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Christmas in the Canadian Rockies Train Trip | Via Rail
From December 22, 2025 to December 22, 2025
Book by May 31 for 15% off this 2025/26 Winter Vacation
INTRODUCTION
This 7-day Christmas in the Canadian Rockies Winter Rail Vacation is everything you love about the holidays in one vacation! Stay at Canada's ‘Castle in the Rockies’, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, and enjoy a delicious Christmas feast prepared by the hotel chefs.
Embark on a guided Icewalk together through a frozen canyon, snowshoe through a sparkling landscape at Paint Pots, watch for wildlife like moose, elk and bighorn sheep and cozy up on a horse drawn sleigh ride.
The memories made on this holiday are sure to last through the ages.
Itinerary at a Glance
MAP

DETAILED ITINERARY
The below itinerary reflects our recommendations for this specific trip. This itinerary is also available in the reverse direction.
Departing Vancouver|Departing Calgary
Day 1 Vancouver to Jasper | Via Rail This afternoon, board VIA Rail’s ‘Canadian’ train for the famous rail journey to the majestic Canadian Rockies. Step back in time to the days of classic rail travel, riding in the original steel ‘streamliner’ railcars made famous by the ‘Canadian’ in the 1950s. Each car has been lovingly restored with air conditioning, a dining car, lounge car, and dome car. Pass through the rich fields of the Fraser Valley and the towering peaks of the Coastal Mountains before entering the Fraser Canyon. Follow the Thompson River through spectacular landscapes as you enjoy dinner (included), then retreat to your private quarters that have been converted into a bedroom.
Day 2 Jasper | Arrival VIA Rail Rise to the snowy peaks of the Canadian Rockies today as you arrive in Jasper and transfer to your hotel. The day is free to explore this unique alpine community. (Breakfast included today onboard VIA Rail)
Day 3 Jasper Freedom of Choice | 1 of 6 Excursions Personalize your stay in Jasper by choosing one of these excursions Option 1. Maligne Canyon Ice Walk Experience the wonders of Maligne Canyon from the ground up! The canyon has withstood 10,000 years of erosion and has created a 50 metre gorge. Option 2. Discover Jasper & its Wildlife Tour Travel through the Athabasca Valley to some of the park’s most beautiful Canadian Rocky Mountain scenery to seek out all the park’s most iconic creatures. Option 3. Jasper Dark Sky Planetarium & Telescope Experience Join LIVE astronomy guides for a full evening of cosmic exploration, starting inside with a world-exclusive domed theatre experience, then outside with the largest telescope in the Rockies. In the climate-controlled 40-seat dome theatre, take a LIVE virtual tour of Jasper’s 11,000 sq km Dark Sky Preserve. Option 4. Secrets of Jasper Snowshoe Tour Embark on an unforgettable winter adventure through breathtaking alpine landscapes. Trek across pristine snow-covered trails, surrounded by towering peaks and serene wilderness. Discover hidden gems, local wildlife, and fascinating stories while enjoying a guided experience that blends nature, history, and outdoor excitement in a magical winter wonderland. Option 5. Upgrade Option: Jasper Foodie Tour Show your foodie side some love on this walking food tour of Jasper. The mountain town has come a long way from it’s humble beginnings without losing sight of what makes it special. Option 6. Upgrade Option: Dog Sledding Tour Travel by dog sled along 22 km (13 mi) of pristine winter scenery in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Learn the history of the area and the people amongst the crisp mountain air and the beautiful scenery that surrounds you. Enjoy lunch cooked over an open campfire, hot apple cider, and homemade treats.
Day 4 Jasper | Christmas Day Today, celebrate the magic of Christmas at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, where the breathtaking Rocky Mountains provide a stunning winter wonderland. Enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with twinkling lights, crackling fireplaces, and the scent of fresh pine. Indulge in a decadent holiday feast crafted by our world-class chefs, featuring traditional favorites and gourmet delights. Gather with loved ones for heartwarming activities, from gingerbread decorating to cozy storytelling by the fire. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa in the grand lodge or taking in the serene beauty of Jasper’s snowy landscape, Christmas at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is truly unforgettable. (Christmas dinner is included this evening)
Day 5 Jasper to Banff | Coach Today, travel the spectacular Icefield Parkway and experience a breathtaking winter wonderland. Towering snow-capped peaks, frozen waterfalls, and vast glaciers create a mesmerizing landscape. Wildlife sightings, from elk to bighorn sheep, add to the adventure. Enjoy the serenity of this scenic route, where icy blue lakes and pristine forests make for unforgettable photo opportunities in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
Day 6 Banff | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 5 Excursions
Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of these excursions
Option 1. Discover Banff & Its Wildlife Tour + Gondola
Keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, and bighorn sheep on this morning tour of Banff. Scenic highlights include Fairmont Banff Springs, Bow Falls, Surprise Corner Lookout, the Hoodoos Viewpoint & Lake Minnewanka. Then soar up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola for 360-degree views over Banff.
Option 2. Snowshoeing at Paint Pots
Experience an unforgettable snowshoeing adventure to the historical Paint Pots with its ochre-colored mineral pools. This easy 3-kilometre trail offers a great introduction to snowshoeing for first-timers. Along the way, search for hare, lynx, and wolf tracks in the forest. Snowshoes, hiking poles, and authentic historical props are included. Warm up with hot chocolate and a uniquely Canadian maple taffy treat!
Option 3. Johnston Canyon Frozen Falls Adventure
Explore the icy wonderland of Johnston Canyon with expert guides fitting you with ice-walking gear. Marvel at the stunning Lower Falls, then venture to the Upper Falls, where ice climbers scale frozen towers. En route, discover hidden gems along the Bow Valley Parkway, stopping at exclusive viewpoints for breathtaking, camera-worthy scenery.
Option 4. Electric Fat Biking Banff Adventure
Experience the thrill of Winter Electric Fat Biking in Banff! Ride effortlessly through snow-covered trails with powerful e-fat bikes, soaking in breathtaking mountain views. Perfect for all skill levels, this guided adventure offers an exciting and eco-friendly way to explore Banff’s winter wonderland.
Option 5. Upgrade Option: Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon
Experience the magic of winter with a breathtaking excursion to Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon. Marvel at the frozen turquoise waters of Lake Louise, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, before exploring the stunning ice formations and waterfalls of Johnston Canyon. This unforgettable adventure offers spectacular scenery, crisp mountain air, and the chance to witness nature’s winter wonderland up close.
Day 7 Banff to Calgary | Coach Today you will leave behind the fresh mountain air and colourful sights of the Rockies. We will schedule a transfer to bring you to downtown Calgary, or to the Calgary Airport to connect with your flight home.
Day 1 Calgary to Banff | Coach Leave the Stampede City of Calgary on the express service to Banff, where you’ll arrive to a picturesque resort town surrounded by the Rocky Mountains. Located within Banff National Park, Banff is renown for its scenic natural beauty and stunning wildlife.
Day 2 Banff | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 5 Excursions
Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of these excursions
Option 1. Discover Banff & Its Wildlife Tour + Gondola
Keep your eyes peeled for deer, elk, and bighorn sheep on this morning tour of Banff. Scenic highlights include Fairmont Banff Springs, Bow Falls, Surprise Corner Lookout, the Hoodoos Viewpoint & Lake Minnewanka. Then soar up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola for 360-degree views over Banff.
Option 2. Snowshoeing at Paint Pots
Experience an unforgettable snowshoeing adventure to the historical Paint Pots with its ochre-colored mineral pools. This easy 3-kilometre trail offers a great introduction to snowshoeing for first-timers. Along the way, search for hare, lynx, and wolf tracks in the forest. Snowshoes, hiking poles, and authentic historical props are included. Warm up with hot chocolate and a uniquely Canadian maple taffy treat!
Option 3. Johnston Canyon Frozen Falls Adventure
Explore the icy wonderland of Johnston Canyon with expert guides fitting you with ice-walking gear. Marvel at the stunning Lower Falls, then venture to the Upper Falls, where ice climbers scale frozen towers. En route, discover hidden gems along the Bow Valley Parkway, stopping at exclusive viewpoints for breathtaking, camera-worthy scenery.
Option 4. Electric Fat Biking Banff Adventure
Experience the thrill of Winter Electric Fat Biking in Banff! Ride effortlessly through snow-covered trails with powerful e-fat bikes, soaking in breathtaking mountain views. Perfect for all skill levels, this guided adventure offers an exciting and eco-friendly way to explore Banff’s winter wonderland.
Option 5. Upgrade Option: Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon
Experience the magic of winter with a breathtaking excursion to Lake Louise and Johnston Canyon. Marvel at the frozen turquoise waters of Lake Louise, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, before exploring the stunning ice formations and waterfalls of Johnston Canyon. This unforgettable adventure offers spectacular scenery, crisp mountain air, and the chance to witness nature’s winter wonderland up close.
Day 3 Banff to Jasper | Coach Today, travel the spectacular Icefield Parkway and experience a breathtaking winter wonderland. Towering snow-capped peaks, frozen waterfalls, and vast glaciers create a mesmerizing landscape. Wildlife sightings, from elk to bighorn sheep, add to the adventure. Enjoy the serenity of this scenic route, where icy blue lakes and pristine forests make for unforgettable photo opportunities in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
Day 4 Jasper | Christmas Day Today, celebrate the magic of Christmas at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, where the breathtaking Rocky Mountains provide a stunning winter wonderland. Enjoy a festive atmosphere filled with twinkling lights, crackling fireplaces, and the scent of fresh pine. Indulge in a decadent holiday feast crafted by our world-class chefs, featuring traditional favorites and gourmet delights. Gather with loved ones for heartwarming activities, from gingerbread decorating to cozy storytelling by the fire. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa in the grand lodge or taking in the serene beauty of Jasper’s snowy landscape, Christmas at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is truly unforgettable. (Christmas dinner is included this evening)
Day 5 Jasper Freedom of Choice | 1 of 6 Excursions Personalize your stay in Jasper by choosing one of these excursions Option 1. Maligne Canyon Ice Walk Experience the wonders of Maligne Canyon from the ground up! The canyon has withstood 10,000 years of erosion and has created a 50 metre gorge. Option 2. Discover Jasper & its Wildlife Tour Travel through the Athabasca Valley to some of the park’s most beautiful Canadian Rocky Mountain scenery to seek out all the park’s most iconic creatures. Option 3. Jasper Dark Sky Planetarium & Telescope Experience Join LIVE astronomy guides for a full evening of cosmic exploration, starting inside with a world-exclusive domed theatre experience, then outside with the largest telescope in the Rockies. In the climate-controlled 40-seat dome theatre, take a LIVE virtual tour of Jasper’s 11,000 sq km Dark Sky Preserve. Option 4. Secrets of Jasper Snowshoe Tour Embark on an unforgettable winter adventure through breathtaking alpine landscapes. Trek across pristine snow-covered trails, surrounded by towering peaks and serene wilderness. Discover hidden gems, local wildlife, and fascinating stories while enjoying a guided experience that blends nature, history, and outdoor excitement in a magical winter wonderland. Option 5. Upgrade Option: Jasper Foodie Tour Show your foodie side some love on this walking food tour of Jasper. The mountain town has come a long way from it’s humble beginnings without losing sight of what makes it special. Option 6. Upgrade Option: Dog Sledding Tour Travel by dog sled along 22 km (13 mi) of pristine winter scenery in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Learn the history of the area and the people amongst the crisp mountain air and the beautiful scenery that surrounds you. Enjoy lunch cooked over an open campfire, hot apple cider, and homemade treats.
Day 6 Jasper to Vancouver | VIA Rail This morning, board VIA Rail’s ‘Canadian’ train for the journey from Jasper to Vancouver. Using the original steel railcars from the 1950s, sit back and relax in the dome car to enjoy a dramatic change in scenery as you travel the ‘Yellowhead’ route past the sprawling grandeur of Mount Robson. Watch the landscape transition from mountains to desert as you follow the Thompson River into central British Columbia. Brunch and dinner is included onboard VIA Rail, and your private quarters will once again be transformed into a bedroom for the overnight journey. (Lunch & Dinner included today)
Day 7 Vancouver Arrival | VIA Rail Waking to the coastal city of Vancouver today, your tour ends upon arrival. (Continental breakfast included today onboard VIA Rail)
INCLUDED
Package Includes:
- Sleeping berth onboard VIA Rail Sleeper Touring service for 1 night
- 3 nights accommodation in Jasper
- 2 nights accommodation in Banff
- Private transfer between rail depot and hotel in Jasper
- Transfer between rail depot and hotel in Jasper
- Jasper | Freedom of Choice 1 of 6 Excursions | Shared Small Group
- Maligne Canyon Ice Walk | Operates 15 Dec - 31 Mar
- Discover Jasper & Its Wildlife Tour
- Jasper Dark Sky Planetarium & Telescope Experience
- Secrets of Jasper Snowshoe Tour | Operates 01 Dec - 31 Mar
- Upgrade Option: Jasper Foodie Tour
- Upgrade Option: Dog Sledding Tour | Operates 01 Dec - 31 Mar
- Scheduled express coach between Jasper & Banff
- Banff | Freedom of Choice - 1 of 4 Excursions
- Banff Highlights & Wildlife Tour + Gondola
- Snowshoeing at Paint Pots Tour | Operates 01 Dec - 10 Apr
- Johnson Canyon Frozen Falls Adventure
- Electric Fat Biking Banff Adventure
- Scheduled express coach between Banff & Calgary
- Christmas Dinner on December 25th
- National Park fees
- Meals as per Itinerary
Hotel & Rail Information | Deluxe Grade
- VIA Rail | Private Cabin
- Jasper - Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Deluxe Room
- Banff - Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel | Deluxe Room
Hotel & Rail Information | Deluxe Plus Grade
- VIA Rail | Private Cabin
- Jasper - Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Junior Suite Lake View with Fireplace
- Banff - Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel | Deluxe Mountainview Room
Not Included
- Gratuities
- Activities other than specified
- Meals other than specified
- Portage fees
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Arrange a call with a Canada Train Travel Designer and bring your vacation one step closer!
Schedule a CallDATES & PRICING
Departing from Vancouver: Friday & Monday(Tour Code: TR168)Dec 22
Departing from Calgary: Monday(Tour Code: TR169)Dec 22
Date | Twin | Single | Triple | Child |
---|---|---|---|---|
Deluxe Grade with Private Cabin on-board VIA Rail | ||||
22 Dec 25 Upgrade available to Prestige Class onboard VIA Rail | Between Vancouver & Jasper 2025/ 2026 Winter Season Jasper | Freedom of Choice Upgrade Option Jasper Foodie Tour | Shared Small Group Dog Sledding Tour | Shared Small Group Tour with Private Transfer |
$4,382 $2,090 $62 $503 | $6,665 $2,958 $62 $804 | $3,738 $62 $402 | $1,763 $62 $137 |
Deluxe Upgrade Deluxe Grade with Private Cabin on-board VIA Rail | ||||
22 Dec 25 Upgrade available to Prestige Class onboard VIA Rail | Between Vancouver & Jasper 2025/ 2026 Winter Season Jasper | Freedom of Choice Upgrade Option Jasper Foodie Tour | Shared Small Group Dog Sledding Tour | Shared Small Group Tour with Private Transfer |
$4,516 $2,090 $62 $503 | $6,959 $2,958 $62 $804 | $3,818 $62 $402 | $1,735 $62 $137 |
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