The Rockies Ultimate Owl Adventure

February 1–7, 2025
From the open prairies to coastal marshes — six days, dozens of birds, endless awe.

Escape the deep freeze and join us on a one-of-a-kind adventure through the milder west of Canada — where some of the most iconic owls and winter birds await, framed by stunning mountains, open skies, and coastal charm. Canada’s Ultimate Owl Tour is built for birders, photographers, and nature lovers who want to make the most of winter without bundling up in -30°C temperatures.

Headlining our journey are some of the most charismatic and elusive owls in North America:
🦉 Great Gray Owl
🦉 Northern Pygmy Owl
🦉 Barn Owl
With additional chances for Snowy Owl, Barred Owl, Short-eared Owl, and more.

But this isn’t just an owl tour. Expect an explosion of western winter birdlife including:
American Dipper, Varied Thrush, Gray-crowned Rosy Finch, Evening Grosbeak, Eurasian Wigeon, Barrow’s Goldeneye, Bohemian Waxwings, Anna’s Hummingbird, and thousands of Snow Geese in awe-inspiring flocks. It’s a full-on spectacle — all against the backdrop of dramatic mountain passes, peaceful prairies, and bird-rich coastal wetlands.

• Owl encounters in snowy foothills, mountain valleys, and interior forests
   
• Winter specialties from the Rockies to the Pacific
   
• Small group setting with expert guiding of Lev Frid and Murray Shields
   
• Comfortable accommodations in charming towns and cities
   
• A relaxing pace with flexible daily plans based on weather and bird movement
   
• Warm western Canadian hospitality (and warmer weather too!)
   

Arrivals at Calgary International Airport by early afternoon. We’ll greet you and drive to nearby Cochrane where we’ll kick things off with a welcome dinner.
📍 Overnight in Cochrane

Today we explore the surrounding foothills and prairies for Snowy Owls and venture into wooded areas for Great Gray Owls. These two iconic species will be our focus — with timing adjusted for weather and bird movement.
📍 Overnight in Cochrane

We head west on a beautiful drive to Revelstoke, BC, birding en route and arriving in time for afternoon chances at Northern Pygmy Owls in classic mountain habitat.
📍 Overnight at SureStay, Revelstoke

A full day in Revelstoke gives us access to a wide range of mountain specialties:
Northern Pygmy Owl, Short-eared Owl, Great Gray Owl, Varied Thrush, Rosy Finches, Evening & Pine Grosbeaks, Redpolls, Mountain & Boreal Chickadees, Bohemian Waxwings, and more.
📍 Overnight at SureStay, Revelstoke

We hit the road on one of the most scenic drives in Canada, making stops along the way for chances at Golden Eagles, Northern Goshawk, and Bighorn Sheep. Arrive in Vancouver in the evening.
📍 Overnight in Vancouver Area

A full day of birding in Vancouver’s Lower Mainland! Highlights include:
Reifel Bird Sanctuary (incredible waterfowl views including Eurasian Wigeon, Snow Geese)
Stanley Park and coastal areas for Black Turnstone, Black Oystercatcher, Barrow’s Goldeneye, Anna’s Hummingbirds, Varied Thrush, Spotted Towhee, Bushtits, Pacific Wren, and more.

Day 7 - February 7 / Morning Stanley Park Birding 

📍 Morning birding wrap-up, then airport drop-off by 1:00 PM — please schedule flights accordingly.

Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Start/End: Calgary to Vancouver
Group Size: Max 6 guests
Fitness Level: Easy to Moderate (some light walking)
Transportation: Comfortable van transport included
Accommodations: Clean and cozy lodges/hotels in scenic locations
Meals: Welcome dinner included; other meals at local stops along the way

• Expert guiding by Lev Frid & Murray Shields of Nature Across Canada
   
• All transportation and park fees
   
• 6 nights' accommodation
   
• Welcome dinner
   
• Unlimited photo and birding support
   
• Pre-trip packing list and info sheet
   
• Small group experience with a personal touch
   

• Flights to Calgary and from Vancouver
   
• Most meals and snacks
   
• Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
   
• Gratuities
   
• Personal items and souvenirs
   

Spots are limited — reserve yours today and be part of an unforgettable journey through Canada’s wild west in winter.