This easy 3-kilometre trail through Kootenay National Park to see the historical Paint Pots is the perfect introduction to snowshoeing. You'll hike along a snowy forest path to the Paint Pots, a cultural treasure, with an option to try tobogganing on a crazy carpet slide. This small-group tour includes round-trip transportation from Banff, snowshoes, hot chocolate and a uniquely Canadian treat - hot maple taffy made in the snow by your guide.
Inclusions & Exclusions
✔ Small group size (up to 12 guests per guide)
✔ Professional guide
✔ Hot chocolate and a maple taffy treat
✔ Return transport from Banff
✔ Snowshoes
✔ Pick up from the public bus parking located behind the Mount Royal Hotel.
✔ Hiking pole
✖ Gratuities
Departure & Return
Departure:
,
All guests must wait at the public bus parking located behind the Mount Royal Hotel at 138 Banff Ave.
You must be ready 5 minutes prior to the 1:12pm departure time.
Return: End right where it started.
Itinerary
1
Kootenay National Park
You'll hike on an easy trail along a bridge across the frozen Vermilion River and and along the snowy path winding through a forest of pine trees to the fascinating Paint Pots, which are mineral deposits once used by First Nations people for rock painting. Along the way you will hear stories from your friendly guide of Banff’s indigenous people, explorers and fur traders who lived in and traveled through the Rockies.
After having a go at the crazy carpet slide down the hill (if you wish!) your guide will share hot chocolate and make a sweet frozen dessert in the snow for you to try - delicious maple taffy.
This three-kilometer (1.86 miles) afternoon tour is an excellent trip for beginners as it covers a mainly flat terrain with minimal elevation gain, and also suits anyone wanting a pleasant activity outdoors in the majesty of Kootenay National Park.
Duration: 2 hours
Additional info
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Minimum age is 8 years.
• Guests should dress in ski wear for this trip including a winter jacket, ski pants, hats, mittens, and warm winter boots.
• All children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by someone 18 years and older.
• All adults must sign a waiver prior to the tour. A waiver must also be completed by the parent or guardian of any child under the age of 18.
