Lake Moraine
The Rocky Mountaineer train pulled out of the station in Jasper at exactly 8:30 Sunday morning, headed west and south for Kamloops as the two day train adventure began.
Ice Explorer
Preceding that, we had several eventful days as we headed north from Banff under the expert leadership of our driver guide, Norm, from Discover Banff Tours. His informative narrative and interesting stories greatly added to the days as he guided us.
After enjoying the natural wonders of Yoho National Park including the azure waters of Emerald and Moraine Lakes, the day ended at the famous Fairmont Chateau on the shores of Lake Louise.
The next day we continued north on the Icefields Parkway enjoying the spectacular scenery and arriving in time for the excursion on an Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier. We were permitted to step down onto the glacier ice, however the cold blustery wind soon drove us back to the relative warmth of the Explorer. The day ended in Jasper and we bade farewell to Norm.
Scene near Jasper
Saturday, the 24th, was spent enjoying the natural sights around Jasper with the chance to see a herd of elk and Rocky Mountain big horned sheep. John and Esther Bucher from Edmonton joined us and treated the group to dinner at a local restaurant.
Group picture with the Athabasca Glacier in the background
Sunday had an early start, as bags needed be out by 6:30 and the bus picked us up at 7:30 at the Marmot Lodge for transport to the train station. The first day on the train was a relaxing one with excellent service, beautiful scenery and delectable and abundant food. Rocky Mountaineer certainly spares no effort in pampering their guests.
— Dave Eshleman
