Timeless Canadian Rockies Tour
19-26 January 2025
Embark on the ultimate adventure with our winter photography and workshop tour of the Canadian Rockies. Join us as we journey through epic surroundings, capturing the awe-inspiring vistas from towering mountain peaks to serene frozen lakes adorned with mesmerizing methane bubbles. Feel the adrenaline as you witness ice climbers bravely conquer the challenge of a frozen waterfall, adding an electrifying dimension to our unforgettable expedition. Come, be part of an experience that will not only ignite your passion for photography but also leave you with cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Itinerary
Day 0: Before 19 January
As our tour commences early on January 19th, we suggest arriving on Jan.18th to ensure you're ready for the start of the tour. We'll provide a recommendation for a hotel where you can make your own booking. Our arrival airport is Calgary International Airport (YYC). To those who booked our one-day Wildlife ( Snowy Owl) and Minimalist Landscape optional tour in Calgary, please arrive anytime on Jan. 17th since this tour will commence early morning on Jan. 18.
Day 1: 19 January
At around 9 am in the morning, we'll depart from Calgary and make our way to Nordegg. Upon arrival, we'll check into our accommodations in Nordegg before heading out to capture the mesmerizing sunset at Preacher’s Point.
Day 2: 20 January
Begin your day with the breathtaking sunrise at Preacher’s Point, capturing the first light as it illuminates the landscape. Then, venture out to photograph a frozen waterfall during the day, immersing yourself in the beauty of the icy cascade. As the day draws to a close, witness the enchanting sunset at Belly of Abraham, where the sky is painted in hues of orange and pink, creating a perfect backdrop for your final shots of the day.
Day 3: 21 January
Begin your day with the stunning sunrise at Belly of Abraham, capturing the first light as it casts a golden glow over the landscape. After enjoying this magical moment, we'll check out from our hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Emerald Lodge for check-in. During the day, we'll explore and photograph the majestic Natural Bridge, taking in its awe-inspiring beauty. As the day progresses, we'll capture the vibrant colors of the sunset at Emerald Lodge before transitioning into night photography at Natural Bridge, where the stars illuminate the darkened sky, creating a truly mesmerizing scene.
Day 4: 22 January
Begin your day with the tranquil beauty of the blue hour and sunrise at Emerald Lake. Afterward, we'll check out and embark on a scenic drive to Banff, where we'll check in to our accommodations for the next three days. In the evening, we'll head to Vermillion Lake to witness the vibrant colors of the sunset dancing across the water's surface. Finally, we'll conclude our day with captivating night photography at the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, capturing its majestic presence against the starry night sky.
Day 5: 23 January
Start your day with a sunrise shoot at Policeman’s Creek, where the majestic Three Sisters mountain range provides a stunning backdrop. After capturing the morning light, we'll move on to photograph Morant’s Curve, known for its picturesque view of the railway winding through the mountains. As the day progresses, we'll journey to Castle Mountain to witness the enchanting sunset casting its warm hues upon the rugged landscape. To conclude our day of exploration, we'll engage in exhilarating night photography, capturing the daring ice climbers as they conquer the challenge of a frozen waterfall, adding an extra layer of excitement to our photographic adventure.
Day 6: 24 January
Begin your day with the sunrise at the iconic Lake Louise, where the surrounding peaks are bathed in the soft morning light. Afterward, we'll venture to Johnston Canyon to photograph the lower waterfall, capturing the beauty of nature in its cascading splendor. As the day unfolds, we'll spend the afternoon and evening capturing the stunning landscapes of Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake, with their crystal-clear waters reflecting the vibrant colors of the sky during sunset.
Day 7: 25 January
Begin your final day with sunrise at Vermilion Lakes, capturing the tranquil beauty of the morning light. Following this experience, we'll check out from our accommodations and commence our journey back to Calgary. Upon arrival, we'll check in at the Acclaim Airport Hotel, marking the end of our tour. You can schedule your departure flights for late afternoon, evening, or even the next day, as the hotel in Calgary is included in the tour, providing you with the flexibility to plan your onward travel arrangements according to your preferences.
Day 8: 26 January
Departure day, you have the flexibility to choose any time for your departure, allowing you to plan your schedule according to your preferences.
For those who have booked the optional Owl and Canadian Prairies one-day photography tour, it begins early in the morning on January 26th and ends after sunset. Departure flights for these participants can be booked for late evening on January 26th or the next day. Please note that hotel accommodations for the evening of January 26th are not included in the tour fee.
Details
Maximum Number of Participants
Cost
Inclusive of accommodation (twin sharing) during tour proper, transportation, drivers including guide and workshop fee. (EXCLUSIVE OF AIRFARE COSTS AND FOOD).
Reservation Deposit
Single Occupancy Fee
Cancellations
Deposit is fully refundable if canceled 30 days before the start of the tour, in the event of a government pandemic travel restriction, this 30- day rule will be waived.
Any amount paid in excess of the deposit is fully refundable at any time.
All cancellations must be made by a formal email request.
Photography Skill Level
This workshop is suitable for all levels of photography skills from novice to expert.
Classroom Time
We will split our time between classroom and field work.
Fitness Level
Light to moderate hike to reach some of the locations.
Airports
Begin: Calgary International Airport (YYC)
End: Calgary International Airport (YYC)
Currency
USD
Power Requirements
US Outlets 110V
WiFi & Mobile Signal
Wifi is available in our hotels. Mobile coverage is spotty in places. You can buy a prepaid local sim with data access if needed.
Drones
TBA
Travel Insurance
Workshop Cost
Inclusive of accommodation (twin sharing) during tour proper, transportation, drivers including guide and workshop fee. (EXCLUSIVE OF AIRFARE COSTS AND FOOD).
Deposit is fully refundable if canceled 30 days before the start of the tour, in the event of a government pandemic travel restriction, this 30- day rule will be waived.
Any amount paid in excess of the deposit is fully refundable at any time.
All cancellations must be made by a formal email request.
Your Guides for this Workshop
Edwin Martinez
Travel and Nature Photographer
When one speaks of travel and landscape photography at its apex, his name quickly comes to mind. Well known locally and gaining recognition abroad for his ethereal landscape images, his works exemplify landscape photography as a fine art.
A former medical and corporate professional, Edwin has found his niche and true calling in landscape photography. Still imbibed with the commitment and dedication for always achieving his best, these qualities are now his staples, whether he is shooting for clients or himself, mentoring photographers that join him in the tours that he guides in Iceland, Norway, Canada, the American west and other parts of the world or teaching in workshops under Wide Horizon Photo Adventure.
Edwin’s excellence has been recognized by brands that support his projects. By virtue of his acknowledged skill and influence, he has been tapped to field test and help in the launch of a number of new photography gear. His works have graced both local and overseas publications and websites. Edwin’s images surely speak the language that draws attention and leaves an indelible mark of excellence.
Noel Casaje
Travel and Nature Photographer
Noel Casaje is an award-winning landscape photographer who considers himself an avid student of light and its interaction with the natural world. He has a passion for capturing images that resonate with him and scenes that evoke emotions in viewers. His expertise lies in working in low light, where he explores the nuances it creates, transforming scenes from the real to the surreal.
Noel and his photographs have gained recognition in various media outlets. Forbes.com has included him in its list of Top 5 Travel Photographers to Watch Out For. Through his company, Wide Horizon Visuals, he continues to organize exclusive photo tours to some of the world's most unforgettable destinations.
Noel has led groups to explore Patagonia, Lofoten, the Canadian Rockies, Costa Rica, the Italian Dolomites, and nearly all the major American National Parks. He aspires to persist in leading these tours and discovering more exciting destinations in the future.
Recommended Gear
Expected Conditions
During our photography and workshop tour of the Canadian Rockies, prepare for the full spectrum of winter conditions, from chilly to downright frigid temperatures.
Warm Hat
Gloves or Mittens
Base Layers
Down Jacket
Outer Shell
Waterproof Outer
Balaclava
Shorts
Sun Hat
Sunglasses
Sun Block
Hiking Pants
Hiking Boots
Waders or Overshoes
Camera
Full frame or mirrorless system
Lenses
Ultra Wide (i.e 16-35 f2.8)
Mid Telephoto (i.e. 24-70 f2.8)
Telephoto (i.e. 70-200+ f2.8)
Macro (if shooting close-ups)
Extreme Telephoto
(if shooting wildlife) consider an f4 due to weight
Recommended Filters
ND 6
ND 10
Circular Poloarizer
Graduated ND 3 stop - soft and hard
3 stop reverse graduated
Tripod
Preferably carbon fiber for light travel
Laptop
For processing and classroom work