Where does this stargazing tour go?

Your guide picks you up from convenient pickup locations in Canmore, Harvie Heights, and Banff and heads to dark-sky spots tucked away in Banff National Park, far from town lights where the stars really come alive. The exact locations are part of the fun, chosen for the clearest, darkest skies on the night.

Is a telescope provided?

Yes. Telescope use is included, so you can get a closer look at the night sky with your guide pointing out what you are seeing. Just bring your sense of wonder and warm clothes.

Will we see the aurora?

Possibly, but it is never guaranteed, since the northern lights depend on nature and conditions. Winter tends to offer the best odds. Even without an aurora display, the stargazing under these dark mountain skies is well worth the trip.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations for scheduled shared (group) shuttles and tours made at least 48 hours before the scheduled pick-up time will receive a full refund. Cancellations within 48 hours of the scheduled pick-up time are non-refundable. Group bookings for six or more guests require a 7-day cancellation notice. No-shows or failure to cancel a reservation will result in no refund.

Tours

Parks Canada Pass Required

Want to experience the magic of the mountains after dark without venturing out alone? Our experienced guides take care of everything, from finding the best locations to setting up a comfortable base, so you can simply relax and enjoy the adventure.

After pickup in Canmore or Banff, we'll head away from town to several carefully selected mountain locations. This is not a hiking tour, although there is a small amount of easy walking between stops. Once we arrive, we'll set up chairs, inflatable loungers, blankets, headlamps, and hot chocolate or tea. If the skies are clear, we'll also bring out the telescope for a closer look at the stars, planets, and other night sky objects.

Every night in the mountains is different. Some nights bring a sky full of stars, some reveal the Northern Lights, and some offer dramatic clouds, moonlight, or light snowfall instead. Mountain weather is famously unpredictable. Forecasts often change at the last minute, and clear patches can appear even on cloudy nights. That's why we call it an adventure, not a guarantee. One thing is certain though: if you don't go, you'll never know.

Warm layers – mountain nights are cold even in summer; dress significantly warmer than the daytime forecast
Ski jacket
Ski pants are recommeded
Warm hat and gloves
Warm and comfortable footwear
Hand and foot warmers are recommended
Neck warmers
Parks Canada pass
For your safety and comfort, please ensure you are dressed appropriately for mountain weather. Temperatures can drop significantly at night, and Canmore Travel reserves the right to refuse participation to guests who are not properly dressed for the conditions.

White passenger van parked on a road beside trees, with a driver visible through the front window.

Step 1: Pickup

Your guide picks you up from your selected pickup location in Canmore, Harvie Heights, or Banff. Departure times vary throughout the season, as each tour is timed around the hours of darkness, and your exact pickup time is confirmed when you book. From there, your guide takes care of the drive both ways, so you can simply enjoy the journey instead of navigating dark mountain roads.

Dramatic sunset sky with purple clouds over dark mountain silhouettes and a glowing horizon

Step 2: Drive to a Dark-Sky Location

After pickup, your guide heads into the mountains, away from the light pollution of town. Because mountain weather can change quickly, there isn't a fixed route. Your guide chooses the locations based on the conditions that evening, adapting the tour throughout the night to give you the best possible experience.

Telescope silhouetted under a swirling starry night sky above dark trees and an orange horizon

Step 3: Two Hours Under the Sky

Throughout the evening, your guide will stop at carefully selected mountain locations chosen for that night's conditions. At the main stop, we'll set up a comfortable base with chairs, inflatable loungers, blankets, and hot chocolate or tea, giving you time to relax and enjoy the darkness of the Canadian Rockies.

If the skies are clear, we'll also set up the telescope for a closer look at stars, planets, and other night sky objects. Your guide will also surprise you with a fun nighttime activity that has become one of our guests' favourite parts of the experience.

Every night in the mountains is different. Stars and the Northern Lights are always a possibility, but they can never be guaranteed.

Aurora over dark forest with silhouetted trees and a red-lit vehicle on a road

Step 4: Return

Once the evening comes to an end, your guide will drive you back to your original pickup location in Canmore, Harvie Heights, or Banff, leaving you with memories of a night few visitors to the Canadian Rockies ever experienced.

Where does this stargazing tour go?
Your guide picks you up from convenient pickup locations in Canmore, Harvie Heights, and Banff and heads to dark-sky spots tucked away in Banff National Park, far from town lights where the stars really come alive. The exact locations are part of the fun, chosen for the clearest, darkest skies on the night.
Is a telescope provided?
Yes. Telescope use is included, so you can get a closer look at the night sky with your guide pointing out what you are seeing. Just bring your sense of wonder and warm clothes.
Will we see the aurora?
Possibly, but it is never guaranteed, since the northern lights depend on nature and conditions. Winter tends to offer the best odds. Even without an aurora display, the stargazing under these dark mountain skies is well worth the trip.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations for scheduled shared (group) shuttles and tours made at least 48 hours before the scheduled pick-up time will receive a full refund. Cancellations within 48 hours of the scheduled pick-up time are non-refundable. Group bookings for six or more guests require a 7-day cancellation notice. No-shows or failure to cancel a reservation will result in no refund.

Get in touch

Night Adventure with possible Stargazing and Aurora Chasing

What to Expect on the Night Adventure

Step 1: Pickup

Step 2: Drive to a Dark-Sky Location

Step 3: Two Hours Under the Sky

Step 4: Return

Why Guests Skip the Parks Canada Shuttle

What Guests Say About the Night Adventure

Want More Time at the Lakes?

Night Adventure FAQ