Imagine waking up in the wilderness surrounded by towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and a sense of genuine adventure. For those drawn to breathtaking mountain scenery and wildlife, the Canada 7-Day National Parks Camping Tour from Seattle offers an immersive escape into the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Priced at $1,995 per person, this tour packs a week of unforgettable experiences, from canoeing on Lake Louise to hiking in Jasper and exploring Vancouver. Guided by knowledgeable hosts, you’ll travel through some of the most iconic parks in Western Canada, all while camping beneath starry skies.

What we particularly like about this trip are the small group size, allowing for personalized attention, and the opportunity to camp in scenic locations—something rare these days when most tours stick to hotels. You’ll also appreciate the variety of activities, from wildlife viewing to glacier walks, making every day fresh and engaging.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves a lot of outdoor activity and camping, meaning you should be comfortable with some rugged conditions and packing your patience for variable weather. But if you’re an active traveler who loves authentic experiences, this is a fantastic way to see the Canadian Rockies without the high costs of private guide services.

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to explore Canada’s awe-inspiring wilderness, families with older children, or anyone who prefers camping over hotels to truly connect with nature.

Key Points

Authentic camping experience in scenic national parks
Expert-guided with a focus on wildlife and nature
Visiting iconic sites like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the Icefield Parkway
Small group size for personalized attention
Includes transportation, camping gear, and some meals, offering good value
Active itinerary with hiking, canoeing, and wildlife spotting

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the Magic of the Canadian Rockies

This 7-day tour delivers a well-rounded taste of the Canadian Rockies, blending stunning scenery with active outdoor pursuits. It’s designed for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—here, you’ll get a chance to experience the landscape firsthand.

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Day 1: From Seattle to Kamloops

The adventure starts early from the Best Western Seattle Airport Hotel, heading north across the border into Canada. We loved the first leg of the journey for its abundance of wildlife and beautiful scenery—think elk, bears, and even the possibility of spotting a cougar. The stop at Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park for a short walk and picnic is a great way to stretch your legs and enjoy your first taste of the wilderness. Camping under the stars in Kamloops is a perfect introduction to outdoor life, giving you a sense of being truly immersed in nature.

Day 2: Exploring Yoho National Park and Glacier National Park

Heading east, you’ll traverse the scenic routes of Yoho National Park, famous for Emerald Lake. We enjoyed the relaxed morning exploring trails that lead to the lakeshore, with options to hike or just soak in the views. The drive along the Kicking Horse Pass across the Continental Divide is breathtaking, with towering peaks and panoramic vistas. The highlight here is Rogers Pass, where you can admire peaks over 10,000 feet. Ending the day in Banff, you’ll camp in a setting that feels like a postcard. The combination of scenic drives and natural beauty makes this day particularly memorable.

Day 3: The Jewel of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

Lake Louise is an image many travelers dream of—its turquoise waters framed by glaciers and high peaks. We loved the chance to canoe on these calm waters, feeling both peaceful and connected to the landscape. Trails around the lake lead to the Lake Agnes Tea House, offering views and a cozy spot for a snack. Moraine Lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks is another must-see, with postcard-perfect photos. Spending the night camping nearby keeps you close to this stunning scenery and allows for early morning photos without crowds.

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Day 4: The Icefields Parkway

This day is dedicated to driving along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most spectacular roads in North America. Expect jaw-dropping views of glaciers, jagged mountains, and waterfalls. The optional helicopter ride over the Columbia Icefield or a walk onto the Athabasca Glacier adds a wow factor, though these are extra-cost options. Even without upgrades, the short walks and viewpoints like Peyto Lake and Bow Glacier make this day a highlight. Camping again under the vast stars makes for a perfect end to a day of spectacular scenery.

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Day 5: Jasper National Park and Mount Robson

Jasper is Canada’s largest national park, and it feels wild and less commercial than some of the other areas. The landscape of snow-capped peaks, lakes, and abundant wildlife is stunning. If you’re interested, the Miette Hot Springs offer a relaxing break, or you can hike around the lakeshores. As we drove through the park, catching a glimpse of Mount Robson at the route’s edge was a memorable moment—its towering presence is the highest point in the Rockies. The drive to Clearwater is scenic, and camping here continues the wilderness vibe.

Day 6: Whistler and Vancouver

Time to head south to the alpine resort of Whistler, famous for hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics. We loved strolling through this lively town, watching skiers and mountain bikers, and soaking in panoramic views from the peaks. The Sea to Sky highway offers some of the most striking scenery in British Columbia. Ending the day in Vancouver, you’ll enjoy exploring the city’s waterfront, Chinatown, and Stanley Park—all accessible and vibrant.

Day 7: Vancouver and Returning Home

Your last morning involves a city tour of Vancouver, giving you a taste of urban life with its diverse districts and beautiful parks. The tour concludes with a drop-off in Seattle, bringing your trip full circle. This blend of natural splendor and city life makes the tour appealing to a variety of travelers.

What This Tour Means for You

This tour offers a rich balance of outdoor activities, scenic drives, and cultural stops, all packed into a week. The small group size keeps things intimate, and the camping component makes the experience more authentic and budget-friendly—though it requires some comfort with outdoor sleeping gear. The guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, adding context and local insights that enhance your understanding of the landscapes.

Pricing at $1,995 includes most meals, camping gear (excluding sleeping bags), and guided hikes, making it a good value considering the extensive itinerary and stunning destinations. The optional helicopter or glacier walk activities provide opportunities to elevate your experience, though they come at extra costs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re an active traveler who enjoys hiking, wildlife, and being outdoors, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also ideal if you want to visit iconic sites without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers who love adventure and nature will appreciate the mix of guided exploration and free time.

Possible Drawbacks

The main consideration is that this tour involves camping in remote locations, so it’s not suited for those seeking luxury or sensitive to outdoor conditions. The schedule is busy, with long driving days and active pursuits, so travelers should be prepared for some physical activity and variable weather.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day Canadian Rockies camping tour offers a rare opportunity to see some of North America’s most stunning scenery up close and personal. It’s particularly well-suited for those who want an adventurous, authentic experience that combines outdoorsy activities with cultural exploration. The guided format ensures you won’t get lost or miss key sights, while camping under the stars amplifies the feeling of truly being in the wilderness.

For travelers eager to balance adventure with comfort (and aren’t afraid of sleeping in tents), this trip provides excellent value—covering everything from glacier walks to wildlife spotting in a compact, well-organized package. It’s a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation of the Canadian wilderness while making connections with like-minded explorers.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not suitable for children under 7 years old, likely due to the active outdoor schedule and camping component.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 people, keeping the experience intimate and allowing for personalized attention from guides.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included—specifically 5 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 evening camp meals—at an additional cost of $140 per person.

What do I need to bring?
You should bring a passport, and if you have one, a sleeping bag (since camping equipment is provided but sleeping bags are not). Be prepared for variable weather and outdoor conditions.

Can I customize or upgrade activities?
Extras like helicopter flights over the Columbia Icefield or glacier walks are available at additional costs, adding more adventure if desired.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included throughout the trip, with guided drives along scenic routes like the Icefields Parkway and Sea to Sky Highway.

What kind of guide will I have?
The tour is led by live, English-speaking guides who are knowledgeable about the parks, wildlife, and local culture, enhancing the overall experience.

This comprehensive journey promises spectacular views, active exploration, and a genuine taste of Canada’s wild heart. Whether you’re looking for a memorable outdoor adventure or a way to see the Rockies with ease, this tour is worth considering.