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.
Mount Royal Hotel, 138 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1A7, Canada
All guests must wait at the public bus parking located behind the Mount Royal Hotel at 138 Banff Ave. You must be ready at the pick up point at least 20 minutes prior to the tour start time.
This activity ends back at the meeting point.
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
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.