Day Trip to Icefield Parkway, Johnston Canyon From Calgary, Banff

Setting out on a day trip from Calgary to the Icefield Parkway and Johnston Canyon is an opportunity to witness the breathtaking natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Travelers can explore narrow canyons, marvel at cascading waterfalls, and capture stunning vistas at Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, participants can enjoy the region’s rich history and geography. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or an avid hiker, this tour offers an unforgettable experience that promises to leave you captivated by the majesty of the Banff National Park.

Good To Know

• This day trip from Calgary takes visitors to explore the scenic Icefield Parkway, including Johnston Canyon, Lake Minnewanka, and Two Jack Lake.
• The best time to visit is during the winter months (November to April) for hiking and photography opportunities.
• The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and a bilingual driver/guide to provide an informative journey.
• Optional activities and excursions can be booked in advance, such as guided hikes and helicopter tours.
• The tour is not recommended for travelers with mobility issues or serious medical conditions, and special needs should be communicated in advance.

Tour Overview

On this day trip to the Icefield Parkway from Calgary, travelers can experience the stunning natural beauty of Johnston Canyon, Lake Minnewanka, and Two Jack Lake.

The best time to visit is during the winter months between November and April. Highlights include opportunities for hiking, photography, and spotting herds of bighorn sheep.

The air-conditioned vehicle and bilingual driver/guide ensure a comfortable and informative journey. While meals and personal expenses aren’t included, optional activities and excursions can be added if booked in advance.

With a maximum group size of 50, the tour offers a personalized experience for all.

Highlights of the Day

According to the tour overview, the highlights of this day trip along the Icefield Parkway include the stunning Johnston Canyon, the serene Lake Minnewanka, and the opportunity to spot herds of bighorn sheep at Two Jack Lake.

Johnston Canyon offers a breathtaking hike through narrow canyons and past cascading waterfalls. Lake Minnewanka, just a short drive away, provides a peaceful setting for relaxation and photography.

Meanwhile, the chances of seeing majestic bighorn sheep at Two Jack Lake make for an unforgettable wildlife encounter. Throughout the day, participants can enjoy the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies and capture stunning photographs to commemorate their experience.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle and a bilingual driver/guide proficient in both Mandarin and English.

Plus, the tour provides traffic accident liability coverage. However, meals and personal expenses like laundry and phone usage aren’t included.

Optional add-ons such as activities, excursions, and meals can be booked at least 10 days in advance, subject to availability.

Participants should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible. Infants must sit on laps.

Due to the nature of the activities, the tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Optional Add-Ons

Travelers have the option to book additional activities, excursions, and meals through the tour operator, but they must do so at least 10 days prior to the tour date. These add-ons are subject to availability.

Popular choices include guided hikes, helicopter tours, and restaurant reservations. Participants should communicate any special dietary requirements or activity preferences well in advance.

While the tour includes transportation and a bilingual guide, meals and personal expenses aren’t covered.

Meeting Points and Logistics

Pickup options for the day trip to the Icefield Parkway and Johnston Canyon include either meeting the group directly at a preferred location or requesting a pickup. The tour returns to the original meeting point at the end. The group size is limited to a maximum of 50 travelers. If participants have any special needs, they must communicate them to the tour operator at least 7 days in advance.

Meeting Point Options	Pickup Location
Directly at preferred location	Requested pickup
Meeting point	Return to meeting point
Maximum 50 travelers	Special needs 7 days in advance

Health and Safety Considerations

According to the information provided, the day trip to the Icefield Parkway and Johnston Canyon isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s stroller accessible.

Infants must sit on laps during the tour. The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Participants must fill out a "Letter of Liability Release" if they wish to leave the group at any point. This ensures Westar Tours, the tour operator, isn’t responsible for any incidents that may occur.

Cancellation Policy and Responsiveness

Westar Tours offers a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the start of the day trip experience. This provides flexibility for travelers who may need to change their plans.

Plus, Westar allows customers to reserve their spot now and pay later, making it easier to book the tour.

While Westar isn’t responsible for delays due to external factors like weather or traffic, they advise travelers to ensure their connecting flights depart after 10:30 PM post-tour to avoid any issues.

With a total review count of 4.0 out of 5 from 5 reviews, Westar demonstrates a responsive approach to customer needs and satisfaction.

Customer Reviews

Customers generally express satisfaction with the Icefield Parkway day trip, praising the knowledgeable guide and scenic stops along the route.

The tour boasts a 4.0-star rating from 5 reviews, with customers highlighting the opportunity to spot wildlife like bighorn sheep.

While the weather can be unpredictable, the tour operator give you a flexible and responsive experience, allowing for free cancellations and a "reserve now, pay later" option.

Participants note the tour’s suitability for photography enthusiasts and hikers, though it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues or serious medical conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour operator’s policy states that only service animals are permitted to accompany participants. Bringing any other pets would not be permitted for the safety and comfort of all travelers.

What Is the Dress Code for the Day Trip?

The tour operates in the winter, so participants should dress warmly in layers, wearing comfortable boots or shoes for hiking. Outdoor wear like coats, hats, and gloves are recommended to stay comfortable during the day’s activities.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Meals?

The provided information does not mention any included meals, so there are no dietary restrictions specified for this tour. Participants are responsible for covering their own meal expenses during the day trip.

Is There an Age Limit for Participating in the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a specific age limit. However, it’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions. Infants must sit on laps during the tour.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Tour if I Want To?

Participants can extend the tour duration, but must book any additional activities or excursions at least 10 days in advance, subject to availability. Extensions may incur extra costs and should be communicated with the tour provider ahead of time.

The Sum Up

This day trip from Calgary to the Icefield Parkway offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the stunning natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Guided hikes through narrow canyons and past picturesque waterfalls make it an ideal choice for photography enthusiasts and hikers. With a professional driver/guide and small group size, participants can look forward to a personalized and memorable adventure.