Southern Alberta: Canadian Rockies Guided Side by Side Tour

Explore the Canadian Rockies with Crowsnest Adventures Ltd.

The Southern Alberta: Canadian Rockies Guided Side by Side Tour offers an exciting way to experience the rugged beauty of the Rockies. Starting from the location at 49.57062911987305, -114.35987854003906, this 3.5-hour tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a combination of adventure and scenic exploration. With options to extend into a full-day ride, this tour features mountain views at over 7,000 feet, access to ghost towns, and encounters with historical sites like a 1946 plane crash. The tour is suitable for active travelers who enjoy rugged trails and outdoor pursuits, noting that mobility or heart problems may limit participation.

While the tour provides a guided experience in English, it also includes scenic quad bike rides, numerous photo stops, and opportunities for fishing, hiking, and backcountry camping. The group size and flexible reservation options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, make this a convenient choice for those seeking a memorable mountain adventure. The only notable limitation is that the activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.

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Key Points

• Guided Side by Side Tour: Experience the Canadian Rockies with professional guidance, reaching over 7,000 feet of elevation.
• Multiple Adventure Options: Choose between a 3-4 hour shorter experience or a full-day exploration, including quad biking and sightseeing.
• Historical and Natural Highlights: Visit an early 1900s ghost town and a 1946 plane crash site.
• Breathtaking Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas from rugged trails and mountain peaks.
• Additional Activities: Options include fishing in crystal-clear rivers, hiking to mountain lakes, and backcountry camping.
• Practical Needs: Be prepared with outdoor clothing, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and fishing license if interested in fishing.

Starting Point and Meeting Arrangements

This tour departs from Crowsnest Adventures Ltd., with the exact meeting location available upon email inquiry. The coordinates provided (49.57062911987305, -114.35987854003906) guide participants to the central starting point. The meeting includes a safety briefing and a photo stop, ensuring everyone feels prepared before heading into the mountains.

What the Itinerary Includes

Participants begin with a guided introduction and a photo stop that offers an excellent overview of the surrounding mountains. A quad bike ride of about 1 hour transports guests into the heart of the Canadian Rockies, revealing remote valleys. Additional scenic drives and sightseeing last around 10 minutes to 3 hours, allowing ample time for photos and exploring rugged trails.

The tour also features a 20-minute hike to a mountain lake, perfect for those seeking a touch of solitude and natural beauty. For adventure seekers, options like backcountry camping—either on foot or with a Yamaha RMax 4—are available, making this experience suitable for overnight excursions or longer adventures. The search for the Lost Lemon Gold Mine adds an element of mystery to the exploration.

The Routes and Scenic Highlights

The guided scenic drive takes participants through some of the most dramatic landscapes in the area. Rugged trails offer spectacular views and the chance to see historic sites such as the ghost town from the early 1900s and the 1946 military plane crash site. These stops not only provide great photo opportunities but also a glimpse into the area’s history.

Reaching over 7,000 feet allows visitors to take in vast mountain panoramas, while the valleys explored during the ride showcase lush wilderness and remote terrain. The trails are designed to be rugged, which enhances the authenticity of the experience but requires participants to be physically fit and prepared for outdoor conditions.

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Practical Tips for a Successful Trip

Participants should come prepared with appropriate outdoor clothing, including hiking pants, breathable clothing, rain gear, and snow clothing, depending on the season. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and sunglasses help protect against the mountain elements. Bringing a camera is essential for capturing the stunning scenery, while food and drinks keep energy levels up during longer adventures.

Fishing licenses are necessary if planning to fish in the rivers or lakes, and trekking gear can enhance the experience on rugged trails or in the backcountry. The tour’s physical demands mean that those with mobility impairments or heart problems should consider other options, as this activity is geared toward physically fit outdoor lovers.

Extending the Experience: Full-Day and Multi-Day Options

While the standard tour lasts 3.5 hours, it is possible to opt for a full-day adventure that includes scenic drives, additional hikes, and visits to more remote valleys. Longer excursions can incorporate backcountry camping or overnight backpacking trips up to 7 days, offering a deeper immersion into the rugged mountain wilderness.

For those interested in fishing, the tour provides opportunities in crystal-clear rivers and lakes, with the added thrill of waking up to the mountain scenery and the possibility to tease fish in peaceful settings. The fly fishing excursions are another way to extend the adventure, making for a full outdoor experience.

Booking and Cancellation Policies

Reservations can be made with the benefit of reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning. Free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring peace of mind in case of schedule changes. The activity is conducted in English, and wheelchair accessibility is available, although the rugged nature of the trails may pose limitations.

Why Choose This Canadian Rockies Tour

This guided Side by Side experience offers a unique way to see the Canadian Rockies’ rugged terrain and panoramic views without the need for extensive hiking or driving. The combination of historical sites like ghost towns and plane crash sites, along with the opportunity to fish, hike, and camp, appeals to adventure seekers looking for variety and authenticity.

The scenic quad bike rides and guided sightseeing ensure a safe, educational, and visually stunning experience. Participants who enjoy outdoor challenges and are prepared with appropriate gear will find this tour especially rewarding. While it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, it remains an excellent choice for active travelers wanting to explore the remote wilderness of Southern Alberta.

Southern Alberta: Canadian Rockies Guided Side by Side Tour – Final Thoughts

This tour delivers a rich outdoor adventure with the added thrill of mountain vistas at over 7,000 feet, historic sites, and possibilities for fishing and camping. The guided aspect ensures safety and local knowledge, making it accessible to those comfortable with rugged outdoor activities.

While it requires participants to be physically fit and prepared for rugged trails, the flexible options for shortening or extending the experience make it adaptable to different interests and schedules. For those seeking an active, scenic, and historically interesting mountain trip, this guided Side by Side tour offers a well-rounded adventure in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The standard guided Side by Side tour lasts 3.5 hours, with options to extend into a full-day ride.

Where does the tour start?
The tour departs from Crowsnest Adventures Ltd., with exact details provided upon email inquiry. The coordinates are 49.57062911987305, -114.35987854003906.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The activity is ideal for those who are physically fit and enjoy outdoor adventures. It is not recommended for people with mobility impairments or heart problems.

Are meals or snacks provided?
Participants should bring food and drinks; the tour does not specify provision of meals.

Can I fish during the tour?
Yes, fishing in rivers and lakes is available if you have a fishing license.

What should I wear?
Prepare with outdoor clothing, including hiking shoes, weather-appropriate gear, and sun protection.

Is there an age limit?
The data does not specify age restrictions, but participants should be active and prepared for rugged trails.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the activity.

What languages are spoken during the tour?
The tour is conducted in English.

Is the experience suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, but participants should be comfortable with outdoor activities and rugged terrain.

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