Our first stop - just outside of the beautiful town of Canmore - stretches the legs on a gentle ascent to two crystal-clear, emerald pools nestled beneath a towering limestone canyon. The ideal introduction to the region’s unique geology and vibrant alpine colours. Trail length: 3.5km, with 150m elevation gain.

Stop: 1.5 hrs

We leave the pavement behind for the rugged and beautiful Highway 742 "backroad." This high-elevation gravel route is flanked by many trailheads and offers a true backcountry feel, with several lakeside photo opportunities. We'll stop for lunch at a day use area with a view along the Smith-Dorrien, or at Lower Kananaskis Lake.

Stops: 15 mins (photo stop); 30 mins (lunch stop)

In the afternoon we'll stop at either Wedge Pond or the Widowmaker Rapids, depending on group preference. Wedge Pond is known for its mirror-like mountain reflections and golden larch trees in the autumn, with an easy 1km loop trail that's a photographer’s favourite for its stillness and symmetry. Widowmaker is a flat trail along the bank of the Kananaskis River, found just before we rejoin the highway for the return towards Banff. The trail offers a front-row seat to the rapids below – a popular haunt for local kayakers in the summer.

Stop: 20 mins

Our primary afternoon stop, featuring a 4-6km hike through a forested trail to the tiered cascades of Troll Falls – a local favourite and stunning destination year-round. Time and energy levels permitting, we have the option for a slower, slightly longer return through the open Hay Meadow, following the Kananaskis River through the valley.

Stop: 1.5 hrs – 2 hrs

As we begin our descent toward the foothills, we stop at this expansive reservoir. The contrast between the turquoise water and the rugged front-range mountains provides a final, high-impact vista of the Kananaskis wilderness.

Stop: 15 mins.