From the Rockies to the Pacific

This two-week trip lets you see the main highlights from Alberta and BC while doing so at a more relaxed pace compared to other itineraries. We find that the best way to see a destination is with two nights there to properly take everything in.

About This Trip

Travel one of the most beautiful, classic routes in Western Canada and take time to experience nature at its best. Starting in Calgary and ending in Vancouver, this itinerary offers a kaleidoscope of different travel experiences and activities. In Alberta, travel along the stunning Icefield Parkway from Banff to Jasper, one of the most spectacular scenic routes in the world. Be in awe of unparalleled mountain vistas with towering snow-capped mountains, sparkling glaciers, and emerald-blue lakes. Western Canada’s national parks are filled with wildlife and offer great opportunities to watch black bears and grizzly bear, moose, elk, mountain goats and bighorn sheep. In the coastal regions, you may see orca, humpback, and grey whales, seals, otters, along with the majestic bald eagles. A special highlight of this trip is a stay at Pacific Rim National Park where whales, waves, and the waters of the Pacific Ocean create a Westcoast feel like nowhere else.

Routing Map

Itinerary

Let the adventure begin! You have many transportation options for your trip, ranging from guided private transfers, driving on your own with a rental car, or sitting back as you accompany your group in a motorcoach. Whatever you choose, you can rest assured that Canadian Travel Partners will be there with you every step of the way.

After arrival at Calgary Airport, you travel to your downtown hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you have this day to explore Calgary, a city where contemporary meets historic western roots, and is filled with dynamic experiences and must-see attractions.

Distance: 130 km

We recommend taking a morning private city tour of Calgary with a local guide before you leave on your journey to the Rockies. Feel the energy of this dynamic city with a personal guide and learn the in’s and out’s of the city that makes it special. Some bookable highlights include the Calgary Tower, where you can enjoy an impressive view over Alberta’s Prairie, or Calgary’s Heritage Park, where the Old West comes back to Life. If you want to witness the magical and unique western cowboy atmosphere of the Calgary Stampede then make sure to book this trip while it takes place each year in July.

In the afternoon you begin your drive West with the incredible Rocky Mountains looming in the distance. As you near Banff, make sure to check out the Kananaskis region and the town of Canmore.

A full day to explore Banff and Yoho National Parks. Both parks are world-famous for their towering peaks, emerald lakes and wildlife including grizzly and black bears, moose and deer. Enjoy a walk in Johnston Canyon or take the Banff Gondola up to Sulphur Mountain for a spectacular view over the majestic Rockies. The turquoise-green Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park is also a special and very scenic sight to see.

Distance: 290 km

Today’s journey will undoubtedly count among the highlights of your trip as you travel along the spectacular Icefields Parkway.  First, drive to Lake Louise where the impressive Chateau Lake Louise sits against the backdrop of Victoria Glacier. Discover the picturesque Moraine Lake with its stunning mountain view of the Wenkchemna peaks.  Stop at Peyto Lake and at the Columbia Icefield to travel on the massive glacier and walk on the thousand-year old ice field. Here you have the option to go on the world famous Icefield Explorer as it takes you far up the glacier. At Athabasca Falls, take a short walk to view the magnificent falls, before reaching the small town of Jasper, scenically located in the heart of Jasper National Park.

Today, explore Jasper National Park with its many pristine wilderness areas. Take a scenic 90-minute boat cruise on Maligne Lake or enjoy a walk in the spectacular Maligne Canyon. Other options are a scenic drive to the Angel Glacier at Mount Edith Cavell with beautiful and easy hiking trails. Or enjoy an exciting river raft tour floating down the Athabasca River. If you are a hiking enthusiast and want to see some stunning views from above, then a trip up the Jasper Skytram to the top of the Whistlers Mountain might interest you as there are many trails and viewpoints to explore.

Distance: 320 km

Drive along the famous Yellowhead Highway with stunning views of 3953-metre high Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Stop at the Mt. Robson Visitor Center, an excellent spot for a short hike.  Entering British Columbia change your watch as you gain one hour. Clearwater, your overnight destination, is the gateway to the vast back country of Wells Gray Provincial Park, a pure wilderness area and a renowned destination for its breathtaking waterfalls, lakes, hiking and canoeing.

Feel the energizing power of an extra day of relaxation spent to explore Wells Gray Provincial Park. We recommend a truly iconic Canadian experience and suggest a canoeing tour, guided or on your own. Put on your hiking shoes and explore the nature rich trails, or visit ‎any of the 40 breathtaking water falls. Some of the most popular ones include Helmcken Falls and Spahats Falls, but there are so many more that you must see. Whatever you choose, nature will reward you!

Distance: 424 km

Forested slopes, deep blue lakes and towering mountains provide the backdrop of today’s journey as you climb slowly towards the famous ski resort of Whistler, home of the 2010 Winter Olympics. Walk through the charming pedestrian streets and enjoy the lively atmosphere that Whistler has to offer. If you arrive early enough, there are plenty of walking trails or hikes nearby. You can even go up the mountain and travel on the famous Peak2Peak gondola. For more adventure seekers, there is ziplining and mountain biking to give you an adrenaline rush.

Distance: 372 km

Today’s journey leads you to the Vancouver Island.

Leaving Whistler, travel south along the spectacular Sea-to-Sky Highway and take the ferry to Nanaimo on Vancouver Island enjoying a 90-minute ferry cruise through the spectacular marine and mountain scenery of the Gulf Islands.

Near Parksville, stop at Cathedral Grove for a short walk through an ancient rainforest with giant, towering, old-growth Douglas firs. The oldest trees are about 800 years old with tree-trunks the size of cars. Afterwards, traverse the Vancouver Island Mountain range to the West Coast for your two-day stay in Pacific Rim National Park.

Entering the park, be sure to stop at the Kwisitis Visitor Center at the south end of Wickaninnish Beach. Large timber logs, witnesses of the powerful winter storms, create a special atmosphere on the beaches.  The Visitor Centre is home to an impressive gallery telling the story of life on the West Coast.

Distance: 455 km

A stay in Tofino is a special experience that lets you capture the rugged wilderness of the Pacific coast like no other place. Take a deep breath and inhale the fresh misty air of the Pacific, feel the power of the ocean waves, explore the abundant rainforest trails and be amazed by the colourful tidal pools. Enjoy the many water activities from sea kayaking and surfing to whale watching tours. For an unforgettable adventure, try to catch your own salmon with a professional fishing guide.

Distance: 320 km

Today, continue your journey across Vancouver Island heading south to Victoria. Enroute, stop in Chemainus, the city of murals and marvel at the picturesque village walls. Upon arrival in Victoria, take a scenic walk along the Inner Harbour and feel the British charm and elegance of BC’s capital city.

Distance: 115 km

In the morning, you have the chance to visit the stunning Royal BC Museum located at the Inner Harbour. If you haven’t gone Whale Watching earlier in the trip, then here is your last best chance to see what marine life the Pacific Ocean has to offer. Enroute to the ferry terminal, discover the botanical beauty of the famous Butchart Gardens before taking a 90-minute BC Ferries cruise through the scenic Gulf Islands to Vancouver. The Pearl of the Pacific, how Vancouver is amicable called, welcomes you with its stunning mountain-ocean flair.

Vancouver is yours to explore. There are countless amazing activities to experience. We recommend starting with a guided city tour, either privately with a local guide or on a public hop-on hop-off tour. Stanley Park is a must see highlight with its magnificent totem poles, and spectacular city and ocean views. For a bit more of an adventure, rent bicycles or E-Bikes to truly live the Vancouver experience and pedal along the Vancouver’s famous seawall. Explore Canada Place and Gastown. No visit to Vancouver is complete without a visit to Granville Island. If you have more time, cross Lions Gate Bridge for a visit to the North Shore, and walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge or take a gondola up to visit Grouse Mountain for a unique view of the city from above. Vancouver has an abundance of delicious and unique restaurants to choose from, so treat yourself to a memorable night out. If you want to dine with spectacular views, then we can make reservations for you with a Sunset Dinner Cruise, or at the Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant.

Unfortunately, your trip has come to an end. Let us know how we can assist you in your travels back home. We thank you for trusting us to plan your vacation, and hope we get the chance to show you more of Canada again soon!

Optional Activities

Day 1

Private Transfer Service

You give us your flight details, and we make sure that you will be picked up or dropped off accordingly. This is a hassle free way to ensure that your trip starts and/or ends flawlessly and in comfort. 

Most often transfers are between Airports and Hotels, however we can arrange them for any destination.

Meet & Greet Services are also available where the Driver will wait for you at arrivals.

Please ask us about how we can arrange this service for you.

Day 2

Calgary Private City Tour

Discover the vibrant energy of Calgary on a 2-hour privately guided city tour that can be arranged as a walking tour or with private transportation.

See the many sights of the city and marvel at the 190-metre Calgary Tower, the Saddledome stadium or the tropical, glassed-in Devonian Gardens. Walk along 8th Avenue, Calgary’s premier shopping street and visit the Glenbow Museum, dedicated to Inuit and Indigenous art.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Calgary Heritage Park

Step back in time at the Calgary Heritage Park, Canada’s largest living history museum, where the Old West comes back to life. Costumed guides tell the history of Canada’s West. Enjoy the park’s many activities, including a train ride and a paddle-wheeler.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Calgary Stampede

Every year in July for ten days, Calgary plays host to the “Biggest Outdoor Show on Earth”. The famous Calgary Stampede is a world-renowned cowboy festival and a great way to experience and celebrate Western heritage and Indigenous culture. Watch cowboys show off their skills at the daily rodeo shows, attend a bull-riding event or watch the famous Chuckwagon race. Join the nightly Evening Grand Show and feel the Western spirit and hospitality of Calgarians come alive in a spectacular and unforgettable extravaganza.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Three Sisters Peaks Helicopter Tour

In Canmore, experience the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains on a panoramic helicopter flight over the mountain peaks of the Three Sisters. The flight leads over the Spray Valley with majestic views over the many turquoise lakes near the Bow River and the spectacular rugged vistas of the Rocky Mountains.

Duration: 20 minute flight

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Day 3

Banff Gondola

Take the Banff Gondola for a spectacular ride up to the top of 2,281-metre high Sulphur Mountain. From the observation deck you have a stunning 360 degree panoramic view of six scenic mountain ranges and the surrounding ice covered summit.

From new restaurants and interactive exhibits, to a multisensory theatre and a breathtaking 360-degree rooftop observation deck, the Banff Gondola is an experience simply not to be missed.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Horseback Ride and Cowboy BBQ Cookout

For a special experience, book the Cowboy Cook-Out Ride and enjoy a 3-hour ride in an authentic Chuckwagon or on horseback along the base of Sulphur Mountain and finish the trip off with a great Barbecue in true Western style.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Day 4

Ice Explorer Glacier Tour

Travel with the giant Ice Explorer onto the surface of the famous Athabasca Glacier for a chance to walk on the thousand-year old glacial ice and fill your water bottle with fresh glacier water. It’s the perfect time to capture the beauty of the icefield’s breathtaking mountain setting.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Day 5

Maligne Lake Cruise

Experience a 90-minute boat cruise on beautiful Maligne Lake with stunning views of Spirit Island, one of the most photographed locations in the Canadian Rockies. Maligne Lake is the largest glacially fed lake in the Canadian Rockies.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Jasper River Float Trip

For those wanting some fun on the water, then a float trip is the choice for you. 

With the Float Trip, enjoy a unique perspective of Jasper National Park aboard this peaceful river raft as it gently floats down the Athabasca River. The 2 ½ hour float trip follows the same route that was used by the fur traders over two centuries ago.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Jasper SkyTram

Take the SkyTram up to the top of Mt. Whistler and witness the breathtaking views that surround you. There are plenty of hiking trails and walks to choose from, with some that even lead to the highest peak.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Day 7

Canoeing in Wells Gray Provincial Park

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Day 8

Peak 2 Peak Gondola Whistler

The award-winning Peak 2 Peak Gondola spans the distance between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains and provides unparalleled perspectives of British Columbia’s year-round mountain paradise with stunning 360-degree views of Whistler Village and surrounding towering mountain peaks, coastal rainforests, ancient glaciers and crystal clear lakes. .

With 36 meters high and 4.4 kilometers long, the lift holds the world’s record as the longest free span between ropeway towers.

Riding the Peak2Peak Gondola is one of the most popular and iconic things to do in Whistler and lets you enjoy many alpine trails on both Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Whistler Ziplining

Fly like an eagle on this exhilarating zipline adventure soaring high above the trees and across the river valley between Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains.

Starting and ending in the heart of Whistler, this popular and safe tour lets you fly high on five different ziplines, including a 2400 ft zipline with a 30-storey descent. In between, you will cross a series of treetop suspension bridges and viewing platforms that connect the ziplines in the old-growth rainforest. Listen to your guide sharing stories of sustainability and the unique ecosystem surrounding Whistler. This tour is truly an experience you don’t want to miss!

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Day 10

Tofino Whale Watching

Season: April to October
Duration: 3 hours

Highlight your stay on the West Coast with an adventurous 3-hour whale watching tour by zodiac or covered boat in the pristine waters of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere.

A truly iconic experience, a whale watching tour reveals spectacular coastal scenery and lets you watch marine mammals like orca, humpback and grey whales, sea otters, and sea lions in their natural environment.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Tofino Bear Watching

Duration: 2.5 hours
Season: April to October
Transportation: Boat

Watching bears in the wilderness is always an awe-inspiring experience and exploring British Columbia’s spectacular coastal shorelines for sights of black bears is a rewarding experience you don’t want to miss.

Departing Tofino on the West Coast on Vancouver Island, this quieter 2 1/2-hour bear watching tour by boat lets you explore the calmer inlets and sheltered bays of the Clayoquot Sound from the comfort and safety of a 24” zodiac vessel. Observe coastal black bears that are often spotted during low tide as they come out of the rainforest in search of food and forage for crabs, clams and barnacles.  Besides black bears, you will likely spot other animals like seals, sea otters, bald eagles and enjoy an unforgettable coastal journey.

Tofino Guided Sea Kayaking

Paddle on the Wild Side and experience a guided kayaking excursion on the Pacific Coast.

On this fully guided 2 1/2-hour or 4-hour kayaking tour, discover the many marvels of Clayoquot Sound. Paddle through the protected waters of Tofino harbour and nearby inlets where rainforest, beaches and tidal flats surround you. Learn about rainforest ecology and local history and watch out for eagles and migratory birds.

On the longer tour, you even stop at Meares Island for a walk on the ‘Big Tree Trail’ before paddling back to Tofino’s scenic harbour.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Tofino Hot Springs

Enjoy an energetic tour on this day excursion to Hot Springs Cove, a natural hot spring located at the remote north end of the Clayoquot Sound. First, travel by covered boat through the pristine waters of the Clayoquot Sound and marvel at spectacular coastal scenery and marine wildlife. Upon arrival at the dock, enjoy an easy 2-km hike on a wooded boardwalk through the magical rainforest. Take a relaxing soak in the natural sulphur hot springs, before returning back to Tofino.

The Hot Springs can also be visited by air with a Float Plane. If flying there is more your style, then we can arrange that for you as well!

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Fishing Charter from Tofino

Enjoy the thrill of catching your own salmon or halibut on a private fishing charter adventure where you go deep sea fishing with your a professional guide on a chartered boat. A simply unforgettable adventure!

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Day 12

Royal BC Museum

This fascinating museum located at Victoria’s Inner Harbour is dedicated to the cultural and natural history of British Columbia as well as to the Indigenous cultures of the Pacific Northwest. Impressively designed galleries and exhibits include replicas of a Goldrush town, a Cowboy town and a coal mine and give a lively impression into the past of British Columbia.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Butchart Gardens

The world-famous Butchart Gardens located just outside Victoria in Brentwood Bay are a botanical paradise of beautifully designed gardens. Built from a former stone quarry more than a 100 years ago, the impressive 22 ha (55 acres) gardens delight visitors year-round and have been designated as a National Historic Site of Canada. Several theme gardens include the graceful Sunken Garden, the peaceful Japanese garden, the fragrant Rose Garden, just to name a few and will mesmerize visitors with a kaleidoscope of colours and millions of blossoms. A visit to Butchart Gardens is an absolute Must as you visit Victoria and will provide an enchanting experience for all senses.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Victoria Whale Watching

Season: April to October
Duration: 3 hours

This adventurous 3-hour whale watching tour through the waters of Vancouver Island’s marine ecosystem is a spectacular adventure tour that will take you through some of the most breathtaking marine scenery British Columbia has to offer. The most commonly seen whales include Orcas, Humpbacks, Minkes, and sometimes Gray whales.

Tours depart from Victoria’s Inner Harbour and are available by speedy zodiac or by covered boat that provide spacious comfort, a heated cabin with washroom and viewing decks outside and inside with plenty of seating.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Day 13

Vancouver Guided City Tour

Experience Vancouver on a private 4-hour city tour enjoyed in the comfort of a sedan, SUV or sprinter van vehicle with your own private (multi-language) guide. Feel the fascination of cosmopolitan Vancouver and experience places such as English Bay, Stanley Park, Granville Island, Yaletown, Gastown, Chinatown, Robson Street, and Queen Elizabeth Gardens.    Enjoy Stanley Park with its picturesque totem poles, Canada Place with stunning views of the Northshore mountains, visit the historic Gastown or the trendy Yaletown, and stop for a stroll or a culinary experience on Granville Island’s Public Market or take a drive along the beaches of Vancouver’s Kitsilano area.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Vancouver Classic Panorama Flight

The most popular aerial seaplane tour of the city and north Shore Mountains. This ideal introduction to seaplane aviation departs from downtown Vancouver’s Coal Harbour and includes a complete aerial view of the city and surrounding parks and beaches.

Duration: 30 minutes total with 20 minutes flight time

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Grouse Mountain

Enjoy a memorable gondola ride up to Grouse Mountain for a spectacular view over Vancouver, the Burrard Inlet and the Northshore. Grouse Mountain with its peak of 1,200 metres, offers a variety of outdoor adventures, hiking trails, and a wildlife refuge with two Grizzly Bears, Coola and Grinder.

Summer activities also include a zipline adventure, lumberjack shows, a birds of prey wildlife demonstration, a scenic chairlift ride, and the 2.9 km (1.8 mi.) steep hiking trail known as the Grouse Grind.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Capilano Suspension Bridge

Visit Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where you can cross the rushing waters of the Capilano River while on a 135-metre long suspension bridge. Enjoy stunning views of the canyon below and forest all around you. Feel the excitement as you walk along the Cliff Walk or across the lush rainforest Treetop Adventure. Learn about indigenous culture and marvel at the hand crafted totem poles throughout the park. Capilano Suspension Bridge Park has something for everyone and for all ages to enjoy.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Vancouver Sunset Dinner Cruise

Take in the sights of the city on this 2.5-hour leisurely paddle wheeler dinner cruise and marvel at Vancouver’s stunning skyline, the Canada Place cruise ship terminal, the mountains of the North Shore, Stanley Park and much more. Enjoy a delicious West Coast-themed dinner with live musical entertainment – it’s simply the best spot in Vancouver to watch the sun disappear into the Pacific Ocean.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Top Of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant

Take in the most stunning panoramic views of Vancouver and enjoy an award-winning fine dining experience at Vancouver’s legendary Top of Vancouver Revolving Restaurant. Situated atop the iconic Vancouver Lookout tower at 170 metres high above the city, the revolving restaurant is the perfect place to celebrate any occasion and enjoy a delicious West Coast–inspired dinner with breathtaking views of Vancouver, the Coast Mountains and the Pacific ocean.

Ask us about how to add this on to your trip, and how Canadian Travel Partners can save you time and money when handling your bookings.

Day 14

Private Transfer Service

You give us your flight details, and we make sure that you will be picked up or dropped off accordingly. This is a hassle free way to ensure that your trip starts and/or ends flawlessly and in comfort. 

Most often transfers are between Airports and Hotels, however we can arrange them for any destination.

Meet & Greet Services are also available where the Driver will wait for you at arrivals.

Please ask us about how we can arrange this service for you.

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