Highlights of the Rockies

Vancouver is a delicious juxtaposition of urban sophistication and on-your-doorstep wilderness adventure. The mountains and seascape make the city an outdoor playground for hiking, skiing, kayaking, cycling, and sailing—and so much more—while the cuisine and arts scenes are equally diverse, reflecting the makeup of Vancouver’s ethnic (predominantly Asian) mosaic. Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most livable cities, and it’s easy for visitors to see why. It’s beautiful, it’s outdoorsy, and there’s a laidback West Coast vibe. On the one hand, there’s easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, a fabulous variety of beaches, and amazing parks. At the same time, the city has a multicultural vitality and cosmopolitan flair. The attraction is as much in the range of food choices—the fresh seafood and local produce are some of North America’s best—as it is in the museums, shopping, and nightlife.Vancouver’s landscaping also adds to the city’s walking appeal. In spring, flowerbeds spill over with tulips and daffodils while sea breezes scatter scented cherry blossoms throughout Downtown; in summer office workers take to the beaches, parks, and urban courtyards for picnic lunches and laptop meetings. More than 8 million visitors each year come to Vancouver, Canada’s third-largest metropolitan area. Because of its peninsula location, traffic flow is a contentious issue. Thankfully, Vancouver is wonderfully walkable, especially in the downtown core. The North Shore is a scoot across the harbor, and the rapid-transit system to Richmond and the airport means that staying in the more affordable ’burbs doesn’t have to be synonymous with sacrificing convenience. The mild climate, exquisite natural scenery, and relaxed outdoor lifestyle keep attracting residents, and the number of visitors is increasing for the same reasons. People often get their first glimpse of Vancouver when catching an Alaskan cruise, and many return at some point to spend more time here.

Vancouver is a delicious juxtaposition of urban sophistication and on-your-doorstep wilderness adventure. The mountains and seascape make the city an outdoor playground for hiking, skiing, kayaking, cycling, and sailing—and so much more—while the cuisine and arts scenes are equally diverse, reflecting the makeup of Vancouver’s ethnic (predominantly Asian) mosaic. Vancouver is consistently ranked as one of the world’s most livable cities, and it’s easy for visitors to see why. It’s beautiful, it’s outdoorsy, and there’s a laidback West Coast vibe. On the one hand, there’s easy access to a variety of outdoor activities, a fabulous variety of beaches, and amazing parks. At the same time, the city has a multicultural vitality and cosmopolitan flair. The attraction is as much in the range of food choices—the fresh seafood and local produce are some of North America’s best—as it is in the museums, shopping, and nightlife.Vancouver’s landscaping also adds to the city’s walking appeal. In spring, flowerbeds spill over with tulips and daffodils while sea breezes scatter scented cherry blossoms throughout Downtown; in summer office workers take to the beaches, parks, and urban courtyards for picnic lunches and laptop meetings. More than 8 million visitors each year come to Vancouver, Canada’s third-largest metropolitan area. Because of its peninsula location, traffic flow is a contentious issue. Thankfully, Vancouver is wonderfully walkable, especially in the downtown core. The North Shore is a scoot across the harbor, and the rapid-transit system to Richmond and the airport means that staying in the more affordable ’burbs doesn’t have to be synonymous with sacrificing convenience. The mild climate, exquisite natural scenery, and relaxed outdoor lifestyle keep attracting residents, and the number of visitors is increasing for the same reasons. People often get their first glimpse of Vancouver when catching an Alaskan cruise, and many return at some point to spend more time here.

Board the legendary Rocky Mountaineer for one of the world’s great rail journeys. Settled into your Gold Leaf Service glass-dome carriage, you’ll traverse dramatic mountain passes and deep canyon walls as the landscapes of the Canadian Rockies unfold around you – a procession of scenery that cannot be experienced any other way. As daylight fades over the high country, arrive in Kamloops and unwind for the evening at a hotel selected by Rocky Mountaineer.

The second day aboard the Rocky Mountaineer brings the journey’s most breathtaking scenery. Savour delicious cuisine paired with local wines and craft beers as peaks, glaciers and river valleys reveal themselves beyond the glass dome. Arrive at Lake Louise, known as the Diamond in the Wilderness, and settle into a two-night Scenic Special Stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, where your Lakeview Room places one of the world’s most celebrated natural wonders as your permanent backdrop.

This morning’s Scenic Enrich experience brings the story of Lake Louise to life in the most immersive way, a guided walk along the shore with a Mountain Adventure Guide whose captivating stories of the lake’s discovery and the remarkable history of this place add a layer of meaning that transforms a beautiful walk into something genuinely memorable. 

Scenic Enrich
Join a Mountain Adventure Guide for a picturesque walk along the shores of iconic Lake Louise, hearing the captivating stories of its discovery and the rich history that has shaped this extraordinary place over time.

Scenic Freechoice Dining:
Choose between a French-Canadian Brasserie-style dining experience overlooking the spectacular lake or the very best in contemporary Canadian cuisine, both set within the elegant surrounds of the Chateau, where attentive service and refined flavours make every meal an occasion.

Departing Lake Louise, take a moment to absorb the still glacial hues of either Emerald Lake or Moraine Lake (accessible seasonally), tucked into the breathtaking Valley of the Ten Peaks, before continuing along the historic Bow Valley Parkway. This scenic route once connected Lake Louise and Banff and offers remarkable views at every turn. Arrive in Banff and settle into a two-night Scenic Special Stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs, one of Canada’s most iconic hotels set in the heart of World Heritage-listed Banff National Park.

The evening brings two Scenic Enrich experiences that speak to the depth of this journey. 

Scenic Enrich
Meet a retired member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for a fascinating and personal insight into the enduring importance of the Mounties, past and present.

Scenic Enrich
An intimate dinner concert in one of the historic hotel’s most elegant spaces, where the soothing melodies of a classical violin and cello duet create an evening of rare refinement.

Departing Lake Louise, take a moment to absorb the still glacial hues of either Emerald Lake or Moraine Lake (accessible seasonally), tucked into the breathtaking Valley of the Ten Peaks, before continuing along the historic Bow Valley Parkway. This scenic route once connected Lake Louise and Banff and offers remarkable views at every turn. Arrive in Banff and settle into a two-night Scenic Special Stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs, one of Canada’s most iconic hotels set in the heart of World Heritage-listed Banff National Park.

The evening brings two Scenic Enrich experiences that speak to the depth of this journey. 

Scenic Enrich
Meet a retired member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for a fascinating and personal insight into the enduring importance of the Mounties, past and present.

Scenic Enrich
An intimate dinner concert in one of the historic hotel’s most elegant spaces, where the soothing melodies of a classical violin and cello duet create an evening of rare refinement.

Spanning more than 6,600 square kilometres of World Heritage-listed wilderness, Banff National Park is among the most magnificent, protected landscapes on earth. Today is yours to explore it, as actively or as unhurriedly as you wish, with your choice of Scenic Freechoice experiences. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Heli Flightseeing Banff: Lift off and venture into one of earth’s most dramatic mountain landscapes via helicopter. Weave between the iconic Three Sisters Peaks as sheer rock faces rise around you and the true scale of the Canadian Rockies sinks in. Rugged peaks, glittering lakes and untouched wilderness surround you on every side, with the winding Bow River far below, a breathtaking experience that cannot be replicated from the ground.

Bow River Float Trip: Just minutes from downtown Banff, step onto the Bow River and let it carry you through one of earth’s most spectacular mountain landscapes. No experience needed, just a sense of wonder. Drift peacefully downstream as towering peaks rise on every side, wildflowers line the banks and water birds glide alongside. Keep your eyes open, as wildlife has a habit of appearing when you least expect it.

E-Bike & Hike Johnston Canyon : A guided e-bike tour through mountain forest and along shimmering lakeshores, followed by a hike into Banff’s most beloved canyon, walking deeper into towering rock walls until the spectacular Lower Falls thunders into view. Two iconic Banff experiences, beautifully combined into one extraordinary day.

Banff Gondola: Ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for a stunning bird’s-eye view of Banff township and six mountain ranges stretching to every horizon.

Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont Banff Springs: Rejuvenate in the mineral pools of the Willow Stream Spa, drawing energy from the mountains around you in this serene and beautifully appointed sanctuary (available on select early season departures only).

Journey north along the Icefields Parkway, consistently ranked among the world’s great scenic drives, pausing to glide onto the icy expanse of the Athabasca Glacier aboard an Ice Explorer. Standing on ice that has been forming for centuries, surrounded by the vast Columbia Icefield, is an experience that quietly recalibrates one’s sense of scale. Arrive in Jasper and retreat to the warm, lodge-style comfort of the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, nestled within the awe-inspiring wilderness of Jasper National Park. This evening, the choice of where to dine is yours. 

Scenic Freechoice Dining:
Select from a range of included dining experiences at your hotel tonight – from Italian to a classic steakhouse – all within the beautiful surrounds of the lodge.

Journey north along the Icefields Parkway, consistently ranked among the world’s great scenic drives, pausing to glide onto the icy expanse of the Athabasca Glacier aboard an Ice Explorer. Standing on ice that has been forming for centuries, surrounded by the vast Columbia Icefield, is an experience that quietly recalibrates one’s sense of scale. Arrive in Jasper and retreat to the warm, lodge-style comfort of the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, nestled within the awe-inspiring wilderness of Jasper National Park. This evening, the choice of where to dine is yours. 

Scenic Freechoice Dining:
Select from a range of included dining experiences at your hotel tonight – from Italian to a classic steakhouse – all within the beautiful surrounds of the lodge.

Spanning an impressive area of approximately 11,000 square kilometres, World Heritage-listed Jasper is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Explore this stunning region today, choosing from a range of Scenic Freechoice experiences. 

Scenic Enrich
Join a guided wildlife tour into Jasper’s natural wonderland, where elk, deer, black bears, moose and mountain goats thrive in their pristine habitats, an intimate encounter with the wild heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Scenic Freechoice:
Harley-Davidson Sidecar Tour: Gear up, climb in and feel the rumble of a Harley-Davidson beneath you as you roll out into the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Wind up dramatic mountain roads where jaw-dropping views of the Athabasca Valley stretch before you, or venture off the beaten track into the wilder, quieter side of Jasper that most visitors never encounter. Open air, open road and the Rockies all around, the kind of experience that stays with you.

Athabasca River Rafting: Float the very same waters that fur traders navigated over two centuries ago, deep in the heart of one of the world’s most celebrated national parks. No experience needed. Gentle rapids add just the right touch of excitement, and the riverbanks reward those who pay attention, with elk, moose, wolves, eagles and bears making regular appearances.

Maligne Valley & Lakes: Journey deep into the spectacular Maligne Valley on an interpretive drive through the heart of Jasper National Park. Witness Medicine Lake, a remarkable natural phenomenon that disappears entirely each year, before arriving at Maligne Lake where impossibly vivid water, soaring peaks on every horizon and three glaciers in plain view frame the iconic Spirit Island, one of the most photographed scenes in all of Canada.

Wildfire Peak-Nic: In July 2024, a wildfire of historic proportions swept through Jasper National Park, the largest in over a century. On this 4km hike through one of Canada’s most dramatically transformed landscapes, witness new growth, wildflowers pushing through ash and wildlife quietly returning. At the peak, share a hot lunch and hear why wildfire is not destruction, but nature’s most powerful tool for renewal.

Leave the grandeur of Jasper behind as you journey through the sweeping, sunlit landscapes of British Columbia toward Sun Peaks, a charming alpine village surrounded by lush forests, winding rivers and sparkling lakes. A welcoming haven for outdoor enthusiasts in every season, it offers a different but equally beautiful face of the Canadian wilderness. Stay overnight at the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel.

Leave the grandeur of Jasper behind as you journey through the sweeping, sunlit landscapes of British Columbia toward Sun Peaks, a charming alpine village surrounded by lush forests, winding rivers and sparkling lakes. A welcoming haven for outdoor enthusiasts in every season, it offers a different but equally beautiful face of the Canadian wilderness. Stay overnight at the Sun Peaks Grand Hotel.

Travel through scenic British Columbia landscapes past the Thompson and Fraser rivers, passing through the historic gold rush town of Lillooet before arriving in Whistler, one of the world’s most celebrated alpine destinations. On arrival, visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, a place that beautifully embodies the living cultures and traditions of two unique Nations, the Squamish and Lil’wat peoples. Settle into a two-night stay at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, a haven of alpine luxury at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. 

Scenic Enrich
Join renowned black bear expert and researcher Michael Allen for an enlightening and personal session about these extraordinary creatures, their behaviour, their place in the ecosystem and the remarkable work being done to protect them.

Travel through scenic British Columbia landscapes past the Thompson and Fraser rivers, passing through the historic gold rush town of Lillooet before arriving in Whistler, one of the world’s most celebrated alpine destinations. On arrival, visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, a place that beautifully embodies the living cultures and traditions of two unique Nations, the Squamish and Lil’wat peoples. Settle into a two-night stay at the Fairmont Chateau Whistler, a haven of alpine luxury at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. 

Scenic Enrich
Join renowned black bear expert and researcher Michael Allen for an enlightening and personal session about these extraordinary creatures, their behaviour, their place in the ecosystem and the remarkable work being done to protect them.

Set in the spectacular Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Whistler is a world unto itself, where alpine scenery of the highest order meets a vibrant village atmosphere and near-limitless opportunities for discovery. Today is entirely yours to shape, with your choice of Scenic Freechoice experiences. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Peak 2 Peak Gondola: Two mountains. Infinite possibilities. The Peak 2 Peak connects the summits of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, opening up a vast alpine world in a single, spectacular journey. Whether you’re here to hike, explore or simply stand in awe of one of the most dramatic landscapes in Canada, this is the way to see it all.

Zip Lining Over Whistler Valley: Soar above the valley between two legendary mountains, flying high over ancient forests and glacial creeks on four thrilling ziplines. Connected by suspension bridges, elevated boardwalks and forest trails, this is a complete treetop experience, with elevated viewing decks offering breathtaking vistas that stop even the most seasoned travellers in their tracks.

Whistler Heli Flightseeing: Lift off and experience Whistler the way it was truly meant to be seen. Peak to breathtaking peak – soaring summits, sparkling glacier-fed lakes and endless mountain terrain laid out before you in one sweeping, exhilarating panorama.

Whistler Mountain Adventure Tour: Venture beyond the village into raw untamed backcountry that most visitors never encounter, with hidden roads, secret viewpoints and spectacular scenery. The highlight is Whistler’s thriving black bear population, with sightings from the comfort of your vehicle a genuine possibility. Round out the day at the top of the world-famous Olympic Ski Jumps for panoramic mountain and valley views.

Cross the Georgia Strait by ferry, with beautiful coastal views accompanying the passage, and arrive in Victoria, a city where elegant Victorian architecture, lush gardens and a deeply felt British colonial heritage create one of Canada’s most charming atmospheres. Delight in a two-night Scenic Special Stay at the iconic Fairmont Empress, set directly on the waterfront of Victoria’s celebrated Inner Harbour.

Victoria, the capital of a province whose license plates brazenly label it “The Best Place on Earth,” is a walkable, livable seaside city of fragrant gardens, waterfront paths, engaging museums, and beautifully restored 19th-century architecture. In summer, the Inner Harbour—Victoria’s social and cultural center—buzzes with visiting yachts, horse-and-carriage rides, street entertainers, and excursion boats heading out to visit pods of friendly local whales. Yes, it might be a bit touristy, but Victoria’s good looks, gracious pace, and manageable size are instantly beguiling, especially if you stand back to admire the mountains and ocean beyond. At the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria dips slightly below the 49th parallel. That puts it farther south than most of Canada, giving it the mildest climate in the country, with virtually no snow and less than half the rain of Vancouver. The city’s geography, or at least its place names, can cause confusion. Just to clarify: the city of Victoria is on Vancouver Island (not Victoria Island). The city of Vancouver is on the British Columbia mainland, not on Vancouver Island. At any rate, that upstart city of Vancouver didn’t even exist in 1843 when Victoria, then called Fort Victoria, was founded as the westernmost trading post of the British-owned Hudson’s Bay Company. Victoria was the first European settlement on Vancouver Island, and in 1868 it became the capital of British Columbia. The British weren’t here alone, of course. The local First Nations people—the Songhees, the Saanich, and the Sooke—had already lived in the areas for thousands of years before anyone else arrived. Their art and culture are visible throughout southern Vancouver Island. You can see this in private and public galleries, in the totems at Thunderbird Park, in the striking collections at the Royal British Columbia Museum, and at the Quw’utsun’Cultural and Conference Centre in nearby Duncan. Spanish explorers were the first foreigners to explore the area, although they left little more than place names (Galiano Island and Cordova Bay, for example). The thousands of Chinese immigrants drawn by the gold rushes of the late 19th century had a much greater impact, founding Canada’s oldest Chinatown and adding an Asian influence that’s still quite pronounced in Victoria’s multicultural mix. Despite its role as the provincial capital, Victoria was largely eclipsed, economically, by Vancouver throughout the 20th century. This, as it turns out, was all to the good, helping to preserve Victoria’s historic downtown and keeping the city largely free of skyscrapers and highways. For much of the 20th century, Victoria was marketed to tourists as “The Most British City in Canada,” and it still has more than its share of Anglo-themed pubs, tea shops, and double-decker buses. These days, however, Victorians prefer to celebrate their combined indigenous, Asian, and European heritage, and the city’s stunning wilderness backdrop. Locals do often venture out for afternoon tea, but they’re just as likely to nosh on dim sum or tapas. Decades-old shops sell imported linens and tweeds, but newer upstarts offer local designs in hemp and organic cotton. And let’s not forget that fabric prevalent among locals: Gore-Tex. The outdoors is ever present here. You can hike, bike, kayak, sail, or whale-watch straight from the city center, and forests, beaches, offshore islands, and wilderness parklands lie just minutes away. A little farther afield, there’s surfing near Sooke, wine touring in the Cowichan Valley, and kayaking among the Gulf Islands.

Victoria, the capital of a province whose license plates brazenly label it “The Best Place on Earth,” is a walkable, livable seaside city of fragrant gardens, waterfront paths, engaging museums, and beautifully restored 19th-century architecture. In summer, the Inner Harbour—Victoria’s social and cultural center—buzzes with visiting yachts, horse-and-carriage rides, street entertainers, and excursion boats heading out to visit pods of friendly local whales. Yes, it might be a bit touristy, but Victoria’s good looks, gracious pace, and manageable size are instantly beguiling, especially if you stand back to admire the mountains and ocean beyond. At the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria dips slightly below the 49th parallel. That puts it farther south than most of Canada, giving it the mildest climate in the country, with virtually no snow and less than half the rain of Vancouver. The city’s geography, or at least its place names, can cause confusion. Just to clarify: the city of Victoria is on Vancouver Island (not Victoria Island). The city of Vancouver is on the British Columbia mainland, not on Vancouver Island. At any rate, that upstart city of Vancouver didn’t even exist in 1843 when Victoria, then called Fort Victoria, was founded as the westernmost trading post of the British-owned Hudson’s Bay Company. Victoria was the first European settlement on Vancouver Island, and in 1868 it became the capital of British Columbia. The British weren’t here alone, of course. The local First Nations people—the Songhees, the Saanich, and the Sooke—had already lived in the areas for thousands of years before anyone else arrived. Their art and culture are visible throughout southern Vancouver Island. You can see this in private and public galleries, in the totems at Thunderbird Park, in the striking collections at the Royal British Columbia Museum, and at the Quw’utsun’Cultural and Conference Centre in nearby Duncan. Spanish explorers were the first foreigners to explore the area, although they left little more than place names (Galiano Island and Cordova Bay, for example). The thousands of Chinese immigrants drawn by the gold rushes of the late 19th century had a much greater impact, founding Canada’s oldest Chinatown and adding an Asian influence that’s still quite pronounced in Victoria’s multicultural mix. Despite its role as the provincial capital, Victoria was largely eclipsed, economically, by Vancouver throughout the 20th century. This, as it turns out, was all to the good, helping to preserve Victoria’s historic downtown and keeping the city largely free of skyscrapers and highways. For much of the 20th century, Victoria was marketed to tourists as “The Most British City in Canada,” and it still has more than its share of Anglo-themed pubs, tea shops, and double-decker buses. These days, however, Victorians prefer to celebrate their combined indigenous, Asian, and European heritage, and the city’s stunning wilderness backdrop. Locals do often venture out for afternoon tea, but they’re just as likely to nosh on dim sum or tapas. Decades-old shops sell imported linens and tweeds, but newer upstarts offer local designs in hemp and organic cotton. And let’s not forget that fabric prevalent among locals: Gore-Tex. The outdoors is ever present here. You can hike, bike, kayak, sail, or whale-watch straight from the city center, and forests, beaches, offshore islands, and wilderness parklands lie just minutes away. A little farther afield, there’s surfing near Sooke, wine touring in the Cowichan Valley, and kayaking among the Gulf Islands.

Victoria, the capital of a province whose license plates brazenly label it “The Best Place on Earth,” is a walkable, livable seaside city of fragrant gardens, waterfront paths, engaging museums, and beautifully restored 19th-century architecture. In summer, the Inner Harbour—Victoria’s social and cultural center—buzzes with visiting yachts, horse-and-carriage rides, street entertainers, and excursion boats heading out to visit pods of friendly local whales. Yes, it might be a bit touristy, but Victoria’s good looks, gracious pace, and manageable size are instantly beguiling, especially if you stand back to admire the mountains and ocean beyond. At the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria dips slightly below the 49th parallel. That puts it farther south than most of Canada, giving it the mildest climate in the country, with virtually no snow and less than half the rain of Vancouver. The city’s geography, or at least its place names, can cause confusion. Just to clarify: the city of Victoria is on Vancouver Island (not Victoria Island). The city of Vancouver is on the British Columbia mainland, not on Vancouver Island. At any rate, that upstart city of Vancouver didn’t even exist in 1843 when Victoria, then called Fort Victoria, was founded as the westernmost trading post of the British-owned Hudson’s Bay Company. Victoria was the first European settlement on Vancouver Island, and in 1868 it became the capital of British Columbia. The British weren’t here alone, of course. The local First Nations people—the Songhees, the Saanich, and the Sooke—had already lived in the areas for thousands of years before anyone else arrived. Their art and culture are visible throughout southern Vancouver Island. You can see this in private and public galleries, in the totems at Thunderbird Park, in the striking collections at the Royal British Columbia Museum, and at the Quw’utsun’Cultural and Conference Centre in nearby Duncan. Spanish explorers were the first foreigners to explore the area, although they left little more than place names (Galiano Island and Cordova Bay, for example). The thousands of Chinese immigrants drawn by the gold rushes of the late 19th century had a much greater impact, founding Canada’s oldest Chinatown and adding an Asian influence that’s still quite pronounced in Victoria’s multicultural mix. Despite its role as the provincial capital, Victoria was largely eclipsed, economically, by Vancouver throughout the 20th century. This, as it turns out, was all to the good, helping to preserve Victoria’s historic downtown and keeping the city largely free of skyscrapers and highways. For much of the 20th century, Victoria was marketed to tourists as “The Most British City in Canada,” and it still has more than its share of Anglo-themed pubs, tea shops, and double-decker buses. These days, however, Victorians prefer to celebrate their combined indigenous, Asian, and European heritage, and the city’s stunning wilderness backdrop. Locals do often venture out for afternoon tea, but they’re just as likely to nosh on dim sum or tapas. Decades-old shops sell imported linens and tweeds, but newer upstarts offer local designs in hemp and organic cotton. And let’s not forget that fabric prevalent among locals: Gore-Tex. The outdoors is ever present here. You can hike, bike, kayak, sail, or whale-watch straight from the city center, and forests, beaches, offshore islands, and wilderness parklands lie just minutes away. A little farther afield, there’s surfing near Sooke, wine touring in the Cowichan Valley, and kayaking among the Gulf Islands.