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At Canada Rail, we make getting away easier. It's simple. We do the planning. You do the vacationing.
The provinces of British Columbia and Alberta are graced by the majestic Canadian Rockies, a mountain range characterized by its rugged, snow-capped peaks. Among these breathtaking summits is the towering Mt. Robson, offering a glimpse into a region adorned with alpine lakes, abundant wildlife, and numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. Within this scenic landscape lies Yoho National Park, boasting the awe-inspiring Takakkaw Falls. Additionally, the renowned Jasper National Park features the easily accessible Athabasca Glacier, while Banff National Park showcases the stunning Lake Louise, fed by glaciers.
If you are seeking a peaceful getaway to Banff, Jasper, or Canmore without the overwhelming crowds, it is best to plan your visit during the Rockies' low season, also referred to as shoulder season or off-season. This period stretches from September to October and May to June. By doing so, you can avoid the surge in hikers during June to August, as well as the international influx of skiers and snowboarders from January to April. Opting for a vacation during the spring or fall low season presents numerous advantages, such as increased chances of spotting wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and discounted hotel rates.
During the late-spring shoulder season, as the snow is still melting, some of the trails may not be completely dry. Nevertheless, in September and October, numerous trails remain accessible (unless there is an early snowfall), with temperatures hovering around 15°C in September and dropping to a refreshing 10°C in October. By October, the daylight hours diminish to approximately 10, so it is important to plan accordingly.
As temperatures increase, glaciers undergo movement and friction against the rock beneath them. This process generates fine particles known as silt, which are carried downstream and eventually settle in lakes, contributing to the stunning turquoise hue that has made the Rockies renowned. In the spring, the water in these lakes appears clear as there is not much silt present. However, as September approaches, traces of the vibrant color can still be observed, enhancing the beauty of autumn captures.
It becomes challenging to fully appreciate the picturesque view when many couples are busy taking selfies with the mountains in the backdrop. Opting for the low season ensures a higher chance of avoiding crowds while exploring, along with more affordable hotel prices due to increased vacancies. Moreover, you'll have the opportunity to easily dine at all the restaurants you've been longing to try.
During the autumn season, the sight of balsam firs showcasing their deep green color alongside the radiant yellow leaves of larch and poplar creates a breathtaking opportunity for photography. However, pictures can only capture a fraction of the mesmerizing experience of witnessing the cascading waves of vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows descending down the mountainside.
Experience a comfortable and serene journey with Canada Rail as you travel between Vancouver and Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper in Canada. The trains offer exclusive access to breathtaking areas that are not easily visible from the road, such as the majestic Pyramid Falls in Canada. Each train coach has been meticulously crafted to provide a luxurious ride, ensuring you are fully immersed in the awe-inspiring scenery.
The specially designed glass-dome coaches offer an unparalleled panoramic view of your surroundings, allowing you to appreciate the beauty from the comfort of your reclining chair. Our exceptional service, which has received numerous accolades, is made possible by our onboard Hosts.
Canada Rail ensure that all your needs are met, but they also share captivating stories and possess extensive knowledge about the region. Additionally, you will savor locally-inspired and locally sourced cuisine on the train, providing you with a taste of the culinary delights and culture of the areas you pass through.
Unlike sleeping on a train, which may not compare to the coziness of a hotel bed, we make nightly stops at stations. You will be conveniently shuttled to a comfortable hotel, where your luggage will be waiting for you. No more struggling with heavy suitcases on and off the train! Spend the evening in a charming mountain town or a historic frontier town, and enjoy a restful night's sleep in a spacious and plush bed. In the morning, the train will resume its journey, ensuring you never miss a single moment of the breathtaking scenery.
If you are interested in booking your first train passage, then fill out the form below and a vacation planner will send you a quote by email including the latest information on availability, pricing, and any applicable specials.
Mountainous, remote, culturally diverse, and immensely beautiful, Canada is an expansive and scenic country to visit and explore. With over 10 provinces, this North American country is a favourite destination for travellers of all ages. Canada has so much to offer that it’s worth fully exploring on its own. Perfect for ski adventures, scenic railway journeys, wildlife, and historical city exploration, it’s diverse in its terrain and culture. Canada is a comfortable and exciting destination to visit.
Vancouver
Island Vacations Tourism Information Guide that has been designed to
assist all visitors vacationing on this beautiful island of ours. We
would like you to experience an enjoyable vacation..
For the camping enthusiasts there are over twenty provisional campgrounds available and literally dozens of privately owned RV parks on the island. Vancouver Island offers something for every one on vacation. There are many outdoor experiences you will be able to enjoy, fishing, golfing, horse back riding, parks you can trail walk and of course grizzly and black bear tours just to name a few activities.
W
e have hundreds of various types of accommodations listed from Victoria to the top of the island Port Hardy and every city and town in between on both the east and west coasts to suit all budgets, tastes, needs and desires.
T
here are more than 50 golf courses for the avid golfer to experience. Most of these courses are set in the most beautiful surroundings near the sea, by lakes or surrounded by great mountain ranges in evergreen forests. Vancouver Island also can boast of having some of the best championship courses.
Guides who know the waters here well and are ready and committed to
serve you individually, ensuring a personalized and rewarding fishing
charter. You may be fortunate enough to land a halibut , now that would
be a vacation to remember. It is all here at our front door. Unbelievable fishing on Vancouver
Island for those seeking the finest saltwater fishing getaway.
Grizzly bear watching
is always a tourist attraction at Knight Inlet about 80 kilometers
north of Campbell River. During a vacation on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, be sure to
book a whale watching tour to see whales, eagles, dolphins and other
marine mammals.
Mt. Washington is only minutes away from the Comox Valley and offers world class skiing, snowboarding and Nordic sports. In the summer season Mount Washington is a hiking and mountain bike haven.
If you're looking for activities beyond alpine, all snowbound tastes are catered for. Mount Washington provides guests with one of the top-rated Nordic experiences in North America.
Get inspired by the province’s natural beauty and make plans for your next outdoor adventure,
by taking advantage of the many recreation
opportunities available across the diverse landscape of mountains,
rivers, lakes and coastlines. You will experience excitement and
adventure on either a
fishing, whale watching, bear watching or hunting trip. Vancouver Islands rugged wilderness, fresh lakes and rivers offering excellent opportunities for gaming and fishing enthusiasts.
Kayaking is a very popular sport as the island has many bays and inlets
with calm waters. Here is
The Ultimate
Beginner’s Guide to Kayaking
Vancouver Island offers a host of exceptional recreation opportunities. While some of the island’s most spectacular recreation features are located in parks, many more recreation resources are found in the rugged backcountry.
Alternatively, if you are planning a more relaxed type sailing holiday and intend to explore the shores, bays and
the hundreds of inlets
surrounding Vancouver island, then you can also look forward to sun tanning,
beach combing, waterfalls, beautiful anchorages, great scenery, swimming,
hiking, photography and the many species of wildlife.
There are over 18
marine parks in our area.
Desolation sound is extraordinarily beautiful sailing area with
many safe anchorages and beautiful locations… mountain waterfall and forest
lakes only minutes walk from snug anchorages. The waters are calm, sheltered and
warm. Desolation Sound is a world famous sailing destination or longer trips to
the many other marine parks like Princess Louisa, Toba Inlet, Bute
Inlet or the Broughton Archipelago.
