canada·Multi-day tour·6 days
6-Day Winter VIA Rail Exploration Tour from Vancouver: Lake Louise, Yoho National Park, Columbia Icefield, and the Beauty of Canadian Rockies | Fully English-Speaking Guide Service
★ 5.0· 0 reviewsNo Mandatory FeeScenic Train
What you'll experience
Highlights
• Special Offer: Free National Park Admission
• Scenic VIA Rail Journey through the Rockies: Travel from Vancouver to Jasper on the iconic VIA Rail, passing Pacific coastlines, glaciers, alpine lakes, and—if lucky—the Northern Lights
• Explore Jasper's Winter Magic: Enjoy optional snowshoeing through frozen forests or stargazing in Jasper's world-famous Dark Sky Preserve
• Ride the Icefields Parkway — "One of the World's Top 10 Scenic Drives":Journey from Jasper to Banff along this breathtaking route lined with snow-capped peaks and glacier-fed lakes
• Discover Banff & Yoho National Parks: Visit iconic landmarks including Lake Louise, Emerald Lake, Peyto Lake, and Natural Bridge—each a jewel of the Canadian Rockies
6 days
Day-by-day itinerary
- 1
Day 1 — Vancouver - VIA National Rail (No tour guide service on this day, it is a self-guided tour)
Vancouver Pacific Central Station Address:
Pacific Central Station, 1150 Station Street, Vancouver, BC V6A 4C
As the train departs Vancouver, enjoy views of the Pacific coastline and Fraser Valley. Once entering the Rocky Mountains, you'll be greeted by snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and alpine lakes, with winter forests and occasional wildlife sightings. As the sun sets over the mountains, look up to a starlit sky and, if lucky, the Northern Lights.
Itinerary Overview:
14:00: Arrive at Vancouver Pacific Central Station
15:00: VIA Rail departs for Jasper
19-hour journey
Next day at 11:00: Arrive in Jasper
Important Notes:
No guide service: This is a self-guided trip. For assistance, contact the customer service number on your confirmation voucher.
Train Departure: Please arrive 90 minutes before departure at the station for check-in and luggage handling (valid ID and VIA Rail e-ticket required).
Luggage Allowance:
Economy: 1 checked bag (23kg), 1 carry-on (7kg), and 1 personal item (e.g., laptop bag).Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: On the VIA train - 2
Day 2 — VIA National Rail - Jasper (No tour guide service on this day, it is a self-guided tour)
Itinerary Overview:
11:00: Arrive at Jasper Train Station
Proceed to your Jasper hotel
Afternoon free for leisure and optional activities
Jasper Train Station Address: Jasper Station, 607 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0
After the VIA Rail journey through the breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery, you will arrive in Jasper around noon. Upon arrival, make your way to your hotel for check-in. After lunch, you have the option to participate in optional winter activities in Jasper.
Optional Winter Activities:
① Secrets of Jasper Snowshoe Tour
Embark on a snowshoe journey through snow-covered forests, frozen lakes, and serene mountain meadows. Whether you are an experienced snowshoer or a beginner, a professional guide will assist you in navigating the snow while sharing insights on the area's history, geology, ecology, and the beauty of the winter landscape.
Start Time: 13:30 PM
Duration: 3 hours
Departure: Hotel lobby
Recommended Attire: Warm base layers, snow pants (essential below -16°C), sweater, insulated jacket, hat, gloves, neck warmer or scarf, and hiking boots.
② DarkSky - A Full Evening of Cosmic Discovery
Jasper is one of the world's largest and most accessible Dark Sky Preserves and is home to one of the few town-owned planetariums in North America. Enjoy an engaging and awe-inspiring night of stargazing! The full experience includes a visit to the planetarium and telescope viewing.
Start Times: 17:45 PM, 18:45 PM, 19:45 PM, or 20:45 PM (Available Dec 2 - Apr 30, Tue-Sat, closed on Dec 24-25)
Duration: 1.5 - 2 hours
Meeting Point: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Hotel—Please check-in at the planetarium desk inside the hotel lobby.
Address: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, 1 Old Lodge Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0
Recommended Attire: Warm base layers, snow pants (essential below -16°C), sweater, insulated jacket, hat, gloves, neck warmer or scarf, and hiking boots.
Important Notes:
No guide service: This is a self-guided trip. For assistance, please contact the service phone number listed in your confirmation voucher.
Hotel Information: Your hotel will likely be Whistler Inn or Athabasca Hotel, both within a 3-minute walk from the train station. If staying at another hotel, you may call for a local taxi.
Next Day Departure: At 8:30 AM, meet at the hotel lobby to board the Jasper to Banff intercity bus. This portion of the trip is also a self-guided journey. For assistance, please contact the service number listed in your confirmation voucher.Meals: B: Excluded, L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Whistler's Inn, Athabasca Hotel, Chateau Jasper - 3
Day 3 — Jasper - Icefields Parkway - Banff (No tour guide service on this day, it is a self-guided tour)
Itinerary Overview:
At 8:30 AM: Meet at your hotel lobby for the Jasper to Banff intercity bus
Icefield Parkway (approx. 4-hour drive)
12:45 PM: Arrive in Banff
At 8:30 AM, wait at your hotel lobby for the intercity bus to Banff. The bus will travel along the Icefield Parkway (Highway 93), one of National Geographic's "Top 10 Scenic Drives in the World," where you'll enjoy stunning winter landscapes. You'll arrive in Banff around 12:45 PM, with the afternoon free for leisure. You can explore the charming Banff town or enjoy a meal according to your preferences.
Important Notes:
No guide service: This is a self-guided trip. For assistance, contact the service phone number listed in your confirmation voucher.
Bus Departure: The intercity bus will arrive between 8:30 - 8:45 AM at your hotel. Please be ready at least 15 minutes before departure in the hotel lobby. The driver will verify your name before boarding.
Icefield Parkway: The bus will not stop at any scenic viewpoints. Winter road conditions can be challenging, but the driver will prioritize safety while ensuring comfort and punctuality.
Free Luggage Allowance: 1 standard checked bag (23 kg), 1 carry-on bag (7 kg), and 1 personal item (e.g., laptop bag or clothing bag).
Additional Luggage Charges: Any excess luggage will incur an additional fee, payable in cash to the driver:
Extra luggage: CAD$16 (including tax) per item
Oversized luggage (e.g., skis, snowboard, bicycle): CAD$ 32 (including tax) per item
Hotel Check-in: Your hotel in Banff has been pre-booked. Please present your ID to check in.
Guide Contact: Your guide will contact you between 17:00 PM - 20:00 PM the following day.
Icefields Parkway
Meals: B: Excluded(Optional meal add-on available), L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Banff Elk + Avenue Hotel, Banff Inn, Canalta Lodge, Caribou Lodge - 4
Day 4 — Free Day in Banff Town
Full Day Free Time in [Banff Town].
Things To Do:
Outdoors:
1. Walk North through Banff Town towards the Banff Sign, where you can take a picture to share with your loved ones.
Next to the sign, you'll notice a trail that eventually meets with the Bow River.
This trail will take you back to down or you can continue following it past Central Park, under the car bridge toward the Banff Pedestrian Bridge.
Cross the pedestrian bridge and you'll find yourself at a fork. Turn left/South East towards the Art In Nature Trail. This will also eventually take you to the Bow Falls and the Banff Springs Hotel.
2. Just North of the Banff Sign is Fenland trail. A 2.1 km loop with creekside paths, wooden bridgets, and towering spruce trees.
In Banff Town:
For Foodies:
Try Beaver Tails, Cows Ice Cream, and The Grizzly House known for its fondue.
For Kids at Heart:
Check out the Rocks & Gems Shop, the Christmas Store, or Loose Moose for fun Souvenirs.
Luxury:
Call ahead to the Banff Springs Hotel and reserve a meal there, spend some time exploring the history of the building, or (for a fee) access their spa and pool area.Meals: B: Excluded(Optional meal add-on available), L: Excluded, D: ExcludedStay: Banff Elk + Avenue Hotel, Banff Inn, Canalta Lodge, Caribou Lodge - 5
Day 5 — Banff - Marble Canyon - Yoho National Park - Emerald Lake - Natural Bridge - Lake Louise - Banff Town - Banff
Banff - Marble Canyon (45 min) - Yoho National Park - Emerald Lake (20 min) - Natural Bridge (15 min) - Lunch Stop at Lake Louise Village Optional [Grill & Bar] (Asian or Western Set Lunch with additional charges) (45 min) - Lake Louise (60 min) - Banff Town (30 min) - Banff
From Calgary, passing through the charming town of [Canmore] and along the scenic Bow Valley, the journey begins toward the majestic Rockies. First stop is [Marble Canyon], where rushing waters carve through dramatic limestone walls, creating a striking natural wonder. Continue west into [Yoho National Park] to visit the quiet beauty of [Emerald Lake], its turquoise waters reflecting the surrounding peaks and forests. Nearby, discover the [Natural Bridge], a powerful rock formation shaped by the relentless force of the Kicking Horse River.
Enjoy a relaxing lunch stop at [Lake Louise Village] with an optional Grill & Bar Set Lunch (Asian or Western menu available, additional charges apply) before heading to the breathtaking [Lake Louise]. Spend an hour taking in its iconic turquoise waters, framed by the majestic Victoria Glacier and the elegant [Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise]. Indulge in an optional Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (additional charges apply), featuring premium teas and pastries with stunning views of the lake and surrounding peaks. Continue your journey to [Banff Town], where boutique shops, cozy cafés, and mountain charm invite you to explore. As the day winds down, return comfortably to Banff.
Marble Canyon
Yoho National Park
Emerald Lake
Lake Louise
Banff Town
Natural Bridge, Canada
Meals: B: Excluded(Optional meal add-on available), L: Excluded(Optional meal: Lake Louise Asian/Western Set Lunch/ Winter Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Afternoon Tea at Fairview Bar), D: ExcludedStay: Banff Elk + Avenue Hotel, Banff Inn, Canalta Lodge, Caribou Lodge - 6
Day 6 — Banff - Peyto Lake - Bow Lake - Lake Louise Village - Vermilion Lakes Viewpoint - Lake Minnewanka - Two Jack Lake - Banff/Canmore/Calgary
Banff - Peyto Lake (75 min) - Bow Lake (15 min) - Lake Louise Village [optional lunch (grill and bar set lunch)] (45 min) - Vermilion Lakes Viewpoint (15 min) - Lake Minnewanka (20 min) - Two Jack Lake (15 min) - Banff/Canmore/Calgary
From Calgary, travel west through the mountain gateway of [Canmore] en route to the legendary Icefields Parkway. Your first panorama is the glacier-fed jewel of [Peyto Lake], famed for its vivid turquoise hue and sweeping lookout over Bow Summit. Continue to serene [Bow Lake], where still waters mirror ancient peaks and time seems to slow.
Return south to [Lake Louise Village] for an optional [Grill & Bar Set Lunch], a relaxed break amid alpine scenery. Then swing back toward Banff for the classic postcard vista at [Vermilion Lakes Viewpoint], where glassy wetlands frame the skyline. Round out the afternoon along the Minnewanka Loop: stroll the vast shores of [Lake Minnewanka], rich with stories, and pause at tranquil [Two Jack Lake], a favourite for its calm reflections and easy lakeside wander.
** If you plan to connect to a flight departing from Calgary on the same evening:
For domestic flights within Canada, please book a departure after 9:00 PM.
For international flights, please book a departure after 10:00 PM.
Peyto Lake
Bow Lake
Lake Minnewanka
Two Jack Lake
Meals: B: Excluded(Optional meal add-on available), L: Excluded(Optional meal: Lake Louise Asian/Western Set Lunch), D: Excluded
What's included
Included
- Air-conditioned vehicle; ticket from Vancouver VIA Railway Station to Jasper (Seat ticket)
- Professional tour guide
- Accommodation: Standard twin room at listed hotels or equivalent
- Taxes: 5% GST (federal service tax)
- Admissions: National Park entry fees included
- VIA Luggage Allowance: 2 pieces of luggage per person, maximum weight 23kg per piece, total length (maximum 158cm); 1 piece of carry-on luggage, maximum weight 11.5kg, 43x15x33cm
Not included
- Gratuities for driver/guide (not included but appreciated)
- All meals throughout the trip
- Admission fees for activities mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, beverages, shopping, or pay-per-view TV
- Additional costs due to force majeure (e.g., traffic delays, war, political unrest, strikes, severe weather, aircraft breakdowns, flight cancellations, or schedule changes)
- Any type of travel insurance
- Optional activities and excursions
- All add-on activity & meal options must be purchased 10 days before the tour start, and subject to availability of resources
Meeting & drop-off
Departure points
- Vancouver Pacific Central Station · VancouverPickup at 14:00:001150 Station St, Vancouver, BC V6A 4C7
End / drop-off
- Elk + Avenue Hotel333 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1J3
- Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel1316 33 St NE, Calgary, AB T2A 6B6
- Bus station in front of Harry Hays Building220 4 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4X3
- Calgary International Airport2000 Airport Rd NE, Calgary, AB T2E 6W5
- Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference CentreCanmore
Cancellation policy
| When you cancel | Refund | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 0–17 days before | 0% | Cancellation Made Within 17 days prior to departure, No Refund |
| 18–32 days before | 50% | Cancellation Made Within 18 days to 32 days prior to departure, Refund 50% of total purchase amount |
| 33+ days before | 95% | Cancellation Made 33 or more days prior to departure, Refund 95% of total purchase amount |
Read the full cancellation terms
[Modifications]
0–17 days: No changes or refunds for any services
18+ days: CAD 50 per change per order (activities/meals refundable)
[Additional Terms]
Extra costs may apply based on availability.
Bank/credit card fees deducted from refunds.
Requests must be submitted in writing.
Refunds processed within 1–7 business day.
Important info
Special notes
[Travel Requirements]
- This is a local bus tour. All travelers are responsible for aquiring their own Visas/Electronic Travel Authorization
- Provide complete and accurate booking information (name, gender, passport copy, contact details). Travelers are responsible for delays or losses caused by incorrect information.
- If you do not receive your Tour Confirmation within 7 days of departure, please contact our office.
[Booking & Itinerary]
- For a smooth trip, book activity and meal packages when reserving your tour. No changes can be made within 7 days of departure.
- Your itinerary may operate alongside other travelers' similar tours.
- Hotel class and ratings vary by region; North American hotels are locally rated.
- Standard rooms include one large bed or two doubles. Specific bed types can be requested but are not guaranteed.
- Vehicle type depends on group size:
- Up to 24 passengers: driver also serves as guide
- 25+ passengers: separate driver and guide
- Tours are conducted in English and/or Mandarin.
- In cases of force majeure (e.g., weather, road closures, traffic), itineraries may be adjusted or cancelled.
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
- Tours4fun is not responsible for transportation delays, weather, or other uncontrollable events.
[Travel Notice]
- For airport transfers, provide accurate flight details and arrive early at the meeting point. Extra transfers due to inaccurate information may incur additional fees.
- Hotels may require a credit card for incidental deposits (phone, laundry, meals).
- All meals and activities must be booked in advance; no on-tour additions are available.
- Please be punctual for all pick-ups. Missed departures are at your own expense.
- Multiple vehicles or guides may serve your group.
- Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult (18+).
- Guests leaving the group early must complete a Liability Release Form.
- No refunds for missed activities due to weather, traffic, or personal circumstances.
- Special requests (bed type, dietary needs, high chairs, etc.) must be made at least 7 days prior; subject to availability.
- Itinerary order is subject to change without notice.
[Traveler Tips]
- Temperature: Expect large day-night differences (25°C daytime / 15–18°C night). Dress in layers.
- Sun & Air: UV is strong; use sunscreen. The climate is dry — bring moisturizer.
- Wildlife: Do not feed or approach animals. Stay in your vehicle near large wildlife.
- Hotel Smoking: Strictly prohibited; violations may incur a $300+ CAD fine.
- National Parks: Smoke only in designated areas; extinguish cigarette butts fully.
- Hotel Facilities: Many lodges are 3–4 stories and may lack elevators.
- Amenities: Eco-friendly hotels may not provide toothbrushes, toothpaste, slippers, or combs. Basic toiletries only.
- Hot Water: Kettles are not standard; request hot water at the front desk or use the coffee maker as directed.
- Attractions: Boiling water not available at most sites — plan ahead.
- Electricity: Canada uses 110V, three-prong plugs (two flat, one round).
- This is a local bus tour. All travelers are responsible for aquiring their own Visas/Electronic Travel Authorization
- Provide complete and accurate booking information (name, gender, passport copy, contact details). Travelers are responsible for delays or losses caused by incorrect information.
- If you do not receive your Tour Confirmation within 7 days of departure, please contact our office.
[Booking & Itinerary]
- For a smooth trip, book activity and meal packages when reserving your tour. No changes can be made within 7 days of departure.
- Your itinerary may operate alongside other travelers' similar tours.
- Hotel class and ratings vary by region; North American hotels are locally rated.
- Standard rooms include one large bed or two doubles. Specific bed types can be requested but are not guaranteed.
- Vehicle type depends on group size:
- Up to 24 passengers: driver also serves as guide
- 25+ passengers: separate driver and guide
- Tours are conducted in English and/or Mandarin.
- In cases of force majeure (e.g., weather, road closures, traffic), itineraries may be adjusted or cancelled.
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
- Tours4fun is not responsible for transportation delays, weather, or other uncontrollable events.
[Travel Notice]
- For airport transfers, provide accurate flight details and arrive early at the meeting point. Extra transfers due to inaccurate information may incur additional fees.
- Hotels may require a credit card for incidental deposits (phone, laundry, meals).
- All meals and activities must be booked in advance; no on-tour additions are available.
- Please be punctual for all pick-ups. Missed departures are at your own expense.
- Multiple vehicles or guides may serve your group.
- Guests under 16 must be accompanied by an adult (18+).
- Guests leaving the group early must complete a Liability Release Form.
- No refunds for missed activities due to weather, traffic, or personal circumstances.
- Special requests (bed type, dietary needs, high chairs, etc.) must be made at least 7 days prior; subject to availability.
- Itinerary order is subject to change without notice.
[Traveler Tips]
- Temperature: Expect large day-night differences (25°C daytime / 15–18°C night). Dress in layers.
- Sun & Air: UV is strong; use sunscreen. The climate is dry — bring moisturizer.
- Wildlife: Do not feed or approach animals. Stay in your vehicle near large wildlife.
- Hotel Smoking: Strictly prohibited; violations may incur a $300+ CAD fine.
- National Parks: Smoke only in designated areas; extinguish cigarette butts fully.
- Hotel Facilities: Many lodges are 3–4 stories and may lack elevators.
- Amenities: Eco-friendly hotels may not provide toothbrushes, toothpaste, slippers, or combs. Basic toiletries only.
- Hot Water: Kettles are not standard; request hot water at the front desk or use the coffee maker as directed.
- Attractions: Boiling water not available at most sites — plan ahead.
- Electricity: Canada uses 110V, three-prong plugs (two flat, one round).
Pricing notes (children, single supplement)
The train can be upgraded to an upper or lower berth sleeper. Sleeper prices fluctuate; please contact customer service for a quote before booking. The upgrade must be reserved and paid at the time of tour booking, and the fee is non-refundable once paid.
1. The single room price applies to one person occupying one standard hotel room.
2. The double/triple/quad room price applies to two, three, or four guests sharing one standard hotel room.
3. Triple and quad rooms are equipped with two beds; no extra bed service is available.
4. Hotel Standard: There is no official hotel rating system in North America; all hotels used in this itinerary are local brand hotels.
5. A standard double room in North America typically includes one or two beds. If you have a special bed preference, please inform us when booking—we will do our best to accommodate your request.
6. Each room can accommodate a maximum of four guests, including adults, children, and infants.
1. The single room price applies to one person occupying one standard hotel room.
2. The double/triple/quad room price applies to two, three, or four guests sharing one standard hotel room.
3. Triple and quad rooms are equipped with two beds; no extra bed service is available.
4. Hotel Standard: There is no official hotel rating system in North America; all hotels used in this itinerary are local brand hotels.
5. A standard double room in North America typically includes one or two beds. If you have a special bed preference, please inform us when booking—we will do our best to accommodate your request.
6. Each room can accommodate a maximum of four guests, including adults, children, and infants.
Travel tips
【Free National Park Admission】
For visits to national parks between December 12, 2025 and January 15, 2026, admission is free. The national park entrance fee of CAD 7.00 per person will be refunded by the tour guide during the tour.
For visits to national parks between December 12, 2025 and January 15, 2026, admission is free. The national park entrance fee of CAD 7.00 per person will be refunded by the tour guide during the tour.
Tour operator
Tours4Fun Provider 3015
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$876
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