Guided Hiking Tours in Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay

Columbia Wild Guides offers private, professionally guided hiking experiences in the Canadian Rockies that balance depth, safety, and refined comfort. From single-day hikes to our luxury 8-day experience, we take care of the logistics so you can be fully present on the trail.

Explore the Canadian Rockies with a local guide.

View the 8-Day Hiking Experience

Explore Private Day Hikes

adventure with intention

For international travelers who value experiences over checklists

Every hiking-focused itinerary is thoughtfully designed and fully handled so you can experience the best of the Rockies’ wild beauty at the right pace—without crowds, pressure, or rigid schedules.

With an experienced local ACMG-certified hiking guide leading the way, you’ll confidently explore both iconic landmarks and hidden gems most visitors never see.

experience overview

Private, Small-Group Canadian Rockies Tours

Gentle

Short walks at a relaxed pace
Wide, well-maintained trails
Minimal elevation gain
Frequent stops, interpretive pacing
Kid-friendly and accessible
Easy

Easy hikes with light elevation
Clear trails with gentle climbs
Comfortable for beginners with basic fitness
Half-day outings
moderate

A solid challenge for most active hikers
Noticeable elevation gain
Rocky or uneven terrain in sections
3–5 hours on the trail
Strenuous

Longer days in rugged alpine terrain
Sustained climbs and steeper grades
Loose rock, scree, or exposed sections
Full-day hikes, requiring good fitness
advanced

Demanding alpine objectives for experienced hikers
Significant elevation gain and long distances
Remote or committing terrain
Variable mountain conditions

choose your perfect adventure

8-Day Luxury Hiking Experience

Introducing the Bow Valley’s only 8-day hiking excursion that features hiking by day and luxury accommodations by night. Explore must-see spots like Lake Louise, Sunshine Meadows, and Ha Ling, plus quieter trails far from the crowds. In the evenings, recharge with gourmet dining and Nordic-inspired spa experiences at our four-star Canmore base.

Key Highlights

Difficulty Level: Moderate to Strenuous Hike
Guide, lodging, introductory dinner at a local fine dining restaurant, all breakfasts and lunches, spa access, private daily and airport transfers, group gear, and permits included
Luxury accommodations at a Nordic-inspired spa and hotel
June through August
Up to 8 people

Explore the luxury trip

choose your perfect adventure

Private Day Hikes

Get a complete mountain experience in a single, well-designed day with our guided hiking tours in Banff, Kootenay, and Yoho National Park. Together, we’ll choose a route that fits your interests, comfort level, and the conditions. Along the way, enjoy a tailored pace, a healthy, locally sourced lunch, and all necessary gear provided.

Key Highlights

Difficulty Level: Gentle Walk to Advanced Alpine Hike (tailored to your group)
Guide, locally sourced lunch, trailside espresso, group gear, and all permits included
June through August
Up to 8 people

Discover day hikes

Why Columbia Wild Guides?

Thoughtfully designed, well-paced private hiking experiences

Led by an experienced, ACMG-certified local guide

Comfort and luxury touches woven into the experience

A focus on safety, depth, and connection with nature

Routes chosen based on variety, scenery, conditions, and group interests

off the beaten path

What Your Fellow Adventurers Are Saying

Testimonials

"Jacob's knowledge of mountains and the area, along with his mountaineering experiences give us full trust and confidence.”

I had such a memorable hike with Jacob over the course of 5 days in Banff National Park. The group size was perfect with four of us. We had a chance to interact on and off the trail, like a drink or dinner after the hike. Jacob's knowledge of mountains and the area, along with his mountaineering experiences give us full trust and confidence. I highly recommend Columbia Wild Guides if you want to explore Banff National Park.

-Montana P. (Thailand)

"Jacob’s deep knowledge of the region and genuine care for his guests set Columbia Wild Guides apart"

Our experience hiking with Jacob in the Rockies was truly exceptional. Despite wildfires near Jasper requiring last-minute adjustments, he guided us through stunning landscapes with ease, professionalism, and a clear focus on safety. What made the trip unforgettable were the thoughtful personal touches—from engaging trail conversations to bike rides to the trail.

Jacob’s deep knowledge of the region and genuine care for his guests set Columbia Wild Guides apart. We would wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking a remarkable and personalized adventure in the Canadian Rockies.

-Katie R

"We have gone on many guided hikes. This was one of the best."

The trip was well planned and adjusted based on the group and weather. Every day was better than expected. Jacob was very patient. He explained what to expect at the start of each hike and shared knowledge about history and area plant and wildlife along the way.

I am slow going downhill due to knee concerns, and he was helpful and taught me some ways to use my poles to make it easier. We have gone on many guided hikes. This was one of the best. I highly recommend Jacob and Columbia Wild Guides. He helped us plan our next trip while we were on this one.

-Lisa F

YOUR GUIDE

meet your guide

Jacob Downie

Columbia Wild Guides was founded by Jacob Downie, an ACMG-certified hiking guide and wilderness first responder, who grew up in the Canadian Rockies and Kootenay Mountains and has been guiding for over a decade. He relies on his deep local knowledge and familiarity with the terrain to lead immersive experiences through Banff, Yoho, Kootenay, and Jasper National Parks.

Jacob combines expertise with storytelling and a deep respect for the wilderness. His trips balance comfort and challenge, inviting guests to experience the mountains in an unforgettable, meaningful way.