A vast land of endless adventures
Canadian Rockies, Canada
Driving along the dramatic Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper, that’s when you realise just how big and spectacular the Canadian Rockies are. Yes, the scenery is rather like Switzerland – soaring peaks, craggy glaciers, emerald lakes – but it’s on a scale far greater than anything in Europe. This is landscape with a wide-angle lens, where the mountains and the wilderness seem never-ending. But it’s also home some of North America’s best wildlife, from grizzly bears to grey wolves. Come and discover why the Canadian Rockies are the Canada of postcards.
The best of Banff
The Rockies’ handsome capital is the gateway to the spellbinding Banff National Park – Canada’s first national park and a place of endless valleys, lofty mountains, thick forests and turquoise lakes, such as the famous Lake Louise and ethereal Moraine Lake. Canoeing, kayaking, cycling, hiking, horse riding or simply relaxing in nature are some of the amazing adventures you can embark on in this outdoor wonderland.
An amazing train journey
Who hasn’t dreamed of travelling on the Rocky Mountaineer train? Sit back in a luxurious carriage and watch the spectacular scenery – think cascading waterfalls, rugged mountains, glistening lakes and roaming wildlife – unfold before you while the engaging onboard hosts share informative stories over a gourmet meal. No matter which route you choose, with Cosa you can be sure to have a trip of a lifetime.
The call of the wild
About a quarter the size of Switzerland, Jasper is the largest of Canada’s Rocky Mountain parks. It also has the best wildlife: elks, bears, bald eagles, bighorn sheep and moose all call it home, and Cosa can arrange for a private guided conservation tour. When night falls, gaze up at the stars: the Royal Astronomy Society of Canada designated Jasper a Dark Sky Preserve.
Escape into nature
Yoho is a Cree word meaning ‘wonder and awe’ and Yoho National Park is just that. It may be the smallest of the Rocky Mountain parks, and less visited than its neighbours, but it certainly packs a punch. Standouts include Takakkaw Falls (the second-tallest in Canada), the mesmerising Emerald Lake and the Kicking Horse River, which owes its name to an encounter with a feisty horse.
Essential Canadian Rockies
Part of the North American Rocky Mountains, the Canadian Rockies span both British Columbia and Alberta, with charming mountain towns and some of Canada’s most beautiful national parks. From the highest peak of Mount Robson (3954m) to scenic routes such as the Bow Valley Parkway, the region is truly nature’s playground. Whether it’s biking in Banff or hiking in Yoho, how ever you want to experience the Rockies, Cosa can help plan your perfect adventure.
Where it is
Canada
When to go
May to October
Why go there
Epic scenery
Wildlife watching
Adrenaline pumping activities
What to see
Banff
Jasper
Yoho
