
Canadian Sea To Sky Explorer
Get this trip plan customized to cover everything you want to see.
Learn which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
Online booking sites prefer you do not bother them at all. Our approach is completely the opposite – instead we put visitors directly in touch with our Canadian travel Insiders because we believe the best vacations are personal.
Sample Itinerary
Think of this itinerary as just a starting point. Our experienced Canadian Insiders will create a personalized experience for you that matches your schedule, travel style and budget.Day 1 – Arrive in Vancouver
Vancouver is considered to be one of the most desirable places to live in the world – it is rich with culture, art, cuisine and diversity while being surrounded by wild mountains, oceans and forests. Walk out of the airport and right into a private vehicle. Your driver will help orient you to our hometown, Vancouver.
Feature Dinner in Vancouver
Did you know Vancouver is one of the top culinary destinations in the world? Enjoy a great meal in the best setting while making memories with your loved ones – in one of our favorite restaurants!
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 – Explore Vancouver
Today it’s your choice – you have 3 options to choose from to help you discover Vancouver and its magnificent surroundings.
• Option 1: Vancouver and North Shore Tour
Find out why Vancouver is consistently voted one of the world’s most livable cities. Uniquely gifted with the juxtaposition of mountains and ocean, this tour allows you to explore Vancouver’s highlights and venture into the local mountains and temperate rainforest. Take an exhilarating walk over the treetops at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and learn about the delicate temperate rainforest ecosystem.
Activity rating: Easy
• Option 2: Vancouver Bicycle Tour
A cycle tour is the best way to explore a new city and experience many neighborhoods in a short time. Highlights include Stanley Park, English Bay, Granville Island (Aquabus Ride on False Creek included), Chinatown, Gastown, and Coal Harbour. Lunch break at Granville Island on your own.
Activity rating: Moderate
• Option 3: Squamish Sea to Sky Sightseeing Tour
Explore the Sea to Sky corridor including Horseshoe Bay and Shannon Falls, BC's third highest waterfall. Then ascend 840 m (2755 ft) to the top of the new Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish, cross the suspension bridge, and take a mine train ride through history at the Britannia Mine Museum. Admissions included.
Activity rating: Moderate
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 3 – Vancouver to Victoria
BC’s capital city – Victoria – is located on wild and beautiful Vancouver Island, where it offers a fascinating blend of West Coast culture and British charm. Explore excellent museums, art galleries and the rich history.
Today you have 3 transportation options to choose from – each delivering an exciting journey:
• Option 1: Whale Watching Adventure
Did you know that the waters between Vancouver, Victoria and the Juan de Fuca Straight are teeming with marine wildlife? Orcas, humpback whales, porpoises, and sea lions are just some of the species you might encounter. This tour will deliver you to Victoria’s Inner Harbor just before lunch time – and with experiences to reminisce about over your meal!
Activity Rating: Moderate
• Option 2: Bus and Ferry
You’ll board a bus in Vancouver which takes you through the farmlands of Vancouver’s rich agricultural surroundings before driving onto the ferry. The passage takes about 90 minutes, offering magnificent views of mountains and ocean. Keep your eyes peeled for whales, especially while navigating the waters of scenic Active Pass. Arriving on Vancouver Island, your coach journey will continue to downtown Victoria.
Activity Rating: Easy
• Option 3: Float Plane
Have you ever wanted to take off and land on water? This is your chance! An exciting floatplane flight from Vancouver’s Harbor to Victoria’s Inner Harbor will let you experience the thrill and a gorgeous bird’s eye view of the Gulf Islands on the way.
Activity Rating: Easy
After arriving into Victoria, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring at your leisure.
Overnight in Victoria.
Day 4 – Explore Victoria
Victoria has much more to offer than initially meets the eye, and we’ve made sure you get to discover the city’s hidden treasures while leaving your free time to explore the regular tourist attractions that interest you.
You have 3 options to choose from today:
• Option 1: Victoria Hiking Tour
Pack your running shoes for a stunning adventure in the area around Victoria. On this comfortable walk, explore about 1km of trail with many stops for views including a 360 panorama of the city, mountains and ocean. You may even have the chance to see harbour seals and other wildlife on your adventure.
Activity rating: Moderate – Challenging
Distance: 6.5 km (3.8 miles); Elevation Gain: 200 m (650 ft)
• Option 2: Victoria Harbour Urban Kayak Tour
See the city up close – seals, seaplanes, eagles, the Fairmont Empress and much more. From this unique perspective, your guide will describe Victoria’s historic waterways by pointing out the many interesting locations and buildings that make up the charming downtown of Victoria, BC.
Activity rating: Moderate
• Option 3: Butchart Gardens Visit
If you are a garden enthusiast, no visit to Victoria is complete without seeing these magnificent and historic gardens. Spend as much time as you like exploring the stunning displays and intimate pathways as a shuttle departs hourly to and from the gardens and downtown.
Activity rating: Easy
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 5 – Drive from Victoria to Telegraph Cove
Pick up your rental car early this morning and drive along the scenic roads of Vancouver Island from Victoria to Telegraph Cove, a small town tucked away on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island. Getting here is well worth the extra steps. This quiet town now impresses with pristine and spectacular natural surroundings, abundant marine life, and a very rich history. Settle in to your accommodation and enjoy the historic boardwalk.
Overnight in Telegraph Cove.
Day 6 – Johnstone Straight and Blackfish Sound – Grizzly Bear Tour
We have the following tour included for you today to explore the magnificent wilderness that surrounds you:
• Included: Grizzly Bear Expedition.
Join a guide and small group on a marine excursion to a small cove in one of BC’s many coastal inlets to encounter grizzly bears feasting in the rich waters of the estuary. On route, chances are you might encounter marine mammals such as orcas, humpback whales, pods of Pacific white-sided dolphins, and porpoises. This is an amazing way to view wildlife far away from the disturbances of civilization.
Activity rating: Easy
Overnight in Telegraph Cove.
Day 7 – Drive from Telegraph Cove to Port Hardy
The drive today is short, giving you the opportunity this morning to enjoy and discover the quaint little town of Telegraph Cove before you head north. Weave your way north along the scenic roads of Vancouver Island until you reach Port Hardy. This small fishing port is located on the northern tip of the island and is surrounded by wild and rugged scenery. Drop off your rental car and prepare for your Inside Passage ferry tomorrow morning.
Overnight in Port Hardy.
Day 8 – Port Hardy to Prince Rupert – The Inside Passage
Inhale the fresh clean air on the deck of the ship as you admire the views along the Inside Passage. Lush green coastal mountains, thick old-growth forests, tranquil grey-blue water and perhaps even a soaring hawk or eagle or a breaching whale - this unspoiled scenery will captivate you. Arrive in the town of Prince Rupert in Northern BC in the evening.
Overnight in Prince Rupert.
Day 9 – Explore Prince Rupert
There is plenty to discover in this Northern BC town. You have 2 options to choose from, showcasing the best of this area.
• Option 1: Wildlife Viewing Tour (Seasonal)
On specific start dates, you also have the option of venturing into the Khutzeymateen Wilderness in the heart of the protected Great Bear Rainforest by boat for additional grizzly bear or whale watching. Please inquiry with your Vacation Advisor for seasonal availability when you call!
Activity rating: Easy – Moderate
• Option 2: Privately Guided Canoe Adventure
Join a guide for an out-of-the-ordinary yet quintessential Canadian experience – a canoe paddle. Head out to paddle on the silence of a lake surrounded by mountains or discover the shoreline of a nearby island.
Activity rating: Easy – Moderate
Overnight in Prince Rupert.
Day 10 – Board VIA Rail – Prince Rupert to Prince George
Board the VIA Rail Skeena Train and glide down the tracks alongside the raging Skeena River. You’ll pass by canyons, valleys, and mountain ranges where fur traders and First Nations people once traveled. Did you know the Skeena Train still delivers mail and other necessities to remote communities along the way? Reach the city of Prince George where you will spend the night.
Overnight in Prince George.
Day 11 – VIA Rail – Prince George to Jasper
Continue your train journey toward the Canadian Rockies. The Skeena Train has large windows perfect for viewing the rugged peaks and dense green forests all around you. Sit back while enjoying your included meals and admire the views. Upon arrival, pick up your rental car and spend the night in Jasper, a quiet mountain town surrounded by pristine alpine wilderness.
Overnight in Jasper.
Day 12 – Jasper
Spend the day exploring all the exciting opportunities of Jasper National Park.
You have 3 options to choose from today to help you enjoy Jasper:
• Option 1: Jasper Sidecar Motorcycle Tour
Head out for a thrilling tour in the sidecar of a Harley Davidson motorcycle. Visit your choice of Marmot Basin, along a winding mountain road for an elevated view of the Athabasca Valley, or tour the many lakes and lookouts of the park. Alternative destinations are available on longer tours. Good for 1 or 2 passengers.
Activity rating: Easy
• Option 2: Privately Guided Nature Walk or Hike
Track wildlife, admire rare alpine wildflowers, and see magnificent valley views with one of the best, hand-picked mountain guides in Jasper. Enjoy a leisurely pace, and plenty of time for photos and discussion. More challenging hikes are also available on request.
Activity rating: Moderate (approx. 4 miles | 6.5km)
• Option 3: Maligne Lake Cruise + Jasper SkyTram
Visit the beautiful natural wonder of Maligne Lake, where you will take a boat cruise to scenic Spirit Island. You also have admission to the Jasper SkyTram today – the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada and the only guided aerial ropeway in the Canadian Rockies. Providing visitors with unprecedented views of six mountain ranges, glacial fed lakes, the Athabasca River and the scenic mountain town-site of Jasper.
Activity rating: Easy
Overnight in Jasper.
Day 13 – Icefields Parkway from Jasper to Lake Louise
Drive along what is surely one of the most scenic mountain roads in the world – the Icefields Parkway.
You have the choice of 3 options for exploring the Icefields Parkway:
• Option 1: Icefields Helicopter Experience
Step away from the crowds and take a helicopter tour abundant in natural beauty, glaciers and waterfalls. Leave from an exclusive Icefields base and soar over Cline Pass and over Cline, Lion and Lioness Glaciers. You’ll also view a spectacular 900ft waterfall flowing from two aqua green lakes!
Activity rating: Easy
• Option 2: Guided Icewalk on the Athabasca Glacier
This tour will have you venturing down the Icefields Parkway to the famous Columbia Icefields, one of the most scenic drives in the world. Step onto the Athabasca Glacier and explore safely along snow and ice while your experienced guide navigates. Equipment is included.
Activity rating: Moderate
• Option 3: Ice Explorer and Glacier Skywalk Admissions
Drive the Icefields Parkway at your own pace and stop for a guided ride on the Ice Explorer out onto the Athabasca Glacier, where you’ll be able to spend some time walking on the glacier and filling your bottle with ice cold glacial water. Further down the Parkway, your admission to the Glacier Skywalk is included, giving you the chance to experience one of the newest attractions in the Canadian Rockies.
Activity rating: Easy
Feature Dinner in Lake Louise
This evening, you’ll relax and refresh with an indulgent dining experience. Surrounded by spectacular lake views, savor a 3-course meal in Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise’s Fairview Dining Room.
Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 14 – Drive from Lake Louise to Banff
Before driving the short distance to Banff, explore our Lake Louise Activity Menu for some exciting options to enjoy the area. At your leisure, journey to Banff, a friendly and vibrant town surrounded by mountains on all sides. Spend the afternoon enjoying the fun, relaxed vibe. Unwind in the park alongside the Bow River and visit the many quirky local boutiques and cafes along Banff Avenue.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 15 – Explore Banff
Take a full day to discover the wilderness surrounding the town of Banff. Enjoy the views from the Banff Gondola located atop Sulphur Mountain.
Additionally, you have the choice of one of 3 options today to help you enjoy Banff:
• Option 1: Guided Wilderness and Nature Tour
Looking to escape the crowds and getting on the path less traveled? This guided wilderness adventure will get you out into beautiful and pristine Kananaskis Country on specific start dates – jagged peaks, glistening streams and glaciers are your backdrop for the day. Encountering wildlife on this outing is more likely than on the well-trodden paths in Banff. The tour culminates at the summit of Highwood Pass at 2200 m (7200 ft.). Now that’s something to write home about!
Activity rating: Moderate
• Option 2: Scenic Ride to Sunshine Village + Standish Chairlift + Hosted Trail Walk
Starting at the base (1,660m) take the Scenic Alpine Shuttle or Sightseeing Gondola (depending on the day of the week) up to the village at 2,164m, all while taking in the views of the valley. From the Village, ride the Standish Chairlift to over 2,400m and experience 360-degrees of breath-taking views. Once at the top, surrounded by the iconic peaks of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, join a hosted trail walk. With your knowledgeable guide, visit the Standish Viewing Deck, then take the Rock Isle Road back to Sunshine Village, stopping by Rock Isle Lake viewpoint to take in the beautiful vistas.
Activity rating: Moderate
• Option 3: Privately Guided Sunrise Photography Tour (additional cost)
Wake up early to experience the magical wilderness of Banff National Park at sunrise. Explore with a private guide and learn how to take great photos. Ideal for the amateur photographer wanting to increase their skills with a manual camera. This is a sure way to make friends and family at home jealous!
Activity rating: Moderate (some walking involved)
Overnight in Banff.
Day 16 – Depart to Calgary
Wave goodbye to the Rocky Mountains as you drive to the Calgary Airport to catch your flight home. The amazing sights you have seen on your Canadian adventure have become memories that you will never forget.
Take the stress out of planning your trip to Canada with:
- Every detail and arrangement taken care of for a seamless trip.
- Suggestions to get the most out of Canada based on local insider knowledge.
- Your own personal contact in Canada you can call before or during your trip.
What Clients Say

Our trip was well planned and coordinated

“ Our trip was well planned and coordinated. We had a delightful time. We did have a few issues along the way but the Fresh Tracks staff did a great job of taking care of them. ”
Joel & Party, GA, USA
Accommodation Options
Below you'll find examples of this trip's accommodation options. Please call us for the full list or advice on how to customize your experience.
Magnolia Hotel And Spa
An example of our Boutique accommodations
This stylish boutique hotel in Victoria's inner harbor goes above and beyond to make your visit special, with unique touches such as fresh flowers and fruit in the lobby, gourmet coffee, tea, and spring water.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
An example of our Comfort, Superior, and Deluxe accommodations
This top notch 5 star hotel has an amazing location – overlooking the mirror-like waters of Lake Louise. Its timeless elegance will make you feel pampered and there are plenty of activities to enjoy, from horseback riding to canoeing to skating, skiing and hiking.
Rimrock Resort
An example of our Superior and Deluxe accommodations
The stunning 4.5 star Rimrock Resort is built into the side of a mountain, offering gorgeous panoramic views over the Bow Valley from the large windows in the main lobby. The hotel is a fantastic example of Rocky Mountain luxury, with an upscale atmosphere and warm, welcoming service.
The Loden Hotel
An example of our Boutique accommodations
With personal touches and luxury amenities, the Loden Hotel is the ideal boutique accommodation centrally located in the city of Vancouver. Drawing its inspiration from the natural setting of Vancouver and its coastal environment, the Loden features an interior rich in colour and detail. Ideally located just minutes from downtown Vancouver and the Coal Harbour seawall.
Trip Start Dates
2019 Vancouver Start Dates*Jun 14, 24, 28
Jul 8, 12, 22, 26
Aug 5, 9, 19, 23
Sep 2, 6
* More dates are available for this vacation, with slight variations to the itinerary. Please call for a personalized trip.
Trip Prices
Prices listed may vary by departure date, hotel class and degree of personalization. Please speak with one of our travel advisors to get a personalized quote.
Our Superior Level provides amazing value for clients wanting something more upscale but not at the price of a top-end 5 star resort. Superior level hotels are some of our favorites because of the character and unique charm that you won't find at the average chain hotel. Unique tours and seamless transfers complete your itinerary.
What you'll love about
this trip
Getting off the beaten path without sacrificing any “creature comforts”
Spending two days on the Skeena Train by VIA Rail
Exploring Vancouver Island and the stunning Rocky Mountains
Unforgettable opportunities to spot whales and grizzly bears in the wild
Discovering the city of Vancouver and the quaint “Britishness” of Victoria
Taking a day cruise along the spectacular Inside Passage
Common Questions
You'll be staying at various local three to five start hotels or lodges along your route, some of which are very iconic properties with great locations, views and history. All our accommodations are carefully selected by our Canadian Insiders. We'll make sure that wherever you stay, you get the best value and comfort based on the seasonal availability.
Typically we include and pre-book all your main trip components so you don't have to worry about your connections, places to stay, or activities on your trip. You'll receive a complete travel package with detailed documentation and our Canadian Insiders remain at your disposal before and during your trip to answer your questions.
Your trip can be as rich as you'd like, and completely arranged around your interests and needs. The greatest benefit of working with us is our local knowledge. You can request your free trip plan to decide what you'd like to see and do.
If your trip is a special occasion, we'll make sure it is unforgettable. Or if you're traveling with a group, we'll take care of the logistics so you can share time together stress-free.
Canada has a network of spectacular roadways, train routes, ferry crossings, and float planes. We can arrange for you to travel by car or to sit back and relax.
New visitors will drive with ease because of the wide and well maintained roadways. We'll ensure your trip includes the most spectacular and safest routes throughout your trip.
That depends on the destination and type. As a rule, the main feeding and migration seasons are best for wildlife experiences. Tell us which animals interest you and we'll make your trip coincide with the best viewing season.
With the exception of our guided wildlife trips, our vacations are not typically 'escorted.' We combine the best of both worlds – the reassurance of seamless connections, customer service support, and scheduled activities, plus the freedom of 'independent' travel. You are not tied into a specific group, or a rigid daily itinerary. This allows us to personalize your trip to suit your occasion, interests, and timeframe.
The temperature varies from mild to hot, depending on location. Northern Canada will range between 50°F to 64°F (10°C – 18°C) in summer. The interior of BC, prairies, Ontario and Quebec can reach temperatures around 95°F (35°C). Canada's west coast, mountain regions, and Maritimes enjoy milder summer temperatures. They range on average from 59°F to 77°F (15°C – 25°C).
All our trips can be customized to fit your schedule and budget. The price depends on travel season, train service, hotel level, and the sightseeing tours you choose. Request your free trip plan which will provide you with a detailed cost estimate.
On this Canadian rail, cruise, and drive vacation, discover the magic of the West Coast and Canadian Rockies. Journey to the Great Bear Rainforest, to see breaching whales and foraging grizzly bears. Take the train to the stunning Canadian Rockies to see ancient geological formations, turquoise lakes, mountain goats, and black bears.
Trip Outline
Arrive Vancouver → 2 nights Vancouver → 2 nights Victoria → 2 nights Alert Bay → 1 night Port Hardy → 2 nights Prince Rupert → 1 night Prince George → 2 nights Jasper → 1 night Lake Louise → 2 nights Banff → Depart Calgary
Fresh Tracks Canada Vs. Others
Fresh Tracks Canada | Local Travel Agency | Doing it Yourself | |
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Independent Travel
Flexibility and freedom of a personalized tour to suit your travel goals. |
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Better Rates and Availability
You'll get better rates and availability because of our relationships with our suppliers (hotels, tour operators, etc.). Even when popular locations are booking up fast. |
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Personalized itineraries
Have everything pre-arranged and booked around you. (Hotels, transportation, tours, free-time, etc.) |
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Insider Knowledge
Get suggestions based on your interests from over 20 years of local knowledge. Our Insiders live and travel Canada so you'll know when to come, where to stay, which transportation to take, and lots more… |
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Local Support
Someone in Canada you can call before and during your trip, seven days a week. |
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No-one can be trusted more
You'll feel confident when booking your vacation with our accreditation and consumer protection through the following organizations. ![]() |
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Pre-packaged TripsOne-size-fits-all approach. |
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Group ToursCheapest type of travel with rigid itineraries and crowds. |
Customer Reviews & Testimonials
Our trip was well planned and coordinated

“ Our trip was well planned and coordinated. We had a delightful time. We did have a few issues along the way but the Fresh Tracks staff did a great job of taking care of them. ”
Joel & Party, GA, USA
My camera never stopped clicking

“ I liked the variety of scenery in British Columbia. The west coast had a particular charm with water, islands, the coastal mountains, and wildlife as the attractions. Traveling through the Coastal Mountains to the Caribou and Rocky... read more Mountains was dramatic and spectacular. The beauty of western Alberta was as dramatic, but I really liked the quaintness of Jasper. My travels from Banff back to Vancouver was also a revelation. The rivers and the landscapes west of Kamloops were so different than other scenic places on the trip. My camera never stopped clicking. ”
Jay, CT, USA
Fresh Tracks was truly amazing

“ I was taken care of like royalty. The views were beyond remarkable and awe inspiring. I truly did not have to think of anything because Fresh Tracks did so much preliminary planning. Fresh Tracks was truly amazing. They were knowledgeable,... read more helpful and thought of my specific needs in putting this trip together. Fresh Tracks - as well as Canada, exceeded all expectations. ”
Mariann, OH, USA
You set everything up above my expectations and I thank you

“ It was amazing and had a great time. Everything went very well and the hotels were amazing. The people and everything else was fantastic. We took over 3000 pictures and did see many animals. You set everything up above my expectations... read more and I thank you. Maybe considering another vacation to Canada in the future. Thank you for making it a memorable vacation. ”
Diane, Richard & Kira, PA, USA
A splendid trip around your great country

“ We have safely returned home after a splendid trip around your great country and British Columbia. Jan and I extend our thanks for all your efforts to arrange this trip and make it a very special one indeed. It turns out my initial... read more worries were quite unfounded and all went extremely well. We will recommend this trip to friends and neighbors and without hesitation refer them to Fresh Tracks Canada and you personally for travel assistance. ”
John & Jan, NM, USA
Perfectly organized

“ Everything went exceptionally well - perfectly organized and great places and people - we really enjoyed it all. ”
Hilary & Robert, UK
We enjoyed every moment

“ We arrived home safe and sound yesterday afternoon – what a wonderful trip you planned for us – we thoroughly enjoyed every moment of our stay in Canada. ”
Tom
Limited Time Special Offers For This Trip
Get your FREE trip plan organized and arranged for you

- Get a trip that covers everything you want to see.
- Know which places to go and which areas are best during certain times of the year.
- Have someone local who knows the area to suggest trains, hotels, dining, sightseeing, etc.
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