Tour Code: 493-19411
7-Day Winter VIA Rail Banff and Jasper Semi-Self-Guided Tour from Calgary, Vancouver out
Our Price: from
Day 1: Calgary |
|
Upon arrival in Calgary, we will be picked up at the airport and then transferred to the hotel. We can enjoy our free time leisurely for the rest day. Guests who arrive before 12:00pm can choose to take one of the following optional activities: Option D: Chinook Center Calgary is a fun city surrounded by natural landscapes, most notable Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. The local area offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. It is accessible via Vancouver, Seattle and other Canadian cities.
Dulexe Hotel: Best Western Premier Calgary Plaza Hotel or similar Meal: Excluded |
Day 2: Emerald Lake - Natural Bridge - Lake Louise - Lunch at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise - Marble Canyon (354 km) |
|
Heading west, you will pass by the historic Spiral Tunnel, an engineering marvel built during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, symbolizing the wisdom and perseverance of early railway workers. Continue on to the tranquil Emerald Lake, a stunning alpine gem that remains enchanting even in winter. Then visit the Natural Bridge, where the Kicking Horse River has carved its way through solid rock to form a naturally sculpted arch. Next, arrive at the magical Lake Louise, framed by the majestic Victoria Glacier. During January to April (subject to official opening dates), the world-renowned Ice Magic Festival transforms the area into a fairytale world of ice and snow sculptures created by artists from around the globe. Overlooking the lake, the elegant Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise adds timeless charm to the scenery. After lunch, continue to Marble Canyon for a light hike. The trail crosses multiple wooden bridges in a zig-zag pattern over a narrow creek, surrounded by towering limestone walls. In winter, frozen waterfalls cascade dramatically into the canyon, creating an unforgettable landscape. These are the western slopes of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Towering rockwalls, spectacular waterfalls and soaring peaks earn the park its name.
Canada's oldest national park-- and one of the first national parks in the world-- is home to an icy but gorgeous landscape. Duration: Approx. 3 Hours
Kootenay National Park is located in southeastern British Columbia Canada, covering 1,406 km² in the Canadian Rockies, and forms part of a World Heritage Site.
Standard Hotel: Elk + Avenue Hotel, Canalta Lodge, Caribou Lodge, Aspen Lodge or similar Breakfast: Meal Plan|Lunch: Meal Plan (Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise 3-crose Lunch (Beef) OR Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Afternoon Tea)|Dinner: Excluded |
Day 3: Bow Lake - Peyto Lake - Icefield Parkway - Lake Louise Village Lunch Time - Vermillion Outlook - Lake Minnewanka - Two Jack Lake (82 km) |
|
The first stop is Bow Lake, admired for its stunning alpine waters framed by towering mountains. Continue to Peyto Lake, world-famous for its unique maple-leaf shape. The viewpoint offers outstanding photography opportunities, and in winter includes a short guided hike (Ice cleats are provided during winter months). Along the way, enjoy views of the dramatic Crowfoot Glacier, a striking highlight of the Parkway. Next, enjoy lunch time in Lake Louise Village (optional at own expense). In the afternoon, visit the Vermilion Lakes Viewpoint, where in winter the frozen lake surface reflects the majestic Mount Rundle, creating postcard-perfect scenery. Continue on to Lake Minnewanka, where under the right winter conditions you may see the magical “frozen bubble” phenomenon beneath the ice. The journey also includes a stop at the tranquil Two Jack Lake. Canada's oldest national park-- and one of the first national parks in the world-- is home to an icy but gorgeous landscape. Duration: Approx. 3 Hours
Standard Hotel: Elk + Avenue Hotel, Canalta Lodge, Caribou Lodge, Aspen Lodge or similar Breakfast: Meal Plan|Lunch: Meal Plan (Lake Louise Asian/Western Set Lunch)|Dinner: Excluded |
Day 4: Johnston Canyon Upper Falls - Bow Falls - Surprise Corner - Banff Gondola (closed Nov 4–15, replaced with Cave & Basin National Historic Site) (207 km) |
|
Your first stop is Johnston Canyon, where you will hike along the scenic trail to the Upper Falls. (Trail information: approx. 5 km round trip, 120 m elevation gain. Ice cleats are provided during winter months.) Experience dramatic canyon walls and sparkling frozen waterfalls. Next, enjoy lunch time in Banff Town (optional at own expense). Afterward, continue to Bow Falls and Surprise Corner, two iconic viewpoints offering postcard-perfect winter scenery of the Rockies. The highlight of the day is the Banff Gondola, ascending Sulphur Mountain for a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the snow-covered peaks and Banff town below. (During the gondola's annual maintenance period, November 4–15, this stop will be replaced by the Cave and Basin National Historic Site - free tickets) Canada's oldest national park-- and one of the first national parks in the world-- is home to an icy but gorgeous landscape. Duration: Approx. 3 Hours
Banff is a small town located within Banff National Park in Alberta. It is within distance of several hiking mountains and is home to many shops and boutiques. Duration: Approx. 2 Hours
Standard Hotel: Elk + Avenue Hotel, Canalta Lodge, Caribou Lodge, Aspen Lodge or similar Breakfast: Meal Plan|Lunch: Meal Plan (Lunch at Seoul Country Restaurant)|Dinner: Excluded |
Day 5: Banff - Icefields Parkway - Jasper (No tour guide service) (288 km) |
|
Enjoy half free day in Banff. Please wait at the hotel lobby from 14:30 - 14:45PM to board the Banff - Jasper bus, heading to Jasper National Park. We will travel along the famous Icefields Parkway, recognized as one of the "Top 10 Scenic Drives in the World" by National Geographic. Along the way, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking winter scenery with everything covered in a blanket of glistening snow. We will arrive in Jasper Town at approximately 6:30-7:00 PM in the evening. With the addition of winter snow, the town takes on a magical ambiance. **Banff - Jasper bus: Each passenger is allowed to bring 1 piece of carry-on luggage (7kg), 1 piece of checked luggage (23kg), and 1 personal item. Additional luggage requests will incur an extra fee. SUNDOG, additional luggage is CAD$15+GST per item, ski equipment is CAD$40+GST per item, can be paid on the bus. Banff is a small town located within Banff National Park in Alberta. It is within distance of several hiking mountains and is home to many shops and boutiques. Duration: Approx. 15 Minutes This town in the wilderness of Alberta, Canada serves as the gateway to the national park of the same name, where visitors can see the Athabasca Glacier. There are many lakes in the area. Standard Hotel: Whistler Inn/ Athabasca Hotel or similar Breakfast: Meal Plan|Lunch: Excluded|Dinner: Excluded |
Day 6: Jasper - VIA National Rail (No tour guide service) (532 km) |
|
Depart from Jasper Hotel at approximately 08:00 am in the morning. Drop off at Canada National Rail VIA station (The departure time is subject to the final notification from Jasper Railway Station, please go to the railway station to check in at least 1 hour in advance) Welcome to Vancouver, a city where urban charm meets natural beauty! Surrounded by mountains and ocean, it offers stunning views, vibrant neighborhoods, and a rich cultural experience. From scenic parks to world-class dining, Vancouver has something for everyone! Standard Hotel: on the VIA train Breakfast: Meal Plan|Lunch: Excluded|Dinner: Excluded |
Day 7: VIA National Rail - Vancouver (No tour guide service) |
|
At around 8:00am we will arrive in Vancouver Pacific Railway Station, you can explore Richmond and experience the diverse cultures of Vancouver.
Welcome to Vancouver, a city where urban charm meets natural beauty! Surrounded by mountains and ocean, it offers stunning views, vibrant neighborhoods, and a rich cultural experience. From scenic parks to world-class dining, Vancouver has something for everyone! Meal: Excluded |
Departure and Return Details
Return times (estimated) and locations:
8:00am, 1150 Station Street, Vancouver, BC, Vancouver, BC V6A 4C7 (Vancouver VIA Train Station)
Price Includes:
Price Excludes:
-
VIA Important Notes:
- There will be no tour guide provided for this day as it is a self-guided itinerary. For assistance, please contact the service number listed in your Tour Confirmation.
Baggage Policy (varies based on your ticket class, If you need a Comfort Plus Cabin, please contact customer service in advance):
- Economy Class:
- 1 checked bag (23kg)
- 1 carry-on (7kg)
- 1 personal item (e.g., laptop bag or small clothing bag)
- Comfort Sleeper:
- 1 checked bag (23kg)
- 2 carry-ons (7kg each)
- 1 personal item (e.g., laptop bag or small clothing bag)
- Comfort Plus Cabin:
- 1 checked bag (23kg)
- 2 carry-ons (7kg each)
- 1 personal item (e.g., laptop bag or small clothing bag)
Meals (based on your class of service):
- Economy Class: No meals included, but snacks and light meals are available for purchase onboard.
- Comfort Sleeper & Comfort Plus Cabin: Includes lunch and dinner. Beverages are available for purchase.
Travel Tip:
To avoid schedule conflicts (e.g., flights or pre-booked tours), please avoid scheduling important activities upon arrival as train delays can sometimes affect your plans.
Special Notes:
This product includes tickets for VIA Rail Canada. Train schedules and policies regarding cancellations or changes due to unforeseen circumstances are subject to VIA Rail Canada's official announcements.
In case of force majeure events (e.g., transport disruptions, station closures, weather conditions, traffic control), the tour operator will assist with changes, but any additional costs (e.g., accommodation, transportation, meals) must be borne by the traveler.
It is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance for your protection.
-
Banff to Jasper Intercity Bus Important Notes:
- There will be no tour guide services for this day as it is a self-guided itinerary. If you need assistance, feel free to contact the service number provided in your Tour Confirmation.
- Please be at the lobby at least 15 minutes prior to departure. The driver will check your name before boarding.
- The bus does not stop at any attractions along the Icefields Parkway. Due to winter road conditions, the professional driver will ensure a safe and comfortable journey, keeping punctuality in mind whenever possible.
Luggage Policy:
- Free Luggage Allowance:
- 1 piece of checked luggage (23kg)
- 1 piece of carry-on luggage (7kg)
- 1 personal item (such as a laptop bag or small clothing bag)
- Excess Baggage Fees (anything beyond the free luggage policy will be considered extra and charged directly to the driver in cash):
- Additional luggage: CAD$16 per item (including tax)
- Oversized items** (skis, snowboard, bicycle, etc.): CAD$ 32 per item (including tax)
- Your hotel has been pre-booked, so please show your valid ID at check-in to complete the process.
- If your itinerary includes airport pick-up and drop-off service, please provide accurate flight information and arrive at the designated pick-up location in advance. If the pick-up or designated pick-up location is mistaken due to inaccurate information you have provided, you will be charged C$30/pp for a second pick-up service.
- According to different hotel operation requirements, you may be required to provide credit card information as a deposit during your stay for miscellaneous expenses and incidental guarantees (such as telephone expense, laundry, catering).
- All activities and meals must be booked in advance. Please understand that no additional bookings will be provided during the tour.
- During the tour, please arrive at the pick-up location at the time scheduled by the tour guide. Do not be late to avoid delaying other tourists' itinerary. If you are late or miss the transportation we have provided, you are responsible (at your own expense) to meet the group at the next designated meeting location.
- During your trip, the tour guide may pick-up or drop-off travelers accommodated at different hotels. The tour guide will make reasonable arrangements according to the presented situation. Please cooperate and understand, thank you.
- During your trip, there may be different vehicles and tour guides serving you.
- If for any reason you need to leave our group during the trip, you must fill out a "Letter of Liability Release", no exceptions.
- Guests under 16 years old, must be accompanied by an adult (Age 18 or above).
- In the event of traffic, weather, or other circumstances not under our company's control, or if you are unable to participate in activities included in the itinerary due to personal reasons, no refunds will be given.
- If you have special needs (such as but not limited to: bed type, vegetarian options, high-chairs, etc.) please inform us at least 10 days before your trip. We will do our best to accommodate you, but there is no guarantee.
- All add-on activity & meal options must be purchased 10 days before the tour start, and subject to availability of resources.