Experience the Canadian Rockies Under the Stars: Luxury Night Sky Tours
Under the Stars- Banff National Park- Photo by Matthew Hollamby
There is something profoundly humbling about standing beneath a sky blanketed with stars, the mountains rising silently around you, the crisp night air carrying a sense of both serenity and adventure. At Canadian Rockies Experience, our Night Sky Tours are designed to offer an unparalleled, immersive encounter with the cosmos — blending luxury, comfort, and education in the heart of the Rockies’ most pristine landscapes.
Your evening begins in style, with a private pick-up from your hotel or residence in Canmore, Banff, or surrounding areas. From the moment we collect you, the experience is seamless and indulgent: our professional guides ensure your comfort and safety, transporting you to the starting point of the night’s adventure while serving hot drinks and ensuring you are equipped for the evening. Whether it’s cleats for icy trails, high-quality headlamps, handwarmers, or any specialized gear you may need, every detail is considered so that you can fully immerse yourself in the experience without worry.
The Milky Way galaxy at Bow Lake, Banff National Park
Once at the trailhead, we begin by exploring the stories and science behind the night sky. Our guides provide insight into how humans have historically used the stars to navigate, how indigenous peoples and early explorers relied on celestial cues, and the way the natural world — from plants to animals — has adapted to the cycles of night and day. This blend of natural history and astronomy transforms the walk into more than just a hike; it becomes an educational journey, connecting you to both the cosmos and the ecosystems around you.
The hike itself is a series of carefully curated moments. At various points along the trail, we pause, turn off our headlamps, and allow your eyes to adjust to the darkness. Our guides explain the fascinating science behind rod and cone vision in humans, how our eyes adapt to low-light conditions, and how nocturnal wildlife perceives the night — creating a connection that deepens your appreciation for the natural rhythms of life. As we continue, we identify constellations, planets, and notable celestial phenomena, sharing captivating facts that inspire wonder and reflection.
On special nights, the sky itself becomes a moving spectacle: the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis, dance across the horizon in vivid greens, purples, and blues. Witnessing this ethereal display from the tranquility of the Rockies is nothing short of magical. Our guides share the science behind these shimmering curtains of light — how charged particles from the sun interact with the Earth’s atmosphere — while also honoring the cultural stories and legends that have been passed down through generations. It’s a moment that blends awe, science, and luxury, all while surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery on Earth.
The Aurora Borealis- Castle Mountain- Banff National Park. Photo by Lauren Hollamby Photography
After the hike, we settle in a designated dark sky area where the Milky Way sprawls overhead, and the Northern Lights may continue to shimmer above. Guests are treated to a luxury dessert, savoring every bite while absorbing the immensity of the universe. It’s a moment to reflect on our smallness in the grand scheme, to connect with nature, and to discuss the importance of preserving these dark skies in an increasingly light-polluted world.
Whether you are an avid astronomy enthusiast, a lover of nature, or simply seeking a unique and luxurious evening in the Canadian Rockies, our Night Sky Tours offer an unforgettable journey. With careful attention to comfort, education, and the sheer awe of the cosmos — sometimes illuminated by the dancing Northern Lights — this is more than a tour: it’s an experience that lingers long after the last star fades from view.
Rediscover wonder. Reconnect with the natural world. Witness the Canadian Rockies in a way few ever will — under a sky that has inspired humanity for millennia, sometimes even painted by the Northern Lights themselves.
Written by Matthew Hollamby, Night Sky Guide with Canadian Rockies Experience. My fascination with astronomy and cosmology began years ago, and it continues to grow every time I step beneath the incredible dark skies of the Rockies. Sharing that passion with guests—helping them spot constellations, planets, or even a flash of the aurora—is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
