Question 1

Will I be travelling with a tour group, or is this an independent trip?

Accepted Answer

As our trips are personalized just for you, there's no fixed group schedule or rigid itinerary. You'll be travelling independently, with the freedom to explore at your own pace, and can choose the scheduled activities that match your interests. Our local experts help plan and coordinate your travel details and offer guidance and support throughout your trip.

Question 2

Can I modify or customize this trip?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We personalize all our guests’ trips to fit their exact tastes and needs:

Add extra days: Spend more time at locations you’d like to explore.
Modify the route and stops: Omit areas that don’t interest you, add destinations and iconic landmarks, or adjust the direction of your itinerary.
Pick your experiences: Choose from our vast selection of small-group sightseeing tours and unique local activities.

Simply discuss your travel goals with our local travel experts and they'll ensure your trip aligns with your preferences and budget.

Question 3

On some trips, I see hotels referred to as Comfort, Superior, and Deluxe. What is that?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

Where do I sleep on the train and what are the features of Sleeper Plus Class?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

What is the weather like in the Canadian Rockies in October?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

What is the Jasper Dark Sky Festival?

Accepted Answer

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.

History, Culture, and Starry Skies of the West

Indigenous culture and Jasper Dark Sky Festival

Overnight rail journey from the west coast to the prairies

Immersive experiences at Métis Crossing, Alberta’s premier cultural destination

Option to sleep under the stars in a Sky Dome at Métis Crossing

Enjoy a stargazing session and skytram ride in Jasper National Park

Travel along the beautiful Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper

Top experiences and features

Dome viewing area on The Canadian train

Your Questions Answered

What’s Included

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I be travelling with a tour group, or is this an independent trip?

Can I modify or customize this trip?

On some trips, I see hotels referred to as Comfort, Superior, and Deluxe. What is that?

Where do I sleep on the train and what are the features of Sleeper Plus Class?

What is the weather like in the Canadian Rockies in October?

What is the Jasper Dark Sky Festival?

Sample Itinerary

Arrive in Vancouver

VIA Rail - Depart Vancouver

VIA Rail - Arrive in Edmonton

Discover Edmonton and Métis Crossing

Explore Métis Crossing

Métis Crossing to Jasper

Explore Jasper

Jasper to Banff

Sample Itinerary

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Accommodations

Métis Crossing

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Stay in Lake Louise

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