Snow Train to the Rockies

This evening (7:30pm), check in at Pacific Central Station and board VIARail’s ‘Canadian’ for the famous train journey to the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains. Travel back in time to the days of classic rail travel. The original stainless steel ‘streamliner’ railcars (made famous by the
‘Canadian’ in the 1950s) are completely refurbished with air conditioning, a café car, lounge car and access for all on-board to the dome car. By day, sit back in comfortable seating and enjoy the comfort of your very own accommodation. At night attendants will transform your quarters into cozy bunks or a bedroom. 
 

By the time you awake this morning the train will have just departed Kamloops to begin the day travelling towards the Canadian Rockies and Jasper. Enjoy breakfast (included) while surrounded by dramatic scenery as you follow the banks of the North Thompson River through the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains. Around lunch time the ‘Canadian’ begins its passage into the Rockies with views of snow-capped peaks, Pyramid Falls and the expansive glaciers of the Albreda Icefields. Pass by Mount Robson, which at 3,954 m is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Arrive in Jasper at 4.00pm and transfer to your hotel. The balance of the afternoon is yours to explore this unique mountain community. (B)(L)

Experience the wonders of Maligne Canyon from the ground up! The canyon has withstood 10,000 years of erosion and has created a 50m gorge. Certified guides will lead groups of no more than 12 along the frozen canyon floor and its ice-clad limestone walls. Super soles and winter boots will keep guests warm and secure as they explore this wonderland of rock and ice.

Travel southward along the Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise. This spectacular drive through glacier country features massive snow covered mountains, frozen waterfalls and broad-reaching valleys. Included this evening is a wonderful 40 minute sleigh ride that takes place beside the lake.

Depart Lake Louise mid-morning for a short drive to Banff via the scenic Bow Valley.

A free day to enjoy Canada’s premier winter resort. There are plenty of options, including: shopping , skiing or boarding in one of the 3 ski resorts in the area (not included) or visit the luxurious spa at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (not included).

This morning is free to explore Banff, before your scheduled coach to Calgary departs midday. Following the Trans Canada Highway, depart the Rocky Mountains to the Great Central Plains that roll to the east for 2,000 km and extend as far south as Mexico. This is ‘cattle ranching country’
and the breadbasket of Canada. Tour ends in Calgary.