THE WAY NATURE INTENDED IT TO BE…
Rummel Lake- Easy- 1 Day
Rummel Lake – A Scenic Alpine Getaway Beneath Towering Peaks
Trip Details:
Distance: 10 km
Elevation Gain: 420 meters (1,380 feet)
Difficulty: Easy
Just outside Canmore in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Rummel Lake offers a peaceful alpine escape with stunning scenery and an approachable route suitable for all skill levels. Surrounded by the towering peaks of Mount Galatea, Mount Nestor, and The Tower, the lake is set against a backdrop of rugged rock faces that adds to its dramatic and untouched beauty.
From spring through fall, the area bursts with colorful wildflowers in early summer, lush greenery in midsummer, and golden larch trees in autumn. Clear reflections on the lake’s surface and fresh mountain air create an experience that feels far removed from the busy world below.
Ideal for families, beginner hikers, or anyone looking for a relaxing day outdoors, Rummel Lake is a perfect spot for photography, a peaceful picnic, or simply soaking in panoramic views. It's one of Kananaskis Country's best-kept secrets—easy to reach and unforgettable once you’re there.
$342/person – includes taxes, ACMG-certified guide and all necessary permits.
Tent Ridge- Moderate- 1 Day
Tent Ridge – A Scenic and Thrilling Adventure
Trip Details
Distance: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Elevation Gain: ~750 meters (2,460 feet)
Difficulty: Moderate
Duration: 1 Day
Tent Ridge offers the perfect blend of challenge and beauty in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. This loop hike takes you along a dramatic alpine ridge with sweeping views of Mt. Engadine, Mt. Joffre, and Ptarmigan Lake far below. The exposed ridge walk adds a thrilling edge, with rocky terrain and nonstop mountain scenery.
Ideal for fit hikers, this moderate adventure includes steep sections, and rewarding high alpine travel on a beautiful ridge overlooking Spray Lakes. Along the way, keep your eyes peeled for mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife that roam the ridges of Kananaskis Country.
At just 10 km, Tent Ridge packs big mountain views into a manageable day hike, an unforgettable journey through some of the most scenic terrain in the region.
$342/person – includes taxes, ACMG-certified guide and all necessary permits.
Cirque Peak- Moderate- 1 day
Cirque Peak: A Scenic Hike with Breathtaking Views
Elevation: 2,993 meters (9,820 feet)
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Cirque Peak is a popular hike in Banff National Park, located just off the Icefields Parkway. At 2,993 meters (9,820 feet), this peak offers stunning views of the Canadian Rockies. The trail begins at Helen Lake, winding through alpine meadows and beautiful landscapes.
The hike leads to a rewarding summit with panoramic vistas of Bow Lake, Bow Summit, and the expansive Wapta Icefield, as well as surrounding peaks and glaciers. With its breathtaking scenery and moderate difficulty, Cirque Peak is a perfect choice for hikers looking to experience the rugged beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
$342/person – includes taxes, ACMG-certified guide and all necessary permits.
Smutswood Peak- Moderate- 1 Day
Smutswood Peak – A Hidden Gem in the Canadian Rockies
Trip Details
Distance: 14 km (8.7 miles)
Elevation Gain: ~900 meters (2,950 feet)
Difficulty: Moderate
Smutswood Peak offers a rewarding and lesser-known hike for those seeking a mix of solitude, adventure, and stunning mountain views. The route begins through lush forests and wildflower-filled meadows, eventually ascending rocky ridgelines to a breathtaking summit with sweeping 360-degree views over Kananaskis Country, including Wedge Mountain, Elbow Valley, and beyond.
Highlights of this journey include serene alpine terrain, frequent wildlife sightings, and a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path feel. The route involves sustained elevation gain and some exposed sections, making it best suited for experienced hikers comfortable with varied terrain.
This hidden gem is perfect for those craving a quiet, immersive backcountry experience with a huge scenic payoff.
$342/person – includes taxes, ACMG-certified guide and all necessary permits.
Rockwall- Moderate- 5 Days
Embark on the Ultimate Backpacking Adventure in the Southern Canadian Rockies
Distance: Approx. 55 km (34 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate
Explore the Rockwall Trail, one of the most iconic and scenic backpacking routes in the Canadian Rockies. This unforgettable multi-day trek leads you through ancient forests, vibrant wildflower meadows, crystal-clear turquoise lakes, and towering peaks crowned with glaciers.
Each day on the trail brings new vistas as the landscape evolves. In the summer, wildflowers blanket the meadows, creating a stunning array of colors. By September, the alpine is aglow with golden larches, transforming the landscape into an autumn masterpiece.
Whether you’re new to backpacking or an experienced adventurer, the Rockwall Trail offers something for everyone. With moderate distances and thrilling ridge hikes, it strikes the perfect balance of challenge and reward. Along the way, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views and meet fellow hikers from around the world, adding to the adventure.
Your journey culminates at Floe Lake, where crystal-clear waters reflect the towering peaks surrounding it. This pristine, glacier-fed lake provides the perfect ending to your adventure—a serene and breathtaking finale to your trek.
Adventure awaits! Whether seeking your next big challenge or looking to connect with nature in one of the most stunning places on Earth, the Rockwall Trail and its awe-inspiring destination, Floe Lake, promise an unforgettable experience.
$1812/Person– includes taxes, ACMG-certified guide, food, communal gear and all necessary permits.
Michelle Lakes- Challenging- 3 Days
Remote Beauty at the Foot of the Rockies
Trip Details
Distance: 22 km (14 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1100 meters (3630 feet)
Difficulty: Challenging
Tucked deep in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the hike to Michelle Lakes is a true alpine escape. This remote and rugged adventure rewards those willing to venture off the beaten path with turquoise glacier-fed lakes, vibrant alpine meadows, and panoramic views of dramatic peaks in every direction.
The journey begins along the historic Cataract Pass route, following a wild and scenic valley lined with larches, waterfalls, and untouched wilderness. As you gain elevation, the landscape opens into a high alpine basin where the twin Michelle Lakes sit in striking contrast to the surrounding grey limestone peaks. This area is a photographer’s dream and a haven for wildlife sightings, wildflowers, and solitude.
This hike is ideal for those with solid hiking experience and a taste for the wild. It's remote, rarely busy, and offers one of the most rewarding alpine lake experiences in the Rockies.
$1087/person – includes taxes, ACMG-certified guide, food, communal gear and all necessary permits.
Mount Robson: The Wild Traverse- Challenging- 7 Days
A Rugged Adventure Through the Heart of the Rockies
Distance: Approx. 105 km (65 miles)
Difficulty: Challenging
This hike takes you deep into the rugged wilderness of the Canadian Rockies, offering an unforgettable adventure with breathtaking landscapes. From lush, forested valleys to towering alpine ridgelines, this hike presents a combination of steep ascents and descents that challenge even the most seasoned hikers. Along the way, you’ll cross high-altitude passes with sweeping views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and pristine alpine lakes.
Hikers can expect elevations exceeding 2,400 meters (7,874 feet), a true test of endurance. The journey culminates in the stunning Berg Lake, situated at the foot of the majestic Mount Robson—the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. This awe-inspiring destination is the perfect reward for your hard-earned trek.
Key Features:
Epic Mountain Passes: Conquer steep climbs that lead to panoramic views of jagged peaks, glaciers, and valleys.
Glacial Lakes and Streams: Refresh yourself by crossing glacial-fed streams along the way and marvel at serene lakes, perfect for taking a break or refilling your water supply.
Wildlife Encounters: This is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including moose, bighorn sheep, black bears and the iconic grizzly bear.
Solitude and Serenity: This is a very remote area of the Canadian Rockies providing hikers with a rare sense of isolation and the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature away from crowds.
Final Destination – Mount Robson & Berg Lake:
After a challenging trek through the wilderness, Berg Lake at the base of Mount Robson awaits. Known for its stunning beauty, Berg Lake offers panoramic views of glaciers, waterfalls, and turquoise waters, making it one of the most scenic spots in the Rockies. The towering Mount Robson, standing at 3,954 meters (12,972 feet), serves as a perfect backdrop, providing a dramatic and rewarding conclusion to your adventure.
This hike isn’t for the faint of heart, but for those who are up for the challenge, it’s an unparalleled journey through some of the wildest and most stunning landscapes in the Canadian Rockies.
Important Note:
This wild adventure is available exclusively in September, when river and creek water levels are lower, ensuring safer crossings.
$2535/Person- includes taxes, ACMG-certified guide, food, communal gear and all necessary permits.
Wild n Tailored
Wild n Free Mountain Adventures – Unleash the Explorer in You with Tailored Day Hikes and Backpacking Trips
Are you ready to break free and discover the wild? At Wild n Free Mountain Adventures, we offer customized hiking experiences that will push your limits, ignite your sense of adventure, and leave you with unforgettable memories. Whether you're just starting your journey or you're an experienced hiker looking for the ultimate challenge, we’ve got the perfect adventure waiting for you.
For beginners, our day hikes are your gateway to the untamed beauty of nature. Explore crystal-clear lakes, lush forests, and breathtaking vistas on easy-to-moderate hikes designed to introduce you to the wild without overwhelming you. You’ll experience the thrill of the great outdoors in a way that’s accessible, inspiring, and totally unforgettable.
For the seasoned adventurers, we’re here to take you further—into the heart of the wilderness. Backpacking trips and challenging day hikes will test your endurance, reward you with panoramic summit views, and immerse you in landscapes most only dream about. From remote peaks to rugged ridgelines, these hikes are designed for those who crave the wild at its most untamed.
Whether you’re looking for a scenic day escape or a wild multi-day backpacking journey or soar into the wild by helicopter, Wild n Free Mountain Adventures promises an experience that will exhilarate your spirit and leave you feeling truly Wild and Free in the mountains.
Fuel your wild side and contact us to plan your custom adventure!
Intro to the Wild: Backcountry Camping Basics
Backcountry Camping Course: Your Gateway to Adventure in the Canadian Rockies
Ready to explore the mountains but not sure where to start? Our two-day, one-night Backcountry Camping Course is the perfect introduction to camping and hiking in the stunning Canadian Rockies! Let us guide you through the essentials of backcountry camping in a safe and fun environment.
What You’ll Learn:
Essential Gear: We’ll show you exactly what gear you need, how to pack light, and how to set up camp like a pro.
Food & Water: Master the art of meal planning for the backcountry and learn how to purify water on the trail.
Camp Setup & Safety: Gain hands-on experience with campsite selection, tent setup, and staying safe in the wild.
Leave No Trace: Learn the principles of minimal-impact camping to preserve the beauty of the wilderness.
Weather Forecasting: Know how to predict the weather so you can stay prepared and safe.
On this guided adventure, we’ll take you on a scenic hike to a beautiful area of the Rockies, where you’ll put your new skills to the test. You’ll enjoy a delicious backcountry meal, spend the night in a lightweight backpacking tent, and wake up to breathtaking mountain views. The next morning, we’ll head back to civilization, leaving you with the confidence and knowledge to embark on your own backcountry adventures.
No experience needed—just a sense of adventure! Whether you're looking to start your hiking journey or want to gain more confidence in the backcountry, this course is your perfect first step.
$525/Person- includes taxes, ACMG-certified guide, food, communal gear and all necessary permits.
Who is Wild n’ Free…
Wild n’ Free Mountain Adventures is a boutique, one-guide operation driven by passion, purpose and genuine connection. I’m Dan Peterson and after a lifetime of chasing peaks, skiing, mountaineering, packrafting alpine rivers, ice climbing and exploring remote peaks, I took the leap to share these mountain experiences with others who crave something real.
With over 20 years of mountain travel under my belt, including 7 years guiding professionally, I bring cultivated experience and certified skills as a Hiking Guide with the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides. I’ve roamed the globe, from the Everest region of Nepal, the volcanoes of Indonesia to the Coast Mountains of British Columbia and the rugged heart of the Canadian Rockies.
What sets Wild n' Free apart? The small, personal touches. With a 4:1 client-to-guide ratio, I ensure that every adventurer receives the attention and care they deserve. This allows for a more genuine and tailored experience, so whether you’re seeking the perfect photo, a life changing challenge or just a real connection with the mountains, you’ll have the space and support to do it.
But Wild n’ Free isn’t just about where we go, it’s about how we go.
Every trip is crafted with care, intention and the kind of flexibility only a small, personal guiding service can provide. No crowds, no cookie cutter itineraries, just custom guided hikes near Canmore, Banff, Jasper and beyond with meaningful connections with the mountains and experiences that leave you feeling stronger, freer…more alive.
As a Certified Wilderness First Responder your safety is my priority. But your transformation? That’s the mission.
So, if you’re ready to break free from the ordinary and truly experience what it means to be wild n’ free, get in touch. Let’s do something unforgettable.
