Home > Canada and Alaska > Prairies > 9 Day Golden Peaks: Journey to the West with the Rocky Mountaineer
9 DAY GOLDEN PEAKS: JOURNEY TO THE WEST WITH THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER
TRIP DESCRIPTION
Discover the beauty of the Canadian Rockies and journey to the west coast through winding mountainside tunnels, turquoise blue lakes and never-ending rows of forestry in this 10-day adventure. You will experience breathtaking views and incredible hospitality as you venture from vibrant capital cities to quaint ski villages in the Canadian mountains, capturing your eyes and heart. This tour begins in the city of Edmonton and makes stops in Jasper, Quesnel and Whistler, with a day trip to Victoria before ending in Northern Vancouver.
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Start Location: Edmonton
End Location: Vancouver
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
- Neon Sign Museum
- Elk Island National Park
- Edmonton City Tour
- Muttart Conservatory
- Jasper Skytram
- Maligne Canyon & Maligne Lake Boat Tour
- 2 Day Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf Package
- Butchart Gardens
- Capilano Bridge
- Vancouver City Tour
ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrive in Edmonton, AB
Welcome to Edmonton, the capital of the Canadian province of Alberta, located on the North Saskatchewan River. Known as Canada’s festival city, with more than 30 festivals each year, from the popular Edmonton Folk Music Festival to the International Street Performers Festival, they bring the city to life no matter what the season. Winter in Edmonton is the time to explore the city’s cultural scene for immersive experiences at the Royal Alberta Museum or the Art Gallery of Alberta or embrace some indoor fun (and shopping) at the famous West Edmonton Mall.
Today you will arrive in Edmonton at your leisure and meet in the evening with your tour leader for a briefing and a Welcome Dinner followed by a walking tour of the Neon Sign Museum!
Overnight: Edmonton
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Edmonton, AB - City Tour, Muttart Conservatory, Elk Island
Today we will go on a city tour of Edmonton where your guide will take you to some of the capital city’s top highlights. Listen to stories about the interesting history, geography and architecture of the area as you roam through this wonderful Albertan city. Stops include Alberta’s Legislature building, Citadel Theatre, Sir Winston Churchill Square and various historical sites.
Next, we head to the Muttart Conservatory, one of Canada’s largest indoor botanical gardensin the shape of several glass pyramid buildings – each featuring a different biome. Three of the pyramids are permanent displays of plants from tropical, temperate, and arid regions and the fourth is used for seasonal displays of ornamental flowering plants. Breathe in the fresh air, relax and enjoy.
Lastly, we visit Elk Island National Park, a UNESCO designated Biosphere Reserve and known as a place that played a great role in Canada’s bison conservation story. Watch herds of plain and woods bison roam around the tall grass prairies and learn about the history of how this beautiful creature was brought back from near extinction. This is where Cree and Métis have lived and hunted for generations and a place of gathering – a place where connections are made
Overnight: Edmonton
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Edmonton to Jasper, AB – Jasper Skytram with Lunch, Free Time
Today, begin our adventure in the Canadian Rockies as we make our way into Jasper National Park. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. Upon arrival, we start our tour at the Jasper Skytram, Canada’s highest and longest guided aerial tramway. Lookout and be amazed by breathtaking views of mountain ranges, turquoise lakes and rows of subalpine trees as you are calmy whisked up to an altitude of 2,263 metresin 7 minutes. Once at the peak, enjoy a lunch offering panoramic views and an excellent full-service dining experience. After enjoying the view, we make our way down to the townsite with the rest of your afternoon free to explore before dinner.
Overnight: Jasper
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Jasper, AB – Maligne Canyon & Maligne Lake Boat Trip
The Maligne Canyon Walk Tour in Jasper, Alberta is one of Jasper’s most popular hikes with mountain peak views and magnificent waterfalls that will have you in awe. Our guide will take us to the bottom of the Maligne Canyon - the deepest accessible canyon in Jasper National Park. We will learn about Jasper’s Maligne Valley, Karst topography, and the mystery of Jasper’s disappearing Medicine Lake.
In the afternoon, we will depart on a day cruise on Maligne Lake, famous for its azure waters and towering mountain peaks. Listen to vibrant stories from your professional tour guide about the geology, wildlife and history of the surrounding area and take in the spectacular views. The cruise will stop by the peaceful Spirit Island, holding deep significance for the Indigenous Stoney Nation inspiring wonder and inspiration within the community for thousands of years. A perfect place to take photography as it is untouched land, with no visitors allowed upon the island. Enjoy dinner together before an evening of leisure.
Overnight: Jasper
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: Jasper – Kamloops, BC onboard Rocky Mountaineer
Travel we travel onboard Rocky Mountaineer from Jasper to Kamloops, located in the heart of the British Columbia Interior. As you journey west and south you will be surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the Continental Divide and by the river valleys of the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains. Breakfast & lunch will be served onboard. Today’s highlights include Mount Robson, Pyramid Falls, the climb over Yellowhead Pass, and the journey along the North Thompson River as you approach Kamloops. Upon arrival at the Kamloops Station, we will be transferred by motor coach to our overnight accommodation.
The pick-up time for tomorrow morning's motor coach transfer to the train station will be posted in the
lobby of our hotel.
Overnight: Vancouver
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: Kamloops – Vancouver, BC onboard Rocky Mountaineer
After an overnight stay at your Kamloops hotel, transfer by motor coach to the train station. Our journey continues west towards the Pacific Ocean and the coastal city of Vancouver. On today’s journey we will again see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the Interior, through winding river canyons and pristine forests, to the Coast and Cascade Mountains and the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley. Highlights include the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River and the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon. Upon arrival in Vancouver, we will be transferred to our overnight accommodation and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Vancouver
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: Day trip to Victoria, BC
This morning we will take the ferry across to Vancouver Island to spend the day in Victoria. Arrive in British Columbia’s capital city and fall in love with its vibrant culture, rich history and colourful gardens. This harbourside city has a bustling downtown with a strong British influence as you will see historical buildings, antique shops and tea rooms on every corner.
We will start the day with time to enjoy the incomparable beauty of Butchart Gardens. At one time this was the site of a large limestone quarry. As the limestone deposits became exhausted, Jennie Butchart began transitioning her husband Robert Butchart’s empty quarry into the spectacular gardens we experience today. Showcasing an extensive and diverse variety of plants and flowers throughout of the many areas of the gardens, visitors today are left in awe.
After time in the gardens, we make our way to the harbourfront and enjoy a High Tea experience at the Fairmont Empress, one of the oldest hotels in Victoria. Afterwards, we will take a sightseeing tour of Victoria and uncover the history of this old British city while showcasing its transition to the modern city it is today. We explore Oak Bay, the harbourfront, Beacon Hill and Chinatown, the second oldest Chinatown in North America. There will be some time at leisure before dinner and we depart by Ferry toVancouver.
Overnight: Vancouver
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: Vancouver City Tour, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Farewell Dinner
On our city sightseeing tour this morning, we discover why Vancouver is one of the most interesting cities in North America. Our tour takes us through Stanley Park, Chinatown, Gastown, and past English Bay where you will hear fascinating stories of Vancouver's history, architecture and art scene. After free time to have lunch, we will then experience the natural wonder of British Columbia’s Pacific coastal rainforest and the thrill of standing 150 meters (450 ft) above the Capilano River at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Tonight, we will enjoy a Farewell dinner together to finalize the journey in the Rockies and Pacific Coast together
Overnight: Vancouver
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9: Depart - Vancouver Airport
Today marks the end the 9-day journey through Western Canada. In the morning, catch the shuttle to the
Rocky Mountaineer where you will enjoy the train journey home.
DATES & PRICES
We accept 
AVAILABILITY
START DATE
END DATE
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
DEPOSIT
BOOK
Note: Arrival and departure flights can be booked to for any time on first and last day of tour.
Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHY CHOOSE ANDERSON VACATIONS?
Anderson Vacations
Other Companies
Small Group Tours
Travel with a limited number of participants for a personalized journey with a tour leader.Experienced Tour Leaders
Who have gone through intensive vetting and training.(But most contract their tour leaders from Anderson Vacations.)
Canadian Travel Experts
With at least 30 years of experience.Min. 95% Satisfaction Rate
From past guests.Travel to unique places, visit more attractions each day.
Without the distractions of tipping.Activities and excursions included as part of the tour.
(Not as add-ons.)Sustainability
Planting one tree for every passenger that travels with us.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Transportation on comfortable motorcoach
- Professional Tour Leader
- 9 nights of accommodation (3.5 - 4 star, or best available)
- 27 meals: 9 breakfasts, 8 lunch, 10 dinners
- 3 Day Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf Package
- Sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
EXCLUSIONS
- 5% provincial tax on top of tour base rate
- Gratuities to Tour Leader (Recommend $5-$7 per person per day)
- Gratuities to Coach Driver (Recommend $3-$4 per person per day)
- Meals and attractions not listed
- Credit card payment fees, where applicable
- Airfare — domestic and international
- Travel insurance (Strongly recommended)
- Items of a personal nature
- Airport transfers (can be added on request at additional charge)
Why Take An Anderson Tour?
Seasoned Tour Guides
Get a deeper understanding with storytelling tailored to your interests.
Space To Breathe
We never max out buses even if we use the same size bus as the competition.
All Inclusive
No hidden expenses along the way. Competitors offer activities as an extra - we don't
Our guide training manual is accredited by ACTA/CITC Canadian Educational Standard Inc. Now used as the standard in educational college programs.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore
Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
Tour Questions
What is the maximum number of travellers in a group?
Anderson Vacations specializes in Small Group Fully Escorted tours. If the tour is classified as a ‘Classic Tour’ up to 24 persons may join the tour although tours commonly travel with anywhere between 18 to 24 travellers. If the tour is classified as a 'Tour of Distinction’ only up to 18 persons may join the tour and many 'Tours of Distinction' travel with 12 to 18 travellers.
What are Guaranteed Departures?
After dreaming about travel to an exciting destination, arranging for time off work, booking your flights the last thing you need is for your trip to be cancelled. Anderson vacation's pre-Guaranteed tours take the uncertainty away from planning your travel and give you peace of mind to book our tours. Pre-Guaranteed Tours are group tours that we have already confirmed as certain to travel on the specified date. All 'Guaranteed Tours' will travel except in the event of a natural disaster or a catastrophic event that is beyond our control. They may already have the minimum number of people booked or else are tours that are known to be popular. Only select departures of tours are 'pre-Guaranteed'.
What happens if I book on a tour that is not Guaranteed?
We pride ourselves on providing “a small shared group experience.” In the event that we have fewer than ten participants on a tour we will offer a “small-group surcharge” to ensure that the tour runs as scheduled. This fee, which is up to 15% of the “land” portion of the tour, will be offered to you as an option to continue with the trip. This fee will cover the costs associated with handling a smaller group.
What is the average age of passengers for this tour?
Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+.
How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?
Some tours are mainly coach based and may not be physically demanding while others may require walking inclines or on rough surfaces to access interesting locations. Please check with us and your booking agent carefully and discuss your mobility restrictions before completing any tour booking to ensure this style of travel is right for you.
Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?
Yes, we do accommodate dietary restrictions (within reason) such as, food allergies, vegan, vegetarian, etc. There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices.
Booking & Flight Questions
Do you arrange airport transfers?
Yes, we can assist you with airport transfers for you in most locations at a reasonable extra cost. Several tours have airport transfers already included. Please contact us for more details.
Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?
Yes, we can certainly assist with booking additional nights of hotel accommodation for you before and after your fully escorted tour. This is available upon request and subject to availability. Please inquire for further information and prices.
How much luggage should I bring?
Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for baggage is 20 kilograms or about 40 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages but there may be places where you will be required to wheel in your bags for quicker access. Be sure to advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker, or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of a coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations guidelines.
I am a solo traveller. Is there a single surcharge?
There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo travellers can choose to pay a Single Supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share with a co-traveller of the same gender, we have a Twin Share option that is offered for most tours where you share a hotel room with another same gender traveller. In this case, you will not be charged for Single Supplement.
Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?
Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire or contact us regarding this option, as prices and availability vary from tour to tour.
Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?
Yes, you can! Anderson Vacations works with many private groups and helps to customize a tour to traveller’s needs. Please contact us for more details.
Are gratuities included in the tour cost?
For convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals that are specified in the itinerary are included in the tour price. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 10-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Coach Driver (where appropriate) and Tour Director are entirely at your discretion. We recommend about CDN $5.00 per person, per day, for your Driver and CDN$7.00 per person, per day for your Tour Leader.
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Ready? Have More Questions?
Over 25 years offering custom trips and small group tours.
INQUIRE ABOUT THIS TRIP
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Seasoned Tour Guides
Get a deeper understanding with storytelling tailored to your interests.
Space To Breathe
We never max out buses even if we use the same size bus as the competition.
All Inclusive
No hidden expenses along the way. Competitors offer activities as an extra - we don't
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Tour Code
GPJW
9 Day Golden Peaks: Journey to the West with the Rocky Mountaineer
9 days
Created On: 27 Apr 2024
Highlights
- Neon Sign Museum
- Elk Island National Park
- Edmonton City Tour
- Muttart Conservatory
- Jasper Skytram
- Maligne Canyon & Maligne Lake Boat Tour
- 2 Day Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf Package
- Butchart Gardens
- Capilano Bridge
- Vancouver City Tour
Inclusions
- Transportation on comfortable motorcoach
- Professional Tour Leader
- 9 nights of accommodation (3.5 - 4 star, or best available)
- 27 meals: 9 breakfasts, 8 lunch, 10 dinners
- 3 Day Rocky Mountaineer Goldleaf Package
- Sightseeing as detailed in the itinerary
Exclusions
- 5% provincial tax on top of tour base rate
- Gratuities to Tour Leader (Recommend $5-$7 per person per day)
- Gratuities to Coach Driver (Recommend $3-$4 per person per day)
- Meals and attractions not listed
- Credit card payment fees, where applicable
- Airfare — domestic and international
- Travel insurance (Strongly recommended)
- Items of a personal nature
- Airport transfers (can be added on request at additional charge)
Dates & Prices
AVAILABILITY
START DATE
END DATE
PRICE
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT
DEPOSIT
AVAILABLE
Wed, 18 Sep 2024
Thu, 26 Sep 2024
$6,385 USD
$1,295 USD
$500 USD
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Edmonton, AB
Welcome to Edmonton, the capital of the Canadian province of Alberta, located on the North Saskatchewan River. Known as Canada’s festival city, with more than 30 festivals each year, from the popular Edmonton Folk Music Festival to the International Street Performers Festival, they bring the city to life no matter what the season. Winter in Edmonton is the time to explore the city’s cultural scene for immersive experiences at the Royal Alberta Museum or the Art Gallery of Alberta or embrace some indoor fun (and shopping) at the famous West Edmonton Mall.
Today you will arrive in Edmonton at your leisure and meet in the evening with your tour leader for a briefing and a Welcome Dinner followed by a walking tour of the Neon Sign Museum!
Overnight: Edmonton
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Edmonton, AB - City Tour, Muttart Conservatory, Elk Island
Today we will go on a city tour of Edmonton where your guide will take you to some of the capital city’s top highlights. Listen to stories about the interesting history, geography and architecture of the area as you roam through this wonderful Albertan city. Stops include Alberta’s Legislature building, Citadel Theatre, Sir Winston Churchill Square and various historical sites.
Next, we head to the Muttart Conservatory, one of Canada’s largest indoor botanical gardensin the shape of several glass pyramid buildings – each featuring a different biome. Three of the pyramids are permanent displays of plants from tropical, temperate, and arid regions and the fourth is used for seasonal displays of ornamental flowering plants. Breathe in the fresh air, relax and enjoy.
Lastly, we visit Elk Island National Park, a UNESCO designated Biosphere Reserve and known as a place that played a great role in Canada’s bison conservation story. Watch herds of plain and woods bison roam around the tall grass prairies and learn about the history of how this beautiful creature was brought back from near extinction. This is where Cree and Métis have lived and hunted for generations and a place of gathering – a place where connections are made
Overnight: Edmonton
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Edmonton to Jasper, AB – Jasper Skytram with Lunch, Free Time
Today, begin our adventure in the Canadian Rockies as we make our way into Jasper National Park. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way. Upon arrival, we start our tour at the Jasper Skytram, Canada’s highest and longest guided aerial tramway. Lookout and be amazed by breathtaking views of mountain ranges, turquoise lakes and rows of subalpine trees as you are calmy whisked up to an altitude of 2,263 metresin 7 minutes. Once at the peak, enjoy a lunch offering panoramic views and an excellent full-service dining experience. After enjoying the view, we make our way down to the townsite with the rest of your afternoon free to explore before dinner.
Overnight: Jasper
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Jasper, AB – Maligne Canyon & Maligne Lake Boat Trip
The Maligne Canyon Walk Tour in Jasper, Alberta is one of Jasper’s most popular hikes with mountain peak views and magnificent waterfalls that will have you in awe. Our guide will take us to the bottom of the Maligne Canyon - the deepest accessible canyon in Jasper National Park. We will learn about Jasper’s Maligne Valley, Karst topography, and the mystery of Jasper’s disappearing Medicine Lake.
In the afternoon, we will depart on a day cruise on Maligne Lake, famous for its azure waters and towering mountain peaks. Listen to vibrant stories from your professional tour guide about the geology, wildlife and history of the surrounding area and take in the spectacular views. The cruise will stop by the peaceful Spirit Island, holding deep significance for the Indigenous Stoney Nation inspiring wonder and inspiration within the community for thousands of years. A perfect place to take photography as it is untouched land, with no visitors allowed upon the island. Enjoy dinner together before an evening of leisure.
Overnight: Jasper
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: Jasper – Kamloops, BC onboard Rocky Mountaineer
Travel we travel onboard Rocky Mountaineer from Jasper to Kamloops, located in the heart of the British Columbia Interior. As you journey west and south you will be surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the Continental Divide and by the river valleys of the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains. Breakfast & lunch will be served onboard. Today’s highlights include Mount Robson, Pyramid Falls, the climb over Yellowhead Pass, and the journey along the North Thompson River as you approach Kamloops. Upon arrival at the Kamloops Station, we will be transferred by motor coach to our overnight accommodation.
The pick-up time for tomorrow morning's motor coach transfer to the train station will be posted in the
lobby of our hotel.
Overnight: Vancouver
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 6: Kamloops – Vancouver, BC onboard Rocky Mountaineer
After an overnight stay at your Kamloops hotel, transfer by motor coach to the train station. Our journey continues west towards the Pacific Ocean and the coastal city of Vancouver. On today’s journey we will again see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the Interior, through winding river canyons and pristine forests, to the Coast and Cascade Mountains and the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley. Highlights include the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River and the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon. Upon arrival in Vancouver, we will be transferred to our overnight accommodation and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.
Overnight: Vancouver
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 7: Day trip to Victoria, BC
This morning we will take the ferry across to Vancouver Island to spend the day in Victoria. Arrive in British Columbia’s capital city and fall in love with its vibrant culture, rich history and colourful gardens. This harbourside city has a bustling downtown with a strong British influence as you will see historical buildings, antique shops and tea rooms on every corner.
We will start the day with time to enjoy the incomparable beauty of Butchart Gardens. At one time this was the site of a large limestone quarry. As the limestone deposits became exhausted, Jennie Butchart began transitioning her husband Robert Butchart’s empty quarry into the spectacular gardens we experience today. Showcasing an extensive and diverse variety of plants and flowers throughout of the many areas of the gardens, visitors today are left in awe.
After time in the gardens, we make our way to the harbourfront and enjoy a High Tea experience at the Fairmont Empress, one of the oldest hotels in Victoria. Afterwards, we will take a sightseeing tour of Victoria and uncover the history of this old British city while showcasing its transition to the modern city it is today. We explore Oak Bay, the harbourfront, Beacon Hill and Chinatown, the second oldest Chinatown in North America. There will be some time at leisure before dinner and we depart by Ferry toVancouver.
Overnight: Vancouver
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: Vancouver City Tour, Capilano Suspension Bridge, Farewell Dinner
On our city sightseeing tour this morning, we discover why Vancouver is one of the most interesting cities in North America. Our tour takes us through Stanley Park, Chinatown, Gastown, and past English Bay where you will hear fascinating stories of Vancouver's history, architecture and art scene. After free time to have lunch, we will then experience the natural wonder of British Columbia’s Pacific coastal rainforest and the thrill of standing 150 meters (450 ft) above the Capilano River at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Tonight, we will enjoy a Farewell dinner together to finalize the journey in the Rockies and Pacific Coast together
Overnight: Vancouver
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9: Depart - Vancouver Airport
Today marks the end the 9-day journey through Western Canada. In the morning, catch the shuttle to the
Rocky Mountaineer where you will enjoy the train journey home.
