Ranchland and Prairies Fly Drive Holiday

Day 1 - Arrive in Calgary

Arrive Calgary International Airport and transfer independently to your downtown hotel. Remainder of the day is at leisure for perhaps visiting Heritage Park, the Calgary Tower or one of the many other attractions the city has to offer.

Day 2 - Calgary to Drumheller (135 KM)

Leaving the city and heading east, you pass through the outer reaches of Calgary’s expansive communities and bass into the Badlands – an arid, rocky region displaying the geological and paleontological history of the last 200 million years. This area is one of the largest, accessible dinosaur fields in the world, producing thousands of fossils with new discoveries every year. You may like to independently visit the Royal Tyrell Museum that tells the story of the ancient animals that roamed the lands eons ago. 

Day 3 - Drumheller to Maple Creek/Historic Ressor Ranch (335km)

Today we journey across Alberta over the provincial border into Saskatchewan – the Bread Basket of Canada . Although famous for its near-endless wheat fields, the province is home to a diverse environment of rolling plains, northern forests and waterways . Arriving at Historic Ressor Ranch, the next three days are yours to explore this beautiful landscape on horseback during the day, and spend the evenings living the social life of a Canadian cowboy.

All meals included. Overnights at Historic Reesor Ranch.

Day 4 - Historic Reesor Ranch

The next two days are a time for relaxation, rejuvenation and discovery. For over 120 years, the Reesor family has shared the legacy of ranching in western Canada at this historic Cypress Hills property. Accommodation is in the secluded Cowboy’s Cabin, complete with a private BBQ deck, firepit, air conditioning, and spring-fed water . Delicious meals are served in the Ranch Hall Grill, including hearty ranch-style buffet dinners featuring AAA Canadian roast beef and classic sides.

All meals included. Overnights at Historic Reesor Ranch.

Day 5 - Historic Reesor Ranch

Another full day at Historic Reesor Ranch.

Day 6 - Maple Creek to Regina (311 KM)

The journey today leads farther into the heart of the province past numerous shallow lakes, grasslands and a horizon-filling Big Sky . Arriving in Moose Jaw, you find yourself in what used to be one of the only two major settlements in the province during its formative years . As a result, the cultures of the immigrants that came to the prairies over the last century have left their mark on the buildings and architecture of this small but intriguing town. Explore the Asian influences on the area with a historical tour and re-enactment in the tunnels below the town streets. Afterwards, tour the Heritage Centre of the world-famous Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Afterwards, continue on to Regina for the evening .

Day 7 - Regina to Saskatoon (263km)

A recommendation for travellers to Saskatoon – come with an appetite. The city’s food and drink scene is phenomenal. Start your day with breakfast in the popular Riversdale neighbourhood. A stroll through downtown Saskatoon offers plenty of shopping as well as cultural attractions. Art lovers will enjoy the Remai Modern Art Gallery, which houses the world’s largest collection of Picasso linocut prints, along with nearly two dozen ceramic works by the Spanish master. 

Day 8 - Saskatoon/Wanuskewin Heritage Park

Today visit the spectacular Wanuskewin Heritage Park, known for centuries as 'The Gathering Place”. Six thousand years ago, Wanuskewin echoed with the thundering hooves of bison and the voices of Indigenous peoples from across the Northern Plains. The nomadic tribes who roamed the lands gathered on this site of natural beauty where today visitors can relive the stories of a people who came here to hunt bison, gather food and herbs and escape the winter winds. Walking in their footsteps throughout the incredible interactive displays, you will understand why this site was a place of worship and celebration, of renewal with the natural world and of a deep spirituality. 

Day 9 - Saskatoon to Smoky Lake (511 KM)

Today your journey continues in the heart of Canadian Prairies. As you drive towards Smokey Lake, the landscape will transition from gently rolling plains, fields of wheat, canola, and flax, to the more varied topography of Alberta . Along the way, small towns and rural communities are examples of the area's tranquillity. The forest and small lakes will show that your destination is approaching.

Overnight in Smoky Lake. Hotel Metis Crossing 

Day 10 - Smoky Lake

Know for its Pumpkin Festival and rich Ukrainian heritage, Smokey Lake offers a warm and welcoming destination . Located in a picturesque landscape, surrounded by hills and serene lakes, the town provides a perfect welcoming atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities, like fishing and hiking.

Overnight in Smoky Lake. Hotel Metis Crossing 

Day 11 - Smoky Lake to Jasper (365 km)

The grandeur of the Rocky Mountains awaits! As you drive west into the foothills, the mountains grow in the distance until they are suddenly looming outside every window on today’s scenic drive. Winding your way through the passes and valleys, you arrive in the outdoor-adventure hub of Jasper. This quiet alpine town is home to magnificent lodges and the jumping off point for excursions, tours andother exciting attractions in Jasper National Park.

Day 12 - Jasper

Today is free to spend around this quiet alpine town. Perhaps take in a lunch at one of the many restaurants, or browse some of the local shops. Jasper is renowned as the starting point for days of adventure to be had around the park. You may wish to arrange a Maligne Lake boat cruise or take a ride on the Jasper SkyTram (activities and tours at additional cost).

Day 13 - Jasper to Banff (288 KM)

Drive to Banff via the spectacular Icefields Parkway. We suggest a stop at Peyto Lake, Lake Louise, Columbian Icefield Centre and Athabasca Falls to name a few en route. Enjoy glorious photo opportunities of snowcapped peaks, waterfalls and alpine meadows as you travel this route considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. 

Day 14 - Banff

Make today a day of discovery in Canada’s most famous Rocky Mountain community! The exclusive shops and restaurants that line Banff Avenue bring the tastes and goods of the world to your fingertips. Elk stroll along the wide central boulevards, creating a surreal mix of human and wildlife habitation. Perhaps arrange a visit to Banff Natural History Museum or gondola ride. Or for the more adventurous, try river rafting or a sidecar tour (activities and tours at additional cost). 

Day 15 - Banff to Calgary / End of Tour (125 KM)

Today you descend from the mountains back through the foothills en route to Calgary International Airport in time for your return flight.