After the high expectations Alaska created and fulfilled on our travels we were both happy to know that Canada lived up to them too! With a short stay in Vancouver city before exploring the snow-covered rockies which was in such close proximity, I could already tell that this is one place I would quickly fall in love with, and it was time to explore it.
Moose Travel Network – Hoodapus Pass
We booked a tour through company Moose Travel Network which can be used as a set tour or as a hop-on hop-off network where you can choose to spend more time in one place, then wait for the next bus to come along and pick you up. We booked in for the Hoodapus Pass tour and did the recommended days – and it did not dissapoint!
We were in Canada at the end of March so there was still plenty of snow fall. A lot of the lakes were still frozen over and it was a beautiful sight. It also gives me more reason to revisit in the summer time to witness the glacier colours of the lakes when they melt. We had such an awesome tour group and guide; the group made up of about 14 people so it was great to get to know everyone. We stayed in hostels which were pre-booked by Moose Network but pay on arrival which made it one less thing to worry about.
Day 1: Vancouver to Kelowna
Bridal Veil Falls was our first stop and the first of many walks on the trip. Passing through the town of Hope, we were headed for the town of Kelowna where we watched our first ice hockey game. Checking into our hostel, we all ended up out for dinner & drinks before it became a bit messier than intended.
Stay @ Samesun, Kelowna
Day 2: Kelowna to Banff
This morning, we passed the Coldstream Valley, through the towns of Revelstoke and Golden before leaving British Columbia behind and entering the province of Alberta for the Canadian Rockies.
We passed many mountains, lakes, rivers and waterfalls – Canada really has it all. First stop, Yoho National Park where we explored Natural Bridge and Emerald Lake. The lakes were partially frozen and honestly nothing could of prepared us for the snow-covered beauty we were seeing.
We headed for the town of Banff, our second night stay. We explored the streets before checking into our hostel then out to dinner. So cool seeing caribou right in town.
Stay @ HI Banff
Day 3: Banff to Jasper via the Icefields Parkway
We were headed north on the Trans-Canada Highway, amazed at the amount of snow and beautiful jagged mountain peaks we were passing.
Our first stop was the stunning but frozen Lake Louise! It was amazing to see where the turquoise lagoon once stood was now a snow-covered field for people to explore.
Soaking up the awe inspiring scenery along the Icefields Parkway, our next stop was Bow Lake in Banff National Park and it was amazing how small these majestic mountains made you feel.
We continued on our trek headed for Athabasca Glacier, whilst frequently stopping on the side of the road for more treks through paths covered in deep snow. We parked and walked up the glacier as high as we could – absolute serenity.
We head up to Jasper and Maligne canyon before heading to HI Athabasca Falls Wilderness Hostel for the night. I loved the feeling of being in the middle of nowhere, no electricity and no hot water – the only means of keeping warm was around the wood fire, and it was something else.
Stay @ HI Athabasca Falls Wilderness Hostel
Day 4: Jasper to Banff
This morning, we continued on for Athabasca Falls.
We were on the drive south, feet soaking wet from our damp shoes from the many treks through snow. We were just coming up to the Big Bend near Parker Ridge when our tour guide John pulled over to the side of the road and yelled ‘let’s go!’ We looked out the window at more snow and moaned that we had had enough for one day. He promised us that this was one walk we did not want to miss.
John led us to the side of the road, assumably where a guardrail would be and we all looked down at the snow covered decline. There didn’t appear to be any signs or paths outlined like the other walks. John smiled at us, then jumped and slid down, making his own snow slide to a non-existent, snow covered path down below. Laughing, most of the guys followed suit and after some convincing from the others, I sat down on the slope to join in too! We continued along the walk, falling knee deep in the snow with each step we made, watching the dramatic drop to our right. We turned the corner to see something that I had never seen before in my life or even considered could happen! One of the highlights of my trip – a giant frozen waterfall. We walked on the frozen platform and stood next to what would of been the rushing waterfall. Amazing! Note to self: When your tour guide promises something you can’t miss, trust them!
The last stop before Banff (and my personal favourite) was the fairly decent but rewarding trek through snow (once again) to the beautiful wolf-shaped Peyto Lake.
Stay @ HI Banff
Day 5: Banff
With a spare day in Banff, John gave us a lift to Banff Sunshine Village to go skiing! Wade had a really good day heading up on the chair lift and skiing his way down. I on the other hand felt like baby Bambi stuck in a blizzard – my legs just wouldn’t cooperate with the skis. I looked forward to lunch and a hot chocolate at the cafe.
Stay @ HI Banff
Day 6 & 7: Banff to Vancouver with a night in Kelowna
The Hoodapus pass was a 7 night tour, stopping in Kelowna on the way home before arriving back in Vancouver. Tours in late March – early April will leave you with plenty of snow to play with! The itinerary does change during the warmer months with more stops, more emerald coloured lakes, more walks and possibly more wildlife! I really recommend the tour any time of year – It’s a great way to meet fellow travellers who are interested in the sights, scenery and a good time.
Tour: Moose Network – Hoodapus Pass
Price: $395.10 pass + $195.00 accommodation pack per person – Canadian dollars
ONLY HAPPY WHEN I TRAVEL 