Included: An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 5 days of guided hiking Daily transportation from your hotel to the hiking areas Accommodation on Day 3 & 4 Permit and entrance fees 5% GST Not included: Transportation to/from Banff Accommodations on Day 1 & 2 (must be in Banff) Meals and snacks National Park Pass — can be purchased once you arrive Guide gratuities — optional Travel and medical insurance — optional

How fit do I need to be?

This hiking tour in the Canadian Rockies is best experienced with a good fitness level and some previous multi-day hiking experience. The most you’ll hike within a day is 15 km (9.3 miles), with 900 m (2,950 ft) of elevation gain and loss. As long as you can handle such distances and gains over 5 consecutive days, you’re good to go! Keep in mind, the weather in summer can be very hot and you’ll also be packing a daypack filled with water and other things you’ll need throughout the day.

Waiver and release of liability

Liability waivers are a standard part of all guided outdoor adventures. Recently, the requirements have become a bit more rigorous for ACMG guides—meaning that you’ll need to agree to the signing of the waiver at the time of booking. Prior to booking, we ask you to review the waiver . During the checkout process, you’ll have to acknowledge the risks and agree to the signing of the waiver. You are required to bring a printed copy on the trip. Please note that signing and agreeing to the terms of the waiver is required in order to join this adventure. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us prior to booking.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-40L bag) Hiking poles Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Warm clothing Spare clothes for layering Waterproof rain jacket Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Camera — optional (but recommended) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and prices: For this hiking adventure in Banff, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 6:1. That’s also the maximum group size. It takes a minimum of 3 people for this tour to operate. Hiking in the Canadian Rockies can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements: If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to Banff National Park, most people fly into Calgary International Airport . Once you’re there, you have a 1.5-hour drive to Banff. You can either rent a car or take a shuttle service. Make sure to arrive a day prior to Day 1 of the tour, as you’ll get straight into your hiking adventure on Day 1. Also note that apart from Day 3 & 4 of the tour, accommodation is on you—please choose accommodation in Banff, but feel free to reach out to us before booking it.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection . To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible , simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner ! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

Secure your 2026 Early Bird spot with only a 10% deposit

Banff National Park | Alberta

Hiking in the Canadian Rockies’ Wilderness With Lake O’Hara

5.00

Cory Pass and Gargoyle Valley in Banff NP.

Two happy hikers in the Canadian rockies

Hiking tour in Banff in the Canadian Rockies.

Bow Lake, Helen Lake, and Wapta Icefield.

From $1,229 ()

Cancel in the first 48h for free

Reserve your spot with a minimum deposit

Travel and medical insurance available

Got questions or need a private booking?

Book a call

Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Reviews
Things to know

Duration

5-6 days

Season

July through September

Group size

Up to 8 people

With vast stretches of untamed beauty of multiple national parks, the Canadian Rockies make for an unrivaled guided hiking experience. And it’s no wonder—the views here look ripped from the pages of National Geographic: sharp-ridged peaks of the Gargoyle Valley, emerald hues of the surreal Lake O’Hara, or monumental glaciers above mirroring lakes. Feel the remoteness of the Canadian wilderness by walking along well-maintained trails, which offer over a thousand miles of unparalleled hiking opportunities. Make sure to keep a watchful gaze for any signs of the wildlife roaming these lands: it’s not uncommon to spot bighorn sheep, bull elk, or mountain goats, just to name a few!

Adventure highlights

Canadian Rockies' best-ofs

Countless hiking trails winding their way through unspoiled wilderness, including to Lake O’Hara
Lessons from the guide

Explore and learn about the local flora and fauna right from the trail
Straight-off-a-postcard views

Hike along spectacular mountains, sparkling lakes, mighty glaciers, and other natural marvels

From $1,229 ()

Cancel in the first 48h for free

Reserve your spot with a minimum deposit

Travel and medical insurance available

Got questions or need a private booking?

Book a call

Highlighted reviews from other travellers

Lisa L.

|September 2024

This is the first time taking in a hiking trip to this degree, it was very much out of my comfort zone and scary for a single woman of my age. But glad I took the leap. It was exciting, exhausting, wonderful to see the beautiful mountains and lakes. I have been raving to my family and friends the beauty of the Canadian Rockies and my experience. The negative I have with the adventure is the hostel being sprung on me. I was not informed from 57 hours directly that this had changed until I went out to the “brochure” on the website. Very disappointed that a representative could not call me directly and talk me through on what this meant in the change. Please realize, not everyone would feel good sleeping in a same building with the opposite sex that they do not know. It seemed I had no choice in this situation, from the emails I received back from 57 hours in this situation.

RJK1414

Knowledge and trust

If your looking for an adventure in the wilds of Alberta and need a professional guide service, look no further. My recent mountaineering trip to Banff was a moving experience thanks to Alpine Air guides Jeff and Jess. Their experience, easy-going personalities, and knowledge of the region made this trip memorable and safe- not to mention some tasty food along the way as well. You will learn, and you will do more than you thought you could. Outstanding guide service. Outstanding guides. Beautiful country. I highly recommend Alpine Air.

MParker_117

Making your adventure a reality

The small but dedicated team at Alpine Air Adventures is eager to make sure you get the adventure you are seeking. There are several guiding companies in the area and I reached out to them all when planning my trip to Banff. AAA was responsive, answered all my questions, and provided additional details to help pick my route, and they were also among the most affordable. As a small shop, they can keep their costs down while their service remains high. My guide listened to what I wanted, used his local knowledge and expertise to pick out a climb that ticked all my boxes, then took me on an adventure that I won’t soon forget.

Show all reviews

Itinerary

Download itinerary

Discover and enjoy an abundance of breathtaking adventures on this five-day guided hiking trip through the Banff National Park. Learn about the indigenous nature and culture of the Canadian Rockies. Let your guide take you on some of the best trails this area has to offer — spend your days making friendships with other hikers in the group, and explore the splendid Canadian landscape!

After meeting with your guides in Banff, let’s kick off the trip with one of the most beautiful gems in the Canadian Rockies—Lake O’Hara! This is a very scenic hike leading you to this turquoise alpine lake at 6,630 ft. Due to Parks Canada regulations, it is extremely difficult to access this pristine alpine area, but you don’t have to worry about that when you go out with your ACMG guides. You will visit Lake O’Hara, Lake Oesa, Opabin Lake, and the Opabin plateau today.
Today we’ll hike 15 km (9.3 miles), with 900 m (2,950 ft) of elevation gain and loss. As we ascend up and over Cory Pass, we will enjoy the amazing valley of the Gargoyles on the backside. Then, we will pass under the flanks of Mt Louis. And then it’s back to Banff for food and refreshments. A stark lunar style landscape with a drier climate than the continental divide hikes awaits us today!
We will have the opportunity to hike right up to the Victoria glacier, an amazing place surrounded by rock walls and glaciers descending from the high peaks. This is one of the world’s most photographed mountains! We’ll spend the night at the Lake Louise Alpine Center or a similar mountain hostel.

Accommodation: Lake Louise Alpine Center or mountain hostel
We will leave Lake Louise and head up the Icefields Parkway towards Jasper National Park, hiking up to Helen Lake on the Dolomite Pass circuit. The mighty Wapta icefields dominate the western skyline, the headwaters of the Bow river. That evening, we will arrive at the Rampart Creek Hostel and experience the relaxed living of life in the Rockies.

Accommodation: Rampart Creek Hostel
We will drive a short distance to the North, entering Jasper National Park. We will enjoy a must-do hike into Wilcox meadows Mt Wilcox ascent, with magnificent views of the world-renowned Columbia icefields. The drive back to Banff may include short stops at waterfowl lakes and Bow Lake Lodge.

Hiking in the Canadian Rockies’ Wilderness With Lake O’Hara

Adventure Brochure

Brochure sent, check your inbox

If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guide

5.00

Alpine Air Adventures

You’re never on your own in the Banff wilderness because the experienced professionals from Alpine Air Adventures are here to guide you. While they know how to have a great time, they’re always mindful of advanced safety practices. They’re committed to showing each of their guests the best of the Rockies while protecting them every step of the way.

5.00(3 reviews)

Lisa L.

|September 2024

RJK1414

Knowledge and trust

MParker_117

Making your adventure a reality

Show all reviews

Lisa L.

|September 2024

RJK1414

Knowledge and trust

MParker_117

Making your adventure a reality

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 5 days of guided hiking
  - Daily transportation from your hotel to the hiking areas
  - Accommodation on Day 3 & 4
  - Permit and entrance fees
  - 5% GST
Not included:
- - Transportation to/from Banff
  - Accommodations on Day 1 & 2 (must be in Banff)
  - Meals and snacks
  - National Park Pass — can be purchased once you arrive
  - Guide gratuities — optional
  - Travel and medical insurance — optional
This hiking tour in the Canadian Rockies is best experienced with a good fitness level and some previous multi-day hiking experience. The most you’ll hike within a day is 15 km (9.3 miles), with 900 m (2,950 ft) of elevation gain and loss. As long as you can handle such distances and gains over 5 consecutive days, you’re good to go! Keep in mind, the weather in summer can be very hot and you’ll also be packing a daypack filled with water and other things you’ll need throughout the day.
Liability waivers are a standard part of all guided outdoor adventures. Recently, the requirements have become a bit more rigorous for ACMG guides—meaning that you’ll need to agree to the signing of the waiver at the time of booking.

Prior to booking, we ask you to review the waiver. During the checkout process, you’ll have to acknowledge the risks and agree to the signing of the waiver. You are required to bring a printed copy on the trip.

Please note that signing and agreeing to the terms of the waiver is required in order to join this adventure. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us prior to booking.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Day pack large enough to carry all the items listed (around a 25-40L bag)
  - Hiking poles
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Warm clothing
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and prices:
- - For this hiking adventure in Banff, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 6:1. That’s also the maximum group size.
  - It takes a minimum of 3 people for this tour to operate.
Hiking in the Canadian Rockies can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements:
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Banff National Park, most people fly into Calgary International Airport. Once you’re there, you have a 1.5-hour drive to Banff. You can either rent a car or take a shuttle service.

Make sure to arrive a day prior to Day 1 of the tour, as you’ll get straight into your hiking adventure on Day 1. Also note that apart from Day 3 & 4 of the tour, accommodation is on you—please choose accommodation in Banff, but feel free to reach out to us before booking it.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.

Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.

Basic
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Flexible
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled 30-59 days before departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 29 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
Super Flexible
- - If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
  - If canceled 30 or more days before departure, a full refund of the total trip price will be issued.
  - If canceled within 29 days of departure, a 50% refund of the total trip price will be issued
Early Bird booking

Want to be the first one to know when we publish new dates or secure your spot well in advance? Select a future month that suits you best and lock in your Early Bird spot in time with just a 10% deposit.

As soon as our guides publish new tour dates, you’ll be the first one to know. We’ll hold your spot for 2 weeks until you choose the date that suits you best.

More about how Early Bird bookings work below:
- - Only a 10% non-refundable deposit must be paid upon booking, but this deposit can be transferred to any other 57hours adventure in case the dates don’t end up working for you.
  - Once our guides publish new tour dates, we’ll reach out to you so you’ll be the first one to choose from newly released dates.
  - When you pick your date, you’ll confirm your booking by paying another 20% of the total trip amount (amounting to the standard 30% deposit).
  - Once the trip has been confirmed, the regular cancellation policy (found above) applies.
  - The remaining balance is due 90 days before the trip.