Detailed Itinerary

(Please note, like most of our Canada rail packages & tours, this railway vacation can be customized to your needs - just ask one of our local experts when you call.)

EASTBOUND ITINERARY
Westbound is the same, except reversed. See below for details

Day 1 - Your Canadian Rockies Train Vacation Begins - Arrival in Vancouver
One of the most beautiful cities in the world, Vancouver is surrounded by towering mountains and sparkling ocean. Depending on your time of arrival, you can relax and dine al fresco or get out and explore on foot or bicycle. Overnight in Vancouver (as usual, with your choice of 3, 4 or 5 star accommodations - see pricing options).

Day 2 On the Rocky Mountaineer train – Vancouver to Kamloops
This is the first day of your 2-day Canadian Rockies train journey. There is a gentle pull as the train leaves Vancouver and the smell of coffee and breakfast wafts from the galley. The scenery is breathtaking as you pull out of the Fraser Valley; venture out onto the outdoor viewing platform for unobstructed views and cool fresh air. Overnight in the small town of Kamloops, on the high desert interior of British Columbia.

Day 3 - On the Rocky Mountaineer train – Kamloops to Jasper
The exhilaration of your Canadian Rockies train vacation reaches a high when finally you see the distinctive jagged peaks of the Canadian Rockies. You learn about the history of the railroad and spot wildlife as you go. In the late afternoon arrive in Jasper - disembark your train and breathe in the cool, fresh mountain air - the feeling is indescribable. Overnight in Jasper.

Day 4 – Exploring The Canadian Rockies – Tour to Maligne Lake
Today you join a local guided tour and embrace Canadian wilderness. Explore Maligne Canyon including a guided walk above the gorge. Stop at Medicine Lake and then Maligne Lake where you will take the boat cruise to Spirit Island. The Maligne Valley Tour is also an excellent opportunity to see Jasper's wildlife. Overnight in Jasper.

Day 5 - In The Canadian Rockies - The Icefields Parkway From Jasper to Lake Louise
Rising from your warm bed is difficult this morning but well worth it. Today you journey along one of the most famous highways in the world - the Icefields Parkway. Stop to walk on the Athabasca Glacier and learn about the science of glaciers - in late afternoon your Canada train trip brings you to the beauty of Lake Louise for your overnight stay.

Day 6 - Exploring The Southern Canadian Rockies – Lake Louise to Banff
Take the time this morning to enjoy Lake Louise, this afternoon it’s off to Banff! A lively mountain town with great restaurants and a low-key cowboy atmosphere, Banff is a welcome change of pace. Enjoy strolling Banff Avenue or try one of the numerous outdoor adventures offered in this outdoor playground. Overnight in Banff.

Day 7 - In The Canadian Rockies - Exploring Banff
Fill your lungs with cool, fresh Rockies air! Today enjoy a change of pace on your Canadian Rockies train trip. Explore the sleepy mountain town of Banff on a guided tour and drink in the views of the surrounding national parks from the summit of Sulphur Mountain.

The lofty peak is reached by a gondola swinging beneath the cable far above the valley floor and surrounded by jagged Canadian Rockies peaks, with the Bow River glistening in the distance (note that gondala only runs in peak season May-October). Overnight in Banff.

Day 8 - Leaving the Canadian Rockies - Depart from Calgary
Much too soon you leave the cool crisp air and colorful sights of the Canadian Rockies as your Canada train trip comes to an end. Yet you leave with memories to revisit and treasure for a lifetime!