Canadian Rockies Trek for Northern Ireland 2021

27 August – 4 September 2021

This magnificent trek takes place in some of the most spectacular national parks in the Canadian Rockies, including Banff and Yoho as well as the vibrant city of Calgary. Join us for a challenge you’ll never forget and help us care for more people living with a terminal illness.

Itinerary

Day 1

UK – Calgary

We arrive in Calgary mid-afternoon and have a 1.5 hour drive to our hostel in Banff. In the evening we have a welcome meal, a briefing on the challenge ahead and meet the guides who will be with us for the next few days, before relaxing into our new surroundings.

Day 2

Banff area hiking

5-7 hours trekking; 100m-550m elevation

This morning we have an introductory trek in the Banff area along the shores of Lake Minnewanka  and to the Mt. Aylmer lookout. The walk is scenic and offers lots of views of the lake and the  mountains. The strongest hikers will be able to reach the lookout after a 12km walk and 530m of elevation gain. Those not wanting the strenuous climb will be able to stop for a picnic lunch on the shores of the lake after walking 8km with very little elevation gain. The return is back along the same trail. After our hike, we set up camp at our Banff campground (two nights).

Day 3

Ha Ling Peak in Canmore

5-6 hours trekking; 800m elevation

Today is our day to challenge ourselves with a hike to the summit of Ha Ling Peak. From the town of Canmore, the peak has a very imposing and vertical cliff face that is popular with mountaineers. But from the backside, there is a very well built trail that will help us gain the summit in just a few hours. The views from the peak are incredible! After our hike we may have some free time to wander the downtown district of Canmore, one of Canada’s prettiest towns.

Day 4

Stanley Glacier

4-6 hours trekking; 365,-700m elevation

We will transfer today from Banff to Lake Louise. On our drive we will detour into Kootenay National Park in British Columbia for a hike on the trail nicknamed as the trail of ‘fire and ice’ The trail begins with an ascent through a forest subjected to forest fire 10 years earlier and finishes with outstanding views below the Stanley Glacier hanging down and over a steep mountain wall. Options for a shorter and a longer hike today exist. Afterwards we will continue to the village of Lake Louise where we will set up camp for the next 3 nights.

Day 5

Lake Louise – Plain of Six Glacier and Highline Trail

5-6 hours trekking; 600m elevation

Our hiking begins today at the famed Chateau Lake Louise on the shores of Lake Louise. From here, we will walk the length of the lake and then upwards towards imposing Mt. Victoria and the Victoria Glacier. The mountain walls, glaciers and narrow valley along the route creates imposing views. After reaching the teahouse at the Plain of Six Glaciers, we will turn back, but then hike the highline route towards Lake Agnes located high above Lake Louise. From here we can look down on the lake, and the Bow Valley before finishing our loop by hiking down the trail and back to the shores of the lake.

Day 6

Valley of Ten Peaks

6-7 hours trekking; 725m elevation

Our final day of hiking begins begins at the shore of Moraine Lake and climbs steadily through forest until it opens up into the beautiful Larch Valley, with its foliage of larches on all sides. Ahead of us is the imposing wall beneath Sentinel Pass and a faintly seen trail switchbacking its way to the top. From the pass we can look down into Paradise Valley, and the rock pinnacles known as the ‘sentinels’. After lunch, we return to Moraine Lake with the awe-inspiring views of the Ten Peaks in front of us the entire way.

Day 7

Banff to Calgary

We transfer to Calgary where we enjoy a free afternoon and prepare for a farewell dinner. Overnight hotel in Calgary.

Day 8

Transfer to airport

After a final opportunity for a little shopping we transfer to Calgary airport for our return flight home.

Day 9

Arrive UK

What’s included?

• Return flights
• Local transfers
• Accommodation
• Tour leader
• Medic
• All meals
• Marie Curie kit
• Marie Curie representative on the event

Minimum fundraising

£3,850 – we’ll help you with your fundraising every step of the way

Fundraising Deadlines

£3,080 due by 11th June 2021. Remaining amount due 4 weeks after event.

Registration fee

£299

Minimum age

You must be 18 years or older to register for this event

Fitness

To take on this challenge you’ll need to be fit and do some training.

https://www.mariecurie.org.uk/get-involved/charity-events/overseas-challenges/rockies-northern-ireland