9-Day Winter VIA Rail & Rockies Tour from Vancouver | Hybrid Adventure - Okanagan, Banff, Lake Louise, Abraham Lake Ice Bubbles

• VQA Winery: Enjoy complimentary tastings of VQA Ice Wine (Vintners Quality Alliance), guaranteeing the highest quality and authentic origin of Canadian wine. The Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA) is a regulatory and geographical indication system that guarantees the high quality and authentic origin of Canadian wines produced under this standard in British Columbia and Ontario. This designation ensures quality similar to the regulatory systems found in France (AOC), Italy (DOC), and Spain (DO).
• Okanagan Lake: Pass by the legendary "Monster Lake" and hear the Indigenous tale of the Ogopogo, with a reward offered for its discovery by the City of Kelowna. According to lore, the monster is the transformed spirit of a wicked man who murdered a respected chief. The City of Kelowna has famously offered a CA$2 million reward for proof of the Ogopogo's existence, adding to the lake's mystery and allure.
• Revelstoke: Discover this historic railway town with deep roots in forestry and natural resources. Revelstoke has deep roots as a vital Railway Town and historic transportation hub. The town's economy has been built and sustained by the railway, forestry, and natural resources for over 100 years. Today, Revelstoke is not only a gateway to mountain parks but is also home to the massive Revelstoke Dam, one of British Columbia's largest power generators. The surrounding area is a rich habitat for diverse Canadian wildlife, including Grizzly Bears, Black Bears, Wolves, Elk, and Mountain Goats.

Sulphur Mountain Views & Charming Banff Town
Today, our journey takes us through the famous Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park before we enter the breathtaking Banff National Park, Canada's first and most famous protected wilderness area. You will have the option to ride the Banff Sulphur Mountain Gondola (Optional), which carries you to the 2,251-meter summit for a spectacular 360-degree view of the snow-covered Rocky Mountains. Afterwards, we will arrive at Banff Town, where you will have ample free time to shop and try a variety of Canadian local cuisine. (Note: If the Banff Gondola is closed, the option will be substituted with the Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola.)

Journey Highlights

• Banff National Park: Canada's first national park, established following the discovery of hot springs during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885. Banff boasts numerous world-class landmarks, is home to sites like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Johnston Canyon, and is renowned for the frequency of wildlife viewing.
  
• Banff Sulphur Mountain Gondola (Mandatory Item): This is one of Banff's most famous activities. The fully enclosed gondola ascends 700 meters in just eight minutes, delivering you to the summit station at 2,281 meters. From the 360-degree observation deck, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the mountain ranges or walk the boardwalk to the historic early 20th-century weather observatory. You can also relax with coffee/ tea at the mountaintop restaurant. For Starbucks fans, you should note the lower station features the highest-elevation Starbucks in all of Canada!
  **Note: If the Banff Gondola is closed, the option will be substituted with the Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola.
• Banff Town: A charming, European-style town and the largest commercial hub within Banff National Park. It features a wide variety of restaurants, hotels, shopping, and entertainment, offering a delightful experience for all visitors.

Rockies' Geological Wonders & Iconic Views
The morning is dedicated to leisure time. After lunch, we will meet at the designated location to board our vehicle and continue exploring the world-renowned Rocky Mountain National Parks.

Journey Highlights

The Jewel of the Rockies: Lake Louise & Yoho National Park

In the morning, we depart from the gathering point by tour coach. Today, we will immerse ourselves in Lake Louise and Yoho National Park, allowing you extended time to appreciate the captivating turquoise jewel of the Rockies—Lake Louise.

Journey Highlights

• Lake Louise ＋ Snowshoeing Experience: Named after the beautiful Princess Louise, this is the most famous lake within the Rocky Mountain National Parks. The glacial water, sourced from the Victoria Glacier behind it, is rich in minerals, creating the lake's mesmerizing, dream-like color that shifts with the light. The shoreline is graced by the famous Fairmont Château Lake Louise, complementing the stunning scenery. (Approx. 120min. / 2 hours stop)
  **Complimentary Snowshoeing: If snow conditions are adequate, we will provide free snowshoe rentals, allowing you the unique experience of walking across the expansive, snowy landscape yourself. (Approx. 20min. experience)
  

• Yoho National Park: The name "Yoho" originates from an Indigenous language and means "awe and wonder." Yoho National Park features numerous rare geological landscapes and is a world-renowned fossil site.
• Spiral Tunnels: This tunnel is inaccessible by vehicle, as it is a remarkable railway engineering feat built by the Canadian Pacific Railway to manage a dangerously steep grade. Named for its "8" shape, which is formed by two looping tunnels inside the mountains on either side, you can view portions of the entrance and exit from a distance. (Pass through during drive)
• Emerald Lake: Any visitor who sees this lake instantly understands its name. The beautiful, intense green color of the water, caused by powdered limestone, creates a magnificent picture with the surrounding lush mountains. You may also be able to rent canoes here to enjoy a feeling of serene tranquility. (Approx. 20min. stop)
• Natural Bridge: Named because the varying hardness of the riverbed rock caused the rushing water to erode the softer layers, creating a natural rock bridge where a waterfall once existed. A viewing platform on the opposite bank explains the erosion process and future changes—a must-see for anyone interested in geology. (Approx. 15min. stop)
• Vermillion Lakes: Vermilion Lakes consists of a series of three main lakes and surrounding expansive wetlands (marshes). Located in the Bow Valley, the lakes sit beneath Mount Norquay. The area provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and stunning scenery. It is a favorite spot for photographers, especially during the "Golden Hour," as the lakes perfectly reflect Banff's iconic mountains: Mount Rundle and Sulphur Mountain. (Approx. 20min. stop)

Winter Adventures at Lake Louise Ski Resort and Scenic Wonders

Today's itinerary offers you the opportunity to participate in thrilling optional snow activities to experience the world-renowned soft powder snow and magnificent winter scenery of the Rockies. (You may choose to join one or all activities; options can be added during the booking process.)

Journey Highlights

• Lake Louise Ski Resort(Approx. 3-hour stop)
  You may purchase your own lift tickets to experience one of Canada's largest ski areas, featuring over 100 runs suitable for all skill levels.
  **Note: If the Lake Louise Ski Resort, including the gondola and tubing, is not open, the itinerary will be replaced by a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, stopping at Bow Lake and Peyto Lake.

• (Optional$$)  Banff Upper Hot Springs⠀(Approx. 60min. / 1 hour stop)
  Banff National Park's only outdoor public hot spring. Experience the iconic "ice and fire" winter activity in mineral-rich waters (maintained at 38–40°C).
  **Note: If the Hot Springs are closed, the tour will visit the Cave and Basin National Historic Site (optional/paid entry) instead.
  **Time Constraint Note: If the Lake Louise Ski Resort stop is replaced by Icefield Parkway, the Hot Springs stop will be omitted due to time constraints.

• Lake Minnewanka: Visit the largest lake in the Rockies, famously a filming location for The Revenant. (Approx. 20-minute stop)

• Lake Louise Ski Resort  (Approx. 2-hour stop)
  You may purchase your own lift tickets to experience one of Canada's largest ski areas, featuring over 100 runs suitable for all skill levels.
  **Note: If the Lake Louise Ski Resort (including the gondola and tubing) is not open, the itinerary will be replaced by a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, stopping at Bow Lake and Peyto Lake.

• Abraham Lake  (Ice Bubbles): We will make a special visit to Abraham Lake to see the famous frozen methane bubbles, a rare natural phenomenon beloved by photographers.
  **Note: This stop is dependent on weather, road conditions, and lake ice thickness.

• (Optional$$)Heli Tour: A thrilling way to see the Rocky Mountains from a new perspective, offering an unparalleled view of the snow-covered peaks. (Approx. 20-minute flight time)

Scenic Transfer via Icefields Parkway to Jasper

Self-Guided Adventures in Jasper
Today is your self-guided day in Jasper, offering you undisturbed time to explore at your leisure, try various snow activities, or simply stroll through Jasper Town. You may choose to enhance your day with the following activities (extra fees may apply):

Own arrangement to Jasper VIA Train Station (Address:⠀607 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB, T0E 1E0, Canada) and board on VIA Rail.
**VIA Rail will depart from Jasper at⠀09:30 AM (Canada Mountain Time) to Vancouver. Please verify the departure time with VIA Rail Canada at (＋1) 800-681-2561 before your departure date.
**Economy Class seats do not include any meal plan, but the meals and beverage are available to purchase on the train.
**Optional$$ : Upgrades to Sleeper Berth or Private Cabin
VIR Rail offers "Sleeper Plus" and "Economy" Cars. For the Sleeper Plus, 3 types of rooms are available.

Today, you will board the VIA Rail train and begin your magnificent scenic journey out of Jasper National Park.

Journey Highlights

• Mountain Views: Do not miss the opportunity to look out the right side of the train for a spectacular view of Mount Robson (3,954 meters), the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.
• Kamloops Stop: The train continues into the B.C. Interior, stopping at Kamloops, the region's largest city. You will have a 30-minute stop to step off, stretch your legs, and enjoy the town's atmosphere before the final leg of the journey to Vancouver.