Glacier National Park & the Canadian Rockies with the Calgary Stampede
Glacier National Park & the Canadian Rockies with the Calgary Stampede
Glacier National Park & the Canadian Rockies with the Calgary Stampede
11 Days Starting and ending in Calgary, Canada
Visiting: Calgary, Waterton Lakes National Park, Banff, Alberta, Banff National Park, Banff, Jasper
Tour operator:
Tour code:
CSE-2025
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Glacier National Park and the Canadian Rockies, culminating in the excitement of the Calgary Stampede. Begin your journey in Calgary, exploring the city's highlights before heading to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump. Traverse the stunning landscapes of Waterton Lakes National Park and Glacier National Park, with a scenic ride on the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Banff and Jasper National Parks, including a visit to the famous Lake Louise and a narrated cruise on Maligne Lake. Conclude your trip with the thrilling events of the Calgary Stampede, including chuckwagon races, a stage show, and world-class rodeo action. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and local culinary delights throughout this spectacular tour.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive In Calgary,Alberta
Location: Calgary
Accommodation Name: Delta Calgary Downtown
At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.
Day 2: Calgary,Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump,Waterton Lakes National Park
Location: Calgary
Accommodation Name: Bayshore Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
CALGARY–HEAD-SMASHED-IN BUFFALO JUMP–WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK Native Traditions Before departing Calgary, enjoy an orientation tour of the city’s highlights. Travel south along the Macleod Trail. Tour Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a local First Nation’s guide. Then on to scenic Waterton Lakes National Park with a photo stop at Cameron Falls. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Discover the longtime relationship between the First Nations culture and the vast herds of American bison that roamed the plains of southwest Alberta. See the remains of marked trails and an ancient burial mound where vast quantities of buffalo (American Bison) skeletons can still be found at Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump - evidence of a custom used by the Plains People . Using their excellent knowledge of the topography and of buffalo behavior, they skillfully chased the bison over a precipice to quickly kill their main source of sustenance, clothing, and products.
Day 3: Waterton Lakes National Park,Glacier National Park,Montana,Going-To-The-Sun Road,Whitefish,Montana
Location: Waterton Lakes National Park
Accommodation Name: Grouse Mountain Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
WATERTON LAKES NATIONAL PARK–GLACIER NATIONAL PARK, MONTANA–GOING-TO-THE-SUN ROAD–WHITEFISH, MONTANA Peak Perfection Enter Montana through Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and behold the awesome snow-capped peaks of Glacier National Park. Next, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant featuring a made-from-scratch piece of [LF] huckleberry pie or ice cream tasting. Take a scenic ride on the Red Jammer Bus on spectacular Going-to-the-Sun Road. (B,L)LOCAL FAVORITE THE SWEET LIFE Each summer and fall, the aptly named Huckleberry Mountain bursts forth with a purple bounty of berries for which it is named. These Huckleberries are a favorite of bears who live in Glacier National Park, but you can enjoy the sweet rewards of summer with a homemade piece of traditional huckleberry pie or ice cream with lunch at a local restaurant—our treat!TOUR HIGHLIGHTEPIC RIDE A highlight of your visit to Glacier National Park awaits you as you board the famous vintage Red Jammer bus that will take you along one of North America’s most spectacular highways: Going-to-the-Sun Road. After crossing the 6,664-foot-high Logan Pass, you’ll enter a geographical wonderland of alpine scenery where jagged mountain peaks dominate the landscape.
Day 4: Whitefish,Cranston,British Columbia -Kootenay National Park,Banff,Alberta
Location: Banff, Alberta
Accommodation Name: Mount Royal Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
WHITEFISH––CRANSTON, BRITISH COLUMBIA -KOOTENAY NATIONAL PARK–BANFF, ALBERTA Life in the Wild West Re-enter Canada this morning, with a stop at the Ktunaxa Interpretive Centre in British Columbia to learn of the history and culture of the Ktunaxa Nation of British Columbia, before crossing into Alberta. Drive through the steep red cliffs of Sinclair Canyon and Kootenay National Park before entering Banff National Park, the heart of the Canadian Rockies. The evening is free to enjoy the village’s shops, galleries, and restaurants. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTPICTURE PERFECT Get ready for a spectacular adventure to explore the beauty of Rocky Mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes in Banff National Park - Canada’s first national park. This awe-inspiring natural wonder, where soaring peaks and sapphire lakes meet the heavens for a breathtaking experience like no other on Earth!
Day 5: Banff National Park
Location: Banff National Park
Accommodation Name: Mount Royal Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
BANFF NATIONAL PARK Breathtaking Banff This morning, sightseeing includes a stop at beautiful Bow Falls. The balance of the day is at leisure. You may choose to join an optional helicopter flightseeing trip for unsurpassed views of the Rockies. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHT PICTURE PERFECT Get ready for a spectacular adventure to explore the beauty of Rocky Mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes in Banff National Park - Canada’s first national park. This awe-inspiring natural wonder, where soaring peaks and sapphire lakes meet the heavens for a breathtaking experience like no other on Earth!
Day 6: Banff,Lake Louise,Jasper
Location: Banff
Accommodation Name: Chateau Jasper
Meals Included: Breakfast
BANFF–LAKE LOUISE–JASPER Rocky Mountain Majesty Follow breathtaking Icefields Parkway today and head for Jasper National Park. One highlight of your vacation: a visit to famous Lake Louise. Then, climb to Sunwapta Pass to savor stunning vistas of alpine meadows, waterfalls, and glacier masses. There’s time this afternoon for an optional float trip down the historic Athabasca River. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTNATURAL WONDER Lake Louise is world famous for its turquoise lake in the setting of Victoria Glacier, with a soaring mountain backdrop, palatial Fairmont Chateau hotel, and jaw-dropping sights in the Canadian Rockies. The spectacular beauty of Lake Louise is a rare treasure and bucket list experience!
Day 7: Jasper. Excursion To Maligne Lake
Location: Jasper
Accommodation Name: Chateau Jasper
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
JASPER. EXCURSION TO MALIGNE LAKE Spectacular Jasper The morning is at leisure. Nearby activities include hiking, canoeing, and strolling the streets of Jasper. Later, journey to Maligne Lake for a [LF] narrated cruise of the glacial lake and Spirit Island. Afterward, enjoy a lakeside dinner with incredible views and local fare including famous Alberta beef. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITE SPIRIT IN THE SKY A cruise to Spirit Island on the turquoise waters of Maligne Lake is a spectacular sight to behold as one of the most photographed locations in the world for its jaw-dropping beauty.TOUR HIGHLIGHTNATURAL WONDERS Spanning nearly 4,250 square miles of spectacular natural beauty, Jasper is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Its vast wilderness, majestic peaks, abundant wildlife, and breathtaking panoramic sights lie below an incredible Dark Sky to thrill stargazers as well.
Day 8: Jasper,Columbia Icefield,Calgary
Location: Jasper
Accommodation Name: Delta Calgary Downtown
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
JASPER–COLUMBIA ICEFIELD–CALGARY Campfire Stories This morning, visit Athabasca Falls and then retrace the route south along Icefields Parkway. Stop at the Columbia Icefield for a memorable ride aboard an Ice Explorer. Continue to Calgary, where your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner. Over dessert, be entertained by a local [LF] cowboy poet who will bring the region’s Western heritage to life through stories and songs—a perfect ending to your vacation. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITE CULTURAL GEM Follow the songs of the prairie back to the days of the Wild West with an exclusive experience included with your farewell dinner in Calgary. Feel the nostalgic folklore and romance of ranching and roping with cowboy poet’s stories and songs that paint a portrait of the cowhands’ home on the range.
Day 9: Calgary
Location: Calgary
Accommodation Name: Delta Calgary Downtown
Meals Included: Breakfast
CALGARY The Wild Frontier Free time this morning to explore the Calgary Stampede grounds at your leisure with your included admission, including the First Nations village of [LF] Elbow River Camp. Free time this afternoon before Chuckwagon Races and stage show this evening. (B)LOCAL FAVORITE ANCIENT TRADITIONS Immerse yourself in the local First Nations culture with a visit to Elbow River Camp. Learn more about the history with traditional Powwows, flag-raising ceremonies and cultural demonstrations of artisanal work and hand games, utilizing skills and traditions passed down through generations. TOUR HIGHLIGHT CULTURE & TRADITION Step through the gates of Stampede Park into a world of wonder, fun, and “Wild West” excitement. Stroll the streets of a recreated frontier town and enjoy a wide variety of exciting talent at the many entertainment stages. This evening, watch the heart-stopping chuckwagon races in an all-out dash for the finish line, an amazing contest of nerves and horsepower. Afterward, get ready for an outdoor stage show featuring hundreds of singers, dancers, and musicians in a lavishly produced and choreographed musical variety spectacular.
Day 10: Calgary
Location: Calgary
Accommodation Name: Delta Calgary Downtown
Meals Included: Breakfast
CALGARY Ropin’ & Ridin’ Free time this morning. Watch the Calgary Rodeo this afternoon and receive the souvenir program. Remainder of the day is free at the Calgary Stampede grounds. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTSpend another day exploring the traditions of the Wild West on the Calgary Stampede grounds. Visit Rope Square with its variety of Western entertainment and fun. This afternoon, see the best of the best as they saddle up for world-class rodeo action. Top professionals take on the West’s wildest horses. You’ll also enjoy the rodeo’s most famed event—bull riding! Take home a souvenir program to remind you of your time in Calgary.
Day 11: Calgary
Location: Calgary
Meals Included: Breakfast
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay at Delta Calgary Downtown, Bayshore Inn, Grouse Mountain Lodge, Mount Royal Hotel, and Chateau Jasper.
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Meals
Breakfast daily, 1 lunch, and 3 dinners are included.
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Welcome Drink
Meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink on the first day.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier National Park, and more.
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Red Jammer Bus Ride
Scenic ride on the Red Jammer Bus on Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park.
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Ice Explorer Ride
Ride aboard an Ice Explorer at the Columbia Icefield.
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Calgary Stampede Admission
Admission to the Calgary Stampede grounds, including the First Nation village of Elbow River Camp.
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Chuckwagon Races and Stage Show
Watch the Chuckwagon Races and stage show at the Calgary Stampede.
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Rodeo Admission
Admission to watch the Calgary Rodeo, including a souvenir program.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as a helicopter flightseeing trip and a float trip down the Athabasca River are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be purchased separately.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
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Airfare
International and domestic airfare to and from Calgary is not included.
Meals
Breakfast daily, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinner
Notes
Available only on the CSE June 29 & 30 departures. The Calgary Stampede grounds area is large, and guests should be prepared for easy but sustained walking and independent exploration. For grandstand events, there is limited elevator access and limited wheelchair assistance. Visiting and participating in activities in this region may be subject to favorable weather conditions. The visit to Logan Pass, in Glacier National Park, is normally possible from mid-June to mid- September. If unable to travel to Logan Pass, alternative sightseeing by Red Jammer bus will be done.
UNESCO Sites
Banff National Park|Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump|Jasper National Park|Kootenay National Park|Waterton Glacier International Peace Park
Accommodation
Stay at the Delta Calgary Downtown in Calgary, Bayshore Inn in Waterton Lakes Park, Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish, Mount Royal Hotel in Banff, and Chateau Jasper in Jasper.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of activities can I do during the free time in Jasper?
During your free time in Jasper, you can enjoy activities such as hiking, canoeing, and strolling the streets of Jasper.
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What unique experience is included at the Columbia Icefield?
At the Columbia Icefield, you will have a memorable ride aboard an Ice Explorer, which allows you to explore the icefield up close.
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What can I expect during the visit to Maligne Lake?
At Maligne Lake, you will enjoy a narrated cruise of the glacial lake and Spirit Island, followed by a lakeside dinner with incredible views and local fare, including famous Alberta beef.
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What is special about the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park?
The Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of North America's most spectacular highways. You will take a scenic ride on the famous vintage Red Jammer bus, crossing the 6,664-foot-high Logan Pass and entering a geographical wonderland of alpine scenery with jagged mountain peaks.
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What cultural experience is included in Calgary?
In Calgary, you will have the opportunity to visit the Calgary Stampede grounds, including the First Nation village of Elbow River Camp. Additionally, you will enjoy a farewell dinner with entertainment by a local cowboy poet who will bring the region's Western heritage to life through stories and songs.
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What can I do during my free time in Banff National Park?
During your free time in Banff National Park, you can explore the village's shops, galleries, and restaurants. You may also choose to join an optional helicopter flightseeing trip for unsurpassed views of the Rockies.
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What is the significance of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump?
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can discover the longtime relationship between Native people and the vast herds of American Bison. You will see the remains of marked trails, an aboriginal camp, and an ancient burial mound with buffalo skeletons, evidence of a custom used by aboriginal peoples for nearly 6,000 years.
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What is included in the visit to the Calgary Stampede?
Your visit to the Calgary Stampede includes free time to explore the grounds, admission to the First Nation village of Elbow River Camp, and an evening of Chuckwagon Races and a stage show. You will also have the opportunity to watch the Calgary Rodeo and receive a souvenir program.
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What is the highlight of the visit to Lake Louise?
The highlight of the visit to Lake Louise is its world-famous turquoise lake set against the backdrop of Victoria Glacier and soaring mountain peaks. The spectacular beauty of Lake Louise is a rare treasure that must be seen to be believed.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For over 90 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.
Reviews of this operator
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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