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Journey Through the Clouds Grand Adventure

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You are viewing the 2024 itinerary. Select your departure year
20242025
11 days From $4,152 per person
4.5 stars(10 reviews)
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Venture into the heart of the Canadian Rockies, where wide-open skies, incredible mountain peaks, and colorful, glacier-fed lakes host countless adventures, aboard the Rocky Mountaineer.

Travel on your own following a well-planned itinerary

2024 Tour code: RV-JCLE-24

About the tour

Few places in North America speak to nature lovers, city slickers, and adventure seekers like beautiful western Canada. Its intriguing mixture of cosmopolitan cities and mountain resort towns set a backdrop for grand explorations, and this trip is your chance to experience some of the best. Bookended by time in coastal Vancouver and culture-filled Calgary, this independent journey dives into the natural beauty held in the Canadian Rockies by train. Venture from Vancouver, through British Columbia to Kamloops, and across the Continental Divide into Alberta and eventually Jasper National Park aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. The train's domed-glass carriages and daylight-only route provide a sightseeing showcase as you travel.

On arrival in the mountains, enjoy time in Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff, with plenty of time to explore independently. Sightseeing excursions are woven throughout the journey, introducing you to places like Icefields Parkway, home to Columbia Icefields and the Athabasca Glacier, and Yoho National Park, whose lands are filled with scenic points of interest. You also have a chance to dive into Banff National Park's offerings on a guided sightseeing tour that features a ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain aboard the Banff Gondola. Wrap up your adventure with an overnight stay in "Cowtown," Calgary. Discover the best of the Canadian Rockies by rail, air, and land.

Highlights

What’s included

Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive in Vancouver

Vancouver is the largest city in British Columbia and the beginning point for your journey through the clouds, which explores the vast western Canadian wilderness. On arrival today, transfer to your hotel for check-in, then take the day to get acquainted with your new surroundings. This city is filled with lively neighborhoods, such as Chinatown, historic Gastown, and Granville Island, and is a mecca for fantastic art, cuisine, and culture. Overnight Vancouver.

Day 2 - At Leisure in Vancouver

Spend the day delving into Vancouver's diverse offerings at your own pace. Stanley Park is a must-visit locale in the city, with its lush grounds and incredible Seawall walking path. Taste your way through the Granville Island Market, or join a Hop-on/Hop-off tour to experience an assortment of the city's landmark sites. For an adventure outside the city, you could ferry to Victoria, book a seaplane over the Strait of Georgia, or head out to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park just north of the city in the towering coastal rainforest. Overnight Vancouver.

Day 3 - Vancouver to Kamloops

This morning, your journey toward the Canadian Rockies begins as you transfer to the train station from your hotel to board the Rocky Mountaineer. This impressive train promises an excellent perspective on the passing landscape from its domed-glass carriages and exclusive route through British Columbia and Alberta. Settle into your comfortable reclining seat, and watch the show unfold.

Vancouver's sky-scraping buildings fade into the backdrop as the train heads into the wilderness. The scenery changes from mile to mile, transforming from the urban atmosphere of Vancouver to the lush Fraser Valley and forested Coast and Cascade Mountains. As the train reaches British Columbia's interior, the arid, desert-like vistas are like none other you have seen today. Route highlights you can look forward to between Vancouver and Kamloops include Hell's Gate in Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds surrounding the Thompson River. After a day of travel, the train stops in Kamloops, and you have the evening to enjoy its unique surroundings at leisure. Overnight Kamloops.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 - Kamloops to Jasper

Back on the rails, your journey toward Jasper continues today aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. Enjoy delicious onboard meals and included snacks and drinks as the route unfolds, all the while surrounded by panoramic views. The train begins alongside the North Thompson River, with the landscape becoming increasingly lush and forested as the day unfolds. Climb through the Monashee and Caribou Mountains, gaining elevation and, eventually, crossing the Continental Divide into Alberta. Marvel at the coniferous forests and dramatic mountain peaks as the train nears Jasper, with views of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Pyramid Falls, and Yellowhead Pass making your final miles on the train picture perfect. The Rocky Mountaineer stations in Jasper National Park this evening. If you are up to it after your long day of travel, wait for the sun to sink behind the mountains and the stars to fill the sky. Jasper National Park is the world's second-largest Dark Sky Preserve and, thus, provides memorable stargazing experiences. Overnight Jasper. 

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch
Day 5 - At Leisure in Jasper

Spend the day enjoying the sheer majesty of Jasper National Park. Its protected lands span over 2.775 million acres; within them, there is no shortage of mesmerizing sights to behold. During your free day, you may wish to look upon the town from above on the Jasper SkyTram or set out on the park's extensive hiking trail network to get an up-close look. Opt to add a half day tour exploring the highlights of Jasper National Park including a cruise on Maligne Lake, home to Spirit Island. Together, this lake and its famous island are one of the most photographed sights in Canada! Many excursion options are available through the park, as well, including wildlife-spotting expeditions that set out in search of moose, bears, and the other magnificent animals that call this park home. Overnight Jasper.

 

Day 6 - Jasper to Lake Louise

Today sees you along one of the most scenic highways in the world: Icefields Parkway. This 144-mile byway stretches Jasper and Banff National Parks and showcases towering mountains, expansive glaciers, and some of the most incredible bodies of water you could imagine. Keep your camera ready during the scenic drive; awe-inspiring sights abound. Shortly after leaving Jasper, look over Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls. Continue through the mountain scenery to the Columbia Icefield, where the journey pauses. This icefield is one of the largest ice accumulations south of the Arctic Circle, and you have the chance to explore one of its "toes," the Athabasca Glacier, aboard an Ice Explorer vehicle. The ride takes you atop the glacier and presents facts about the region's geology. After, the vehicle returns to the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Center, where lunch is provided, and you may walk out over Sunwapta Valley on the Glacier Skywalk.

Reboard your motorcoach with even more points of interest ahead, including a stop at Bow Lake before your excursion ends in Lake Louise. Arriving this afternoon, you have the remainder of the day to hike, kayak, or soak in the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise's unmatched ambiance. Overnight Lake Louise.

Includes
  • Lunch
Day 7 - At Leisure in Lake Louise

Enjoy a full day relaxing lakeside in Lake Louise. This region is profoundly scenic and is a dream to photograph or soak into your memory. Mounts Victoria, Lefroy, and Temple are just a few of the peaks you can see from the lake, and you also have a remarkable view of Victoria Glacier. Perhaps set out on foot on the Fairview Lookout Trail, a short and sweet hike that leads to a lookout over the lake and chateau, or take to one of the more challenging trails, such as the Plain of Six Glaciers, for a full-day hiking expedition. Consider riding aboard the Lake Louise Gondola for a different vantage point on all the scenery. Of course, you could always rent a kayak or canoe to experience the region's beauty from the water. Overnight Lake Louise.

Day 8 - Lake Louise, Yoho National Park & Banff

Begin your day with a leisurely morning to continue experiencing the best of Lake Louise. Because checkout at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is at noon, the hotel will store your baggage until your 2:00 p.m. departure to Banff National Park. But your transfer from Lake Louise does not take you directly to Banff; instead, you are treated to a half-day sightseeing tour in nearby Yoho National Park. This park is filled with wonders and is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the highlights you can anticipate during the excursion include the famous Spiral Tunnels and Emerald Lake, the largest lake in Yoho National Park, and a true stunner, with its Presidential Range backdrop. During your time here, you will also see the natural rock bridge that spans the Kicking Horse River. After sightseeing, the route continues to Banff, where you have the rest of the day to settle into this vibrant resort town in the heart of the Rockies. Banff has a great selection of eateries, and shopping opportunities abound on Banff Avenue. Overnight Banff.

Day 9 - At Leisure in Banff National Park

Canada's first national park offers much during your free day there. You could continue exploring downtown Banff's amenities, including its museums and art galleries. If you seek relaxation, look no further than the Banff Upper Hot Springs. An endless supply of gorgeous hiking trails and lakes to explore are found within the surrounding park, and there are many ways to experience their wonders. Join a hiking excursion, book a horseback riding expedition, or rent a mountain bike. You could also join a cruising tour of Lake Minnewanka. Overnight Banff.

Day 10 - Banff Sightseeing/Calgary

A full day of adventure lies ahead as you depart Banff National Park bound for Calgary. Your route is brimming with spectacular sights, as the transfer includes a memorable sightseeing tour throughout Banff National Park. Spend time exploring many of Banff's points of interest, including Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, and the Banff Hoodoos. Your tour also includes a look at the scenery from above as you ride the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. Enjoy last glimpses at the towering Rocky Mountain peaks, waterfalls, and crystalline lakes as your coach departs Banff on the Trans-Canada Highway. Eventually, the mountains fade into foothills, and not long after, urban elements begin creeping into the vistas once more. Arrive in Calgary this evening with the remainder of the day to explore this cosmopolitan city's booming culinary scene or relax at your hotel. Overnight Calgary.

Day 11 - Tour Conclusion

After experiencing two of western Canada's great cities and spending time immersed in the otherworldly beauty of the Canadian Rockies, your journey concludes this morning. Check out of your hotel, and make an independent transfer to the train station or airport for your return home. 

Additional information

Pricing Plans

SilverLeaf Service & Hotel
Hotels include the Georgian Court Hotel, Marmot Lodge, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Banff Ptarmigan Inn, and Delta Calgary Downtown. Take in the awe-inspiring scenery of the Canadian Rockies through the panoramic windows of your custom-designed single-level dome coach.

GoldLeaf Service & Hotel
Hotels include the Fairmont Vancouver Hotel, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, Delta Banff Royal Canadian Lodge, and Hyatt Regency Calgary. Travel first-class aboard Rocky Mountaineer's GoldLeaf Service. A custom-designed bi-level dome coach puts travelers right in the middle of the awe-inspiring scenery of the Canadian Rockies as they enjoy gourmet meals prepared by onboard chefs.

GoldLeaf Service & Hotel Upgrade
Hotels include the Signature Harbour View Room at the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel, the Deluxe Room at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and the Fairmont Banff Springs, the Deluxe Lakeview Room at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and the Junior Suite at the Fairmont Palliser. Spoil yourself by making your Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service rail journey through the Canadian Rockies a deluxe one. Enjoy all of the same luxurious onboard amenities in GoldLeaf Service plus deluxe hotel accommodations.

 

Please note

Taxes are not included on rail portions and are subject to change. Taxes can be up to 5% on the rail portion only. 

Please note all accommodations in Kamloops are of moderate standard. Hotels are subject to change.

Departure times

Departure times vary based on selected rail vacation. This information will be provided in your final documents. For more information please speak with your rail specialist.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

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Reviews

4.5 stars4.5 / 5 · 10 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (7)
  2. 4 stars
    (1)
  3. 3 stars
    (2)
  4. 2 stars
    (0)
  5. 1 star
    (0)

GLENN LANG

5 stars

Submitted 07 Sep 2023

It was a terrific tour for viewing the Canadian Rockies.

Collected by Trustpilot

MARY POWELL

3 stars

Submitted 26 Jul 2023

The rail experience was substandard, and the rooms were very small and uneven. Some got lake views and others that paid the same were looking at a roof (us). You pay for Gold level and you think you will get a decent room, but that is not the case. Not a great experience overall but the sightseeing was great.

Collected by Trustpilot

Karlyn

5 stars

Submitted 01 May 2023

The train ride was the highlight but all worked out fine. It seemed a little confusing having various people doing several different excursions all together. But as I said, it all worked out.

Collected by Trustpilot

WADE LAWRENCE

3 stars

Submitted 13 Sep 2022

The trip was wonderful...hard to mess up the beauty of the Canadian Rockies! But the communication leading up to the vacation was awful. It took multiple phone calls to get information that should have been provided without prompting. We had an assigned agent that was MIA. And while there were optional activities at each of the stops, because they weren't reserved in advance by the tour company, they were often already booked up by the time we got there.

Collected by Trustpilot

Linda

5 stars

Submitted 10 May 2019

this has been my third inquiry regarding my wonderful trip, I am done

Collected by Vacations By Rail

Leslye E, Portland, OR

5 stars

Submitted 20 Dec 2018

Loved the trip- I feel like we really saw the highlights of the Canadian Rockies and all the places we stayed were wonderful

Collected by Vacations By Rail

Show all 10 reviews
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