Snowshoeing

The Paint Pots is a great introduction to snowshoeing that provides insight into the fur trade and its impact on Western Canada. Along the way hear stories of Banff’s indigenous people, explorers and fur traders who lived in and traveled through the Rockies. Snowshoe on an easy trail through the Vermilion River Valley to the Paint Pots, a cultural treasure within our National Parks.  This trip is on mostly flat terrain and you will have a chance to search for snowshoe hare, moose, and wolf tracks while exploring.  Finally, near the Paint Pots you’ll be rewarded with a unique Canadian treat - hot maple taffy!

Return Distance: 3.0 km
Elevation Gain: minimal

Price

• Adult: 13 years +: $62.00
• Child: 8 - 12 years: $40.00

Departs

• 1:30pm daily

Duration

• 4 hours

Where to Meet

• Hotel pick up and drop off provided from Banff

You will see:

• Tokumn Creek Fire: See the destruction caused by the wildfire that threatened Banff in 2003.
• The Hudson's Bay Point Blanket Jacket:  See the jacket that was used as a trade item between natives and one of the largest trading companies of its time.
• Suspension Bridge: The trail quickly leads to the rivers edge where you cross over the bridge.
• Authentic Trapping Tools: See some of the traps and snares once used by the fur traders and try your hand at snaring a guide!
• Paint Pots: A mineral deposit used by the first nations people as a natural pigment often used for rock painting.

Your Tour Includes:

• Friendly, certified guide
• Hotel pick up & drop off
• Small group size
• Hot chocolate and maple taffy treat
• Snowshoes & hiking poles
• Authentic historical props

Remember to bring:

• Warm clothes, including hats, gloves and warm boots. Ski wear is strongly recommended for this tour.
• Don't forget your camera!

Restrictions:

• Minimum age for this tour is 8 years