The hike starts on the Kootenay Plains along the North Saskatchewan River before taking us along the Siffleur River. A short uphill section takes us to the top of the canyon where platforms allow us to get great views mount Ernest Ross and the first set of falls on the Siffleur River. The area is particularly dry, making it a great option for a winter hike.
After the hike we're heading out to Preacher's Point out for a short icewalk on Abraham Lake. The now famous methane bubbles make the perfect spot to end the day, enjoying a cup of hot chocolate surrounded by the snow covered mountains.
Lunch, hiking poles, snowshoe rentals (if needed), ice cleats and a professional guide are all included. We offer transportation from Red Deer, Rocky Mountain House and Nordegg or you can meet us at trailhead.
Your Adventure
Highlights
- Experience David Thompson Country in its most magical season.
- Discover one of the most popular waterfall and canyon in the area.
- Enjoy the peace and quiet of the mountains, away from the crowds.
- Learn about the natural and human history of the area.
Perfect for: Anybody looking for a fun day playing outside. No prior snowshoe or hiking experience required.
Tour Overview
- Activity: Winter Hiking / Snowshoeing
- Difficulty: Easy / Moderate
- Hiking Distance: 8 km
- Elevation Gain: ~70m
- Duration: 5+ hours
- Departure: Red Deer, Rocky Mountain House, Nordegg or Abraham Lake
The Experience
The Kootenay Plains
Very little snow falls here compared to the nearby Icefields Parkway, making the area a very attractive winter habitat for elks, deers and other animals. Indigenous groups and David Thompson have wintered in the area. In the early 1900's Tom Wilson used his ranch on the plains to winter the horses used for tourists in Banff during the summer months.
Today the area's fragile ecosystem is protected as an ecological reserve, the second highest level of environmental protection in the province.
Winter Hiking
Depending on the conditions, you'll be using snowshoes or ice cleats for this adventure. Either option will give you great traction on the trail.
Your guide will share a few tips along the way to help you fall in love with winter.
The Canyon, Frozen Waterfalls and Scenery
Closer to us, the deep canyon with viewing platforms takes your breath away. The first glance comes as the trail meanders from the forest to the edge of a V shaped canyon. From there the canyon narrows and the edges more ragged as we make our way from one viewing platform to another.
At the end of the canyon rest the frozen waterfalls and our destination for a lunch break.
The Food
After the hike enjoy a cup of hot chocolate along with housemade marshmallows and graham crackers.
Curious about the food? Stop by our Basecamp + Cafe in Red Deer to find out more.
The Ice Bubbles
Using the same ice cleats you used on the hike, you'll get to explore the area, hunting for bubbles. Don't worry, your guide knows the best and safest spots to check out.
The bubbles are usually visible from late November to mid-March with the best time to visit being January. Even when they are not visible, the area makes for a great stop with amazing views of Ex Coelis Mountain and quirky ice features.
2018/19 Rates
- $110 per person - transportation included
- $95 per person - meet at the trailhead option
Guides, snacks, snowshoes, ice cleats and activities are all included. Transportation is available from Red Deer, Rocky Mountain House and Nordegg or you can meet your guide at the Siffleur Falls Staging Area.
The Explorer Pass
Private and Custom Tours
Prefer to head out with just your friends on the tour? All our adventures are available as private tours and can be customized just for your group.
This itinerary is available on your schedule starting at $85 per person.
The Details
When and where does the tour start?
- Red Deer: 7:30 am at Pursuit Adventures' Basecamp + Cafe. Get Directions >
- Rocky Mountain House: 8:30 am at the Visitor Information Centre. Get Directions >
- Nordegg: 9:30 am at the Shell Gas Station. Get Directions >
- Meet at the trailhead: 10:30 am at the Siffleur Falls Staging Area. Get Directions >
Return time varies based on the group and conditions but expect to be back by:
- Trailhead: 3:30 pm
- Nordegg: 4:30 pm
- Rocky Mountain House: 5:30 pm
- Red Deer: 6:30 pm
The itinerary may change without notice due to the weather and other factors. Our goal is to always provide the best possible experience.
What do I need to bring?
Required Items
- Winter boots
- Appropriate clothing for the weather including long underwear
- A winter jacket and snow pants
- An extra sweater
- Tuque and gloves
- A water bottle
- A small backpack
Recommended Items
- Sunglasses
- Camera
- Comfy shoes for the drive home
What's Included?
- We provide hiking poles, ice cleats and snowshoes (as required) at no charge for this tour.
- A professional guide.
- Gourmet lunch and hot chocolate.
- Guides carry emergency equipment, including first aid kits and cell phone or satellite communicators on all tours.
What's Not Included
- Appropriate clothes and footwear for the weather conditions.
- Water bottles, camera and backpack.
What kind of lunch is included?
- Veggie sandwich (hummus, lettuce, tomato, cucumber and green pepper on a Montreal style bagel),
- Montreal Smoked Bison sandwich (Big Bend smoked bison, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato and green pepper with BBQ sauce on a Montreal style bagel) or
- Honey maple turkey sandwich (honey maple turkey, Boursin cheese, lettuce, tomato, cucumber with deli mustard on a Montreal style bagel).
Lunches also include a juice box, veggies and dip, fruits and dessert.
Hot chocolate is available with dairy or soy milk. Tea is available as well.
Please make sure to mention any dietary requirements when you book your adventure and we will try to accommodate whenever possible.
What kind of transportation is provided?
Is transportation available from Lake Louise?
What's the difference with the other ice bubble tours?
The ice bubble stop on this tour is to one location for approximately 30 minutes. Our other ice bubble tours include multiple longer stops at various locations along Abraham Lake.
What's the group size?
This tour is recommended for those 8 or older.
What are the terms and conditions?
Advance Booking
This tour requires bookings to be made at least 2 days prior to departure. Please contact us at (403) 986-6190 for a last minute booking.
Cancellation Policy
All bookings are non-refundable but we will offer you a credit for a future adventure if you cancel a minimum of 72 hours prior to departure.
Waiver
Waivers are required for all participants.You can review the waiver here.
Please review our complete terms & conditions prior to booking.
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A Few More Things To Know
Need help with your booking or have a few more questions? Stop by our Basecamp + Cafe or give us a call at 403 986-6190.
Pictures
Come For A Visit
We're located in Capstone at Riverlands, near the trails of Waskasoo Park and Downtown Red Deer. Stop by to plan your next adventure, rent the gear you need and grab a bite with friends.
While you're in the neighbourhood make sure to check out some of our great neighbours like Wild Brewing Co, Purearth Organics, DOSE Coffee and Troubled Monk Brewery.
You'll find us at #10 5579 47 Street in Cronquist Business Park.
Hours
- Monday: 8 am to 4 pm
- Tuesday: 8 am to 4 pm
- Wednesday: 8 am to 4 pm
- Thursday: 8 am to 4 pm
- Friday: 8 am to 4 pm
- Saturday: Closed
- Sunday: Closed
We're open for check-in 10 minutes prior to departure for all tours.