Canadian Rockies Family Multisport
Bike, Walk and Raft in Banff and Jasper National Parks
We’ve found the perfect way for families to experience the natural wonders of two of the Canadian Rockies’ most famous destinations: Banff and Jasper national parks. By bike and on foot, you'll explore in the company of Trip Leaders who are accredited interpretive guides and know the region intimately. Spin past saw-edged mountains and glaciers inching their way down the faces of mighty peaks. Hike to lakes in crayon-box hues of the deepest blue and emerald green. Delight in abundant wildlife sightings - moose, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats - and have an unforgettable family adventure in this amazing wilderness.
Trip Planning Links
- Natural and historic treasures discovered by foot and bike
- Walking on massive Athabasca Glacier with informative mountain guides
- Relaxing around crackling campfires and sleeping under star-filled skies
- Floating Class II rapids of the Athabasca River
- Kids rock climbing with accredited instructors
The Day-to-Day Itinerary
Days 1-3 Lake Louise
Meet in Banff 
Ride a family-friendly route along the Icefields Parkway in the shadow of the Continental Divide The beautiful Bow River and towering peaks flank the road leading to our campground for the evening Along the way keep your eye on the forest for elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats and black bears Families hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse for a scrumptious homemade lunch Adults continue hiking while the younger set returns to camp for fun kids activities From Lake Louise, bike across the Continental Divide to the shimmering waters of Waterfowl Lakes and our campground in Banff National Park.
Day 4 Banff National Park
In the heart of the Columbia Icefield, join certified mountain guides on an adventurous ice walk across the Athabasca Glacier For a unique view of the wilderness near Jasper, enjoy a fun-filled Class II raft trip down the Athabasca River Our home for the next two nights is the peaceful Wapiti Campground, named for the elk, or wapiti, that roam the area.
Days 5-6 Jasper National Park
Adults pedal from stunning Maligne Lake along the Maligne River, stopping at Maligne Canyon for a hike Meanwhile, kids are introduced to the exciting sport of rock climbing with accredited instructors Walk in the Valley of the Five Lakes with views of Mount Edith Cavell Shuttle back to Banff.
- Premiere Inns: These lodgings possess both elegance and authentic regional flair.
- Casual Inns: These lodgings are comfortable and appropriate to the area with such characteristics as authenticity, scenic settings and proximity to our activities.
- Deluxe Family Camping: We set up the tents (and take them down), handle every camp chore and perform culinary magic.
Other Trips You Might Like:
Family Premiere Inns Family Casual Inns
Alaska Multisport Yellowstone Multisport Glacier MultisportOther National Park Trips
Look at what other guests are saying about this trip!
The multisport trip to the Canadian Rockies was outstanding. It was everything that I had hoped for and more. The views were spectacular, and I really enjoyed the itinerary. I thought the amount of activity was perfect. Our days were filled and extremely enjoyable. Once again, your leaders are exceptional.- Cedar Knolls, NJ More about this Trip All Guest Reviews
For 30 years, Backroads has been perfecting the art of active travel. We are the tour experts. For multisport tours in , trust our in-depth connections. To see all our multisport tours click here. For our selection of award-winning biking tours click here. For our selection of award-winning walking and hiking tours click here.
Canadian Rockies Family Multisport
PRISTINE WILDLIFE SETTINGS: Deluxe Camping
Lake Louise Campground
Lake Louise (2 nights) This picture-perfect campsite is situated along the Bow River beneath the gaze of Mount Temple.
Waterfowl Lakes Campground
Banff National Park (1 night) Set on the banks of the stunning Waterfowl Lakes, this campsite is a great spot for viewing wildlife and the scenic grandeur of the Canadian Rockies.
Wapiti Campground
Jasper National Park (2 nights) Our home base is just a short ride from the charming town of Jasper.
Canadian Rockies Family Multisport
Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain
Routes For All Abilities
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.
| Activity Level | Average Time | Biking Average | Walking Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insider Trips | Explore at a leisurely pace—on village walks, market strolls, art history excursions, hands-on cooking classes and more. | ||
| 1 | 2-3 hours | 10-20 miles | 2-5 miles |
| 2 | 2-4 hours | 21-30 miles | 5-7 miles |
| 3 | 3-5 hours | 31-40 miles | 7-9 miles |
| 4 | 4-6 hours | 41-55 miles | 9-11 miles |
| 5 | 5-7+ hours | 56-75+ miles | 11-13+ miles |
Day 1
- Levels 1 to 3 4 Route Options Available
- Biking 7, 20, 37 miles
- 600 - 1900 feet elevation gain
- Hiking 1.4 miles
- 150 feet elevation gain
Day 2
- Levels 2 to 3 2 Route Options Available
- Hiking 6.2, 8 miles
- 1200 - 1800 feet elevation gain
Day 3
- Levels 1 to 3 2 Route Options Available
- Biking 14, 29, 37 miles
- 700 - 2000 feet elevation gain
Day 4
- Glacier Walk 2 hours
- River Rafting 2 hours
Day 5
- Levels 1 to 3 2 Route Options Available
- Biking (Adults) 33 miles
- 2000 feet elevation gain
- Hiking (Adults) 1.6 miles
- 200 feet elevation gain
- Rock Climbing (Kids) 5 hours
Day 6
- Level 1 1 Route Option Available
- Hiking 3.4 miles
- 300 feet elevation gain