5-Day Banff, Icefields Parkway and Dinosaur Valley Discovery Tour from Calgary with Airport Transfer Tour Code: 993-20182 westar_travel CWR05

Heading west, you will pass by the historic Spiral Tunnel, an engineering marvel built during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, symbolizing the wisdom and perseverance of early railway workers. Continue on to the tranquil Emerald Lake, a stunning alpine gem that remains enchanting even in winter. Then visit the Natural Bridge, where the Kicking Horse River has carved its way through solid rock to form a naturally sculpted arch. Next, arrive at the magical Lake Louise, framed by the majestic Victoria Glacier. During January to April (subject to official opening dates), the world-renowned Ice Magic Festival transforms the area into a fairytale world of ice and snow sculptures created by artists from around the globe. Overlooking the lake, the elegant Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise adds timeless charm to the scenery. After lunch, continue to Marble Canyon for a light hike. The trail crosses multiple wooden bridges in a zig-zag pattern over a narrow creek, surrounded by towering limestone walls. In winter, frozen waterfalls cascade dramatically into the canyon, creating an unforgettable landscape.

Your first stop is Johnston Canyon, where you will hike along the scenic trail to the Upper Falls. (Trail information: approx. 5 km round trip, 120 m elevation gain. Ice cleats are provided during winter months.) Experience dramatic canyon walls and sparkling frozen waterfalls. Next, enjoy lunch time in Banff Town (optional at own expense). Afterward, continue to Bow Falls and Surprise Corner, two iconic viewpoints offering postcard-perfect winter scenery of the Rockies. The highlight of the day is the Banff Gondola, ascending Sulphur Mountain for a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the snow-covered peaks and Banff town below. (During the gondola's annual maintenance period, November 4–15, this stop will be replaced by the Cave and Basin National Historic Site - free tickets)

In the morning, travel eastward from Calgary across the vast prairies before reaching Drumheller, where rolling badlands come into view. Weathered canyons and striking red-and-white rock layers showcase the artistry of nature. Next, visit the world-renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum, home to one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils, where prehistoric giants come alive before your eyes. On the way, see the World's Largest Dinosaur Model (drive-by). Continue to the Hoodoos Trail, where unique mushroom-shaped stone pillars, sculpted by wind and erosion, stand tall in the valley. Walking among these formations, you can't help but marvel at the smallness of humankind. On the return journey, enjoy shopping at CrossIron Mills Outlet, Alberta's largest integrated shopping mall. Finally, drive back to Calgary.