Banff Snowshoeing Tour to the Paint Pots

An easy guided snowshoeing tour to see the historical Paint pots in Kootenay National Park.

This 3-kilometre trail through Kootenay National Park is the perfect introduction to snowshoeing near Banff. Following your professional guide, you’ll snowshoe on a trail that crosses a bridge across the frozen Vermilion River and along a snowy path winding through a forest of pine trees to the Paint Pots, a cultural treasure within the National Park.

You’ll learn about the history of the fur trade its impact on Western Canada as you are exploring the fascinating Paint Pots, which are orange ochure mineral deposits once used by First Nations people for rock painting. Throughout the snowshoeing tour, your guide will also tell you stories of Banff’s indigenous people and explorers who traveled through and lived in the Rockies.

Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a uniquely Canadian treat: hot maple taffy poured into snow to make a sweet frozen dessert. Plus, as the maple taffy is being made, try a crazy carpet slide down the hill. Both adults and kids alike love this part of the tour!

This Snowshoeing Tour is a great tour for those new to snowshoeing. The tour covers a mainly flat terrain with minimal elevation gain and is ideal for anyone wanting a pleasant activity outdoors in the majesty of Kootenay National Park.

Tour highlights:

• See the bubbling natural pools of the Paint Pots.
• Experience snowshoeing along an easy winding forest trail.
• See a Hudson's Bay Point Blanket Jacket that was used as a trade item between natives.
• Taste maple taffy poured in the snow by your guide.

Duration:   4 hours

Walking distance: 3 km

Season: December - April

What's included:

• Certified guide
• Snowshoes and hiking Poles
• Hot Chocolate and a maple taffy snack
• Transportation from Banff to Kootenay National Park
• Pick up and drop off from most hotels in Banff.

Need to know:

• Minimum age for participation is 8 years.
• All children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by someone 18 years and older.
• A waiver must also be completed by the parent or guardian of any child under the age of 18.
• All adults must sign a waiver prior to the tour.
• Please be prepared for mountain weather. Dress in full ski wear including thermals, a sweater, a winter jacket, snow pants, a hat, gloves, and winter boots.
• Small group size (up to 12 guests per guide).

Whether you are looking for a unique experience gift idea or fun things to do in Banff in winter, the Snowshoeing Tour to the Paint Pots is the way to go.

This Snowshoeing Tour to the Paint Pots takes place at Banff, Alberta. VIEW MAP

How To Book Your Experience