Day 1 Vancouver to Jasper | VIA Rail
This afternoon, board VIA Rail’s ‘Canadian’ train for the famous rail journey to the majestic Canadian Rockies. Step back in time to the days of classic rail travel, riding in the original steel ‘streamliner’ railcars made famous by the ‘Canadian’ in the 1950s. Pass through the rich fields of the Fraser Valley and the towering peaks of the Coastal Mountains before entering the Fraser Canyon. Follow the Thompson River through spectacular landscapes as you enjoy dinner (included), then retreat to your private quarters that have been converted into a bedroom.
Day 2 Arrive Jasper | VIA Rail
Rise to the snowy peaks of the Canadian Rockies today as you arrive in Jasper and transfer to your hotel. The day is free to explore this unique alpine community. (breakfast included today onboard VIA Rail)
Day 3 Jasper Trail Tour | Dog Sledding
Travel through the silent undisturbed beauty of winter and all it has to offer. This is a great hands on opportunity to venture deep into the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and the beautiful scenery that surrounds you while you warm up with a hearty trail side lunch, cooked over an open campfire, hot apple cider and homemade treats.
Day 4 Jasper to Lake Louise | Evening sleigh ride
Travel southward along the Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise. This spectacular drive through glacier country will be highlighted by massive snow covered mountains, frozen waterfalls and broad-reaching valleys. Included this evening is a wonderful 40 minute Sleigh Ride that takes place beside the lake.
Day 5 Lake Louise | Day at leisure
Lake Louise transforms into a real-life snow globe in the winter that has to be seen to be believed. To make the most of your stay, rent a pair of ice skates and head onto the frozen lake or snowshoes and explore the many trails, wander the shoreline and take in the iconic views – both are authentic Canadian experiences. For skiing or snowboarding visit Lake Louise Ski Resort, known for it’s spectacular scenery and versatile terrain. With over 4,200 acres spread across four mountain faces.
Day 6 Lake Louise to Banff | Coach
Depart Lake Louise mid-morning for a short drive to Banff via the scenic Bow Valley. Banff is situated in Banff National Park, this charming town has much to offer including winter walks, ice skating, world-class shopping, and unique dining.
Day 7 - 8 Banff | Freedom of Choice - Choose 2 of 4 Excursions
During your stay in Banff you can personalize your stay by choosing two of these excursions
Option 1. Discover Banff & Its Wildlife Tour
Keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, and bighorn sheep on this morning tour of Banff. Scenic highlights include Fairmont Banff Springs, Bow Falls, Surprise Corner Lookout, the Hoodoos Viewpoint & Lake Minnewanka.
Option 2. Snowshoeing at Paint Pots
Afternoon snowshoe tour on an easy trail winding through a forest of pine trees to the Paint Pots with its ochre colors mineral pools.
Option 3. Johnston Canyon Icewalk
This morning Johnston Canyon Icewalk tour is an unforgettable experience that will introduce you to stunning frozen waterfalls and amazing views within the canyon.
Option 4. Banff Gondola
Experience a world of adventure and beauty at the summit of Banff’s Sulphur Mountain. Indoors, the experience is equal parts excitement and exploration, with an interpretive centre. Outside, the epic views are truly endless with a stroll along the mountain boardwalk.
Day 9 Banff to Calgary | Coach
Today, transfer to Calgary Airport or downtown Calgary. We will arrange a transfer to suit your flight schedule.
Day 1 Calgary to Banff | Coach
Leave the Stampede City of Calgary or Calgary Airport on the express service to Banff where you have ample opportunity to take in the sights.
Day 2 - 3 Banff | Freedom of Choice - Choose 2 of 4 Excursions
During your stay in Banff you can personalize your stay by choosing two of these excursions
Option 1. Discover Banff & Its Wildlife Tour
Keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, and bighorn sheep on this morning tour of Banff. Scenic highlights include Fairmont Banff Springs, Bow Falls, Surprise Corner Lookout, the Hoodoos Viewpoint & Lake Minnewanka.
Option 2. Snowshoeing at Paint Pots
Afternoon snowshoe tour on an easy trail winding through a forest of pine trees to the Paint Pots with its ochre colors mineral pools.
Option 3. Johnston Canyon Icewalk
This morning Johnston Canyon Icewalk tour is an unforgettable experience that will introduce you to stunning frozen waterfalls and amazing views within the canyon.
Option 4. Banff Gondola
Experience a world of adventure and beauty at the summit of Banff’s Sulphur Mountain. Indoors, the experience is equal parts excitement and exploration, with an interpretive centre. Outside, the epic views are truly endless with a stroll along the mountain boardwalk.
Day 4 Banff to Lake Louise | Evening Sleigh Ride
Depart Banff early afternoon for a short drive via the scenic Bow Valley to Lake Louise. Included this evening is a wonderful 40 minute Sleigh Ride that takes place beside the lake.
Day 5 Lake Louise | Day at Leisure
Lake Louise transforms into a real-life snow globe in the winter that has to be seen to be believed. To make the most of your stay, rent a pair of ice skates and head onto the frozen lake or snowshoes and explore the many trails, wander the shoreline and take in the iconic views – both are authentic Canadian experiences. For skiing or snowboarding visit Lake Louise Ski Resort, known for it’s spectacular scenery and versatile terrain. With over 4,200 acres spread across four mountain faces.
Day 6 Lake Louise to Jasper | Coach
Travel northward along the Icefields Parkway to Jasper today. This spectacular drive through glacier country will be highlighted by massive snow covered mountains, frozen waterfalls and broad reaching valleys.
Day 7 Jasper Trail Tour | Dog Sledding
Travel through the silent undisturbed beauty of winter and all it has to offer. This is a great hands on opportunity to venture deep into the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and the beautiful scenery that surrounds you while you warm up with a hearty trail side lunch, cooked over an open campfire, hot apple cider and homemade treats. During this time you will have the opportunity to learn the history of both the area and the people.
Day 8 Jasper to Vancouver | VIA Rail
This morning, board VIA Rail’s ‘Canadian’ train for the journey from Jasper to Vancouver. Using the original steel railcars from the 1950s, sit back and relax in the dome car to enjoy a dramatic change in scenery as you travel the ‘Yellowhead’ route past the sprawling grandeur of Mount Robson. Watch the landscape transition from mountains to desert as you follow the Thompson River into central British Columbia. Brunch and dinner is included onboard VIA Rail, and your private quarters will once again be transformed into a bedroom for the overnight journey.
Day 9 Arrive Vancouver | VIA Rail
Waking to the coastal city of Vancouver today, your tour ends upon arrival. (continental breakfast included today onboard VIA Rail)
