6-Day Rockies via Rail Train & Bus Tour From Calgary to Vancouver

Exploring the majestic Canadian Rockies by rail and bus is a captivating journey that promises breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences. This 6-day tour from Calgary to Vancouver takes travelers on an adventure through Banff, Yoho, and Jasper National Parks, showcasing iconic sights like Moraine Lake and Athabasca Falls. With guided tours in both Mandarin and English, comfortable accommodations, and the scenic VIA Rail train experience, this tour offers a seamless way to discover the region’s natural wonders. As the adventure concludes in Vancouver, the opportunity to take in the city’s vibrant culture awaits, leaving a lasting impression on the traveler.

Good To Know

• 6-day journey exploring the Canadian Rockies, including Banff, Yoho, and Jasper national parks, with a combination of rail and bus transportation.
• Includes four nights of accommodations, national park fees, and a bilingual guide providing services in Mandarin and English.
• Features highlights such as Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Athabasca Falls, and Maligne Lake, with a balance of guided activities and free time.
• Concludes in Vancouver, allowing travelers to explore the city’s waterfront and Stanley Park after the tour.
• Mixed feedback on train service, with some reports of cancellations and delays, as well as refund issues for upgraded accommodations.

Tour Overview and Highlights

Offering a 6-day journey from Calgary to Vancouver, this Rockies tour showcases the stunning natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

Travelers will witness the majestic Rocky Mountains, serene lakes, cascading waterfalls, and impressive glaciers in the national parks of Banff, Yoho, and Jasper.

The tour includes overnights in Calgary, Banff, and Jasper, culminating in Vancouver.

With a 4.0 average rating from 13 reviews, this tour provides an immersive experience of the region’s natural wonders via a combination of rail and bus transportation, led by a dedicated driver and bilingual guide.

Inclusions and Accommodations

This Rockies tour package includes four nights of accommodations and covers the necessary national park fees.

Travelers will experience a mix of transportation, including bus and rail. The air-conditioned vehicle is equipped with a bilingual guide who provides services in both Mandarin and English. An economy-class VIA Rail train ticket is included, along with gratuities and traffic accident liability coverage.

Travelers can opt to add extra activities, excursions, and meals as desired.

While the tour is generally accessible for strollers, it’s not recommended for those with back problems, heart issues, or other serious medical conditions.

The tour has a maximum capacity of 50 travelers.

Pickup and Meeting Points

The tour package offers pickup services at the Calgary International Airport (2000 Airport Rd NE, Calgary, AB).

Travelers should proceed to the Westar Service Counter at Gate 5 upon arrival. Complimentary airport pickup is available at various times.

The tour concludes at the Pacific Central Station in Vancouver (1150 Station St #225, Vancouver, BC).

It’s important to note that confirmation of the booking is received within 48 hours, subject to availability.

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, and strollers are allowed, but it’s not wheelchair accessible.

The maximum group size is 50 travelers.

Traveler Information and Restrictions

Travelers receive confirmation of their booking within 48 hours, subject to availability.

This tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, heart issues, or other serious medical conditions, as infants must sit on laps.

While the tour is stroller accessible, it’s not wheelchair friendly. The maximum group size is 50 travelers.

Feedback indicates mixed experiences, with some issues around train cancellations due to wildfires, refunds for upgraded accommodations, and communication challenges.

However, many travelers have enjoyed the alternative itineraries and exploring the national parks.

Customer Feedback and Issues

Reviews of the Rockies tour from Calgary to Vancouver have been mixed, with some travelers voicing specific concerns. Certain guests complained about train cancellations due to wildfires, impacting their subsequent travel plans. There were also issues with refunds for upgraded accommodations and communication from the tour operator, Westar Travel. Some travelers expressed dissatisfaction with the train seating arrangements and delays. However, others provided positive feedback on alternative itineraries and their overall enjoyment of the national parks. The table below highlights the key customer feedback and issues reported:

Feedback Type	Positive	Negative
Train Service		Cancellations, Delays, Seating
Accommodations		Refund Issues
Communication		Poor from Operator
Itinerary	Alternative Options	N/A
Overall Experience	National Parks	N/A

Banff National Park Exploration

Banff National Park’s towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and lush forests captivate visitors from around the world.

On this tour, travelers explore the natural wonders of Banff, from the iconic Moraine Lake and the serene Lake Louise to the thundering Bow Falls.

Guests can admire the stunning scenery on a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain, hike through the Hoodoos, and spot wildlife like grizzly bears, moose, and elk.

With the perfect balance of guided activities and free time, the Banff portion of the tour allows travelers to fully enjoy the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies.

Jasper National Park Sights

Traversing the winding roads of Jasper National Park, visitors are treated to a tapestry of rugged peaks, crystalline lakes, and abundant wildlife.

The park’s highlights include:

1. The majestic Athabasca Falls, a powerful cascade thundering over limestone cliffs and carved by glacial meltwater.

2. Maligne Lake, renowned for its stunning turquoise waters and the iconic Spirit Island, a scenic viewpoint accessible only by boat.

3. The Jasper Skytram, which soars over 7,500 feet to the summit of Whistlers Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies.

These natural wonders showcase Jasper’s diverse and captivating landscapes, making it a must-see destination on any Rockies adventure.

Vancouver City Arrival and Departure

The tour concludes at the Pacific Central Station in downtown Vancouver, where travelers disembark and can easily access their onward destinations.

The station is a central transportation hub, offering connections to local transit, taxis, and shuttle services.

Passengers can explore the vibrant city of Vancouver at their leisure, taking in the bustling waterfront, Stanley Park, or the renowned culinary scene.

The tour package doesn’t include post-tour accommodations, allowing travelers the flexibility to extend their stay or depart as needed.

Travelers are responsible for arranging their own transportation and accommodations for the final portion of their journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Upgrade the via Rail Train Ticket?

According to the overview, there are optional add-on activities and excursions available, which may include the ability to upgrade the VIA Rail train ticket. However, the specifics of any upgrade options are not explicitly stated.

Can I Extend My Stay in Any of the Cities Visited?

Yes, travelers can extend their stay in any of the cities visited on the tour. Additional nights in Calgary, Banff, Jasper, or Vancouver can be booked separately through the tour operator or directly with hotels.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

Yes, there may be discounts available for seniors and students on this tour. Travelers should inquire about any applicable discounts when booking their tour with the tour operator, Westar Travel.

What Is the Cancellation and Refund Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation and refund policy for this tour varies. Travelers should check with the tour operator, Westar Travel, for their specific cancellation and refund terms, which may include fees and restrictions depending on the timing of the request.

Can I Request a Different Pickup or Drop-Off Location?

Travelers can request a different pickup or drop-off location, but it’s subject to availability and may incur additional fees. It’s best to check with the tour operator directly to discuss any customization requests.

The Sum Up

This 6-day Rockies via Rail Train & Bus Tour from Calgary to Vancouver offers a comprehensive journey through the stunning landscapes of Banff, Yoho, and Jasper National Parks. Travelers can witness iconic sights, enjoy wildlife spotting, and explore the vibrant culture of Vancouver. With comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and a scenic VIA Rail train experience, this tour provides an unforgettable adventure through the Canadian Rockies.