Across Canada by Train
13 days
Enjoyable for all
Comfortable transport & accommodations. Any physical activities are optional. Temperate environment. Mostly guided. E.g. a train-bus tour
Trip Overview |
Map |
Itinerary |
Options |
Accommodation |
From the metropolis of Toronto to the serenity of Lake Louise, the Across Canada by Train trip fills your desire for the energy of big cities, as well as the peacefulness of nature. As you travel across the country by train, you see firsthand how diverse Canada’s spectacular scenery really is. And with plenty of time to relax in the Canadian Rockies, you won’t miss any of Canada’s natural beauty.
Outline
Arrive Toronto*
2 nights Toronto
3 nights VIA Rail
2 nights Jasper
1 night Lake Louise
2 nights Banff
1 night Kamloops
1 night Vancouver
Depart Vancouver
*Can be done in reverse
Arrive Toronto*
2 nights Toronto
3 nights VIA Rail
2 nights Jasper
1 night Lake Louise
2 nights Banff
1 night Kamloops
1 night Vancouver
Depart Vancouver
*Can be done in reverse
ITINERARY
(Eastbound shown - Westbound works in reverse.)
Day 1 – Your Across Canada Train Vacation Begins – Arrive Vancouver
A city surrounded by mountains and ocean, the air is fresh, the ambiance cool, and the residents friendly and welcoming. Vancouver’s personality is just the kind of warm Canadian welcome you’d expect and the perfect start to your Canadian train trip. Enjoy your evening relaxing in a nearby café or exploring the city by foot.
Day 2 – On the Rocky Mountaineer – Vancouver to Kamloops
A lonesome wail sounds from the train whistle and announces the first day onboard your Canadian train trip, as the smell of your breakfast wafts from the galley, the Rocky Mountaineer leaves Vancouver on the first leg of its journey through the Rockies.
Over lunch you’ll climb the steep Fraser Canyon, past the thundering water of Hell’s Gate, and onto the high desert of British Columbia’s interior. A Canadian train trip allows you to relax, chat, snap photos - or stretch your legs on an outdoor viewing platform.
In late afternoon, arrive in the small town of Kamloops for your overnight stay.
Day 3 – Into the Canadian Rockies – experience the Rocky Mountaineer
Over breakfast anticipation builds for your first sighting of the high peaks of the Rockies on your across Canada train trip. Along the way learn about the history of travel by train in Canada and be sure to keep an eye out for Bears, Bald Eagles and Elk.
Your Canadian train trip reaches the famous Spiral Tunnels - ascending slowly, round and round through the darkness, until, blinking, you emerge to find yourself high in the mountains, surrounded by mighty peaks topped with snow. Overnight in Banff.
Day 4 – In the Canadian Rockies – Explore Banff
Today’s the day to get outside, explore, and see why the population of Banff doubles during the summer months. A Canadian train trip allows for convenient stops at sights of interest. A guided tour lets you relax in comfort as you visit four local mountains and learn how natural phenomena have made Banff into the outdoor paradise it is today.
Ride the gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of Bow Valley - the mountains surround you on all sides as you gaze upon the pristine wilderness below with the river glistening in the distance.
Now, you understand the sense of peace that makes Banff one of the most popular stops year after year for travelers making an across Canada train journey.
Day 5 – Deeper into the Rockies – Banff to Lake Louise
Today you’ll see perhaps the most famous view in all of the Rockies and on any across Canada train itinerary. Picture the clearest glacier water you can imagine, and then frame the water with some of the most majestic mountains in the world – Lake Louise is like nothing else, and justifiably among Canada’s most photographed spots.
This is a place to relax, take a stroll or a hike - or go for a paddle in a canoe. Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 6 – The Icefields Parkway – Lake Louise to Jasper
Welcome the morning by boarding a luxury motor coach and relaxing in comfort as you head north on a scenic sightseeing tour along the Icefields Parkway. This is one of the most scenic highways in the world and a perfect compliment to your Canadian train trip.
Your tour guide’s commentary throughout the journey lets you know which direction to look so you don’t miss a thing. The snocoach ride by Ice Explorer (included in your across Canada train vacation) on the Athabasca Glacier will amaze modern day adventurers, and that feeling will intensify as you arrive in Jasper.
You are completely encircled by mountains and trees - the surrounding wilderness has you in awe of nature.
Day 7 – Maligne Lake Tour with Cruise – Discover Jasper
Jasper’s natural beauty is right outside your window as you take a guided tour through one of the National Park’s most spectacular areas. Maligne Canyon will have you in awe of the powers of erosion, where 10,000 years have created a gorge so deep that it looks almost bottomless.
Learn how Medicine Lake is “mysteriously” disappearing before boarding a narrated cruise on Maligne Lake, bound for serene Spirit Island.
Day 8 – 10 – Canadian train trip East – onboard the Canadian
A cozy cabin with a large picture window and seats that become a comfortable nighttime bed awaits you on The Canadian – the across Canada train route.
Leave the majestic mountain peaks and glacier lakes of the Canadian Rockies behind, as you travel east toward Canada’s sprawling prairies.
The rich yellows and golds of the prairies are illuminated in the sunlight. In the distance you spot a lone red barn surrounded by a decrepit wooden fence which strikes you as uniquely beautiful. Who knew such flat land could be so stunning and the landscapes so varied?
Day 11 – Your Canadian train trip enters Lake Country – Arrive in Toronto
Travel past the rolling farmland of rural Ontario, through the vast “Canadian Shield’s” land of lakes and forests before arriving in Toronto. The last rail leg of your Canadian train trip draws to a dramatic close. Step off the train and immediately, the sounds of Canada’s largest city welcome you to downtown Toronto.
Couples hurry along the sidewalk, rushing to one of Toronto’s big stage productions. Multicultural, modern, and exciting, Toronto beckons. Get out and explore the most invigorating city of your across Canada train vacation.
Day 12 – Roaring Waters – Tour Niagara Falls
Sink into the seat of your luxury motor coach this morning as you begin the journey to southern Ontario’s greatest natural wonder – Niagara Falls.
You wonder how many major cities are so close to nature, as you cross the fruit producing area of St. Catherine’s, and the wineries of the Niagara Peninsula.
Arriving at the Falls, don a stylish waterproof poncho - the classy uniform of the Maid of the Mist, and prepare for a wet but exciting adventure. Your poncho keeps you from getting soaked as your boat takes you close enough to the falls to feel the spray on your face. A scenic drive along the Niagara Parkway will take you to serene Niagara-on-the-Lake. Buy some local wine as a memento of your Canadian train trip and unwind as you stroll through the local shops.
Day 13 – With Fond Memories Made – Your Canadian train trip concludes
Much too soon, you leave the clean air and colourful sights of Canada behind as your across Canada train vacation comes to an end.
(Eastbound shown - Westbound works in reverse.)
Day 1 – Your Across Canada Train Vacation Begins – Arrive Vancouver
A city surrounded by mountains and ocean, the air is fresh, the ambiance cool, and the residents friendly and welcoming. Vancouver’s personality is just the kind of warm Canadian welcome you’d expect and the perfect start to your Canadian train trip. Enjoy your evening relaxing in a nearby café or exploring the city by foot.
Day 2 – On the Rocky Mountaineer – Vancouver to Kamloops
A lonesome wail sounds from the train whistle and announces the first day onboard your Canadian train trip, as the smell of your breakfast wafts from the galley, the Rocky Mountaineer leaves Vancouver on the first leg of its journey through the Rockies.
Over lunch you’ll climb the steep Fraser Canyon, past the thundering water of Hell’s Gate, and onto the high desert of British Columbia’s interior. A Canadian train trip allows you to relax, chat, snap photos - or stretch your legs on an outdoor viewing platform.
In late afternoon, arrive in the small town of Kamloops for your overnight stay.
Day 3 – Into the Canadian Rockies – experience the Rocky Mountaineer
Over breakfast anticipation builds for your first sighting of the high peaks of the Rockies on your across Canada train trip. Along the way learn about the history of travel by train in Canada and be sure to keep an eye out for Bears, Bald Eagles and Elk.
Your Canadian train trip reaches the famous Spiral Tunnels - ascending slowly, round and round through the darkness, until, blinking, you emerge to find yourself high in the mountains, surrounded by mighty peaks topped with snow. Overnight in Banff.
Day 4 – In the Canadian Rockies – Explore Banff
Today’s the day to get outside, explore, and see why the population of Banff doubles during the summer months. A Canadian train trip allows for convenient stops at sights of interest. A guided tour lets you relax in comfort as you visit four local mountains and learn how natural phenomena have made Banff into the outdoor paradise it is today.
Ride the gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of Bow Valley - the mountains surround you on all sides as you gaze upon the pristine wilderness below with the river glistening in the distance.
Now, you understand the sense of peace that makes Banff one of the most popular stops year after year for travelers making an across Canada train journey.
Day 5 – Deeper into the Rockies – Banff to Lake Louise
Today you’ll see perhaps the most famous view in all of the Rockies and on any across Canada train itinerary. Picture the clearest glacier water you can imagine, and then frame the water with some of the most majestic mountains in the world – Lake Louise is like nothing else, and justifiably among Canada’s most photographed spots.
This is a place to relax, take a stroll or a hike - or go for a paddle in a canoe. Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 6 – The Icefields Parkway – Lake Louise to Jasper
Welcome the morning by boarding a luxury motor coach and relaxing in comfort as you head north on a scenic sightseeing tour along the Icefields Parkway. This is one of the most scenic highways in the world and a perfect compliment to your Canadian train trip.
Your tour guide’s commentary throughout the journey lets you know which direction to look so you don’t miss a thing. The snocoach ride by Ice Explorer (included in your across Canada train vacation) on the Athabasca Glacier will amaze modern day adventurers, and that feeling will intensify as you arrive in Jasper.
You are completely encircled by mountains and trees - the surrounding wilderness has you in awe of nature.
Day 7 – Maligne Lake Tour with Cruise – Discover Jasper
Jasper’s natural beauty is right outside your window as you take a guided tour through one of the National Park’s most spectacular areas. Maligne Canyon will have you in awe of the powers of erosion, where 10,000 years have created a gorge so deep that it looks almost bottomless.
Learn how Medicine Lake is “mysteriously” disappearing before boarding a narrated cruise on Maligne Lake, bound for serene Spirit Island.
Day 8 – 10 – Canadian train trip East – onboard the Canadian
A cozy cabin with a large picture window and seats that become a comfortable nighttime bed awaits you on The Canadian – the across Canada train route.
Leave the majestic mountain peaks and glacier lakes of the Canadian Rockies behind, as you travel east toward Canada’s sprawling prairies.
The rich yellows and golds of the prairies are illuminated in the sunlight. In the distance you spot a lone red barn surrounded by a decrepit wooden fence which strikes you as uniquely beautiful. Who knew such flat land could be so stunning and the landscapes so varied?
Day 11 – Your Canadian train trip enters Lake Country – Arrive in Toronto
Travel past the rolling farmland of rural Ontario, through the vast “Canadian Shield’s” land of lakes and forests before arriving in Toronto. The last rail leg of your Canadian train trip draws to a dramatic close. Step off the train and immediately, the sounds of Canada’s largest city welcome you to downtown Toronto.
Couples hurry along the sidewalk, rushing to one of Toronto’s big stage productions. Multicultural, modern, and exciting, Toronto beckons. Get out and explore the most invigorating city of your across Canada train vacation.
Day 12 – Roaring Waters – Tour Niagara Falls
Sink into the seat of your luxury motor coach this morning as you begin the journey to southern Ontario’s greatest natural wonder – Niagara Falls.
You wonder how many major cities are so close to nature, as you cross the fruit producing area of St. Catherine’s, and the wineries of the Niagara Peninsula.
Arriving at the Falls, don a stylish waterproof poncho - the classy uniform of the Maid of the Mist, and prepare for a wet but exciting adventure. Your poncho keeps you from getting soaked as your boat takes you close enough to the falls to feel the spray on your face. A scenic drive along the Niagara Parkway will take you to serene Niagara-on-the-Lake. Buy some local wine as a memento of your Canadian train trip and unwind as you stroll through the local shops.
Day 13 – With Fond Memories Made – Your Canadian train trip concludes
Much too soon, you leave the clean air and colourful sights of Canada behind as your across Canada train vacation comes to an end.
Options & Upgrades
This trip can be customized for your perfect vacation - call us for friendly local advice
This trip can be customized for your perfect vacation - call us for friendly local advice
- Upgrade to GoldLeaf Service onboard the Rocky Mountaineer - Dome windows optimize your view of the scenery, freshly prepared gourmet food and an outdoor viewing platform providing wonderful photographic opportunities make this option a must.
- Extra nights in Vancouver, the Rockies or Toronto as well as day-trips and tours make great additions to this trip
- Kamloops Entertainment:
- Two River Junction Dinner & Musical Revue: A humourous take on Canadian Rail history
- The Great Canadian Lumberjack Show: See the amazing feats of talented woodsmen
Accommodation
Standard, Superior or Deluxe hotels
Standard, Superior or Deluxe hotels
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Dates + Prices |
HIGHLIGHTS
- See Canada's world famous towns & cities: Toronto, Banff, Jasper, Vancouver
- 2 days on Rocky Mountaineer
- 3 nights on VIA Rail
- Spectacular Niagara Falls!
- Choice of great hotels
Testimonials
It was the most memorable trip! Everything was planned, prepared and handled so well by Katherine and we really appreciate that. Again, thank you so very very much for making this a truly grand experience!
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0 800 917 5924 (UK)
1 800 992 872 (Aus.)
Office hours:
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Sat 10am - 4pm.
A personal trip advisor will help you book your perfect trip.
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Reserve Online using the form at left.
We will contact you as quickly as we can and you will not be under any obligation until after we have confirmed all details with you.
At that time a US$500 per person deposit is payable and you will be subject to our usual terms and conditions.
Reserve your spot without obligation for 48 hours. Our consultants will contact you to confirm details before you pay a deposit.
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2009 Package Start Dates
Starting in Vancouver
Monday, Wednesday, Saturday
Apr 15, 20,25,29
May 2,4,6,9,11,13,16,18,20,23,25,27,30
Jun 1,3,6,8,10,13,15,17,20,22,24,27,29
Jul 1,4,6,8,11,13,15,18,20,22,25,27,29
Aug 1,3,5,8,10,12,15,17,19,22,24,26,29,31
Sep 2,5,7,9,12,14,16,19,21,23,26,28,30
Oct 3,5,7,10,12
Starting in Toronto
Thursdays
Apr 9,16,23,30
May 7,14,21,28
Jun 4,11,18,25
Jul 2,9,16,23,30
Aug 6,13,20,27
Sep 3,10,17,24
Price Notes
• Prices are per person
• Double means two people occupying a room
• Triple and Child rates are available
Includes
• 2 days Rocky Mountaineer - Standard and Superior include Rocky Mountaineer RedLeaf service whilst Deluxe features Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service
• 4 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 3 dinners
• 9 nights hotel accommodation
• 3 nights bedroom accommodation onboard VIA Rail Canada
• Tour to Maligne Lake with Walk (departures Apr 25 - May 29th, 09) or Cruise (departures from May 29th, 09 onwards)
• Banff Tour, ( including Sulphur Mountain Gondola from April 22nd, 09)
• Niagara Falls Day trip
• Icefields Parkway tour between Jasper and Lake Louise, venture on to the Athabasca glacier aboard the famous Ice fields explorer (April 24th, 09 departures onwards)
• Documentation package
Not Included
• Rocky Mountaineer fuel surcharge $30 pp
• Airport transfers
• Rail Station transfers in Vancouver, Banff, Jasper, and Toronto
• Meals, other than onboard the Rocky Mountaineer, VIA Rail & Niagara Falls Day trip
• Trip Cancellation Insurance
• Baggage handling and gratuities
• National Park Pass
• GST
Starting in Vancouver
Monday, Wednesday, Saturday
Apr 15, 20,25,29
May 2,4,6,9,11,13,16,18,20,23,25,27,30
Jun 1,3,6,8,10,13,15,17,20,22,24,27,29
Jul 1,4,6,8,11,13,15,18,20,22,25,27,29
Aug 1,3,5,8,10,12,15,17,19,22,24,26,29,31
Sep 2,5,7,9,12,14,16,19,21,23,26,28,30
Oct 3,5,7,10,12
Starting in Toronto
Thursdays
Apr 9,16,23,30
May 7,14,21,28
Jun 4,11,18,25
Jul 2,9,16,23,30
Aug 6,13,20,27
Sep 3,10,17,24
| Standard Hotels & Rocky Mountaineer RedLeaf Service | USD$ | CAD$ | Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service Upgrade | |||
| Double | Single | Double | Single | USD$ | CAD$ | |
| Apr 9 - Apr 18 2009 | 2,480 | 3,122 | 2,803 | 3,528 | 549 | 620 |
| Apr 19 - May 21 2009 | 3,008 | 3,870 | 3,399 | 4,373 | 779 | 880 |
| May 22 - Oct 7 2009 | 4,155 | 5,326 | 4,696 | 6,019 | 779 | 880 |
| Oct 8 - Oct 13 2009 | 3,713 | 4,623 | 4,196 | 5,224 | 779 | 880 |
| Superior Hotels & Rocky Mountaineer RedLeaf Service | USD$ | CAD$ | Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service Upgrade | |||
| Double | Single | Double | Single | USD$ | CAD$ | |
| Apr 9 - Apr 18 2009 | 2,879 | 3,853 | 3,253 | 4,354 | 549 | 620 |
| Apr 19 - May 13 2009 | 3,547 | 4,928 | 4,009 | 5,569 | 779 | 880 |
| May 14 - Oct 7 2009 | 4,665 | 6,501 | 5,271 | 7,347 | 779 | 880 |
| Oct 8 - Oct 13 2009 | 4,052 | 5,277 | 4,579 | 5,963 | 779 | 880 |
| Deluxe Hotels & Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service | USD$ | CAD$ | ||
| Double | Single | Double | Single | |
| Apr 9 - Apr 18 2009 | 3,767 | 5,003 | 4,257 | 5,653 |
| Apr 19 - May 13 2009 | 4,856 | 6,675 | 5,487 | 7,543 |
| May 14 - Oct 7 2009 | 6,364 | 8,852 | 7,191 | 10,003 |
| Oct 8 - Oct 13 2009 | 5,226 | 6,757 | 5,906 | 7,636 |
• Prices are per person
• Double means two people occupying a room
• Triple and Child rates are available
Includes
• 2 days Rocky Mountaineer - Standard and Superior include Rocky Mountaineer RedLeaf service whilst Deluxe features Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service
• 4 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 3 dinners
• 9 nights hotel accommodation
• 3 nights bedroom accommodation onboard VIA Rail Canada
• Tour to Maligne Lake with Walk (departures Apr 25 - May 29th, 09) or Cruise (departures from May 29th, 09 onwards)
• Banff Tour, ( including Sulphur Mountain Gondola from April 22nd, 09)
• Niagara Falls Day trip
• Icefields Parkway tour between Jasper and Lake Louise, venture on to the Athabasca glacier aboard the famous Ice fields explorer (April 24th, 09 departures onwards)
• Documentation package
Not Included
• Rocky Mountaineer fuel surcharge $30 pp
• Airport transfers
• Rail Station transfers in Vancouver, Banff, Jasper, and Toronto
• Meals, other than onboard the Rocky Mountaineer, VIA Rail & Niagara Falls Day trip
• Trip Cancellation Insurance
• Baggage handling and gratuities
• National Park Pass
• GST
