Canadian Rockies
Backcountry Hiker

Hike in the Remote Backcountry of Banff National Park

Experience an alpine wonderland of wildflower-blanketed meadows, towering summits laden with glistening glaciers, and snow-fed sapphire lakes as we trek to two of Banff National Park's remote backcountry lodges. Enjoy the hospitality of our hosts and savor home-cooked meals served family style. Then venture out to explore the surrounding playground of forests, peaks, streams and lakes during the day and gaze at star-filled skies each night.

Days 1-2 Deception Pass-Skoki Lodge-Merlin Lake. Hike through verdant valleys and over Boulder and Deception Passes to secluded Skoki Lodge, a very special find set among the towering peaks of the Slate Range. The following day ascend to Merlin Lake, a little-known gem set between the exotically named Wall of Jericho and Merlin's Castle. After lunch, enter a forest of 250-year-old spruce and fir trees before the views open to reveal a spectacular panorama of peaks.

Day 3 Lake Louise-Deer Lodge. After a hearty breakfast, bid farewell to Skoki Lodge and hike back to civilization. Tonight, savor the heavenly comforts of historic Deer Lodge, featuring gourmet dining and an idyllic setting just a short walk from the shores of Lake Louise. Don't miss the lodge's rooftop jacuzzi that affords stunning views of the surrounding peaks.

Days 4-6 Red Earth Creek-Shadow Lake Lodge-Gibbon Pass. Hike along Red Earth Creek and through high alpine meadows to Shadow Lake Lodge. Upon arrival take off your hiking boots, kick your feet up and settle in to your comfy cabin which will be home for the next two nights. Take in the views of Mt. Ball from your deck or take a short walk to the lake. Keep an eye out for moose as we hike the next day through open meadows en route to Haiduk Lake. Our route out of the backcountry takes us over Gibbon Pass with views of Assiniboine Mountain far to the south and then near the shores of snow-fed Twin, Arnica, and Vista Lakes.