How to Plan Your Western Trails Tour in Vancouver

Are you planning a trip to explore the beauty of the Canadian Rockies? Western Trails is the perfect tour for you! With a four-day guided tour from Vancouver to Calgary, you can explore the highlights of the Canadian Rockies with ease. In this article, we will guide you on how to plan your Western Trails tour to make the experience an unforgettable one.

Overview of the Western Trails Tour

The Western Trails tour takes you through captivating landscapes and breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies. The tour starts in Vancouver and ends in Calgary, covering approximately 1,200 km in four days. You will travel in a deluxe coach bus, accompanied by an experienced tour guide who will help you discover hidden gems and must-visit locations throughout the journey.

Itinerary Details

Here’s a detailed outline of what you can expect on each day of the tour:

Day 1: Vancouver to Kamloops via the Fraser Valley

The tour departs from Vancouver in the morning and travels through the pastoral Fraser Valley before ascending into the Telkwa Mountains. The first stop is the charming town of Hope, the location of many famous movies. After a brief stop, the bus continues on to Kamloops, where you will spend the night.

Day 2: Kamloops to Jasper National Park

Prepare for an exciting day as you enter Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The day starts with a scenic drive through Mount Robson Park, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. You will also get the opportunity to explore the beauty of the Athabasca Glacier with the Ice Explorer Tour, and stroll through the Glacier Skywalk. Day two ends with a comfortable overnight stay in Jasper.

Day 3: Jasper National Park to Banff National Park with a Visit to Lake Louise

Day three takes you through the magnificent Columbia Icefields Parkway. You will pass turquoise lakes, spectacular waterfalls, and serene mountain passes before arriving at Lake Louise. Here, you can enjoy an option to take the Banff Gondola, a thrilling ride that offers a stunning view of the Bow Valley. The day ends with an overnight stay in Banff.

Day 4: Banff National Park to Calgary

The final day of the tour takes you through the stunning Kananaskis Country, where you can take a walk by the river or hike one of the several trails, before ending the trip in Calgary.

Inclusions in the Tour

Here’s what you can expect to be included in the Western Trails tour:

• Four-day deluxe coach tour
• Three nights of hotel accommodation
• National Park Pass
• Optional activities: Ice Explorer Tour, Glacier Skywalk, and Banff Gondola
• Gratuities

Booking the Tour

If you’re interested in booking the Western Trails tour, you can book online via viator.com. Viator is a trusted and reliable website that offers a variety of travel experiences around the world. Book the Western Trails tour here.

Book Your Tour Now

The Western Trails tour is an excellent way to explore the Canadian Rockies and all that they have to offer. With the comfort of a deluxe coach and a knowledgeable tour guide, you can relax and enjoy the beauty of the scenery without the stresses of planning or navigating. By following our guide on how to plan your Western Trails tour, you can ensure that you get the best experience out of your journey. Plan your tour today, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions about Vancouver

1. What is Vancouver, and where is it located?

Vancouver is a coastal seaport city located in British Columbia, Canada. It is located on the west coast of Canada and is surrounded by water, mountains and parks. It is the largest city in BC and the eighth largest city in Canada.

2. What language is spoken in Vancouver?

The official languages in Vancouver are English and French. However, Vancouver is a diverse city, and people from different ethnicities speak different languages. You’ll find that there are many areas in Vancouver where people speak Mandarin, Cantonese, Punjabi and other languages.

3. What is the best time to visit Vancouver?

The best time to visit Vancouver is from March to May or from September to November. During these months, the weather is mild, and the hotels are quieter than during the peak summer season. However, if you’re into skiing or winter sports, Winter and early Spring seasons are ideal for you.

4. What are the best places to visit in Vancouver?

There are several places to visit in Vancouver, including Stanley Park, Granville Island, Capilano Suspension Bridge, and many more. Stanley Park is the largest park in Vancouver, covering 1000 acres; it houses over 500,000 old-growth trees, 8 km of trails, and even a seawall by the water. Granville Island is home to the city’s famous Public Market as well as many shops and restaurants. Capilano Suspension Bridge is a popular tourist attraction that crosses the Capilano River and offers scenic views of the waterfalls and the canyon below.

5. What activities can I do in Vancouver?

Vancouver offers an array of activities to do, including hiking, biking, skiing, and sightseeing. You can hike and bike the many trails in Stanley Park, go skiing or snowboarding in the nearby mountains, or take a scenic walk along the Seawall Promenade. There are also several museums, art galleries, and other cultural activities in the city.

6. What is the climate like in Vancouver?

Vancouver has a mild, oceanic climate that is influenced by the nearby Pacific Ocean. The average temperature in the summer months (June to August) is around 22°C (71°F); however, it can get much warmer on some days. The winter months can be rainy, but temperatures rarely drop below freezing.

7. What is Vancouver known for?

Vancouver is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the nearby mountains and ocean. It is also known for its great outdoors activities, such as skiing, hiking, and biking. Besides that, Vancouver has a rich cultural diversity, fine dining options, vibrant art and music scene, and is one of the world’s most liveable cities.

8. How safe is Vancouver?

Vancouver is generally a safe city to visit, but as with any city, there are some areas that can be more dangerous than others, particularly at night. It is always best to take precautions when traveling in big cities, such as avoiding quiet streets, staying in groups, and keeping your valuables close by.

9. What is the transportation system like in Vancouver?

Vancouver has an efficient public transportation system, including buses, trains, and ferries. The trains are known as the SkyTrain, and they connect the different neighborhoods in and around the city. There is also a bus network that covers the entire city, allowing you to explore Vancouver’s best attractions without your own car. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.

10. What is the local currency used in Vancouver?

The local currency used in Vancouver, Canada is the Canadian dollar. You can exchange your home currency at many exchange offices, banks, and casinos in the city. And several ATMs are available all around the city for cash withdrawals.

11. What is the night-life scene like in Vancouver?

Vancouver has a diverse and vibrant night-life scene, with something for everyone. You will find easy-going bars, nightclubs, live music venues, comedy shows and much more. Some famous night-life spots such as Granville St, Gastown, and Yaletown among many others.

12. What are the best local foods to try in Vancouver?

Vancouver is known for its diverse cuisine and seafood culture. There are various types of Pacific seafood dishes to try, such as the famous seafood chowder, Sockeye salmon, Crab, Prawns, etc. You should also try the local delicacies such as Japadog (Japanese-style hot dogs), Poutine, Nanaimo Bars, and Maple Syrup. There are numerous restaurants and food carts in the city that cater to foodies of all tastes. In conclusion, Vancouver is a stunning city to visit that offers something for everyone. Whether you want to enjoy the outdoors or explore the local culture and cuisine, Vancouver will not disappoint. Follow these tips and make the most out of your trip to this beautiful city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Vancouver

Vancouver is a beautiful city located in Western Canada. With its mountains, water, and endless attractions, it’s no wonder why tourists flock to this city throughout the year. If you’re planning a trip to Vancouver, here’s a guide on how to spend your time and make the most out of your visit.

1. Visit Stanley Park

Stanley Park is considered one of the most beautiful parks in the world. It’s located on the western edge of downtown Vancouver and offers stunning views of the city skyline, the mountains, and the ocean. The park is over 400 hectares in size and has over 27 kilometers of trails to explore. You can rent a bike or walk around the seawall, visit the famous totem poles or the Vancouver Aquarium, and enjoy a picnic with your family and friends.

2. Explore Granville Island

Granville Island is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. It’s a small island in the middle of Vancouver and is home to numerous attractions such as the Public Market, artisan studios, restaurants, and theaters. You can wander through the Public Market and sample local foods, shop for unique gifts, and watch street performers. Granville Island is also home to numerous water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and harbor tours.

3. Go to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park

The Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a must-see attraction in Vancouver. The park offers visitors the chance to walk across a suspension bridge that’s 140 meters long and 70 meters above the Capilano River. You can also explore the Treetops Adventure and the Cliffwalk. There are numerous photo opportunities throughout the park, and it’s a great place to learn about the history and culture of the area.

4. Visit the Museum of Anthropology

The Museum of Anthropology is located at the University of British Columbia and is one of the best museums in Vancouver. The museum has over 500,000 artifacts from around the world, including a massive collection of Indigenous art from the Pacific Northwest Coast. You can take a guided tour or explore the museum on your own. The Museum of Anthropology is a great place to learn about the history and culture of British Columbia and Canada.

5. Take a stroll through Gastown

Gastown is a historic neighborhood in Vancouver that’s known for its cobblestone streets, Victorian architecture, and boutique shops. You can take a guided walking tour of the area or explore on your own. Gastown is also home to the famous steam clock, which plays a tune every 15 minutes. There are numerous restaurants and cafes in Gastown, making it a great place to grab a bite to eat while exploring the area.

6. Visit the Vancouver Lookout

The Vancouver Lookout is a tower located in downtown Vancouver that offers panoramic views of the city. The tower is 168 meters high and has an observation deck that provides 360-degree views of the city skyline, mountains, and ocean. You can take the glass elevator up to the observation deck and spend as much time as you like taking pictures and admiring the scenery.

7. Go skiing or snowboarding at Whistler

Whistler is a world-renowned ski resort located about two hours north of Vancouver. The resort has over 200 marked ski runs, numerous restaurants, shops, and hotels. If you’re into skiing or snowboarding, Whistler is the place to be. The resort also offers other winter activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and dog sledding.

8. Visit the Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden

The Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden is located in the heart of Vancouver’s Chinatown. The garden is designed in the Ming Dynasty-style and is considered one of the most authentic Chinese gardens outside of China. You can take a guided tour or explore the garden on your own. There are numerous photo opportunities throughout the garden, and it’s a great place to relax and unwind.

9. Take a trip to the North Shore

The North Shore is located across the Burrard Inlet from downtown Vancouver and is home to numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. You can visit the famous Capilano Suspension Bridge Park or go skiing at Grouse Mountain. The North Shore is also home to numerous parks and beaches, making it a great place to take a break from the city and enjoy the outdoors.

10. Enjoy the nightlife

Vancouver has a thriving nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from. You can head to the Granville Entertainment District or Yaletown for a night out. There are also numerous theaters and music venues, making Vancouver a great place to catch a show or a concert. In conclusion, Vancouver is a beautiful city with numerous attractions and activities to explore. Whether you’re into nature, history, or sports, Vancouver has something for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip and make the most out of your visit.