Discover how the Rockies Rangers program transforms seven Canadian Rockies attractions into memorable adventures for young explorers.
“Every adventure starts with one small step,” says Aurora, a friendly grizzly bear who is one of seven Rockies Rangers ambassadors across Banff, Jasper and Golden.
Young explorers under 16 can take that first step by joining the free, self-guided Rockies Rangers program, included with admission at all seven attractions. Start by picking up an age-appropriate field guide, completing a wildlife orientation and taking on fun challenges to earn a unique badge at each location. Filled with games, observation activities and more, the guide helps kids discover the wildlife, landscapes and stories that make each destination unique. At the end of the visit, they can share their work with a team member and take part in a special badge ceremony.
Read on to see how the Rockies Rangers program brings even more fun to every family adventure.
Aurora, the Banff Gondola Rockies Rangers 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, take a 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 Cafe before you ride back down the mountain.
Family Experience: One child can ride free of charge with each regular-priced adult ticket (during the first two hours of the day). Kids under five ride for free but require a ticket reservation.
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. The highly interactive tour is designed for kids between six and 12 years old and led by an expert guide and captain — there’s even a treat waiting. Kids can complete the challenges in their Rockies Ranger field guide during the cruise and claim their badge featuring Tilly, Lake Minnewanka’s playful lake trout.
Family Experience: Receive one free kids’ admission for every adult ticket purchased. Catch the Junior Explorer Cruise twice each day.
Hit the open road and dive into Banff’s storied past with Billy, the friendliest bighorn sheep in town and the ambassador for Open Top Touring. The 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 tour 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.
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.
The cruise is always free for guests aged five and under, and multiple departure times each day make the cruise a convenient activity for busy families.
Milly, the Jasper SkyTram’s curious marmot, is ready to connect young visitors with a world of alpine adventure. Families will soar to the top of Whistlers Mountain, where they can explore boardwalks, take in panoramic views and refuel with delicious mountaintop dining at the Summit Café. You’ll have a knowledgeable flight guide on board to share stories, point out notable sights and make the ride interesting for all ages.
TIP: Visit during the first two hours of the day and receive one free child admission with every regular-priced adult ticket.
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 not likely to hear any cries of “Are we there yet?” — and your destination is even better.
Take the whole family on the Columbia Icefield Adventure. You’ll climb aboard a towering all-terrain Ice Explorer vehicle and travel to the 10,000-year-old Athabasca Glacier. The experience concludes by visiting the glass-floored Skywalk for an unforgettable stroll beyond the cliff’s edge, taking in the expansive views of the Sunwapta Valley below.
TIP: Receive one free child admission, ages six to 15, with every regular-priced adult admission. Offer valid for bookings before 11 a.m. Children five and under are free at all times.
Join Moberly, a majestic golden eagle, for an adventure high above the Columbia Valley. The Golden Skybridge is home to Canada’s highest suspension bridges (426 feet above the canyon, to be exact). But there’s even more fun beyond the lower and upper bridges. Kids can burn off some energy at the playground (complete with mini bridges) or bounce and play through the treetops at the new Eagle Net Park. Both attractions are included with admission.
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.
Make your family adventure even more memorable with the Rockies Rangers program 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.
Insider tips, inspiration and deals — delivered straight to your inbox.
