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Alberta

Outdoor Adventure in the Canadian Rockies With Your Grandchild

Program No. 2182260MEADV-1116-60
On this active adventure with your grandchild, discover the Canadian Rockies by raft and on horseback and watch for grizzly bears, eagles and mountain goats in the wild!

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
Age 9 - 12
ROOMING OPTION PRICING
The figures below indicate the rooming options available.
DATES
Jul 6 - Jul 12, 2025
Per Adult
3,499
Per Child
2,399
Jul 6 - Jul 12, 2025
3,499
/ Adult
2,399
/ Child
3,499
/ Adult
2,399
/ Child
4,599
/ Adult
2,399
/ Child
Jul 20 - Jul 26, 2025
Per Adult
3,499
Per Child
2,399
Jul 20 - Jul 26, 2025
3,499
/ Adult
2,399
/ Child
3,499
/ Adult
2,399
/ Child
4,599
/ Adult
2,399
/ Child
Aug 3 - Aug 9, 2025
Per Adult
3,499
Per Child
2,399
Aug 3 - Aug 9, 2025
3,499
/ Adult
2,399
/ Child
3,499
/ Adult
2,399
/ Child
4,599
/ Adult
2,399
/ Child
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!

At a Glance

Take a deep breath and take in a huge gulp of some of the freshest air you’ll ever breathe as you visit the Canadian Rockies with your grandchild. Together you’ll experience the beauty of the majestic mountains along the Bow River trail from the saddle of a friendly horse. Explore the glittering waters of Lake Louise, and observe grizzlies from a gondola in one of the best places on earth to see these magnificent creatures in real life. The Rockies are just waiting for your curious, enthusiastic discovery.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Walking two miles daily, stairs, river float on Class II to III rapids. Elevations up to 5,700 feet.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Float the upper waters of the Kicking Horse River on a gentle but exhilarating whitewater rafting trip as your rafting instructor reveals the secrets of the mighty river.
  • Explore Yoho National Park, home to timber wolves, lynx, cougars, black bears, moose and more, and learn about Burgess Shale fossils, one of the most significant fossil sites in the world.
  • Witness a true feat of engineering, the Spiral Tunnels — two vast tunnels running figure-eight loops through the snowcapped mountains — and watch a train looping over and under itself, deep into the mountains and up the valley to the Kicking Horse Pass.

General Notes

Program is for grandchildren ages 9-12. For a comparable family adventure for all generations, check out "Outdoor Adventure in the Canadian Rockies With Your Family" (#23439)!
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Sonya Pollock
Sonya Pollock grew up in Calgary, Alberta and loved taking trips out to the Rocky Mountains as a child. These trips with her family solidified her love of nature and wildlife. Her passion for helping animals resulted in her pursuit of an MSc in animal behavior and welfare where she studied thermoregulation in the Indian rhinoceros. She’s currently a Ph.D. candidate in wildlife ecology at the University of Alberta where she studies grizzly bear habitat selection in Banff National Park.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Brenda Blair
Brenda Blair View biography
A summer job as a general studies student changed Brenda Blair’s life forever. She spent eight years living in Cold Lake before moving to Sydney, Australia for a few more. For the past twenty years Brenda has lived in Calgary, being involved in adult education as well as having a particular interest in vintage and historic aircraft. That had her working for a number of years at the Aero Space Museum of Calgary, bringing her passion to life for visitors.
Profile Image of Sonya Pollock
Sonya Pollock View biography
Sonya Pollock grew up in Calgary, Alberta and loved taking trips out to the Rocky Mountains as a child. These trips with her family solidified her love of nature and wildlife. Her passion for helping animals resulted in her pursuit of an MSc in animal behavior and welfare where she studied thermoregulation in the Indian rhinoceros. She’s currently a Ph.D. candidate in wildlife ecology at the University of Alberta where she studies grizzly bear habitat selection in Banff National Park.
Profile Image of Routes Adventures Mobile Phone
Routes Adventures Mobile Phone View biography
Please call the toll free line at 1-866-745-1690 during regular business hours or for non-urgent matters (Mon - Fri 8:30 - 4:30 EST). The mobile phone #1-613-331-5777 is for after hours and weekends for emergency use only. The phone is carried by a staff member.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
7 days
Program Begins
Calgary, Alberta
Program Concludes
Banff, Alberta
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
15 | 6B | 4L | 5D |
Activity Level
Take a deep breath and take in a huge gulp of some of the freshest air you’ll ever breathe as you visit the Canadian Rockies with your grandchild. Together you’ll experience the beauty of the majestic mountains along the Bow River trail from the saddle of a friendly horse. Explore the glittering waters of Lake Louise, and observe grizzlies from a gondola in one of the best places on earth to see these magnificent creatures in real life. The Rockies are just waiting for your curious, enthusiastic discovery.)
Best of all, you'll...
  • Float the upper waters of the Kicking Horse River on a gentle but exhilarating whitewater rafting trip as your rafting instructor reveals the secrets of the mighty river.
  • Explore Yoho National Park, home to timber wolves, lynx, cougars, black bears, moose and more, and learn about Burgess Shale fossils, one of the most significant fossil sites in the world.
  • Witness a true feat of engineering, the Spiral Tunnels — two vast tunnels running figure-eight loops through the snowcapped mountains — and watch a train looping over and under itself, deep into the mountains and up the valley to the Kicking Horse Pass.
General Notes
Program is for grandchildren ages 9-12. For a comparable family adventure for all generations, check out "Outdoor Adventure in the Canadian Rockies With Your Family" (#23439)!
Featured Expert
Profile Image
Sonya Pollock
Sonya Pollock grew up in Calgary, Alberta and loved taking trips out to the Rocky Mountains as a child. These trips with her family solidified her love of nature and wildlife. Her passion for helping animals resulted in her pursuit of an MSc in animal behavior and welfare where she studied thermoregulation in the Indian rhinoceros. She’s currently a Ph.D. candidate in wildlife ecology at the University of Alberta where she studies grizzly bear habitat selection in Banff National Park.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of Brenda Blair
Brenda Blair
A summer job as a general studies student changed Brenda Blair’s life forever. She spent eight years living in Cold Lake before moving to Sydney, Australia for a few more. For the past twenty years Brenda has lived in Calgary, being involved in adult education as well as having a particular interest in vintage and historic aircraft. That had her working for a number of years at the Aero Space Museum of Calgary, bringing her passion to life for visitors.
Profile Image of Routes Adventures Mobile Phone
Routes Adventures Mobile Phone
Please call the toll free line at 1-866-745-1690 during regular business hours or for non-urgent matters (Mon - Fri 8:30 - 4:30 EST). The mobile phone #1-613-331-5777 is for after hours and weekends for emergency use only. The phone is carried by a staff member.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Walking two miles daily, stairs, river float on Class II to III rapids. Elevations up to 5,700 feet.
Small Group (13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (18 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
7 days
6 nights
What's Included
15 meals | 6B | 4L | 5D |
1 expert-led lecture
9 expert-led field trips
2 hands-on experiences
An experienced Group Leader
6 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Expand All
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 4:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Program Registration. 4:00-5:00 p.m. After you check in and have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table in the lobby to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived.
Dinner:
6:00 p.m.at the hotel.
Evening:
Orientation. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This is a Road Scholar Grandparent program. Grandparents are responsible for their grandchildren at all times. If/when separate age group activities are conducted concurrently, program staff will supervise. Minors are never to be left unsupervised. We will learn from a series of local experts who will give lectures and lead field trips with our knowledgeable Group Leader. Program-related travel and transfers will be via private motorcoach unless noted otherwise. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 100 miles throughout the day, approximately 2 hours riding time. Walking up to 2 miles; uneven terrain. Wear sturdy shoes.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will check out of the hotel, board a motorcoach, and set out on a field trip to the Calgary Zoo. We will encounter animals that call the prairies, sub-alpine forests and Rocky Mountains home. As we wander along forested paths, we’ll see natural enclosures where brown bears can bathe in a pond, bison survey the land, and cougars and wolves nap in the sun. The Canadian Wilds section of the Calgary Zoo is also home to Skoki, a rescued Grizzly bear, whose story illustrates the sometimes sad consequences of human/bear interaction. Next, we will ride to Heritage Park Historical Village.
Lunch:
At Heritage Park.
Afternoon:
At Heritage Park Historical Village, Canada’s largest living history museum, we’ll step back in time to a village that depicts the history of Western Canada from the 1860s through the 1930s. Costumed interpreters help tell the story of Canada’s past with exhibits featuring steam trains, antique automobiles, and historical buildings that were transported to the park furnished and decorated with genuine artifacts. We will then transfer to Banff and check in to our hotel.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 42 miles, approximately 1.5 to 2 hours riding time plus stops. Walking up to 2 miles; pavement and groomed trails, some stairs, uneven terrain at historic site.
Breakfast:
At the hotel
Morning:
We will hop aboard the motorcoach and ride to begin our exploration of Banff National Park at Johnston Canyon. This spectacular canyon has been formed over thousands of years by the waters of Johnston Creek passing over limestone as it approaches the Bow River. The creek has cut through the limestone rock to form sheer canyon walls, as well as waterfalls, tunnels, and pools. We’ll traverse sturdy iron catwalks while the waters of the creek flow beneath our feet. As we go, we’ll scan the rocks and woods for abundant flora and fauna and keep an eye out for water ouzel — birds called dippers — that can usually be seen bouncing up and down on streamside rocks. These slate-grey birds are equipped with an extra eyelid that allows them to see underwater. They also have scales that close their nostrils when submerged.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
This afternoon we will ride to Cave and Basin National Historic Site, which gave birth to Banff National Park and the creation of Canada’s national park system. Led by Parks Canada staff we will learn about the 1883 “discovery” of thermal hot springs, though First Nations people who had long known and revered this spot and the reputed healing power of the mineral-rich waters. We’ll understand why they regard the Cave and Basin as a sacred place as we see dancing lights in the cave’s bubbling waters.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
Tonight we will have a scavenger hunt.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 100 miles throughout the day, approximately 2 hours total riding time. Getting on/off inflatable rafts; Whitewater rafting Class II to III, approximately 1.5 hours. Bring swimsuit and towel. Meticulously maintained and cleaned daily gear provided: neoprene wetsuits, booties, gloves, polar fleece sweaters, spray jackets, mandatory government-approved life jackets, helmets.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board the motorcoach and ride to Yoho National Park, where this section of the Kicking Horse River offers fun and splashy waves and rapids along with beautifully scenic float sections. It is the ideal introduction to whitewater rafting. With river experts at the helm, we’ll navigate six Class II and Class III rapids during the journey downstream, approximately 1.5 hours. “Alarm Clock” rapid just moments after pushing off from shore is sure to wake everyone up. “Hopi’s Hole” will dowse us. We’ll learn how the Kicking Horse River earned its name, what wildlife inhabits the area, and what makes the river its beautiful color? We’ll also enjoy the quieter, upper reaches of the Kicking Horse River.
Lunch:
At the River Base, we’ll have a barbecue.
Afternoon:
Next, we will ride on to the Spiral Tunnels, where we will see the trains go through the feat of engineering that was safer than the previously used switchbacks. Yoho’s name derives from the Cree word for wonder and awe. It boasts an impressive array of wildlife and geological marvels. At Emerald Lake, named for its remarkable color, we’ll go on an expert-led trail walk to learn about the interesting plant species found here and at the Burgess Shale quarries along Fossil Ridge. We will also visit the nearby Field Interpretive Centre that has informative displays including one with Burgess Shale fossils. Parks Canada staff will be available to provide information and answer questions.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
We’ll have a kids’ paint night with a local artist inspired by nature.
Activity Note
Getting on/off horses; riding approximately 1 hour along a riverbank.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will be matched with friendly horses and receive basic horseback riding instruction; no experience necessary. Helmets are mandatory and provided. We’ll then set out with lead and tail trail leaders and follow the Bow River on horseback. As we ride, keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife amongst the thick marshes and grassy meadows. We’ll pass by the birthplace of the Banff National Park, where craggy rock walls surround pools of bubbling thermal water. After returning, we’ll have a behind-the-scenes look at the horse stables, learn how a functioning ranch works, and about the daily activities of the staff. It’s not all romantic rides into the sunset!
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy the local flavors of your choice. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 75 miles throughout the day, approximately 1.5 hours total riding time. Walking up to 2 miles; pavement, groomed trails.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We’ll then board a motorcoach and ride to the Lake Louise region. There we’ll learn from a wildlife expert about the role national parks play in grizzly bear conservation and how plants and animals have adapted to survive in this remarkable landscape. The Bow Valley is considered an internationally significant wildlife migration corridor within the Park and the Lake Louise area is notable for its critical grizzly bear, elk, lynx, bighorn sheep, and mountain goat habitat. As protected areas, the parks make an important contribution to grizzly bear conservation in the Rocky Mountain ecosystem. We’ll also learn how Parks Canada is conducting land use and management policies. We'll board an open air chair lift at the Lake Louise Gondola that runs up and down the mountain. The grassy slopes below the gondola offer lush, rich vegetation and, if we’re lucky on our brief but exciting ride, we may be able to safely observe many of the different types of wildlife. We’ll also be able to views of the green waters of Lake Louise from the top of the mountain.
Lunch:
A boxed lunch in a scenic area.
Afternoon:
For our next field trip, we’ll ride to Moraine Lake. Surrounded by peaks and a deep teal color, this lake is nothing less than stunning and sits in the gorgeous Valley of the Ten Peaks. We will explore the area around Fairmount Chateau Lake Louise with our Group Leader and walk the trail around the lake. We’ll ride back to the hotel after our field trip.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
We’ll gather for a wrap-up session and see a photo montage of our adventures. Then prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Group transfer departs Banff at 8:30 a.m., approximate arrival at Calgary airport 10:30 a.m. Hotel check-out 11:00 a.m.
Breakfast:
7:00 a.m. at the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
15 Meals
6 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
5 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Gluten Free, Vegetarian
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
Jul 06, 2025 - Jul 12, 2025
  • Jul 06, 2025 - Jul 12, 2025
  • Jul 06, 2025 - Jul 12, 2025 (Calgary, Alberta to Banff, Alberta)
  • Jul 20, 2025 - Jul 26, 2025 (Calgary, Alberta to Banff, Alberta)
  • Aug 03, 2025 - Aug 09, 2025 (Calgary, Alberta to Banff, Alberta)
1 night
Location: Calgary
Best Western Plus Port O' Call Calgary Airport Hotel is located just a short distance from the Calgary International with easy access to downtown Calgary.
5 nights
Location: Banff
The Rundlestone Lodge, located on Banff Avenue, is just minutes from downtown Banff.
1 night
Location: Calgary
Best Western Plus Port O' Call Calgary Airport Hotel is located just a short distance from the Calgary International with easy access to downtown Calgary.
5 nights
Location: Banff
The Rundlestone Lodge, located on Banff Avenue, is just minutes from downtown Banff.
1 night
Location: Calgary
Best Western Plus Port O' Call Calgary Airport Hotel is located just a short distance from the Calgary International with easy access to downtown Calgary.
5 nights
Location: Banff
The Rundlestone Lodge, located on Banff Avenue, is just minutes from downtown Banff.
Participant Reviews
5
Based on 14 Reviews
Sort By:
Ann | Pomona, CA
My grandson and I enjoyed sharing all the activities and quality time together. I highly recommend this program!
— Review left October 19, 2024
Gabriel – Class of 2019 | Dallas, TX
Beautiful location with many attractions. Excellent guide.
— Review left July 14, 2024
Jo Ann – Class of 2008 | West Lafayette, IN
This trip with our granddaughter was perfect. It was thrilling for the kids as well as the grandparents.
— Review left August 13, 2023
Richard – Class of 2015 | Gainesville, GA
Road Scholar aced another intergenerational trip, our 6th. Our 11-year-old granddaughter had a great time, as did my wife and me. Brenda Blair, our trip director, was outstanding. It was our delight to spend time with her, and to to experience her attention to each member of our group. The activities were excellent, even if the white water rafting left all us more than slightly cold, as we expected. The trip was active, as billed, even if the two-miles walking each day was a little understated. All in all, the trip was planned well, executed well, and a great experience in a beautiful part of Canada. Not to be glossed over, the hotels and food were also up to the standards we have come to expect after all 13 RS trips we've taken.
— Review left August 8, 2023
James – Class of 2023 | West Lafayette, IN
This was our first Road Scholar trip, and it won't be our last! What a great program to share with a grandchild. Our group leader, Brenda Blair was exceptional!
— Review left August 1, 2023
Jeanne – Class of 2017 | Flat Rock, NC
My granddaughter (10) and I truly loved this trip! The Canadian Rockies have to be one of the most beautiful places on earth! Definitely prepare to be on the go and tired at day's end (a hiking stick is helpful). Despite that, the children were always ready for a swim when we got back to the hotel. The food was very good and plenty of it; the hotels comfortable, quiet and clean. Everyone was friendly and helpful. Our group leader, Brenda, was an absolute treasure ... filled with local knowledge, always supportive and helpful, and with seemingly endless energy and positive attitude! Plus, the weather was terrific. High points were definitely the horseback ride, the whitewater rafting, and the spectacular views of the lakes. I feel so fortunate to have been able to take this once in a lifetime trip with my granddaughter.
— Review left July 27, 2023
Philip – Class of 2006 | Montreat, NC
Great mix of fun and education...both for kids and adults. Warm, enthusiastic, competent leader. Gourmet meals (unexpected!) Incredible scenery!
— Review left July 18, 2023
Barbara – Class of 2019 | St Francis, WI
This was an amazing trip for my grandson and me. It was just the right blend of exciting activity, travel and learning. Being with other grandchildren and grandparents enhanced all the activities. Our group leader was excellent. She was knowledgeable, engaging, helpful and well prepared. We are already talking about another trip next year.
— Review left August 29, 2022
Barbara – Class of 2007 | Austin, TX
I just returned from Banff and the outdoor adventure with my grandson. I can't say enough good things about our week in Canada. Of course the location was so beautiful and the cooler weather a plus. The week was a good combination of planned and free time. The grandchildren were kept busy with fun activities but had time to use the hotel swimming pools at the end of the day. We did use a very comfortable and roomy bus to get to the day's outings but there were never times when the bus ride was excessive. This is a good trip to take with you grandchild and very well planned by Road Scholar.
— Review left July 11, 2022
Lonna – Class of 2003 | Northville, MI
A wonderful way to experience quality time and a meaningful adventure with our grandchildren.
— Review left July 11, 2022
Susan – Class of 2022 | Summerville, SC
My granddaughter and I throughly enjoyed the grandparent & grandchild program in Banff. We look forward to another trip of fun and meeting new friends
— Review left July 11, 2022
Kevin – Class of 2021 | Ames, IA
This was such a fun trip. It was the perfect way to make memories with our grandson. Thank you Road Scholar for the opportunity.
— Review left July 10, 2022
Michael – Class of 2022 | Austin, TX
If you really, really want to get to know your granddaughter or grandson as best you can, definitely don't miss an adventure like this one to the amazing Canadian Rockies. Yes, the adventures and views and people you meet will open your eyes further on the world today. But your understanding of your grandchild will be the most lasting gift you take away.
— Review left July 10, 2022
Tena – Class of 2008 | Fairfax, VA
Brenda Blair was an outstandIng leader, both for the children and the adults. The program and itinerary were fascinating and filled with fun adventure and magnificent scenery. The balance between fun and education was just right. Highly recommend!
— Review left August 5, 2019





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