Wonder is everywhere in the Canadian Rockies — in the awe-inspiring views, unforgettable adventures and moments shared with loved ones of all ages. And with Rockies Rangers, young explorers now have even more ways to learn, discover and build a lifelong connection to the mountains.
Included with admission, the self-guided Rockies Rangers program invites families to explore Pursuit's Banff, Jasper and Golden attractions in a kid-focused light.
Start by picking up a field guide, with three recommended age ranges available. Then help your child complete their wildlife orientation and take on fun challenges to earn a unique badge at each location. Filled with games, activities and more, the guide helps kids discover the wildlife, landscapes and stories that make each destination unique.
At the end of your visit, your child can share their work with a team member and take part in a special badge ceremony.
Tip: Some attractions also include one free child admission with each adult ticket purchased — just look for and select the "Family Experience" option at checkout.
Here’s how the Rockies Rangers program comes to life at each location.
Aurora, the Banff Gondola Rockies Rangers grizzly bear ambassador, invites kids to experience Sulphur Mountain from a whole new perspective. Families can take a self-guided tour of the interpretive centre to learn more about the gondola's history, local wildlife, culture and geology. There are plenty of interactive displays (and even a theatre) to keep kids entertained.
Next, stroll along the one-kilometre boardwalk for panoramic mountain views — see if everyone has enough energy to reach Sanson’s Peak. Refuel with kid-approved food options at the Northern Lights Alpine Kitchen before you ride back down the mountain.
Family Experience: Kids go free during the first two hours of the day at the Banff Gondola. Learn more
Climb aboard an adventure on the largest lake in Banff National Park. Lake Minnewanka is home to mystery, fascinating local characters and even a sunken village — all of which provides captivating material to keep kids entertained during the one-hour Junior Explorer Cruise. Designed with curious young explorers in mind, this highly interactive tour is a great fit for children ages six to 12.
Led by an expert guide and captain, your child will receive a journal and a treat to top it all off. During the cruise, you can help them complete the challenges in their Rockies Rangers field guide and claim a badge featuring Tilly, Lake Minnewanka’s playful lake trout.
Family Experience: Receive one free kids’ admission for every adult ticket purchased. Learn more
Hit the open road with your crew and dive into Banff’s storied past with Billy, the friendliest bighorn sheep in town and the Rockies Rangers ambassador for Open Top Touring. These vintage-inspired tours give history a modern twist in custom-made vehicles that look and feel straight out of the 1930s (with some contemporary amenities, of course).
The fully open-top roof (weather permitting) allows for unparalleled views of Banff’s stunning scenery and landmarks, and a guide in period costume leads the adventure with stories about the people and places that made Banff the landmark it is today. The tours create a fun, engaging way to explore Banff and its history, whether it’s your family’s first visit or you’re well-acquainted with the Canadian Rockies.
Explore the quiet wonder of Maligne Lake with Melvin, a noble bull moose. The Maligne Lake Classic Cruise is a gentle excursion on the sparkling glacier-fed lake. Challenge kids to spot wildlife and other sights as you cruise to the world-famous Spirit Island. Your expert guides will enhance the experience as they share their knowledge of local geology, wildlife and history.
Trying to fit more into your day? This cruise offers multiple departures each day, making it an easy fit for busy family itineraries.
Molly, the Jasper SkyTram’s curious marmot, is ready to connect young visitors with a world of high-alpine adventure. Your family will soar to the top of Whistlers Mountain, where you can explore boardwalks, take in panoramic views and refuel with mountaintop dining at the Summit Café. Along the way, your knowledgeable flight guide will share stories, point out notable sights and help make the ride engaging for all ages.
Family Experience: Visit during the first two hours of the day and receive one free child admission with every regular-priced adult ticket. Learn more
Skip, the Columbia Icefield’s nimble and fearless mountain goat, is ready to introduce kids to the ancient glacial landscape. The journey to the Columbia Icefield along the famous Icefield Parkway is jaw-dropping — you’re unlikely to hear any cries of “Are we there yet?” — and your destination is even better.
An experience the whole family will love, you’ll climb aboard a towering all-terrain Ice Explorer vehicle and travel to the 10,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier. The tour concludes by visiting the glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk for an unforgettable stroll beyond the cliff’s edge, taking in the expansive views of the Sunwapta Valley below and beyond.
Family Experience: Receive one free child admission with every regular-priced adult admission. Learn more
Let Moberly, a majestic golden eagle, lead your family on an adventure above the Columbia Valley. The Golden Skybridge is home to Canada’s highest suspension bridges (130 metres above the canyon floor, to be exact). But there’s even more to discover beyond the upper and lower bridges. Built-in play spaces, including a playground with mini bridges and the new Eagle Net Park, give everyone room to recharge between adventures.
Thrillseekers and older kids will love the Railrider Mountain Coaster, too. The coaster winds through the lush forest, careens along the canon edge and dives down a mountainside for a truly unforgettable ride, all included with your Adventure Pass.
Make your family adventure even more memorable with the Rockies Rangers program, and collect all the badges available across the Canadian Rockies.
About the author: Meaghan Baxter is a writer and photographer based in Calgary, Alberta. Her career began in print journalism before transitioning to tourism marketing, where she shared Alberta's stories with the world. She now runs her own writing and photography business full-time. When she isn't working, you can find Meaghan exploring with her husband, young daughter and puppy. Follow her on Instagram at @meaghan.baxter.photo or connect with her at meaghanbaxterphotography.com.
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