Majestic mountain peaks, frozen glaciers, castles
cabins and pine trees as far as the eye can see
Majestic mountain peaks, frozen glaciers, castles, cabins and pine trees as far as the eye can see. Canada’s Rocky Mountains transform into a winter wonderland from late November through to April.
Experience the magic of Canada’s Rocky Mountains in winter, when snow cloaks mountaintops and frosts the boughs of towering firs, creating postcard perfect landscapes. Your 9-day Winter Wonderland holiday begins in cosmopolitan Vancouver in British Columbia where you climb aboard VIA Rail’s elegant flagship train The Canadian. En route to the province of Alberta, bypass Hell’s Gate, a stretch of rapids so swift that a fish ladder had to be built to help salmon swim upstream.
On arrival in Jasper, join an educational excursion in search of cold-climate animal mascots such as elk, moose and coyote, with plenty of time to soak up the soft quiet of snow-covered hills and evergreen forests. The next chapter of your adventure takes you over the scenic Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise, whose crystalline waters often perfectly mirror surrounding peaks. In neighbouring Banff, ride the Banff Gondola to a dizzying elevation of 2,281 metres for sweeping views of six majestic mountain ranges. At the end of each day, relax by a blazing log fire in your cosy alpine lodge or hotel.
Inclusions
- Overnight VIA Rail
- 7 nights accommodation
- Sightseeing tours and transfers as per itinerary
Highlights
- Explore vibrant, cosmopolitan Vancouver at leisure
- Experience the elegance of rail travel on board VIA Rail’s “The Canadian”
- Soak up views of Canada’s Rocky Mountains available only to train passengers
- Search for local wildlife such as moose and coyote in Jasper
- Enjoy picture-perfect Lake Louise and 360-degree views from the Banff Gondola
Sample Itinerary
9 days/8 nights
This itinerary concludes in Calgary
Can operate in reverse.
Day 1
Vancouver
Make your own way to your Vancouver hotel. Afternoon at leisure.
Day 2
Onboard VIA Rail
At Vancouver Pacific Central Station board VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” for the journey to Jasper. Travel through amazing Rocky Mountain scenery including Hell’s Gate, Suicide Rapids and the Cisco Bridges above the Fraser River. Overnight on board.
Days 3/4
Jasper
Full breakfast and lunch on board before arriving Jasper station. Transfer to your hotel (transfer provided for standard and deluxe categories only). On day 4 enjoy a morning small group tour in search of wildlife like bear, moose, elk and goats. Remainder of day at leisure. Overnight Jasper. BL (day 3 only)
Day 5
Lake Louise
Drive the stunning Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise, the “Jewel of the Rockies” set against a mountainous backdrop. Overnight in Lake Louise.
Days 6/7
Banff
Morning departure on scheduled service to Banff where you will be dropped off at your hotel. Explore Banff at leisure. Included today is admission to the Whyte Museum. On day 7 enjoy a Banff sightseeing tour, the Bow Valley, and a visit to the Banff Gondola for a 360° view of the surrounding lakes, valleys and mountains. Overnight Banff.
Day 8
Calgary
Day at leisure to enjoy winter outdoor activities or shopping before your scheduled service to Calgary and transfer to your hotel. Admission included for Calgary Tower. Overnight at your hotel.
Day 9
Tour ends Calgary
Day at leisure until your transfer (not included) to Calgary airport. Tour ends.
This tour also operates in reverse.
Canada Tours & Cruises
Our Canada tours include a range of hotels, wilderness lodges, rail tours, cruises and adventures which can be combined in an itinerary tailor made to suit your interests, style and budget. Choose from one of our featured itineraries or let us tailor make an itinerary to suit your interests, style and budget.
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