cross-Canada Odyssey

Departure: 7:30 am
Arrival: 5:35 pm

Travel aboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the coastal city of Vancouver to the interior’s largest city, Kamloops. On today’s journey, you will see dramatic changes in scenery from the lush green fields of the Fraser River Valley, through forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coastal Mountains, to the desert- like environment of the interior. Highlights include the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and snow sheds along the Thompson River. Your day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along the shores of Kamloops Lake and into your overnight destination, Kamloops. [B] [L]

Departure: 6:15 am
Arrival: 7:20 pm

Your journey continues eastward to the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. Once again, you will see a spectacular range of scenery as you travel across ranchlands, along rocky lakeshores, over high mountain passes, and through the remarkable tunnels that form part of the rich rail history of the Canadian Rockies. Today’s highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven; the climb over Rogers Pass; Kicking Horse Canyon; a remarkable feat of railroad engineering known as the Spiral Tunnels, and of course the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Your rail journey ends in the village of Lake Louise this evening. [B] [L]

Departure: 8:30 am
Arrival: 5:30 pm

Learn about culture, geology, and wildlife while exploring the spectacular sights of Banff. You’ll be taken to some of the most incredible sights and sounds that western Canada has to offer. Heading up the Banff Gondola to the peak of Sulphur Mountain before completing the day with a historical tour at Lake Minnewanka. Overnight in Banff [B, L].

Departure: 9:25 am
Arrival: 6:30 pm

Discover Canada’s most scenic mountain roadway, The Icefields Parkway. This is the route to over one hundred visible glaciers, turquoise lakes, and rushing waterfalls. Venture onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier in a specially designed Ice Explorer then step out onto a glass-floored observation platform at the Skywalk.. Overnight in Jasper.  [B, L]

Departure: 12:30 pm
Arrival: 2:30 pm 

As you travel eastward from Jasper, enjoy the panoramic views of mountains, lakes, and forests as the train winds through Alberta. Spend the day crossing the vast, scenic prairies of Saskatchewan and Manitoba. VIA Rail offers observation cars for an unobstructed view of the passing landscapes. Meals are available in the dining car, offering a selection of local cuisine. 

As the train enters Northern Ontario, watch the scenery change from open prairies to the rugged landscapes of the Canadian Shield. This region is known for its dense forests, lakes, and rivers. Keep an eye out for wildlife sightings. [B, L, D]

Make the most of a leisurely day to fully immerse yourself in the splendor of Lake Louise. Seize the opportunity to visit the stunning Lake Agnes, featuring charming teahouse nestled at an elevation of 2134 meters.Alternatively, opt for a gondola ride up the Lake Louise Ski Resort, treating yourself to a panoramic view of Lake Louise and its surroundings. [B]