Getting There (and Back)

Transportation, Parking and Pick-up Points and Accommodations

Planning your trip in 2026

Transportation

The nearest international airport is in Calgary. International travellers will need to clear customs and immigration when arriving in Calgary from foreign countries. All visitors to Canada require a passport.

Accommodations

You will need accommodation and meals for the night before the hike (including breakfast on the morning of departure). Reservations need to be made well in advance. Hikers return in the late afternoon to Calgary and, depending on personal travel arrangements, may also need a hotel room for this night.

There are many hotels near the airport, most with a free shuttle bus to/from the airport. Please see Staying There for more information.

Banff, Alberta

Parking and Bus Pick-up Points

There is no parking at the Acclaim Hotel in Calgary (except for the nights you are booked into the hotel). There are long-term parking lots at the airport and there is a free shuttle to the hotel.

The bus pick-up points are as follows:

  • Calgary at the Acclaim Hotel at 6:15 am sharp
  • Other pick-up locations will be determined based on demand

You must notify your Trip Coordinator of your pick-up point at least two weeks before the trip start date (earlier if possible).

On the return trip, the bus will leave in the early-afternoon after hikers return by helicopter and stop at the same locations for drop-off. It should arrive back in Calgary by late afternoon.

Hikers should avoid tight travel arrangements for their continued trip home.

Driving to Donald, BC

You may wish to drive to the trip starting location.

Please notify your trip co-ordinator of your intention to drive.

Driving instructions will be provided.

The departure time at the trip start location is 10:30 am sharp. We depart to the lodge using a helicopter and recommend arriving well before the departure time. If you are late, you will be left behind.