CANADIAN ROCKIES 2013 Luxury Family 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS

Transcription

1 CANADIAN ROCKIES 2013 Luxury Family 6 DAYS / 5 NIGHTS I am delighted to welcome you to the Canadian Rockies, my home for the past 23 years. Like many local residents, I came here to work for a summer and ended up being so enchanted with the majestic, ever-changing beauty of the mountains that I never left. There is something here for everyone kids of all ages! This vacation features the best of what this Canadian landscape has to offer you and your family adventure, beauty and thrills. Get ready for a family vacation of a lifetime! Field british columbia Baker Creek alberta Banff C A N A D A ALBERTA saskat Kid s Highlights: Whitewater rafting at Horseshoe Canyon; evening campfire and s mores; gondola ride; canoeing on Moraine Lake; kids-only night with the guides. See pure unadulterated nature and marvel at the wildlife eagles, elk and sheep, and even the occasional grizzly peacefully dining on daisies at the forest s edge. Hike through the Valley of the Ten Peaks with award-winning local guides. Cycle along scenic roads that earned the Canadian Rockies 4th place in National Geographic s 50 Ultimate Road Trips. Take in the view of the turquoise serenity of both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, both even more beautiful than the photos! Looking forward to meeting you! Cheryl Hyde Canadian Rockies Trip Expert british columbia Banff Calgary U N I T E D Ê S T A T E S TREK TRAVEL CYCLING VACATIONS OF A LIFETIME 613 Williamson St., Ste. 207 Madison, WI USA trektravel.com sales@trektravel.com TABLE OF CONTENTS: Welcome & Map v Itinerary v Trip Accommodations v Arriving & Departing v Before & After Recommendations v What s Included v Essential Travel Guide v

2 ITINERARY DAY 1: Basic Option: Banff to Baker Creek Chalet Approximately 30 miles with 1,000 feet of climbing Short Option: Banff to Johnston Canyon Approximately 15 miles with 500 feet of climbing Long Option: Banff to Lake Louise to Baker Creek Approximately 43 miles with 2,400 feet of climbing Hiking Option: Johnston Canyon Lower or Upper Falls Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Fox Hotel and Suites (461 Banff Ave, Banff, Alberta, Canada) at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. Your family adventure begins with your first ride together on the scenic Vermillion Lakes bike path on your way to the Bow Valley Parkway. Upon arrival at the Johnston Canyon campground, you ll enjoy a gourmet picnic lunch that meets the desires of parents and children alike. After lunch grab your cameras for an exciting hike along the canyon s boardwalk path past sheer cliffs, rushing water and roaring waterfalls leading finally to the ink spots crystal clear spring-fed ponds in meadows beyond the canyon. After the hike, hop back on your bikes to wind through more untouched natural beauty on a colossal scale! You ll have many family photo ops like mighty Castle Mountain, the Canadian Pacific train (dating back to 1881), and wild moose and sheep grazing on the hillsides. Your ride will bring you to the Baker Creek Chalets where you ll have some time to settle in with the kids and explore the grounds before dinner. Dine after some entertaining introductions hosted by your guides as they detail the fun to come. Hotel Baker Creek Chalets DAY 2: Hike: Consolation Lake Canoe: Moraine Lake Basic Option: Moraine Lake to Lake Louise Return Approximately 18 miles with 1,100 feet of climbing Long Option: Bow Summit and Peyto Lake Option Approximately 73 miles with 3,900 feet of climbing Today take in the area s abundant natural beauty with your family. Start with a guided nature hike with local Master guides Nadine and Joel. Always a big hit with the kids, these experts will show you the untouched Valley of the Ten Peaks explaining the flora, fauna, and mythology of these rugged mountains. Your guides are eager to answer questions so don t be shy! The group splits in two with one exploring the wild in the morning and the other in canoes on the crystal waters of Moraine Lake. Then pedal or shuttle to the famous Lake Louise. If anyone wants more miles, ride the Columbia Ice Field Parkway to Bow Lake and Num Ti Jah Lodge. Surrounded by snowy peaks, lush forests and the brilliant blue water of Bow Lake, you and the kids will see ice fields and glaciers dating all the way back to the Ice Age and spectacular mountain views. End the day bonding together with a tasty dinner and roasting marshmallows over the campfire and reliving the day s exciting adventures. Hotel Baker Creek Chalets Personal Cycling Gear: On your trip Trek Travel provides a helmet, flat or caged pedals & a Bontrager saddle. Beyond what is provided on your trip, you are welcome to bring your own gear: a helmet, seat, pedals, shoes, etc. Just label and pack it in a separate, easily accessible bag. Remember also to bring spare cleats for your clipless pedals, as replacements during your trip are difficult to find.

3 ITINERARY DAY 3: Basic Option: Baker Creek to Lake Louise Ski Area Approximately 8 miles with 800 feet of climbing Short Option: Takakkaw Falls Loop Approximately 16 miles with 1,800 feet of climbing Long Option: Takakkaw Falls Loop to Emerald Lake Lodge Approximately 26 miles with 2,300 feet of climbing Hike: Emerald Lake Today starts with an exhilarating event shuttling to the Lake Louise Ski Area for an exciting gondola ride up the Grizzly Express. Soaring high above the ski slopes, now green and blanketed with wildflowers, you and the kids will have great views and may even spy a grizzly! At the top, explore the many trails with the kids and be sure to take advantage of the perfect scenic backdrop just begging for a family photo. A short shuttle follows the gondola ride down taking you into British Columbia and Yoho National Park. Named for the native Cree word for awe and wonder, it certainly lives up to its name. Hop on your bikes or in the shuttle for the ride up to thundering Takakkaw Falls, the 2nd highest waterfall in Canada. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the shadow of the falls before riding down to the Emerald Lake Lodge for the night. Rent canoes for one last adventure today and explore the waters of the lake. Dine together tonight before resting up for more fun tomorrow. Hotel Emerald Lake Lodge DAY 4: Basic Option: Lake Louise Village to Banff Approximately 40 miles with 2,000 feet of climbing Long Option: Continental Divide to Banff Approximately 47 miles with 2,500 feet of climbing Explore Banff: Shop in Banff Optional Gondola Ride Up Sulphur Mountain Rider Level: Rider Type: 2 Terrain hilly Average: Daily Distance: 25 miles Average: Daily Climbing 1,700 feet Today has loads of activities for kids of all ages. Start riding over the car-free Continental Divide where Divide Creek splits: one fork heads to the Pacific and one to the Atlantic. Or start down the road in Lake Louise Village exploring the many charming shops and galleries before starting your ride. A pit stop at Johnston s Canyon to see another roaring waterfall is a fun way to break up the easy ride (or shuttle) to Banff. Eddie s Burger joint is always a crowd pleaser and our #1 recommendation for lunch on your own in town. After, ride some more or stroll down Main Street in search of the perfect souvenir, a tasty chocolate bear claw or visit the enormous Victorian Banff Springs Hotel, said to be haunted by at least two ghosts. You can also take another gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain to more breathtaking views and hiking trails to explore. Tonight parents get a quiet dinner on their own as your guides whisk the kids away for more fun with a special kids-only dinner. Hotel Buffalo Mountain Lodge

4 ITINERARY DAY 5: Whitewater Rafting Basic Option: Banff to Lake Minnewanka Loop Approximately 15 miles with 1,800 feet of climbing Long Option: Banff to Lake Minnewanka to Canmore Return Approximately 45 miles with 2,400 feet of climbing Dive into today with a whitewater rafting adventure during an exhilarating ride down Class III rapids! Bounce and splash your way down the river and end with a lively swim surfing the rapids! After a pit stop at the hotel you ll bike or shuttle to Cascade Ponds where a traditional Canadian cookout lunch will be all set for you and the kids. This afternoon pedal past herds of bighorn sheep grazing lazily in the park to the brilliant blue shores of Lake Minnewanka, the largest body of water in Banff National Park. Head back to the hotel at the top of Tunnel Mountain, passing totem pole shaped hoodoos and lofty Mt. Rundle, or ride the bike path with the kids to neighboring Canmore. Discover its markets, explore the town s artisan shops or visit the Canmore Museum and learn about the area s rich mining history. Tonight you ll gather for one last dinner with your guides and newfound friends celebrating the great memories you ve made on your family vacation of a lifetime. Hotel Buffalo Mountain Lodge DAY 6: Farewell This morning enjoy one final family breakfast with the majestic Canadian Rockies as your backdrop. Throw the Frisbee around on the lawn or enjoy one last adventure on the short walk up Tunnel Mountain. Named after a blundered tunnel proposal in the late 1800s when the railroad was constructed in the area, the mountain has no tunnel but affords spectacular panoramic views of the town of Banff, the Bow River Valley and encircling mountain ranges. After snapping some last pictures of the pristine natural landscape you can return to the hotel to finish packing before checkout. You ll head home with a suitcase full of special family memories you ll be talking and laughing about for years to come! You ll say farewell to your guides at 10:00 AM at the Buffalo Mountain Lodge. The Banff Airporter has scheduled pick up times of 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM from Buffalo Mountain Lodge to the Calgary International Airport. Please see their online schedule and make your reservations in advance. Please be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled pick-up. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to any other Banff location for between $5-10. Thank Your Guides, By Tipping: Gratuities for your Trek Travel guides are not included in your trip price. Industry standard is 5-10% of the trip price which will be divided by your guide team. Please tip your guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service.

5 ACCOMMODATIONS & MEALS LODGING In every region we travel, we uncover the area s best, and most delightful accommodations. On our Canadian Rockies trip, you will stay in accommodations that are full of charm and fascinating history. These chaletstyle hotels feature rustic decor with modern, luxurious amenities. Rooms or cabins vary in size and offer great views, as well as wood-burning fireplaces. Baker Creek Chalets Baker Creek, Alberta, Canada Located in Banff National Park, along the shores of Baker Creek, the Baker Creek Chalets offer a truly authentic mountain experience. Nestled in the pine trees, you ll enjoy the mountain views, sounds of the rushing creek, and a warm fire burning in your cozy, rustic cabin or suite. Nature will be your entertainer, as there is little cell phone coverage and no television to disturb your serenity. Enjoy Chef Nigel s acclaimed cuisine! The locals boast that his tantalizing creations, using only local products, are the best in the valley. Box Emerald Lake Lodge Field, British Columbia, Canada A nod to the past characterizes accommodations at Emerald Lake Lodge. Dotting the property s 13-acre peninsula are 24 cabin-style buildings; each is designed to reflect the traditional architecture of the lodge. It s your own private sanctuary in the mountains! PO Box Buffalo Mountain Lodge Banff, Alberta, Canada Trip Changes: Our itineraries are an approximation of our trips. Trek Travel strives to offer each and every guest a vacation of a lifetime on every trip. At times routes, hotels, activities, etc. listed here may change at the discretion of the trip designer or guides to improve the trip experience. Located just above the Banff township near Tunnel Mountain, Buffalo Mountain Lodge is constructed with luxurious and spacious rooms, most with balconies, fireplaces, and mountain views. The hotel houses an excellent restaurant and one of the Canadian Rockies most comfortable outdoor hot tubs. P.O. Box DINING Trek Travel scopes out unique and delicious dining locations, and we usually leave at least one meal for you to explore on your own. If you have any special dietary preferences, be sure that you have informed your Trek Travel Trip Consultant before you leave for your trip. We will do our best to accommodate your dietary requests. On our Canadian Rockies trip, expect to enjoy wonderful, creative Canadian Rocky Mountainstyle cuisine. Menus feature wild game and fresh fish, particularly salmon, and world-famous Alberta beef. Most of our dinners are served at our hotel dining rooms. You ll enjoy gourmet picnic lunches prepared by your guides and breakfast is always served at the hotel.

6 ARRIVING & DEPARTING HOW TO GET THERE Flights We suggest that you arrive at least one day prior to the trip start, which will enable you to adjust to the time zone and minimize the risk of missing the trip start due to flight-related delays. We recommend that you fly into Calgary, Alberta, Canada. From the Calgary International Airport (YYC), you may take the Banff Airporter shuttle to the town of Banff and enjoy an evening in the mountains prior to your trip start the following morning. Trek Travel guests enjoy a 15% discount if they book with the Banff Airporter. To enjoy this added value, you ll receive a special booking code in your confirmation letter after you ve booked your vacation. If you prefer staying in Calgary the night before your trip, you can take a taxi from Calgary to Banff (130km) for approximately $215. Please reserve your taxi in advance ( ). MEETING TIME AND LOCATION Fox Hotel and Suites Banff, Alberta, Canada Your Trek Travel guides will meet you at the Fox Hotel and Suites (461 Banff Ave, Banff, Alberta, Canada) at 9:00 AM on the first day of the trip. From the Fox Hotel and Suites, we will transfer to our staging location in Banff. After a quick snack and a thorough bike fitting, we will begin our adventure. If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an a week before the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Baker Creek Chalets ( ), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. Your guides will then instruct you to either take a taxi to our staging area or Baker Creek Chalet. Enjoy our Travel Agent Services! For a nominal fee, our dedicated Travel Agent can reserve air travel, hotels, rental cars, train tickets and additional tours and sightseeing before or after your trip. Call Trek Travel at and choose option #2 to speak with our in house Travel Agent. DEPARTING TIME AND LOCATION Buffalo Mountain Lodge Banff, Alberta, Canada You will say farewell to your guides at 10:00 AM at the Buffalo Mountain Lodge. The Banff Airporter has scheduled pick up times of 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM from Buffalo Mountain Lodge to the Calgary International Airport. Please see their online schedule and make your reservations in advance. Please be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled pick-up. Alternatively, you can take a taxi to any other Banff location for between $5-10.

7 BEFORE & AFTER BANFF Enjoy one evening taking in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains prior to your trip start. Best to enjoy a night of relaxation, as tomorrow you have a full day ahead of you. We recommend the following accommodations for your pre-trip hotel: Fox Hotel and Suites 461 Banff Ave ~$230 The brand new Fox Hotel and Suites offers a unique accommodation style to the Banff area. This classic hotel features Rundle rock stonework and mountain spring hot pools inspired by Banff s original Cave & Basin site. Located a quick 5-minute walk from downtown Banff, the Fox Hotel & Suites offers great access to all the refinements Banff has to offer. Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel 405 Spray Ave ~$450 For more than a century, The Castle in the Rockies has provided the unique blend of luxurious comfort, individualized service, and timeless beauty for the most discerning traveler. Styled after a Scottish Baronial Castle, The Fairmont Banff Springs is located in the heart of Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its beauty is unparalleled. Banff Inn 501 Banff Ave ~$230 Banff Inn is a modern style inn located on Banff Ave. Just steps from the centre of the action, the Banff Inn provides a great location to base your adventures. The Inn also features wireless internet, whirlpool, steam room, and sauna. Last minute question? Your guides will be available 24 hours before the start of your trip. You ll receive their mobile numbers in an one week before the trip start date. In the event you don t receive this , please contact our sales team: sales@trektravel.com or

8 BEFORE & AFTER CALGARY Calgary is one of Canada s most vibrant cities and quite proud of its western heritage. Fine dining, shopping, museums, and a world-class zoo can all be found here. You can also ride the bobsled track at Canada Olympic Park, the site of the 1998 Winter Olympics. We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel: Calgary Marriott 110 9th Avenue, SE ~$120 Located in the center of downtown in part of the complex which includes the Glenbow Museum. With newly renovated, spacious rooms, this centrally located hotel is ideal for exploring Calgary. Delta Bow Valley Avenue SE ~$110 Also located in the heart of downtown Calgary, the Delta Bow Valley is an efficiently-run hotel and in an excellent location. Delta Calgary International Airport 2001 Airport Road N.E www. DeltaHotels.com ~$180 Located across from the Calgary International Airport, this hotel offers easy access on a day filled with travel. Relax in your room or enjoy some time in the pool before heading to bed. Thank To call Your the Guides, trip anything By Tipping: short of amazing is an Gratuities understatement. for your Trek Everything Travel guides was as are promised not included and in the your surprises trip price. that Industry were standard thrown in is 5-10% along of the the way trip put price it right which will over be divided the top. by your guide Jim team. Please tip your guides at your discretion, based on their level of professionalism, guest care and service.

9 WHAT S INCLUDED INCLUDED IN THE TRIP PRICE Dining & Lodging Unique accommodations during the Canadian Rockies trip Daily breakfast, 3 lunches, social hour on some evenings, 4 dinners, and all snacks and drinks for each day s ride Support Dedicated Trip Consultants to answer all of your questions and aid you in choosing a vacation that suits you sent to you one week prior to your trip with guide contact details, meet time & location and any final information The knowledge, support and camaraderie of experienced guides Daily route support, detailed route guide, highlighted map, van support All transportation and luggage transfers during the trip Gear The use of a Trek Domane 5.9 carbon road bike, or Trek Domane 5.9 Women s Specific Design carbon road bike (limited selection) (visit for more details) Complimentary Trek Travel merchandise Bike computer, a map case, and stocked seat pack for use during your trip Two Trek Travel water bottles for you to keep Choice of multiple stem lengths, seat posts and saddles for a custom fit The Best Bikes, Period: Bike vacations are more fun when bikes ride and fit well. With the best in the industry and our knowledgeable and well trained guides our bikes always fit and ride smoothly. Enjoy $300 off a select Trek bike after you travel with us. Activities Gratuities for all scheduled restaurants, hotels, local guides and transportation during your trip. Private Guided Hike through the Valley of the Ten Peaks Whitewater Rafting Canoeing on Moraine Lake NOT INCLUDED Airfare and transportation to and from the trip pick-up/drop-off locations Lodging before and after the trip Personal items purchased during the trip Optional activities not scheduled by Trek Travel On select trips some meals are not included. On these trips, Trek Travel invites you to explore the local cuisine at your leisure. Gratuities for your Trek Travel Guides may be given at your discretion in response to their professionalism and leadership.industry standard is for each individual guest to tip the guide team 5-10% of the trip price.

10 ESSENTIAL TRAVEL GUIDE WHAT S NEXT? If you are ready to book call at or fill out on our online booking form. If you already booked, there is a lot of great information below regarding getting ready for your trip and things like upgrade bikes, trip insurance and housekeeping items that you ll want to ensure are completed on time. THE ESSENTIAL LINKS UPGRADES Upgrade to the Trek Madone 6.5 road bike, electric assist bikes, carbon wheels and Garmins. TRIP INSURANCE Protecting your trip investment from unforeseen circumstances that might affect your trip. IN HOUSE TRAVEL AGENT Allow us to arrange your pre and post trip hotels, air travel, trains and other activities for a nominal fee. TRAINING Our partner, Vision Quest Training, offers custom training programs to prepare any rider for their trip. RIDER LEVEL We have trips for every type of rider. Find the best fit with our rider type explained section. CONNECTIONS CLUB Our Connections Club rewards repeat guests with trip discounts, complimentary upgrades and more! CYCLING GEAR TO PACK Use this comprehensive packing list to make sure you bring just what you need for on and off the bike. OFF THE BIKE APPAREL With your bike fashion covered, here are suggestions for off the bike apparel for your trip. FAQS Read a lot of great information about your bike tour in our easy to navigate FAQ section. REFERRAL REWARDS Bring a friend on your Trek Travel cycling vacation and earn a $200 referral bonus each time! CANCELLATION POLICY Be informed rather than surprised. Trip cancellation policies differ so take a moment to look yours over. Cancellation Policy: If you must cancel your trip more than 90 days prior to departure, there is a cancellation fee of $100; between days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 25% of the original trip price; between days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 50% of the original trip price; there is no refund for cancelling a trip less than 30 days prior to departure. If you choose to change your trip more than 90 days prior to departure, you may do so with no fee. From days, there will be a $1,000 administrative fee. If you choose to change your trip within 60 days of the original trip start, the cancellation policy outlined above will apply. Please be aware that it is only possible to move to another trip within one year of the original trip departure date.