Home - Aurora Adventure: The Canadian Rockies & Yukon

From legendary grand hotels and Gold Rush tales to skies alive with dancing auroras, embark on a journey into the wild heart and welcoming spirit of Canada’s Rockies and the Yukon. Chase the Northern Lights beneath star-filled skies, unwind in steamy alpine hot springs, and glide through pristine wilderness on an unforgettable dogsledding adventure.

Meet rescued wolfdogs, savor an elegant mountaintop dinner atop Sulphur Mountain in Banff, and gather for an immersive First Nations feast filled with stories and tradition. Discover rare gemstones, indulge in a guided food tour in Calgary, and experience the timeless elegance of the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.

Each day reveals a new layer of the North’s magic — bold, breathtaking, and truly unforgettable.

Day 1: March 14, 2027

Calgary

You will meet at the Chateau Hotel & Conference Center in Bloomington to take a motorcoach to Chicago O'Hare International Airport to board your flight to Calgary. As you arrive in Calgary, in the province of Alberta, take time to settle in and explore at your own pace. There are no scheduled activities today, giving you time to unwind and get ready for the breathtaking days ahead.

Day 2: March 15, 2027

Lake Louise

Your journey into the heart of the Canadian Rockies begins with an Impact Moment at the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary. Here, rescued wolfdogs find safety, care, and fulfilling lives. Learn about the sanctuary’s mission to promote understanding of wolfdogs and wild wolf conservation during an up-close experience and viewing of these animals guided by passionate experts. After continuing the day’s trek, enjoy free time during a stop in the quaint town of Canmore. This afternoon, arrive at the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a stunning retreat nestled beside the frozen lake and surrounded by towering mountains — the scenery is nothing short of magical, and perhaps the elusive auroras will even make an appearance after dark. Tonight, enjoy the company of your fellow travelers as you dine at one of the Chateau’s acclaimed restaurants. (B, D)

Day 3: March 16, 2027

Banff

Wake up to a postcard-perfect morning in Lake Louise, where the stillness of winter wraps the landscape in quiet beauty. With free time this morning, why not take a walk along the scenic lakeshore? Mid-morning, set off for the charming alpine town of Banff. Enjoy some time in the cozy downtown before learning about a uniquely Albertan treasure. Meet a local ammolite specialist to discover the story behind this rare gemstone found only in Alberta. Later, check into the legendary Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, affectionately known as “Canada’s Castle in the Rockies.” With its grand architecture and storied past, it’s more than a hotel - it’s a destination in itself. (B)

Day 4: March 17, 2027

Banff

This morning, it’s your choice! Lace up your boots for a guided hike through Johnston Canyon, where steel catwalks hug the canyon walls and lead you to frozen waterfalls and dramatic views -OR- enjoy a hands-on bead-working experience led by a member of the Metis community, an Indigenous people with a unique history, culture and language all their own. Enjoy free time on your own surrounded by the snow globe atmosphere of charming Banff. Later today, soar above it all on the Banff Gondola, ascending Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of snow-covered peaks and valleys. At the summit, enjoy a memorable dinner surrounded by alpine beauty, followed by Nightrise, an interactive art experience created in collaboration with the Stoney Nakoda Nation. (B, D)

Day 5: March 18, 2027

Calgary

Back in Calgary after a late morning departure from Banff, dive into the city’s vibrant food scene with a guided tasting tour of Calgary Farmers’ Market West. With your local foodie guide leading the way, sample regional flavors and discover stories behind the ingredients. It’s a delicious way to connect with Alberta’s culture — one bite at a time. Enjoy a free evening as you wish. (B, L)

Day 6: March 19, 2027

White Horse, Yukon

Today, take a flight to Whitehorse, the capital of the Yukon — a land of vast wilderness, rich Indigenous heritage, and gold rush legends. Though it’s Canada’s smallest territory by population, the Yukon’s spirit is anything but small. Larger than many countries, it’s a place where nature reigns and stories run deep. Whitehorse sits directly beneath the aurora oval, making it one of the best places on Earth to witness the northern lights — and tonight, you’ll have your first chance to see them dance across the sky. Bundle up, step outside, and look up. The magic of the Yukon night sky awaits. (B)

Day 7: March 20, 2027

White Horse, Yukon

Today, discover the heart and soul of Whitehorse, a small city with a big personality. Join a local guide for a tour that brings the town’s frontier spirit to life. See the SS Klondike, a grand paddle-wheeler that once ruled the Yukon River, and see the Old Log Church, the city’s oldest building. Along the way, hear stories of “sourdoughs” — those hardy souls who’ve braved a Yukon winter and wear it like a badge of honor. This afternoon, get closer to the wild at the Yukon Wildlife Preserve, where you’ll have the chance to spot native species like musk-ox, elk, and Dall sheep in their natural habitat. Then, unwind in the steamy, mineral-rich waters of the Eclipse Nordic Hot Springs, surrounded by snow-covered forest. It’s a moment of pure Yukon serenity. As night falls, head out once again in search of the aurora borealis. With luck, the sky will come alive in waves of green - an unforgettable spectacle in this land of endless wonder. (B)

Day 8: March 21, 2027

White Horse, Yukon

After a late night seeking the aurora, enjoy a leisurely morning to rest or explore Whitehorse at your own pace, perhaps sipping coffee in a cozy café or strolling along the Yukon River. This afternoon, embrace the spirit of the North with a thrilling dogsledding adventure. Led by an expert musher, glide through the snow-covered backcountry behind a team of eager huskies. It’s an exhilarating, unforgettable way to experience the Yukon wilderness — just as early explorers once did. Tonight, gather at the Kwanlin Dün Cultural Centre, a riverside space that honors the traditions and stories of the Kwanlin Dün First Nation. Share a meaningful meal and connect with the culture of the land through food, art, and storytelling. Later, return to the aurora viewing site for one last chance to witness the northern lights. (B, D)

Day 9: March 22, 2027

Vancouver

Say farewell to the wild beauty of the Yukon as you fly south to the vibrant, coastal city of Vancouver. Nestled between mountains and ocean, Vancouver is a cosmopolitan hub with a laid-back West Coast vibe. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)

Day 10: March 23, 2027

Tour Ends

Your tour ends today. As you return home, reflect on your favorite moments from your journey — from the icy stillness of Lake Louise to the electric skies of the Yukon. (B)

*The northern lights are in the Northern Hemisphere from September through April and are only visible when the sky is clear and free of clouds. Seeing Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed.

B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner

Activity Level 4 - Very Active

You’re ready to seize the day, whatever it may bring. You lead an active life at home (walking, biking, and half or full day hikes are things you may enjoy) and 10,000 steps a day is normal for you. You can handle longer walking tours (more than 3 hours covering 3+ miles at a steady clip) and activities that involve traversing uneven terrain, steep slopes, standing for periods of time, and varying altitudes and temperatures. You don’t mind being on the go with some early starts, late-nights, and full days. You can handle altitudes of 9,000 feet or higher with little to no issue. This level is not appropriate for travelers who use wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility assistance devices.