Indigenous culture and Jasper Dark Sky Festival

Our vacations are not typically ‘escorted.’ You are not tied into a specific group, or a rigid daily itinerary but rather have the freedom of ‘independent’ travel.

This allows you, with the help of our Canadian Insiders, to personalize your trip to suit your occasion, interests, timeframe and budget. We’ll guide you through the process and provide the reassurance of seamless connections, customer service support, and scheduled activities tailored to your taste.

Your trip can be as rich as you’d like, and completely arranged around your interests and needs. The greatest benefit of working with us is our local knowledge. You can customize your trip and decide what you’d like to see and do.

If your trip is a special occasion, we’ll make sure it is unforgettable. Or if you’re traveling with a group, we’ll take care of the logistics so you can share time together stress-free.

On some of our trips, you’ll see that we categorize our hotel rooms by Comfort, Superior and Deluxe class, which generally translates into the traditional 3-, 4- or 5-star designation (equivalent to Sheraton and Fairmont). However, sometimes we use the same hotel for more than one category and distinguish the room by size, floor level or view.

Our Comfort Level hotels include our favorite 3 star hotels, in great locations and with excellent service.

Our Superior Level hotels provide amazing value for clients wanting something more upscale but not at the price of a top-end 5 star resort. Superior level hotels are some of our favorites because of the character and unique charm that you won't find at the average chain hotel.

In Deluxe Level hotels, it's likely you'll be staying at one of the iconic Canadian Fairmont Hotels in a room with a view. Built for the Canadian Pacific Railway in the early 20th century, these hotels are luxurious and full of history – ensuring an experience you'll never forget.

This trip itinerary features a private cabin in Sleeper Plus Class on VIA Rail's The Canadian train. Each cabin features comfortable seating that converts to a bed. Cabins include a sink and toilet and access to a shared shower.

In Sleeper Plus Class, you’ll also enjoy gourmet meals in the dining car and access to the train's viewing cars, where you can watch the passing scenery and meet fellow travellers. Complimentary tea, coffee and snacks are available throughout your journey. Alcoholic beverages are not included but are available for purchase.

During the month of October, average temperatures in the Canadian Rockies are between 10 degrees C to -1 degrees C (50 degrees F to 30 degrees F). With some sunny days and comfortable daytime temperatures, it’s a great time of year for walking, hiking, and exploring the landscape without the crowds. At higher elevations, there’s a chance of early snowfall, light rain, and cooler temperatures.

We recommend bringing a range of clothing layers, including a rain jacket or winter coat, during this time of year.

The Jasper Dark Sky Festival is an annual event that takes place in Jasper National Park over 2 or 3 weeks in October. Jasper National Park was named a Dark Sky Preserve in 2011 because of its limited light pollution, so it's the perfect place for stargazing.

The festival celebrates astronomy, science, and everything related to the night sky! Guests can attend presentations and special events, including stargazing sessions, telescope experiences, photography workshops, and more. Please contact one of our Vacation Advisors if you’d like to learn more about the festival.