BANFF
NATIONAL PARK
5 days, 4 NIGHTS
~75 km
Dates: Sun, Aug 23 - Thurs, Aug 27
Early Bird Pricing (Until June 15, 2026): $999 (incl. tax)
Regular Pricing: $1299 (incl. tax)
Skill Level: Advanced
Ages: 18+
Max Group Size: 4 + Guide
Start/Finish: Cascade Lodge, Banff National Park
SCHEDULE
-
Early morning pick-up from Banff accommodation (time TBD)
Transfer to trailhead
Hike from Cascade Lodge to Mount Cockscomb (~7.5 km, ~320 m elevation gain)
Camp set-up, trip overview and safety briefing
Overnight – Mount Cockscomb
-
Hike from Mount Cockscomb to Sawback Lake (~20 km, ~980 m elevation gain)
Overnight – Sawback Lake
-
Hike from Sawback Lake to Stoney Creek (~23 km, ~435 m elevation gain)
Overnight – Stoney Creek
-
Hike from Stoney Creek to Elk Lake Summit (~14.75 km, ~990 m elevation gain)
Distance includes a round-trip hike from Elk Lake Summit Campground to Elk Lake
Overnight – Elk Lake Summit
-
Hike from Elk Lake Summit to Cascade Lodge (~10.75 km, ~350 m elevation gain)
Optional additional hike to Cascade Ampitheatre (adds ~6.3 km and 440 m to journey) – preference to be determined by group
Transfer from Cascade Lodge to Banff
Take on a challenging women’s backpacking adventure through the remote Sawback Range in Banff National Park. This 5-day, 4-night trek is meant for experienced hikers looking for long days on trail, challenge, and a true wilderness experience.
Beginning and ending near Cascade Lodge, the route forms a loop through alpine passes, wildflower meadows, turquoise lakes, and quiet backcountry campgrounds. Along the way, participants will travel through some of Banff’s lesser-traveled terrain, crossing high mountain passes and spending each night in a new area.
Expect significant elevation gain, variable mountain weather, and the satisfaction that comes from earning every view. This trip is best suited for strong hikers with prior backpacking experience who are comfortable with uneven terrain, full packs, and physically demanding days in the mountains.
With a maximum group size of four participants plus guide, this experience offers a supportive environment for women looking to share an unforgettable Rockies adventure.
-
Complete an unreal 5-day backpacking loop through Banff National Park’s remote Sawback Range, covering approximately 75 kilometres
Cross scenic alpine passes with views of peaks, valleys, and glacial landscapes
Travel with a small group (maximum 4 participants) for personalized support and a strong sense of community
Opportunity for an optional hike to Cascade Amphitheatre on the final day if energy and conditions allow
-
Save on fees - Payments sent via etransfer are as priced and will not be subject to the additional 1-2% WeTravel fee at checkout.
This route travels through grizzly bear habitat. Participants must be comfortable hiking and camping in bear country and strictly follow all guide instructions related to food storage, group travel, and wildlife safety.
The guide has completed multiple treks through Banff National Park, but not this specific route.
Weather in the Rockies in late August can be highly variable and may include rain, freezing temperatures, snow, smoke, and wind. Delays, route adjustments, campsite changes, or itinerary modifications may be required for safety.
Distances listed are approximate and may vary depending on campsite assignments, trail conditions, and route decisions made on trip.
Only 3 tent pads have been reserved and therefore trip participants may be required to share a tent with another participant depending on the number of sign-ups.
SHE Ventures is not a corporation. SHE Ventures is a sole proprietorship that focuses on collaborations with other businesses. Therefore do not expect a shuttle to/from the trailhead – it will just be SHE Ventures founder Lauri in her rental or an uber. At SHE Ventures, we venture, and this is part of the fun.
WHAT’S INCLUDED
-
Maximum 4:1 ratio
Certified Wilderness First Aid -
Essential gear and backpack fitting
Water treatment and purification
Food preparation and storage
Bear safety and camp set-up
Hands-on gear demonstration -
Backcountry camping permit (Nights 1-4)
-
Tarp
Stove
Fuel
Kitchen utensils
SOS satellite device/GPS
Signalling devices
Bear spray
First aid kit
Water purification system
Adjustable declination compass
Physical waterproof map
Fire starter
Biodegradable soap
Polycord -
Round-trip ground transportation from Canmore to Mount Shark Trailhead
Download the gear checklist below to see what you need to bring. Checked boxes will be supplied by SHE Ventures.
WHAT’S EXCLUDED
-
Ground transportation to/from Banff (shuttles easily arranged from YYC)
Accommodation in Banff before and after trip
Any affiliated parking fees
-
Lightweight tent
Backpack
*Tents and packs can be rented. Pricing options vary and are included at checkout.
Campers can bring their own 1-person tent if preferred, however, this must be cleared with the guide prior to the trip to ensure that the group does not exceed the number of tent pads. -
Breakfast (day 2-5)
Lunch (day 1-5)
Dinner (days 1-4)
Snacks
Coffee
Tea
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellations made 30+ days in advance of the departure are fully refundable, minus a 5% administrative and Square processing fee. Cancellations made outside of the 30-day window are non-refundable. However, all trips are transferable to another qualified woman aged 18 or older prior to trip departure.
A minimum of 2 participants are required to run this trip. Registrants will be fully refunded if 2+ people have not registered 2 weeks in advance of departure.
