Christmas in the Canadian Rockies Winter Rail Vacations | Via Rail

Day 1 Vancouver to Jasper | Via Rail This afternoon, board VIA Rail’s ‘Canadian’ train for the famous rail journey to the majestic Canadian Rockies. Step back in time to the days of classic rail travel, riding in the original steel ‘streamliner’ railcars made famous by the ‘Canadian’ in the 1950s. Each car has been lovingly restored with air conditioning, a dining car, lounge car, and dome car. Pass through the rich fields of the Fraser Valley and the towering peaks of the Coastal Mountains before entering the Fraser Canyon. Follow the Thompson River through spectacular landscapes as you enjoy dinner (included), then retreat to your private quarters that have been converted into a bedroom.

Day 2 Jasper Arrival | VIA Rail Rise to the snowy peaks of the Canadian Rockies today as you arrive in Jasper and transfer to your hotel. The day is free to explore this unique alpine community. (breakfast included today onboard VIA Rail)

Day 3 Jasper to Banff | Coach Travel southward along the Icefields Parkway to Banff. This spectacular drive through glacier country features massive snow covered mountains, frozen waterfalls and broad-reaching valleys. Banff is situated in Banff National Park; this charming town is buzzing with festive energy at this time of year and has much to offer including winter walks, ice skating, world-class shopping, alpine dining, and holiday excitement around every corner. (breakfast included today)

Day 4 Banff | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 3 Excursions Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of these excursions Option 1. Discover Banff & Its Wildlife Tour Keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, and bighorn sheep on this morning tour of Banff. Scenic highlights include Fairmont Banff Springs, Bow Falls, Surprise Corner Lookout, the Hoodoos Viewpoint & Lake Minnewanka. Option 2. Snowshoeing at Paint Pots Afternoon snowshoe tour on an easy trail winding through a forest of pine trees to the Paint Pots with its ochre colors mineral pools. Option 3. Johnston Canyon Icewalk This morning Johnston Canyon Icewalk tour is an unforgettable experience that will introduce you to stunning frozen waterfalls and amazing views within the canyon.

Depending on the excursion you choose either the morning or afternoon is free to relax in your ‘Castle in the Rockies’ or explore the magical winter wonderland of Banff. (breakfast included today)

Day 5 Banff | Horse Drawn Sleigh Ride & Christmas Dinner Merry Christmas! Enjoy the morning at leisure, and then take a short walk to the stables for a sleigh ride. Your tour in a horse drawn sleigh will manifest the magic of winter. In the evening, join in for a Christmas feast at the Fairmont Banff Springs. The culinary team will go above and beyond to create a memorable dining experience for you and your loved ones to celebrate the holidays. (breakfast, dinner included today)

Day 6 Banff | Lake Louise Small Group Tour This is a full day of exploring and activity. You’ll be led to Lake Louise on a guided tour. At the lake, enjoy free time to create your own traditions together. Explore Lake Louise by foot or on snowshoes, relax in the chateau or rent ice skates on your own. You’ll be returned to your hotel late afternoon after a day filled with wonder and Rocky Mountain splendor. (breakfast included today)

Day 7 Banff to Calgary | Coach Today you will leave behind the fresh mountain air and colourful sights of the Rockies. We will schedule a transfer to bring you to downtown Calgary, or to the Calgary Airport to connect with your flight home.