Banff: Bear Country Hiking Tour – Full Day Hike /5hrs

The Banff: Bear Country Hiking Tour promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure in the stunning backcountry of Banff National Park. Led by certified mountain guides, hikers will embark on a 20-kilometer journey through breathtaking landscapes, with the chance to spot diverse wildlife like bears and moose along the way. While the moderate difficulty level may pose a challenge, the rewards of this full-day hike are undeniable. From the awe-inspiring vistas of the Canadian Rockies to the serene lunch stop, this tour offers an immersive experience that connects adventurers with the raw beauty of nature. But what makes this hike truly special is the delicate balance between exploration and safety that the guides must navigate.

This experience made our list of the 2 Best Full-Day Tours In Canmore.

Key Points

• This full-day hiking tour in Banff’s backcountry lasts 5.5 hours, with 5 hours of active hiking covering approximately 20 km (12 miles) and 150 m (500 ft) of elevation gain.

• The moderately difficult hike, led by certified mountain guides, offers opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like bears, moose, mountain sheep, and elk.

• The tour includes transportation, park entry fee, safety gear like bear spray, and hiking poles, but excludes meals and optional tips for the guide.

• The hike is not suitable for children under 8 or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, as it requires a certain level of physical fitness and preparedness.

• The tour has a 5-star rating based on customer feedback, highlighting the awe-inspiring views of the Canadian Rockies and the exceptional service provided by the certified guides.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This Banff Bear Country Hiking Tour is a full-day excursion that immerses adventurers in the stunning wilderness of the Canadian Rockies.

Lasting 5.5 hours, with 5 hours of active hiking, the tour is priced from $253.15 per person and offers a private group experience led by a live English-speaking guide.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour departs from the Canmore Recreation Centre, and you will be dropped off at the same location after the hike.

With a moderate difficulty rating, the tour covers approximately 20 km (12 miles) and 150 m (500 ft) of elevation gain, providing opportunities to spot wildlife like bears, moose, mountain sheep, and elk.

Itinerary Details

In an article titled ‘Banff: Bear Country Hiking Tour – Full Day Hike /5hrs’, the Itinerary Details are as follows:

The tour starts at the Canmore Recreation Centre, a hidden gem located at 1900 8 Ave, and you will be dropped off at the same location upon completion of the hike.

The hiking distance is approximately 20 km (12 miles) with an elevation gain of around 150 m (500 ft), making it a moderate difficulty level.

Some key highlights of the tour include:

• Exploring the real backcountry of Banff with certified Mountain Guides

• Marveling at the breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies

• Opportunities to spot wildlife such as bears, moose, mountain sheep, and elk.

Participants will enjoy a lunch stop along the trail, though meals aren’t included in the tour price.

Hiking Highlights

Traversing the real backcountry of Banff with certified Mountain Guides, hikers can marvel at the breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies and seize opportunities to spot a diverse array of wildlife, including bears, moose, mountain sheep, and elk.

The hiking trail covers approximately 20 km (12 miles) with an elevation gain of 150 m (500 ft), making it a moderate-level hike. Along the way, adventurers can pause for a well-deserved lunch break, taking in the serene surroundings.

With the guidance of knowledgeable experts and the provision of essential gear like bear spray, hikers can fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Banff’s bear country, creating memories to last a lifetime.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The Banff Bear Country Hiking Tour includes a professional guide, park entry fee, first-aid kit, bear spray, and hiking poles, ensuring participants’ safety and comfort throughout the excursion.

Transportation to and from the designated meeting point is also provided, allowing for a seamless start and end to the adventure.

However, the tour doesn’t include:

• Meals and drinks along the hike
• Tips for the guide (optional)
• Pre-existing medical conditions that may limit participation

It’s important for hikers to come prepared with appropriate attire, sturdy footwear, and a sense of adventure to make the most of this incredible opportunity to explore the real backcountry of Banff and potentially spot some of the region’s iconic wildlife.

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Participant Restrictions

This tour isn’t suitable for children under 8 years old or individuals with pre-existing medical conditions.

The hiking terrain and potential wildlife encounters require a certain level of physical fitness and preparedness. Children younger than 8 may struggle with the moderate difficulty and long duration of the hike. Similarly, those with pre-existing medical issues could face challenges navigating the uneven ground and steep sections.

The tour operator prioritizes the safety of all participants, so these restrictions are in place to ensure everyone has an enjoyable and secure experience.

Guests should consult with their guides if they’ve any concerns about their ability to complete the full-day hike.

Customer Feedback

Overwhelmingly, customers rave about the ‘Banff Bear Country Hiking Tour’, as evidenced by its flawless 5-star rating based on 2 reviews.

One thrilled explorer, Norine from Canada, described it as an ‘experience of a lifetime’ and praised the professionalism and expertise of the guide, Jacob, who safely facilitated a breathtaking encounter with a grizzly bear.

Customers highlight several key aspects of the tour:

• The opportunity to explore Banff’s real backcountry with certified mountain guides

• Awe-inspiring views of the Canadian Rockies

• Exciting wildlife sightings, including bears, moose, sheep, and elk

With its impeccable safety precautions and exceptional customer satisfaction, this tour offers an unforgettable adventure in Banff’s stunning wilderness.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking the ‘Banff Bear Country Hiking Tour’ is a straightforward process, with customers able to conveniently reserve their spot online or over the phone.

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring flexibility for travelers’ plans. Those who need to make changes or cancel their booking can do so with ease, receiving a full refund if the cancellation is made within the 24-hour window.

This policy allows participants to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if necessary without incurring any penalties.

The tour’s booking system is designed to provide a seamless experience, making it easy for adventurers to secure their spot on this exciting hiking excursion.

About the Guide

Certified mountain guides lead the Banff Bear Country Hiking Tour, providing participants with a knowledgeable and experienced companion throughout the excursion.

These expert guides are intimately familiar with the local terrain, wildlife, and safety protocols, ensuring a safe and unforgettable adventure. Some key traits of the tour guides include:

• Extensive training in wilderness first-aid, navigation, and emergency response

• Passionate about sharing their love of the Canadian Rockies with visitors

• Skilled at spotting wildlife and imparting fascinating information about the local ecosystem

With the guidance of these professionals, hikers can focus on seeing the stunning natural surroundings and maximizing their chances of encountering majestic creatures like bears, moose, and elk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Water?

Yes, participants are welcome to bring their own snacks and water for the hike. The tour operator encourages bringing sufficient food and hydration to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on the trail.

Is There an Option to Shorten the Hike Duration?

There is no option to shorten the hike duration for this tour. The itinerary specifies a 5-hour hiking component as part of the full-day 5.5-hour experience. The tour cannot be shortened without altering the core hiking activity.

Do We Need to Bring Our Own Hiking Gear?

No, you don’t need to bring your own hiking gear. The tour provides professional hiking poles and bear spray. All you’ll need are comfortable hiking clothes and shoes, and snacks/water for the day.

Can We Request a Specific Tour Guide?

Guests can request a specific guide, though availability may vary. The tour operator assigns guides based on factors like group size, expertise, and schedule. Requesting a preferred guide is possible, but not guaranteed.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for Non-Refundable Bookings?

For non-refundable bookings, the cancellation policy allows for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations after this time may not be eligible for a refund.

Recap

The Banff: Bear Country Hiking Tour offers an extraordinary outdoor adventure in the heart of Banff National Park.

Spanning 20 km over 5 hours, this moderate hike provides breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies while offering the chance to spot diverse wildlife.

With essential gear and a picturesque lunch stop, this tour led by certified guides promises an unforgettable experience amidst nature’s beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: