Canadian Rockies and Alaska
by Land & Sea

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia is a beautiful and historic city located on the southeastern tip of Vancouver Island. Founded in 1843 as a Hudson's Bay Company fort, Victoria quickly grew into a prosperous city and became the capital of the British colony of Vancouver Island in 1866. Today, Victoria is a popular tourist destination known for its mild climate, Victorian architecture, and beautiful natural setting.

While there are many things to see and do in Victoria, some of the most popular attractions include the Royal BC Museum, the Butchart Gardens, and Beacon Hill Park. Visitors can also take a short ferry ride to nearby Vancouver or take a day trip to the nearby Gulf Islands.

No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to love in Victoria, British Columbia.

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia is a beautiful and historic city located on the southeastern tip of Vancouver Island. Founded in 1843 as a Hudson's Bay Company fort, Victoria quickly grew into a prosperous city and became the capital of the British colony of Vancouver Island in 1866. Today, Victoria is a popular tourist destination known for its mild climate, Victorian architecture, and beautiful natural setting.

While there are many things to see and do in Victoria, some of the most popular attractions include the Royal BC Museum, the Butchart Gardens, and Beacon Hill Park. Visitors can also take a short ferry ride to nearby Vancouver or take a day trip to the nearby Gulf Islands.

No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to love in Victoria, British Columbia.

Butchart Gardens, British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria, British Columbia is a beautiful and historic city located on the southeastern tip of Vancouver Island. Founded in 1843 as a Hudson's Bay Company fort, Victoria quickly grew into a prosperous city and became the capital of the British colony of Vancouver Island in 1866. Today, Victoria is a popular tourist destination known for its mild climate, Victorian architecture, and beautiful natural setting.

While there are many things to see and do in Victoria, some of the most popular attractions include the Royal BC Museum, the Butchart Gardens, and Beacon Hill Park. Visitors can also take a short ferry ride to nearby Vancouver or take a day trip to the nearby Gulf Islands.

No matter what your interests are, you're sure to find something to love in Victoria, British Columbia.

Whistler, British Columbia

Whistler, British Columbia

Whistler, British Columbia

Kelowna, British Columbia

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Banff, Banff National Park, Alberta

Banff, Banff National Park, Alberta

Banff, Banff National Park, Alberta

Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Alberta

Rocky Mountaineer Train Journey

Kamloops, British Columbia

Rocky Mountaineer Train Journey

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is bustling, vibrant and diverse.
This gem on Canada's west coast boasts the perfect combination of
wild natural beauty and modern conveniences. Its spectacular views
and awesome cityscapes are a huge lure not only for visitors but
also for big productions, and it's even been nicknamed Hollywood
North for its ever-present film crews.

Less than a century ago, Vancouver was
barely more than a town. Today, it's Canada's third largest city
and more than two million people call it home. The shiny futuristic
towers of Yaletown and the downtown core contrast dramatically with
the snow-capped mountain backdrop, making for postcard-pretty
scenes.

Approximately the same size as the downtown
area, the city's green heart is Canada's largest city park, Stanley
Park, covering hundreds of acres filled with lush forest and
crystal clear lakes. Visitors can wander the sea wall along its
exterior, catch a free trolley bus tour, enjoy a horse-drawn
carriage ride or visit the Vancouver Aquarium housed within the
park.

The city's past is preserved in historic
Gastown with its cobblestone streets, famous steam-powered clock
and quaint atmosphere. Neighbouring Chinatown, with its weekly
market, Dr Sun Yat-Sen classical Chinese gardens and intriguing
restaurants add an exotic flair. For some retail therapy or
celebrity spotting, there is always the trendy Robson Street.

During the winter months, snow sports are
the order of the day on nearby Grouse Mountain. It's perfect for
skiing and snowboarding, although the city itself gets more rain
than snow. Vancouver's ethnic diversity and ideal combination of
mountains, sea and city offer visitors an endless supply of things
to see and do, no matter the budget.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is bustling, vibrant and diverse.
This gem on Canada's west coast boasts the perfect combination of
wild natural beauty and modern conveniences. Its spectacular views
and awesome cityscapes are a huge lure not only for visitors but
also for big productions, and it's even been nicknamed Hollywood
North for its ever-present film crews.

Less than a century ago, Vancouver was
barely more than a town. Today, it's Canada's third largest city
and more than two million people call it home. The shiny futuristic
towers of Yaletown and the downtown core contrast dramatically with
the snow-capped mountain backdrop, making for postcard-pretty
scenes.

Approximately the same size as the downtown
area, the city's green heart is Canada's largest city park, Stanley
Park, covering hundreds of acres filled with lush forest and
crystal clear lakes. Visitors can wander the sea wall along its
exterior, catch a free trolley bus tour, enjoy a horse-drawn
carriage ride or visit the Vancouver Aquarium housed within the
park.

The city's past is preserved in historic
Gastown with its cobblestone streets, famous steam-powered clock
and quaint atmosphere. Neighbouring Chinatown, with its weekly
market, Dr Sun Yat-Sen classical Chinese gardens and intriguing
restaurants add an exotic flair. For some retail therapy or
celebrity spotting, there is always the trendy Robson Street.

During the winter months, snow sports are
the order of the day on nearby Grouse Mountain. It's perfect for
skiing and snowboarding, although the city itself gets more rain
than snow. Vancouver's ethnic diversity and ideal combination of
mountains, sea and city offer visitors an endless supply of things
to see and do, no matter the budget.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is bustling, vibrant and diverse.
This gem on Canada's west coast boasts the perfect combination of
wild natural beauty and modern conveniences. Its spectacular views
and awesome cityscapes are a huge lure not only for visitors but
also for big productions, and it's even been nicknamed Hollywood
North for its ever-present film crews.

Less than a century ago, Vancouver was
barely more than a town. Today, it's Canada's third largest city
and more than two million people call it home. The shiny futuristic
towers of Yaletown and the downtown core contrast dramatically with
the snow-capped mountain backdrop, making for postcard-pretty
scenes.

Approximately the same size as the downtown
area, the city's green heart is Canada's largest city park, Stanley
Park, covering hundreds of acres filled with lush forest and
crystal clear lakes. Visitors can wander the sea wall along its
exterior, catch a free trolley bus tour, enjoy a horse-drawn
carriage ride or visit the Vancouver Aquarium housed within the
park.

The city's past is preserved in historic
Gastown with its cobblestone streets, famous steam-powered clock
and quaint atmosphere. Neighbouring Chinatown, with its weekly
market, Dr Sun Yat-Sen classical Chinese gardens and intriguing
restaurants add an exotic flair. For some retail therapy or
celebrity spotting, there is always the trendy Robson Street.

During the winter months, snow sports are
the order of the day on nearby Grouse Mountain. It's perfect for
skiing and snowboarding, although the city itself gets more rain
than snow. Vancouver's ethnic diversity and ideal combination of
mountains, sea and city offer visitors an endless supply of things
to see and do, no matter the budget.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver is bustling, vibrant and diverse.
This gem on Canada's west coast boasts the perfect combination of
wild natural beauty and modern conveniences. Its spectacular views
and awesome cityscapes are a huge lure not only for visitors but
also for big productions, and it's even been nicknamed Hollywood
North for its ever-present film crews.

Less than a century ago, Vancouver was
barely more than a town. Today, it's Canada's third largest city
and more than two million people call it home. The shiny futuristic
towers of Yaletown and the downtown core contrast dramatically with
the snow-capped mountain backdrop, making for postcard-pretty
scenes.

Approximately the same size as the downtown
area, the city's green heart is Canada's largest city park, Stanley
Park, covering hundreds of acres filled with lush forest and
crystal clear lakes. Visitors can wander the sea wall along its
exterior, catch a free trolley bus tour, enjoy a horse-drawn
carriage ride or visit the Vancouver Aquarium housed within the
park.

The city's past is preserved in historic
Gastown with its cobblestone streets, famous steam-powered clock
and quaint atmosphere. Neighbouring Chinatown, with its weekly
market, Dr Sun Yat-Sen classical Chinese gardens and intriguing
restaurants add an exotic flair. For some retail therapy or
celebrity spotting, there is always the trendy Robson Street.

During the winter months, snow sports are
the order of the day on nearby Grouse Mountain. It's perfect for
skiing and snowboarding, although the city itself gets more rain
than snow. Vancouver's ethnic diversity and ideal combination of
mountains, sea and city offer visitors an endless supply of things
to see and do, no matter the budget.

Ketchikan, Alaska

The 'salmon capital of the world' started as a summer fish camp
on the shores of Ketchikan Creek used by the Tlingit natives, and
slowly became a major salmon canning centre. Native Inuit heritage
plays a large role in the touristic appeal of Ketchikan, which
boasts the largest collection of totem poles in the world in the
Ketchikan Totem Bight State Historical Park, Saxman Native Village
and the Totem Heritage Center Museum. Ketchikan has more cultural
sightseeing opportunities than most cities and towns in Alaska,
making it the perfect Alaskan getaway for those keen to experience
indigenous culture as well as the stunning natural landscapes of
Alaska.

Rustic Creek Street, with its picturesque wooden boardwalks and
stilts, was once the town's red light district, and today the
houses have been converted into restaurants, shops and galleries.
Ketchikan is located on Revillagigedo Island, 235 miles (378km)
south of Juneau. If staying in the capital, Ketchikan is a popular
excursion from the city; in fact, the quaint old town feels much
more authentic and traditional than the larger city. The town is a
popular cruise destination and is the starting point for most
Inside Passage tours. Excursions into the surrounding wilderness
include air or boat trips to nearby Misty Fjords, an area of
pristine, spectacular scenery with soaring cliffs, waterfalls,
lakes and glaciers.

Juneau, Alaska

Accessible only by sea or air, Alaska's 'Gateway to the
Glaciers' is the state's scenic capital, situated among spectacular
mountains on the shores of the Gastineau Channel. The holiday
destination of Juneau is, however, not as wild as one might expect
of such a remote destination. It affords all the pleasures of a
large city, while also offering an abundance of activities and
natural escapes for outdoor enthusiasts in its backyard. Although
the city is not without appeal and is a popular travel hub and port
of call for cruises, it is undoubtedly the natural setting that
attracts tourists rather than the urban sightseeing
opportunities.

In 1880 the city swarmed with gold prospectors, but today it is
the cruise ship passengers who pack the streets every summer,
enjoying the shopping, dining and picturesque surroundings.
Mendenhall Glacier, Alaska's most visited glacier due to its easy
access and proximity to the city, is a highly worthwhile
attraction. Glacier Bay National Park is one of the country's more
dramatic regions and is also accessible from Juneau, by boat or
plane. Helicopter rides, fishing, whale-watching, hiking and
kayaking are popular activities through which to fully appreciate
the vast wilderness surrounding Juneau.

Skagway, Alaska

The holiday destination of Skagway, at the northernmost point of
the Inside Passage, is the main port of call for cruise ships, and
was the trading post serving the Klondike Gold Rush in 1897. Within
three months, a tent and shack town of 20,000 people had sprung up
and throngs of hopeful gold-seekers stampeded the town, the
jumping-off point for the 500-mile (805km) trek to the goldfields
in the Yukon. Skagway's rapid growth brought in its wake disease
and violence, and it was notorious for lawless characters.

Today much of Skagway town lies within the Klondike Gold Rush
National Historic Park, which includes an excellent Visitor
Information Centre offering fascinating exhibits and a film on the
Gold Rush days. The heart of Skagway is the historic district where
the wooden boardwalks lining the restored buildings, false-fronted
shops and saloons, and the original appearance of many of the
houses, all enhance the character of a town rich in Gold Rush
history. On holiday in Skagway, it is also possible to follow in
the footsteps of the Klondike gold seekers along the famous 33-mile
(53km) Chilkoot Trail, literally an outdoor museum strewn with
reminders of the past, where abandoned pick axes, shovels and old
supplies can be found along the way.

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska

Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve, located in the state of Alaska, is a stunning destination that showcases the natural splendor and immense beauty of glaciers. Spanning over 3.3 million acres, this national park offers visitors a chance to witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of towering ice formations, rugged mountain ranges, pristine fjords, and abundant wildlife.

One of the main highlights of Glacier Bay is, of course, its glaciers. The park is home to over a dozen glaciers, including the famous Margerie Glacier and the Johns Hopkins Glacier. These massive ice formations are a sight to behold, with their bright blue hues and towering walls of ice. Visitors can witness the mesmerizing calving of glaciers, where chunks of ice break off and crash into the sea, creating a thunderous sound and causing powerful waves.

Exploring Glacier Bay can be done in various ways. One popular option is to take a boat tour, which allows visitors to cruise through the bay while enjoying magnificent views of glaciers, mountains, and wildlife. Kayaking is also a popular activity, providing a more up-close and personal experience with the glaciers and allowing for a sense of solitude in the vast wilderness. Hiking trails are available for those who want to explore the park on foot, offering opportunities to witness breathtaking vistas and spot wildlife.

Wildlife is abundant in Glacier Bay, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. The waters of the bay are home to a variety of marine mammals, including humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, seals, and porpoises. Visitors may also spot bald eagles soaring overhead or perched on trees along the shoreline. The park is teeming with birdlife, with over 270 species recorded, including puffins, Arctic terns, and various species of gulls. Brown bears, mountain goats, and moose can also be seen wandering the park's rugged terrain.

For those interested in learning more about the natural and cultural history of Glacier Bay, the park provides numerous visitor centers and ranger-guided activities. The Glacier Bay Visitor Center, located near Bartlett Cove, offers exhibits on the park's geology, glaciology, and human history. Ranger-led programs and guided hikes are available, providing educational insights and opportunities to explore the park alongside knowledgeable experts.

In terms of accommodations, Glacier Bay offers a range of options. There are campgrounds available for those who prefer a more immersive outdoor experience, providing a chance to sleep under the starry Alaskan sky. For those seeking more comfort, lodges and cabins can be found in nearby Gustavus or on the park's premises. These accommodations allow visitors to relax and rejuvenate after a day of exploration, while still being surrounded by the park's natural beauty.

It is worth noting that due to the remote location and unpredictable weather, visiting Glacier Bay requires careful planning. The peak visitor season is during the summer months, from May to September, when the park is accessible and weather conditions are relatively favorable. It is essential to come prepared with appropriate clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly, even in the summer.

In conclusion, Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve in Alaska is a true natural wonder that offers visitors a chance to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of glaciers, mountains, fjords, and wildlife. With its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and various recreational activities, this destination is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Whether exploring by boat, kayak, or foot, visitors will be captivated by the breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences that Glacier Bay has to offer.

College Fjord, Alaska

College Fjord in the northern sector of Prince William Sound, is considered one of the most scenic fjords in the world with spectacular glacier viewing. . There are over a dozen major glaciers in the fjord, all surrounded by rugged snow-capped mountains. It is possible from one point to see eight glaciers at once. College Fjord was discovered in 1899 during the Harriman Expedition. Edward Henry Herriman, a millionaire railroad tycoon, set sail with 125 other passengers and crew, including 23 of esteemed scientists from several Ivy League schools, to explore the fjords of Alaskan. The scientists named the glaciers in this fjord after their Ivy League alma maters and their sister schools. Those names include Amherst, Barnard, Bryn Mawr, Harvard, Smith, Vassar, and Yale. The glaciers of the northwest side feature names of women's colleges and those of the southeast side are names of men's colleges.

Anchorage, Alaska

Alaska's largest city is the hub of the state, and
its central position, comparatively mild temperatures and
outstanding transport system to and from the rest of the country,
have made it an important destination for travellers.

Perched on the edge of a vast beautiful wilderness,
Anchorage is encompassed in scenic splendour, surrounded by
mountains, forest, rivers and tundra; a short drive in any
direction offers an abundant variety of wilderness experiences.

The city started out in 1915 as a tented camp for the
workers on the Alaska Railroad, and with the later discovery of oil
at Prudhoe Bay and the construction of the trans-Alaska pipeline,
Anchorage's development was fast and furious. Today this sprawling
city is full of life, with an array of dining options, a thriving
music scene, theatres, and museums.

Its conservative, transient character is due in part
to the fact that many of its residents are from other parts of the
US, working for a few years and then moving on. The rest of the
population is made up of Alaskan indigenous peoples, oil workers,
gold seekers, loggers, and fishermen, together with the moose and
occasional bear that wander into town. As a cosmopolitan urban
area, it has similarities with other small American cities, but
still retains a uniquely Alaskan feel.

Talkeetna

Talkeetna

Denali National Park, Alaska

Denali National Park, Alaska

Denali National Park, Alaska

Denali National Park, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska

Fairbanks, Alaska