CANADIAN ROCKIES 2014 Luxury 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. We ve designed this vacation to highlight some of the best aspects of this Canadian landscape. And who knows you may never want to leave! Cycle along scenic roads that earned the Canadian Rockies a place in National Geographic s 50 Ultimate Road Trips. Develop an appreciation for nature and marvel at the wildlife around you with eagles, elk, sheep and sometimes even a grizzly making guest star appearances on your trip! Field british columbia Hike through the Valley of the Ten Peaks with award-winning local guides. Take in the turquoise serenity of both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Cycle along Banff National Park s new bike path to the town of Canmore. Looking forward to meeting you! Cheryl Hyde Canadian Rockies Tr ip Expert Moraine Lake alberta Banff british columbia C A N A D A ALBERTA Banff Calgary saskat 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 53703 USA 866.464.8735 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 Page 1
ITINERARY DAY 1: Basic Option: Banff to Baker Creek to Lake Louise Approximately 37 miles with 1,300 feet of climbing Avid Option: Banff to Baker Creek to Moraine Lake Approximately 46 miles with 2,600 feet of climbing 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. After meeting your guides, a short private shuttle will take you to the start of today s ride along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway. After a short round of introductions, your guides will familiarize you with the features of your high-end Trek bike and ensure a comfortable fit before taking to this historic road, which is now a breathtaking route that s a cyclist s dream. Stop along the way to enjoy the views of Castle Mountain and the Canadian Pacific Railway that snakes through the region. Keep your eyes open for the elk and deer that roam the valley. Lunch will be served at the famous Baker Creek Chalets, where Chef Nigel will whip up a savory meal featuring delicious local foods. After lunch, climb all the way to witness the indescribable blue of Moraine Lake or shuttle to this secluded mountain hideaway tucked beneath the dramatic landscape of the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Tonight the intimate lodge dining room will provide the backdrop for a fantastic meal and the opportunity to get to know the rest of the group a little better. Hotel Moraine Lake Lodge www.morainelakelodge.com DAY 2: Hike: Valley of the Ten Peaks Canoe: Moraine Lake Basic Option: Moraine Lake to Lake Louise Return Approximately 18 miles with 1,500 feet of climbing This morning trade your bike for your hiking boots to explore this amazing area. You ll enjoy a unique and informative guided hike with one of our two local Master guides, Nadine and Joel, the area s toprated interpretive guides. These seasoned experts will lead you through the Valley of the Ten Peaks to learn about the flora, fauna, and mythology of these rugged mountains. Their detailed knowledge about the local grizzly population will astound you! After the hike, take to the water to relish the beauty of the area while canoing the crystalline waters of Moraine Lake. If you wish to take a spin today after your hike and paddle you can follow the meandering road that leads to Lake Louise, a spectacular destination which offers another chance to climb on the way back home, or take the shuttle if you prefer. This evening, you and your traveling companions reunite for another delicious dinner at Moraine Lake Lodge. 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 are difficult to find during your trip. Hotel Moraine Lake Lodge www.morainelakelodge.com Page 2
ITINERARY DAY 3: Basic Option: Moraine Lake to Bow Lake to Icefield Parkway Station Approximately 53 miles with 2,100 feet of climbing Short Option: Moraine Lake to Bow Lake Approximately 31 miles with 1,830 feet of climbing Avid Option: Moraine Lake to Peyto Lake to Icefield Parkway Station Approximately 62 miles with 2600 feet of climbing Hike: Emerald Lake This morning you ll leave Moraine Lake behind to ride up the Icefields Parkway. Take in the raw beauty of this breathtaking road as you climb to Bow Lake. Here you ll see ancient glaciers and sweeping mountain views as you climb. Stop here or continue on to the Num Ti Jah Lodge, built by an original mountain outfitter, on the way to the spectacular Peyto Lake. Everyone will meet at Bow Lake for a gourmet Trek Travel picnic where you can savor flavors and views. From here, shuttle or ride back down to the beginning of the Parkway, where everyone will shuttle to the acclaimed Emerald Lake Lodge in British Columbia. Following the Canadian Pacific Railway, you will also stop along the way to view the engineering marvel of the Spiral Tunnels. At the hotel, relax a while and take in the spectacular views that give Emerald Lake its name, enjoy some quiet reading time or take a refreshing afternoon nap. Tonight you will indulge in more delicious local cuisine in the lodge dining room. Hotel Emerald Lake Lodge www.emeraldlakelodge.com DAY 4: Basic Option: Emerald Lake to Takakkaw Falls to Field to Johnston Canyon Approximately 50 miles with 1,600 feet of climbing Short Option: Emerald Lake to Takakkaw Falls to Field Approximately 30 miles with 1,550 feet of climbing Avid Option: Emerald Lake to Takakkaw Falls to Field to Banff Approximately 71 miles with 2200 feet of climbing Hiking Option: Johnston Canyon Lower or Upper Falls After a hearty breakfast, on this morning s ride you will take in the views of Natural Bridge before heading up to Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada s highest waterfalls. After a short walk, return to your bike and descend to the town of Field where you will have lunch on your own. After lunch, shuttle to the top of the Bow Valley Parkway to hop on your bike again and continue riding toward Banff, stopping at Johnston Canyon along the way to hike up to the falls or just enjoy the scenery around you. Remember that your Trek Travel guides are right there to shuttle you any time your riding legs are done for the day. After settling in at the lodge, the rest of the day is yours to explore Banff. Consider visiting a true Canadian icon, the majestic Banff Springs Hotel, or taking in more pristine natural beauty on a picturesque gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain. Dine on your own this evening at one of the many excellent restaurants in Banff. Rider Level Rider Type: 2&3 Terrain: hilly Average Daily Distance: 50 miles Average Daily Climbing: 1,700 feet Hotel Buffalo Mountain Lodge www.buffalomountainlodge.com Page 3
ITINERARY DAY 5: Basic Option: Banff to Lake Minnewanka to Canmore Return Approximately 44 miles with 1,450 feet of climbing Short Option: Banff to Lake Minnewanka Loop Approximately 19 miles with 980 feet of climbing Avid Option: Banff to Mt. Norquay to Lake Minnewanka to Canmore Return Approximately 55 miles with 2500 feet of climbing This morning you ll enjoy the locals loop. First, cycle behind the Banff Centre to Surprise Corner and stop to take photos of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. If you have the legs, next ride up Mount Norquay and enjoy the sweeping views of the valley below. You ll cruise through town and ride alongside the icy blue waters of Lake Minnewanka, the largest body of water in Banff National Park. Be sure to watch out for an ever-present herd of bighorn sheep, grazing lazily in the park. Perhaps the best part of today s adventure is jumping into Cascade Ponds while your Trek Travel guides prepare one of their legendary Canadian picnics. After this scenic loop you can head back to the hotel at the top of Tunnel Mountain, passing the hoodoos and Mount Rundle, or you may continue riding to neighboring Canmore. You ll ride along a recently constructed bike path, the Legacy Trail, and enjoy stunning views. With many Olympic athletes and mountaineers living in Canmore, an active lifestyle is prevalent here. Linger in the local market or visit the artisan shops before returning to Banff. Tonight you and your newfound friends will gather at the hotel to toast the adventures of the week. A succulent Canadian meal will be the perfect top-off to your vacation. Hotel Buffalo Mountain Lodge www.buffalomountainlodge.com DAY 6: Farewell Enjoy a final breakfast with the majestic Canadian Rockies as your backdrop. Afterward, you may take a short walk up Tunnel Mountain. The mountain is 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 taking some final pictures of the magnificent natural landscape you can return to the hotel to finish packing before checkout. You ll say farewell to your guides at 9:30 AM at the Buffalo Mountain Lodge. The Banff Airporter has scheduled pick up times of 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM at the Buffalo Mountain Lodge for transfers to the Calgary International Airport. Please see their online schedule and make your reservations in advance. Please be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. Alternatively, you may take a taxi to any other Banff location for $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. Page 4
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. Moraine Lake Lodge Moraine Lake, Alberta, Canada Located in Banff National Park on the shores of Moraine Lake the Jewel of the Rockies Moraine Lake Lodge boasts private balcony views of the surrounding Valley of the Ten Peaks from each wood-beamed room and offers all the comforts of a luxurious alpine retreat. P.O. Box 70 403 522 3733 www.morainelakelodge.com Emerald Lake Lodge Field, British Columbia, Canada Emerald Lake Lodge is situated on a 13-acre peninsula within the boundaries of Yoho National Park. Your room will feature a private balcony and wood-burning fieldstone fireplace, which is restocked daily with fresh firewood. Rooms are designed to reflect the rustic feeling of the main lodge, which is crafted of handhewn timber and features massive stone fireplaces. The on-site lounge also features an oak bar salvaged from an 1890 s-era Yukon saloon. The dining room at the Lodge was recently named one of the 101 Best Hotel Restaurants Around the World by The Daily Meal. PO Box 10 250 343 6321 www.emeraldlakelodge.com 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. Buffalo Mountain Lodge Banff, Alberta, Canada Located just above the Banff township near Tunnel Mountain, Buffalo Mountain Lodge features rooms that are luxurious and spacious, and most have 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 1326 403 762 2400 www.buffalomountainlodge.com 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, Canadian Rocky Mountain-style cuisine. Menus feature wild game and fresh fish, particularly salmon and world-famous Alberta beef. All dinners and breakfasts are served in the hotel restaurants, and you ll be invited to enjoy several gourmet picnic lunches prepared by your guides featuring a range of local specialties. Page 5
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 (80 miles) for approximately $215. Please reserve your taxi in advance (Taxi Taxi: 403 762 0000). 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, you will transfer to our staging location in Banff. After a quick snack, thorough bike fitting, safety talk and introductions, your adventure begins! If you will be late for the pick-up or are going to miss it altogether, please inform your guides. You will receive an email a week before the trip start with their names and contact details. If you cannot reach them, please call our first hotel, Moraine Lake Lodge (403 522 3733), and leave a message with your expected arrival time and contact details. Your guides will advise you either to take a taxi to the staging area or Moraine Lake Lodge. 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 866 464 8735 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 9:30 AM at the Buffalo Mountain Lodge. The Banff Airporter has scheduled pick up times of 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM at the Buffalo Mountain Lodge for transfers to the Calgary International Airport. Please see their online schedule and make your reservations in advance. Please be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time. Alternatively, you may take a taxi to any other Banff location for $5-10. Page 6
BEFORE & AFTER NIGHTS 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. 800 661 8310 www.bestofbanff.com ~$260 The Fox Hotel and Suites offers a unique accommodation style in 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 800 441 1414 www.fairmont.com ~$550 For more than a century, The Castle in the Rockies has provided a 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 and level of luxury are unparalleled. Banff Inn 501 Banff Ave. 800 667 1464 www.banffinn.com ~$220 Banff Inn is a modern-style inn located on Banff Ave. Just steps from the center of the action, the Banff Inn provides a great location from which to base your adventures. The Inn also features wireless internet, a 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 e-mail one week before the trip start date. In the event you don t receive this email, please contact our sales team: sales@trektravel.com or 866.464.8735. Page 7
BEFORE & AFTER CALGARY Calgary is one of Canada s most vibrant cities and is very proud of its western heritage. Fine dining, shopping, museums, and a world-class zoo can all be found here, as well as the bobsled track built for the 1988 Winter Olympics, found in the Canada Olympic Park! We recommend the following accommodations for your post-trip hotel: Hotel Le Germain Calgary 899 Centre St. 877 362 8990 www.germaincalgary.com ~$275 Considered the top choice for a downtown stay, this luxury boutique hotel boasts a long list of amenities including a highly acclaimed restaurant, high-quality linens, complimentary wireless internet, walk-in closets and a full fitness center. They even welcome well-behaved dogs! Fairmont Palliser 133 9th Avenue SW 866 540 4477 www.fairmont.com ~$200 The original landmark hotel in downtown Calgary, built in 1914 by the Canadian Pacific Railway in the era when luxury was an art, this property continues to hold up a tradition of high-end service and amenities. It is ideally situated to discover Calgary s cultural attractions. It also has full spa and fitness facilities to further your enjoyment. Delta Calgary International Airport 2001 Airport Road N.E. 403 291 2600 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. Page 8
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 Email 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), or Trek 7.6 FX hybrid bike (visit www.trektravel. com/ridethebest.php for more details) The use of a Garmin while on your trip 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 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. Page 9
ESSENTIAL TRAVEL GUIDE WHAT S NEXT? If you are ready to book call at 866-464-8735 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, and carbon wheels. 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 61 90 days prior to departure there is a cancellation fee of 25% of the original trip price; between 31 60 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 61 90 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. Page 10