6-Day Canadian Rockies and VIA Railway to Calgary Winter Semi-Guided Tour from Vancouver Tour Code: 093-18981 westar_travel WRVY06

Please wait at the hotel lobby from 8:00 to 8:30 AM to board the Jasper - Banff bus, heading to Banff 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. In the afternoon, we will arrive in Banff Town, often referred to as the "Little Switzerland." During the winter season, Banff Town takes on a magical ambiance with its snow-covered landscapes. After dropping you off at the hotel, you'll have time to explore Banff freely.

Jasper - Banff Bus: Each passenger is allowed to bring 1 piece of carry-on luggage, 1 suitcase, 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.

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)

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.