6 Day Winter Semi-Guided Tour VIA Rail from Vancouver to Calgary
Active
6d
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Journey across Western Canada on this 6-day adventure from Vancouver to Calgary. Begin with the iconic train ride through British Columbia’s coastal mountains to Jasper, then travel by coach along the Icefields Parkway to Banff. Explore turquoise lakes, dramatic canyons, and charming mountain towns with guided and independent experiences in Banff and Lake Louise. Highlights include Yoho National Park, the Columbia Icefield, and the beauty of the Canadian Rockies. A seamless combination of train and road travel designed for global explorers seeking comfort and wonder.
Available options
Standard rate - Seat Ticket
Standard 4Nights - Select Room<br/>Please contact us to reserve: Optional activities must be booked 7 days prior to tour start<br/>Bilingual Tour Guide: Mandarin & English<br/>Duration: 6 days<br/>Booking for one room: Each booking for max 4 pax with one room only
What's included
Traffic Accident Liability
National Park Pass
Driver/Guide: Bilingual guide service ( English and Mandarin during the tour)
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hotel accommodations as listed
What's not included
Meals & All Personal Expenses such as laundry, phone & travel insurance.
Optional add-on Activities, Excursion and Tours listed on the itinerary
Optional add-on Meals listed on the itinerary
Additional costs due to force majeure (e.g., traffic delays, strikes, weather, or schedule changes)
Any type of travel insurance
Optional activities and excursions
Winter Banff Gondola
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Lunch
Optional gratuities (suggest 15cad per person per day)
Available languages
Guide guide
CMN
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Depending on arrival date, travelers’ itinerary sequences may difference from the product discription.
Any of the Optional add-on Activities, Excursion, Tours, and meals must be booked at least 7 days prior to tour start. All add-on items are subject the availability.
This is a combined bus tour. Besides the regular Pickup and drop-off locations, additional points may be added to the tour.
If for any reason you need to leave our group during the trip, you must fill out a “Letter of Liability Release”, no exceptions.
If you have special needs (such as but not limited to: bed type, vegetarian options, high-chairs, etc.) please inform us at least 7 days before your trip. We will do our best to accommodate you, but there is no guarantee.
If you have a connecting international flight after the tour, please ensure that your flight departs after 10:30 pm.（**Please understand that depending on schedule, traffic and weather conditions, your arrival time in Calgary may be adjusted **）
The North American Hotel Standard Room is equipped with one large bed or two standard beds. If you have a specific request for bed types, please inform us at the time of booking and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Westar will not be responsible for the performance of this Agreement if prevented or delayed by acts of God, strikes or other labour relations matters, accidents, weather, traffic, airport conditions, lack of performance by third-party suppliers, or other causes beyond Westar’s reasonable control from meeting its terms. Nor will Westar be responsible for any loss or damage relating to trip cancellations or any other cancellations.
Meeting point
Guests will go to the【Pacific Central Station】station to check-in by themselves.
Train station address：1150 Station St, Vancouver, BC V6A 4C7
Important notes
Airport pick up SMS will be sent before you arrival.
About Banff
Banff is a resort town within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. Known for its stunning mountain landscapes, hot springs, and outdoor adventures, it's one of the most visited destinations in the Canadian Rockies. The town offers a unique blend of natural beauty, wildlife, and a charming mountain culture.
Top Attractions
Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola takes visitors to the top of Sulphur Mountain for stunning views of the Canadian Rockies. The ride offers panoramic vistas and access to hiking trails and a restaurant.
Adventure
2-3 hours
Moderate ($50-$60 CAD per adult)
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is one of the most famous and iconic lakes in the world. Known for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, it's a must-visit for hiking, photography, and relaxation.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to visit, parking fees apply
Banff Upper Hot Springs
The Banff Upper Hot Springs offer a relaxing soak in natural mineral waters with stunning mountain views. The historic facility has been a popular attraction since the late 1800s.
Relaxation
1-2 hours
Budget ($10-$15 CAD per adult)
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake is another iconic turquoise lake in Banff National Park. Known for its stunning views and hiking trails, it's a popular spot for photography and outdoor activities.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free to visit, parking fees apply
Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyon is a beautiful hiking trail that leads to stunning waterfalls. The trail is well-maintained and offers breathtaking views of the canyon and waterfalls.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bison
Bison is a local delicacy, often served as steaks or burgers. It's lean, flavorful, and a sustainable choice.
Main course
Gluten-free and paleo-friendly options available.
Poutine
A Canadian classic, poutine consists of fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Banff offers many variations, including gourmet and vegetarian options.
Snack
Vegetarian and vegan options available.
Elk
Elk is another local favorite, often served as steaks or in stews. It's lean, tender, and packed with flavor.
Main course
Gluten-free and paleo-friendly options available.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Mountain biking
Whitewater rafting
Rock climbing
Skiing and snowboarding
Soaking in hot springs
Scenic gondola rides
Picnicking by the lake
Best Time to Visit
June to August, December to March
Summer offers warm weather and ideal conditions for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. Winter is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. Crowds are highest during these peak seasons.
20-30°C (summer), -10-5°C (winter)
68-86°F (summer), 14-41°F (winter)
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English, French
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Time Zone
Mountain Time Zone (MT), GMT-7 (standard time), GMT-6 (daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Banff is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, visitors should always be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Calgary International Airport • 130 km (81 miles)
By train
Banff Station
By bus
Banff Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Roam Transit offers affordable and convenient bus services throughout Banff and the surrounding areas. Buses are frequent and well-connected.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Banff Taxi, Uber (limited availability)
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Banff
Banff Springs
Canmore
Day trips
Canmore
25 km (16 miles) • Half day to full day
Canmore is a charming town near Banff, offering a more relaxed atmosphere and plenty of outdoor activities. It's known for its hiking trails, local shops, and stunning mountain views.
Yoho National Park
56 km (35 miles) • Full day
Yoho National Park is a stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its turquoise lakes, waterfalls, and hiking trails. It's a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Kootenay National Park
120 km (75 miles) • Full day
Kootenay National Park is another stunning national park in the Canadian Rockies, known for its diverse landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor activities. It's a great option for a full-day trip from Banff.
Festivals
Banff Mountain Film and Book Festival • October
Banff Jazz and Blues Festival • August
Banff International Snow Sculpting Competition • January
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake early in the morning to avoid crowds and secure parking.
- Consider purchasing a Parks Canada pass for unlimited entry to national parks and historic sites.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change rapidly, especially in the mountains.
- Book accommodations, activities, and restaurants in advance, especially during peak seasons.
- Be aware of wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk, and maintain a safe and non-intrusive distance.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
