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National Park Adventures in the US & Canadian Rockies

Fifty miles of superlative scenery on Going-to-the-Sun Road. Sixty-two species of mammals, from pygmy shrews to majestic mountain goats and grizzly bears. More than 260 species of birds, 780 miles of trails and 10,000 years of natural history. And some spectacular national park lodges including the historic Prince of Wales Hotel in Waterton Lakes, Canada! You've got six days on our Glacier National Park hiking tour. It all adds up to one incredible story to tell.

Venture through stunning national parks and two countries on one phenomenally exciting trip—don't forget your passport!

Embark on unforgettable hikes through verdant scenery flanked by towering mountain peaks and snowfields

Travel the Going-to-the-Sun Road as it winds up and over the Continental Divide, showcasing incredible scenery and engineering

Encounter wildlife at every turn, including bighorn sheep, mule deer and possibly a grizzly or black bear

DAY 1

Description

Things might look a little different here... this is Big Sky Country!

• Hike the Trail of the Cedars through a dense forest to turquoise Avalanche Lake

• Back at the lodge, take a dip in Glacier National Park's Lake McDonald... if you dare!

• Take in the immensity of the Montana night sky from our rustic Swiss-style retreat.

Days 2-3

Description

Behold stunning Going-to-the-Sun Road, "the most beautiful 50 miles in the world"

• Marvelous geologic features, including Haystack Butte, embellish the landscape as you hike on the Highline Trail

• Take in gorgeous panoramic views from Logan Pass and the Continental Divide on our way to Canada

• Stay at the grand Prince of Wales Hotel in Waterton Lakes National Park, with its soaring roofs, gables, balconies, and a timber-framed interior... it's no surprise that it's the most photographed hotel in North America

• Options abound, including exploring trails on foot, kayaking, shopping in Waterton Townsite, or enjoying a cozy afternoon tea at our hotel.

DAYS 4-6

Description

Follow the Carthew-Alderson Trail, considered one of the best hikes in Alberta

• Amble through numerous botanical life zones and past Forum Peak to the west and Mount Custer to the south

• Return to Glacier National Park for a hike in the striking Many Glacier Valley

• Walk to a lake cold enough to harbor icebergs well into the warmer months

• Spot bighorn sheep, mule deer and maybe even a grizzly bear

• The quiet of morning is the perfect time to stroll around Swiftcurrent Lake before traveling along the eastern edge of the park to Whitefish, where our Glacier National Park hiking trip ends.

What's Included

• All breakfasts, 6 lunches, 4 dinners

• Expertise and services of our experienced Trip Leaders

• Snacks and beverages between meals

• Additional guides and experts from the region on many trips

• Van shuttles to support a variety of route options

• Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information

• Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner

• All gratuities at hotels and restaurants

• Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner

• On biking and multi-adventure trips, use of fully equipped Backroads titanium bike plus helmet and accessories

• Trailercycles, carriers, and kid-sized helmets for Family Trips

• Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing and canoeing as described

• Park and other entry fees

• Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner

• Select coach transfers