Women's Only 2-Day Retreat at the Spectacular Shadow Lake Lodge in Banff National Park!

Experience the beauty of Banff National Park in winter on this two-day snowshoe adventure to Shadow Lake Lodge. Travel through peaceful snow-covered forests into the backcountry before spending the night in the warmth and comfort of a mountain lodge.

Treat yourself to a cozy private cabin (for the group) in the mountains! This trip offers a wonderful introduction to winter backcountry travel without the need for winter camping. Shadow Lake Lodge features amenities including indoor bathrooms and showers, electricity, and even a General Store for snacks and goodies!

Socialize with the crew by the fire in the historic 1920s-era CPR Cabin or snuggle in with your favourite book. This beautiful cabin get away has something for everyone!

Your ACMG Guide will lead you up Red Earth Creek to this hidden gem. We'll take care of the planning, food, group gear and getting you set up for the trip.

Grab your bestie and let us guide you through this awesome winter mountain adventure!

Level of difficulty

Moderate
  • Distance14 km
  • Elevation gain440 m
  • Pack~15 lb · 7 kg
  • On the moveup to 6 h a day

This trip is suitable for participants with a moderate level of fitness. No previous snowshoeing experience is required; however, participants should be comfortable snowshoeing for up to 6 hours per day while carrying a backpack weighing approximately 15 lbs (7 kg).

6-week hiking fitness program (PDF)

Day by day

  1. Day1

    Pre-Trip Meeting

    At the pre-trip, we will introduce the group, make sure everyone has everything they need, and distribute the group gear.

  2. Day2

    Redearth Creek Trailhead to Shadow Lake Lodge

    14 km+440 m

    14 km | 440 m elevation gain | Approximately 4–6 hours

    Meet your guide at the Redearth Creek Trailhead in Banff National Park for introductions, a gear check, and a final snowshoe fitting before beginning our journey into the backcountry.

    We'll follow the Redearth Creek Trail through a quiet, snow-covered forest, gradually gaining elevation as we travel deeper into the mountains. Along the way, we'll take breaks to enjoy the winter landscape and learn more about snowshoeing and winter backcountry travel.

    The final section of the trail brings us to Shadow Lake and our home for the night.

    After a full day outside, we'll settle into the warmth of Shadow Lake Lodge and enjoy the lodge's shared kitchen, dining and lounge spaces.

  3. Day3

    Day 2 – Shadow Lake Lodge to Redearth Creek Trailhead

    14 km | 440 m elevation loss | Approximately 4–5 hours

    After breakfast at the lodge, we'll pack our gear and prepare for our journey back to the Redearth Creek Trailhead. Depending on conditions and timing, we'll have an opportunity for a short morning exploration around the Shadow Lake area before beginning our return journey.

    On our return to the trailhead, we'll retrace our route through the Redearth Creek valley, enjoying a predominantly downhill snowshoe, and another day immersed in Banff's gorgeous winter landscape.

    In the afternoon, we'll arrive back at the trailhead and say our goodbyes after completing our winter backcountry adventure.

    Total distance: approximately 28–31 km over two days.

    • 2 Night Option:

    Extra Day – Shadow Lake Lodge to Redearth Creek Trailhead

    The two-night option includes an extra day and night at the cabin, plus a full day to explore the surrounding area on a guided hike of about 10 km.

    Total distance: approximately 55 km over four days.

Gear, food & lodging

Included

One night of shared accommodation at Shadow Lake Lodge

Durable snowshoes and trekking poles

  • Backcountry meals and food for the duration of the trip
  • Certified ACMG Hiking Guide with Winter Travel certification
  • Safety equipment:  Communication Device, First Aid Kit
  • Trip planning and logistics

You bring

  • Accommodations the night before getting on the trail
  • Transportation to the trailhead

National Park Pass (This can be purchased at a Parks gate or at the Parks Information Center)

  • Breakfast and Lunch of day 1 and supper on the last day
  • Personal Gear (Can be arranged for an additional fee - thermarests are NOT needed)


    Winter Camping Gear List

Private cabin upgrades and personal purchases from the Shadow Lake Lodge General Store are not included in the trip price.

Accommodations

Shadow Lake Lodge offers the comforts of a mountain lodge in a spectacular backcountry setting. Amenities include heated cabins, hot showers, heated washrooms, a fully equipped communal kitchen and dining area, a cozy fireside lounge, potable water and electricity.

Accommodation for this trip is based on shared occupancy in one of the cabins. Guests may share a cabin with another trip participant or with the guide.

Guests who prefer a private cabin may request one at the time of booking, subject to availability. Private cabin accommodation is available at an additional cost.

Guests are required to bring their own sleeping bag. Pillows are provided; however, guests must bring their own pillowcase.

Photos from the trail

Taken by our guides and guests on this trip.

Where

Banff National Park

Get Outside is based in Canmore, Alberta — 1.25 hours from Calgary International Airport, 5 km from the entrance to Banff National Park. Multi-day trips start with an in-person pre-trip meeting where we check everyone’s gear and hand out group equipment.

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