West Coast Explorer

Vancouver to Calgary

$4,415.00$8,153.00 CAD

This 5-day Rocky Mountaineer journey is an excellent option for those looking to spend time in Calgary and extend their stay in Banff or Lake Louise. It seamlessly combines the Vancouver-to-Jasper train experience with a fully guided motorcoach tour through the Canadian Rockies, creating a perfectly balanced and unforgettable adventure.

Tour Includes:

  • Day 1 – 2: Rocky Mountaineer 2-day train trip from Vancouver to Jasper
  • Day 3 – 4: A fully guided motorcoach tour in the Canadian Rockies, including Jasper, Banff, and Lake Louise
  • Day 5: Banff to Calgary by motorcoach
  • Hotel: 4 nights of hotel accommodation
  • Meals: 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches
  • Luggage handling: Kamloops
  • Rail station transfers:  Vancouver, Kamloops, and Jasper
  • Excursions/Activities**: Ice Explorer tour on Athabasca Glacier, Gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain / Swim in the Banff Upper Hot Springs
  • Other: Toll fee & Park Pass
  • Rail Service: GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf

# of pax

One-way Tour: 5-Day Rocky Mountaineer Train & Motorcoach Tour

Main Highlights:

  • Experience the Rocky Mountaineer train journey from Vancouver to Jasper.
  • 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: Fraser Valley, Hope townsite, Mount Robson, Jasper, Maligne Canyon, Athabasca Falls. Columbia Icefields (with Ice Explorer tour), Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, Banff, Johnston Canyon, Moraine Lake, Lake Louise. Sulphur Mountain (with Gondola ride), Banff Springs Hotel, Bow Falls, Glacier National Park.

Important Information

  • Departure & Conclusion
    • Depart: 8:00 AM from Rocky Mountaineer Station Vancouver (hotel pick-up available)
    • Conclude: Arrive in Calgary, approximately 2 and a half hours from Banff. Starting from 6:15 am
      Other departure times : 7:45 am, 9:15 am, 10:45 am, 12:15 pm, 1:45 pm, 3:15 pm, 4:45 pm. Hotel drop-off time is approx. 3 hours.
  • 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:
      • Jasper
      • Banff
      • Lake Louise
      • Icefields Parkway
    • Wildlife viewing
  • 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 guid

Day 1: Vancouver to Kamloops - Rocky Mountaineer


Departure: 7:30 am
Arrival: 5:35 pm

Travel aboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the coastal city of Vancouver to the interior’s largest city, Kamloops. On today’s journey, you will see dramatic changes in scenery from the lush green fields of the Fraser River Valley, through forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coastal Mountains, to the desert- like environment of the interior. Highlights include the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and snow sheds along the Thompson River. Your day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along the shores of Kamloops Lake and into your overnight destination, Kamloops. [B] [L]

Departure: 6:45 am
Arrival: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Continue your journey to the mighty Canadian Rockies and Alberta, surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Follow the banks of the North Thompson River through the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains, approaching the majestic peaks of the Continental Divide. Highlights include Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Pyramid Falls, and the climb over Yellowhead Pass into Jasper National Park. Arrive in the town of Jasper in the evening, where you will spend the night. [B] [L]

Start your morning with a refreshing hike (optional) through the Maligne Canyon, a remarkable limestone gorge adorned with six narrow bridges and picturesque waterfalls. Continuing our journey south along the magnificent Icefield Parkway, often hailed as one of the most beautiful highways in the world, we will explore its must-see attractions, including Athabasca Falls, Peyto Lake (seasonal), and Crowfoot Glacier. At the Columbia Icefield, ride the Ice Explorer** on Athabasca Glacier. Overnight in Banff. [B]

Prepare yourself for another 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), 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

To Calgary Airport:  Starting from 6:15 am (many departures). Departures that include hotel drop-off
Arrival: Approximately 2 and a half hours
Other departure times : 7:45 am, 9:15 am, 10:45 am, 12:15 pm, 1:45 pm, 3:15 pm, 4:45 pm. Travel time is approx. 3 hours.

Leaving Banff, you’ll head east on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), bidding farewell to the majestic peaks and alpine scenery. Calgary showcases the transition from the mountainous terrain to the rolling foothills and eventually the open prairies. The landscape becomes more expansive, with wide-open spaces and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. [B]

Enjoy free time in the heart of downtown Calgary.

Calgary drop-off locations: Calgary Airport, Delta Calgary Downtown, International Hotel, Fairmont Palliser Hotel, Westin Calgary, Calgary Marriott Hotel, Sandman City Centre. **Please choose one of these locations, drop-off at other locations will not be provided.

Tour Variations for Day 4:

1. Extend your stay in Lake Louise/Banff. Extra accommodation can be arranged at an additional cost. Flexible departure to Calgary.

2. Fly to your next destination from Calgary. 

★★ For these optional activities, an additional fee will apply
★ Departure and arrival times may vary; itinerary subject to change

Ice Explorer tour on Athabasca Glacier

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.

Sulphur Mountain-Gondola ride

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.

Upper Hot Springs

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.

[wptb id=2160]

Frequently Asked Questions
(Please refer to the terms & conditions for cancellation policies and additional information.)

  • Q: What time does the tour leave?
    A: Depart from Rocky Mountaineer Station at 7:30 AM from 1755 Cottrell Street.
  • Q: How far is the station from Downtown Vancouver?
    A: It is a 10-minute taxi ride.
  • Q: What time does the tour arrive in Calgary?
    A: Arrival: Approximately 2 and a half hours from Banff
    Departure times : 6:30 am, 7:45 am, 9:15 am, 10:45 am, 12:15 pm, 1:45 pm, 3:15 pm, 4:45 pm. Travel time is approx. 3 hours...
  • Q: How long is the train ride from Vancouver to Jasper?
    A: 2 days, each day approximately 11-12 hours.
  • Q: Does this tour involve a lot of walking?
    A: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.
  • Q: Do you stop along the way?
    A: The train slows down for better views of important landmarks but does not stop.
  • Q: What meals are included during the train ride?
    A: Two breakfasts and two lunches.
  • 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: We recommend booking optional activities when paying the balance, as availability is not guaranteed for later bookings.
  • Q: What language is the tour conducted in?
    A: The tour is conducted in English only, with local mountain tour guides.

Best Sightseeing...

Family-Friendly Adventures Await!