Heli-Hiking in the Canadian Rockies 2013

Upon arrival into Calgary Airport, transfer to our hotel in Banff for the start of our tour. Once in Banff, you’ll be amazed at its breathtaking scenery. For those who arrive early enough, you’ll enjoy walking the streets of this quaint Canadian town, nestled in the mountains. Tonight, we’ll have a special welcome dinner together. (D)

Day 2 – Thursday, August 29     Banff – Bugaboos Lodge

Early this morning, we transfer from our hotel to the Brewster Transportation Centre.

We depart Banff for the ground transfer to the Bugaboos Helipad. A light breakfast snack is provided onboard the bus. Our route takes us westward from Banff National Park then southward into Kootenay National Park to Radium Hot Springs before heading north through the Rocky Mountain Trench.

At approximately 10:00 am, we arrive at the helipad for the quick, exhilarating flight to Bugaboos Lodge. We meet our certified guides upon arrival. After settling into our rooms, we are outfitted with all the necessary hiking gear and get acquainted with helicopter safety procedures. After lunch, fly up for an afternoon of orientation to some of the world’s most stunning scenery. We’ll fly back to the lodge in the afternoon for snacks, beverages and relaxation time. At our lodge, dinner is served family style with guests, staff and guides eating together, topped off with dessert prepared by Bugaboo’s resident pastry chef. (B, L, D)

Day 3 – Friday, August 30     Bugaboos Lodge

Each day begins with a stretch class followed by a full breakfast. At approximately 9:00 am, we’ll depart the lodge by helicopter, one group at a time, accompanied by a guide, for a full day of adventure, exploring the immense variety of landscapes in the Bugaboos. Choose from hiking, or if you are an adrenaline junkie, participate in one of our high flying adventures such as the via ferrate. Take a packed lunch with you each day for a picnic in the mountains. Return to the lodge later in the afternoon for tea goodies and relaxation in the lounge. You might opt for a massage (extra fee) to unwind at the end of the evening before or after dinner. Tonight, we’ll have a Shabbat Service, followed by dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 4 – Saturday, August 31     Bugaboos Lodge

After our early morning stretch class followed by a full breakfast, we’ll get into our hiking groups and depart the lodge by helicopter, for another full day of adventure and beauty. Imagine being on the top of a mountain, looking down at the lower peaks and valleys. It’s an unbelievable experience! Again, you may choose from hiking, or participate in one of our high flying adventures such as the via ferrate. Take a packed lunch with you and dine al fresco amidst the stunning scenery. Return to the lodge later in the afternoon for tea goodies and relaxation in the lounge, sauna or Jacuzzi before or after dinner. (B, L, D)

Day 5 – Sunday, September 1     Bugaboos Lodge – Calgary

This morning, we’ll enjoy one last breakfast at the lodge, before we prepare for departure back to civilization. We’ll go via Heli-exchanges between the lodge and helipad until all of the guests are at our landing site and our awaiting motorcoach. We’ll be returning through Kootenay and Banff National Parks to Banff and Calgary. A boxed lunch is provided for the return trip. We’ll arrive in Calgary at approximately 4:00 pm and enjoy the evening in this wonderful city. Just outside of our hotel is the Stephen Avenue Walk, filled with restaurants and bars, shopping and entertainment. It’s a great spot winding up the end of a beautiful vacation. (B, L)

Day 6 – Monday, September 2     Calgary – Home City

You will return home today with memories of the most beautiful scenery on earth.

Our hotels:
Day 1         Rimrock Resort Hotel, Banff
Day 2 – 5    Bugaboos Lodge
Day 6         Hyatt Hotel, Calgary

Please Note:  Alternate hotels may be utilized.