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Rockies Southern Rail Excursion
Calgary to Vancouver
$4,484.00 – $9,219.00 CAD
Journey through the Canadian Rockies on a 5-day Rocky Mountaineer adventure from Calgary to Vancouver, following historic railway routes where you’ll witness the engineering marvel of the Spiral Tunnels and the breathtaking vistas of Rogers Pass before exploring the beauty of Banff and Lake Louise on a guided coach tour through their stunning landscapes.
Tour Includes:
- Day 1: Calgary to Banff by Motorcoach
- Day 2 -3: Sightseeing in Banff and Jasper National Park
- Day 4 – 5: Rocky Mountaineer 2-day train trip from Lake Louise to Vancouver
- Hotel: 4 nights of hotel accommodation
- Meals: 5 breakfasts, 2 lunch
- Luggage handling: Kamloops
- Rail station transfers: Lake Louise, Kamloops, and Vancouver
- Excursions/Activities: Banff Minnewanka Lake Cruise, Banff Gondola ride, Ice Explorer tour, Glacier Skywalk, Johnston Canyon (some departures)
- Other: Toll fee & Park Pass
- Rail Service: GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf
Once Way (Calgary to Vancouver) – 5-Day Rocky Mountaineer Rail & Motorcoach Tour
Main Highlights:
- Experience the Rocky Mountaineer train journey from Lake Louise to Vancouver.
- Guided motorcoach tour through Banff and Jasper National Parks, including Lake Louise.
Walking / Hiking Difficulty: This tour does not require much walking, except for the optional Johnston Canyon and Maligne Canyon trails, where guests can choose to do a short loop. Our buses stop close to the attractions, ensuring easy access. Most of our clients are between the ages of 50 and 80 and find the tour manageable.
Attractions & Excursions:
- Scenic Landmarks & Excursios: Columbia Icefields (with Ice Explorer tour plu Glcier Skywalk), Bow Lake, Banff, Johnston Canyon, Moraine Lake, Lake Louise. Sulphur Mountain (with Gondola ride), Banff Springs Hotel, Bow Falls, Glacier National Park and Fraser Valley.
Important Information
- Departure & Conclusion:
- Depart: 12:30 pm, Calgary airport. Hotel pickup times vary and are available at the following locations. Example: Marriott – 1:35 pm
- Conclude: Approximately 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM at Rocky Mountaineer Station (train delay possible). Hotel drop-off available
- Transportation
- Deluxe 56-passenger motorcoach, Reclining seats for maximum comfort, Onboard washroom, Audio/video facilities
- Tour Guide
- Local expert guides, English only, Extensive travel and tour guiding experience
- Included Attractions
- Iconic landmarks:
- Banff
- Lake Louise
- Icefields Parkway
- Wildlife viewing
- Iconic landmarks:
- Gratuities
- Included during the Rocky Mountaineer 2 day train trip
- Not included during the motorcoach tour.
- Recommended: $6–$8 per day for each driver and tour guide
Day 1: Calgary to Banff - Scenic Motorcoach Transfer
Departure: 11:00 am
Arrival: Subject to departure time
Calgary to Banff trip begins with rolling hills and wide-open prairies, providing a glimpse of the vastness of Alberta’s landscape. As you continue, the scenery becomes more dramatic, with the Rocky Mountains gradually coming into view. You’ll pass through charming towns like Canmore, where the mountains loom larger and the air gets crisper. Overnight in Banff.
Day 2: Banff National Park Sightseeing
Departure: 8:30 am
Arrival: 6:00 – 7:30 pm
Prepare yourself for an exhilarating day of sightseeing and activities in Banff National Park. As we make our way to Lake Louise, we will pause at Johnston Canyon for a leisurely hike (optional) along the trail that guides us to the breathtaking Lower Falls. While at Lake Louise, you’ll find numerous viewpoints offering splendid photo opportunities of the majestic Victoria Glacier towering over the lake. In the afternoon, our adventure continues as we explore other notable attractions in the Rockies, including Moraine Lake (Seasonal, some departures) or Lake Minniwanka (Monday Departures), Banff Springs Hotel, and Bow Falls. Don’t forget to take advantage of the gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for a breathtaking panoramic view of Banff town and its surrounding or Upper Hot Springs for a soothing soak in the hot, mineral-rich water. Overnight in Banff. [B]
Day 3: Lake Louise to Columbia Icefield
Today, you have two options to choose from. You can join our guided Icefield Parkway excursion, which includes an exciting interpretive Ice Explorer tour on Athabasca Glacier and a visit to the breathtaking Glacier Skywalk. Alternatively, you can spend the day at your leisure, exploring the charming town of Lake Louise. Overnight in Lake Louise [B]
Day 4: Lake Louise to Kamloops - Rocky Mountaineer
Departure: 8:20 am
Arrival: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the mountain town of Lake Louis to Kamloops in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. Your journey offers a spectacular range of scenery as you travel between the high peaks of the Canadian Rockies, over mountain passes, and through remarkable tunnels, along rocky lakeshores, and across the ranchlands of the interior. Today’s highlights include the Continental Divide, the engineering marvel Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon, Rogers Pass, Craigellachie where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, and of course the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Overnight in Kamloops. [B] [L]
Day 5: Kamloops to Vancouver - Rocky Mountaineer
Departure: 7:30 am
Arrival: 6:00 – 7:00 pm
Your journey continues west towards the Pacific Ocean and the coastal city of Vancouver. On today’s journey, you will again see dramatic changes in scenery from the desert-like environment of the interior, through winding river canyons and pristine forests, to the Coastal Mountains and the lush green fields of the Fraser River Valley. Highlights include the steep slopes and snow sheds along the Thompson River and the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in Fraser Canyon. Your journey ends on arrival in Vancouver this evening. [B] [L]
Ice Explorer tour on Athabasca Glcier
Experience the awe-inspiring Ice Explorer tour on the Athabasca Glacier, located along the breathtaking Icefields Parkway. This unique adventure takes you onto the surface of a 10,000-year-old glacier aboard a specially designed Ice Explorer vehicle. Marvel at the vast expanse of ice and rugged mountain peaks as your knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights about the glacier’s history, formation, and the impact of climate change.
Step out onto the glacier itself, where you can feel the chill of ancient ice beneath your feet and even drink pure glacial water. This unforgettable journey offers a rare opportunity to connect with nature’s majesty.
Gondola ride to the Sulphur Mountain
Soar to incredible heights on the Banff Gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. This eight-minute journey offers breathtaking views of Banff, the Bow Valley, and six surrounding mountain ranges. Glide above dense pine forests in a modern, glass-enclosed gondola cabin, perfect for capturing stunning photos.
At the summit, explore the interpretive center, take in panoramic vistas from the observation deck, or walk the Sulphur Mountain boardwalk to the historic Cosmic Ray Station. Whether it’s for a peaceful escape, thrilling adventure, or unparalleled views, the Banff Gondola promises a memorable experience amidst the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Gondola ride to the Sulphur Mountain
Relax and rejuvenate at the historic Banff Upper Hot Springs, nestled high on Sulphur Mountain. These natural mineral-rich waters offer a soothing soak at a perfect temperature, surrounded by stunning views of the Rocky Mountains.
The springs have been a cherished destination for travelers since the early 1900s, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. Modern amenities include changing facilities, a café, and swimsuit rentals, ensuring a comfortable visit. Whether you’re easing sore muscles after a day of exploring or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Banff Upper Hot Springs provide a perfect blend of relaxation and nature.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time does the tour depart from Calgary?
A: Departure is at 12:30 PM from Calgary Airport, arriving at 8:30 PM in Jasper.
Hotel pickup times vary and are available at the following locations. Example: Marriott – 1:35 PM
Q: What time does the tour end in Vancouver?
A: Approximately 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM at Rocky Mountaineer Station (train delay possible). Hotel drop-off available.
Q: How far is the station from Downtown Vancouver?
A: It is a 10-minute taxi ride.
Q: How long is the train ride from Lake Louise to Vancouver?
A: The journey spans 2 days, with each day taking approximately 11–12 hours.
Q: Do you stop along the way?
A: The train slows down for better views of important landmarks but does not make stops.
Q: What meals are included during the train ride?
A: Two breakfasts and two lunches are included.
Q: What is the deposit, and when is the balance due?
A: A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 per person is required. The balance is due 60 days before the tour departure.
Q: Can I book optional activities on the day of the tour?
A: The Ice Explorer tour, Glacier Skywalk, and Sulphur Mountain Gondola ride are already included in the tour.
Q: What language is the tour conducted in?
A: The tour is conducted in English only, with local mountain tour guides.
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