Documenting Lovely Moments
Ultimate Canadian Rockies Summer Family Adventure
Visiting the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, Canada is one of our family’s all-time favorite vacations, packed with fun adventures. We stepped on the Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefield Skywalk. We discovered the different personalities of Canada’s popular lakes, from Lake Louise, Lake Agnes, Emerald Lake, Moraine Lake, to Peyto Lake. Getting up-close to the rapid waters at Takakkaw Falls, Natural Bridge, and Mistaya Canyon was incredible. We also had fun hiking at Johnston Canyon, spotting local wildlife, riding the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain, cruising on Lake Minnewanka, downhill-karting and visiting the zoo in Calgary. Last but not least, we went on amazing excursions such as going underground inside Rat’s Nest Cave and whitewater-rafting on Kananaskis River.
Trip Overview
Trip Length:
12 days/11 nights
See Itinerary
Locations:
Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Canmore, Calgary
Arrive and Return:
Calgary International Airport (YYC)
Canadian Rockies Trip 12-Day Itinerary
See our Amazing 12-Day Canadian Rockies Summer Itinerary
See Points Of Interests on Google Maps
Trip Highlights
Canoeing on the glacier-fed Lake Louise, then hiking up to Lake Agnes for a delicious teatime at Lake Agnes Teahouse. Read more >
Climbing up to the viewing platform to see the incredible wolf-shaped Peyto Lake and surrounding peaks. Read more >
Enjoying a morning walk around the serene Emerald Lake, and brunch afterwards at the iconic Emerald Lake Lodge’s Mount Burgess dining room. Read more >
Going on the Ice Explorer and walking right on an active glacier that loses depth at about 5 meters every year. Read more >
Stepping on the glass-floored lookout 918 feet above the spectacular Sunwapta Valley, with a fantastic view of the Rockies. Read more >
Soaking in the natural beauty of Moraine Lake, that is famous for its truly-stunning and iconic turquoise blue water. Read more >
Getting up close to the second tallest waterfall in Canada to feel the mist and listen to the sound of this magnificent nature. Read more >
Going on a cruise tour at Lake Minnewanka to see the Rockies from a different angle. The captain even let the kids take the wheel. Read more >
Listening to the sound of rapid, rushing water at Mistaya Canyon, a hidden gem accessible with a short, delightful hike. Read more >
Hiking up to the Beehive viewpoint and Mirror Lake, and having delicious tea and pastries at the historic Lake Agnes Teahouse. Read more >
Riding the Banff Gondola to the summit of Banff’s Sulphur Mountain and strolling on the boardwalk to Sanson’s Peak. Read more >
A delightful hike at Johnston Canyon, with beautiful waterfalls, overhanging canyon walls, and lush forest. Read more >
Appreciating the amazing work of nature that was gradually formed over time by the Kicking Horse River to resemble a bridge. Read more >
The fun and splashy whitewater-river rafting at Kananaskis River was a wonderful, thrilling experience. Read more >
Crawling, climbing, sliding, and squeezing into tight passages during our Canmore Caving Adventure was an epic experience. Read more >
Travel Tips
Be An Early Riser
Most landmarks in the Rockies are popular tourist destinations. Start your day early to avoid crowd and to get a parking space.
Dress in layers to prepare for unpredictable weather, even during the summer months. See our Canadian Rockies Trip Packing List.
Respect the Wildlife
Do not feed or approach the wildlife. Be prepared to stop in traffic to allow wildlife crossing the street.
Things To Do
Check out our Top Things to do and see in the Canadian Rockies during the summer months.
The summer months (mid-June to September) are popular times to visit the Rockies. Book your accommodation at least six months before your trip for best prices and availability.
Park Passes
Passes are required to enter a National Park. To save time, you can purchase National Park Passes online here.
