culture images : awl images ; getty ; rocky mountaineer
1VANCOUVER
Vancouver is the idyllic starting location for the Rocky Mountaineer ’ s First Passage to the West experience , a historic rail route that connects Canada from East to West . In the city — British Columbia ’ s most populous and Canada ’ s third largest — passengers can find urban tranquility at Dr . Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden , sample craft beer in hip East Vancouver or view the extensive First Nations collections at the Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia . And there ’ s no need to haul luggage around , as the Rocky Mountaineer staff deliver every item from each hotel .
2KAMLOOPS
Situated within the mountainous Thompson Valley at the intersection of the North and South Thompson Rivers in B . C .’ s interior , Kamloops makes the perfect second stopover . Here , art-lovers can appreciate more than 30 outdoor murals and 10 galleries , while outdoor enthusiasts can explore numerous freshwater lakes . The sunset views at Riverside Park are particularly special . To sample regional specialties , head to Brownstone Restaurant for dishes like bacon-wrapped elk meatloaf . Be sure to visit Monte Creek Winery or Privato Vineyard and Winery for al fresco beverages with panoramic nature views .
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BANFF
Banff is the perfect base for exploring towering peaks , glistening glaciers , alpine lakes and the boreal wilderness of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Park . The final stop on the First Passage to the West , it has the cozy ambiance of a ski resort , with a walkable downtown full of restaurants and charming souvenir shops . But it ’ s the national park , located right on its doorstep , that ’ s the main draw . Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 , activities here include lake and waterfall tours , icefield adventures , a Banff Gondola experience and hot springs soaks . The mineral-rich , geothermal waters of Banff Upper Hot Springs are a particular favorite among visitors and locals .
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