Banff’s Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour with Lunch promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Travelers will soar above the majestic Purcell Mountains, spotting the elusive Boo, the resident grizzly bear, and indulge in a delectable lunch at the highest eatery in Canada. With visits to the breathtaking Takakkaw Falls and serene Emerald Lake, this tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Banff National Park’s natural wonders. Whether you’re an avid nature enthusiast or simply seeking a unique experience, this 10-hour excursion is sure to leave you captivated and eager to uncover more of the Rockies’ enchanting landscapes.
Key Points
- This 10-hour adventure includes a visit to the Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge to observe Boo, the resident grizzly bear.
- The tour features a scenic gondola ride to the Purcell Mountains and a lunch at the Eagles Eye Restaurant, Canada’s highest eatery.
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off service are available on request, reducing stress and ensuring on-time arrival.
- The tour includes admission to the grizzly bear refuge and professional certified guide services.
- The meeting point is a conveniently located public bus parking spot near hotels, with ample public parking available.
Activity Details
This grizzly bear refuge tour offers visitors a 10-hour adventure, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.
The highlight is meeting Boo, the resident grizzly bear, at the Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge.
Guests will also soar to the heights of the Purcell Mountains in an enclosed sightseeing gondola and enjoy lunch with stunning views at the Eagles Eye Restaurant, Canada’s highest eatery.
Other stops include the impressive Takakkaw Falls and the famous Emerald Lake.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a professional certified guide, and a small-group experience are all included.
Visitors should note that this tour is likely to sell out, and early/late season bookings may have itinerary changes.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Banff.
Tour Highlights
The Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour with Lunch offers a range of exciting highlights for visitors, from meeting Boo the resident grizzly bear to soaring high above the Purcell Mountains in an enclosed gondola.
You’ll visit the Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge and get up close with the magnificent Boo.
Then, you’ll take a thrilling ride on the gondola, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Lunch at the Eagles Eye Restaurant, Canada’s highest eatery, provides panoramic vistas to complement your meal.
The tour also includes visits to Takakkaw Falls, one of the country’s tallest waterfalls, and the famous Emerald Lake, famed for its striking jade-colored waters.
Inclusions
The Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour with Lunch includes a hotel pick-up and drop-off service (available on request), a professional certified guide, and a small-group tour. It also provides admission to the grizzly bear refuge, a gondola ticket, and a lunch at the Eagles Eye Restaurant.
The tour’s inclusions are:
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off service (available on request)
- Professional certified guide
- Gondola ticket to the Purcell Mountains
These comprehensive inclusions ensure a seamless and memorable experience for visitors, allowing them to fully enjoy the wonders of the Grizzly Bear Refuge and the stunning natural beauty of the Banff region.
Meeting Point
Participants meet at the public bus parking spot behind the Mount Royal Hotel, arriving 5 minutes prior to the 8:12am pick-up time. This convenient meeting point ensures a smooth start to the day’s adventure. From here, the tour group will depart for the Grizzly Bear Refuge and other scenic destinations.
Activity | Details |
---|---|
Meeting Point | Public bus parking spot behind Mount Royal Hotel |
Arrival Time | 5 minutes prior to 8:12am pick-up |
Tour Departure Time | 8:12am sharp |
Proximity to Hotel | Conveniently located |
Parking Availability | Ample public parking |
The meeting point’s central location and ease of access make it an ideal starting point for the Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour with Lunch.
More Great Tours NearbyHotel Pick-up and Drop-off
For added convenience, the tour operator offers hotel pick-up and drop-off upon request, allowing participants to start and end their day seamlessly. This service is particularly helpful for those staying in Banff or the surrounding area, as it eliminates the need to worry about transportation to and from the meeting point. The pick-up and drop-off can be arranged by the customer when booking the tour, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Some key benefits of this service include:
- Reduces the stress of navigating unfamiliar locations and finding parking.
- Allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable start and end to the day.
- Ensures participants arrive on time and don’t miss any part of the tour.
Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour
After being conveniently picked up or dropped off, the highlight of the day is the Grizzly Bear Refuge tour, where visitors can meet Boo, the resident grizzly bear.
At the refuge, you’ll learn about the bears’ habitat and conservation efforts. You’ll be able to observe Boo’s natural behaviors from a safe distance, as the refuge is designed to mimic the bear’s natural environment.
The knowledgeable guide will share fascinating facts about grizzly bears and their role in the ecosystem. This up-close encounter with a magnificent wild animal is sure to be a memorable part of your Banff adventure.
Gondola Ride and Lunch
Next, guests soar to the heights of the Purcell Mountains in an enclosed sightseeing gondola, offering panoramic views of the stunning alpine landscape.
Afterward, they enjoy lunch and breathtaking vistas at the Eagles Eye Restaurant, Canada’s highest dining hotel.
The experience includes:
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Savoring a delectable lunch featuring local, seasonal ingredients while gazing out at the majestic mountain scenery.
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Relishing the unique opportunity to dine at the lofty Eagles Eye Restaurant, perched 7,700 feet above sea level.
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Marveling at the exceptional vantage point provided by the gondola ride, which allows visitors to fully appreciate the grandeur of the Purcell Mountains.
Important Considerations
Guests should be aware that the Grizzly Bear Refuge Tour is likely to sell out, and early or late season bookings may result in itinerary changes.
Plus, while a grizzly bear sighting is guaranteed, the tour operator provides a free next tour if guests don’t see one.
It’s important to note that infant rates don’t include food, so parents should plan accordingly.
This tour offers a unique opportunity to see Canada’s iconic grizzly bears in their natural habitat, along with stunning mountain scenery and a delicious lunch at the highest restaurant in Canada.
Booking early is recommended to secure a spot on this popular tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?
No, bringing your own food is generally not allowed on guided tours. The tour includes a provided lunch, so outside food and drinks are typically prohibited to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
Are There Any Accessibility Options for the Gondola Ride?
The tour operator offers an accessible gondola that accommodates guests with mobility needs. Passengers in wheelchairs or with other disabilities can board the gondola with assistance from the staff. Advance notice of any special requirements is recommended.
What Should I Wear for the Tour?
For the tour, dress in comfortable, weatherproof layers. Bring sturdy hiking shoes, a warm jacket, and sun protection like a hat and sunglasses. The weather can be unpredictable, so dress for the outdoors to ensure you enjoy the day.
Can I Extend the Tour or Add Extra Activities?
Yes, you can often extend tours or add extra activities. Contact the tour operator to inquire about available options and costs. They’ll be able to customize the experience to meet your needs and interests.
Are There Any Age or Health Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour has no age restrictions, but participants must be able to walk moderate distances and board the gondola. Those with health concerns should consult the tour operator to ensure they can fully participate.
Recap
This Banff Grizzly Bear Refuge tour promises an unforgettable adventure.
Guests can observe the resident grizzly bear, Boo, soar on a sightseeing gondola to the Purcell Mountains, and savor a delectable lunch at Canada’s highest eatery.
With visits to Takakkaw Falls and Emerald Lake, this tour offers a well-rounded experience of Banff National Park’s stunning natural wonders.
Convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off service ensures a stress-free day exploring the Rockies.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Lunch Experiences in Banff
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