【14 Pax Small Group】9-Day Canadian Rockies with VIA and Amtrak Railway Experience Summer Tour from Vancouver: Waterton, Glacier, Jasper, Yoho National Parks, Columbia Icefield, Lake Louise and Victoria

What you'll experience

Highlights

9 days

Day-by-day itinerary

1. 1

   Day 1 — Vancouver City Tour

   ★ Departure in between 0900AM to 0930AM / ★ Return to Hotel around 1630PM
   【Stanley Park】
   The largest city park in Canada cover 1,000 acre with forest, totem poles and the most spectacular view from Prospect Point. (Stop for about 30 minutes)
   【Granville Island Sightseeing】
   The Granville Island Public Market features a farmers' market, day vendors, and artists offering local Vancouver goods. (Stop for about 60 minutes)
    
   【Gas Town】
   Where Vancouver's economy begin. The Historic steam clock will whistle every hour. Tourist may buy Vancouver souvenirs here. (Pass through)
   【Chinatown】
   Vancouver's Chinatown is one of the largest in North America. In 2011 it was named the Canadian Glamorous Historic. We will visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden, a tranquil Ming Dynasty-style garden which grows the rarely found black bamboo tree. The Millennium Gate on Pender Street was built in 2000 for China Town’s blooming economy. We will also see the Sam Kee Building, at just 1.5m/6ft wide, it's the world's most narrow office. (Pass through)
   【Canada Place】
   The 1986 World Expo site. Now it is a Cruise Ship Terminal, with five stars hotel and a convention center. You will also see the "five sails", one of Vancouver's landmark. (Pass through)
   【Canada Winter Olympic Park】
   Take pictures of the 2010 Winter Olympic Cauldron. (Pass through)
   【Capilano Suspension Bridge】(Admission included)
   Feel the thrill of walking on a suspension bridge 70 meters above a river where you may find ancient pine trees. Stroll the Cliff Walk to challenge your bravery. (Stop for about 60 minutes)
    

   

   Stanley Park

   

   Granville Island

   

   Gas Town

   

   Capilano Suspension Bridge

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hilton Vancouver Airport
2. 2

   Day 2 — Vancouver - Victoria - Vancouver

   ★ Departure in between 0720AM to 0750AM / ★ Return to Hotel around 1930PM
   【BC Ferries】
   Board the BC Ferries from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island, enjoy the beautiful scenery along Georgia Strait. On this 95 minutes journey, don’t miss the opportunity to take photos or simply enjoy a cup of coffee at the coffee shop on board. (Ferry time about 90 minutes one way)
   【Butchart Gardens】
   Visit the world famous Butchart Gardens. The Butchart Gardens - tucked in a serene 130 acres country estate on the southeast corner of BC's Vancouver Island - is a garden earthly delights in every season. From summer’s sight and sounds to autumns cascade of color to sparkling holiday-magic at Christmas Time, thousands of visitors come here to enjoy different settings of flower shrubs and gardens. (Stop for about 75 minutes)
   【Victoria Downtown】
   In Downtown Victoria, you'll discover a vibrant mix of old-world charm and contemporary energy. Here, you can meander through scenic streets lined with historic buildings, savor a variety of delicious local and international cuisines, and soak up the stunning waterfront views. It's a perfect spot to experience the heart and soul of Victoria, where every corner offers something unique and memorable. (Stop for about 150 minutes)
    

   

   Butchart Gardens

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Hilton Vancouver Airport
3. 3

   Day 3 — Vancouver - Via Rail

   Today we will take you directly to the Pacific Central Station (1150 Station Street, Vancouver, BC) to board the VIA Rail. Train will be departing at 3:00 PM, the journey will lead you away from the city's hustle and bustle. As the train progresses, the scenery transitions from dusk to nightfall. The moonlight reflecting on the Fraser Valley creates a unique atmosphere, and later, you'll pass through Granville and head towards Jasper Town in the Rocky Mountain National Park.
   
   * Meeting time from Hotel to the VIA train station, please verify with tour guide one day prior to train departure.
   * VIA Rail will depart from 15:00PM to Jasper. Please verify the departure time with VIA rail (1-800-6812561).
   * Economy class does not include any meals but they do sell meals and drinks on the train. You may upgrade to sleeper class, which includes meals.
     

   Meals: B: Excluded(Compulsory Selection), L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: VIA Rail Economy (Optional upgrade to Sleeping class for a more comfortable and relax trip on the train)
4. 4

   Day 4 — Via Rail - Jasper - Maligne Lake - Maligne Canyon

   Arrive Kamloops, BC for 30mins break.
   Enjoy the spectacular view of Mt Robson on your right hand side when the train coming close to Jasper National Park. Arrive Jasper station around 11:00AM. Our tour guide will come meet you at the appointed time. 
   【Maligne Lake】
   It is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. (stop for about 100 minutes)
   【Maligne Lake Cruise (Optional)】
   It is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. You can take an optional cruise to enjoy the scenery of the lake. (stop for about 60 minutes)
   【Maligne Canyon】
   It is carved into the Palliser Formation, a layer of limestone deposited in a shallow tropical sea by lime-secreting plankton about 365-million years ago. (stop for about 30 minutes)
   【Jasper Town】
   It is the heart of Jasper National Park. 2nd biggest town in the Canadian Rockies. (stop time – your own arrangement)
         

   

   Maligne Lake

   

   Maligne Canyon

   

   Jasper National Park

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Whistlers Inn Hotel, Lobstick Lodge, Jasper Inn & Suite
5. 5

   Day 5 — Jasper - Athabasca Falls - Columbia Icefield (Ice Explorer/ Glacier Skywalk) - Bow Lake - Peyto Lake

   ★ Departure around 0800AM from Jasper Hotel / ★ Return to Hotel around 1730-1830PM
   Continue your journey Jasper National Park, the biggest National Park in Canada.
   【Athabasca Falls】
   It is not one of the highest waterfalls, but is rather known for the shear amount and force of the water that flows through it from the Columbia Glacier. (stop about 30 mins)
   【Icefield Parkway】
   One of Canada's national treasures and most rewarding destinations. Stretching 232km (144mi) through the heart of Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, this world-class journey offers access to a vast wilderness of pristine mountain lakes, ancient glaciers and broad sweeping valleys. (pass through)
   【Columbia Icefield】
   Snocoach and Skywalk (Optional $$): Visit the Canadian Rockies and tour over the Athabasca Glacier in a giant Ice Explorer; a once in a lifetime experience. Next, enjoy a breathtaking view of the glacier from The Glacier Skywalk. (stop for about 3.5 hours)
         
         
   【Bow Lake】
   It is the headwaters of the Bow River that runs south through the city Calgary and onto the Oldman River ultimately to Hudson Bay. (stop for about 20 minutes)
   【Peyto Lake】
   It is a glacier-fed lake in Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies. During the summer, significant amounts of glacial rock flour flow into the lake, and these suspended rock particles give the lake a bright, turquoise color. (stop for about 20 minutes) / (It will be replaced by Waterfowl Lake if it is closed.)
         

   

   Columbia Icefield

   

   Athabasca Falls

   

   Bow Lake

   

   Peyto Lake

   

   Icefields Parkway

   

   Columbia Ice Explorer

   Meals: B: Excluded(Compulsory Selection), L: Excluded(Group Meal Option Available), D: ExcludedStay: Banff Aspen Lodge, Banff Mount Royal , Elk + Avenue Hote, Banff Inn, Banff Park Lodge, Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa, Irwin's Mountain Inn
6. 6

   Day 6 — Lake Louise - Moraine Lake - Yoho - Spiral Tunnel - Emerald Lake - Natural Bridge

   ★ Departure around 0930AM from Banff Hotel / ★ Return to hotel around 1830-1930PM
   Start your journey to Famous Canadian Rockies from Calgary and you will visit the Lake Louise and Yoho National Park.
   【Lake Louise】
   This beautiful lake is named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta. Famous photo-taking location. (stop for about 2 hours)
   【Moraine Lake/Ten Peaks Valley】
   Its waters are the most amazing color, a vivid shade of turquoise that changes in intensity through the summer as the glacier melt. Set in the rugged Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is surrounded by mountains, waterfalls, and rock piles, creating a scene so stunning it almost seems unreal. (stop for about 60 minutes)
   * Moraine Lake open from (early June to early Oct). If closed, it will be replaced by the Vermillion Lake.
   【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】
   Name comes from her green water color. (stop for about 20 minutes)
   【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. (stop for about 15 minutes)
    
    

   

   Lake Louise

   

   Yoho National Park

   

   Upper Spiral Tunnel

   

   Emerald Lake

   

   Natural Bridge, Canada

   

   Moraine Lake

   Meals: B: Excluded(Compulsory Selection), L: Excluded(Optional Group Meal Available - Deluxe Lunch at Chateau Lake Louise), D: ExcludedStay: Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel & Suites by APA, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Calgary Downtown, Aloft Calgary University, Four Points by Sheraton Calgary Airport
7. 7

   Day 7 — Calgary - Waterton National Park - Glacier National Park

   ★ Departure around 0800AM from Calgary / ★ Return to Hotel around 1830-1930PM
   Today, we will visit the Waterton National Park, the only park in the world that has three designations - UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Peace Park and a Biosphere Reserve! This park was established in 1895, and it forms the International Peace Park in conjunction with the neighboring Glacier National Park in the United States. It is renowned for its diverse landscapes, year-round strong winds, and native flora and fauna.
   【Waterton Town】
   This charming lakeside town invites you to stroll leisurely, enjoy local cuisine, or picnic under the shade by the lake, fully embracing the relaxed atmosphere of this vacation destination. (stop for about 60 minutes)
   【Cameron Falls】
   A highlight of a Waterton visit. Crystal clear cascading mountain water rushes steadily over 1.5 billion-year-old Cambrian rock, throwing off a delicate mist that dusts the skin of those who stand-around admiring it. (stop for about 15 minutes)
   【Two Medicine Lake】
   Two Medicine is the collective name of a region located in the southeastern section of Glacier National Park, in the U.S. state of Montana. The region was considered sacred ground by several Native American tribes including the Blackfeet and they performed Vision quests here. Aside from Chief Mountain, the Two Medicine area is the most sacred section of the park to the Blackfeet. (stop for about 20 minutes)
    

   

   Waterton Lakes National Park

   Meals: B: Excluded(Compulsory Selection), L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Glacier Park Lodge, Glacier Peaks Hotel
8. 8

   Day 8 — Glacier National Park - Go To The Sun Road - Amtrak

   ★ Departure around 0800AM from Hotel / ★ AMTRAK departure at 19:48PM
   【Glacier National Park】
   Spend 2-3 hours immersing yourself in the beauty of the Glacier National Park. Venture up the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, one of the most scenic drives in America.
   Begin your adventure by visiting the stunning St. Mary Lake area, where the crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains.
   Don’t miss a stop at the historic Rising Sun Motor Inn, a charming lodge that has welcomed visitors since the 1950s and offers a glimpse into the park's rich history.
   As you continue your journey, take in the breathtaking views of St. Mary Lake, pausing to admire Wild Goose Island—a picturesque spot perfect for photography and appreciation of the park’s natural beauty.
   As you ascend toward the Continental Divide and Logan Pass, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and wildflowers that dot the landscape.
   During your narrated trip, knowledgeable guides will share fascinating stories and insights about the park's geology, ecology, and history.
   Throughout this unforgettable experience, you’ll witness stunning vistas that will leave you in awe, making it a perfect introduction to the wonders of Glacier National Park.
   
   * After the tour, take the shuttle to Amtrak train station.
   * The train is scheduled to depart at 7:48 PM. Please check the exact time on the Amtrak website before departure: Amtrak Schedule https://www.amtrak.com/tickets/schedule-results.html.
   * Meals and drinks are available for purchase on board.
   * Private room upgrades are available for an additional cost.
    

   Meals: B: Excluded(Compulsory Selection), L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Amtrak Economy class (Optional upgrade to Sleeping class for a more comfortable and relax trip on the train)
9. 9

   Day 9 — Amtrak - Seattle

   The AMTRAK journey from East Glacier to Seattle takes you through the majestic Cascade Mountains and waterfalls, offering scenic views of beautiful lakes, pristine forests, and charming small towns, making it an exceptional rail trip that blends natural wonders with tranquil landscapes.
   
   
   * Meals and drinks are available for purchase on board. Private room bookings include breakfast.
   * AMTRAK train is expected to arrive at Seattle’s King Street Station (303 S Jackson St, Seattle, WA 98104, United States) at 11:29 AM. Please check the time on the official Amtrak website before departure https://www.amtrak.com/tickets/schedule-results.html.

   Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: Excluded

What's included

Meeting & drop-off

Cancellation policy

Important info

Tour operator