Canadian Rockies by Rail

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as you settle into your downtown hotel. Perhaps explore Vancouver’s picturesque waterfront before meeting your Tour Manager and fellow quilt-lovers at the evening Welcome Meeting. Share your excitement with your new travel companions as the journey begins. Make sure to try some of the local seafood for dinner—Vancouver is famous for its fresh catch.

After a hearty breakfast, embark on a panoramic city tour of Vancouver with a local guide. Visit Stanley Park and learn the history of this Victorian landmark.  At Granville Island, enjoy browsing bolts of high-quality quilting cottons at The Cloth Shop, or handspun yarns at Maiwa. Savor  gourmet food and marvel at colorful produce in Granville Public Market. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure in Vancouver. Be  sure to rest up for an exciting day on the rails tomorrow. Perhaps catch a sunset from English Bay for a relaxing end to your day.

A grand welcome greets you as you board the Rocky Mountaineer for travel from Vancouver to Kamloops, in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. Witness dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the Interior, through winding river canyons and pristine forests, to the Coast and Cascade Mountains and the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley. See the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River and the rushing waters of Hells Gate in the Fraser Canyon. Enjoy gourmet breakfast and lunch onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the comfort of your glass-domed railcar seat. Spend the evening exploring the local art scene in Kamloops, known for its vibrant arts and culture or relax in your downtown hotel.

Board the Rocky Mountaineer train at the Kamloops Station to continue your journey east to the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. Travel across ranchlands, along rocky lakeshores, over high mountain passes, and through the remarkable tunnels that form part of the rich rail history of the Canadian Rockies. Highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the climb over Rogers Pass, the Kicking Horse Canyon, the Spiral Tunnels, and the glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Your evening arrival into Banff allows time for dinner on your own or enjoying a walk along the Bow River after checking into our lodge-inspired mountain hotel.

Relish a day of pure relaxation in the serene mountain ambiance of Banff. Take full advantage of the laid-back atmosphere and allow yourself to sleep in and fully unwind. Explore the charming shops and boutiques in the downtown area, immersing yourself in the local culture at a leisurely pace. With a variety of cozy cafés and inviting restaurants, treat yourself to a casual lunch or a cozy fireside dinner, savoring the delicious flavors of the region. Let the magnificent snowy peaks of the Canadian Rockies captivate you while providing a stunning backdrop for your day of leisure in Banff. For those interested in wildlife, be on the lookout for elks that often roam around the town.

Embark on a captivating motorcoach adventure that will take you through the awe-inspiring wonders of Banff National Park. Prepare to be amazed as you ascend to the summit with a thrilling ride on the Banff Gondola, treating your eyes to breathtaking panoramic views. Explore the iconic Bow Falls, make a stop at the picturesque Surprise Corner, and marvel at the unique rock formations known as the Hoodoos. Make sure to snap some photographs of the stunning scenery for keepsakes of this unforgettable trip. Following a relaxed lunch of your choosing, sit back and unwind as we continue our journey to the cosmopolitan city of Calgary.

Set out on a delightful adventure as we delve into the world of quilts and fabrics in Calgary. Immerse yourself in a carefully curated quilt shop hop, visiting handpicked, locally owned boutiques that specialize in all things quilting. Discover the wonders of Out of Hand Quilting, Rick Rack  Textiles, and Along Came Quilting, where you’ll be greeted by a treasure trove of the latest fabrics, patterns, notions, books, and more, perfect for enhancing your current project. Tonight, gather for our customary Farewell Dinner, a joyful gathering to celebrate the memorable journey we’ve shared together. Before dinner, stroll along the beautiful Bow River pathway for a final taste of the natural beauty of Alberta.

After a satisfying breakfast, exchange addresses with newfound friends and reminisce about the cherished memories created together. At your leisure, make your way to Calgary’s airport, signaling the start of your journey back home. As your journey concludes, remember to check out the stunning Calgary skyline one last time before you depart.