Canadian Rockies by Train

Take a remarkable journey through the stunning landscapes, charming towns and beautiful lakes of the Canadian Rockies. Your adventure opens in Vancouver. With arrival times varying, there are no scheduled activities today.

Begin your Vancouver sightseeing tour at beautiful Stanley Park, Canada’s renowned urban rainforest. Follow the park’s famous seawall and discover views of the mountains along trails, beaches, historical landmarks and colorful gardens. Make your way to picturesque Granville Island Public Market to stroll through its fascinating stalls of handmade crafts and artisan food producers. Later, board VIA Rail’s The Canadian to begin your journey to the majestic Canadian Rockies. Relive train travel in the days of old as you are rocked to sleep tonight in your private accommodations.

Your eastbound train whisks you past the peaks of the Monashee Mountains and the stunning sight of Pyramid Falls cascading down Mt. Cheadle. Relax in the dome car as you experience 360-degree views of the glistening glaciers of the Albreda Icefields and on a clear day, view Mt. Robson – the highest peak of the Rockies! Moose, mountain goats, bears and caribou call this wonderland home. This afternoon, arrive in Jasper, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies at the gateway to the incredible Icefields Parkway.

This morning, travel to Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy breakfast against the backdrop of the picture-perfect sparkling waters of the lake before choosing to embark on an optional cruise highlighting the beauty of Spirit Island. Later, enjoy the dramatic Maligne Canyon, one of the area’s most spectacular landmarks. Return to your hotel with time to independently explore this lovely town.

Set off for a wonderful day of sightseeing en route to Lake Louise. Journey along the unforgettable Icefields Parkway. Waterfalls, rushing rivers, glacial peaks, imposing cliffs and snowcapped peaks paint the breathtaking canvas – so have your camera handy! Enjoy a stop at the Athabasca Falls and marvel at its sheer beauty and power. Then, it’s your choice! Stop at the Athabasca Glacier and choose a fun ride across this mass of glacial ice which is over 1,000 feet thick – the largest accumulation of ice south of the Arctic Circle -OR- take a walk on the Columbia Icefield Skywalk to experience the breathtaking views of the Sunwapta Valley and witness the dramatic landscape from the glass-floored platform. Continuing down the parkway, be on the lookout for bears, furry marmots and stately elk. Enjoy a stop at Bow Lake – a beautiful crystal-clear lake fed by Bow Glacier – before arriving in Lake Louise.

Today, view the awe-inspiring Valley of the Ten Peaks, distinctively saw-toothed, standing out amidst stunning Alpine scenery. Continue on a scenic drive through Banff and witness the powerful Bow Falls and Surprise Corner, known for its panoramic views. Arrive in the charming mountain town of Banff for a 2-night stay.

Start your day at Cave and Basin National Historic Site where the first conservation efforts began to protect land that led to the birth of Canada’s first national park. Next, meet a local ammolite specialist to learn about this rare gemstone found only in Alberta. During leisure time, perhaps you will take a stroll through Banff’s delightful downtown.

Leave the wonders of the Rockies for the prairies of Alberta en route to the Kananaskis Valley. Visit a local ranch for a line dance lesson and enjoy a wagon ride in search of buffalo. Then, delight in a traditional Albertan barbecue with beautiful views of the mountains in the background. Later, enjoy the views of the prairies before you reach the vibrant city of Calgary. Tonight, join in a farewell dinner celebrating the end of a memorable trip.

Your tour ends today in Calgary.