Circle Journeys Exploring the Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer
This roundtrip train tour through the Canadian Rockies, featuring two incredible Rocky Mountaineer train journeys, promises an unforgettable experience filled with stunning scenery and exciting highlights. Here’s a glimpse of what this journey has to offer:
Highlights of Your Trip:
- Vancouver: Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Vancouver, where you can explore its diverse neighborhoods, parks, and cultural attractions.
- Whistler: Travel by rail to Whistler, a world-renowned resort town known for its outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and the famous Whistler Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Rocky Mountaineer Train Journeys: Experience two journeys aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train, renowned for its luxurious accommodations and panoramic views. The train takes you through some of the most magnificent scenery in the world.
- Banff: Explore the charming town of Banff, located in Banff National Park. Discover the stunning landscapes, pristine lakes, and take a ride on the Banff Gondola for panoramic views of the Rockies.
- Jasper: Continue your journey to Jasper, a picturesque town nestled in Jasper National Park. Enjoy the natural beauty of the park, including its famous glacial lakes and the opportunity to take in the breathtaking sights along the Icefields Parkway.
- Sightseeing along the Icefields Parkway: Travel one of the most scenic routes in the world, the Icefields Parkway, which offers incredible views of glaciers, mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife.
Activity Choices: This tour provides a great selection of activity choices, allowing you to tailor your experience to your interests. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, cultural explorations, or simply taking in the natural beauty, there are options for everyone.
Discovery Circle Journey Banff
From $5188 USD per person based on double
This 9-day tour offers a magnificent journey through the Canadian Rockies, combining two popular Rocky Mountaineer train routes, First Passage to the West and Journey through the Clouds. Here’s a detailed itinerary of your adventure:
Day 1 – Vancouver:
- Arrive in Vancouver, a picturesque coastal city.
- Spend the day exploring Vancouver’s attractions, such as Stanley Park or Granville Island.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 – Vancouver to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Embark on your Rocky Mountaineer adventure after you explore Vancouver and depart the city.
- Experience dramatic scenery changes, from lush green fields in the Fraser Valley to desert-like landscapes in the BC interior.
- Highlights include Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the Thompson River.
- Overnight in Kamloops. (Breakfast and lunch on board)
Day 3 – Kamloops to Jasper (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Continue your rail journey, heading north and east towards the Canadian Rockies.
- Enjoy breathtaking views, including Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.
- Arrive in Jasper, your destination for the night.
Overnight in Jasper. (Breakfast and lunch on board)
Day 4 – Jasper:
- Enjoy a free day in Jasper to explore or engage in various activities in this stunning national park.
- Overnight in Jasper.
Day 5 – Jasper to Banff via Icefields Parkway:
- Travel from Jasper to Banff along the renowned Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most scenic highways.
- Visit the Columbia Icefield and take an Ice Explorer to the Athabasca Glacier.
- Lunch at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre.
- Arrive in Banff, your overnight stop.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 6 – Banff:
- Enjoy a day of leisure in Banff to explore the town and its surroundings.
- Optional activities include Sulphur Mountain Gondola or a visit to the Banff hot springs.
- Overnight in Banff.
Day 7 – Banff to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Reboard the Rocky Mountaineer in Banff, after you explore Banff, for a journey to Kamloops.
- Traverse the Canadian Rockies, witnessing iconic peaks, mountain passes, tunnels, and more.
- Highlights include the Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon, and the Continental Divide.
- Overnight in Kamloops. (Breakfast and lunch on board)
Day 8 – Kamloops to Vancouver (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Continue westbound toward Vancouver, experiencing diverse landscapes.
- Witness the Fraser Canyon’s steep slopes, Hell’s Gate, and the lush Fraser Valley.
- Arrive in Vancouver, your journey’s endpoint.
Overnight in Vancouver. (Breakfast and lunch on board)
Day 9 – Vancouver:
- Your journey concludes upon checking out from your Vancouver hotel.
This comprehensive tour combines the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies with the luxury and comfort of the Rocky Mountaineer train. It’s a fantastic way to explore the natural wonders and charming mountain towns of this iconic region.
Grand Adventure Circle Journey
From $8593 USD per person based on double
This 14-day tour offers an immersive rail journey through the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, combining two of Rocky Mountaineer’s most sought-after routes, Rainforest to Gold Rush and First Passage to the West. Here’s a detailed itinerary of your remarkable adventure:
Day 1 – Vancouver:
- Begin your journey by arriving in Vancouver, a scenic coastal city.
- Spend the day exploring Vancouver’s attractions and enjoying the stunning natural surroundings.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 – Vancouver:
- Enjoy a day of free time in Vancouver to relax or explore based on your interests.
- Explore neighborhoods like historic Gastown, lively Yaletown, or take a walk along the Stanley Park Seawall.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 3 – Vancouver to Whistler (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Embark on a breathtaking rail journey through the Sea to Sky Corridor.
- Travel aboard the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to the resort town of Whistler.
- Enjoy spectacular views of Howe Sound, the Coast Mountains, and other natural wonders.
- Arrive in Whistler in the early afternoon, with the rest of the day at your leisure.
- Overnight in Whistler.
Day 4 – Whistler to Quesnel (Rocky Mountaineer):
- A motorcoach will take you to the Pemberton train station, where you’ll board the Rocky Mountaineer.
- Travel to the charming rural town of Quesnel, experiencing varied landscapes along the way.
- Enjoy breathtaking views, including Anderson Lake and the Fraser Canyon.
- Arrive in Quesnel for the night.
- Overnight in Quesnel.
Day 5 – Quesnel to Jasper (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Continue your eastward journey to Jasper National Park.
- Travel through the forests of northern British Columbia, with opportunities to spot wildlife.
- Pass Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and enter Alberta.
- Arrive in Jasper, your overnight stop.
- Overnight in Jasper.
Day 6 – Jasper:
- Enjoy a free day in Jasper to explore the town and the national park at your own pace.
- Jasper offers a range of activities, from relaxation to adventure.
- Overnight in Jasper.
Day 7 – Jasper to Lake Louise via Icefields Parkway:
- Travel from Jasper to Lake Louise along the scenic Icefields Parkway, renowned for its natural beauty.
- Explore highlights like Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefield, Glacier Skywalk, and Athabasca Falls.
- Ride an Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier to learn about its geological features.
- Lunch is provided at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre.
- Arrive in Lake Louise in the late afternoon.
- Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 8 – Lake Louise:
- Spend the day exploring beautiful Lake Louise on your own.
- After lunch, embark on a half-day transfer to Yoho National Park to witness its natural wonders.
- Attractions include the Spiral Tunnels, Emerald Lake, and a natural rock bridge over the Kicking Horse River.
- Transfer ends in Banff.
- Overnight in Banff.
Day 9 – Banff:
- Enjoy a day of free time in Banff to relax or participate in activities of your choice.
- Options include taking the gondola to Sulphur Mountain’s summit or visiting the Banff hot springs.
- Overnight in Banff.
Day 10 – Banff to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Reboard the Rocky Mountaineer in Banff for a journey to Kamloops.
- Traverse the Canadian Rockies, passing through tunnels, over mountain passes, and along lakeshores.
- Highlights include the Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon, and the Continental Divide.
- Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 11 – Kamloops to Vancouver (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Continue westbound to Vancouver, witnessing diverse scenery changes along the way.
- Marvel at the dramatic landscapes, from desert-like environments to lush forests.
- Highlights include the Thompson River, Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon, and more.
- Your rail journey concludes in Vancouver.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 12 – Vancouver:
- Enjoy another day in Vancouver with free time for relaxation or self-guided exploration.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
- Day 13 – Vancouver:
- Spend another day in Vancouver at your leisure to soak in the city’s charm and natural beauty.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 14 – Vancouver:
- Your journey concludes upon checking out from your Vancouver hotel.
This comprehensive tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the majestic Canadian Rockies and experience the luxury and comfort of Rocky Mountaineer train travel. From vibrant cities to stunning natural landscapes, this adventure showcases the best of Western Canada.
Best of the Rockies Circle Journey
From $7923 USD per person based on double
This 15-day Circle Journey offers an extensive exploration of the Canadian Rockies, combining two of Rocky Mountaineer’s renowned routes, Rainforest to Gold Rush and First Passage to the West. Here’s a detailed itinerary of your unforgettable adventure:
Day 1 – Vancouver:
- Your journey begins with your arrival in the beautiful coastal city of Vancouver.
- Spend your first day exploring the city at your own pace, from discovering Stanley Park to visiting Granville Island.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 – Vancouver:
- Enjoy a free day in Vancouver, allowing you to relax or pursue activities of your choice.
- Explore historic Gastown, dine in lively Yaletown, or take a leisurely walk along the Stanley Park Seawall.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 3 – Vancouver to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Embark on a scenic rail journey from Vancouver to Kamloops, situated in the heart of British Columbia’s interior.
- Experience dramatic changes in landscapes, from lush green fields to forests and river canyons.
- Highlights include the thrilling Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the picturesque Thompson River.
- Your day ends as the train travels along Kamloops Lake and arrives in Kamloops.
- Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 4 – Kamloops to Banff (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Continue eastward towards the majestic Canadian Rockies and Alberta.
- Witness ever-changing scenery, including rolling hills, mountain passes, and historic rail tunnels.
- Highlights include the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway at Craigellachie, the climb over Rogers Pass, and Kicking Horse Canyon.
- Arrive in Banff, a resort town nestled in the Rockies.
- Overnight in Banff.
Day 5 – Banff:
- Enjoy a full day in Banff with free time to relax or engage in various activities.
- Options range from taking the gondola to Sulphur Mountain’s summit to wildlife adventures.
- Overnight in Banff.
Day 6 – Banff:
- Explore Banff for a second day at your leisure, giving you ample time to soak in its charm and natural beauty.
- Overnight in Banff.
Day 7 – Banff to Lake Louise:
- Embark on a morning half-day transfer, taking you through Yoho National Park to witness its natural wonders.
- Attractions include the Spiral Tunnels, Emerald Lake, and a natural rock bridge over the Kicking Horse River.
- Your transfer concludes in Lake Louise, where you have the afternoon to appreciate the stunning surroundings.
- Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 8 – Lake Louise:
- Spend the day at your leisure in Lake Louise, exploring, relaxing, or engaging in various activities.
- Discover local wildlife, paddle on the lake by canoe, or simply revel in the natural beauty.
- Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 9 – Lake Louise to Jasper (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Continue your journey from Lake Louise to Jasper via a sightseeing tour on the Icefields Parkway.
- Explore highlights such as Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefield, Glacier Skywalk, and Athabasca Falls.
- Experience a ride on an Ice Explorer to the Athabasca Glacier’s middle, learning about its geological features.
- Lunch is provided at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre.
- Arrive in Jasper in the late afternoon.
- Overnight in Jasper.
Day 10 – Jasper:
- Enjoy a full day in Jasper with free time for relaxation or engaging in activities of your choice.
- Jasper offers a range of experiences within its national park.
- Overnight in Jasper.
Day 11 – Jasper to Quesnel (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Board the Rocky Mountaineer to visit Jasper before embarking on a journey to Quesnel, the gateway to the North Cariboo.
- Traverse the stunning Rocky Mountain Trench, surrounded by steep Rocky and Cariboo Mountains.
- Spot wildlife, including moose, caribou, and bears, in the forests of northern British Columbia.
- Pass through significant points such as Mount Robson, Yellowhead Pass, and Moose Lake.
- Your day concludes as the train follows the Fraser River into Quesnel.
- Overnight in Quesnel.
Day 12 – Quesnel to Whistler (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Travel southwest to Whistler, the all-season resort town famous for outdoor activities.
- Enjoy diverse and breathtaking scenery, from the Fraser Canyon’s desert-like conditions to the lush Pemberton Valley.
- Highlights include sweeping views of the Fraser Canyon and crossing the towering Deep Creek Bridge.
- Follow the shores of Seton Lake and Anderson Lake.
- Your rail journey ends at Pemberton Station, followed by a motorcoach transfer to your Whistler accommodation.
- Overnight in Whistler.
Day 13 – Whistler to Vancouver (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Spend the morning exploring Whistler Village at your own pace.
- In the afternoon, reboard the Rocky Mountaineer for a return journey to Vancouver via the Sea to Sky Corridor.
- Enjoy captivating views of Cheakamus Canyon, Mount Garibaldi, Brandywine Falls, and more.
- Savor an afternoon meal served canapé style.
- Your rail journey concludes in North Vancouver, with a transfer to your downtown Vancouver accommodation.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 14 – Vancouver:
- Enjoy an additional day in Vancouver with free time to relax or pursue your chosen activities.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 15 – Vancouver:
- Your memorable journey concludes upon checking out from your Vancouver hotel.
This comprehensive Circle Journey allows you to experience the very best of the Canadian Rockies, from vibrant cities to stunning natural landscapes, all while indulging in the luxury and comfort of Rocky Mountaineer train travel.
Discovery Circle Journey Lake Louise
From $5729 per person based on double occupancy
This 11-day journey takes you through the stunning landscapes of the Canadian Rockies on two of Rocky Mountaineer’s most popular rail routes, the Journey Through The Clouds and the First Passage to the West. Here’s a detailed itinerary of your adventure:
Day 1 – Vancouver:
- Your journey begins in Vancouver, a picturesque coastal city.
- Upon arrival, take the opportunity to explore Vancouver’s scenic attractions, such as Stanley Park and Granville Island.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 – Vancouver:
- Enjoy a free day in Vancouver to relax or partake in activities of your choice.
- Explore historic Gastown, dine in lively Yaletown, or take a leisurely walk along the Stanley Park Seawall.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 3 – Vancouver to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Embark on a memorable train journey from Vancouver to Kamloops, located in British Columbia’s interior.
- Witness dramatic changes in scenery, from the Fraser Valley’s green fields to forests, river canyons, and desert-like landscapes.
- Notable highlights include the thrilling Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the picturesque Thompson River.
- Your day concludes as the train follows the shores of Kamloops Lake into the town of Kamloops.
- Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 4 – Kamloops to Jasper (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Continue your rail adventure towards the mighty Canadian Rockies and Alberta.
- Marvel at the ever-changing landscapes as you follow the North Thompson River through the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains.
- Highlights include Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Pyramid Falls, and the Yellowhead Pass into Jasper National Park.
- Arrive in the charming resort town of Jasper in the evening.
- Overnight in Jasper.
Day 5 – Jasper:
- Spend a full day in Jasper with free time for relaxation or engaging in various activities.
- Jasper offers a wide range of experiences in its stunning national park.
- Overnight in Jasper.
Day 6 – Jasper to Lake Louise (Icefields Parkway):
- Travel from Jasper to Lake Louise on one of the world’s most scenic highways, the Icefields Parkway.
- Enjoy breathtaking highlights, including Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefield, Glacier Skywalk, and Athabasca Falls.
- Experience an Ice Explorer ride to the middle of the Athabasca Glacier to learn about its geological features.
- Lunch is provided at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre.
- Afterward, make a brief stop at Bow Lake before arriving in Lake Louise in the late afternoon.
- Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 7 – Lake Louise:
- Enjoy a full day in Lake Louise with free time for relaxation or your chosen activities.
- Discover local wildlife, paddle a canoe on the lake, or simply unwind amidst the natural beauty.
- Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 8 – Lake Louise to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Board the Rocky Mountaineer in Lake Louise for a journey to Kamloops in British Columbia’s Interior.
- Traverse ever-changing scenery, from the iconic Canadian Rockies to mountain passes, tunnels, and lakeshores.
- Highlights include the Continental Divide, Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon, Rogers Pass, and Craigellachie.
- Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 9 – Kamloops to Vancouver (Rocky Mountaineer):
- Your journey continues westward towards the coastal city of Vancouver.
- Witness dramatic changes in landscapes, from the B.C. Interior’s desert-like environment to river canyons and pristine forests.
- Enjoy the sights of the Cascade and Coast Mountains, as well as the lush Fraser Valley fields.
- Highlights include the steep slopes, rock sheds along the Thompson River, and the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon.
- Your rail journey concludes upon arrival in Vancouver in the evening.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 10 – Vancouver:
- Enjoy another free day in Vancouver to relax or engage in activities of your choice.
- Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 11 – Vancouver:
- Your memorable journey concludes upon checking out from your Vancouver hotel.
This 11-day adventure offers you the opportunity to explore the stunning Canadian Rockies, from vibrant cities to breathtaking natural landscapes, all while experiencing the luxury and comfort of Rocky Mountaineer train travel.