7-Day Winter VIA Canadian Rockies Exploration Tour from Calgary to Vancouver: Banff, Lake Louise, Lake Minnewanka, Jasper National Park and Icefield Parkway

Calgary – Spiral Tunnel (pass by) – Emerald Lake (20 minutes) – Natural Bridge (15 minutes) – Lake Louise – Lunch at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – Marble Canyon – Banff

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.

Here, you may also choose from two optional add-on meals (mandatory, choose one):
* Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Lunch
* Winter Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Afternoon Tea at Fairview Bar

After lunch, we'll head to Marble Canyon for a light hike. The canyon features numerous wooden bridges, and the trail zigzags across winding streams. Towering limestone canyons and icefalls on either side create a magnificent landscape, and in winter, the waterfalls are even more crystalline. In the evening, we'll check into our Banff hotel.
  

Banff – Bow Lake (15 min) – Peyto Lake (90 min) – Crowfoot Glacier (drive by) – Lake Louise Village Lunch (45 min, optional at own expense) – Vermilion Lakes Viewpoint (15 min) – Lake Minnewanka (20 min) – Two Jack Lake (15 min) – Banff

Travel along the scenic Icefields Parkway with its snow-covered peaks and pristine winter landscapes.

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), with the choice to join the Group Optional Lunch add-on at Grill & Bar (Asian or Western set menu, optional).

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.
The tour concludes around sunset, approximately 17:30 PM in Banff.
  

Banff – Johnston Canyon Upper Falls (120 min) – Banff Town Lunch Time (60 min, optional at own expense) – Bow Falls (15 min) – Surprise Corner – Banff Gondola – Banff

Your journey begins in Calgary, leaving behind the bustling city as you travel through the charming alpine town of Canmore en route to Banff National Park.

The 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). Guests may freely explore local dining options or choose the Group Optional Lunch add-on at Seoul Country Restaurant (optional).

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 (mandatory), ascending Sulphur Mountain for a breathtaking 360° panoramic view of the snow-covered peaks and Banff town below.  The tour concludes around sunset, approximately 17:15 PM in Banff.
  

Morning at Leisure – 14:30 PM Meet at the hotel lobby for the Banff to Jasper Intercity Bus – Icefields Parkway (approx. 4 hours driving time) – 18:45 PM Arrive in Jasper

Enjoy a peaceful morning without the usual wake-up call. Check out of your hotel by 11:00 am and feel free to leave your luggage at the front desk. After a relaxed brunch in the charming town, return to the hotel lobby to await the intercity bus to Jasper. The bus will then travel along the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), one of National Geographic's Top 10 Scenic Drives, offering breathtaking views of snow-covered landscapes. You’ll arrive in Jasper by approximately 18:45 PM, where the winter snow adds a magical, fairy-tale atmosphere.

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.
- The intercity bus will arrive at your hotel between 14:30 PM and 14:45 PM. 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 in Jasper has been pre-booked, so please show your valid ID at check-in to complete the process.

8:00 AM Arrive at Jasper Train Station - 9:00 AM Train departs - Jasper to Vancouver VIA Rail (approx. 23.5 hours travel time) - Next day 8:00 AM Arrive at Vancouver Pacific Station

Jasper Train Station Address: Jasper Station, 607 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0

Embark on a scenic journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies aboard the VIA Rail train. Travel along 800 kilometers of majestic mountain landscapes, offering stunning views of the Rockies. You’ll pass through alpine meadows, snow-capped waterfalls, and glaciers, with a chance to spot the highest peak in Canada, Mount Robson. As the poet describes: "The Rockies are a temple for the soul, cleansing one's spirit." As sunset falls and night envelops you, you’ll rest in the tranquility of nature.

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.
- The train departs at 9:00 AM, so please arrive at least 90 minutes early to check-in and check your luggage (bring a valid ID and your VIA Rail e-ticket for boarding).

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.
  

Arrive at Pacific Railway Station at approximately 8:00 AM Vancouver time. Welcome to Vancouver. Upon arrival at Pacific Railway Station, the tour concludes and the group disbands on their own. 
Pacific Railway Station Address: 1150 Station St, Vancouver, BC V6A 4C7

Notes:
- The listed arrival time is approximate. We recommend not scheduling any connecting transportation on the same day to avoid delays caused by potential train schedule changes.
- In the event of unforeseen circumstances or force majeure — including but not limited to transportation capacity adjustments, temporary airport or station closures, cancellations by carriers, weather conditions, or traffic control — the travel agency will assist you with necessary changes.
- This package includes VIA Rail Canada train tickets. Train details and refund/change policies are subject to the final confirmation of VIA Rail Canada in the event of unforeseen or force majeure situations.
- It is strongly recommended to purchase travel insurance in advance.