moderate
4–6 hours
Participants should have average fitness levels and be comfortable with outdoor walking and some elevation gain.
Discover the secret spots of the Canadian Rockies on this exclusive private tour. From remote waterfalls to breathtaking mountain vistas, experience the true wild beauty of Yoho and Kootenay with Radventures.
Get up close and personal with the Rockies biggest waterfall!
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Yoho and Kootenay National Parks, where you'll explore breathtaking landscapes, including the majestic Takakkaw Falls and serene Emerald Lake. This small-group adventure reveals hidden gems and local secrets, allowing you to experience the Rockies' wild beauty without the crowds. Immerse yourself in nature's wonders!
8 Hours (from Banff pick-up to drop-off)
$250 CAD + tax & processing fees.
This tour is restricted to those aged 12 and above. Families with younger children can reach out for alternate experiences, such as private tours.
Private Yoho & Kootenay Rockies Hidden Gems Adventure
Did you know? This experience is part of our Ultimate Rockies Explorer package.
Emerald Lake Euphoria: Upon arrival, it won't take you long to see where this stunning alpine lake gets its name from. Rent a canoe or take a short hike to revel in its serenity against the dramatic mountain skyline.
Takakkaw Falls Majesty: Stand in awe of Takakkaw Falls, the Rockies' towering crown jewel and Canada's second tallest waterfall. Feel the mist on your face and the roar in your ears as cascading waters plummet from staggering heights.
Marble Canyon Mystique: Traverse the intricate pathways of Marble Canyon. Marvel at the delicate dance of light and shadow on its chiselled rock faces, and let the echoing whispers of its ancient stories enchant you.
Local Secrets Revealed: Beyond the known landmarks, we'll guide you to hidden nooks known only to locals. From secluded glades to panoramic viewpoints, these lesser-trodden paths promise genuine wonder.
Personalized Exploration: Our group adventures capture the heart of Yoho & Kootenay, but for those with an individualist streak, carve your own path. Our guides are always eager to share lesser-known spots and tales, ensuring a truly unique experience.
Travel in comfort in our spacious new model high-roof passenger vans & minibuses with large panoramic windows. We offer pick-up and drop-off from chosen Banff & Lake Louise locations, with options available at checkout.
Lake Louise pick-up & drop-off option: Guests who opt for a Lake Louise pick-up will unfortunately miss the first stop on this adventure, Marble Canyon. To minimize your driving time/distance, guests staying in Lake Louise are welcome to meet us and join the tour at Castle Junction. For more information or to make arrangements, please contact Radventures.
Weather: This adventure runs rain, snow or shine! Only under extreme weather conditions will there be cancellations, with full refunds or rescheduling options.
Pro local tip: Mountain weather is notoriously unpredictable. Sometimes, the uncertain conditions, gift us with the most mesmerizing landscapes and minimal crowd interference. Embrace it!
Please dress for the unpredictable mountain weather.
Accessibility: Adapted to various fitness levels, this tour involves some light walking to fully appreciate the surroundings.
Lunch: We highly recommend you BYO or opt-in for our delicious picnic lunch.
What does the tour's schedule usually look like?
8:00am - 8:35am: Hotel pick ups in Banff 9:15am - 10:00am: Marble Canyon 10:30am - 10:45am: Hotel pick ups in Lake Louise 11:30am - 1:15pm: Emerald Lake 1:30pm - 2:15pm: Takakkaw Falls 3:15pm - 3:30pm: Hotel drop-offs in Lake Louise 4:00pm - 4:15pm: Hotel drop-offs in Banff
Will the lake be blue?
Emerald Lake remains frozen into early June and usually starts to freeze again mid-November, but it all really depends. Either way, we promise that frozen or thawed, you'll be amazed at the beauty you see!
For more intricate details or specific queries, dive into our exhaustive FAQ section or connect with us directly!
Weather in the mountains can change quickly; pack moisture-wicking and insulating layers.
Arriving early allows you to enjoy popular spots before they get busy and improves photo lighting conditions.
Wear sturdy hiking boots and watch your step on uneven, rocky paths to prevent slips and injuries.
Capture the stunning scenery with a good camera or phone for high-quality photos during your trek.
The areas around Yoho and Kootenay have been traditionally used by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, and many sites hold cultural significance.
Radventures emphasizes Leave No Trace principles, ensuring these pristine landscapes remain pristine for future generations.
Sturdy and waterproof hiking boots provide support and protect your feet on rugged terrain.
Layered clothing suitable for changing mountain weather keeps you comfortable throughout the day.
spring, summer, fall, winter specific
A small backpack to carry water, snacks, camera, and other essentials.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat help protect against strong mountain UV rays.