Canadian Rockies Encompassed

Arrive at any time.

Catch a ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo and drive along the Oceanside Route to Campbell River. Visit the museum in the town which respectfully acknowledges the First Nations of North Vancouver Island by preserving, interpreting, and sharing the history of these Nations on the lands now known as Campbell River. After seeing the exhibits at the museum attend an optional dinner with the group.

Take in the scenery while travelling to Port Hardy at the northern tip of Vancouver Island. Enjoy impressive views of coastline and lush forests. Then take the short ferry ride to Alert Bay and pay a visit to the World's Tallest Totem before visiting the U'mista Cultural Centre, whose mandate is to ensure the survival and preservation of the cultural heritage of the Kwakwa̱ka̱ʼwakw. Walk on some of the trails dotting this tiny island before transferring back to Port McNeill for more free time and an optional happy hour at a local spot. Continue on to Port Hardy in the early evening and check into your hotel.

Embark at dawn for a day-long ferry ride through the famous Inside Passage. The glacial fjords provide spectacular scenery along the route and a safe haven for all types of wildlife, including orcas and porpoises. The ride is long, but spectacular. With a full day to relax, enjoy the scenery, read a book, or dine at the onboard restaurants. Reach Prince Rupert late in the evening.

Drive one of the most scenic roads in the world from Prince Rupert to Smithers and discover the First Nations cultures of Northern BC on a day tour around Smithers. Visit the Gitanyow Totems, Battle Hill, and 'Ksan Museum & Historical Village.

Enjoy a free day to explore the wilderness around Smithers. Opt to visit Moricetown Canyon or hike one of many trails in the area.

Enjoy a visit to Twin Falls after breakfast and then spend free time in Smithers before travelling to Prince George, the largest city in Northern British Columbia.

Travel to Jasper National Park. En route, stop at the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson. Visit the Interpretation Centre, and go for a short hike to take in the views.

Enjoy a free day to explore Jasper National Park. Opt to hike at Maligne Canyon, cross the lake on a boat cruise, or join a scenic river rafting tour. In the evening, visit the Miette Hot Springs.

Travel to Canmore via one of the most scenic drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway. Stop at the Columbia Icefield en route. Along the 300km (186.4 mi) ride, a spectacle unfolds before our eyes: lush coniferous forests, immense mountains, turquoise lakes, high-falling cascades, and humbling glaciers. We stop a number of times along the way to take in the scenery and search for wildlife.

Travel to Calgary, a modern city that honours its cowboy roots. Opt to visit museums, the Olympic Park, or wet your whistle at a cowboy bar.

Enjoy a free day to explore Calgary. This evening, opt to meet new members of the group at a welcome meeting.

Discover the beautiful town of Banff; opt to view wildlife, take a gondola ride, or hike up a mountain for spectacular views. With free time upon arrival, Banff has tons to offer. There are plenty of optional activities for all interests and activity levels. It's also just as pleasant to wander the main streets, pop in and out of shops or walk along the river.

Continue to Lake Louise, view the emerald blue waters of this alpine lake, and opt to hike to one of the Tea Houses. Lake Louise is that iconic Canadian Rockies locale. Don't miss the chance to snag the perfect photo.

Travel to Kelowna in the Okanagan Valley, stopping for a tasting at a local winery en route. Kelowna has become a foodie haven in recent years – opt to visit one of the many craft breweries in the city this evening.

Drive through the beautiful coastal mountains to the village of Whistler, one of the locations of the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Enjoy a free day to explore Whistler. Opt to ride a gondola to the top of the mountain, hike, or zipline.

Visit the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre and go on an interpretive guided tour of the museum, before enjoying free time in the laid-back mountain town of Whistler. Travel to Vancouver, and spend the afternoon in this beautiful, easy-going city.

Depart at any time.

Hotels (14 nts), lodges (4 nts).

Private vehicle, ferry, walking.