Tailor-made family adventures: the Rockies and the Pacific Coast
In summary
-
Sports
-
Duration14 days
-
LevelAll levels
-
DestinationCanada / The Rocky Mountains
-
AgeFrom 12 - 80 years
-
CO₂-Emissions156.15 kg CO2
-
Type of stayIndependent traveler
In a few words
Embark on a family adventure through Western Canada, with a route designed to appeal to adventurers of all ages. From bike rides to cave explorations , each day blends natural discoveries with fun activities suitable for everyone. You'll travel through iconic national parks in the Rockies and Wells Gray Provincial Park , encountering exceptional wildlife . Highlights await: whale watching , guided hikes through breathtaking landscapes, horseback riding , sunrises over Lakes Louise and Moraine , and evenings under the stars . The trip is enriched by cultural exchanges with an Indigenous guide and fascinating excursions to paleontological sites and legendary glaciers . Designed to be flexible , this trip adapts perfectly to family schedules , even with young children . An immersive and fast-paced journey where every member of the family will find their own share of adventure.
The highlights
-
Family adventure in the heart of the Rockies and Wells Gray Park
-
Whale watching and encounters with Canadian wildlife
-
Interactions with a local guide and unique paleontological discoveries
Photos
Sport
Level
Leisure Cycling
Everyone can participate in this trip. The supervision and/or the program will be adapted to each person's level.
In figures
Road bike
- Average duration/day: 2h30
- Average distance/day: 19 km
Horseback riding
- Average duration/day: 2h
Hiking
- Average duration/day: 2h30
- Average distance/day: 2 km
- Average daily elevation gain: 44 m
Canoeing / Kayaking
- Average duration/day: 3h
Management
Program
-
Arrival in Vancouver
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Arrival in Vancouver, British Columbia.
The city of Vancouver is located between the sea and the mountains. It is renowned for its lifestyle, its Olympic Games, its Pacific coastline, its Asian-American influence, and its orange sunsets... Welcome to Vancouver!
Free transfer between Vancouver Airport and Vancouver .
Overnight stay at the Moda Hotel in a Standard room.
Day 1 -
Vancouver
- Activity Road bike
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Distance 12 km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Guided bike tour of Vancouver's Stanley Park.
To admire Vancouver from afar and truly appreciate its grandeur, we suggest exploring Stanley Park by bike . It's a genuine outdoor excursion, as the park is the city's green lung, nestled between land and sea. Stanley Park is the third largest park in North America, and it's surprising to find yourself surrounded by nature just steps from the bustling city center. Besides the excellent bike path, you'll also discover magnificent First Nations totem poles and unexpected natural beauty. It's the perfect spot to take stunning photos of Vancouver.
Free afternoon in Vancouver to explore the different facets of the city at your own pace.
Vancouver, an emerging city in North America, stands out for its striking contrast between ocean and mountains, history and modernity, serenity and energy. This creates a unique atmosphere that immerses you in a vibrant cultural scene, which you'll discover as you explore the city's diverse neighborhoods.
Sightseeing suggestions will be provided in your travel guide.
Overnight stay at the Moda Hotel in a Standard room.
Day 2 -
Vancouver - Steveston
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Pick up your rental vehicle in Vancouver.
Day of whale watching and visit to the canneries of Steveston.
Today you are heading south of Vancouver to reach the small neighborhood of Steveston.
Start with a visit to the region's main cannery , where salmon and herring were once canned. The beautifully preserved cannery allows you to discover the various machines used, but also teaches you a great deal about the region's social dynamics and the importance of fishing to Canada and its impact on ecosystems. A truly unique and unmissable experience.
Then, you'll board a Zodiac to encounter the resident whales and orcas of Vancouver Bay . Your naturalist guide will explain how orca families are organized and how they are threatened by salmon overfishing, among other interesting stories.
Duration: approximately 5 hours of outing.
Note 1: Entry to the Gulf of Georgia cannery must be paid for on site.
Note 2: Whale watching trip included.
Note 3: Cetacean sightings not guaranteed.
Overnight stay at the Moda Hotel in a Standard room.
Day 3 -
Vancouver - Clearwater
- Accommodation Private chalet
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Route between Vancouver and Clearwater , at the gateway to the Canadian Rockies.
The road crosses British Columbia as it approaches the Rocky Mountains. You can stop in the vibrant city of Kamloops for a lunch break and some cultural activities. For nature lovers, you might be tempted by a vineyard tour or a hike in one of the region's many parks.
Duration: approximately 5 hours by road.
Suggestions for stops will be provided in your travel booklet.
Overnight stay at the Across the Creek Hotel in a two-bedroom chalet.
Note: This chalet includes 2 bedrooms, each with a queen-size bed, and a fully equipped kitchen. All with mountain views.
Day 4 -
Wells Gray Provincial Park – Clearwater
- Activity Horseback riding
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Accommodation Private chalet
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Horseback riding in Wells Gray Provincial Park.
Enjoy a horseback ride in the heart of Wells Gray Provincial Park. During this guided tour, let yourself be carried along at the leisurely pace of your horse through stunning scenery. Your guide will lead you up hills and across rivers. Every moment in the saddle is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the surrounding nature, marvel at the majestic landscapes of northern British Columbia, and create lasting memories.
Duration: approximately 2 hours.
Note 1: maximum 6 people per group.
Note 2: beginner level (for more advanced levels or for a longer walk, please contact us).
Free day in Wells Gray Provincial Park located in the Cariboo mountain range.
This park is one of the wildest in British Columbia and is home to many animal species. Known for its many waterfalls - including the majestic Helmcken, Dawson and Moul Falls - Wells Gray Provincial Park is above all a beautiful introduction to the Canadian mountains before heading out to the touristy Rockies.
Suggestions for visits and hikes will be provided in your travel journal.
Overnight stay at the Across the Creek Hotel in a two-bedroom chalet.
Day 5 -
Clearwater - Jasper
- Accommodation Private chalet
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Road between Clearwater and Blue River .
Duration: approximately 1 hour drive.
Wildlife observation from the river, and more specifically bear watching.
In the heart of the Blue River forests, you'll embark on a water safari today, in search of wildlife. Aboard a small catamaran and then a boat designed to navigate shallow rivers surrounded by mountains, you'll sail on calm waters to observe wildlife, including grizzly bears . You might also spot other animals such as eagles or moose !
Duration: excursion of approximately 1.5-2 hours.
Note 1: Maximum 10 participants per boat.
Note 2: It is common to see bears during this excursion. However, a 100% wildlife sighting can never be guaranteed.
Route between Blue River and Jasper .
Duration: approximately 2 hours 15 minutes by car.
Overnight stay at Chalets Becker's in a two-bedroom chalet with kitchen.
Day 6 -
Jasper National Park
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 5 km
- Positive elevation gain 130 m
- Accommodation Private chalet
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Half-day guided tour to Old Fort Point, in the heart of Jasper National Park.
The Old Fort Point hike is beautiful with magnificent views, especially after the fire that ravaged Jasper in the summer of 2024! You'll hear the story told by a local. From the summit, you can see five mountain ranges, two rivers, and the valley layout.
Duration: approximately 2 hours of hiking, and 10 minutes by car to the starting point.
Distance: approximately 4 km (130m elevation gain).
Level: easy.
Free afternoon in Jasper.
Explore Jasper independently. Hike the trails of Jasper National Park to admire crystal-clear blue lakes, majestic waterfalls, and breathtaking panoramas. Treat yourself to a kayaking or canoeing adventure on the serene waters of one of the splendid lakes, teeming with wildlife.
Suggestions for visits will be provided in your travel guide.
Stargazing and watching a movie in Jasper.
In addition to being the world's largest easily accessible dark sky preserve, Jasper is also one of the smallest towns in North America with its own planetarium. Enjoy an entertaining and fun evening exploring the cosmos !
Overnight stay at Chalets Becker's in a two-bedroom chalet with kitchen.
Day 7 -
Jasper National Park - Maligne Canyon - Jasper
- Accommodation Private chalet
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
The goal for the day is to explore the Rockies in all their splendor!
We offer a route allowing you to discover the magnificent Jasper National Park and the Maligne Valley, discovering spectacular landscapes, the very same ones found in the magnificent photos that make the Rockies famous.
Suggestions for stops and excursions will be provided in your travel booklet.
Discussion around a fire with a native woman.
Settle in comfortably and get ready to discuss Indigenous culture , accompanied by stories , drumming , and songs around a fire. You'll learn more about the Indigenous peoples of Canada during this intimate moment of sharing and exchange.
Duration: approximately 1 hour.
🌿 This activity helps to preserve and promote the traditional knowledge of the Indigenous peoples of Canada.
Overnight stay at Chalets Becker's in a two-bedroom chalet with kitchen.
Day 8 -
Jasper - Icefield Parkway - Banff/Canmore
- Activity Canoeing / Kayaking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Canoe trip on one of the majestic lakes of Jasper National Park.
Today you'll enjoy a relaxing moment in a picture-perfect setting. Accompanied by your guide, you'll admire the breathtaking landscapes of the Rockies from the water. You'll observe birds and, with a bit of luck, you might even spot some other wildlife. This unique experience in an authentic canoe is the perfect way to escape the crowds and enjoy Jasper at your own pace.
Note 1: Maximum 6 people per canoe.
Note 2: easy level, accessible to all.
Duration: approximately 3 hours of excursion.
Route between Jasper and Banff, on the legendary Route 93, commonly known as Icefields Parkway.
It is one of the most beautiful roads in the country: 229 kilometers long, it contains the treasures of the Rockies: more than 100 ancient glaciers, starting points for hikes to green and blue lakes, ice fields, falls and cascades.
We will indicate the best stops along the route in your travel booklet.
Duration: approximately 3 hours 30 minutes of driving without stopping.
Overnight stay at the Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn in a Premium room.
Day 9 -
Banff - Canmore
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
A day of independent exploration of the Canadian Rockies (Banff and its surroundings).
- Discover the vibrant town of Banff and its surroundings. Between its colorful town center, its hot springs, and its cable car to Sulphur Mountain , you'll have plenty of activities to choose from.
- Take the cable car up Sulphur Mountain , at 2,281 meters, for a 360-degree view of the Rocky Mountains. You can choose between hiking, having a drink at the Sky Bistro restaurant, or strolling around and enjoying the scenery.
- Near the cable car entrance are the Banff Hot Springs . Come and rejuvenate in the thermal and mineral waters of the Sulphur Mountains. Advance reservations are not possible.
Note: Cable car entrance included.
Suggestions for hikes and visits will be provided in your travel guide.
As an option, we offer a tailor-made day trip with a French-speaking guide to hike on the hidden trails of the Rockies.
Overnight stay at the Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn in a Premium room.
Day 10 -
Lake Louise - Moraine Lake
- Activity Hiking
- Duration of the activity 3h
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Exploring Lakes Louise and Moraine at sunrise, before the arrival of tourists.
You'll set off early to admire one of the most photographed places in the country: Moraine and Louise Lakes. The first light on Moraine Lake: marvel at the enchanting spectacle of the sun illuminating the Valley of the Ten Peaks and the pristine waters of Moraine Lake.
Then, enjoy a rare serenity at Lake Louise: although very touristy, you'll be charmed by the interplay of light and shadow between the lake and the mountains. Its turquoise waters make Lake Louise the most photographed spot in the Rockies. On its shores stands the Fairmont Château Lake Louise hotel, built in 1890. A 2-km trail allows you to walk along the lake's edge. This lake has the unique feature of being accessible year-round: in winter, a skating rink is set up on the frozen lake.
Your guide will take you to a secret observation point to enjoy this spectacle exclusively.
Hot drinks will be served.
Duration: 7-hour outing, in a group of up to 24 people.
Free half-day in Canmore and Banff.
Suggestions for visits and activities will be provided in your travel guide.
Overnight stay at the Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn in a Premium room.
Day 11 -
Canmore - Banff
- Activity Road bike
- Duration of the activity 2h
- Distance 25 km
- Accommodation 2-star hotel
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Half-day exploration in the Canmore caves.
Enjoy a thrilling underground exploration experience in the mysterious Canmore Caves . Accompanied by your experienced guide, you will descend into the depths of the caves, discovering narrow passages, amazing rock formations and a captivating subterranean world.
During this unique immersive adventure, you will also have the opportunity to touch real bones...! An extraordinary experience that will allow you to be completely immersed in the captivating history of the valley.
Duration: approximately 4.5 hours of excursion, including 2.5 hours underground.
Note: Suitable for ages 10 and up, intermediate level, not recommended for claustrophobic individuals or those who do not engage in regular physical activity.
Electric bike tour in the Bow Valley starting from Banff.
On this guided walk, you'll discover the most spectacular sights of Banff. Your guide will introduce you to the history, geography, and ecology of this rich and breathtaking region. The route varies slightly from day to day, but it includes the Bow River Trail, the Vermillion Lakes, and the Banff Springs Golf Course Loop, which passes by Bow Falls.
Electric bikes allow you to cover a good distance in the most fun, smooth, and immersive way possible. All these roads and trails are easy and have little to no traffic.
Overnight stay at the Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn.
Day 12 -
Banff - Drumheller
- Accommodation B&B
- Breakfast included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Route between Banff and Drumheller
You'll take the scenic route through plains and mountains... You'll pass through the town of Canmore and cross Kananaskis Country. Along the way, feel free to stop for photos or simply to stretch your legs and admire the view.
Suggestions for stops along your route will be provided in your travel booklet.
Duration: approximately 2 hours 40 minutes by road.
Free day to explore the Badlands region, an arid region with spectacular landscapes.
The Badlands region is a spectacular and rugged landscape, characterized by its eroded rock formations and deep canyons. It is a place of great geological and paleontological richness, teeming with dinosaur fossils. You can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring breathtaking, magnificent landscapes. French explorers, frustrated by the lack of food in this arid part of the country, nicknamed this region the "badlands."
Suggestions for hikes and visits will be provided in your travel guide.
Overnight stay at the Tyrannosaurus Rest B&B hotel in an Attic Suite room.
Day 13 -
Drumheller - Calgary
- Breakfast not included
- Lunch not included
- Dinner not included
Route between Drumheller and Calgary.
Duration: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes drive.
Free afternoon in Calgary.
Calgary, Alberta 's largest city, is the gateway to the Rocky Mountains . Famous for the Stampede , the world's largest rodeo, this festival takes place every year in early July. You'll discover this vibrant city, particularly its downtown, green spaces, and pedestrian streets.
Suggestions for visits will be provided in your travel guide.
Route between Calgary and Calgary International Airport .
Duration: approximately 20 minutes drive.
Return your rental vehicle at Calgary Airport.
Connection to your international flight.
Day 14
Accommodation
Access
Go to the starting point
Price details
The price includes
- French-speaking telephone support from our team 24/7 during your stay
- Canadian and/or American federal, provincial, and municipal taxes applied to various services and accommodations
- Nights spent in the establishments mentioned or equivalent.
- Guides, site entrance fees, meals, transportation, and activities mentioned in the "included" section for each day
- Car rental if it is mentioned in the "Other services" section
- Park entrances, if mentioned at the bottom of the quote
- A personalized digital travel journal
The price does not include
- International and domestic flights
- Petrol, tolls and parking fees when you rent a vehicle
- Return fees at another agency, GPS rental, winter tire fees (unless otherwise stated)
- Drinks (unless otherwise stated)
- Breakfasts (unless otherwise stated)
- Park entrances (unless otherwise stated)
- Personal expenses and tips
- Bank fees
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusions
Options
- Flex fare and insurance
Practical information
Specific formalities
Specifics
Before your departure, check with the embassy or consulate regarding the entry and stay requirements for your destination country. You can also find this information on the France Diplomatie website ( https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/fr/dossiers-pays/ ).
In the case of flights with stopovers operated by different airlines, also check the entry requirements of the countries you are transiting through.
It is your responsibility to ensure you are in compliance, particularly regarding the validity of your identity documents (for example, some countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after your return) , visa requirements, necessary vaccinations, and health recommendations. And don't forget to consider any customs restrictions and other potential requirements of your destination or transit country.
ℹ️ Information may change up to the departure date, remember to regularly check official websites.
Equipment
Equipment to bring
- Headlamp and 2L water bottle
- Minimal toiletry kit
- Waterproof backpack, binoculars, waterproof camera
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Closed shoes, backpack
- Hiking poles, headlamp
- Insulated water bottle, snacks
- First aid kit
- Spare shoes
- Boots or sneakers for the evening
- Sunglasses
- Insecticide
Clothing to bring
- T-shirt, shorts, dress, pants, sweater
- Sweater / fleece / light down jacket
- Waterproof / windproof / rain jacket
- Hat / cap / beanie
- Scarf / headscarf
- Swimsuit
- Spare socks
- Lightweight, waterproof trousers, technical t-shirt (avoid cotton)
- Warm and waterproof clothing
- Shoes that can get wet
- Warm and waterproof clothing
- Change of clothes for the day and evening
- Light coat for cool evenings