great canadian rail adventure

Ride Amtrak's Cascade train number 516 departing Seattle at 8:30am and arriving Vancouver at 12:30pm. After clearing Canadian customs and immigration we visit the Vancouver downtown area where you can get lunch if you like or just explore. We then visit the old Canadian Pacific Railroad Station. Here you will have two options to choose from. Ride the West Coast Express train out to Mission City and return on our bus to Vancouver for hotel check-in. The other option is to go directly to the hotel located in downtown Vancouver and check-in. Our hotel is the 4 star Best Western Premier Chateau Granville.  Dinner is on your own with many restaurants close to our hotel to choose from.

Special option available

Join and depart from the tour in Canada. Join the tour in Vancouver instead of Seattle and on the last day of the tour our guide will escort you from Victoria, BC back to Vancouver, BC on the BC Ferry this option includes highway transportation from Victoria to the Ferry on Vancouver Island, BC Ferry ticket, and highway transportation from the Ferry to downtown Vancouver.

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Our tour begins in Seattle where we catch the northbound
Amtrak Cascade headed for Vancouver, British Columbia

Departing the hotel at 9:00am we will go north of Vancouver for 40 miles to the town of Squamish to visit the Railway Museum of British Columbia. This museum is located on 12 acres and is home to the famous Royal Hudson steam locomotive and houses the largest collection of railway rolling stock and engines in Western Canada. Besides the Royal Hudson this museum has both Canadian National and Canadian Pacific F units, a Pacific Great Eastern Alco RS 3, Canadian Pacific Alco S 3, a Pacific Great Eastern Baldwin 2-6-2ST and a former British Columbia Railway RDC Budd rail car. We plan to take a ride on the former BCR RDC Budd rail car.

🍽 lunch, dinner

The Royal Hudson at the Railway Museum of
British Columbia

Pacific Great Eastern Railway 2-6-2ST

Pacific Great Eastern Railway Alco RS 3

Canadian Pacific F7A at Squamish

Canadian National F7A at the Railway Museum
Of British Columbia

Canadian Pacific Alco S3

British Columbia Railway Caboose at Squimish

One of last operating Budd RDC railcars former
British Columbia Railway BC-21. We will take a
ride on this railcar.

After our museum visit then we will head back south towards North Vancouver first making a stop to view Shannon Falls then near-by is the Britannia Mine Museum. This was a functioning mine from 1904 until 1974. Ore was first discovered here in 1888 and at one point, more than 60,000 people lived nearby and worked in what was once the largest copper mine in the former British Empire. Over seven decades, workers extracted more than 50 million tons of ore that produced copper, zinc, lead, cadmium, silver, and gold. This mine tour will take us underground for a short distance.

The Britannia Mine Museum just south of Squmish,
British Columbia

The Britannia Mine Museum
just south of Squmish,
British Columbia

The Britannia Mine Museum just south of Squmish,
British Columbia

Returning to Vancouver we go directly to our hotel to relax and freshen up for our Welcome to Canada Dinner. We will take you on a luxurious dinner cruise this evening. We will cruise through Vancouver’s scenic harbor and Burrard Inlet as the sun sets on the Pacific Ocean. Relax and admire glowing views of the city skyline including Canada Place and the West Vancouver Shoreline, set against the dramatic backdrop of North Shore Mountains. We will then visit the dinner buffet and sample a variety of regional dishes from fresh salads and sides to British Columbia salmon and beef bordelaise. As you eat, admire striking views, enjoy local live music, and visit and get to know your new travel friends.

Views of the Vancouver skyline from our dinner cruise

We depart the hotel at 9:00am for the short walk to the Sky Train Expo Line station through downtown Vancouver and all the way to Surrey. Here we transfer by highway to the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway for a visit. Enjoy a guided shop tour of the Interurban barn, ride a "Velocipede" and a restored BC Electric Interurban Car then take a ride on a set of maintenance Speeders' down the track. 

🍽 lunch

The Vancouver Skytrain

Here we transfer by highway to the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway for a visit. Next we go by highway to the near-by Burnaby Central Railway. This is a unique 1/8 scale, ride-on miniature railway built and operated by the volunteers of the BC Society of Model Engineers. The trains pull multiple cars carrying 20 or more passengers on a 2.5-mile, outdoor ride through the woods, with bridges, tunnels, crossovers, and spirals. Mid-afternoon we return to our hotel in downtown Vancouver and  Rest of the evening at your own leisure. 3rd night at the Best Western Premier Chateau Granville Hotel.

We take a ride on the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway. Then another ride on the
Burnaby Central Railway. This is a 1/8 scale miniature railway.

Fraser Valley Heritage Railway.

Burnaby Central Railway.

Burnaby Central Railway.

Burnaby Central Railway.

After check-out we board our charter motocoach at 9:00am. Our motorcoach will take us on a circle tour of Stanley Park including stops at Lumberman's Arch and Prospect Point gift shops and Lookout! We continue through downtown Vancouver along Beach Avenue with a stop at the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Center to view Canada's acclaimed Canadian Pacific Railway 4-4-0 locomotive No. 374 inside the Roundhouse. We will have an early lunch at 11:30am at Queen Elizabeth Park at the Season In The Park Restaurant, overlooking Vancouver City.  After lunch we take a walking tour of the ex-Volcano and it's Queen Elizabeth "Quarry Garden" within the Volcano interior with a stop at the Bloedel 'Domed' Conservatory.

We then depart for the Central Station Depot as a very special transcontinenal passenger train is waiting for us called “The Canadian” operated by Via Rail Canada.  Train boarding begins at 2:30pm and departs Vancouver at 3:00pm. Our group is in first class sleepers and once you get all settled into your private cabin the first call for dinner in the Dining Car is at 5:00pm.   Join your tour guide in the Dome car for "Appies and a Mimosa Cocktail" as we roll Eastbound towards the Fraser and Thompson River Canyons. With June being the longest days of sunlight we will enjoy the scenic views of both canyons since sunset is roughly 9:00pm and darkness at 9:30pm.

🍽 lunch, dinner

The Canadian East of Vancouver and close to the
Fraser River Canyon

Sunrise is shortly after 5:00am and we will be near Blue River, BC. If we are running on-time No. 2 will depart from Blue River at 5:11am. After departing here the Canadian Rockies comes into view. Head up into the dome car and enjoy the spectacular show that will unwind as we continue our journey deeper into the Rockies. Breakfast begins at 6:30am and ends at 9:30am. Coffee, muffins, juices and fruit will be available at 6:00am for anyone who wants something prior to breakfast in the dining car.  We will be assigned to one of two dining cars upon boarding the Canadian in Vancouver.  We will also be offered a choice of meal times. As we roll eastbound watch for Bears, Moose, Elk, Deer, Beavers and Muskrats in the rivers and creeks.  Lots of wildlife today!! The Canadian will arrive into Jasper, Alberta at 11:00am (Mountain Time) .

🍽 breakfast

Those who get up out of bed in the early morning will
enjoy the spectacular scenery as the Canadian enters
the Rocky Mountains

At Jasper we transfer from the train to our charter motorcoach and then we will head south on the famous Ice Field Parkway headed deeper into the Canadian Rockies. We will make several photo stops on the parkway at spectacular locations. Towards the end of the day we travel east of Jasper to the town of Hinton for check-in at the 3 star Velora Hinton Hotel. Dinner at your own leisure at the hotels restaurant.

The spectacular scenery of the Canadian Rockies on the Icefield Parkway
south of Jasper, Alberta (next four photos)

After breakfast we will load up our charter motorcoach and depart for our westbound trip back to Jasper making some photo stops at scenic locations in the Canadian Rockies. We plan to arrive back in Jasper by 9:45am. This will give you an hour to explore some of Jasper before we depart onboard the Skeena passenger train.

Via Rail train No. 5 the Skeena starts pre boarding at 10:15am with departure at 10:45am. Once onboard you will want to go right to the Park Dome Car on the tail end of the train. There is no dining car on this train but there are plenty of snacks and even a lunch box available plus beverages, both non alcoholic and alcoholic in the lounge below the dome.

As the Skeena heads westbound out of Jasper we will retrace our route that we took on The Canadian for the first 69 miles until we reach the junction with the Prince George line. We continue to follow the Fraser River for the next 184 miles all the way to Prince George. Our train will cross over the river on three large bridges as the tracks twist and turn through the dense forests and along the shores of several lakes following the Cariboo Mountains. The tracks cross over many other smaller rivers during today's journey. Finally we arrive in Prince George at 5:08pm.  After departing from the train station we will first visit the Central BC Railway and Forestry Museum.  Included in this museum's collection is one of the British Columbia Railway's GM built electric engines that pulled coal trains on the Tumbler River Line.  Also a former Canadian National GE 70 ton switcher,  a former British Columbia Railway Montreal Locomotive Works (Alco)  RS 10, a Canadian National F unit, a CN 4-6-0 steam locomotive and a variety of smaller diesels and rolling stock.  After our museum we transfer to the 3 star Prestige Prince George Lodge for check-in. Our train will park for the night at the station.

🍽 breakfast

Via Rail's popular Skeena passenger train between Jasper and Prince George

Via Rail's popular Skeena passenger train

The Central BC Railway And Forestry Museum
At Prince George

The Central BC Railway And Forestry Museum At Prince George

Rise and shine for another spectacular train day on the westbound Skeena. After breakfast we return to the train station and reboard our train to continue our westbound journey. Our train departs at 8:00am. As our train snakes out of town we follow the Nechako River to Fort Fraser, a distance of 95 miles. Then after following the shores of Fraser Lake for several miles we come to Burns Lake, then Decker Lake, next Rose Lake, and Bulkley Lake and finally following the Bulkley River. The tracks will cross over this river 12 times during the next couple of hours. At Hazelton the Bulkley River empties into the Skeena River and the tracks follow this river all the way to Prince Rupert. We arrive at 8:25pm. We transfer to the 3 Star Pacific Inn hotel and relax for the evening.

🍽 breakfast

Today we will explore Prince Rupert and take in the many interesting attractions. First thing in the morning the railfans and rail photographers in our group are welcome to come with us for a short distance east of Prince Rupert and set-up our cameras trackside at a scenic location to photograph Via Rail Canada's eastbound Skeena. This is the same train that we arrived into town on Thursday. This Skeena departs Prince Rupert at 8:00am.

We then will return to our hotel and pick-up the rest of the group and go on a Prince Rupert town tour to see and photograph some of the points of interest. This will include the excellent Museum of Northern British Columbia which depicts the 10,000 year settlement history of the north coast of Canada. This museum includes a fine collection of native and pioneer artifacts. Also the historic Kwinitsa Station Railway Museum is near-by. This is one of only three remaining Grand Trunk Pacific Railway stations in existence.

🍽 breakfast

Beautiful Prince Rupert And The Harbor - next 3 photos

After a lunch break we travel to near-by Port Edward and visit the historic North Pacific Cannery Museum. North Pacific Canning Company was formed on November 28, 1888. In 1889, the trustees received a crown grant for 183 acres of land at a cost of $32 and the plant was constructed. It had almost 90 years continuous salmon production and fish processing until ending in the late 1970s. In 1891, the company accounted for more than one quarter of British Columbia’s total salmon pack, and was the foremost packer of sockeye salmon in the world.

ABC Packers owned and operated North Pacific Cannery until 1968, when the company was folded and its assets sold off. The history of NPC is also unique because of its almost continuous ownership by a single firm for over 76 years. North Pacific was purchased by Canfisco of Vancouver BC in 1968. The Site continued to operate, not as a cannery but as a maintenance and reduction facility for the fishing fleet in Prince Rupert until 1981, when it closed for fishing operations. The year 1985 saw a group of local historians band together and ultimately save the site from demolition, paving the way for the museum it is today.

Trains were a major form of transportation in the North Coast, connecting communities and canneries, moving employees to the site and product to market from 1914. There is a model train collection which took up to 50 years to build and is the largest layout in the region.

The North Pacific Cannery Museum At Port Edward

After our tour of the North Pacific Cannery Museum we return to out hotel in Prince Rupert and the rest of the afternoon and evening at your own leisure to explore this interesting coastal town.

Canadian National Has A Large Container Yard At Prince Rupert

Early morning transfer to the BC Ferry Terminal. We must be at the terminal by 6:30am as the ferry departs at 7:30am. Everyone will have their own cabins so you can lay back down once onboard. After we set sail then you can go to the restaurant and enjoy a meal if you like. The M.V. Northern Expedition is scheduled for our cruise of 326 miles to Port Hardy. This is the newest vessel in the BC Ferry fleet and measures 492 feet and can accommodate 130 vehicles and 600 passengers. The Northern Expedition offers 55 modern staterooms and an expanded range of food services. Our entire voyage through the Inside Passage is incredibly scenic with views of mountains, ocean, islands, and tons of wildlife such as whales, seals and eagles. You will enjoy the magnificent glacial fjords of the inside passage. Arrival in Port Hardy is scheduled for 11:50pm. Transfer to the 3 Star Hotel Kwa'lilas

🍽 breakfast

Onboard The M.V. Northern Expedition Prince Rupert
To Port Hardy - next photo

We Enjoy A 17 Hour Cruise Down The Inside Passage
To Vancouver Island

We See Spectacular Scenery Cruising The
Inside Passage - next photo

After breakfast we board our charter motorcoach and depart Port Hardy and head south through remote Northern Vancouver Island to Parksville. We will be passing through lush forests, lakes and mountains of Vancouver Island. We will make a stop at Woss Camp where we will see the remains of the Englewood Logging Railway which was owned by Canadian Forest Products. This railroad was the last logging line in North America to operate. The railway workshops and operations was based in Woss Camp. The last day of operations was November 7, 2017. We will stop for a picnic lunch near the town of Courtnay. After lunch we continue to Port Alberni.

In Port Alberni we will visit the Alberni Pacific Railway which runs along the Port Alberni waterfront towards the papermill and the McLean Mill Historic Site. We will also take a tour of the railway roundhouse and railyards where a variety of steam and diesel engines are maintained. We will see steam locomotive No. 7, a Baldwin 2-8-2T, No. 2 a Lima Shay, and a unique Alco diesel which once pulled logs for the Crown Zellerback Railroad on the island. Excursion trains will be operating and we will jump onboard for a ride. Chances are good that steam will be in operation today. We then return to the eastern side of Vancouver Island to Parksville and hotel check-in at the 3 Star Bayside Oceanfront Resort which is right on the beach.

🍽 lunch

In Port Alberni we will take a ride on the Alberni Pacific Railway and tour their workshops
which includes a Lima built Shay and a Baldwin 2-8-2T plus their very unique Alco switcher

Wild, Beautiful, And Breathtaking Vancouver Island

The Alberni Pacific Railway -
next 2 photos

After breakfast we check-out of our hotel and depart at around 8:00am and head south to near-by historic Ladysmith. We will visit the old Ladysmith Esquimalt & Nanaimo Railway Depot. The E & N had 140 miles of track on the island and passenger service was suspended in 2011.

We continue southbound to Duncan and enjoy over 20 Totem Poles on display. Next we pay a visit to the BC Forest Discovery Center. Trains are operating today around their 100 acre museum and logging displays including the large Somenos Lake Trestle. They have an impressive collection of railroad logging locomotives and equipment. After our train ride we will visit the railroad workshops. Their collection includes No. 1 a 42 ton Lima Shay, 2nd No. 1 a 28 ton Lima Shay, No. 3 a 50 ton Lima Shay, No. 2 a 25 ton Climax, No. 9 a 50 ton 2 truck Climax, No. 25 a 18 ton 0-4-0T Vulcan, No. 24 a 12 ton 0-4-0T by Vulcan, No. 23 a 8 ton Plymouth, No. 26 a 10 ton Plymouth, and finally No. 22 a 8 ton Plymouth. Quite an impressive collection of motive power.

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Steam Locomotives At The Bc Forest Discovery Center

Finally it is time to continue south into Victoria located on the southen end of Vancouver Island. Victoria is the charming capital city of British Columbia, Canada. This is one of the most picturesque cities on the Pacific Coast. Hosting the mildest climate in Canada, this fair weather city has many things to do year-round within walking distance of the downtown area, which straddles the Victoria harbor. One of the oldest cities in the northwest, Victoria has many charming brick buildings, colorful gardens and fantastic culinary experiences from all over the world. Being on the coast, seafood is both prevalent and incredibly fresh. The harbor-front walkway hosts local artists and draws crowds to watch the talented street entertainers perform during the afternoon and evening. Nighttime casts a magical glow as the water and walkway are lit up by the 3,300+ lightbulbs that adorn the Parliament buildings . Check-in at the 3 Star Huntingdon Hotel. The rest of the afternoon and evening at your own leisure to explore colorful Victoria.

The Parliament Building In Victoria

After breakfast at our hotel we have a nice leisure start to our day departing the hotel at 10:00am and first visiting Heritage Acres. This museum will take you back in time to life on Vancouver Island many years ago. Of interest to most of our group is the outdoor live steam railroad called the Victoria & Sidney Railway. We will take a ride on their layout with either a steam or diesel powered train.

Next we visit famous Butchart Gardens National Historic Site of Canada which is an internationally-known public attraction that has been open to visitors since 1904. It is located on the Saanich Peninsula. The gardens provide dramatic floral displays in a variety of garden settings and styles set against a backdrop of mature trees and shrubs and linked together by a network of paths and transition areas. You can get lunch at one of the restaurants at the gardens.

After our visit to the Butchart Gardens we will make a stop to visit the near-by BC Aviation Museum where the famous Hawaii Mars bomber has just been added to the displays. Only five of these airplanes were built and they served the US Navy during World War II entering service on January 23, 1944 and ferrying cargo to Hawaii and the Pacific Islands. The Hawaii Mars made her final flight on August 11, 2024 with Its arrival at Patricia Bay near Victoria.

Mid afternoon we return to our hotel in Victoria and the rest of the afternoon at your own leisure exploring downtown and fisherman's wharf area. In the evening we will host our “Farewell to Canada Dinner” 2nd night at the 3 Star Huntingdon Hotel.

🍽 breakfast, dinner

We visit the World famous Butchart Gardens
National Historic Site of Canada

We visit the World famous Butchart Gardens
National Historic Site of Canada

The Hawaii Mars sits in Patricia Bay near
Victoria prior to being moved to the
near-by BC Aviation Museum

You can sleep in this morning if you like as we have a very leisure day. After breakfast and hotel check-out you can explore downtown Victoria.  There is a lot to see and do.  We need to check-in at the Victoria Clipper Terminal at 4:30pm for the 5:00pm sailing for Seattle. Depart Victoria at 5:00pm and arrive Seattle at  7:45pm. Upon arrival in Seattle end of our tour.

note

For those tour members that joined in Vancouver, BC our guide will escort you back to Vancouver, BC to your starting point. This option includes all highway transfers and the BC Ferry ticket.

🍽 breakfast

We visit the Parliament buildings on our
Victoria city tour

We visit China Town on our Victoria City tour

It is time to say good-bye to Canada as we take the Victoria Clipper to Seattle

Individual arrivals into Vancouver, British Columbia. You have the option to arrive in Canada either by plane or train. Amtrak has two daily passenger trains that operate from Seattle, Washington to Vancouver, British Columbia. Once you clear immigration and customs you can transfer to our hotel in downtown Vancouver for check-in. Arriving by train or plane you have the option to ride Vancouver's light rail SkyTrain from either the airport or the train station to downtown if you choose. There is a SkyTrain station just a short distance from our hotel. Our hotel is the 4 star Best Western Premier Chateau Granville Hotel.  Dinner is on your own with many restaurants close to our hotel to choose from.

Vancouver is a bustling, world-class seaport on Canada's west coast. Renowned for its stunning natural beauty, the city seamlessly blends a modern, dense steel-and-glass skyline with majestic ocean inlets and snow-capped mountains. It is a vibrant hub of diverse cultures, outdoor recreation, and economic activity. Located in the Lower Mainland, Vancouver is nestled between the Pacific Ocean (via the Strait of Georgia and Burrard Inlet) to the north and west, and the Fraser River to the south. The towering Coast Mountains are visible from almost anywhere in the city, providing an awe-inspiring backdrop. This city features a relatively mild coastal climate and summers are warm and dry.

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Beautiful Vancouver, British Columbia

We have an early departure from our hotel in downtown Vancouver for the short bus transfer to the Tsawwassen Terminal to catch the morning BC Ferry for Vancouver Island. You can get breakfast either at the hotel or on the ferry. We will arrive at Swartz Bay on the island and visit near-by the BC Aviation Museum where the famous Hawaii Mars Bomber has just been added to the displays. Only five of these airplanes were built and they served the US Navy during World War II entering service on January 23, 1944 and ferrying cargo to Hawaii and the Pacific Islands. The Hawaii Mars made her final flight on August 11, 2024 with its arrival at Patricia Bay near Victoria.

🍽 dinner

Video of The BC Aviation Museum

Next visit the famous Butchart Gardens National Historic Site of Canada which is an internationally-known public attraction that has been open to visitors since 1904. It is located on the Saanich Peninsula on Vancouver Island. The gardens provide dramatic floral displays in a variety of garden settings and styles set against a backdrop of mature trees and shrubs and linked together by a network of paths and transition areas. You can get lunch at one of the restaurants at the gardens.

We visit the World famous Butchart Gardens
National Historic Site of Canada

Video of Butchart Gardens

Finally we enjoy a visit to Heritage Acres. This museum will take you back in time to life on Vancouver Island many years ago. Of interest to most of our group is the outdoor 7.5 inch gauge railroad called the Victoria & Sidney Railway. We will take a ride on their layout with either a steam or diesel powered train.

Heritage Acres is a 29-acre living history park and outdoor museum operated by the Saanich Historical Artifacts Society. It features historic buildings, antique farm equipment, and vintage steam engines including the miniature railway. You can explore a collection of relocated and restored heritage buildings—including a chapel and schoolhouse—that show what farming and rural life on Vancouver Island were like in the early 1900s. Discover over 20,000 artifacts across 8,000 square feet of indoor display space, featuring antique vehicles, carriages, and functioning steam engines and of course model trains.

The Victoria & Sidney Railway At Heritage Acres

Viedo of The Victoria & Sidney Railway and Heritage Acres

After our visit to these three attractions we make our way towards Victoria, capital of British Columbia. As we approach this beautiful city we will take a scenic drive around Craigdarroch Castle then through Beacon Hill Park and along the colorful waterfront and ocean where the cruise ships dock. Once in Victoria we check-in at the 3 Star Huntingdon Hotel. In the evening we will host our “Welcome to Canada Dinner”.

Beautiful Victoria Capital of British Columbia

We depart our hotel after breakfast and travel north up Vancouver Island onboard our private charter coach making a stop in Duncan to enjoy the 20 Totem Poles on display around the town during our early lunch break.

🍽 breakfast

City Of Duncan Totem Poles

Video of The Totem Poles

Next we visit the vibrant town of Chemainus. This seaside town on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island. Famous as "The Little Town That Did," it reinvented itself from a struggling logging community into an international tourist destination. Today, it features over 50 massive outdoor murals. Often called the world's largest outdoor art gallery, the famous Wall Murals are painted across downtown buildings, vividly detailing the area's rich indigenous, logging, and pioneering history. While exploring the town you can get some lunch.

Some Of The Wonderful Murls in Chemainus -
next 4 photos

Next we visit the BC Forest Discovery Center. Trains pulled by steam or diesel are operating today around their 100 acre museum and logging displays including the large Somenos Lake Trestle are enjoyed by all. They have an impressive collection of railroad logging locomotives and equipment. After our train ride we will visit the railroad workshops. Their collection includes No. 1 a 42 ton Lima Shay, 2nd No. 1 a 28 ton Lima Shay, No. 3 a 50 ton Lima Shay, No. 2 a 25 ton Climax, No. 9 a 50 ton 2 truck Climax, No. 25 an 18 ton 0-4-0T Vulcan, No. 24 a 12 ton 0-4-0T by Vulcan, No. 23 an 8 ton Plymouth, No. 26 a 10 ton Plymouth, and finally No. 22 an 8 ton Plymouth. Quite an impressive collection of motive power.

The Workshops of the BC Forest Discovery Center
Railroad in Duncan

Video of the BC Forest Discovery Center

Departing from the BC Forest Discovery Center we travel to Nanaimo Harbor and if the timing is right we can watch and photograph the freight cars being unloaded from the rail ferry that comes from Tilbury Terminal located at Delta on the Canadian mainland. Once the freight cars are unloaded they are handed over to the Southern Railway of Vancouver Island for delivery. This railway operates 10 miles of track on the former Esquimalt & Nanaimo Railway using GP 9's.

A Southern Railway Of Vancouver Island Train Near Nanaimo

Departing Nanaimo we have a short ride to Parksville and hotel check-in at the 3 Star Bayside Oceanfront Resort which is right on the beach. You can relax and take a stroll on the beach if you choose. The hotel restaurant is open for dinner.

After a leisurely breakfast at the hotel restaurant we board our coach and head west for the one hour ride to Port Alberni. We will first visit the McLean Mill Historic Site. This mill is a rare, preserved 1920s steam-powered logging and lumber operation located in the Alberni Valley. It features 35 heritage structures including a sawmill, cookhouse, and bunkhouses, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century forest industry history. This is one of the only remaining sawmills in British Columbia with intact, steam-operated equipment like circular saws and original steam engines. You can explore the preserved social and working areas of the mill, including the blacksmith shop, bunkhouse, and the Cookhouse. The mill pond is a picturesque landscape feature originally used for floating, sorting, and holding logs.

🍽 lunch

Our First Stop Is At The McLean Mill National
Historic Site Near Port Alberni. Both The
Railfan & Tourist Groups Will Get To Explore
This Mill That Was Built In 1926 - next photo

The Mill Pond Where The Logs Were Sorted

Remains Of The McLean Mill Logging Railroad
Including A Rare Diesel & A Caboose -
next 4 photos

Next we return to Port Alberni to explore the Industrial Heritage Center Museum celebrating the region's rich logging, railway, and industrial history. This facility serves as both an active restoration workshop and a public exhibit for antique machinery. The museum houses a vast, indoor collection of historical artifacts, including massive vintage logging trucks, railway cars, and historic saws.

We now take a break for lunch. Port Alberni has several local restaurants. After lunch we will split the group into the Railfans and the Tourist.

The Industrial Heritage Center Museum - next 2 photos

The Railfan Group:

First will visit Alberni Pacific Railway workshops. Here you will see and photograph a variety of steam and diesel engines which will include No. 7, a Baldwin 2-8-2T, No. 2 a Lima Shay, and a unique Alco diesel which was chop nosed for the Canadian Pacific in Montreal, Quebec and put into service at the classification hump yard. It was then acquired by the Crown Zellerback Railroad on Vancouver Island where it once pulled log trains for the mill. once pulled logs for the Crown Zellerback Railroad on the island. After our workshop visit we will have two charter trains waiting for us. Our diesel pulled passenger train will haul the rail photographers and run ahead of the steam pulled log train. The log train will be pulled by No. 7, a Baldwin 2-8-2T. For the balance of the afternoon we will have several photo run-bys at scenic locations along the Alberni Pacific.

Alberni Pacific Railway No. 7 A Baldwin 2-8-2T At Port Alberni

Alberni Pacific Railway Alco RS 3 And Shay No. 2
At Port Alberni - next photo

Baldwin No. 7 Pulling A Special Empty Log Train On The Alberni Pacific Railway -
next 3 photos

Video of Alberni Pacific Railway No. 7

The Tourist Group:

Visit near-by Cathedral Grove, located in MacMillan Provincial Park. This is an ancient, internationally significant old-growth forest. Famous for towering Douglas firs—some over 800 years old and reaching 245 feet high. There are a number of trails that allow visitors to walk beneath a soaring, sun-dappled canopy. Next we visit Sproat Lake which is a massive freshwater lake 8 miles from Port Alberni. Famed for its exceptionally clear, warm waters, it is a premier summer destination for swimming, boating, fishing, and camping.

Exploring The Cathedral Grove Located In MacMillan
Provincial Park For The Tourist Group - next photo

Sproat Lake Near Port Alberni

Late afternoon both groups rejoin for the one hour coach ride back to our hotel in Parksville for a 2nd night at the Bayside Oceanfront Resort.

We depart from the hotel for the short 30 minute coach ride to Nanaimo. You can either enjoy breakfast at the hotel restaurant or onboard the BC Ferry. At Nanaimo we will board the 8:40am BC Ferry for the 90 minute cruise over to the BC mainland at Horseshoe Bay which is located a few miles north of North Vancouver. Here we board another charter motorcoach for the 45 minute drive north along scenic Howe Sound to the town of Squamish.

🍽 lunch

BC Ferry Back To The Mainland Of British Columbia

Beautiful Howe Sound South Of Squamish

In Squamish we enjoy the Railway Museum of British Columbia. This museum is located on 12 acres and is home to the famous Royal Hudson steam locomotive and houses the largest collection of railway rolling stock and engines in Western Canada. Besides the Royal Hudson this museum has both Canadian National, Canadian Pacific, and Algoma Central F units, a Pacific Great Eastern Alco RS 3, Canadian Pacific Alco S 3, a Pacific Great Eastern Baldwin 2-6-2ST and a former British Columbia Railway RDC Budd rail car. We plan to take a ride on the former BCR RDC Budd rail car. We will have a picnic lunch on the museum grounds.

The Royal Hudson at the Railway Museum of
British Columbia

Pacific Great Eastern Railway 2-6-2ST

Pacific Great Eastern Railway Alco RS-3

Canadian Pacific and Canadian National Railway F7A's On
Display in Squamish, BC - next photo

We will take a ride on the British Columbia Railway Budd RDC Railcar BC-21

Also Rides Will Be Available Around The Museum Grounds On Their 7.5” Railroad

Videos of The Railway Museum of British Columbia

After our museum visit we will head back south towards North Vancouver first making a stop to view Shannon Falls then near-by is the Britannia Mine Museum. This was a functioning mine from 1904 until 1974. Ore was first discovered here in 1888 and at one point, more than 60,000 people lived nearby and worked in what was once the largest copper mine in the former British Empire. Over seven decades, workers extracted more than 50 million tons of ore that produced copper, zinc, lead, cadmium, silver, and gold. This mine tour will take us underground for a short distance.

The Britannia Mine Museum is right on the spectacular Howe Sound. After our tour we make our way south towards Vancouver making one or two photo stops along the way. Howe Sound is a spectacular, triangular fjord just northwest of Vancouver. Framed by steep mountains rising straight from the sea, it serves as a massive recreational playground for sailing, diving, and hiking. It is also North America's southernmost fjord. The sound is dotted with numerous islands and the dramatic eastern shoreline is traced by the winding Sea to Sky Highway that we will travel on.

Upon our arrival back in Vancouver we go directly to our hotel for check-in. The evening is yours at your own leisure to enjoy downtown Vancouver. 4 star Best Western Premier Chateau Granville Hotel

The Britannia Mine Museum Just South Of Squmish,
British Columbia - next 2 photos

Video of The Britannia Mine Museum

You will be able to get breakfast at the hotel restaurant before we depart at 9:00am for the short motorcoach transfer to the downtown Waterfront Sky Train station where we will board a light rail train for a journey through downtown Vancouver and all the way to Surrey. Here we transfer by highway coach to the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway for a visit. Enjoy a ride on a restored BC Electric Interurban Car.

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Vancouver's SkyTrain

Fraser Valley Heritage Railway

of the Fraiser Valley Hertiage Railway

Mid-day we visit Fort Langley which is a charming, historic village on the Fraser River known as the Birthplace of British Columbia. It offers a mix of heritage architecture, 1800s fur-trade history, boutique shopping, and scenic waterfront trails. The Fort Langley National Historic Site is a reconstructed 1827 Hudson’s Bay Company post featuring rough-hewn timber buildings, historic and reenactments. The walkable town center along Glover Road is often compared to a storybook setting. . It is packed with vintage boutiques, antique stores, independent coffee shops and Cafes. Other points of interest is the Canadian National Railway Station Museum and the BC Farm Museum. While visiting here you will have the opportunity to get some lunch.

After our Fort Langley visit we transfer by highway to the near-by Burnaby Central Railway. This is a unique 1/8 scale, ride-on miniature railway built and operated by the volunteers of the BC Society of Model Engineers. The trains pull multiple cars carrying 20 or more passengers on a 2.5-mile, outdoor ride through the woods, with bridges, tunnels, crossovers, and spirals. Mid-afternoon we return to our hotel in downtown Vancouver and rest of the evening at your own leisure in downtown Vancouver. 2nd night at the Best Western Premier Chateau Granville Hotel.

We Take A Ride On The Burnable
Central Railway - next photo

Video of the Burnaby Central Railway

OPTION 2 JUNE 8-14.

Those folks that booked on this option the end of your tour is when you check-out from the hotel in Vancouver the morning of June 14.

OPTION 3 JUNE 13-22:

Those folks that booked on this option will arrive today in Vancouver and your lodging tonight is included at the group hotel.

We will have an early morning transfer from our hotel to the Pacific Central Station to board the famous Rocky Mountaineer which departs at 8:00am. Breakfast will be served shortly after departure from Vancouver. We will travel onboard this luxurious train from the coastal city of Vancouver to Kamloops, located in the heart of British Columbia's Interior. Our group will be in Gold Leaf Class which is the best on the train. This is five star comfort with five star views. Indulge your senses with gourmet meals prepared by Executive Chefs. Enjoy two meals onboard, breakfast and lunch in the lower level private dining room. Step out onto your exclusive outdoor viewing platform to get closer to the action. This is a fantastic way to take photos of the train on a curve as you lean out for that perfect picture. This is just what the railfan photographers love to do. There is nothing quite like hanging out of an open vestibule as the train rounds a curve. On the upper level you will enjoy spacious, reclining seats and full-dome windows. Gold Leaf Class is first class in every sense of the word. The upper level is where you can relax, stretch out in comfortable, reclining seats, and enjoy complimentary beverages and snacks. Just sit back and enjoy the scenery as our Hosts attend to your every need. From entertaining you with stories about passing landmarks to topping off your glass of wine and calling out wildlife sightings, you can rest assured that everything will be taken care of.

🍽 breakfast, lunch

GOLDLEAF SERVICE ON THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER

The Rocky Mountaineer Is Now Considered The Most Luxurious Train In
North America. It Is Called The “Rolls Royce” Of Trains - next photo

Goldleaf Class Is Perfect for the Railfan That Loves To Stand
At An Open Vestibule Hang Out   And Take Pictures As The
Train Rounds A Curve. Gold Leaf Has An Open
Viewing Platform - next photo

In Goldleaf Class You Have Your Own Dining Room In
The Lower Level of The Luxury Coach - next photo

Spectacular Views Around Every Curve From The Open Platform

On today's journey, you will see dramatic changes in scenery, from the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley, through forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains, to the desert-like landscapes of the B.C. Interior. Highlights include the rushing waters of Hell's Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River. Your day ends in the evening as the train travels along the shores of Kamloops Lake and into the town of Kamloops. Overnight in Kamloops at a top rated hotel chosen by the Rocky Mountaineer.

The Rocky Mountaineer In The Fraser River Canyon

Video of the Rocky Mountaineer in Gold Leaf Class

Early in the morning, your journey continues eastward to the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. Once again, you will experience ever-changing scenery as you 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. Today's highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the climb over Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, the Spiral Tunnels and, of course, the iconic glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Your rail journey ends this evening in the resort town of Banff, Alberta nestled in the Bow Valley in Banff National Park. Upon arrival we make a short transfer of 20 minutes to Canmore. Our hotel sits close to the CPKC mainline so those photographers that would like to catch some of the train action can do so outside or from your own room. Hotel check-in at the 3 star Canmore Inn & Suites.

🍽 breakfast, lunch

The Rocky Mountaineer In The Spectacular
Canadian Rockies - next 4 photos

After a leisurely breakfast we jump on our charter motorcoach for a day of railfanning on Kicking Horse Pass and the famous Spiral tunnels located on the mainline of the Canadian Pacific-Kansas City Limited Railway (CPKC).

🍽 breakfast, lunch

FOR THE RAILFANS:

Kicking Horse Pass is a spectacular high mountain corridor on the Continental Divide, spanning the Alberta–British Columbia border through Yoho and Banff national parks. Rising to 5, 338 feet (1,627 meters) , it features towering Rocky Mountain peaks, the rushing Kicking Horse River, and historic engineering feats. In an 1858 incident geologist James Hector was kicked by his horse and the the name came to be. This pass is framed by rugged alpine scenery and glacial valleys.

This pass carries the Trans-Canada Highway and more important the main line of the Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited Railway. A major highlight is the world famous ⁠Spiral Tunnels where we can watch trains navigate a famous, engineered corkscrew design to overcome the pass's famously steep grades. The steep grade in Kicking Horse Pass posed a serious challenge. Under government pressure to complete the railway, and given the engineering challenges that came along with the geography, Canadian Pacific was not in a position to carve a gradual descent. A solution was reached, which temporarily allowed a grade of 4.5%. The first train to attempt the hill in 1884 derailed, tragically killing three workers. In an effort to improve safety, three spur lines were created to divert such runaway trains on what became known as the “Big Hill”. Switches were left set for the spurs and were not reset to the main line until switchmen knew the oncoming train was in control. Descending the Big Hill was challenging, but uphill trains had their problems too. Extra locomotives were needed to push the trains up the hill, causing delays and requiring extra workers.

The solution for a more gradual grade came from J.E. Schwitzer, one of the railway’s Assistant Chief Engineers. He modeled the Spiral Tunnels after a system used in Switzerland. In 1909 the Spiral Tunnels were completed and after 25 years of use, the Big Hill grade was abandoned. With a gentler grade, descents became safer and slower, spur lines and rear pushers were no longer necessary, and scheduling delays and operating costs were reduced. Although the Spiral Tunnels were a great improvement for the grade, rockslides, mudslides and avalanches are some of the challenges that train crews still face today.

An eastbound train leaving Field climbs a moderate hill, goes through two short, straight tunnels on Mt. Stephen, under the Trans-Canada Highway, across the Kicking Horse River and into the Lower Spiral Tunnel in Mt. Ogden. It spirals to the left up inside the mountain for 0.6 miles and emerges 50 feet higher. The train then crosses back over the Kicking Horse River, under the highway a second time and into the 0.6 mile tunnel in Cathedral Mountain. The train spirals to the right, emerging 56 feet higher and continues to the top of Kicking Horse Pass.

The heavy freight traffic on the CPKC mainline will keep us busy taking pictures on the 55 miles of railroad between Banff, Alberta and Field, British Columbia. On an average day up to 30 trains per day travel over Kicking Horse Pass and the Spiral Tunnels. During busy periods trains will come by every 20 to 30 minutes. Most trains are well over 100 cars long and will have not only the lead diesels but helpers in the middle of the train and even a helper or two pushing on the rear. We will also try and catch a train at the famous Morants Curve just east of Lake Louise. Take a moment to view the 5 videos on the Spiral Tunnels by clicking on the links below the lower photo. Mid-day we will drop down the mountain to Field, British Columbia and get some lunch at a local restaurant.

This Is A CP Public Relations Photo Taken At The Lower
Spiral Tunnel Featuring Brand New Montreal Locomotive
Works Alco C-424 No. 4242 Taken In 1965

Fast Forward 30 Years And We Catch A Westbound Train On
the Lower Spiral Tunnel

Eastbound Train At the East
Portal Lower Spiral Tunnel

Westbound Train At The West Portal Of The
Lower Spiral Tunnel

Eastbound Freight Train At Morants Curve East Of Kicking Horse Pass

Videos of The Spiral Tunnels & Kicking Horse Pass

FOR THE TOURIST:

Their day will begin their day with a local guide and driver that will take first visit Bow Falls. This falls is a major, 30-foot waterfall located on the emerald-green Bow River in Banff, Alberta. Situated just a short walk from downtown Banff this popular, easily accessible cascade is famous for its raw, thundering power and stunning mountain backdrop. Though relatively short, the falls are wide and incredibly powerful, carving their way through a jagged rocky canyon just before the river merges with the Spray River. The roaring waters provided the backdrop for the famous 1953 Marilyn Monroe movie River of No Return.

Next we will visit Lake Minnewanka which is a stunning glacial lake in Alberta's Banff National Park. Known to the Stoney Nakoda First Nations as "Lake of the Spirits," it is 13 miles long and 466 feet deep. Famous for its crystal-clear emerald waters and sunken 1940s resort town, it is a prime destination for visitors. Submerged at the bottom of this lake after the construction of a dam in 1941, the townsite features intact foundations and wharves.

Mid-day we return to Banff and let you loose to get lunch at many of the local restaurants. Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, this picturesque mountain town is globally famous for its jagged peaks, glacier-fed turquoise lakes, abundant wildlife, and world-class skiing and hiking.

After you have had the opportunity to get some lunch and explroe downtown Banff mid-afternoon we reboard our private coach and head for Kicking Horse Pass. Kicking Horse is a majestic mountain pass in the Canadian Rockies along the Continental Divide, straddling the British Columbia and Alberta border inside Yoho and Banff National Parks. At 5,339 feet in elevation, it is a crucial, historic transportation corridor for the Trans-Canadian Highway and the Canadian Pacific Railway, now called Canadian Pacific-Kansas City Limited Railway. A stop will be made at the famous Spiral Tunnels viewpoint in Yoho National Park. There are two viewpoints, the Lower Tunnel Viewpoint and the Upper Tunnel Viewpoint. While visitng these two viewpoints hopefully a freight train will pass by. Late afternoon we will return to our hotel in Canmore. The rest of the evening at your own leisure.

For The Tourist Group We Will First Visit Bow Falls On The Bow River Near Banff

Lake Minnewanka Near Banff - next 2 photos

Downtown Banff, Alberta

We spend the day on the world-famous Icefields Parkway as we head north towards Jasper enjoying the spectacular Canadian Rockies on our way to Saskatchewan River Crossing where we will spend the night.

Our first stop out of Banff will be Lake Louise. This is a stunning alpine lake that looks too beautiful to be real. This area is called the “Jewel of the Canadian Rockies”. Wander the shoreline at Lake Louise and see the Victoria Glacier and the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel, and enjoy Moraine Lake in the beautiful Valley Of The Ten Peaks. We will see glaciers, roaring waterfalls, stunning turquoise lakes and plenty of wildlife.

After departing from Lake Louise we make a stop to view Hector Lake, Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, and the Wapta Icefield. After our picnic lunch we continue northbound enjoying the Mt. Patterson/Snowbird Glacier and arriving at our hotel in Banff National Park and check-in located at Saskatchewan River Crossing. 3 Star Crossing Resort.

🍽 breakfast, lunch

Lake Louise Is A Stunning Alpine Lake That Looks Too Beautiful To Be Real

As We Make Our Way Northbound Up The Icefields Parkway We Stop At
A Number Of Beautiful Lakes To Enjoy And Take Pictures

Towards Late Afternoon We View The Snowbird
Glacier Icefield Parkway - next phot

video of Icefield Parkway

After breakfast we continue northbound making photo stops at Waterfowl Lake and the Weeping Wall prior to arriving at the famous Columbia Icefields Discovery Centre and the Athabasca Glacier which are located in Jasper National Park. Departing from here we have several spectacular views of Glaciers prior to arrival at Sunwapta Falls.

🍽 breakfast

We Will Has Spectacular View Of Several Glaciers

The Icefields Parkway Travels Through Breathtaking Scenery

Sunwapta Falls is a powerful falls fed by the Athabasca Glacier, the 61 foot falls are famous for their forceful cascades roaring through a narrow canyon. After visiting these falls we stop for lunch at a near-by lodge that has a restaurant.

Sunwapta Falls on the Sunwapta River

After lunch we continue northbound making a stop at Athabasca Falls which is located 19 miles south of Jasper. This falls is 79 feet tall and is being fed by massive glacial runoff which funnels through a gorge to make it the most powerful in the Canadian Rockies.

Athabasca Falls On The Athabasca River

The Narrow Gorge Just Below The Falls

Photo opportunities are around every corner including abundant wildlife. There is a very good chance we will see some Grizzly Bears. Finally we arrive in the quaint town of Jasper set beneath majestic mountains. Upon arrival we will first enjoy a ride on the Jasper SkyTram which is Canada's longest and highest aerial tramway. We will be transported up the north face of Whistlers Mountain to an elevation of 7,425 feet.

The Jasper Sky Tram Going Up
Whistlers Mountain - next photo

After coming down off of the mountain we will have some time to explore Jasper which has a rustic charm. You will have some free time to explore the town of Jasper and if you like get some dinner at one of the many restaurants. Finally we head east to Hinton, Alberta which is just outside of Jasper National Park. Hotel check-in at the 3 star Velora Hinton Hotel.

After breakfast we make the drive back to Jasper which is under an hour on our private coach. In Jasper we board the westbound Via Rail Train No. 1 the Canadian which is scheduled to depart at 9:30am. Once you get all settled into your private sleeping cabin come on up to the dome car and enjoy the spectacular scenery. Shortly after departing Jasper we enter British Columbia and we gain one hour. Soon after entering British Columbia the train will travel through Yellowhead Pass with unparalleled views of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies at 12,972 feet. Pyramid Falls is a stunning, cascading waterfall that is situated in a remote area and is exclusively visible by train.

🍽 breakfast, lunch, dinner

The Westbound Canadian Just West Of Jasper

Getting Settled Into Your Cabin

Go Up To The Dome Car And Enjoy The Views

As The Canadian Continues Westbound The Scenery
Gets More Spectacular

As You Explore The Train Be Sure And Visit The
Observation Car At The Rear End - next photo

Enjoy Lunch And Later Dinner In The Dining Car Which Is
Included In Your Ticket Price - next photo

We continue west offering views of the Cariboo and the Monashee Mountains as lunch is served in the dining car. Our train will now head southwest as the lush evergreen forests and alpine environments transform into dramatic, desert-like canyons prior to arrival in Kamloops at 6:28pm. This is a 35 minute stop so you get off and stretch your legs if you like.

Departing Kamloops we will still have close to three hours of daylight to enjoy the high-walled desert canyons of British Columbia's interior. Just west of Kamloops the tracks run along the shores of Kamloops Lake for 18 miles. Be sure and grab a dome seat when the train departs Kamloops. Once the track reaches the west shores of the lake they enter the Upper Thompson River Canyon.

Departing Kamloops The Tracks Follow Kamloops Lake For 18 miles As The Sun Starts To Sink
Into The Western Sky. Be Sure And Grab A Seat In One Of The Dome Cars For A Great View

From the top of the canyon our train follows the winding, meandering paths of the South Thompson River. The Upper Thompson River Canyon is a rugged, semi-arid desert gorge in south-central British Columbia, characterized by towering, mineral-stained cliffs, sheer basalt walls, and the rushing turquoise waters of the Thompson River. Viewed from a train, the landscape rapidly shifts from verdant valleys into deep, steep-walled gorges sculpted by ancient glaciers and the elements. The canyon transitions from the arid, dusty clay formations and sagebrush west of Kamloops to the dramatic, deep black and white basalt cliffs further downriver. Spectacular snow-capped mountains and distant ranges in the Cariboos can be seen from the train with summits that reach elevations of up to 11,750 feet.

The canyon is renowned as one of the heaviest rail corridors in North America. From the passenger window, you'll see both Canadian National and Canadian Pacific Kansas City Limited Railways carving precarious ledges, darting through rock tunnels, and crossing high bridges on opposite sides of the river. Watch for the heavy freight traffic in this canyon. We suggest you get a dome seat departing Kamloops and stay there until the sun sets below the mountains.

From Your Dome Seat You Will Enjoy Spectacular Views Of The Snow Capped
Cariboo Mountains As Our Train Continues Down The Rugged
Upper Thompson River Canyon

Once the sun sets over the Cariboo Mountains then you can enjoy dinner in the dining car as the train continues to wind through steep dramatic canyons, pass through many tunnels and skirt through small mountain communities. After dinner and perhaps a night cap in the lounge car and as night falls you can settle into your private cabin for a good nights rest.

Video of the Via Rail Canadian Passenger Train

Video of meals onboard The Canadian Passenger Train

You may want to get up early and enjoy your cup of coffee in the dome car as our train passes through the lower Fraser River Canyon and exits into the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley. The dining car will open for breakfast at 6:30am and the train is due into Vancouver at 8:00am if on time. After detraining we departing from the Pacific Central Station in our private charter coach. We will take you on a grand Vancouver City tour which will include Stanley Park, Prospect Point, and the Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Center where Canadian Pacific steam locomotive No. 374 is on display. This 4-4-0 pulled the first transcontinental passenger train into Vancouver on May 23, 1887. Being a Sunday the city traffic will be light.

🍽 breakfast, dinner

Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation
Center & CP No. 374 is on display

Historic Gastown Vancouver's Original Core

Vancouver's Prospect Point in Stanley Park

Gastown Grew From A Single Taven
Established In 1867

The Steam Clock Is One Of Only A few
Functioning In The World

Mid-day you will have the opportuntiy to explore the historic Gastown section of Vancouver. Gastown is Vancouver’s historic heart and original downtown core, famous for its cobblestone streets, distinct Victorian-era architecture, and seamless blend of vintage charm and modern urban chic. The Steam Clock is an iconic landmark. It is one of only a few functioning steam clocks in the world, whistling every 15 minutes and playing a chugging tune on the hour. Gastown grew from a single tavern established in 1867 by "Gassy Jack" Deighton, an English sailor known for his storytelling. A famous statue of him perched on a whiskey barrel still sits in Maple Tree Square. The century-old brick buildings now house some of Vancouver’s most stylish independent fashion boutiques, local design studios, and indigenous art galleries. It is also renowned for its high-end restaurants, craft breweries, and craft cocktail bars. While here you can get some lunch at one of many restaurants.

In the afternoon we will visit the Queen Elizabeth Park and the Bloedel Conservatory. Queen Elizabeth Park is Vancouver’s 130-acre horticultural jewel. Sitting at the city's highest point, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the downtown skyline and North Shore mountains. The park is famous for its lush quarry gardens, and massive arboretum. Converted from former basalt rock quarries, these spectacular sunken gardens feature cascading waterfalls, winding stone paths, and a diverse collection of flowers and exotic shrubs.

Within Queen Elizabeth Park is the Bloedel Conservatory which is a lush, domed paradise located 500 feet above sea level at the highest point of Vancouver in Queen Elizabeth Park. It features over 500 exotic plants and more than 100 free-flying, rescued tropical birds enclosed within an iconic plexiglass heritage dome.A stellar marvel of mid-century architecture. Under a single roof, it hosts a Tropical Rainforest, a Subtropical Rainforest, and an arid Desert zone. Note: All of the above activities in Vancouver can only be visited if the Canadian is on-time or close to being on-time. .

Late afternoon we will transfer to our hotel for check-in at the 4 star Best Western Premier Chateau Granville Hotel. After relaxing and refreshing up in your room we will all meet down in the lobby for the transfer to a local restaurant for our “Farewell Dinner”.

Within Queen Elizabeth Park Is The Bloedel
Conservatory Which Is A Lush
Domed Paradise - next photo

Video of Vancouver, British Columbia

Hotel check-out and end of tour

🍽 none