Train Vacation | 7-Day Canadian Rockies Tour - First Passage to the West - Vancouver Round Trip

Journey Highlights

• Hope District Hall: This iconic location gained international fame as the town of "Hope, Washington" in the classic action film First Blood (Rambo). The District Hall stands as a key landmark from the movie, surrounded by an impressive collection of chainsaw carvings crafted by talented local artists. (Approx. 20min. stop)
  
• Ginseng Factory:British Columbia’s interior is renowned for its ideal growing conditions. This stop provides a rare, educational glimpse into the entire process, from the cultivation to the processing of high-quality Canadian ginseng. You will have the exclusive opportunity to purchase fresh, locally-sourced ginseng products directly from the source. (Approx. 30 min. stop)
  
• Spahats Creek Falls: Witness the powerful beauty of Spahats Creek Falls in Wells Gray Provincial Park. This magnificent waterfall plunges approximately 80 meters (246 feet) from a sheer rock face, revealing layers of ancient volcanic rock. A short, easily accessible trail leads to a viewing platform, offering a panoramic view of the falls as they thunder into the deep canyon below. (Approx. 45 min. stop)

Icefield Parkway & Columbia Icefield - Glaciers, Alpine Lakes & Wonders
The journey ventures deeper into the Canadian Rockies along the renowned Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), consistently ranked as one of the world's most scenic drives. This spectacular route stretches 232 km through the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, leading to some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders in North America.

Journey Highlights

• Athabasca Falls: Witness the raw power of nature as glacier-fed waters carve through ancient rock in this thundering waterfall. (Approx. 30min. stop)
  
• Icefield Parkway: Travel along this world-famous scenic highway connecting Banff and Jasper National Parks, featuring breathtaking mountain vistas, glaciers, and turquoise lakes (Scenic drive)
  
• Columbia Icefield Adventure (Optional $$):
  Explore the largest ice mass south of the Arctic Circle. Ride a massive Ice Explorer vehicle directly onto the Athabasca Glacier, or choose to walk onto the suspended, glass-floored Glacier Skywalk for jaw-dropping views of the Sunwapta Valley. This ancient ice sheet is the source of numerous glaciers and serves as a valuable record of climate history. (Approx. 2.5hrs stop)
  **Seasonal attraction: Closed before the 1st Saturday of May. During closure periods, this activity is replaced by Lake Minnewanka visit (20mins stop).
  
• Bow Lake: Experience the most visited lake on the Icefield Parkway, where the reflection of Crowfoot Mountain on the mirror-like water creates a serene atmosphere perfect for photography. During summer, this area serves as a natural habitat for wildlife, including bears. (Approx. 20min. stop)
  
• Peyto Lake: Marvel at one of the most photographed lakes in Canada, famous for its ever-changing turquoise colors. The high concentration of glacial minerals in the water creates a vivid blue appearance that sometimes looks almost unreal. (Approx. 20min. stop)
  *Note: If closed, this will be replaced with a visit to Waterfowl Lake.

Lake Louise, Moraine Lake & Yoho National Park: The Rockies' Crown Jewels
Today, immerse yourself in the most iconic landscapes of the Canadian Rockies. You will explore the two legendary lakes: Lake Louise and the spectacular, seasonal Moraine Lake (Valley of the Ten Peaks). Guests booking the meal package can enjoy a deluxe lunch upgrade at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise. The afternoon features Yoho National Park's marvels, including the stunning Emerald Lake, the geological wonder Natural Bridge, and the historic Spiral Tunnels.

Journey Highlights

• Lake Louise: Admire the breathtaking turquoise waters of this iconic alpine lake named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, with time to explore the shoreline and capture perfect photographs. (Approx. 2hrs stop)
  **Optional Upgrade Available$$: Deluxe lunch at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise.
  
• Moraine Lake (Seasonal, Early June to Early October): Discover the stunning Valley of the Ten Peaks featuring one of the most beautiful lakes in the Rockies. Its vivid turquoise color is created by light reflecting off glacial rock flour. (Approx. 60min. stop)
  **If Moraine Lake is closed, the stop will be replaced by Vermilion Lakes. For customers choose to upgrade one night stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in the pervious night, they will not visit Vermillion Lakes.
  
• Yoho National Park: Named for a Cree expression of awe and wonder, Yoho lies on the Western slopes of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
  
• Spiral Tunnel: It is one of the most bizarre feats of engineering to get the grade of a train line to be at or below 2.2%. The current two spiral tunnels where the railroad forms two spirals, crossing beneath itself twice, almost forming a figure eight, before continuing in the proper direction down the mountain were completed in 1909. (Pass through)
  
• Emerald Lake: It is the largest lake in Yoho National Park and a true Canadian Rockies gem. Its vivid, emerald-green waters are caused by glacial rock flour, offering a stunning contrast to the surrounding President Range mountains and the historic Emerald Lake Lodge. An easy trail circles the entire lake. (Approx. 20 min. stop)
  
• Natural Bridge: Sculpted by the erosive forces of rushing water over what had once been a waterfall, the Natural Bridge is a powerful reminder of how much influence water has in shaping the landscape. (Approx. 15 min. stop)

A Journey to Famous Canadian Rockies - Banff National Park
Today, we dive into Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You have the option to ride the famous Sulphur Mountain Gondola for unparalleled 360-degree panoramic views of the Rockies. Afterward, explore the geological beauty of Johnston Canyon or Marble Canyon (with complimentary crampons provided seasonally) and visit the powerful Bow Falls. The day concludes with free time for shopping and dining in the charming Banff Town, after capturing the iconic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel from Surprise Corner.

Journey Highlights

• Banff National Park: Canada's first national park, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta. Established in 1885, it is renowned for its stunning mountain scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing throughout the year.
  
• Johnston Canyon: One of the most popular hiking trails in the area. The canyon is renowned for its stunning waterfalls and rugged rock walls. In winter, the canyon transforms into a magical ice wonderland, with frozen waterfalls and ice sculptures creating a captivating scene. The paths lead visitors deep into the canyon to explore the scenic beauty, making it an ideal spot for nature exploration. (Approx. 60min. stop)
  ** If closed, it will be replaced by Marble Canyon (Approx. 30min. stop).
  
• Banff Sulphur Mt Gondola (Optional $$): The Banff Gondola offers a thrilling ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain in Banff National Park, providing visitors with panoramic views of the stunning Canadian Rockies. It takes you from the base to an elevation of 2,281 meters (7,486 feet), where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Banff town, Lake Louise, and the surrounding mountain peaks. At the top, you can enjoy a scenic boardwalk, dine at a mountaintop restaurant, and explore the interpretive exhibits. Whether you're visiting in winter for snow-covered views or in summer for vibrant landscapes, the Banff Gondola promises an unforgettable experience. (Approx. 90min. stop)
  
• Bow Falls: Location of the film “The River of no return” in 1960’s. The falls are formed by the Bow River, which cascades over a rocky ledge, creating a powerful and picturesque scene. Surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Canadian Rockies, the falls are a popular spot for visitors, offering scenic views and the chance to capture incredible photographs. (Approx. 15min. stop)
  
• Surprise Corner: This great spot where most of the famous pictures have been taken of the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, a grand castle-like structure set against the stunning backdrop of the surrounding mountains and the Bow River below. With its breathtaking combination of historic architecture and natural beauty, . (Approx. 15min. stop)
  
• Hoodoos: The Banff Hoodoos are fascinating geological formations. These unique rock spires, also known as “fairy chimneys” or “earth pillars,” are created through a process called erosion. The hoodoos are composed of sedimentary rock, such as sandstone, that is covered by a layer of harder, more resistant rock, like conglomerate or limestone. The hoodoos are a striking example of how natural forces can shape and sculpt the earth over time. These unique spires are not only a geological wonder but also a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers. (Approx. 15min. stop)
  
• Banff Town:The town of Banff is the largest and most vibrant community within Banff National Park, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. In addition to its stunning landscapes, Banff boasts a wide range of shops, restaurants, and cafes, providing everything from outdoor gear and souvenirs to fine dining and casual eateries. Strolling through the town’s picturesque streets, visitors can discover an array of boutique stores, art galleries, and gift shops, perfect for picking up unique local products or souvenirs to remember your visit. (Approx. 90min. stop)

Rail History & Engineering Wonders: Banff to Kamloops
Boarding the train to Kamloops, in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. Start the journey with a welcome-aboard breakfast on the train. The journey takes you through a spectacular array of scenery as you travel between the glacier and snow-capped 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 Spiral Tunnels, the Kicking Horse Canyon, Rogers Pass and Craigellachie - where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven.

Journey Highlights

• Craigellachie: The historic site where the "Last Spike" was driven on November 7, 1885, completing the Canadian Pacific Railway. It symbolizes the birth of Canada's unified nation.
• Spiral Tunnel: An extraordinary engineering marvel that allows the train to safely ascend and descend steep grades by traveling in two large, 360-degree spiral loops inside the mountain.
• Kicking Horse Canyon: A steep-walled, rugged canyon following the Kicking Horse River. The train crosses the river multiple times, showcasing dramatic gorges and whitewater rapids.
• Rogers Pass: The historically treacherous mountain pass through Glacier National Park. Famous for its heavy snow and avalanche danger, which led the railway to build the Spiral Tunnels.
• Kamloops: This major city in British Columbia's arid interior is situated at the confluence of the North and South Thompson Rivers. The region's unique dry, sunny, semi-desert climate and fertile soil created optimal growing conditions for cultivating North American Ginseng.

• Luxurious double-decker cabin with a Full glass-dome windows with panoramic views, the dreamy glass dome on the upper level and a scenic dining area on the lower level
• Gourmet à la carte meals in the lower-level dining room
• Attended by four Hosts, plus a full culinary team
• Signature cocktails, premium alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Large exclusive outdoor viewing platform
• Luxurious hotel accommodations with premium room categories.
• Unlimited beverages and complimentary snacks

• Custom-designed single-level dome. Oversized glass-dome windows for taking in the spectacular views
• Regionally-inspired meals served in the comfort of your seat
• Attended by up to three Hosts
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
• Outdoor viewing area
• Comfortable accommodations with restaurants on the property or within walking distance
• Unlimited beverages and complimentary snacks

• Thompson River Canyon: The journey begins by following the Thompson River through the B.C. Interior. The landscape here is often desert-like and arid, a stark contrast to the mountains, featuring steep, scrub-covered slopes and rock formations. This is a region famous for its ranchlands.
• Hell's Gate: This is the highlight of the day. The train passes through the Fraser Canyon, reaching Hell's Gate, the narrowest and deepest point of the Fraser River. You will see the immense power of the whitewater rapids that are forced through this gorge.
• Fraser Valley: After passing through the canyons, the landscape becomes much softer. The train descends into the lush, fertile green fields of the Fraser Valley, known for its agricultural land. This marks the transition back to the coastal environment as you near Vancouver.