Top Alberta Wildlife Watching in 2026

Big mountain views, cool glacial waters, forests, valleys and wildlife: all from the perspective of the river. Great for all ages and perfect for first time rafters, Canmore Raft Tours offers two family friendly river floats leaving right from downtown Canmore. The 1.5hr (round trip) "Townie" leaves five times daily at 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm and 6:00pm from the Canmore Boat Launch, which is only a few minute walk from the shops and restaurants downtown. We are Canmore's only locally owned and family operated float company!

Not all white-water rafting tours are extra exhilarating. Paddle through the dramatic Athabasca Canyon on a half-day white-water rafting adventure from Jasper that takes on fun, family-friendly Class 2+ rapids. You’ll start at the base of Athabasca Falls, then paddle a 7.5-mile (12-kilometer) stretch of river with a certified river guide. This half-day rafting excursion includes all equipment and transport from downtown Jasper, and both morning and afternoon departures are available.

Best of the Best 2026 — Tripadvisor | #1 Tour in Canada | Top 1% Worldwide This is the highest recognition Tripadvisor gives, awarded to less than 1% of experiences globally based entirely on real guest reviews. We also won "One of the Top 20 Experiences in Canada" two years running (2024 & 2025). That's not marketing. That's 3,200+ travelers voting with their reviews. Here is why: ● Local storyteller Guides: Indigenous legends, mountain myths, real stories. Not boring Wikipedia facts. ● We create connections, laughs, and a group that feels like family by lunch. ● We make you look good. Best angles, hidden spots, photos no one else gets. ● Max 24 guests guaranteed. No 50-person buses. Every guest gets real attention Pickup: Calgary, Canmore & Banff See Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Banff Town and much more with premium comfort and excellence service. ⚠️ Moraine Lake operates June 1 – Oct 13 only. Outside these dates, an alternative location is visited. Please check itinerary.

Saddle up for a journey through the celebrated landscape of Banff National Park on this guided horseback riding adventure. Get out of the car and onto the trails of the Bow River or the Spray River and enjoy the area’s beautiful outdoor environment, largely unchanged from the days of the pioneers. This equine-themed odyssey includes a guide, use of a horse, and all necessary equipment. Note: guests must be eight years or older and a maximum of 230lbs (104kg)

Delve deep into the Banff National Park and admire the scenery from the water on this canoe adventure. Paddle along the pretty Bow River and listen as your guide sheds light on centuries of Canadian history and heritage. Watch the riverbanks for sightings of native wildlife, a great activity for the whole family.

Enjoy a guided hike through one of the best known canyons in the Canadian Rockies, Johnston Canyon. Enjoy mountain vistas, waterfalls, and scenic views along the family-friendly, 3-mile (5-kilometer) out-and-back hike. With a local guide, you can enjoy the hike without worrying about route finding or getting lost.

Saddle up and head out on the Rocky Mountain trails in Banff National Park. Explore the area by horseback with your cowboy guide to see the area in a way you can only experience from on the back of a horse. With a guide in the lead and a guide bringing up the rear, your ride will be a safe, fun adventure in the wilderness.

Experience the best of Jasper National Park’s Maligne Valley during this guided day tour. Check out Medicine and Maligne lakes, looking out for local wildlife along the way. Learn about the unique natural history of the UNESCO World Heritage–listed Canadian Rockies from your guide. Enjoy short walks through the beautiful scenery, and choose between a boat ride to Spirit Island (seasonal) or guided hike at Maligne Lake.

Discover Canmore and wander off the beaten path with a guide to show you some of the area’s best hidden gems, share its history, and keep you from getting lost in the wilderness. See forgotten mining towns, walk old wagon roads, and learn all about a side of Alberta that most tourists never will.