6 Day VIA rail from Vancouver to Jasper Banff Icefield Bus Tour

Planning a trip through the Canadian Rockies can be overwhelming with so many stunning sights and activities. This 6-day tour offers a well-rounded experience of some of the region’s most famous spots, combining train travel, self-exploration, and guided bus tours. While it isn’t cheap, at around $1,800 per person, it promises a mix of comfort, convenience, and awe-inspiring scenery.

What we like most about this tour is how it blends the leisurely pace of a VIA Rail journey with the excitement of exploring iconic parks like Banff and Jasper. Plus, the chance to stand on a glacier at the Columbia Icefields or ride the Banff Gondola for panoramic views makes for unforgettable moments.

A potential consideration is the tour’s scheduled activities—some may feel a little rushed, especially if you prefer more time at each stop. Also, the price covers most major highlights, but meals and optional extras like the Skywalk aren’t included, so budget accordingly.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love outdoor scenery, don’t mind a bit of a group atmosphere, and want a balanced experience of travel, sightseeing, and self-guided exploration. If you’re after a hassle-free way to see the Rockies with knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas, this trip could be just right.

Key Points

• Beautiful Scenery: The tour’s stops feature some of the most photogenic spots in the Rockies, including Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Peyto Lake.
• Comfortable Transportation: Traveling on the VIA Rail train and a modern coach means you’ll enjoy the journey as much as the destinations.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable bilingual guides enhance the experience with insights into natural and local history.
• Iconic Attractions: Highlights like the Banff Gondola, Columbia Icefields, and Bow Falls are included, ensuring you see the best.
• Self-Exploration Time: Ample free time at Jasper and Banff allows for independent discovery or optional upgrades.
• Value for Money: While the tour is pricey, it bundles transportation, guided tours, and entry fees, offering good value compared to booking separately.

Starting the Journey: Vancouver to Jasper by VIA Rail

The adventure begins at Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station, a convenient and lively hub for travelers. The VIA Rail train offers a comfortable, scenic 19-hour ride which is often praised for its amenities like Wi-Fi and washrooms. While long, this part of the trip sets the tone, with views of the coast giving way to mountain vistas.

Traveling by train in Canada isn’t just about getting from point A to B—it becomes part of the experience. Passengers tell us that the expansive windows and relaxed atmosphere make the long journey more enjoyable. The affordability of this mode also means you’re saving on internal flights or driving, allowing you to focus your budget on the highlights ahead.

Jasper Arrival and Self-Exploration

Arriving in Jasper around 11 am, your first taste of the Rockies is a charming mountain town. You’ll check into your hotel, then have the afternoon free for self-guided exploration. Whether you choose to stroll downtown, visit local shops, or relax, this is your chance to acclimate and plan your next steps.

For those wanting more, an optional Jasper Sky Tram upgrade is available, offering an elevated view of the surrounding peaks. This flexibility helps cater to different activity levels and interests.

Day 3: From Jasper to Banff—A Scenic Transit

The highlight of the morning is the transfer from Jasper to Banff, with a shuttle leaving around 1:20 pm. On the way, you’ll pass through some of the most impressive mountain scenery in the world, giving you plenty of time to absorb the sweeping landscapes.

You’ll have the opportunity to explore Jasper’s town at your own pace or add the Sky Tram experience, which many reviews praise for its stunning vantage point. The journey is relaxed, and the guides are helpful in pointing out notable landmarks along the route.

Day 4: Iconic Lakes and Natural Wonders

This day is packed with some of the most spectacular sights in the Rockies. Starting with Moraine Lake—famous for its striking blue waters and the dramatic backdrop of the Valley of the Ten Peaks—you’ll want your camera ready. The tour includes a one-hour stop here (June 1 to Oct 14), perfect for photos and soaking in the scenery.

If visiting outside that season, the itinerary switches to Marble Canyon, a natural marvel carved by Tokumm Creek. Both spots offer jaw-dropping scenery, but Moraine Lake’s vivid color and mountain backdrop are often highlighted as a highlight.

Next up is Lake Louise, with its iconic Fairmont Chateau and the Victoria Glacier. This is a busy spot, but the scenery remains breathtaking. You’ll have a chance for lunch here at your own expense, giving you flexibility to choose between cuisine options and enjoy the mountain views.

The day continues with Emerald Lake, known for its vibrant green waters, and the Natural Bridge, a limestone arch formed over thousands of years by the Kicking Horse River. These stops are short but memorable, giving you a taste of the region’s diverse geological features.

Day 5: Exploring Banff’s Highlights

Today focuses on Banff itself, with some of its most famous sights. The Banff Gondola ride takes you up Sulphur Mountain in just 8 minutes, offering panoramic views of six mountain ranges. The gondola experience is often called a must-do, and while the ticket isn’t included in the tour, it’s worth the extra fee for the vistas.

Relaxing at the Banff Upper Hot Springs is another highlight, especially after a day of sightseeing. Soaking in mineral-rich waters surrounded by towering peaks is a classic Rockies experience, perfect for unwinding. The hot springs are not included in the tour price but can be a worthwhile indulgence.

Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, and Banff Avenue give you a taste of the town’s charm—lively streets, scenic viewpoints, and plenty of photo ops. The day wraps up with visits to Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka, both offering stunning reflections and mountain backdrops.

Johnston Canyon, with its waterfalls and hiking trails, provides an active element to the day. The canyon’s towering cliffs and lush greenery make it a favorite for nature lovers. The guided portion and free time make it suitable for different energy levels.

Day 6: The Icefields Parkway and the Columbia Icefields

The final day is a highlight for scenery lovers. Driving along the Icefields Parkway, known as one of the world’s most scenic routes, you’ll stop at Bow Lake, a peaceful spot overlooked by Crowfoot Mountain. The reflections and mountain views here are postcard perfect.

The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre is a major attraction—home to the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies. While the ticket isn’t included, the opportunity to stand on a glacier and learn about the natural history is a rare experience. The actual glacier walk is an optional addition that many travelers find worth the extra cost.

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk, perched 280 meters above the Sunwapta Valley, offers breathtaking views if you opt for this add-on. Peyto Lake, with its distinctive shape and vibrant color, caps off the day’s sightseeing with a brief walk.

Practical Aspects and Overall Value

Transportation on this tour is a strong point. The combination of the comfortable VIA Rail train and a modern coach means you’re traveling in style while taking in the scenery. The small group size (max 54 travelers) ensures more personalized attention from guides, who are bilingual in English and Chinese, adding a layer of accessibility for diverse groups.

The pace is balanced—enough to see the key sights without feeling rushed. The included entries to major attractions like Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, and Emerald Lake add value, though some experiences like the Skywalk and hot springs are optional extras.

Price-wise, at $1,800.55 per person, you’re paying for convenience, guided insights, and the chance to visit multiple locations without the hassle of planning transportation or accommodations. Many reviews emphasize the quality of guides and the stunning views, validating the cost.

A few travelers mention the day-long train ride at the start as long, but most agree it’s part of the adventure rather than a chore. Keep in mind, meals are not included, so budget for lunch and snacks.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive Rockies experience without the stress of independent planning. It’s perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy guided commentary, and prefer moderate walking and sightseeing. If you love photography, the stops are highly photogenic, and the guides’ insights add context to each scene.

However, it might not be suitable for travelers who want a highly flexible schedule or those who prefer private tours. The fixed itinerary means some may feel the pace is slightly brisk, especially if they wish more time at each locale.

The Sum Up

The 6 Day VIA Rail from Vancouver to Jasper Banff Icefield Bus Tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic travel, iconic sights, and cultural highlights. From the comfort of train carriages to the thrill of gondola rides and glacier walks, it packs in the essentials of the Canadian Rockies with professional guidance.

For those who want a stress-free, guided experience that captures the region’s top attractions, this tour provides excellent value. It’s particularly suited for first-timers or travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of detailed planning.

While it’s not the cheapest option, the convenience and quality of included sights make it worth considering for your Rockies adventure. Just be prepared for some busy days, and plan to add a few personal touches, like extra meals or optional excursions, to customize your experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, you’ll travel on an air-conditioned bus for all the guided parts, and the initial journey from Vancouver is via VIA Rail train.

Does the tour include meals?
Meals are not included, giving you the flexibility to choose where and what to eat during the stops.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 54 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal and manageable.

Can I add optional activities?
Yes, some attractions like the Jasper Sky Tram and Columbia Icefield Skywalk are available as add-ons at your own expense.

What should I bring?
Layers for changing weather, comfortable walking shoes, a camera, and some cash or cards for personal expenses or optional meals.

Is there free time at the stops?
Yes, most stops include free exploration time, allowing you to enjoy the scenery at your own pace or grab a quick snack.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; check with the provider if traveling with very young children or those with mobility issues.

What is the best season for this tour?
From June 1 to October 14, Moraine Lake is open; outside those dates, the itinerary switches to alternative stops like Marble Canyon.

How far in advance should I book?
Confirmation is received within 48 hours, but booking early is recommended especially during peak seasons to secure your spot and preferred dates.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a Rockies newcomer, this tour offers a memorable and well-organized way to see the best of Canada’s mountain crown.