Cave and Basin National Historic Site

Take an evening sunset walk and watch the stars come out while experiencing nature at remote trail locations. Watch a stunning mountain sunset and feel the awe of seeing the first stars appear. Explore Banff National Park like never before and see nature by night. Be escorted by professional mountain guides and see more of the area with the use of headlamps and lanterns. Hike along local trails around Banff and take the unique opportunity to watch the nocturnal world come to life.

Start the tour in Banff where you will meet a member of the riding office, who will check you in and provide you a helmet for your ride. From here, walk back outside into the sunshine and meet your trusty horse. Using a step, climb onto your horse under the direction of your guide, and learn some basic horseback riding techniques. Follow your guide along the tranquil Bow River and past the historic Cave and Basin Hot springs - the original birthplace of Banff National Park. This area is home to wildlife in amongst the thick marshes and grassy meadows. Enjoy unspoiled views of the magnificent Rocky Mountains along the way. After 1 hour of scenic horseback riding, return to the stables, where you'll disembark and say goodbye to your horse with some farewell pats.

Meet your guide at the stables in Banff, where your adventure will begin. After check in at the office, walk back outside into the sunshine and meet your trusty horse that will be pulling your wagon.  Embark on a 1-hour ride along the Bow River and past the historic Cave and Basin hot springs towards the BBQ spot at 3 Mile Cabin. Upon arrival, let the cook know how you would like your steak cooked or first try a round of lassoing or horseshoes. Tuck into your cooked-to-order steak along with a roasted potato, cowboy baked beans, coleslaw, buns, and dessert. This sheltered lunch spot has comfortable picnic benches and there's plenty of time to relax by the fire or try some western style games after lunch if you prefer. After your tasty BBQ, take a 1-hour ride back along the Sulphur Mountain Trail and up and around the Windy Knoll, where you can see dazzling views of the surrounding mountains. Back at the stables, disembark the wagon and say goodbye to your horse with some farewell pats. Please note, our establishment is located in a remote backcountry area. Due to our unique location, our kitchen operates with limited resources. We are unable to accommodate requests beyond our set menus.

Experience the best of Banff National Park in one day on a bus tour from Calgary. Choose your itinerary and start your day by ascending Sulphur Mountain aboard the Banff gondola at your own expense for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. Alternatively, relax and rejuvenate at Banff's natural hot springs at your own expense, soaking in the mineral-rich waters surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. For an extra dose of nature, visit the iconic and thundering Bow Falls and Surprise Corner's viewpoint. Add a leisurely shopping spree and lunch at your own expense in the charming town of Banff, known for its quaint shops, galleries, and delicious dining options. Conclude your day with a visit to Johnston Canyon and hike along the canyon's edge, marveling at its stunning waterfalls and turquoise pools, before heading back to Calgary.

Start the tour in Banff where you will meet a member of the riding office, who will check you in and provide you a helmet for your ride. From here, walk back outside into the sunshine and meet your trusty horse. Set off on a 3-hour ride following your guide along winding trails through the Bow Valley's rustic terrain and grassy meadows. The ride continues past the tranquil Bow River and bubbling thermal waters of the historic Cave and Basin area to the Sundance Canyon Trail. As you ride into thick forest in this wildlife-rich area, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for elk and other animals. Finally, ride up Sulphur Mountain to the Windy Knoll viewpoint, where sweeping views over the Bow Valley await. On the return journey your small group will loop back to Warner Stables where you will disembark and give your trusty horse some much-deserved pats.

Day 1: Banff and Yoho National Parks 1. Lake Louise - 60 minutes Start your adventure with a visit to the iconic Lake Louise. Spend an hour marveling at the stunning turquoise waters surrounded by majestic mountains and glaciers. 2. Moraine Lake (June 1 - Oct 13) - 60 minutes/ Marble Canyon (Alternative between Oct 14 - May 31) Next, visit Moraine Lake, famous for its striking blue color and the breathtaking Valley of the Ten Peaks. 3. Lake Louise Village & Lunch Stop - 45 minutes Travel to Lake Louise Village for a lunch break. 4. Emerald Lake - 30 minutes After lunch, head to Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park. Spend 30 minutes taking in the vibrant green waters and the surrounding mountain scenery. 5. Natural Bridge - 15 minutes End your day with a quick stop at the Natural Bridge, a fascinating rock formation over the Kicking Horse River. 6. Choose either Banff Avenue (45 min) or Bow Falls (15 min) Day 2: Banff National Park Highlights 1. Johnston Canyon - 75 minutes Begin your day with a hike at Johnston Canyon. Spend 75 minutes exploring the well-maintained trails and viewing the impressive Falls. 2. Banff Town Free Explore & Lunch Stop - 80 minutes Head to Banff Town for some free time to explore. Stroll through the charming streets, visit local shops, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the many restaurants or cafes. 3. Surprise Corner - 10 minutes Make a quick stop at Surprise Corner for a stunning view of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and the Bow River. 4. Banff Gondola or Banff Upper Hot Springs - 90 minutes (Extra fee tickets) Take the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. Spend 90 minutes enjoying panoramic views of the Rockies, walking the boardwalk, and visiting the interpretive center. Treat yourself to unparalleled relaxation at the Upper Hot Springs, where you can enjoy mineral-rich, warm waters. Enveloped by the majestic peaks of Rundle and Cascade Mountains, soak in the outdoor pool amidst captivating natural beauty. 5. Bow Falls - 10 minutes Visit Bow Falls, located near the Banff Springs Hotel. Spend 20 minutes walking along the Bow River and admiring the cascading waterfalls. 6. Two Jack Lake & Lake Minnewanka - 35 minutes Day 3: Icefields Parkway and Jasper National Park 1. Crowfoot Glacier (Pass By) Begin your journey along the Icefields Parkway with a scenic drive past Crowfoot Glacier. This impressive glacier is easily visible from the road, making it a great spot for a quick photo stop. 2. Bow Lake - 20 minutes This glacial lake, with its deep blue waters and surrounding mountain peaks, is a must-see along the Icefields Parkway. 3. Columbia Icefield - 180 minutes (Extra fee tickets) Arrive at the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest icefields in the Canadian Rockies. Spend 3 hours here, including time for a guided tour on the Athabasca Glacier and skywalk. 4. Peyto Lake - 20 minutes This glacier-fed lake is famous for its striking turquoise color and wolf-shaped outline.

Embark on a breathtaking journey through the majestic landscapes of Banff National Park. Start your adventure with a hike at Johnston Canyon, where you will explore well-maintained trails leading to impressive waterfalls. Continue to Banff Town for free exploration and a leisurely lunch amid charming streets and local shops. Capture the iconic view of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel from Surprise Corner, a perfect spot for memorable photos. Choose between the Banff Gondola, offering panoramic views from Sulphur Mountain's summit, or the soothing Banff Upper Hot Springs, where you can relax in mineral-rich waters surrounded by the stunning peaks of Rundle and Cascade Mountains. Visit Bow Falls and enjoy a short walk along the Bow River, followed by a visit to Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka, known for its indigenous heritage and winter ice skating. On the second day, marvel at Moraine Lake's vivid blue waters and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Alternatively, explore Marble Canyon's towering cliffs and turquoise waters. Experience the beauty of Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau, followed by a lunch stop at Lake Louise Village. Conclude with visits to Emerald Lake and the Natural Bridge in Yoho National Park, and choose between exploring Banff Avenue or revisiting Bow Falls. The tour ends back in Banff, providing a perfect opportunity for further exploration or relaxation.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Banff National Park, accessible only via hiking or biking. This leisurely e-bike ride begins in central Banff along the Bow River pathway system before travelling along a wooded pathway to reach Cave & Basin National Historic Site, birthplace of Canada's National Park system. Continue along the Bow River via the paved bike path to reach Sundance Canyon Trailhead. From here we lead you on a 2km easy hiking route through lush alpine forest, crossing several small wooden bridges while taking in the rushing waters of Sundance Canyon. Take in commanding views of the Bow Valley, Mt. Norquay, Mt. Edith and Mt. Cory, before continuing the forest hike back to your ebikes for the return ride to Banff. Level of Activity: Easy Distance: Approx. 12 km biking 2km hiking Tour Length: 3 hour round trip Note: Bookings require minimum 24 hours notice. Bookings made with less than 24 hours notice will need to be manually confirmed by contacting our office by phone.

· Surprise Corner (15 min) · Bow Falls (15 min) · Banff Gondola (Optional, additional fee) (75 min) · Banff Town (60 min, lunch Time) · Basin and Cave Historical Site (45 min) · Lake Minnewanka (20 min) · Two Jack Lake (15 min) Your adventure begins at Surprise Corner, where you'll take in breathtaking views of Banff Town and the grand Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. This scenic spot offers a perfect vantage point of the "Castle in the Rockies," framed by the Bow River and surrounding mountains. Next, visit Bow Falls, a powerful waterfall that has been featured in Hollywood films. The sound of rushing water and the stunning natural setting make it a must-see stop. Take the Banff Gondola (Optional, additional fee) up Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of the Rockies. Once at the summit, you can explore the boardwalk, learn about the region’s history, or simply soak in the stunning vistas. Enjoy a relaxing lunch stop in Banff Town, where you can explore local shops, cafés, and restaurants. This charming mountain town offers a great mix of nature, culture, and history. Step back in time at the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, the birthplace of Canada’s national parks. Discover the warm mineral springs, unique cave formations, and the fascinating history behind the park's creation. Then, visit Lake Minnewanka, a glacial lake surrounded by stunning mountain peaks. This pristine lake is a great spot for photos and a moment of tranquility in nature. Conclude your journey at Two Jack Lake, a serene and scenic spot perfect for capturing stunning photos. Whether covered in ice during winter or reflecting the mountains in summer, it's a breathtaking way to end your adventure.

Join us for an immersive 1.5-hour history walking tour of Lower Bankhead in Banff, where the allure of the Canadian Rockies converges with a rich historical narrative. Your adventure begins with convenient transportation from our meeting location, ensuring a comfortable and seamless experience as you travel to the site. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your knowledgeable and passionate professional guide, who will set the stage for an engaging exploration of Lower Bankhead’s intriguing past. Once a bustling coal mining town in the early 1900s, it played a significant role in the industrial growth of the region. As you walk through the remnants of this once-thriving community, your guide will share captivating stories about its founding, the challenges faced by its residents, and the eventual decline of the town when coal mining operations ceased. The tour will take you along well-preserved paths, offering a closer look at various structures and artifacts that speak to the daily lives of Lower Bankhead’s inhabitants. You'll see the remains of houses, the iconic coal tipple, and other significant buildings that tell the story of resilience and adaptation in the face of adversity. With every step, your guide will bring history to life, shedding light on the people who lived and worked here, including the miners, their families, and the community's culture. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to engage with your guide, asking questions and sharing your thoughts. The guide will encourage exploration and discussion, allowing you to delve deeper into aspects of history that capture your interest. Additionally, as you stroll through this beautiful area, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the majestic mountains and lush landscapes that define Banff National Park. This setting serves as a stunning backdrop that enhances the overall experience, reminding you of the natural wonders that coexist with this historical narrative. The tour is designed to be accessible to participants of all ages and fitness levels, making it a perfect activity for families, solo travelers, or groups. As you conclude your walking tour, you will be transported back to your starting point, reflecting on the stories and anecdotes you've learned along the way. This journey not only enriches your understanding of the past but also deepens your appreciation for Banff's cultural heritage and natural beauty. Prepare to step back in time and uncover the hidden stories of Lower Bankhead, making lasting memories in one of Canada’s most stunning locales.