About Us

Our Journey Through the Canadian Wilderness

Canadian Parks Guide began as a small passion project in 2010, founded by two friends who met while working as seasonal trail guides in Banff National Park. Sarah Thompson, a wildlife biologist, and Michael Chen, a landscape photographer, were frequently asked by visitors for recommendations beyond the popular tourist spots. They realized there was a significant gap between the standard tourist information and the deep, local knowledge that makes for truly extraordinary park experiences.

What started as a simple blog documenting hidden viewpoints and optimal wildlife viewing times has grown into a comprehensive resource for travelers seeking authentic experiences in Canada's mountain parks. By 2015, we had expanded to include a team of expert guides, photographers, and conservation specialists who share our commitment to responsible wilderness exploration.

Today, Canadian Parks Guide has helped over 250,000 visitors from around the world plan memorable journeys through the Canadian Rockies. We're proud to offer resources that not only showcase the spectacular beauty of these protected areas but also promote sustainable tourism practices that help preserve these natural treasures for future generations.

Canadian Parks Guide founders in Banff National Park

Our Mission & Values

Our Mission

To inspire meaningful connections between people and Canada's wild places through expert guidance, accurate information, and breathtaking imagery, while promoting conservation ethics that ensure these natural wonders remain vibrant for generations to come.

Environmental Stewardship

We believe that enjoying nature comes with a responsibility to protect it. We advocate for Leave No Trace principles and support conservation initiatives throughout the Canadian Rockies.

Education & Awareness

Knowledge enhances appreciation. We're committed to providing accurate, science-based information about park ecosystems, wildlife behavior, and geological features.

Community Connection

We honor the Indigenous peoples whose traditional territories encompass these parks, and work to include their perspectives and cultural knowledge in our resources.

Authentic Experiences

We believe in promoting genuine interactions with nature that balance accessibility with wilderness preservation, helping visitors find experiences that match their abilities and interests.

Meet Our Expert Team

Our dedicated specialists bring decades of experience in the Canadian Rockies

Sarah Thompson

Founder & Wildlife Specialist

With a Ph.D. in Wildlife Biology from the University of British Columbia, Sarah has studied large mammal behavior in the Canadian Rockies for over 15 years. Her research on grizzly bear habitat use has been published in leading conservation journals, and she regularly consults on wildlife corridor initiatives throughout the mountain parks.

Michael Chen

Co-Founder & Lead Photographer

Before co-founding Canadian Parks Guide, Michael worked as a professional landscape photographer for National Geographic and Canadian Geographic. His iconic images of the Rockies have won numerous international awards, including the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition. Michael leads our photography workshops and contributes to our visual storytelling.

Emma Whitecloud

Indigenous Knowledge Specialist

A member of the Stoney Nakoda Nation, Emma brings traditional ecological knowledge to our team. With a background in cultural anthropology and environmental education, she helps us incorporate Indigenous perspectives into our guides. Emma leads special cultural heritage tours and ensures respectful representation of Indigenous history in our content.

David Bergeron

Alpine Guide & Safety Coordinator

With ACMG certification and over 200 summits in the Canadian Rockies, David brings unparalleled mountaineering expertise to our team. After a decade leading technical climbing expeditions throughout North America, he joined Canadian Parks Guide to develop our backcountry safety resources. David oversees our route descriptions, difficulty ratings, and seasonal trail condition updates.

Our Achievements

Over the years, our dedication to showcasing and preserving Canada's natural treasures has earned recognition

250,000+

Visitors guided through the Canadian Rockies using our resources

Best Travel Guide

Canadian Tourism Association, 2022 & 2023

$75,000

Raised for wildlife corridor conservation projects

15 Photography Awards

Including National Geographic Traveler Photo Contest

50+ Guided Tours

Specialized educational tours conducted annually

3 Published Guides

Best-selling print guides to the Canadian Rockies

What Our Clients Say

Hear from visitors who explored the parks with our guidance

"Canadian Parks Guide transformed our family trip to Banff. Their detailed trail recommendations helped us discover breathtaking viewpoints away from crowds, and their wildlife watching tips led to an amazing encounter with a moose and her calf. Their guidance on timing was particularly valuable—visiting Moraine Lake at sunrise as they suggested was magical."

Jennifer Osaka

Tokyo, Japan

"As a professional photographer, I needed locations that offered unique perspectives beyond the postcard shots. The Canadian Parks Guide team provided invaluable advice on seasonal conditions and lighting. Their photography-specific itinerary suggestions and technical tips for shooting in mountain conditions helped me capture award-winning images. Their knowledge of hidden gems in Yoho National Park was particularly impressive."

Marcus Hendricks

Berlin, Germany

Maria and Carlos Rodriguez - Satisfied clients from Argentina

"Planning a two-week backcountry adventure in Jasper seemed overwhelming until we found Canadian Parks Guide. Their detailed information on permits, trail conditions, and campground facilities was accurate and up-to-date. The interactive maps we downloaded from their website worked even without cell service, which was crucial during our trek. Their safety recommendations and wildlife encounter protocols gave us confidence in remote areas."

Maria & Carlos Rodriguez

Buenos Aires, Argentina

Ready to Explore Canada's Magnificent National Parks?

Our expert team is ready to help you plan an unforgettable journey through Banff, Jasper, and Yoho National Parks. Whether you're seeking wildlife encounters, photography opportunities, or peaceful wilderness experiences, we'll provide personalized guidance to make your Canadian adventure extraordinary.

Contact Our Experts Explore Parks