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Adventure Tours   >   North America Adventure Tours   >  Best of Northern Rockies & the Pacific Northwest

Best of Northern Rockies & the Pacific Northwest Adventure Tour

North America

  • Canada
  • United States

Immerse yourself in the many landscapes, animals, and ways of life across western Canada and the Pacific Northwest of the United States on this 14-day adventure. You will travel to three different national parks and witness the deep beauty of some of the world's wildest places. Picture lush green forests, dramatic coastlines, and snow-capped mountains shrouded in mist. From the mesmerizing waters of Lake Louise to an unforgettable sunrise in Mount Rainier National Park, you'll soon fall in love with the western coast of North America.


Highlights  

Visit Banff, Canada's first and most famous National Park, Walk along the pristine waters of Lake Louise and Lake Crescent, Sip local wine in the Okanagan Valley and learn about the local grape varieties, Experience the laid-back west coast vibes of Vancouver Seattle and Portland, Cross the Puget Sound by ferry and watch as the Olympic Mountains appear in the distance, Enjoy a full-day guided experience in Olympic National Park where you'll spend time exploring the Lake Crescent and Sol Duc Valley areas, Travel to Sunrise Point Lookout in Mount Rainier National Park for epic views as the morning light catches the surrounding mountains


Transport  

Private vehicle, ferry, walking.


Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.


About our Transportation  

For this trip we use 15-passenger vans for up to 12 people plus the CEO/Driver. For groups of 8 and more travellers, we also use a trailer to carry luggage. These durable vehicles allow us to drive on most types of roads in North America.

Each van has a front passenger seat and 4 benches that will accommodate 3 people each with mandatory seat belts to keep us secure and safe. No standing is permitted in these vehicles.

This is not a physically demanding journey, but with limited space in the van, long drive days can be difficult. Please take note of the travel times and distances in the above itinerary. There is air conditioning to cool things down on warm days to keep everyone more comfortable. Despite some of the long days, most travellers feel that the diversity of the North American landscape, culture, and wildlife are all well worth the experience!


Solo Travellers  

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.


About Accommodation  

This trip uses comfortable 3 star hotels, lodges and inns, well located in cities or near park entrances. Our chosen hotels vary in size, character, and amenities, but are of a very good standard, and the rooms are double occupancy with a private bathroom.


My Own Room  

Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops


Feedback  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customersolutions@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.


Accommodation  

Hotels (13 nts).


A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.


Max Pax  

12


Minimum Age  

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.


International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.


What to Take  

You will be on the move a lot, so our advice is to pack as lightly as possible.

For days in the outdoors, we recommend the use of lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics made of wool or synthetic fibers. Cotton is not recommended for days spent hiking as it does not allow for heat or moisture to enter or escape, and it will not dry easily once wet.

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. Heavy luggage is not recommended for the health of the CEO, who will take a lead in loading the storage trailer. Due to space in the trailer, we will not be able to accommodate more than one piece of main luggage per person. A good size day-pack (20-35L) is also essential to carry your personal gear for the day, as access to luggage between destinations will be limited. This daypack will be used to carry your personal gear for the day, your lunch and a water bottle.

It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a light jacket. A set of smart casual clothes is also advisable.

NOTE: Mountains in the Canadian Rockies can have unpredictable weather with snow and heavy rain even in Summer time. Spring time could be snowy (until end of June) and fall season could start as soon as mid-August. Make sure you have equipment and clothing for all conditions!


Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.


Meals Included  

10 breakfasts, 1 lunch


Finishing Point Instructions  

Please note this tour ends on arrival into Vancouver. Your flight must depart no earlier than 20:00.


Packing List  

Cold weather:
• Long-sleeved shirts or sweater
• Scarf
• Warm gloves
• Warm hat
• Warm layers

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sturdy water shoes/sandals
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Note: The Pacific Northwest is known for it's rainy, wet environment. Please remember to bring a rain jacket with you.


Tipping  

It is customary in North America to tip service providers such as waiters, bartenders and taxi drivers, at approximately 18-20%, depending on the service. Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip any local guides used. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from $2-8 USD per activity depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.


Also at the end of each trip if you felt your G Adventures Chief Experience Officer did an outstanding job, tipping is appreciated. The amount is entirely a personal preference; however as a guideline $5-10 USD per person, per day can be used as a guide. If your CEO(s) exceeded your expectations, feel free to tip more.


Group Leader  

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout, local guides.


Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.


Joining Instructions  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

From Calgary airport (YYC), to reach your starting accommodation you can take the public Calgary Transit bus, a door-to-door shuttle or a local taxi. Please go to the airport information desk for assistance.?
All transportation is located on the Arrivals/Baggage Claim Level at both International and Domestic Terminals.

WELCOME MEETING TIME: 18:00


Please note that day 1 is an arrival day and no activities have been planned on this day.

Upon arrival to your Joining Hotel (note that check-in time will be in the afternoon), look for a note or bulletin board in the reception with a note from your CEO. This note will give the details of your Welcome Meeting on day 1 (usually between 5pm and 7pm), where you will get a chance to meet your CEO and other travellers, as well as learn more about how the tour will run. If you don't see a note, please ask reception for details!

If you are arriving later and will miss the Welcome Meeting, your CEO will leave a note at reception for you with any information you may need, and with morning instructions for the next day.


Meals  

All included breakfast will be had at the hotel or pre-arranged if there is an early morning on tour. Most other meals will be up to you and this sort of freedom allows you to choose the best options for your personal preferences in all of the destinations.


Arrival Complications  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.


Money Exchange  

The Canadian currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). The United States currency is the US Dollar (USD).

Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in the Canada and US and can be used to purchase small and large items. When purchasing products or services with a foreign credit card in either country, you may be charged additional fees by your credit card company for foreign purchases.

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances but you must remember to bring your PIN number (be aware that many ATM machines only accept 4-digit PINs). Both Cirrus and Plus system cards are the most widely accepted debit cards. Both Visa and Master Cards are the most widely accepted credit cards. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work check with your bank before you travel. A visit to an ATM can be arranged on Day 1 and other days of the trip.

Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of Canadian Dollars as cash (preferably smaller bills, 5s, 10s and 20s) and credit cards is best.

Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com


Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!


Optional Activities  

Tunnel Mountain
- Tunnel Mountain Hike (Free)

Banff
- Cycling (36.75-93.45CAD per person)
- Canoeing (57.75CAD per person)
- Hot Springs Soak (17.32CAD per person)
- Sulphur Mountain Hike

Banff National Park of Canada
- Banff Gondola Ride to Sulphur Mountain (57.75-68.25CAD per person)

Lake Louise
- Lake Agnes Tea House Hike

Whistler
- Whistler Hike (Free)
- Rafting (145.60-196.00CAD per person)
- Peak 2 Peak Gondola Ride (95.20CAD per person)
- Ziplining and Treetop Adventures (155.68CAD per person)

Olympic National Park
- Sol Duc Hot Springs (20USD per person)
- Canoe or Kayak Rentals in Olympic National Park

Sequim
- Lavender Farm Visit
- Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge

Portland
- Portland Bicycle Tour Guided or Unguided

Crystal Mountain
- Scenic Gondola Ride - Crystal Mountain
- Adventure Course - Crystal Mountain

Seattle
- Space Needle
- Chihuly Garden and Glass
- Starbucks Reserve Roastery


Travel Insurance  

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.


What's Included  

Your G for Good Moment: Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre Visit, Whistler
Your Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Foodie Moment: Okanagan Valley Wine Tasting, Kelowna
Your Discover Moment: Whistler
Your Hands-On Moment: Medicine Bag Making Activity, Whistler. Lake Louise visit. Free time in Banff, Whistler, Vancouver, Portland, and Seattle. Olympic National Park visit and guided hiking day. Sunrise Point Lookout in Mount Rainier National Park. Free time to explore in Portland, Crystal Mountain, and Seattle. Orientation walks with the CEO in Portland and Seattle. Ferry ride across Puget Sound. Hurricane Ridge drive and scenic viewpoints stops. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.


Important Notes  

1. TRAVEL DAYS
In order to cover the vast distance in North America to be able to visit several different parks and cities along our trip, we will have a couple of long driving days.

2. HIKES AND WALKS
All walks and hikes proposed by our CEO will be easy to moderate level. You may choose to participate or not, but exploring our national parks on foot is part of our way of travelling. It's a healthy way to discover North America's beauty and landscape.

3. COMBO TRIP
Please note that some trips could be a combination of multiple G Adventure tours. You should expect some group members to join or leave the tour between tour segments.

4. LEGAL DRINKING AGE
Please note that the legal drinking age in the United States is 21 and in Canada, 19 (with Alberta and Quebec at 18). Many bars and clubs will ask for ID at the door, therefore listening to live music in certain bars or spending a night out is not possible when you are under the legal age, even if you don't plan on consuming alcohol. Drinking laws in both countries are strictly enforced and our CEOs are unable to help those under age obtain alcohol of any kind.

While this should not stop those under legal drinking age from booking a tour, it is important to note that if a traveller is under-age there are certain optional nighttime activities that they may not legally be able to participate in. When trying to book the right trip, we recommend that travellers under legal drinking age take this into consideration when booking a tour that visits several big cities.

5. ACCOMMODATION NOTE:
Please be aware that properties we stay in with only two stories may not have elevators installed and climbing the stairs with your luggage will be necessary.


Group Leader Description  

This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders, otherwise known as a Chief Experience Officer (CEO). The CEO will be the group manager, leader and driver - this person is experienced in the routes travelled and will organize and lead the meal preparations and has experience in cooking a variety of local and international dishes for large groups.

As the group coordinator and manager, the aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. While not being guides in the traditional sense, you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. They will also offer suggestions for things to do and to see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.

We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.


Group Size Notes  

Max 12

Day 1 Calgary

Arrive any time.

Day 2 Calgary/Banff

Discover the beautiful town of Banff; opt to view wildlife, take a gondola ride, or hike up a mountain for spectacular views.

With free time upon arrival, Banff has tons to offer. There are plenty of optional activities for all interests and activity levels. It's also just as pleasant to wander the main streets, pop in and out of shops or walk along the river.

Day 3 Lake Louise/Revelstoke

Continue to Lake Louise, view the emerald blue waters of this alpine lake, and opt to hike to one of the Tea Houses.

Lake Louise is that iconic Canadian Rockies locale. Don't miss the chance to snag the perfect photo.

Day 4 Revelstoke/Kelowna

Travel to Kelowna in the Okanagan Valley, stopping for a BBQ lunch at Kaloya Regional Park, then a tasting at a local winery en route. Kelowna has become a foodie haven in recent years - opt to visit one of the many craft breweries in the city this evening.

Day 5 Kelowna/Whistler

Drive through the beautiful coastal mountains to the village of Whistler, one of the locations of the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Day 6 Whistler

Enjoy a free day to explore Whistler. Opt to ride a gondola to the top of the mountain, hike, or zipline.

Day 7 Whistler/Vancouver

Visit the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre and go on an interpretive guided tour of the museum, before participating in a medicine bag making activity. Travel to Vancouver, and spend the afternoon in this beautiful, easy-going city.

Day 8 Vancouver/Sequim

Depart Vancouver after breakfast and drive across the border into the United States where the group will then take a ferry ride across Puget Sound. Arrive in Sequim in the early evening and explore Hurricane Ridge in Olympic National Park.

Climb in the van and drive across the border into the United States. From there, continue south towards Edmonds, Washington and board a boat to cross the Puget Sound. There will be time for lunch on your own either before or after the ferry ride. Cap the day off with a stunning drive along Hurricane Ridge to admire the rising mountains in the distance, and experience a great introduction to the Pacific Northwest. The group will be staying in the city of Sequim; a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and lovers of all things lavender.

Day 9 Olympic National Park

Enjoy a full-day immersed in the unique landscapes of Olympic National Park alongside a knowledgable local guide. Visit both the Sol Duc Valley and Lake Crescent areas of the park, enjoy a few guided hikes, and take advantage of free time to try some of the optional activities available like, renting kayaks or booking a day pass to the hot springs at the nearby resort.

Have breakfast at the hotel before driving to Port Angeles to meet up with our local guide. From here, travel to the Sol Duc Valley area where there will be time to choose between booking a day pass at the nearby hot springs or going on a guided hike to Sol Duc Falls shrouded by a canopy of Douglas Firs and Western Red Cedars. Then, move on to the Lake Crescent area where the group can choose to rent a kayak/canoe, walk the trails near the lodge, or set off on a guided hike to the picturesque Marymere Falls through Lowland, Old Growth forest. Finish the visit with a walk along Elwha River to Madisson Falls. Dinner will be on your own in Port Angeles before returning to Sequim in the evening.

Day 10 Sequim/Portland

Have a slow morning in Sequim to explore the area on your own. Opt to visit one of the nearby Lavender Farms or walk along one of the world's longest sand spits on Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. Arrive in Portland in the late afternoon for an CEO-led orientation walk and a free night on the town.

Spend the morning in Sequim. Opt to visit one of the nearby Lavender Farms or walk along one of the world's longest sand spits on Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. Around mid-morning the group will depart for Portland and drive along the scenic Hood Canal. A stop will be made for lunch on your own and we will make it to Portland in the late afternoon. Set off on a CEO-led orientation walk of Portland and then hit the town for dinner at your leisure, or maybe try one of the many great breweries the city is known for.

Day 11 Portland/Crystal Mountain

This morning explore Portland on your own and opt to join a guided biking tour with a local guide, or you can choose to rent a bicycle by yourself and pedal around the different neighbourhoods. before heading north towards Mount Rainier National Park and the base hotel for the next few days.

Soak up the wackiness of Portland and opt to book one of the optional activities in the area. Grab lunch at one of the many great restaurants or food trucks before driving back north towards Washington and our two-night stay at a resort near Mount Rainier National Park. Dinner will be on your own at one of the restaurants located at the base of Crystal Mountain.

Day 12 Mount Rainier National Park

Witness the stunning (weather permitting) morning light over the wild landscape of Mount Rainier National Park with a truly spectacular 360 degree view of the nearby peaks and thick green forests. In the afternoon, enjoy optional activities back at the hotel property.

Wake up early and depart for the Sunrise area in Mount Rainier to witness the mountains glow orange in the morning light with a truly spectacular 360 degree view from the Sunrise Point lookout. Visit the Sunrise Visitor Centre before returning to Crystal Mountain for a free afternoon. Choose between optional activities like a scenic gondola ride to the top of the mountain where you'll reach the border of Mount Rainier National Park, or perhaps test your fear of heights with an adventure course through the trees. Dinner will be at your leisure at one of the options on the resort property.

Day 13 Crystal Mountain/Seattle

Travel to north to Seattle and enjoy a day sightseeing in the city with your CEO or on your own. Visit sites like Pike Place Market, Olympic Sculpture Park, Seattle Center, and Chinatown.

Enjoy breakfast at a nearby restaurant before the morning departure from Crystal Mountain to Seattle. Upon arrival, set off on an orientation walk with your CEO through parts of downtown. Start with Pier 57 and take time for lunch on your own at Pike Place Market. For the rest of the afternoon you can choose to keep discovering Seattle with your CEO, or you can book one of the available optional activities like, the Space Needle, Starbucks Reserve Roastery, or Chihuly Garden and Glass. Opt for a group dinner together this evening.

Day 14 Seattle/Vancouver

Take advantage of a free morning and continue exploring Seattle on your own. Depart for Vancouver in the early afternoon where your tour will end upon arrival at 5pm.

After a free morning in Seattle, cross the border between the United States and Canada arriving in Vancouver later in the day. We recommend booking post-nights at the Finishing Point hotel to experience more of this lovely west coast Canadian city.

Upon arrival to the Finishing Point hotel in Vancouver, you will need to make your own way to the airport via public transportation or rideshare. Please book any onward travel after 8pm.

Details

Prices from: €5279.00

Duration: 14 Days

Trip Type: Small Group

Service Level: Standard

Merchandising: New Trips

Travel Style: Classic

Physical Grading: 3 - Average



Call Us: 01 2311889



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