Canadian Rockies with National Park After Dark Community

Dates

Aug 5–11, 2025

Group Size

12–24 Travelers

Duration

7 days, 6 nights

Activity Level

Challenge

About This Trip

The Canadian Rockies are a hiker's paradise, offering a vast array of trails that weave through stunning landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and towering mountains. Begin your adventure with a hike through the scenic wilderness surrounding Banff, where you can explore rugged terrain and spot local wildlife. Next, venture out to the equally stunning Yoho National Park, where you’ll spend a full day exploring the beauty of this lesser known gem. Walk on a glacier and raft through the rapids of the Kicking Horse River. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty and diverse landscapes of the Canadian Rockies with this unforgettable outdoor itinerary. IMPORTANT - This trip is with the NPAD community. It is important that you understand we (Danielle and Cassie) will not be in attendance. We have created this trip to offer additional opportunities for our community to connect and travel together despite our schedule limitations and have chosen this itinerary as it has been one of our favorite trips to date! We will be involved in pre-trip planning, meetings and chats to answer any questions you may have and to join in on the pre-trip fun! Please Note: This is a participatory camping trip, in which all travelers will be assisting in setting up camp and cooking meals. Guides will teach you the best methods for quick set up and take down of tents and will lead the cooking, providing clear instructions and oversight. If you’ve never set up camp or cooked outdoors before, this is the perfect opportunity to learn under expert supervision! Amendment to Traveler Booking Terms - Section 5 of the Traveler Booking Terms located at: https://trovatrip.com/about/booking-terms are amended as follows: 5.30 You agree and acknowledge that you understand there is no Host accompanying you on the trip. The nature of this trip may allow for periodic communications from the Host to you but there is no requirement for such communications.
$1,989USD
$1,989USD
Aug 5–11, 2025
7 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

National Park After Dark
National Park After Dark

Cassie and Danielle here, hosts of the podcast National Park After Dark. Whether you’re traveling with us or the NPAD community, we are here to support you and your relationship with adventure. Our hope is that you create new memories throughout the world in a safe and exciting way while forming lifelong friendships along the way!

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Trip Activities

  • Sentinel Pass Hike in Banff National Park

  • Athabasca Glacier Ice Walk

  • Emerald Lake Hike

  • Kicking Horse River Rafting

  • Iceline Summit Trail in Yoho National Park

  • Free Time in Banff Town

  • Sulphur Mountain Cable Car and Dinner

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in tents

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (afternoon of first day) Please arrive by 3:00 P.M.

  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day). Please book your flights after 2:00 P.M.

  • All Entrance Fees to the Parks and Activities are Included

Not Included

  • International flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for your Guide

  • Sleeping bag and pillow

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Arrive in Calgary and meet up with your group to transfer into Banff National Park and your campsite near Lake Louise. Please note Lake Louise and many parts of the Canadian Rockies sit above 5,000 feet in elevation. If you’re arriving from sea-level or sensitive to altitude sickness it is recommended to make any necessary preparations such as arriving earlier to adjust, or bringing any altitude sickness medication. This evening you’ll set up camp as a group and cook and eat your first meal together.

Airport Transfer

2 Hours

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer from Calgary International Airport (YYC), between 1 pm and 3 pm. Please arrive by 3pm. Exact transfer time within this window will be determined closer to your arrival based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own arrangements to meet the group at the campground. Stops for bathrooms will be made in Canmore if needed.

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Examples of dinners include but are not limited to tacos, pastas, gyros, curries, burgers, and stir fries as a main with a side salad and dessert included. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Camping at Lake Louise (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/4

Lake Louise Campground - Unserviced individual site with on-site Fire Pit.

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Day 2

Info

Today we head to a less explored and stunning area of Banff National Park. After breakfast you’ll head to the trailhead to begin your hike. Embark on this beautiful and challenging trail which ascends through lush forest, alpine meadows, and past picturesque alpine lakes, ultimately reaching a stunning mountain pass. The panoramic views from Sentinel Pass, which include the famous Mount Temple, are breathtaking and make the steep climb and potential exposure to weather conditions worthwhile for experienced hikers. You’ll have lunch during the hike, and after you return to the trailhead in the afternoon you’ll transfer back to the campground for dinner. Time permitting you can make a stop at Lake Louise. Today you’ll want to wear hiking boots, comfortable hiking clothes, a rain jacket, a day pack, water, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Sentinel Pass Hike in Banff National Park

8 Hours

Take a short 30 minute transfer from the campground to the trailhead. Starting on the shores of Moraine Lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, you’ll hike through the Larch valley to reach Sentinel Pass on the shoulder of Mt Temple. Stop and admire the views before hiking back out to Moraine Lake. You’ll return to the van in late afternoon and transfer back to the campground. Elevation: 2,600ft gain / Distance: 7 miles / Duration: 6 hours / Difficulty: Moderate/Advanced

lunch

Included pack lunch on the hike. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches or wraps, and a variety of sides like salads, dips with veggies, crackers, fruits, trail mix, granola bars, etc.

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Examples of dinners include but are not limited to tacos, pastas, gyros, curries, burgers, and stir fries as a main with a side salad and dessert included. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Camping at Lake Louise (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/4

Lake Louise Campground - Unserviced individual site with on-site Fire Pit.

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Day 3

Info

Today you will head north to the Athabasca Glacier. Fill up on breakfast and head through the valley and take in the amazing views. After arriving at the glacier you’ll set out to walk on the ice and learn about the icefield. After, you will have a picnic lunch then you’ll head back toward Lake Louise. You will make stops along the way at various viewpoints to stretch your legs and take photos. Today you’ll want to wear a rain jacket, hiking pants, hiking boots, sunglasses, sunscreen, gloves, hat, and bring water and a day pack.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Transfer to Athabasca Glacier

2 Hours

Take a transfer to the Athabasca Glacier.

Athabasca Glacier Ice Walk

3 Hours

On this 3-hour ice walk tour you’ll be led by a local guide who will lead you on a 3 mile walk on top of the glacier and see amazing sights. The experience of standing on the glacier and being able to view the countless cracks, streams and icy formations up close will be a highlight of the trip! Crampons are provided for the glacier walk.

lunch

Included picnic lunch. Picnic lunches usually consist of sandwiches or wraps, and a variety of sides like salads, dips with veggies, crackers, fruits, trail mix, granola bars, etc.

Transfer to Lake Louise

1 Hour 30 Mins

Transfer back to Lake Louise via the Icefield Parkway. You’ll make stops at Bow Lake and/or Peyto Lake and enjoy a picnic lunch along the way (weather permitting).

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Examples of dinners include but are not limited to tacos, pastas, gyros, curries, burgers, and stir fries as a main with a side salad and dessert included. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Camping at Lake Louise (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/4

Lake Louise Campground - Unserviced individual site with on-site Fire Pit.

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Day 4

Info

Fill up on breakfast and go west! This morning you'll explore Yoho National Park. You'll transfer west from Lake Louise to Emerald Lake and hike around this beautiful blue green gem hidden in the mountains. Then you'll have lunch and continue onward to go rafting on the Kicking Horse River. After suiting up, you'll paddle your way down stream. Finally, dry off and transfer back to Lake Louise. Today you'll want to bring a towel, swimsuit, a change of clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses (with band), water, shoes that can get wet, hiking boots, and a day pack. Changing rooms are available before and after rafting.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Emerald Lake Hike

2 Hours

This morning you will have a brief introduction to Yoho National Park by hiking around Emerald Lake. You'll transfer 40 minutes to the trail head where you'll begin your hike. Starting on a paved trail, hike through the first section of this trail in the forest. The tree will have gaps in between for stunning views. Continue onward and you'll emerge from the trees and onto the lakeshore to get complete and expansive views of the surrounding mountains. You'll finished up by looping back into the pine forest and back to the start. Distance: 3.2 miles / Elevation Gain: 400 feet / Duration: 2 hours / Difficulty: Moderate

lunch

Included pack lunch on the hike. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches or wraps, and a variety of sides like salads, dips with veggies, crackers, fruits, trail mix, granola bars, etc.

Kicking Horse River Rafting

3 Hours

Take a 30 minute transfer to the Kicking Horse River to begin your whitewater rafting! You'll begin your experience with a intro a gear talk before heading to the changing rooms to suit up. Then you'll head onto the river to tackle some of the best rapids in the area! You will navigate Class II - IV rapids as you paddle down seven and a half miles of river. You will only need a swimsuit and a towel. Wetsuits, neoprene booties, polar fleece sweaters (depending on weather), hooded spray jackets, helmets and life jackets are provided.

Transfer to Lake Louise

1 Hour

After changing into dry clothes, you'll transfer back to Lake Louise.

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Examples of dinners include but are not limited to tacos, pastas, gyros, curries, burgers, and stir fries as a main with a side salad and dessert included. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Camping at Lake Louise (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 4/4

Lake Louise Campground - Unserviced individual site with on-site Fire Pit.

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Day 5

Info

Today after breakfast you’ll head west to reach Yoho National Park. Yoho is a Cree expression meaning amazement and wonder, and with its massive ice fields, impressive waterfalls and jade green lakes, Yoho is a special place with an incredible density of must-sees. You’ll explore the park during the day via the Iceline Summit Trail, enjoy lunch, and then you’ll head to Banff to set up camp. Today you’ll want to wear hiking boots, comfortable hiking clothes, a rain jacket, a day pack, water, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Iceline Summit Trail in Yoho National Park

6 Hours

This morning you’ll tackle one of Yoho’s signature treks: the Iceline Trail. After a 45 minute transfer from the campground, you’ll begin the trek next to the majestic Takakkaw Falls, the 2nd highest in Canada. Taking you up the east side of the President’s range this hike offers incredible views of the falls, the Waputik Icefield and the Daly Glacier to the east. Once you finish the hike, you’ll transfer back to the campground. Elevation: 3000ft gain / Distance: 9.5 miles / Duration: 6-7 hours / Difficulty: Advanced

lunch

Included pack lunch on the hike. Pack lunches usually consist of sandwiches or wraps, and a variety of sides like salads, dips with veggies, crackers, fruits, trail mix, granola bars, etc.

Transfer to Banff

1 Hour 15 Mins

Transfer from Yoho National Park to Banff.

dinner

Included dinner at camp. Examples of dinners include but are not limited to tacos, pastas, gyros, curries, burgers, and stir fries as a main with a side salad and dessert included. Your camp menu will vary and be decided based on your guide's recipe repertoire!

Tunnel Mountain Campground (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/2

Overnight near Banff Town.

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Day 6

Info

After breakfast today you’ll the whole day to explore the charming town of Banff. Check out the many shops and have lunch (at your own cost) at one of the many amazing restaurants the town has to offer. In the evening, you will head to Sulphur Mountain and onto the cable car which will take you to the look out up top. Enjoy the aerial view of Banff and the surrounding landscape as you enjoy your final meal with your new group of friends. After dinner you’ll return back to the campground.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Transfer to Banff

3 Hours 30 Mins

Take a scenic transfer along the Icefield Parkway on your way back to Banff. You will make stops along the way at viewpoints and for restroom breaks, where you can stretch your legs. Possible stops include Athabasca Falls, Herbert Lake, Waterfowl Lake, and the Saskatchewan crossing.

Free Time in Banff Town

7 Hours

Your last day is at your leisure! Freely explore the charming mountain town of Banff and its many shops and restaurants. If you still feel like exploring, take a leisure stroll along the river or rent bikes (at your own cost) and explore some local trails!

Sulphur Mountain Cable Car and Dinner

3 Hours

Take a 15 minute transfer to Sulphur Mountain. Then ride the cable car up to 7,500 feet and take in the sweeping views from the restaurant and look out above. Cable cars fit 2-4 people max. Then enjoy your final meal set against the majestic views of the surrounding mountains.

dinner

Included dinner at the Northern Lights Buffet. Your meal will be a buffet style with free refills on non-alcoholic beverages, subject to change.

Tunnel Mountain Campground (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/2

Overnight near Banff Town.

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Day 7

Info

It’s time to say goodbye for now! After breakfast, you’ll be transported to the airport with our warmest wishes for happiness and safety wherever your travels may lead. We ask that you please book your flight for after 2 pm.

breakfast

Breakfast at camp is included. Typically camp breakfasts are served cold with the occasional hot breakfast served, time permitting. Common camp breakfasts include bagels, toast, yogurt, cereal, fruit, juice, and coffee/tea.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour 30 Mins

TrovaTrip will provide 1 transfer to Calgary International Airport (YYC) on the last day. Please book your flights after 2pm. Exact transfer time will be determined closer to the trip departure based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers departing outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to the airport.

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Physical Activity Level:Challenge

These trips are designed to increase your heart rate. You can expect daily hikes or swims, long-distance bike rides and a good amount of sweat. These itineraries are meant for adventure and are perfect for those with a higher level of physical fitness. Some training may be required to prepare for these trips.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.