Testify to the supreme majesty of Western Canada and Alaska by road, rail and sea on an amazing two-week Canada and USA trip like this one that sends you over the Rockies! The first part of an incredible journey like this is a luxury escorted tour through historic towns and verdant National Parks. Then you have options to experience one of the world’s most romantic train journeys on the Rocky Mountaineer, and embark on this classic USA trip across the glacial waters of Alaska. It’s a fantastic way to tour America and Canada.
USA trips: Explore the majesty of the rockies
Day 1 – Vibrant Vancouver
Welcome to Canada’s vibrant city of Vancouver. On arrival at Vancouver International Airport, you’ll be met and transferred to your luxury downtown hotel. Later, join your traveling concierge for a welcome dinner with drinks at the Zagat-rated YEW Seafood and Bar.
Day 2 – Victoria – Putting the British into British Columbia
Experience the best of Vancouver during your exclusive sightseeing tour. Explore historic Gastown, Chinatown and view the famous totem poles in Stanley Park. Later, board your ferry and relax in the exclusive Seawest Lounge, with scenic coastal views all the way to Victoria. On arrival, an orientation tour introduces you to the Inner Harbor, the ornate Parliament Buildings and Bastion Square.
Day 3 – Exploring Victoria
Begin the day with a visit to Butchart Gardens with ample time to explore the 55 acres of exquisite floral displays. With a botanist on hand, to find out more about your favorite flora before enjoying the afternoon at leisure in Victoria.
Day 4 – The Ultimate Resort of Whistler
Journey across the Strait of Georgia back to the mainland. Travel to Whistler where, on arrival, you visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Center and take part in a one-of-a-kind holistic tea workshop, creating your own tea concoction. On the way to Whistler stop to see the roaring Shannon Falls.
Day 5 – Onto the Napa Valley Of The North
Travel into the lush Okanagan Valley region, known for producing some of the best fruit and hybrid wines in the world. Your home for the night is at the lakeside Delta Grand Okanagan Resort. In the evening, enjoy dinner complemented by local wines.
Day 6 – The Three Exquisite National Parks
Journey through three of Canada’s most breathtaking National Parks: Mount Revelstoke, Glacier and Yoho en route to Emerald Lake, one of Canada’s most outstanding wilderness settings. After dinner, savor a liqueur at the lodge before stargazing under the night sky and roasting s’mores by a lakeside bonfire.
Day 7 – Iconic Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
The morning is yours to relax in the peaceful setting of Emerald Lake before heading to the Spiral Tunnels viewpoint and pass by the spectacular Natural Bridge spanning the Kicking Horse River, before departing for another great icon of the Canadian Rockies, Moraine Lake. An easy walk along the Moraine Lake shoreline is the best way to appreciate the beauty of this famous alpine lake. Then drive to Lake Louise and the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for your stay.
Day 8 – The Unspoiled Wilderness of Banff National Park
Enjoy an interpretive talk along the shore of Lake Louise also known as the ‘Jewel of the Rockies’ and learn about the history and geography of the area. The rest of the morning is at leisure. In the afternoon, head out for the popular resort city of Banff for an orientation tour including a ride onboard the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Enjoy a private meeting with a Royal Canadian Mounted Policeman. Wearing his iconic red serge uniform, he will fascinate you with personal stories. For your evening meal, you are offered a selection of acclaimed restaurants.
Day 9 – At Leisure in Banff
Enjoy a day at leisure to relax and take advantage of the hotel facilities, browse the shops along Banff Avenue or join a helicopter tour of Canada’s Rockies.
Day 10 – Along the Icefields Parkway to Jasper National Park
Travel along the unforgettable Icefields Parkway and witness amazing scenes. At Athabasca Glacier, climb onboard a specially designed Ice Explorer for a guided tour over steep grades, snow and ice as you ascend part way up the glacier. Your home for the next two nights is the beautiful Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, in the heart of Jasper National Park. After a dinner, enjoy a fun and interactive talk by a wildlife guide that will transport you back in time through storytelling and costume.
Day 11 – Jasper National Park and Iconic Maligne Lake
In the morning, embark on a private, narrated cruise on the serene waters of iconic Maligne Lake, one of the jewels of the Canadian Rockies. Stop at Spirit Island, one of the most photographed sites of the Canadian Rockies. Then, join your traveling concierge for an informative walk at Maligne Canyon, one of the most beautiful gorges in the Canadian Rockies. Stroll along the canyon’s trail, past beautiful waterfalls, astounding rock formations and learn about the underground river system. Gain a unique perspective of the beautiful park on an afternoon raft trip.
Day 12 – Mount Robinson and Sun Peaks
If you choose to, board the Rocky Mountaineer (GoldLeaf Service) to relive the golden age of rail travel on your way to Vancouver. Otherwise, head west over Yellowhead Pass and arrive at Mount Robson, the Rockies’ tallest peak at 12,989 feet. Follow the Thompson River as you descend through the Columbia Mountains and arrive at your overnight hotel in the thriving ski resort of Sun Peaks.
Day 13 – Return to Vancouver
Returning to the Pacific Coast, arrive back in Vancouver and head to the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Park. Cross the spectacular suspension bridge, 230 feet above the Capilano River, and join the award-winning Treetops, a guided nature tour along a series of elevated walkways, offering fabulous photo opportunities. In the evening, gather with your traveling concierge and companions for dinner at the hotel.
Day 14 – Depart Vancouver or Join the Post-Tour Alaska Cruise
Depending on your arrangements, transfer to Vancouver International Airport for your onward travel plans, or tour America aboard Holland America Line’s MS Nieuw Amsterdam for an unforgettable USA trip: Alaska Glacier Bay Inside Passage Cruise.
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