Best of Canadian Rockies

Photo Tours and Workshops Fall

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the renowned destinations of Banff, Icefields Parkway, and Jasper, which stand among the most exhilarating locations worldwide for capturing breathtaking landscapes and encountering captivating wildlife. It is an absolute must-see for nature and wildlife photographers. Join us as we venture into these remarkable parks and their surrounding areas during one of the most incredible times of the year.

We will visit the Icefields Parkway which many people consider the most beautiful drive in the world. Photograph rivers, waterfalls, canyons, ponds, mountains and witness the vibrant leaves of aspen and cottonwoods as they show off their fall color.

These two parks are the premiere wildlife viewing areas in North America. Creatures great and small await us at almost every corner. We will be visiting the parks during the rut for elk and moose. This is a great time to photograph great wildlife behavior like courtship, territorial displays, and sparing. The elk will bugle, spar, and herd cows this time of year. Other species that are commonly photographed are big-horned sheep, mountain goats, coyotes, wolves, and bears. The mammals will have their prime winter fur since they are getting ready for the harsh winter ahead. Bird sightings can be very exciting as we will look for trumpeter swans, great grey owls, and other species.

Our itinerary will be planned around recent wildlife activity, lighting, and weather conditions. We need to take advantage of the unique opportunities. Our goal is to see the beauty of the parks and enjoy the autumn tranquility of this great ecosystem.

Group Size:
Our group size is limited to a small group. It is substantially smaller than most other tour companies. This will maximize learning and allow us to get closer to wildlife.

When:
September 18-25, 2024 (Sold Out) Join the waitlist or sign up for next year

Where: Canadian Rockies (Banff, Jasper, Icefields Parkway, and more surprises). The tour will meet in Calgary. There is no need to rent a car.

Note: This tour involves both wildlife and landscape photography. Participants should have a strong interest in both.

Itinerary:

Day 1: 10:30 am: We will meet in Calgary. We will go over safety issues, recent wildlife sightings and behavior. We also will discuss plans, goals and objectives for the upcoming week. We will drive to Banff (Lake Louise area) to check in to the Banff Hotel and head out for sunset followed by dinner.

Day 2-3: We will photograph the incredible wildlife and landscapes of Banff.

Day 4: We will check out of the hotel then drive north to Jasper with several stops along the way. We will drive the Icefields Parkway.

Check in to the second hotel in Jasper. The hotel is walking distance to many shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Day 5 and 6: Photograph several locations throughout Jasper and the Icefields Parkway.

Day 7: Check out of the hotel then drive south back to Banff with several stops along the way. We will drive the Icefields Parkway.

Check in to the hotel in Lake Louise for our last night. Photograph until sunset.

Day 8: Photograph sunrise and early morning light and then return to the hotel before 10 am. We will drop everyone off at the Calgary International Airport at approximately 2 pm. .

Skill and Fitness Level Requirements:
Anyone with an interest in photography from beginner to professional.

The participants should have a love of nature and enjoy the company of other people in a small group setting.

This trip will involve some short hikes from 1 to 3 miles. Some hikes may have slippery or uneven terrain.

Participants should be in good health and self-sufficient.

Participants should be interested in both wildlife and landscape photography.

Price: $6395
Deposit: $500
Balance Due: Six months before start date of tour.

Payment:
Payment can be made by check to Slonina Photography. We also accept credit cards through our online shopping cart.

Cancellation Policy:

What's Included:
The hotels are included in this tour (7 nights stay starting Sept 14). Four nights in Banff and three nights in Jasper. The rooms are double occupancy. If you prefer your own room (single occupancy) it is an additional $400. Please select the Single Room option on the shopping cart if you want your own room.

Gates fees and permits

Professional Instruction on photography and wildlife identification and behavior

After the tour:
You will be invited to Zoom classes exclusive to past tour participants at no additional cost. Topics will be Lightroom, Photoshop, Wildlife Photography and Landscape Photography

Not Included:
Food and drinks is not included. We will visit various restaurants in and out of the park. Each participant will be responsible for their own food tab.

Air travel is NOT included.

Airports:
Calgary International Airport Canada: (YYC)

Testimonials:

About Us:
John Slonina (leader), Jenny Bowlden (co-leader)

Two professional nature photographers who have been photographing for several decades. During the workshop, you will receive information on photography techniques and the natural world. Understanding nature not only increases your appreciation of it but also helps you become a better nature photographer.

We hope you can join us at this incredible place. If you have any questions, please contact us.