Tour Description

Explore Canada’s Rocky Mountains on a thrilling 15-day adventure. Walk the streets of Vancouver, hike the trails of Jasper and Banff to Maligne Lake and Lake Louise, canoe along Clearwater Lake in Wells Gray Provincial Park and soak up the superb alpine scenery. Spot native moose and bears and unleash your inner daredevil with a range of potential escapades – mountain biking or river rafting, anyone? With a mixture of included activities and optional extras, you get to decide just how active or relaxed you want this adventure to be. Jump in feet first and immerse yourself in the beauty of Canada in this outdoor experience.

Priced From:

$ 5040.00pp ^*

Valid From: 01JAN2025

Valid To: 31DEC2025

Start Location: Vancouver

End Location: Vancouver

Countries: Canada,

Tour Advisors

Tiffany McCrea-Lennon

Managing Director

Chris McKinnel

Travel Specialist

Gaylyn Murdoch

Administration Manager

Russell Mein

Travel Specialist

Holly Skene

Travel Co-ordinator

Kim Thomas

Broker

Highlights

Get wild in Jasper National Park, where it’s possible to spot moose, elk, deer, bears and coyotes among the sea of evergreen pine and spruce trees.

Take an included canoeing adventure and camp overnight on the remote shore of Clearwater Lake, where you can fall asleep under a blanket of stars.

See the Athabasca Glacier up close and personal during a walk to the toe of the glacier, an experience that will feel other-worldly.

Enjoy plenty of free time to explore Canada’s premier outdoor adventure hub, Whistler, at your own pace. Hike rugged trails or munch on ‘beaver tails’ – the choice is yours.

See the Rockies’ vast array of striking lakes, mountains and glaciers – no matter what time of year you visit – with a wilderness-loving local as your guide.

Itinerary

O Canada! Home of ice hockey and maple syrup, and source of your soon-to-be fondest travel memories. It all starts in Vancouver. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 8 am tomorrow morning where you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travellers. If you arrive early in Vancouver, why not take a walk around the Victorian buildings in the historic Gastown neighbourhood, or maybe wander through the behemoth urban forest that is Stanley Park.

At 8 am sharp, meet your fellow travellers and leader in the hotel lobby for a welcome meeting. Then, hit the road for the outdoorsy hub that is Whistler. Drive along the Sea to Sky Highway, widely considered one of the most scenic routes in the world, with a stop at Squamish along the way. Once you arrive in Whistler, join your leader for an orientation walk around the pedestrian-only town. Tomorrow’s a free day, so this could be a good chance to get a sense of what’s on offer. Have a chat to your leader about how to go about booking and taking part in hiking, mountain biking, zip-lining, kayaking and more. Then, settle into the campground for the night.

Stunning Whistler is ready to be explored, up the mountain or back down in the village. Perhaps buy yourself a ticket to ride the PEAK 2 PEAK gondola to enjoy unparalleled views of towering volcanic peaks and surrounding forest on the world’s longest and highest lift. Once at the top, check out the nearby scenic walking trails, mountaintop restaurants and indoor interpretive displays. Otherwise, you could hire a bike and ride along the Valley Trail to Lost Lake, or go for an easy hike along the Lost Lake Nature Trail. If you're after something a little more cultured, perhaps hit the Audain Art Museum to see a selection of First Nations and British Columbian artwork.

Make sure you’ve got a book, a podcast or some sparkling conversation ready as you settle in for a long drive to Wells Gray Provincial Park. You’ll arrive in time to set up camp for the evening on a rustic cowboy ranch. Relax with dinner by the campfire. Complete the classic North American campsite by crafting s’mores (marshmallow, chocolate and graham crackers) and sharing stories over the crackle of the flames.

This morning you’ll travel deeper into Wells Gray Provincial Park, disembarking at Clearwater Lake. Pack your camping equipment into a canoe, then cruise into the water. On a sunny day the name of the lake is particularly apt, and if you work up a thirst while paddling you can drink the pristine water around you, no filter necessary. After some instruction from the canoeing guides, paddle to a secluded beach campsite. Set up camp for the night, then you can choose to head on a leader-led hike to Eagle’s View. Later, cook dinner and finish the day with some stargazing around the campfire.

For your second day in the backcountry, the agenda is up to the group! You can take on some more of the trails the park has to offer, do some more paddling around Clearwater Laker, swim – or all three. Your leader will be on hand to provide you with any recommendations you need. Return to your campsite in the evening and enjoy another meal under the stars.

Wake up lakeside and pack up your gear to hit the water again. Back at the starting point, help unload and store the canoes and then hit the road bound for Jasper National Park. It’s a long drive, but you’ll break it up with a short hike to Helmcken and Spahats waterfalls. There’ll also be a stop in at Mt Robson Provincial Park, giving you a chance to stretch your legs on a short walk through the picturesque wildflower meadows. Arrive in Jasper in the early evening, and settle into your campsite.

Today you’ll make a visit to of Maligne Lake. Make sure you’ve got a charged phone or camera ready to capture shots of the jagged mountains and bright green pine forests that surround these glacial waters. Begin with a visit to Maligne Canyon, a slot canyon full of waterfalls and bridges for great views, then choose whether you’d like to pay for an optional cruise around the lake, including a visit to Spirit Island. This tiny ‘tied’ island is one of the most photographed spots in the Canadian Rockies for a reason! If the lake cruise isn’t your thing, you might like to spend your time seeing the area while hiking either the Mary Schaeffer or the Moose Lake trails. There’s also the option hike or bike around Beauvert Lake, or a ride on the Jasper SkyTram is highly recommended.

Take a scenic morning drive through mountain scenery on the famous Icefields Parkway, which connects Jasper and Banff National Parks. There will be numerous opportunities to stop at viewpoints and waterfalls along the way. This includes visits to the ice fields of Athabasca Glacier, where you can walk to the toe of the glacier with your leader or explore on an optional hike with a local guide (at own expense). Then, continue to your campground in Banff where you'll be spending the next three nights.

Today you'll begin exploring the many possibilities that Banff National Park provides. There’ll be an optional hike on the Plain of Six Glaciers trail around Lake Louise, which can also be extended to visit the Lake Agnes teahouse or the aptly named Big Beehive. There are plenty of other trails of different lengths to choose from, or you might like to take a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain, a dip in the natural hot springs or exploring the hoodoos and falls of Bow Valley by foot. As always, your leader is there to help, so pick their brain for advice on which (if any) you wish to participate in.

Enjoy a free day to explore Banff National Park. You could head out on a steeper walk to the Fairview Lookout for some incredible views from above Lake Louise. There are opportunities for canoeing and mountain biking, as well as checking out the town of Banff itself. After exploring the area, why not make your way back to the Lake Louise Fairmont Hotel? Sitting right on the shores of the lake, it serves as the perfect spot to take in the scenery with some poutine or a cocktail in hand.

Today drive to a place so beautiful its name comes from a Cree word that means awe and wonder – Yoho National Park. There nearby town of Golden will serve as your base for the next two nights, giving you ample time to explore the terrain and take part in the many activities the park provides. Be sure to ask your leader for a recommendation that matches your fitness level!

There are a couple of ways to continuing explore Yoho National Park today. If you’d like to break in your boots (and don’t mind heights), there’ll be an optional walk to the Golden Skybridge, which’ll provide some incredible views of the Rockies from 426 feet in the air. Another option (not for the faint of heart) is to battle the wild waters of the aptly-named Kicking Horse River on a guided rafting tour. Please note, this is an optional activity booked through an outside company that will incur an extra cost. If you’d like to take things a little easier, perhaps book a canoeing activity on the calm waters of Emerald Lake. Floored by the scenery? You could always lie back on the riverbank and watch the world float by.

This morning, travel through the high mountain clearing of Rogers Pass to reach Glacier National Park. Stop at Rogers Pass Discovery Centre for a look around and (depending on time and conditions) take a short hike through an old-growth area of cedar and hemlock. As one of the world's most active avalanche areas, most of the rugged, mountainous area of Glacier National Park is inaccessible for day hikes. Pause for lunch at Mount Revelstoke National Park which contains part of the world's only temperate inland rainforest, then set up camp near Salmon Arm, BC.

Make the journey back to Vancouver. The arrival time depends on a variety of factors such as weather, but you should expect to be back in the city before 3 pm. There are no activities scheduled upon arrival in Vancouver. If you are flying out on this day please don't book a flight before 8 pm, as this will give you enough time to catch a shuttle from the hotel to the airport and be there two hours before departure. Vancouver is the largest city in western Canada and well worth some extra time to explore the city’s delights. Should you choose to stay longer in Vancouver we'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Dates & prices

Dates

Prices

Availability

Departure Date :

24MAY2025

Return Date :

07JUN2025

5240NZD

available

Departure Date :

31MAY2025

Return Date :

14JUN2025

5040NZD

available

Departure Date :

08JUN2025

Return Date :

22JUN2025

5345NZD

available

Departure Date :

15JUN2025

Return Date :

29JUN2025

5445NZD

available

Departure Date :

25JUN2025

Return Date :

09JUL2025

5445NZD

available

Departure Date :

28JUN2025

Return Date :

12JUL2025

5445NZD

available

Departure Date :

02JUL2025

Return Date :

16JUL2025

5445NZD

available

Departure Date :

05JUL2025

Return Date :

19JUL2025

5445NZD

available

Departure Date :

12JUL2025

Return Date :

26JUL2025

5660NZD

available

Departure Date :

13JUL2025

Return Date :

27JUL2025

5445NZD

available

Trip Notes

Last modified (date)

20 Aug 2024

Trip title

Canadian Rockies

Trip code

SSOR

Validity

Validity: 01 Jan 2025 to 31 Dec 2025

Introduction

Style

Basix

Themes

Explorer

Transport

Private Vehicle

Physical Rating

Physical preparation

Many of the North American national parks that we visit have hiking opportunities where walks up to 4 hours can be an option for you. There are often easier options too.

Joining point

Inn At The Quay

900 Quayside Dr, New Westminster, BC V3M 6G1, Canada

Vancouver

CANADA

Joining point description

Built on pillars elevated over the Fraser River in New Westminster, our starting point hotel has all guestroom balconies situated over the water. All rooms have a mini fridge, Starbucks Coffee & Mighty Leaf Tea and free Wi-Fi. There is an onsite seafood restaurant with many other restaurants a short walk away.

Joining point instructions

Taxis are available at taxi stands located on Level 2 of the Domestic and International Arrivals Area at YVR. Travel time to the hotel is about 40 minutes, depending on the time of day, and will cost around $40CAD including tip. Public transportation is available, but schedules will vary, so it is recommended to check the SkyTrain and bus schedule closer to your departure. https://www.translink.ca/trip-planner

Alternate Joining point

For trips departing on the following dates, use this joining point.

24 May 2025 (SSOR250524), 31 May 2025 (SSOR250531), 08 Jun 2025 (SSOR250608), 15 Jun 2025 (SSOR250615), 25 Jun 2025 (SSOR250625), 28 Jun 2025 (SSOR250628), 02 Jul 2025 (SSOR250702), 05 Jul 2025 (SSOR250705), 12 Jul 2025 (SSOR250712), 13 Jul 2025 (SSOR250713), 19 Jul 2025 (SSOR250719), 20 Jul 2025 (SSOR250720), 27 Jul 2025 (SSOR250727), 30 Jul 2025 (SSOR250730), 03 Aug 2025 (SSOR250803), 06 Aug 2025 (SSOR250806), 13 Aug 2025 (SSOR250813), 16 Aug 2025 (SSOR250816), 23 Aug 2025 (SSOR250823), 30 Aug 2025 (SSOR250830), 31 Aug 2025 (SSOR250831), 07 Sep 2025 (SSOR250907), 14 Sep 2025 (SSOR250914), 20 Sep 2025 (SSOR250920), 23 May 2026 (SSOR260523), 30 May 2026 (SSOR260530), 07 Jun 2026 (SSOR260607), 14 Jun 2026 (SSOR260614), 24 Jun 2026 (SSOR260624), 27 Jun 2026 (SSOR260627), 01 Jul 2026 (SSOR260701), 04 Jul 2026 (SSOR260704), 11 Jul 2026 (SSOR260711), 18 Jul 2026 (SSOR260718), 19 Jul 2026 (SSOR260719), 26 Jul 2026 (SSOR260726), 29 Jul 2026 (SSOR260729), 02 Aug 2026 (SSOR260802), 05 Aug 2026 (SSOR260805), 12 Aug 2026 (SSOR260812), 15 Aug 2026 (SSOR260815), 22 Aug 2026 (SSOR260822), 29 Aug 2026 (SSOR260829), 30 Aug 2026 (SSOR260830), 06 Sep 2026 (SSOR260906), 13 Sep 2026 (SSOR260913), 19 Sep 2026 (SSOR260919)

Inn At The Quay

900 Quayside Dr, New Westminster, BC V3M 6G1, Canada

Vancouver

CANADA

Alternate Joining point instructions

Finish point

Inn At The Quay

900 Quayside Dr, New Westminster, BC V3M 6G1, Canada

Vancouver

CANADA

Finish point description

Finish point instructions

Travel time to the airport is about 40 minutes, depending on the time of day, and will cost around $40CAD by taxi. Public transportation is available, but schedules will vary, so it is recommended to check the SkyTrain and bus schedule closer to your departure. https://www.translink.ca/trip-planner

Important information

1. There are no activities planned on Day 1 of the trip so you may arrive at any time. A welcome meeting will be held at 8am on Day 2 in Vancouver. This trip ends on arrival into Vancouver on Day 15 in the afternoon. The arrival time depends on each group, but we generally aim for a 3pm arrival. If you decide to fly out this day, please don't book a flight before 8pm which will give you enough time to catch a shuttle from the hotel to the airport and be there 2 hours before departure. 2. A Single Supplement to have your own room and tent is available on this trip but please note that single tents are limited due to group camping accommodations. Therefore, all single supplements are on request only. 3. A sleeping bag is required for this trip. If you would like to rent a sleeping bag locally, the cost is $50 CAD, payable in cash to your guide on Day 1 of the trip. Please advise your booking agent prior to departure if you require a sleeping bag rental. 4. Please note that In Canada the legal drinking age is 18 in Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec, and 19 in the remaining provinces and territories. 5. Due to the remote nature of the backcountry canoe trip on days 5 & 6, anyone who tests positive for Covid while on trip will not be able to join the group in the backcountry. This policy is in place to protect you and our backcountry guides. If you test positive for Covid during the trip but wish to continue with the group, your leader will assist you with making alternative arrangements (at your expense) for accommodations during the canoe trip as well as transportation to meet the group on Day 7. Please review your travel insurance policy to ensure you have trip interruption coverage included. 6. We are not able to book airport shuttle service for North America trips. North America has convenient taxi and rideshare options from all airports, as well as public transport systems in major hub cities. Please check the joining and finishing point instructions listed in the Essential Trip Information.

Group leader

All group trips are accompanied by one of our group leader or local representative. The aim of the group leader or local representative is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced group leader or local representative however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your group leader or local representative is new to a particular region or training other group leader or local representative. Your group leader or local representative will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious, and social aspects. At Intrepid we aim to support local guides who have specialised knowledge of the regions we visit. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your group leader or local representative can recommend a local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip. NORTH AMERICAN LEADERS ON CAMPING TRIPS Our leaders in the US and Canada are also responsible for driving the van and navigating across the country. The allowable driving times for drivers is strictly controlled in North America. This ensures our drivers are well rested and are not over-tired from too many hours on the roads. Our North American camping trips are built around the co-operation and participation of all the group members under the supervision of the leader. Your leader will show the group how to set up and use the camp equipment, and form work groups to take turns cooking, cleaning and shopping. Everyone is expected participate and carry their share of the workload, making camp chores easier. If the whole group participates it will be quicker, easier and more fun. It's strictly forbidden for non-qualified rangers to present any information about some National Parks in North America, therefore we adopt a system (as requested by the park rangers) where our leader will encourage travellers to visit the information centres in the National Parks for details about the site.

Safety

Most national governments provide regularly updated foreign travel advice on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure and ensure that your travel insurance covers you for all destinations and activities on your trip. Please refer to our website's safety page for links to major travel advisories and updates on safety issues affecting our trips here: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/travel-alerts We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe-keeping of your passport, flight tickets, cash and other valuable items. Leave your jewellery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of our hotels have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. Your group leader or local representative will accompany you on all included activities, however, during your trip you'll have some free time to pursue your own interests or relax and take it easy. While your group leader or local representative will assist you with the available options in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your Intrepid itinerary, and Intrepid makes no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Please also note that your group leader or local representative has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it's deemed necessary due to safety concerns. Intrepid's operational safety policies can be viewed on our website at the link below. We recommend that you take a moment to read through this information before travelling, and would appreciate any feedback on how safety is being managed on our trips.

https://www.intrepidtravel.com/safety-guidelines

PETTY THEFT AND PERSONAL SAFETY While travelling there is always the risk of pick-pocketing and petty theft, particularly in the more touristy cities. We recommend that you exercise caution when walking alone at night and encourage you to walk together and only on main, well-lit thoroughfares. Be particularly vigilant on public transport. Simple measures like carrying your day pack on your front, not hanging your bag over the back of your chair or on the floor and wearing a money belt will reduce any chance that your valuables should go missing.

UNFENCED CAMPSITES On some trips you will at times stay in unfenced campsites within National Parks. While this is a fantastic experience, there are a few safety rules to follow. While staying in National Parks it's important that you listen to any advice given by your group leader or local representative and the park rangers regarding responsible and safe behaviour.

BEARS Whilst travelling throughout North America it's not uncommon to encounter bears within campsites and national parks. Your leader has been specifically trained for these situations and, if camping, will inform the group on how to 'bear proof' the camp in the evenings or when the site is unattended. There's absolutely no reason to be alarmed by this possibility as it is extremely rare for bears to approach humans.

Communications

WIFI Some North American campsites have WiFi access, as do most of our hotels, although you may occasionally need to pay extra for it. CHARGING BATTERIES North American electrical outlets operate at a lower voltage than much of the rest of the world. This means that your devices may take longer to charge than you are used to, or may say that they are not charging, even though they are. You may also notice that some hotels have powerboards or multiple appliances plugged into one socket. Because of the lower voltage, this is not the safety issue that it may be in other parts of the world. Some campsites have access to power for recharging batteries, but it may not be in an area that's safe to leave your device unattended. You can also recharge batteries in the van, although obviously this will need to be shared between everyone. You will need to bring a 12 volt/cigarette lighter adapter to plug your USB charger into.

Visas

PASSPORT You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details. We recommend carrying a copy of the photo page of your passport while travelling and leaving a copy at home with family or friends. VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS Many countries require a visa and obtaining the correct visa for your trip and any countries you may transit through is your responsibility. We recommend you check your visa requirements as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories, consular websites or on our page here: www.intrepidtravel.com/visa-entry-requirements

Why we love it

Get wild in Jasper National Park, where it’s possible to spot moose, elk, deer, bears and coyotes among the sea of evergreen pine and spruce trees.

Take an included canoeing adventure and camp overnight on the remote shore of Clearwater Lake, where you can fall asleep under a blanket of stars.

See the Athabasca Glacier up close and personal during a walk to the toe of the glacier, an experience that will feel other-worldly.

Enjoy plenty of free time to explore Canada’s premier outdoor adventure hub, Whistler, at your own pace. Hike rugged trails or munch on ‘beaver tails’ – the choice is yours.

See the Rockies’ vast array of striking lakes, mountains and glaciers – no matter what time of year you visit – with a wilderness-loving local as your guide.

Is this trip right for you

This trip covers a lot of ground so please be prepared for some long days of driving. You'll be travelling in a van with a group, so conditions may feel a little cramped. We think this is all part of the adventure of road travel, and friendships form fast in tight quarters. Snow may remain on the ground in higher elevations until the end of May. This may impact certain activities such as scenic gondolas, boat trips or mountain hikes, however crowds are much thinner during this time. Your leader will have a range of suggestions for alternative activities to do in your free time no matter the season. As we're travelling through the mountains, the weather can be unpredictable. We advise wearing layers in all seasons in case conditions change during the day. Even in the warmer months the temperature can be very low in the mountains. To ensure you to get the most out of the included and optional activities we recommend you are moderately fit. The hikes are a real highlight of this trip and give you access to some fantastic scenery. This is a participatory trip. That’s a fancy way of saying you’re not just along for the ride – you are part of a team! Be prepared to roll up your sleeves and help with camp activities like food prep and washing up. That teamwork also extends to our optional food kitty of approximately CAD 20 per day to cover the cost of meals. This kitty saves you worrying about where to get food or sales taxes and helps keep your costs down by bulk purchasing items together to cook. (Though there’s always the chance to use it for the occasional dinner out!) The kitty is optional and for your convenience, so if you've got specific dietary requirements you can opt out and purchase (and cook) your own food.

Health

GENERAL HEALTH All travellers need to be in good physical health in order to participate fully on this trip. For the safety and wellbeing of yourself and others, if you are unwell prior to travelling, please stay at home and contact us to make alternative arrangements. When selecting your trip please make sure you have read through the itinerary carefully and assess your ability to manage and enjoy our style of travel. Please note that if in the assessment of our group leader or local representative a traveller is unable to complete the itinerary without undue risk to themselves and/or the rest of the group, we reserve the right to exclude them from all or part of a trip without refund. You should consult your doctor for up-to-date medical travel information or for any necessary vaccinations before departure. We recommend that you carry a first aid kit as well as any personal medical requirements in their original packaging as they may not easily be obtained while travelling. If you are carrying medication, ensure you check your government's foreign travel advice for any local restrictions or requirements. PERSONAL MEDICATION Medical prescriptions written outside of the US and Canada aren't accepted at local pharmacies. We recommend you bring along your personal medications in the necessary quantities for your trip. DEHYDRATION & SUN PROTECTION The most likely medical incidents to occur on our trips are dehydration, over exposure to the sun and twisted ankles from walking on uneven ground. While hiking please ensure you drink enough water to remain hydrated as some hikes don't have refill stations for your water bottles. The sun (especially in desert areas in the West) can be harsh, particularly in the warmer months. Ensure you apply adequate sunscreen and wear a hat.

Food and dietary requirements

CAMPING On our camping trips in North America, we operate an optional kitty, where travellers are encouraged to contribute to a central fund which is used to buy groceries which then supply meals to the entire group. More details of the estimated costs and exclusions can be found in the Money Matters section. Buying and cooking the food, washing up, etc are shared amongst everyone on the trip. Teams of two people will carry out the camp duties on a rotating basis. On camping nights, we usually cook our evening meals together on our own stove, or barbecue food over the camp fire. We usually prepare salads, grill meats and cook pasta, rice and vegetables. For breakfast we usually buy milk, coffee, tea, cereals, bread, jam, butter etc. Travellers with special dietary requirements may prefer to opt out of the kitty, purchasing and preparing food that is suitable to their individual needs. Our leaders are experienced with adapting to dietary restrictions so please speak with them before opting out if you have concerns about suitability for your needs.

Money matters

SPENDING MONEY When it comes to spending money on the trip, every traveller is a little different. You know your spending habits better than we do, so please budget an appropriate amount for things like optional meals, drinks, shopping, optional activities, and laundry. Make sure you have read the itinerary and inclusions thoroughly so you know what is included in the trip price and what you may need to pay for while travelling. The most convenient way to access money is via ATMs, which are plentiful throughout North America. Check with your bank for information on their international fees. Most optional activities can be paid for with credit card. TIPPING Tipping is part of the culture in North America – while it may not be customary in your home country, it is an entrenched feature of many industries including the tourism industry, in North America. YOUR LEADER You may consider tipping your leader for outstanding service throughout your trip. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however, as a guideline US$10-20 per person per day can be used. Of course you are free to tip more or less as you see fit, depending on your perception of service quality and the length and involvement of your leader on your trip. Tipping is always appreciated. LOCAL GUIDES During your trip you may have a local expert guide for an included activity. As a guideline we suggest $5-$10 per person per local expert as a tip. TIPPING WHILE OUT AND ABOUT Restaurants: We suggest 18% to 22% of your bill. Bars: We suggest US$1 per drink. A charge that isn’t normally listed in North American menus or pricing are the state and federal taxes. Keep this in mind when your bill comes out slightly higher than the original price listed. CONTINGENCY FUNDS We try to plan for every eventuality, but there are still some things beyond our control. We reserve the right to change an itinerary after departure due to local circumstances or a Force Majeure Event. In such emergency circumstances, the additional cost of any necessary itinerary alterations will be covered by you. Please note we are not responsible for any incidental expenses that may be incurred as a result of the change of itineraries including but not limited to visas, vaccinations or non-refundable flights. Make sure you have access to an extra US$500 for emergencies (e.g. severe weather, natural disasters, civil unrest) or other events that result in unavoidable changes to the itinerary (e.g. transport strikes or cancellations, airport closures). Sometimes these things necessitate last-minute changes to enable our trips to continue to run, and as a result, there may be some extra costs involved. The recommended amount is listed in USD for the relatability of universal travellers, however, local currency may be needed once in the country to cover these costs. FOOD KITTY On our camping trips in North America, we operate an optional kitty, where travellers are encouraged to contribute to a central fund which is used to buy groceries which then supply meals to the entire group. In our experience all travellers generally participate. Our leaders are experienced with adapting to dietary restrictions so please speak with your leader at the welcome meeting if you have questions or concerns before participating in the food kitty. The kitty is administered by the group and is payable per week of the trip. Kitty prices as follows: USA (excluding Alaska) - USD$10 per day Alaska - USD$15 per day Canada - CAD$20 per day While camping, some breakfasts and dinners are paid from the food kitty, while lunch is not included. Sometimes we will go out for dinner and eat at restaurants at everybody's own expense. Your leader will participate in the food kitty as well. On hotel nights (if included) the food kitty does not operate, and everybody eats at their own expense. Personal beverages, lunches and snacks are not included in the food kitty. Our food kitty is based on the average cost from our past experience and from traveller feedback about what they are prepared to pay for shared meals. Not all personal eating preferences can be catered for, however we endeavour to provide tasty, basic meals. If there is any cash left over from the food kitty it will either be redistributed to the group or put towards paying for a group activity.

What to take

We will provide tents, basic foam rubber sleeping mats, camp kitchen essentials, camp chairs and campfire supplies. All luggage is carried in trailers or inside the vehicle so please don't bring more than one medium sized bag, backpack or suitcase (20kg/44lb maximum) per person. Your suitcase/rucksack may get some rough handling, so make sure it's a tough one. A small daypack with your water bottle and camera may be carried with you inside the vehicle. If traveling in shoulder season (April, May, September, October), please be prepared with extra cold weather clothing as temperatures can dip below freezing at night in some regions. Even during summer months it can get quite cold overnight, especially in desert and mountainous areas. Please check Cimate & Seasonal Information below, and we recommend you review the weather forecast for regions visited during your trip a few days before departure. ESSENTIAL:  Sleeping bag. Please bring one from home or you can purchase one before your trip starts - you may not have time once we're on the road. Sleeping bags can easily be bought in the US and Canada at big stores like Walmart and Target or at sports and camping supply stores like Mountain Warehouse in Canada or REI in the US. As we offer trips throughout the year and travel in diverse climate zones, we recommend you carefully consider the weather and choose an appropriate sleeping bag. Please bear in mind that nights can be very cold even in the warmer months. If you choose to purchase a sleeping bag during your trip, please consider donating it to a secondhand shop or homeless shelter before you return home.  Towel  Travel Pillow  Reusable water bottle. We recommend at least a 1.5 litre capacity. The sale of bottled water contributes to an enormous environmental problem around the world. Tap water in the US is safe to drink and there are many places to fill up along the way, so please save plastic by bringing your own water bottle.  Sun protection - hat, sunscreen, sunglasses  Quick-drying, breathable clothing you can layer. No matter the season, you should be prepared for changing temperatures and weather conditions. Make sure to have a warm outer layer even in summer months as well as a waterproof jacket.  Closed-in hiking shoes. We highly recommend that you take a pair of comfortable, closed-in/closed-toe hiking shoes. Closed-in shoes will help to protect your feet from cuts and scratches when walking through bush/grass-lands, and will also act as a barrier protection in rare cases against bites or stings from dangerous animals in this environment.  Personal travel documents which may include a passport, visa, driver's license, travel insurance, flight tickets and your Essential Trip Information. Photocopies of these documents stored separately from the originals will be handy. While not valid, a photocopy of your identification makes it much easier to obtain replacements if necessary. RECOMMENDED:  Cell phone, camera with spare batteries, charger, and power/plug adaptor (Types A & B are used in the USA. Voltage is 120V). Some of our vans have USB-2 style charging ports inside.  Insect repellent (insects are present intermittently all over the USA and Canada depending on recent rainfall.)  A cotton bandana or scarf. Can be wetted and worn around the neck to facilitate evaporative cooling in dry and hot conditions, used as sun or dust protection, or used to protect your neck and head from cold  Head torch/headlamp  A simple plastic bag/waterproof toiletry bag (that can hang on a nail on the back of a door) will be useful to keep your clothes dry inside basic camp shower structures.  Swimwear  Shower shoes – rubber sandals to be worn while in camp showers  Personal medical kit. Your guide will carry a large kit but we recommend you carry items such as mild pain killers, electrolytes, anti-diarrhoeal, antibacterial gel, wet wipes, bandaids/plasters etc. OPTIONAL:  Sleep sheet. If you are travelling during the hot season you may wish to also pack a sleep sheet so you will be comfortable no matter what the weather.  Inflatable sleeping pad. While we provide a basic foam rubber camping mat for each traveller, some travellers find they like the extra comfort of a double layer.  Lip balm and extra moisturizer if traveling to arid desert areas.  Ear plugs to guard against a snoring tent-mate  A good book, a journal or headphones to listen to music with. If you need some further tips for packing, you can always check out our ultimate packing list here:

https://www.intrepidtravel.com/packing-list

SLEEPING BAG RENTAL We can provide sleeping bag rentals on our Canada camping trips. If you would like to rent a sleeping bag locally, the cost is $50 CAD, payable in cash to your leader on Day 1 of the trip. Please advise your booking agent prior to departure if you require a sleeping bag rental so we can ensure its availability.

Climate and seasonal

WEATHER IN NORTH AMERICA Due to the size and topography of the US and Canada, there's a huge amount of variation in the climate. We recommend you consider both the season and the part of North America you intend to visit, so that you can best pack for your adventure. We recommend you check the weather in your destination 10 days prior to your arrival to help guide your packing choices. WEATHER IN WESTERN CANADA & THE ROCKIES Coastal Areas & Vancouver Island: Coastal regions, including Vancouver Island, Vancouver and Victoria, have a temperate maritime climate. This means mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. In winter, temperatures rarely drop below freezing. Winter high temperatures range from 7°C to 10°C (45°F to 50°F) and lows range from 1°C to 4°C (34°F to 39°F). Rain is common in winter, and there may be some snowfall, particularly in the surrounding mountains. Summers are warm and dry, with average high temperatures 20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F) and lows 12°C to 15°C (54°F to 59°F). Vancouver Island’s microclimates can vary significantly from one region to another. The west coast is known for its lush rainforests, while the eastern side is drier. The northern areas tend to be cooler than the southern regions. Interior Areas: Interior regions, including towns like Kelowna and Kamloops in British Columbia, have a semi-arid climate characterized by hot, dry summers and cold winters. Winter highs average 1°C to 4°C (34°F to 39°F) and lows average -5°C to -2°C (23°F to 28°F). In summer, highs average 27°C to 32°C (81°F to 90°F) and lows are 13°C to 16°C (55°F to 61°F). Mountainous Areas: The mountainous regions, including Whistler, Jasper and Banff, are known for their changeable weather, and rain or snow showers can occur even in summer. Be prepared for variable conditions and pack accordingly. Expect significant temperature variations between day and night. Be prepared for cooler temperatures in the evening, especially in the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Spring in the mountains is cool and marked by melting snow, which may impact activities such as boat tours and alpine hikes. Crowds are much less dense. Springtime average highs are 4°C to 11°C (39°F to 52°F) and lows are -6°C to 1°C (21°F to 34°F). Summers are the busiest season and experience daytime temperature highs from 18°C to 22°C (64°F to 72°F) and lows from 3°C to 7°C (37°F to 45°F). In Fall, temperatures begin to cool, especially in the evenings, and foliage changes color. Average highs are -6°C to 1°C (21°F to 34°F) and lows are -1°C to 4°C (30°F to 39°F). Winters are snowy and cold with average high temperatures -6°C to -1°C (21°F to 30°F) and lows -15°C to -11°C (5°F to 12°F). Wildfire season in Canada runs from late spring to early fall, peaking in summer. Most wildfires occur in remote areas, but smoke can travel and affect distant locations. Our team has contingency plans in place to address any impacts from wildfires on our travel plans. CANADIAN NATIONAL HOLIDAYS The following national holidays are observed in Canada, which can affect our itinerary as traffic can be extreme, and shops, restaurants and attractions can be closed: New Year's Day (01 January) Good Friday (date varies) Victoria Day (Monday before 25 May) Canada Day (01 July) Labour Day (first Monday in September) Thanksgiving Day (second Monday in October) Christmas Day (25 December)

A couple of rules

Intrepid won't tolerate any kind of violence, harassment (whether physical, verbal or sexual), or disrespect toward fellow travellers, our teams or local communities. To ensure the wellbeing of everyone on the trip, decisions made by your group leader are final. Romantic relationships between travellers and group leader or local representative are not permitted while on trip. Any behaviour that prevents your leader from continuing the itinerary as planned, breaks local laws or opposes any of these guidelines may result in Intrepid denying your booking or removing you from the trip. If something concerns you during your travels, please speak to your group leader immediately. Alternatively, you can contact us on the emergency contact number detailed in the Problems and Emergency Contact Information section of this Essential Trip Information. CANNABIS Cannabis is legal in Canada, however taking it across international borders, including into the United States is illegal. For more information: http://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/cj-jp/cannabis/ LEGAL DRINKING AGE In the US the legal drinking age is 21. In Canada the legal drinking age is 18 in Alberta, Manitoba and Quebec, and 19 in the remaining provinces and territories. Our leaders are not able to help underage customers buy alcohol.

Feedback

Can’t stop thinking about your adventure? Tell us all about it! We read each piece of feedback carefully and use it to make improvements for travellers like you. Share your experience with us at: http://www.intrepidtravel.com/feedback/

Emergency contact

While we always endeavour to provide the best possible holiday experience, due to the nature of travel and the areas we visit sometimes things can and do go wrong. Should any issue occur while you are on your trip, it is imperative that you discuss this with our local representative straight away so that they can do their best to rectify the problem and save any potential negative impact on the rest of your trip. We recognise that there may be times when your local partner may not be able to resolve a situation to your satisfaction - if this is the case, please ask to speak to their direct manager. You may also choose to provide details in your online feedback, which we ask you to complete within 30 days of the end of your trip. Please do be aware that it is very difficult for us to provide any practical help after the trip is completed, so informing us while still travelling will give us the opportunity to resolve the issue in real-time. For general contact details please use the following page: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us POLICE AND AMBULANCE In case of an emergency, local authorities can be contacted by calling 911 – this is the toll free phone number for the police, fire department and the ambulance in the USA and Canada. In case of doubt, call the operator on 0. For general enquiries or questions about your booking, please contact your agent or adventure specialist, or visit us at www.intrepidtravel.com/contact-us In case of a genuine crisis or emergency, you can reach our local operator on the number below. Intrepid local operator : Available for phone call on +1 514 948 4145

Responsible travel

Our Responsible Travel Policy outlines our commitment to preserving the environment, supporting local communities, protecting the vulnerable, and giving back to the places we travel. All our trip group leaders or local representatives, suppliers, and staff are trained on these principles and are core to us delivering sustainable, experience-rich travel. Explore the different parts of our Responsible Travel Policy by visiting: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/responsible-travel

The Intrepid Foundation

Our non-profit, The Intrepid Foundation, gives travellers more opportunities to make a positive impact in the places they visit. We have over 50 Intrepid Foundation partners across the globe addressing four key focus areas: protecting the environment, taking a stand for wildlife, addressing inequality and empowering communities. Intrepid matches all post-trip donations dollar for dollar and takes care of the admin fees – this doubles your impact and ensures every cent goes to our partners on the ground. Visit our website for more info: http://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/ Water First work with Indigenous communities in Canada to address critical water challenges through education and skills training programs. Donations support three of their programs – preparing young Indigenous adults for careers in their community's water treatment plants, training Indigenous community members to restore places of local significance, and engaging Indigenous school children with fun and unique learning resources. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation. To find out more or make a donation: https://www.theintrepidfoundation.org/t/water-first

Accommodation notes

NORTH AMERICA CAMPING The campsites that we use are selected for either their scenic beauty, their convenient location to places of interest and/or the facilities available. We aim to offer you a selection of different types of campsites. If you've never camped before - no problem! We provide a complete set of camping and cooking equipment. This includes roomy easy-to-pitch tents, which are shared by only two people and are equipped with thin foam rubber sleping mats and vinyl floors. Your leader will show you how to pitch a tent on the first day. On many trips we also spend a few nights in reasonably priced hotels/motels/hostels (as per the itinerary). Remember that sleeping bags and a pillow are not provided. Check out the Packing section for more information. You'll find the necessary facilities - toilets and in most cases showers, washing machines and dryers - at our campsites. The showers at some campsites may require a payment (usually no more than US$1-$3 for a quick shower). This is payable locally and is a contribution towards the cost of a limited water supply. Rarely, a campsite may only have cold water available for showers. In all campsites there are strict quiet hours when no loud noise is allowed, typically from 10pm to 7am. This means that all music, singing and noisy group gatherings must stop. We request that all our travellers respect these campsite rules. For trips where there are lodges/cabins used, couples travelling together may be separated when our rooming arrangements are based on single gender, however in some accommodations the group will be in mixed gender rooms. Our high-quality camping equipment (including tents) can be affected by bad weather conditions. This can result in some wet and cold conditions inside the tent. Your spirit of adventure and flexibility will help make your adventure trip an exciting and unforgettable experience. On nights where the group is camping, and weather conditions are extreme (such as snow or heavy rain), there may be an opportunity for the group (if everyone agrees) to stay at an alternative location such as a nearby hostel or hotel. When this is the case the upgrade is at your own expense.

Transport notes

AIRPORT TRANSFERS IN THE USA & CANADA We recommend taxis and rideshare services like Lyft and Uber when traveling to and from hotels in the USA and Canada. These services are widely available across North America, offering convenient and accessible transportation options. Private transfers in North America incur high costs and present an increased risk of missed connections due to their fixed schedules. In contrast, taxis and rideshares offer both cost-effectiveness and flexibility, ensuring a smoother journey. With transparent pricing, GPS tracking, and on-demand availability, we believe that taxis and rideshare apps not only offer a reliable alternative to private transfers but also provide a secure, trustworthy, and budget-friendly transportation option for our customers. NORTH AMERICA VEHICLES Our large fleet of 15-passenger vans are fully equipped with air-conditioning system, V8 engines and any camping or cooking equipment needed for your trip. Most have cloth-upholstered seats and carpeted interior with radio or CD players. Your luggage is typically transported in a trailer which is towed behind the van. The vans are regularly serviced by a well-established network of maintenance and service facilities throughout the continent. However, unforeseen maintenance problems can still occur while on the road and we appreciate the patience of our travellers as we make necessary repairs as quickly as possible. While your group will have a van for all included activities on the trip, the services of the van and leader may not be available for your use during free time, or after you have arrived for the day. If you need a special trip into town you may need to arrange transport or a taxi.

Travel insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur. We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects. For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been sighted by your group leader or local representative. If you have credit card insurance your group leader or local representative will require details of the participating insurer/underwriter, the level of coverage, policy number, and emergency contact number rather than the bank's name and your credit card details. Please contact your bank for these details prior to arriving in-country. For travellers who reside within the European Union, Switzerland or USA the requirement to purchase travel insurance cannot be compulsory. However the purchase of travel insurance is still highly recommended, and travellers from these regions who decline travel insurance when travelling outside of their home region must sign a Travel Insurance Waiver Form at the Group Meeting, recognizing personal responsibility for emergency medical and repatriation costs should they arise. For assistance with travel insurance or other services, please visit the link below: https://www.intrepidtravel.com/booking-resources/our-services

Your fellow travellers

As you travel on a group trip you will be exposed to all the pleasures and maybe some of the frustrations of travelling in a group. Your fellow travellers will probably come from all corners of the world and likely a range of age groups too. We ask you to be understanding of the various needs and preferences of your group - patience with your fellow travellers is sometimes required for the benefit of everyone's travel experience. Remember too that you have responsibilities to the group. If you are requested to be at a place at a certain time, ensure that you don't keep the rest of the group waiting. We have found time and time again that the very best trips we operate are those where the dynamics within the group work well - this takes just a little effort on your part. Due to privacy reasons, we are unable to provide you with contact details and any personal information about your fellow travellers booked on your trip prior to departure. SOLO TRAVELLERS On our trips, rooming is organised on a twin-share basis. We pair up solo travellers with another traveller of the same gender, as per the gender marker on each of their passports. We also offer an optional single supplement on most trips for travellers who prefer to have their own room. This only applies to accommodation during the tour. Pre-trip and post-trip accommodation booked through us will always be on a single-room basis. On a small selection of trips some accommodation will be open-gender and multishare, such as a felucca in Egypt or an overnight train in Vietnam. Please review the Accommodation section of the Essential Trip Information for details about your trip. LGBTQIA+ TRAVELLERS We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment for everyone. If your gender identity differs from what is indicated on your passport, please contact us so that we can discuss rooming options with you.

Itinerary disclaimer

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Accommodation

Camping (with basic facilities) (2 nights),Camping (with facilities) (11 nights),Hotel (1 night)

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