Fall Canada & Alaska Escorted Group Tour 2012
1 Aug - 31 Aug 2012
Trip Code: GCH2
Fall is the season of colour, and we’ll be heading north to see the changing palate. As ‘termination dust’ falls over the mountains, and the animals are thickening up their winter coats, we’ll be travelling across the landscape. The fall tour travels north through British Columbia, the Canadian Rockies, and the Inside Passage to the Alaska interior and southern coast before returning to Vancouver Island.
We also do a shorter version of this trip, Fall West Canada & Inside Passage group tour. |
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Vancouver
With its variety of culinary options, outdoor activities and multicultural experiences, Vancouver is considered one of the best cities to live. Skyscrapers rise from the downtown skyline and not far out of town is the vast British Columbia wilderness. Attractions include walks in Stanley Park, Chinatown, Robson Street, Gastown and the waterfront.
Kamloops
Kamloops is a typical Canadian town of 83,000, set in wilderness, but with all the amenities of a modern city. There is urban entertainment with an art gallery, a professional theatre company and two museums. Other activities include walking nature trails, fishing, kayaking or day trip up to the mountain village of Sun Peaks.
Rocky Mountaineer, First Passage to the West
The Rocky Mountaineer takes you on a two day journey from Vancouver to Banff. On the first day of the tour you will travel from the coastal city of Vancouver to the inland town of Kamloops. There are dramatic changes in scenery from the pristine forests of the Northwest to an arid desert-like interior.
Banff
Banff is the perfect base for exploring the snow capped mountains, waterfalls, glaciers, hot springs and alpine meadows which can be found in Banff National Park. Nearby attractions include: Bow Falls, Banff Gondola, Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Johnston Canyon and Sunshine Meadows.
Columbia Icefield Glacier Experience
Largest of all icefields in the Canadian Rockies, the Columbia Icefield is guarded by 11 of the Rockies’ 22 highest peaks. We will also take an Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca glacier to see its raw beauty.
Jasper
Jasper is situated deep in the Alberta Rockies, mountain peaks can be seen on the horizon in every direction. Local attractions are Maligne Lake, the Jasper Tramway, Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Falls, Miette Hotsprings, golf at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and lovely alpine walks. Jasper has a lot to offer for both summer and winter travellers.
Prince George
Prince George is a modern city surrounded by natural beauty. It is the regional center for health, education and government services. The town has over 120 parks and museums. Ask a local guide to point out any wild edible fruit in season like huckleberries or gooseberries.
VIA Rail's Skeena
Depart on a two day excursion from Prince Rupert to Jasper with an overnight stay in Prince George. This superbly restored 1950’s ‘Skeena’ train also travels in the opposite direction. On this scenic journey you will travel through national and provincial parks, lumber camps and pass beautiful alpine streams and lakes.
Prince Rupert
Prince Rupert is located at the end of the Yellowhead Highway at the mouth of the Skeena River. A bustling port city, Prince Rupert is the cultural centre of the First Nations People. You will find totem poles scattered throughout parks in the city. The city’s heritage has been preserved at the Cow Bay waterfront area, built in 1905.
Wrangell
Wrangell is one of the most interesting small towns on the Inside Passage. The town began as a Tlingit trading post and became the site of a Russian fort built in 1834. The town has a relaxed feel that allows visitors to wander comfortably and converse with locals from the town. Local attractions are tours to the Stikine River, LeConte Glacier, Petersburg, a number of short walks and AnAn Bear Observatory.
AnAn Bear Sanctuary
Travel by jet boat to Anan Bear Sanctuary, which is located 35 miles southeast from the town of Wrangell. After arriving at Anan Island you will be guided on an informative 15 minute walk, learning about local and native history on your way to the observation decks. This tour is available from early July through until the end of the August when the salmon run finishes for the year
Stikine River Wilderness Tour
Stikine means Great River in Tlingit and as the fastest free flowing river in North America it holds up to its reputation. The mouth of the river is located near Wrangell and is fed by over 100 glaciers as it stretches all the way to British Columbia.
Inside Passage on Alaska Marine Highway System
Local residents use the Alaska Marine Highway System ferries (AMHS) as means of transportation between the towns along the Inside Passage. The ferries can navigate their way through narrow stretches of the Inside Passage that cannot be accessed by larger cruise ships.
Haines
Originally a Russian and Native American trading post, this town provides beautiful views of the Chilkat Mountains and Lynn Canal, North America’s deepest fjord. With only a few small cruise ships docking each summer, Haines has retained its local identity as a quiet South East Alaskan town. Walk the un-crowded streets, explore the shops and quiet cafes, or purchase a bear watching tour or river float trip from local guides. There are regular water taxi services to the nearby town of Skagway.
Skagway
Skagwayis situated at the head of the Lynn Canal and is surrounded by glacier capped mountains. The area experienced crowds of people during the summer of 1898 in search of Klondike gold. Today it remains one of the best preserved gold rush towns in America. Stroll along wooden boardwalks past colorful false fronted buildings built over 100 years ago. Attractions are a ride on the White Pass & Yukon Railway, a visit to the ghost town of Dyea, or take a day trip to the nearby town of Haines.
White Pass Rail Summit Excursion
This historic route, built during the height of the Klondike Gold Rush, is known as the ‘Scenic Railway of the World’. With a lot of determination, 450 tonnes of explosives and the work of tens of thousands of men the railway was built. Out of the one hundred thousand people that headed to the Klondike gold fields only thirty to forty thousand made it all the way. A few hundred of those who found gold actually became rich.
Whitehorse
Located on the banks of the Yukon River, Whitehorse is the largest city in the Yukon Territory, as well as the capital. The city can be easily explored by foot. Walking along the banks of the Yukon River read interpretive signs about the Klondike Gold Rush and visit the restored SS Klondike sternwheeler.
Dawson City
More than one hundred years ago, Dawson City was the center of “the largest gold rush the world has ever known”. Today it is one of the best preserved frontier towns in Canada. Wandering the dirt streets and boardwalks, past historic sites and brightly colored wooden buildings gives you a glimpse of the past. Attractions are the Midnight Dome, Dredge #4, Discovery Claim, Diamond Tooth Gertie’s and Author’s Corner with Jack London’s cabin.
Gold Dredge No. 4
Dredge No. 4 was built in 1912 for the Canadian Klondike Mining Company in Dawson City, and was the largest wooden hulled bucket lined dredge in North America. It worked in the Klondike Valley on the "Boyle Concession" until 1940 and then was relocated to Bonanza Creek and worked this valley until 1959.
Fairbanks
Fairbanks was originally a trading post when gold was found in 1902. Today the city is a blend of old and new; modern shopping strips stand beside log cabins and historic buildings. A popular highlight is the Riverboat Discover; a sternwheeler ride down the Tanana River and Eldorado Gold Mine. During certain months, Fairbanks has some of the best northern lights viewing in the world.
Riverboat Discovery Tour
The ‘Riverboat Discovery’ tour provides an interesting insight into various aspects of Alaskan rural life such as reindeer herding, dog sledding and fishing. The tour includes a visit to an Athabascan Native Village where you will learn about their traditional way of life.
Denali Tundra Wilderness Tour
This 7-8 hour narrated tour takes you approximately 53 miles into the heart of Denali National Park. Denali National Park has a spectacular centerpiece, Mt McKinley or Denali (Koyukon Athabaskan), the highest mountain in North America. Clear views of this impressive mountain are seldom seen so it’s a special occasion when it comes out on display.
Anchorage
Anchorage began as a tent city during the building of the Alaska Railroad in 1914. It is located in a valley at the base of the Chugach Mountains. During the summer months, the streets are filled with brightly coloured hanging flower baskets.
Victoria
Victoria is a delightful harbour side town. The nearby Butchart Gardens are the best known gardens in western Canada. Thousands of flowers are displayed in the Sunken, Rose, Japanese and Italian theme gardens. Other attractions include: Inner Harbour, Royal British Columbia Museum, historic Empress Hotel, Maritime Museum and Market Square, a restored 19th-century courtyard surrounded by a jumble of shops, restaurants, and offices on three floors.
Victoria & Butchart Gardens Tour
On the drive from downtown Victoria to the Butchart Gardens we pass by homes, gardens and points of historic interest. Stroll through gardens linked by spacious lawns, streams and lily ponds. Seasonal outdoor afternoon performances and the spectacular Sunken Garden highlight this tour.
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Wed
1
Aug
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VancouverArrival into Vancouver. Renaissance Vancouver Harbourside Hotel (2 nights) |
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Thu
2
Aug
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Vancouver - City TourThis morning we take a sightseeing tour of Vancouver. The afternoon is free to explore the city. |
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Fri
3
Aug
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Vancouver to Kamloops on Rocky MountaineerEarly this morning we commence our two day Rocky Mountaineer rail excursion. Hotel assigned by Rocky Mountaineer (1 night) Meals included:
Breakfast
Lunch
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Sat
4
Aug
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Kamloops to Banff on Rocky MountaineerWe re-board the Rocky Mountaineer train in the morning and head into The Rocky Mountains on our journey to Banff. Banff Park Lodge (2 nights) Meals included:
Breakfast
Lunch
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Sun
5
Aug
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BanffDay at leisure to explore the attractions of Banff. |
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Mon
6
Aug
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Banff to Jasper on Icefields ParkwayToday we tour the spectacular Icefields Parkway. We stop at several sights including Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefield Centre where we take an Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier. Marmot Lodge (2 nights) |
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Tue
7
Aug
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JasperOur day is free to explore this picturesque alpine town. |
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Wed
8
Aug
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Jasper to Prince GeorgeWe cross the Yellowhead Pass on the train to Prince George. On clear days there are excellent views of Mt. Robson the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Ramada Inn (1 night) Meals included:
Lunch
Dinner
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Thu
9
Aug
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Prince George to Prince Rupert on VIA RailThis morning we board VIA Rail’s Skeena service for the journey to the port town of Prince Rupert. We will be travelling in touring class, which includes all meals and access to the Park car. Pacific Inn (2 nights) Meals included:
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
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Fri
10
Aug
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Prince RupertDay at leisure. |
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Sat
11
Aug
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Prince Rupert to WrangellIn the morning we board an Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) ferry for our voyage to Wrangell. Stikine Inn (4 nights) |
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Sun
12
Aug
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Wrangell - AnAn Bear Viewing TourToday we tour to AnAn Bear Sanctuary. Meals included:
Breakfast
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Mon
13
Aug
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Wrangell - Stikine River Wilderness TourThis morning we take a boat ride, this time through the lower reaches of the Stikine River. Meals included:
Breakfast
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Tue
14
Aug
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WrangellDay at leisure to explore the town. Meals included:
Breakfast
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Wed
15
Aug
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Wrangell to Inside PassageWe board our AMHS ferry this morning for the overnight journey to Haines. On board cabin with private facilities (1 night) Meals included:
Breakfast
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Thu
16
Aug
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Inside Passage to HainesWe have an early morning arrival into Haines, giving us time to explore this beautiful town. Captains Choice (2 nights) |
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Fri
17
Aug
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Haines - White Pass & Yukon RailroadWe travel by water taxi to Skagway and explore this well preserved frontier town before boarding the famous White Pass & Yukon Railroad for the journey through to the White Pass Summit and back. We return to Haines by water taxi in the afternoon. |
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Sat
18
Aug
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Haines to WhitehorseWe travel the scenic Haines Hwy today to Haines Junction, Yukon, where we join the Alaska Highway to Whitehorse. Best Western Gold Rush Inn (1 night) |
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Sun
19
Aug
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Whitehorse to Dawson CityWe drive north along the Klondike Highway through ranchlands, vast lakes and the beautiful expanses of the Yukon River Valley to Dawson City which was the heart of the Klondike Goldrush. Eldorado Hotel (2 nights) |
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Mon
20
Aug
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Dawson City - Gold Dredge No. 4May Dawson City - Gold Dredge #4 This morning we visit Gold Dredge #4 and the Discovery Claim, home to the richest placer gold strike in history. The remainder of the day is free to explore the town which has been declared a national historic site. |
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Tue
21
Aug
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Dawson City to FairbanksToday we drive along the spectacular ‘Top of the World’ and Alaska Highways en-route to Fairbanks. Along the way we pass through Chicken, Tok and Rika’s Roadhouse. Bridgewater Hotel (2 nights) |
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Wed
22
Aug
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Fairbanks - Riverboat Discovery CruiseIn the morning we board the ‘Riverboat Discovery’ for a cruise down the lovely Chena River. The afternoon is free to explore the town. |
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Thu
23
Aug
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Fairbanks to DenaliWe board our luxury motor coach this morning and drive through the heart of Alaska to Denali National Park. The afternoon is free to explore the Park. Denali Grizzly Resort (2 nights) |
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Fri
24
Aug
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Denali - Tundra Wilderness TourToday we join the Tundra Wilderness Tour taking us into the Denali National Park and Preserve. Meals included:
Breakfast
Lunch
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Sat
25
Aug
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Denali to AnchorageThis morning we re- join the coach for the drive on the Parks Highway to Anchorage. Clarion Suites (2 nights) Meals included:
Breakfast
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Sun
26
Aug
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AnchorageFull day at leisure. Meals included:
Breakfast
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Mon
27
Aug
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Anchorage to VictoriaToday we fly with Alaska Airlines to Seattle, and then to Victoria. Executive House (2 nights) Meals included:
Breakfast
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Tue
28
Aug
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Victoria - Butchart Gardens ExcursionWe travel today to Vancouver Island’s biggest attractions, Butchart Gardens. We’ll have time to relax and truly enjoy this floral display. |
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Wed
29
Aug
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Victoria to VancouverToday we transfer from Victoria to Vancouver International Airport and join our departing flights. If not departing Vancouver on the scheduled group flights, please do not book a flight earlier than 7pm. |
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Thu
30
Aug
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In flight |
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Fri
31
Aug
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Arrive back in Australia |
Tour Notes & Options
Prices based on twin share accommodation, please contact us for single pricing.
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