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Unique Activities To Do in Our Destinations

Date Published: 2024-03-18
Last Updated: 2024-11-12

Embark on exhilarating journeys through the rugged landscapes of Western Canada and the American Southwest with adventures filled with stunning natural wonders and cultural discoveries. From thrilling Hummer expeditions to excursions to the largest icefield in North America's Rocky Mountains, there are plenty of unique and memorable activities to enjoy. 

If you have free time in your itinerary while visiting one of our destinations, choose to enhance your journey with an unforgettable experience operated by our trusted partners.

Here are some of the best things to do in and near our destinations:

Vancouver

Photo of whale tail breaching the ocean

Photo from Prince of Whales. 

Get up close and personal with the graceful giants of the sea

Departing from Granville Island, minutes from downtown Vancouver, depart onboard a Salish Sea class Catamaran for a fully-guided whale watching & marine wildlife viewing tour. Vancouver’s surrounding waters are home to spectacular marine wildlife; such as Whales, Sea Lions, Otters, Harbor Seals, Bald Eagles, Dolphins, and other marine mammals. Embarking on a whale watching tour provides a thrilling opportunity to witness majestic transient whales as they gracefully navigate the waters in their natural habitat. Prince of Whales tours often see orca whales (killer whales) and humpback whales, but occasionally have spotted gray whales and minke whales. For a tour during "golden hour" you can book their Sunset Whale Watching tour.

Aerial photo of the Capilano Suspension Bridge

Capilano Suspension Bridge, North Vancouver. 

Reach new heights at the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain

From suspension bridges and treetop viewing platforms, to fish ladders and mountain gondolas, this is the ultimate tour for thrill-seekers and nature lovers with Westcoast Sightseeing. Enjoy the ocean, mountain, and cityscape views over the Lions Gate Bridge as you make your way to the adrenaline pumping Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Brave the heights as you cross the 137-metre (450-feet) long suspension bridge to reach the west side of the Capilano river. Enjoy a walk along the Cliffwalk, a gravity-defying cantilevered walkway clinging to the granite cliff high above Capilano Canyon. After leaving the park, you will arrive at the base of Grouse Mountain for a ride to the Peak of Vancouver on the Grouse Mountain Skyridge, the longest aerial tramway system in North America. Meet Grinder and Coola, two orphaned Grizzly Bears who live in the Wildlife Refuge atop Grouse Mountain. On hot days they are often seen taking a dip in the pond or napping in the sun. Your day concludes upon arrival back in Vancouver in the late afternoon. 

Sea to Sky Gondola Suspension Bridge and Observation Deck.

Experience the beauty of the iconic Sea to Sky Highway and Whistler

Escape the city and experience the wilderness of British Columbia on this Westcoast Sightseeing full-day tour to Whistler, British Columbia. Tour along the Sea to Sky Highway, rated by Condé Nast and National Geographic as one of the top 10 drives in the world thanks to its stunning views of snowcapped mountains and the adjacent Howe Sound coastal fjord. Stop at Shannon Falls Park for a short stroll through the woods to a viewing deck where you can feel the mist of the third highest waterfall in British Columbia. Continue to the Sea to Sky Gondola where you will ascend the mountain for unparalleled views and a walk along the 100 meter (328 foot) Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. Conclude your journey up the Sea to Sky Highway upon arrival in the Whistler Village. Seek out adventure or spend time strolling the village before stepping back onboard for your return journey to Vancouver. 

Banff

Lake Minnewanka, Banff National Park.

Cruise on Lake Minnewanka

Feel the fresh mountain area, watch for wildlife, and cruise on Banff's largest lake with a variety of Lake Minnewanka cruise options from Pursuit Collection. Discover the story of Minnewanka Landing as you tour the beautiful valley landscape of Canada's oldest National Park. Choose from one of their acclaimed cruises and explore under the lead of a knowledgeable guide on a heated, covered boat. Alternatively, choose your own course with a kayak, canoe, or motorboat rental. From family-friendly expeditions to cruising with a craft beer in hand, find the right tour for you on Lake Minnewanka. Please note, the start and end of the operating season is weather dependent and may be adjusted based on current conditions. 

Photo from Pursuit Collection.

Uncover Banff's timeless tales and incredible views

From Marilyn Monroe to Teddy the tourist-greeting bear, Banff has played host to legends of all stripes and species over the years. In this Open Top 90-minute adventure around Banff and through the decades, you’ll hear the true tales of unbelievable characters who helped make the mountain town the world-class destination it is today. Along the way, expect awe-inspiring sights aboard our open-air, vintage-inspired vehicle enroute to stops at Surprise Corner, Vermilion Viewpoint, Tunnel Mountain and Mount Norquay Viewpoint. Bring your camera for alpine photo-ops and kick back as our guides regale you with the stories of Banff’s legendary past.

Moraine Lake, Banff National Park.

Explore stunning lakes and breathtaking waterfalls

Visit some of the Canadian Rockies' most treasured spots with this full-day tour by Pursuit Collection. Venture to stunning lakes and awe-inspiring waterfalls in both Banff and Yoho National Park with a dedicated on-board Host who will tell you about the history and natural wonders of the region. Enjoy stops at three of the most famous lakes in the Rockies - Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake. Lunch will be served at Emerald Lake Lodge as you soak in the jewel-toned colours that gave the lake its name. Additional highlights include a stop at Takakkaw Falls (the second highest waterfall in Canada), Valley of the Ten Peaks, and the Spiral Tunnels. This tour has no shortage of postcard-worthy destinations, perfect for those who want to see the iconic spots the region is known for. Please note, some stops may be unavailable due to seasonality, weather conditions or traffic delays, and will be substituted based on the driver's discretion.

Jasper

Photo of Columbia Icefield Explorer

Ice Explorer on the Athabasca Glacier.

Tour the Columbia Icefield

Travel along the famous Icefields Parkway, surrounded by scenic mountain vistas and local wildlife, to the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre. Step onboard a Pursuit Collection Ice Explorer for an interpretive adventure onto the Athabasca Glacier where you will have the opportunity to walk on the glacier itself and even sip from its streams.  Enjoy unobstructed views on a glass-floored observation platform at the Glacier Skywalk, suspended 918-feet (280m) above rugged and wild terrain of the Sunwapta Valley.  Before returning to Jasper, a hot buffet lunch will be served at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre. Please note, some stops may be unavailable due to seasonality, weather conditions or traffic delays, and will be substituted based on the driver's discretion.

Spirit Island and Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park.

Cruise on Maligne Lake

Experience the spectacular natural treasures of the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies with this Pursuit Collection half-day tour of the Maligne Valley. Discovery the mystery of the disappearing water at Medicine Lake and a scenic cruise on the glacial waters of Maligne Lake to Spirit Island. Maligne Lake is famed for the colour of its azure water, the three surrounding glaciers, and the very famously photographed islet, Spirit Island. It is also the Canadian Rockies' largest natural lake, making it a must-see destination while in Jasper! Please note, the start and end of the operating season is weather dependent and may be adjusted based on current conditions. 

Moab

Moab Adventure Center Hummer climbing sandstone cliff

Photo from Moab Adventure Center.

Climb steep sandstone hills on a Hummer® Sunset Safari

Departing each evening just before sunset from the Moab Adventure Center, a Sunset Hummer® Safari is the perfect off-road adventure. Within minutes of departure you'll be scaling one of Moab's famous redrock fins on your way to an area known as "Hell's Revenge". Weaving in and out of rock canyons, feel the power and confidence of the Hummer as it climbs steep sandstone hills. You will learn about the geology and history of the area and enjoy snacks at the summit of a captivating overlook as the desert sun paints the evening sky. This 3-hour tour will return back to town while the stars blanket the sky above. 

Arches National Park.

Tour Arches and Canyonlands National Parks

Visit Moab's two national parks, Arches and Canyonlands, part of Utah's spectacular Mighty 5 National Parks, with a full-day tour from Moab Express. Enjoy sky-domes and arches, breathtaking grand-canyon like views, and all the geographic wonderment Moab has to offer. This tour requires minimal walking and hiking, providing easy access to these natural wonders. Highlights of the day include Balanced Rock, the Court House Towers, Park Avenue, Delicate Arch viewpoint, Green River Overlook, Grand View Point, Upheaval Dome and more. 

Mounument Valley. Photo from Utah Luxury Tours.

Explore the American Southwest on a 4-day journey to Arizona

Embark on a multi-day tour to explore the beauty of the American Southwest from Moab, Utah to Phoenix, Arizona with Utah Luxury Tours. Over 4 days, you will visit Mesa Verde National Park, Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, and Sedona, Arizona. This tour has no shortage of legendary destinations and activities including a journey on the Grand Canyon Train, a thrilling Pink Jeep excursion, and a wine tour through Sedona's vineyards. Prepare for an unforgettable experience of unparalleled beauty and discovery. 

Salt Lake City

Old Faithful Geyser. Photo by NPS/Jim Peaco

Tour the iconic Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks

Take in the awe-inspiring landscapes of both Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks with a 4-day guided tour from Utah Luxury Tours. Starting in Salt Lake City, enjoy an afternoon at the Teton Village Aerial Tram, a scenic cruise on Jenny Lake in Grand Teton National Park, and time exploring the natural wonders of Yellowstone National Park. Throughout this tour you will visit remarkable scenery, including the famous Grand Prismastic Spring and Old Faithful, the world's most famous geyser. You will learn about the history and geology of the area as well as the flora and fauna along your journey. This carefully crafted experience is perfect for those who want to see remarkable scenery and perfect photo opportunities at every turn. 

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