Focus Travel Club Presents
Canadian Rockies by Train, including the Calgary Stampede
12 Day Custom Tour Late June 2022
Two days on the famous Rocky Mountaineer Train from Vancouver to Jasper.
Marvel at the rugged beauty of the Canadian Rockies relaxing in your glass-dome car.
Estimated price from Denver, $9,995 per person, double occupancy
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Included Features
Highlights include:
Included Features
• Round trip airfare from Denver
• Expert Guides
• Air conditioned, high quality motor coach transportation
• Breakfast each day while on tour
• 8 Dinners & 4 Lunches
• Granville Island
• Butchart Gardens
• Rocky Mountaineer Train, GoldLeaf Service
• Maligne Canyon
• Icefields Parkway
• Overnight at the famous Chateau Lake Louise & Banff Springs Hotels
• Banff National Park
• Gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain
• Calgary Stampede with reserved seating
Highlights include:
Included Features
• Round trip airfare from Denver
• Expert Guides
• Air conditioned, high quality motor coach transportation
• Breakfast each day while on tour
• 8 Dinners & 4 Lunches
• Granville Island
• Butchart Gardens
• Rocky Mountaineer Train, GoldLeaf Service
• Maligne Canyon
• Icefields Parkway
• Overnight at the famous Chateau Lake Louise & Banff Springs Hotels
• Banff National Park
• Gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain
• Calgary Stampede with reserved seating
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Day 1: Fly from Denver to Vancouver, Canada (D)
Welcome to Vancouver, one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Surrounded by coastal mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver welcomes guests with unparalleled beauty. On arrival our guide will meet us at the airport and we will transfer to our downtown accommodation. Tonight we’ll get acquainted at a 3 course welcome dinner at Chambar, a chic exposed-brick space serving creative Belgian cuisine & sustainable seafood, plus beer & wine.
Overnight: Sheraton Wall Centre or similar
Day 2: Vancouver (B,L)
A city tour of Vancouver begins this morning at beautiful Stanley Park, Canada’s renowned urban rainforest. Then, continue to the waterfront, and Gastown, a turn-of-thecentury center comprised of pubs, art galleries, boutiques and the world-famous steam-powered clock, perhaps the most photographed subject in all of Vancouver.
This afternoon we’ll stroll picturesque Granville Island. Noisy and chaotic, yet irresistibly atmospheric, Granville Island is Canada’s second most-visited destination, behind Niagara Falls. This is Vancouver’s destination for lovers of food, art and culture. Offering fresh, local, seasonal produce, alongside a slice of local life, this is where guests rub elbows with Vancouver's chefs as they shop for the day’s menu. During our market tasting tour, we will savour a cornucopia of fine foods from independent farmers and food artisans throughout Vancouver and nearby farms, from cheeses to locally-made charcuterie, candied salmon to melt-in-your-mouth donuts. Touring the Granville Island Public Market is one of the most authentic ways to experience Vancouver — after all, what better way to feel the pulse of the city than to immerse yourself in the action?
After our tour we have the rest of the day to spend at our leisure.
Overnight Sheraton Wall Centre or similar
Day 3: Victoria (B,D)
Today, a scenic ferry crossing transports us to Vancouver Island to visit the incomparable and lovely Butchart Gardens. Set on over 55 acres, Butchart Gardens are among the world's most beautiful and are a veritable explosion of color and fragrances. Next we’ll enjoy a short sightseeing tour of Victoria, the "City of Gardens," followed by leisure time to explore this charming, seaside city.
This evening we will enjoy elegant ocean-view dining on the ferry back to Vancouver. The Pacific Buffet features a wide selection internationally inspired entrees, a salad bar, and a decadent dessert bar all paired with
an unforgettable ocean view.
Overnight Sheraton Wall Centre or similar
DAY 4: Vancouver – Kamloops on board Rocky Mountaineer (B,L)
Travel to the railway station for an early-morning send-off onboard Rocky Mountaineer, GoldLeaf Service. Indulge your senses with gourmet meals prepared by Executive Chefs, and expansive views through the panoramic windows of a bi-level glass dome coach to the Canadian Rockies. Witness dramatic changes in scenery from the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley, through forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains, to British Columbia’s desert-like interior. One highlight of this leg of our trip is Hell’s Gate – rushing waters squeezing through an abrupt narrowing of the mighty Fraser River. In 1808, the explorer Simon Fraser described this whitewater chute as “a place where no human being should venture.” Our train rolls on to another highlight – and it’s quite a contrast: the landscape of steep slopes, rock sheds, and arid bluffs along the Thompson River. At the end of the day, Rocky Mountaineer glides along the shores of Kamloops Lake into Kamloops.
Overnight: Kamloops
DAY 5: Kamloops – Jasper on board Rocky Mountaineer (B,L,D)
Our journey onboard Rocky Mountaineer continues to the
breathtaking Canadian Rockies in Alberta. Prepare to be
surrounded by dramatic scenery as our train follows the North Thompson River through the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains, climbing ever nearer to the high peaks of the Continental Divide. Take in Mount Robson, at 12,972 feet (3,954 m.) the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. See Pyramid Falls and climb over Yellowhead Pass. Our rail trip ends as we arrive in the town of Jasper, the wildest of the mountain parks. On arrival we’ll transfer to our hotel where we’ll enjoy dinner tonight.
Overnight: Sawbridge Inn and Conference Center or similar
DAY 6: Jasper (B, D)
This morning we travel to Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. We’ll sail 14 kilometres along Maligne Lake, past towering peaks & glaciers, to the peaceful and remarkable Spirit Island. Sit back, relax and enjoy
vibrant stories from the onboard tour guide, including the history of the lake and its earliest explorers, along with the geology, glaciology, flora & fauna of the area. Upon arrival at Spirit Island, the boat docks and guests are able to disembark and enjoy a short nature trail leading to a viewing platform
for that bucket list photo overlooking Spirit Island. Next we’ll visit Maligne Canyon, the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park, with a depth of more than 50 metres at certain points. Walkers of all abilities can explore this incredible natural landmark by crossing six bridges built across various points of the canyon. For those looking for a gentle walk, head over the First and Second bridges. This evening we’ll enjoy another lovely
dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Sawbridge Inn
DAY 7: Jasper – Lake Louise (B,D)
Travelling through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, we drive along the famous Icefields Parkway which has been voted one of the most spectacular drives in the world. You will see for yourself why this mountain road that boasts a unique landscape rich in history and natural beauty second to none is so famous. Make sure to keep watch for wandering elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and bears. We see the powerful Athabasca Falls before arriving at the famous Columbia Icefields whose waters feed three oceans, we visit the Interpretive Centre then have the experience of a lifetime – a ride on the Ice Explorer vehicle for a close up look at the Athabasca Glacier.
We continue our journey to the charming town of Lake Louise, a jewel of the Rockies surrounded by glistening glaciers and towering mountain peaks. Our final destination today is Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, set on the lake within Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll enjoy dinner at the Chateau tonight and stay in a lake-view room. Set your alarm to be sureto catch the sunrise from your window tomorrow morning!
Overnight: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
DAY 8: Lake Louise – Banff (B,D)
After enjoying the Lake Louise scenery this morning at leisure, we’ll make our way to Banff. En route, view the spectacular Moraine Lake and the awe-inspiring Valley of the Ten Peaks. The jagged Ten Peaks are distinctively saw-toothed, standing out amidst stunning alpine scenery. We arrive in Banff, set in the heart of Banff National Park and snugly embrace d by Alberta's Rocky Mountains, the little town of Banff boasts a big, worldwide reputation. Its charming streets are abuzz year-round, and this famous mountain resort town catersaccordingly with world-class shopping and dining. We’ll check in to our accommodation, the grand Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” for a luxurious 2-night stay. We’ll visit the hotel restaurant for dinner tonight.
Overnight Fairmont Banff Springs
DAY 9: Banff (B,L)
Today we’ll take a tour through the towering mountains of
Rundle, Tunnel, Cascade, and Norquay and learn about the natural attractions of the wind-shaped hoodoos. Be aware of the Surprise Corner along Tunnel Mountain Drive! Experience a gentle ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain taking 8 minutes in a four-person fully enclosed gondola. A spectacular view and picture taking opportunity wait at the top of this 360 degree panorama of the Bow Valley. Learn all about how these majestic mountains have shaped this unique community. This incredible setting is where we’ll enjoy our lunch. The remainder of our day is spent at leisure in Banff, with a chance to explore more of the unique shops and restaurants.
Overnight Fairmont Banff Springs or similar
Day 10: Banff – Calgary (B,D)
Today we make our way through the foothills of the Rocky Mountains to Calgary, the largest city in the western Canadian province of Alberta. On arrival, we embark on a sightseeing tour of Calgary. We’ll learn about the landmarks and public spaces that make Calgary an interesting blend of the old west and vibrant and fast growing new urban center. Enjoy the diverse stories that provide an entertaining view of the city that was once known as “rail town”, “sandstone city”, and finally “oil town”. Highlights of this tour range from viewing the urban center and what makes Calgary an interesting place, to the history that formed our city.
This evening we’ll head out to enjoy the world famous Calgary Stampede. We’ll start by having dinner at The Clubhouse which features a rustic and globally inspired buffet and à la carte selections. After dinner we’ll head to our reserved seats as the Calgary Stampede presents the world’s most unique doubleheader, the Evening Show, featuring the GMC Rangeland Derby and the Bell Grandstand Show. As the sun sets, the GMC Rangeland Derby thunders around the track with 36 chuckwagons vying more than $1 million in prize money. Witness all the heart-pounding action, an experience like nothing else. When the last wagon thunders across the finish line, prepare yourself for the Bell Grandstand Show: a variety extravaganza that includes comedy, elaborate
song and dance numbers, acrobatics and a spectacular fireworks finale.
Overnight: Hotel Arts or similar
Day 11: Calgary and Southern Alberta (B, D)
After breakfast, head south to the famous Bar U RanchNational Historic Site where you can discover the life of a ranching cowboy from the late 1800s. The Bar U Ranch has the largest collection of historical ranch buildings in Canada.
A further 145 km. drive south takes us to the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site that preserves and interprets over 6,000 years of Plains Buffalo Indigenous culture. Through vast landscapes, exhibits, and diverse programming, you will learn from a Blackfoot Nations guide about the cultural significance of this cliff to the Plains Indigenous People. From the Interpretive Centre, venture out along a paved trail that leads you to spectacular views of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Cliff, Calderwood Buffalo Jump & Vision Quest Hill to the north, the great prairies to the east, and the Rocky Mountains to the south.
We’ll head back to Calgary to enjoy our last evening with our fellow travellers at our farewell dinner at Vero Bistro Moderne, a Sleek, colourful eatery serving Italian & French fare made with
thoughtfully sourced ingredients. We’ll experience a range of flavours with the chef’s 4 course tasting menu.
Overnight: Hotel Arts or similar
Day 12: Depart Calgary (B)
After breakfast, we’ll transfer to Calgary International Airport to begin the journey home.
Welcome to Vancouver, one of the most culturally diverse cities in the world. Surrounded by coastal mountains and the Pacific Ocean, Vancouver welcomes guests with unparalleled beauty. On arrival our guide will meet us at the airport and we will transfer to our downtown accommodation. Tonight we’ll get acquainted at a 3 course welcome dinner at Chambar, a chic exposed-brick space serving creative Belgian cuisine & sustainable seafood, plus beer & wine.
Overnight: Sheraton Wall Centre or similar
Day 2: Vancouver (B,L)
A city tour of Vancouver begins this morning at beautiful Stanley Park, Canada’s renowned urban rainforest. Then, continue to the waterfront, and Gastown, a turn-of-thecentury center comprised of pubs, art galleries, boutiques and the world-famous steam-powered clock, perhaps the most photographed subject in all of Vancouver.
This afternoon we’ll stroll picturesque Granville Island. Noisy and chaotic, yet irresistibly atmospheric, Granville Island is Canada’s second most-visited destination, behind Niagara Falls. This is Vancouver’s destination for lovers of food, art and culture. Offering fresh, local, seasonal produce, alongside a slice of local life, this is where guests rub elbows with Vancouver's chefs as they shop for the day’s menu. During our market tasting tour, we will savour a cornucopia of fine foods from independent farmers and food artisans throughout Vancouver and nearby farms, from cheeses to locally-made charcuterie, candied salmon to melt-in-your-mouth donuts. Touring the Granville Island Public Market is one of the most authentic ways to experience Vancouver — after all, what better way to feel the pulse of the city than to immerse yourself in the action?
After our tour we have the rest of the day to spend at our leisure.
Overnight Sheraton Wall Centre or similar
Day 3: Victoria (B,D)
Today, a scenic ferry crossing transports us to Vancouver Island to visit the incomparable and lovely Butchart Gardens. Set on over 55 acres, Butchart Gardens are among the world's most beautiful and are a veritable explosion of color and fragrances. Next we’ll enjoy a short sightseeing tour of Victoria, the "City of Gardens," followed by leisure time to explore this charming, seaside city.
This evening we will enjoy elegant ocean-view dining on the ferry back to Vancouver. The Pacific Buffet features a wide selection internationally inspired entrees, a salad bar, and a decadent dessert bar all paired with
an unforgettable ocean view.
Overnight Sheraton Wall Centre or similar
DAY 4: Vancouver – Kamloops on board Rocky Mountaineer (B,L)
Travel to the railway station for an early-morning send-off onboard Rocky Mountaineer, GoldLeaf Service. Indulge your senses with gourmet meals prepared by Executive Chefs, and expansive views through the panoramic windows of a bi-level glass dome coach to the Canadian Rockies. Witness dramatic changes in scenery from the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley, through forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains, to British Columbia’s desert-like interior. One highlight of this leg of our trip is Hell’s Gate – rushing waters squeezing through an abrupt narrowing of the mighty Fraser River. In 1808, the explorer Simon Fraser described this whitewater chute as “a place where no human being should venture.” Our train rolls on to another highlight – and it’s quite a contrast: the landscape of steep slopes, rock sheds, and arid bluffs along the Thompson River. At the end of the day, Rocky Mountaineer glides along the shores of Kamloops Lake into Kamloops.
Overnight: Kamloops
DAY 5: Kamloops – Jasper on board Rocky Mountaineer (B,L,D)
Our journey onboard Rocky Mountaineer continues to the
breathtaking Canadian Rockies in Alberta. Prepare to be
surrounded by dramatic scenery as our train follows the North Thompson River through the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains, climbing ever nearer to the high peaks of the Continental Divide. Take in Mount Robson, at 12,972 feet (3,954 m.) the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. See Pyramid Falls and climb over Yellowhead Pass. Our rail trip ends as we arrive in the town of Jasper, the wildest of the mountain parks. On arrival we’ll transfer to our hotel where we’ll enjoy dinner tonight.
Overnight: Sawbridge Inn and Conference Center or similar
DAY 6: Jasper (B, D)
This morning we travel to Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. We’ll sail 14 kilometres along Maligne Lake, past towering peaks & glaciers, to the peaceful and remarkable Spirit Island. Sit back, relax and enjoy
vibrant stories from the onboard tour guide, including the history of the lake and its earliest explorers, along with the geology, glaciology, flora & fauna of the area. Upon arrival at Spirit Island, the boat docks and guests are able to disembark and enjoy a short nature trail leading to a viewing platform
for that bucket list photo overlooking Spirit Island. Next we’ll visit Maligne Canyon, the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park, with a depth of more than 50 metres at certain points. Walkers of all abilities can explore this incredible natural landmark by crossing six bridges built across various points of the canyon. For those looking for a gentle walk, head over the First and Second bridges. This evening we’ll enjoy another lovely
dinner at the hotel.
Overnight: Sawbridge Inn
DAY 7: Jasper – Lake Louise (B,D)
Travelling through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, we drive along the famous Icefields Parkway which has been voted one of the most spectacular drives in the world. You will see for yourself why this mountain road that boasts a unique landscape rich in history and natural beauty second to none is so famous. Make sure to keep watch for wandering elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and bears. We see the powerful Athabasca Falls before arriving at the famous Columbia Icefields whose waters feed three oceans, we visit the Interpretive Centre then have the experience of a lifetime – a ride on the Ice Explorer vehicle for a close up look at the Athabasca Glacier.
We continue our journey to the charming town of Lake Louise, a jewel of the Rockies surrounded by glistening glaciers and towering mountain peaks. Our final destination today is Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, set on the lake within Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll enjoy dinner at the Chateau tonight and stay in a lake-view room. Set your alarm to be sureto catch the sunrise from your window tomorrow morning!
Overnight: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
DAY 8: Lake Louise – Banff (B,D)
After enjoying the Lake Louise scenery this morning at leisure, we’ll make our way to Banff. En route, view the spectacular Moraine Lake and the awe-inspiring Valley of the Ten Peaks. The jagged Ten Peaks are distinctively saw-toothed, standing out amidst stunning alpine scenery. We arrive in Banff, set in the heart of Banff National Park and snugly embrace d by Alberta's Rocky Mountains, the little town of Banff boasts a big, worldwide reputation. Its charming streets are abuzz year-round, and this famous mountain resort town catersaccordingly with world-class shopping and dining. We’ll check in to our accommodation, the grand Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” for a luxurious 2-night stay. We’ll visit the hotel restaurant for dinner tonight.
Overnight Fairmont Banff Springs
DAY 9: Banff (B,L)
Today we’ll take a tour through the towering mountains of
Rundle, Tunnel, Cascade, and Norquay and learn about the natural attractions of the wind-shaped hoodoos. Be aware of the Surprise Corner along Tunnel Mountain Drive! Experience a gentle ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain taking 8 minutes in a four-person fully enclosed gondola. A spectacular view and picture taking opportunity wait at the top of this 360 degree panorama of the Bow Valley. Learn all about how these majestic mountains have shaped this unique community. This incredible setting is where we’ll enjoy our lunch. The remainder of our day is spent at leisure in Banff, with a chance to explore more of the unique shops and restaurants.
Overnight Fairmont Banff Springs or similar
Day 10: Banff – Calgary (B,D)
Today we make our way through the foothills of the Rocky Mountains to Calgary, the largest city in the western Canadian province of Alberta. On arrival, we embark on a sightseeing tour of Calgary. We’ll learn about the landmarks and public spaces that make Calgary an interesting blend of the old west and vibrant and fast growing new urban center. Enjoy the diverse stories that provide an entertaining view of the city that was once known as “rail town”, “sandstone city”, and finally “oil town”. Highlights of this tour range from viewing the urban center and what makes Calgary an interesting place, to the history that formed our city.
This evening we’ll head out to enjoy the world famous Calgary Stampede. We’ll start by having dinner at The Clubhouse which features a rustic and globally inspired buffet and à la carte selections. After dinner we’ll head to our reserved seats as the Calgary Stampede presents the world’s most unique doubleheader, the Evening Show, featuring the GMC Rangeland Derby and the Bell Grandstand Show. As the sun sets, the GMC Rangeland Derby thunders around the track with 36 chuckwagons vying more than $1 million in prize money. Witness all the heart-pounding action, an experience like nothing else. When the last wagon thunders across the finish line, prepare yourself for the Bell Grandstand Show: a variety extravaganza that includes comedy, elaborate
song and dance numbers, acrobatics and a spectacular fireworks finale.
Overnight: Hotel Arts or similar
Day 11: Calgary and Southern Alberta (B, D)
After breakfast, head south to the famous Bar U RanchNational Historic Site where you can discover the life of a ranching cowboy from the late 1800s. The Bar U Ranch has the largest collection of historical ranch buildings in Canada.
A further 145 km. drive south takes us to the Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Interpretive Centre, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site that preserves and interprets over 6,000 years of Plains Buffalo Indigenous culture. Through vast landscapes, exhibits, and diverse programming, you will learn from a Blackfoot Nations guide about the cultural significance of this cliff to the Plains Indigenous People. From the Interpretive Centre, venture out along a paved trail that leads you to spectacular views of Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump Cliff, Calderwood Buffalo Jump & Vision Quest Hill to the north, the great prairies to the east, and the Rocky Mountains to the south.
We’ll head back to Calgary to enjoy our last evening with our fellow travellers at our farewell dinner at Vero Bistro Moderne, a Sleek, colourful eatery serving Italian & French fare made with
thoughtfully sourced ingredients. We’ll experience a range of flavours with the chef’s 4 course tasting menu.
Overnight: Hotel Arts or similar
Day 12: Depart Calgary (B)
After breakfast, we’ll transfer to Calgary International Airport to begin the journey home.