5 Day Rockies Mountains and Glaciers Tour, Icefield Parkway Hotel

Planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies? We recently looked into this 5 Day Rockies Mountains and Glaciers Tour offered by Westar Travel, and it seems like a solid way to experience some of Canada’s most breathtaking natural wonders without a lengthy commitment. If you’re someone who loves dramatic mountain scenery, iconic lakes, and Glacier ice adventures, this tour could be just what you’re after.

Two things that really stand out for us: First, the expert guides who bring the scenery to life with their knowledge, and second, the carefully curated stops that include Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Columbia Icefield. But keep in mind, a possible downside is the group size—with up to 50 travelers, it’s not a private experience, so you’ll want to be comfortable sharing busy spots. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, no-fuss introduction to the Rockies, especially first-timers or travelers with limited time.

Key Points

• Well-rounded itinerary covers major highlights like Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, and Glacier experiences.
• Guides are knowledgeable, making the journey more engaging and informative.
• Comfortable accommodations at key locations keep the experience relaxing.
• Good value for the price, considering all included activities and park passes.
• Group size can be up to 50, so expect a lively atmosphere and some crowded spots.
• Weather-dependent — any cancellations are handled with alternative plans or refunds.

A Deep Dive into the 5-Day Rockies Experience

If you’re looking for a tour that balances sightseeing, education, and comfort, this five-day adventure ticks most boxes. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the best of the Rockies without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Here, we’ll break down what you can expect each day and why it might be worth your time.

Easy Start with Airport Pickup and Hassle-Free Arrival

The tour kicks off with a complimentary pickup from Calgary International Airport. That’s a pretty sweet way to start, especially if you’re arriving after a long flight. It means no stressing over transportation—you’re right into the adventure from the moment you land. This seamless start sets a relaxed tone for what’s ahead.

Day 1: Connecting with Calgary and the Surroundings

Your trip begins in Calgary, a city that offers a nice preview of what’s to come. While the tour highlights the natural beauty around, there’s also an optional guided city tour if you arrive early and want to stretch your legs. This initial day is more about settling in and soaking up the scenery—think mountain peaks, forests, and the gentle buzz of a city blending into wilderness. It’s a good chance to get familiar with the area and adjust to the time zone.

Day 2: Banff National Park and Iconic Views

The real action starts on Day 2 with your drive to Banff. Our guide, with their extensive local knowledge, makes the journey informative and lively. The stops include the Banff Gondola, which offers panoramic 360-degree views of the Rockies—definitely a highlight. The gondola ride, while not included in the tour, offers an experience that many travelers find worth the extra cost.

Other stops like Hoodoos Trail, Bow Falls, and Surprise Corner provide a variety of landscapes—from strange wind-carved rock formations to roaring waterfalls and classic mountain vistas. The Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, also called the “Castle of the Rockies,” is worth a peek, even if just for photos.

A personal favorite here is Johnston Canyon, where you walk among soaring limestone cliffs and waterfalls—a photographer’s dream. As one reviewer put it, they loved the “stunning waterfalls and vibrant forest landscapes shaped by water erosion.”

Day 3: Lakes and the Icefields Parkway

This day truly showcases the iconic beauty of the Rockies. You’ll visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, two of the most photographed spots in Canada. We love how the tour gives you plenty of time here, so you can simply relax, take photos, or wander along the shoreline. Moraine Lake offers a small Rockpile for a panoramic shot of its famous turquoise waters.

Next, the tour continues along the Icefields Parkway, often called one of the world’s most scenic drives. Stops at Bow Lake and the Columbia Icefield Skywalk offer stunning views and a taste of the vast glaciers that shape the landscape. The Skywalk, a glass-floored platform perched above the Sunwapta Valley, is a thrill and provides jaw-dropping views of glaciers and waterfalls below.

The day ends in Jasper, giving you a chance to settle into your accommodations amid the mountain scenery. Based on reviews, many travelers appreciated the well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing with some downtime.

Day 4: Discovering Jasper’s Natural Wonders

Jasper is another highlight, and the day is packed with memorable stops. The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre introduces you to one of North America’s largest ice masses, with options to explore via Ice Explorer rides (not included, but highly recommended). The waterfalls—Sunwapta and Athabasca—are powerful sights that make you feel small amid nature’s grandeur.

We especially liked the stop at Maligne Lake, famous for Spirit Island. A reviewer described it as a “deep spiritual place,” and the turquoise waters surrounded by towering cliffs create a picture-perfect scene.

The day wraps up with more stunning vistas and a relaxingly scenic drive back to Jasper, giving you time to reflect on the glacier-carved landscapes.

Day 5: Final Day of Walks and Views

The last day is a fitting farewell to the Rockies. Stops include Pyramid Lake, Maligne Canyon, and Peyto Lake, each offering unique scenery—from crystal-clear waters to deep, winding gorges. The Natural Bridge is a quick stop to admire the river carving through ancient rock.

The tour ends back in Calgary, where you’ll leave with a camera full of images and a heart full of memories. Many reviews mention how the day’s stops felt well-chosen, providing a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation.

The Value and Practicalities

At $1,201.43 per person, the tour isn’t cheap, but it includes many of the major attractions, hotel stays, park passes, and transportation. The all-inclusive aspect, combined with the convenience of guided tours, makes it a good deal for those who prefer not to navigate on their own or deal with logistics.

The group size, up to 50 travelers, means you’ll share the experience with many others, which can be fun but also means some spots might be crowded—especially at popular stops like Lake Louise. The schedule is weather-dependent, which is important to remember if you’re visiting in shoulder seasons. The company’s policy of offering refunds or alternative dates in case of cancellations adds some peace of mind.

What We Like

We appreciated the expert guides who brought the scenery to life with their stories and insights. The stops are well thought out, giving a mix of famous sights and lesser-known gems. The accommodations, particularly at the Icefield Parkway Hotel and in Banff and Jasper, are cozy and comfortable, providing a much-needed rest after long days of exploring.

Things to Consider

A possible downside? The size of the group might mean a less intimate experience, especially at crowded spots. Also, optional activities like gondola rides and Maligne Lake cruises cost extra, so budget accordingly if you want to expand your experience. Weather can impact the schedule, so flexibility is key.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown with minimal planning. First-timers to the Rockies will appreciate the guided approach, and those with limited time can see a lot without missing out. It’s a good fit for active people who enjoy natural scenery and don’t mind sharing the experience with a larger group.

Final Thoughts

This 5-day Rockies tour offers a well-organized way to tick off the most iconic Canadian mountain sights, with plenty of opportunities for great photos and memorable moments. The combination of knowledgeable guides, comfortable hotels, and carefully curated stops makes it a practical choice for travelers seeking a hassle-free adventure.

While the price is on the higher side, the inclusive nature and the sheer volume of stunning scenery packed into five days justify it for many. If you’re looking for an immersive, scenic, and engaging way to explore the Rockies, this tour could be just what you’re after.

However, if you prefer a quieter, more private experience or want to customize your stops and activities, you might find this tour a little crowded or too structured. Still, for first-timers or those eager to see the highlights without the stress of logistics, it’s a solid option.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included? Yes, the tour offers complimentary pickup from Calgary International Airport, making your start smooth and stress-free.

What is the group size? The tour can have up to 50 travelers, so expect a lively group; it’s not a small, private tour.

Are all major attractions included? Most highlights are included, such as Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Columbia Icefield. Some optional activities like gondola rides cost extra.

What accommodations are provided? You’ll stay in cozy hotels over four nights, including the Icefield Parkway Hotel and accommodations in Banff and Jasper.

Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, the itinerary can be affected by weather and road conditions. In case of cancellations, you’ll be offered alternative dates or refunds.

Can I customize the experience? Since this is a guided group tour, customization options are limited. However, optional activities are available at additional cost.

This tour packs some of Canada’s most stunning scenery into a manageable five days, making it a tempting choice for those eager to experience the Rockies without long stays or complicated planning. If you value expert guides, scenic stops, and a comfortable base to explore from, it’s worth considering.