadian Rockies - the Teahouse above Lake Louise. It's a tough walk (over a hundred switchbacks) but the fresh-baked scones and cookies served in the teahouse make the struggle to get there more than worth it. Other options include a day of shopping in the nearby bustling town of Banff or another hike on the Paradise trail to Moraine Lake.

Day 8 - Return home

After a delicious breakfast, make your way back to Calgary to catch your flight home.

8 days, 7 nights

2,850 US$ per person in double room

Please Contact Us for more information