Imagine an endless expanse of powder-topped fields, ice covered lakes, and snow-kissed mountain peaks. This fantasy wonderland isn’t just for storybooks; it comes to life once a year in the rustic townships and elegant mountain ranges of Alberta, Canada. Visit some of the most visually arresting winter vistas, nestled deep within the Rocky Mountain Range. Wander along the crash of waterfalls, the chatter of lakeside villages, and the serene silence of mountaintop snowbanks. Take leisurely sleigh rides drawn by horses and exhilarating sled runs led by dogs. Settle in nightly with hot cocoa and hearty meals as the warmth of another perfect day fills you with that feeling of magic that lives in snowflakes, chilly purple skies, and brisk winter winds.
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Land in the snow-white embrace of winter as you arrive in Calgary, a city of charm and warm welcomes situated on the sparkling banks of the Bow River. Sit down for a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers at one of the best restaurants in the city, the Char Cut Roast House. The rest of your evening is at leisure to relax or explore the eclectic cosmopolitan offerings within walking distance of your accommodation. HYATT REGENCY CALGARY
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Today you’ll be treated to the spectacular vista of the Kananaskis Valley. This sprawling artwork of nature will be brisk and glittering in the winter sun as you tuck in for an old-fashioned horse-drawn sleigh ride. Wrap yourself tight in the blankets provided as the sleigh glides along a winter oasis of frosted mountains and cheery streams of chimney smoke winding out of the multi-colored cottages along the village lane. Enjoy a traditional ranch lunch before strapping on snow shoes and learning how to walk in the deep powder, surrounded by a storybook panorama of the mountain peaks and the sounds of frosty bubbling from the slowly freezing rivers around you. BLACKSTONE MOUNTAIN LODGE.
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Begin today by delving into the water-sculpted passages of one of Canada’s longest caves. Follow your expert guide along crystal water pools and ancient rock formations, learning about the fossils and pre-historic cave art that surround you. Rat’s Nest Cave is a protected natural treasure, only accessible with permission and an approved guide. This is no ordinary caving experience! In the afternoon, head to Banff, a rustic prairie town with many wide spaces devoted to its agricultural industry. In the winter, the once verdant pastures are covered with perfect blankets of snow, interrupted only by the occasional elk or fox leaving prints in the pristine perfection. Enjoy lunch on your own in the lively downtown area or spend the free time wandering through the river trails and scenic enclaves of the town. Tonight, light your lantern and raise it high as you explore the Cave and Basin World Heritage Site under cover of darkness, learning how the Canadian National Parks system came into existence. End the evening with a hearty dinner at one of Alberta’s premiere steak houses before falling into your luxurious, warm bed back at your lodge. BANFF CARIBOU LODGE.
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Set off on foot this morning on a historic walking tour of Banff, where you’ll follow in the footsteps of the pioneers who settled this ruggedly beautiful frontier. Your guide will paint a picture of the past around you, leading you through town and to the Luxton family estate. Later, ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain, a romantic means to a truly heartstopping 360-degree view of the surrounding mountain peaks of six different mountain ranges, Lake Minnewanka, and the Bow Valley. A short hike along Sanson’s Peak will put you in prime position for viewing winter wildlife on the mountain. This evening, thaw out at Banff Upper Hot Springs & Spa, a natural mineral spring with steaming hot water and luxurious spa treatments. BANFF CARIBOU LODGE.
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Travel along one of the 10 most scenic drives in the world, the Icefield Parkway, on your way to Jasper. Everywhere you look there are snow-covered mountain peaks and with over 100 glaciers to see along the roadway you will be amazed at the glacial formations that carved the valleys of Alberta. Stop at sights like Crowfoot Glacier, Bow and Peyto Lake as you make your way towards The Athabasca Glacier. As you travel along the parkway search for elk, moose, and mountain goats amongst towering waterfalls and rock formations. Your exceptional hotel is located right in Jasper and offers all comforts and amenities. THE CRIMSON JASPER.
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Today enjoy one of Jasper’s most popular and impressive winter adventures. Follow your expert guide all the way to the bottom of the Maligne Canyon – the deepest accessible canyon in Jasper National Park – where you will explore frozen waterfalls, ice caves, and incredible ice formations. You will learn about Jasper’s Maligne Valley, Karst topography, and the mystery of the “disappearing” Medicine Lake. 3,5km, mostly downhill, 3-3.5 hours. The rest of the day is at leisure in Jasper to explore this quaint town on your own. THE CRIMSON JASPER.
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Drive to Lake Louise to join a team of expert mushers and their incredible trained teams of dogs. Today you get to try something few humans ever will – dog sledding! Whip through the trails of Lake Louise aboard your sled with the excited yips and slushy pawprints of your team of sled dogs leading you. The rest of the day is at leisure to revisit the sights, sounds, and experiences that have filled this adventure with magic. Join your fellow travelers for a farewell adventure before tucking in for the night. Surrounded by soaring mountain peaks, the majestic Victoria Glacier and a frozen lake in the winter, your iconic hotel enjoys one of the most idyllic spots on earth and is world-renowned for progressive environmental stewardship and responsible tourism. THE FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE.
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It’s sadly time to say goodbye to this mystical winter paradise as you head back to Calgary to board your flight home, taking with your photos, new friendships, and memories that will last you a lifetime.
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Prices vary by season and package. Please inquire by phone at (800) 627-1244 or email info@classicescapes.com for more information and a pricing estimate.
YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES:
- Superior accommodations throughout as indicated, or similar.
- All meals as specified.
- Services of a specialist guide throughout the tour.
- Airport transfers, transportation as noted in the itinerary in motor coach or van.
- Baggage handling.
- All park and admission fees.
- All applicable hotel and lodge gratuities and taxes.
- Complimentary baggage tags and passport wallet.
- Complimentary emergency evacuation insurance.
From snowy winters to mild summers, Albe rta enjoys all four seasons. With mo re than 2,300 hours of sunshine a year, Alberta ranks the highest in Canada. Although Alberta is an all-year destination with some of the best skiing in the world, co u- pled with the most fascinating landscapes, our summer program is best during May through Se ptember and our winter program November through March.
