Day 1: Arrive in Calgary and pick up your rental car at the airport. Nestled between the banks of the Bow River and the foothills of the majestic Rocky Mountains, this dynamic city is home to the renowned Calgary Stampede and boasts a unique western heritage.
Overnight Calgary
Day 2: Travel south to Fort MacLeod, a vibrant community at the crossroads of South West Alberta. Marvel at the architecture along historic Main Street and discover Canada's history at the Fort Museum of the North West Mounted Police. Visit Fort Whoop-Up, a replica of an American Fort built in the 1800's to profit from the whisky trade. Continue on to Head Smashed-In Buffalo Jump; discover the Blackfoot culture and witness a colorful native dance. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the oldest and best-preserved buffalo jumps in North America.
Overnight Lethbridge
Driving distance: approx 200 KM's
Day 3: Continue onwards to Writing-On-Stone Provincial Park. Decipher the meaning of ancient Native Petroglyphs and explore numerous archaeological sites. Drive to Cypress Hills and check in at Reesor Ranch. This authentic, fifth generation working ranch offers lovely Bed and Breakfast accommodation set amidst the spectacular Cypress Hills.
Overnight Cypress Hills
Driving distance: approx 250 KM's
Day 4: Cypress Hills is located in the heart of Canada's Great Plains and is the nation's only Interprovincial Park. Embark on a nature trail surrounded by forest or join an interpretive program to discover the unique ecological features of this region. (B)
Overnight Cypress Hills
Day 5: Depart early this morning and head east to Moose Jaw. This charming town abounds with restful green spaces and walking trails, and its genuine hospitality keeps visitors returning time after time.Tour the "Tunnels of Moose Jaw", a myriad of underground caves beneath the city streets featuring theatrical guides recounting the town's fascinating history. Visit the luxury Temple Gardens Mineral Spa, featuring Canada's largest therapeutic Geo-Thermal Mineral Water rooftop pool, a Leading Spas of Canada treatment facility. Be revitalized while enjoying the warm atmosphere of one of Western Canada's most popular mineral spa resorts. (B)
Overnight Moose Jaw
Driving distance: approx 350 KM's
Day 6: Drive the short distance to Regina, home to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police's only training facility. Named after the Latin word for "Queen", Regina boasts an exciting blend of modern building designs with early brick and stone architecture that reflects the city's humble beginnings. Explore Wascana Centre, one of North America's largest urban parks, housing the Saskatchewan Legislative Building and the Mackenzie Art Galley.
Overnight Regina
Driving distance: approx 50 KM's
Day 7: Depart Regina and travel north to Saskatoon. The province's largest city is located on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River and is treasure in Canadian history. Check in at the Delta Bessborough, Saskatoon's most distinguished landmark.
Overnight Saskatoon
Driving distance: approx 250 KM's
Day 8: Saskatoon is located at the centre of Canada's "Wheat Belt" and lies at the boundary where the plains meet the Canadian Shield. Discover the city's history at the Meewasin Valley Centre or explore the Nutana/Broadway shopping area, featuring some of the oldest buildings in Saskatoon. The riverside University of Saskatchewan campus contains great architecture and several museums.
Overnight Saskatoon
Day 9: Travel to Riding Mountain National Park. Upon arrival you will check in to your accommodation at Riding Mountain Guest Ranch for a three-night stay. Meet your Naturalist Guide, Dr. Jim Irwin, and enjoy a welcome dinner. A bear-watching tour will be provided this evening.
Overnight Riding Mountain Guest Ranch
Driving distance: approx 450 KM's
Days 10 and 11: Join your guide on daily, fully-commentated wildlife-viewing safaris and nature forays. You will have an excellent chance of seeing these secretive forest-creatures close-up from the comfort of a special viewing blind. The black bears of Riding Mountain are renowned for their many color phases - keep an eye out for blonde, taupe, cinnamon, red or chocolate bears. You may even spot a mother bear with cubs! The park is home to a bison herd as well as moose, elk, deer, coyotes, timber wolves, and Bald eagles.
Mid-day periods are free to use the recreational facilities at the ranch, such as hiking trails, canoes and kayaks,. Time permitting, transfers to the charming townsite of Wasagaming will be provided. Visit beautiful Clear Lake and wander through the unique shops. (B,L,D)
Overnight Riding Mountain Guest Ranch
Day 12: Drive east to Winnipeg and check in at the centrally located Hotel Fort Garry for check in. This prestigious landmark is one of Winnipeg's most recognized buildings, and stands as a historic symbol of the city. (B)
Overnight Winnipeg
Day 13: Enjoy a day exploring the gracious prairie capital; visit the historic Forks area at the junction of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers, tour Assiniboine Park, one of North America's largest green spaces, and drive along the affluent River Road. (B)
Overnight Winnipeg
Day 14: Your tour concludes upon return of your rental vehicle at the Winnipeg Airport this morning. (B)
