![Destination: Canada and the Rocky Mountaineer](/assets/images/destinations_assets/dest_RockyMt.jpg)
- Duration
- 7 Days
- Activity Level
- Moderate
- Group Size
- 45
Discover the Canadian Rockies by RailItinerary
Day 1: En Route from U.S. | Arrive in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
Upon arrival to Vancouver International Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the hotel.
As with many Fairmont properties, the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver carries a rich historical legacy having welcomed dignitaries and celebrities since its opening in 1939.
After settling into your room gather with fellow travelers for a special welcome reception.
Overnight: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver (R)
Day 2: Vancouver
Thursday, August 21, 2025
After breakfast set out for guided touring of Vancouver and Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood. This charming area is best known for beautiful Victorian-style architecture, cobblestone streets and vintage lamp posts. See the iconic whistling Steam Clock and stop into one of the many boutiques and indie art galleries.
The remainder of the day is yours to explore Granville Island at leisure. This inviting oasis was once an industrial manufacturing area that transformed into a thriving marketplace and cultural district. Wander the colorful aisles at Public Market to discover an array of fresh produce, artisanal foods, international delicacies and local crafts. Visit a myriad of studios and galleries to witness skilled artisans at work, creating everything from handcrafted jewelry and ceramics to glass art and textiles.
With its location along False Creek, Granville Island provides picturesque waterfront views. The maritime ambiance adds an extra layer of charm to the island experience.
This is also a foodie's paradise—with restaurants and eateries serving everything from gourmet meals to casual snacks. Enjoy a meal with views of the water or opt for a quick bite from one of the food stalls for a true taste of local flavors.
Overnight: Fairmont Hotel Vancouver (B)
Day 3: Vancouver | Rocky Mountaineer | Kamloops
Friday, August 22, 2025
After an early morning check-out transfer to Rocky Mountaineer Station to board the Rocky Mountaineer. Freshly baked scones and a celebratory beverage will be served to toast the beginning of your rail adventure.
The Rocky Mountaineer offers unparalleled hospitality, comfort and unobstructed views. As the train glides through ever-changing landscapes through Fraser Canyon and Thompson Valley settle into plush reclining seats and admire the panoramas passing by. Pristine lakes and dense forests unfold before your eyes, creating opportunities to spot for wildlife that call these rugged terrains home—from majestic eagles soaring above to elk grazing in the valleys.
Following a delicious hand-crafted lunch return to the dome car to listen to expert commentary to gain a deeper understanding of the region's history and natural wonders.
Arriving to Kamloops disembark the train for dinner on your own in town and an overnight at a local hotel.
Overnight: Kamloops Lodging (B,L)
Day 4: Kamloops | Rocky Mountaineer | Banff, Alberta
Saturday, August 23, 2025
Climb back aboard the Rocky Mountaineer heading east to Banff. Enjoy a lovely breakfast, then step onto the outdoor viewing platform to capture photographs of the enigmatic landscape. Today’s highlights include Craigellachie—where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the climb over Rogers Pass, the Spiral Tunnels, Kicking Horse Canyon and the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
Your engineers and onboard hosts will be on the lookout for wildlife—animals often spotted along the rail route include grizzly and black bears, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, elk and eagles.
Throughout the day engage in insightful lectures, participate in a wine tasting, or simply relax and revel in the passing scenery.
The rail journey concludes in Banff where you'll disembark and transfer to your mountain retreat—The Rimrock Resort Hotel—proving an immersive experience amidst the Rockies. The property features a range of dining options, from the upscale Primrose Dining Room, to the laid-back atmosphere of the Larkspur Lounge. Savor locally inspired dishes crafted with precision and care, all while enjoying the breathtaking views that surround the hotel.
Overnight: The Rimrock Resort Hotel (B,L)
Day 5: Banff
Sunday, August 24, 2025
After breakfast ascend to the summit of Sulphur Mountain during a scenic gondola ride. Each fully enclosed four-passenger gondola cabin provides endless views of six magnificent mountain ranges, the Bow Valley and the town of Banff. At the top visit the interactive interpretive center and the Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk, capture photos from the observation deck or grab a snack at one of the restaurants.
Returning to the base of the mountain by gondola enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Peruse the quaint shops and boutiques along Banff's charming Main Street or take a dip in the thermal waters at Banff Hot Springs.
Following an exciting day of exploration take advantage of the hotel's luxurious amenities including a fitness room and indoor pool and hot tub.
Overnight: The Rimrock Resort Hotel (B)
Day 6: Banff | Lake Louise | Moraine Lake
Monday, August 25, 2025
This morning set out on a picturesque excursion to renowned Lake Louise—a pristine setting world famous for its turquoise lake and marvelous glacier peaks. Walk along the lakeshore before entering the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for a delicious lunch.
Continue to Moraine Lake in the rugged Valley of the Tean Peaks, another postcard-perfect setting ideal for photography enthusiasts.
This evening rejoin fellow travel companions for a special farewell dinner to reflect upon this indelible Canadian rail adventure.
Overnight: The Rimrock Resort Hotel (B,L,D)
Day 7: Banff | Calgary | Depart for U.S.
Tuesday, August 26, 2025
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested time take the complimentary group transfer to Calgary International Airport for flights home. (B)
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception
Activity Level
Moderate
The majority of the program's activities take place outdoors, and a fair amount of walking on varying terrain should be expected. Many of the parks have dirt trails, but they are usually fairly smooth for walking. Some have paved pathways and boardwalks. Guests should be able to enter and exit a motor coach without assistance. Guests should also be able to board and disembark trains without assistance, walk between train cars while in motion, and navigate stairs to upper levels of train cars.
If you can walk a moderately paced mile you will be able to enjoy all of the excursions. Keep in mind that you will experience altitudes rising up to 7,705 feet to which you may not be accustomed. It will be important to keep hydrated, get plenty of rest, and not overexert yourself.