Embark on an exclusive backcountry hiking adventure in the breathtaking landscapes of Lake Louise. This guided tour showcases the stunning vistas of the Canadian Rockies, including the Bow Valley, Cory Pass, and Mount Louis. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll traverse alpine terrain and gain insider insights into the local area. The tour includes essential safety measures and logistical support, ensuring a memorable and exhilarating experience. But what makes this hike truly special goes beyond the captivating scenery – it’s the opportunity to learn about the heart of the Canadian wilderness.
This experience made our list of the 16 Best Guided Tours In Banff.
Good To Know
- This exclusive guided hike in Lake Louise takes hikers through the stunning Bow Valley, Cory Pass, Gargoyle Valley, and up to Mt. Louis.
- The challenging loop hike is suitable for adventurous travelers with a high endurance level and requires sturdy hiking boots.
- The tour includes a driver, interpretive guide, lunch options, and hotel transfers from Banff, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.
- Participants will enjoy panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies and encounter diverse wildlife, with the guide providing local insights and stories.
- Confirmation, appropriate attire, and disclosure of any medical conditions are required prior to the hike, which has a maximum group size of 12.
Overview and Highlights
The Skoki Backcountry Guided Hiking in Lake Louise offers an exclusive opportunity for adventurous travelers.
This highly-rated tour boasts 22 reviews with a 95% traveler recommendation. It’s an exceptional hike featuring stunning views of the Bow Valley, Cory Pass, Gargoyle Valley, and Mt. Louis.
As one of the few loop hikes in the region, it’s ideal for strong hikers seeking a challenge. The tour includes a professional driver, an interpretive guide who provides commentary and local stories, bottled water, lunch options, and hotel transfers.
With a maximum group size of 12, this guided hike ensures a personalized and comfortable experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Banff.
Inclusions
This guided hiking tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the experience.
Hikers will receive bottled water, soft drink, or juice to stay hydrated throughout the day. A delicious lunch option of a turkey sandwich (or other options upon request) is provided, along with a cookie and fresh fruit.
Hotel transfers from selected locations in Banff are included, as well as gratuities. The tour is limited to a maximum of 12 travelers per group, ensuring a personalized and intimate adventure.
- Bottled water, soft drink, or juice
- Turkey sandwich (or other options)
- Cookie and fruit
- Hotel transfers and gratuities
Pickup Information
From the Mount Royal Hotel at 138 Banff Avenue in Banff, Alberta, the pickup location is in the bus parking lot behind the hotel, at the corner of Caribou and Beaver Street. Participants should arrive at the meeting point by 8:20 AM and look for the white high roof van. The meeting time and location are clearly specified to ensure a smooth and timely start to the guided hiking tour.
Meeting Point | Meeting Time |
---|---|
Mount Royal Hotel, 138 Banff Avenue, Banff, Alberta | 8:20 AM |
Bus parking lot behind Mount Royal Hotel, corner of Caribou and Beaver Street | Look for white high roof van |
What to Expect
Confirmation is received at the time of booking for this guided hiking tour.
Participants should come prepared in weather-appropriate attire, including layers and a rain jacket, as well as sturdy hiking shoes or boots. A strong physical fitness level is necessary, as this hike is challenging and not suitable for those with serious medical conditions, such as heart problems.
Participants will also need to advise their choice of sandwich prior to the hike, which is included along with bottled water, a soft drink or juice, and a cookie and fruit.
- Weather-appropriate attire with layers and rain jacket
- Sturdy hiking shoes or boots required
- Strong physical fitness level necessary
- Advise sandwich choice prior to hike
Safety and Health Guidelines
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, participants mustn’t have any serious medical conditions, such as heart problems.
Strong physical fitness is essential, as the hike is challenging and requires a high level of endurance. Participants should confirm their physical abilities before booking the tour.
It’s crucial to notify the guide of any health concerns or limitations prior to the hike. The tour company reserves the right to refuse participation if a guest’s fitness level or medical condition poses a safety risk to themselves or the group.
Proper hiking gear, including sturdy boots, is mandatory for this backcountry adventure.
Breathtaking Scenery
The Skoki Backcountry Guided Hike treats trekkers to awe-inspiring vistas of the Canadian Rockies. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the Bow Valley, Cory Pass, Gargoyle Valley, and the majestic Mt. Louis.
This loop hike is one of the few in the region, offering a unique and challenging experience for avid outdoor enthusiasts. The guided tour provides detailed commentary and local stories, enhancing the overall experience.
Participants can expect to encounter:
- Breathtaking alpine landscapes
- Serene glacial lakes
- Towering limestone peaks
- Diverse wildlife habitats
Professional Guidance
Professional guides lead the Skoki Backcountry Hiking tour, providing expert interpretations and local insights throughout the experience. They share stories and anecdotes that bring the landscape to life, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders.
Knowledgeable and attentive, the guides ensure a seamless and enriching journey, attending to the needs of each guest. With a maximum of 12 travelers per group, the tour provides a personalized and intimate experience, allowing for ample opportunities to ask questions and engage in discussions.
The professional guidance, combined with the breathtaking scenery, makes this Skoki Backcountry Hiking tour a truly exceptional outdoor adventure.
Logistics and Preparation
Travelers meet at the designated pickup location, the bus parking lot behind the Mount Royal Hotel, at the corner of Caribou and Beaver Street in Banff, Alberta.
The tour operator provides hotel transfers, a professional driver, and an interpretive guide who shares commentary and local stories during the journey.
Travelers are required to have strong physical fitness and appropriate hiking gear, such as sturdy shoes or boots.
To ensure a smooth experience, hikers are advised to:
- Confirm hotel pickup time and location prior to the hike
- Advise their choice of sandwich before the hike
- Dress in weather-appropriate attire with layers and a rain jacket
- Bring no serious medical conditions that could impact the hike
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Level of Difficulty for This Hike?
The hike is designed for strong hikers, requiring a high level of physical fitness. The tour provider clearly states that a strong physical fitness level is necessary for participants to fully enjoy this challenging loop hike.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions, but it’s recommended for participants with a strong physical fitness level. The hike is considered challenging, so older adults or children may find it difficult.
Can I Bring My Own Lunch or Snacks?
While the tour provides lunch options, participants are permitted to bring their own food and snacks. However, the tour staff recommends advising them of any special dietary needs or preferences prior to the hike.
Are There Any Refunds or Cancellation Policies?
There are cancellation and refund policies in place. Full refunds are available if cancelled 7+ days prior to the hike. Partial refunds may apply for shorter notice cancellations. Guests should review the policy details when booking.
How Much Time Is Allocated for the Hike?
The hike typically takes 6-7 hours to complete. The guides allow ample time for the loop hike, which covers impressive views of the Bow Valley, Cory Pass, Gargoyle Valley, and Mt. Louis.
The Sum Up
This exclusive Skoki Backcountry guided hike in Lake Louise offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies. With a knowledgeable guide, hikers can expect breathtaking vistas, personalized insights, and an exhilarating adventure traversing stunning alpine landscapes. Comprehensive safety measures and logistical support ensure a memorable and unforgettable experience in one of Canada’s most picturesque destinations.
More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Banff
More Guided Tours in Banff
- Banff Cave & Hot Springs Self-Guided Walking Tour (Not a Ticket)
- Listen to a Tour Guide as You Drive & Walk With Our Discover the Rockies Package
- 4-7 Hours Private Guided Tour in Lake Moraine and Lake Louise
- Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Daily Guided Hike – Easy
- Sunshine Meadows Vistas – Guided Hike (Easy)
- 2-Hour Guided Banff Townsite E-Bike Explorer
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