Calgary Stampede, Banff & Lake Louise

4 July 2012
Depart the UK for your flight to Calgary. Upon arrival into Calgary, transfer (own cost) to the 3* Sandman Hotel.  Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight: Calgary

5 July 2012
Today is at leisure so you may explore Calgary at your own pace.  Calgary is a city that lives and breathes its unique western heritage of community dynamism, entrepreneurial spirit, and genuine hospitality. There’s no other city in the world quite like it.  The go-to city for travellers seeking to experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Calgary’s rich western heritage, cultural vibrancy and urban sophistication also make it a must-see destination in itself. There’s no better time to experience Calgary’s distinctive and energetic western heritage than during the world-renowned Calgary Stampede when visitors and residents a like let loose their inner cowboy or cowgirl!
Overnight: Calgary

6 July 2012
Today the Calgary Stampede gets underway and is launched with the parade through the city centre.  The Calgary Stampede is undoubtedly Calgary's best-known visitor attraction. This event, 'the greatest outdoor show on earth' features a real rodeo, a midway (amusement park), concerts, chuckwagon races and more. The city of Calgary is transformed for 10 days into town celebrating the cowboy culture. Visitors will enjoy the atmosphere and always friendly attitude of the locals. The famous Rodeo portion of the Calgary Stampede takes place daily at 1:30 pm. This tournament-style rodeo focuses on six major events: Bareback, Bull Riding, Barrel Racing, Saddle Bronc, Steer Wrestling and Tie-Down Roping. Overnight: Calgary

7 July 2012
That pounding of hooves and trembling of the ground can mean only one thing; the world’s premier chuckwagon event, the GMC Rangeland Derby, has begun! During the evening's heats, you’ll witness all the heart-stopping action as 36 drivers, 288 horses and their teams of outriders vie for over $1.15 million in prize money! During the Stampede, the races start nightly at 8 pm. The world famous Grandstand Show follows. Overnight: Calgary

8 July 2012
This morning depart Calgary for a scenic drive through the foothills of the Rockies to the resort town of Banff. U pon arrival in Banff, continue on a sightseeing tour of the region. Highlights include visits to the Hoodoos - shaped by centuries of wind, Surprise Corner with view of the Banff Springs Hotel, Tunnel Mountain Drive over-looking the splendor of Bow Valley and the Cave and Basin where Banff’s history began. After the tour your Driver/Guide will take you to your hotel.
Overnight: Banff

9 July 2012
Journey along the Bow Valley Parkway to Johnston Canyon where time is available to enjoy a short nature walk to the lower falls. Views of Castle Mountain prevail as you continue touring along the Parkway toward Lake Louise. En route, stop off at a photographer’s dream - Moraine Lake. From Moraine Lake, continue on to Lake Louise, often known as the “Jewel of the Canadian Rockies.” Cross the G reat Divide and enter Yoho National Park. Within Yoho, visit such sights as Takakkaw Falls, Kicking Horse Pass, Emerald Lake and the Natural Rock Bridge that spans the Kicking Horse River.
Overnight: Banff

10 July 12
Today travel on one of the most scenic highways in North America - the Icefield Parkway. Visit the Columbia Icefield that covers an area of nearly 325 sq km’s and reaches a depth of 250 - 320 metres. Time allows for an included I ce Explorer ride on the Athabasca Glacier. Along the way stops will be made at the Crowfoot G lacier, Peyto and Bow Lakes. Overnight Banff

11 July 12
This morning you will transfer by coach to Calgary Airport will take you to the airport where you will depart on your overnight flight back to the UK

12 July 12 Arrive UK