Winter Nights and Dancing Lights

Arrive in Vancouver and enjoy a free day to explore this modern metropolis situated on the shores of the Pacific Coast. There is much to discover in the city, from museums and galleries to outdoor spaces, including Stanley Park and Grouse Mountain.

Spend the morning at leisure in Vancouver before boarding VIA Rail's 'Canadian' train in the afternoon for the overnight journey to Jasper. Enjoy watching the scenery go by from the comfort of your private cabin or comfortable berth, and enjoy the delicious cuisine in the dining car. (D)

Enjoy the spectacular winter scenery as your rail journey continues through the Monashee and Cariboo mountain ranges, before arriving in Jasper late this morning. (B)

Strap on some ice cleats and experience the wonders of Maligne Canyon on a guided Ice Walk excursion. Walk along the frozen canyon floor and alongside ice-clad limestone walls as you explore this wonderland of rock and ice.

Enjoy awe-inspiring scenery, from beautiful snow-capped mountains to forested valleys and glaciers, as you travel along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic highways in Canada, before arriving at Lake Louise, where you'll enjoy an evening sleigh ride beside the lake.

Depart Lake Louise mid-morning for a short drive along the scenic Bow Valley to Banff, where the rest of the day is at leisure to explore this mountain town.

Enjoy a free day to discover the winter wonders of Banff National Park. Options abound for activities to fill your day, from snowshoeing or snowmobiling, to wildlife tours, hot springs and scenic gondolas or just enjoying the village atmosphere at the local pubs, restaurants and bars.

Spend the morning exploring a bit more of Banff before leaving the Rocky Mountains behind. Transfer along the Trans-Canada Highway towards the Great Central Plains and Calgary. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure in Calgary before your onwards travels.

Fly from Calgary to Whitehorse, and transfer to your hotel. The afternoon is free to explore downtown Whitehorse. The historic paddlewater SS Klondike, the Log Cabin Skyscraper and the MacBride Museum of the Yukon are a number of sights you may wish to take in. This evening head away from the city lights, to the Aurora Centre, to seek out views of the Aurora Borealis.

Each day is free to enjoy optional sightseeing. Experience one of the many exciting winter activities on offer in the Yukon. You may wish to explore the winter landscapes, from frozen alpine lakes to snowy mountain ranges, on an exhilarating dogsledding or snowmobiling tour. For a more relaxing option, take a dip in the natural hot springs at Takhini Hot Springs and rejuvenate in the breathtaking winter mountain setting, or visit the Yukon Wildlife Preserve for close up views of local wildlife including elk, moose, caribou, mountain goats and bison. In the evenings, relax in sheltered comfort or under the starry sky beside a warm fire at the Aurora Centre, as you keep watch for the spectacular Aurora Borealis.

Today is another free day for optional activites, or for catching up on some sleep after a late night of Aurora viewing. Perhaps a flightseeing tour over the winter landscapes would appeal? Or check out the local brewery for a more relaxing day inside where it's warm. This evening is another chance to witness the Northern Lights light up the sky.

With memories of spectacular mountain scenery and sparkling night skies, your journey ends today with a transfer to the airport for your onward travels.