Afternoon: Independent arrivals in Banff. CHECK-IN: Available from 4:00 p.m.

Dinner: Enjoy casual dining at the hotel. Welcome dinner scheduled for 6:00 p.m.

Evening: ORIENTATION: Meet your group leader and fellow participants during an orientation to the program and Banff.

Lodging: Irwin's Mountain Inn

Meals Included: Dinner

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: LECTURE/FIELD TRIP: Discover the geological highlights of the Rockies with Ben Gadd, renowned naturalist and author of the ground-breaking Handbook of the Canadian Rockies. Following an introductory lecture, travel to Yoho National Park with commentary en route.

Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant in a picturesque mountain setting.

Afternoon: FIELD TRIP: Trail walk around Emerald Lake. Emerald Lake is another jewel of the Canadian Rockies, and is one of the few lakes with a trail all the way around it. Thanks to its position of the west side of the Great Divide in Yoho National Park, a 360 degree tour of Emerald yields up four very different environments: a huge avalanche path, the normal forest, a dry and dramatic alluvial fan and the towering trees of the coastal rainforest.

Dinner: Dinner at a local restaurant.

Evening: Enjoy a free evening to explore Banff.

Lodging: Irwin's Mountain Inn

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: FIELD TRIP & PRESENTATION: Icefields Parkway and Glaciers. Depart by coach for Jasper. En route, a local interpretive guide will tell you about the glaciers of the Icefields Parkway. Learn how the remnants of the last Ice Age left behind this magnificent landscape, and discover the flora and fauna of this mountainous region. Continuing north along the Icefields Parkway, considered one of the most scenic highways in the world, you will visit Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefield and the Athabasca Glacier and Falls. At the Columbia Icefield Interpretive Centre, you will learn all about this impressive geological feature. The Icefields are the largest accumulation of ice and snow in the Canadian Rockies, covering an area of nearly 125 square miles (325 square km) and straddling the Continental Divide with an average elevation of 25,480 square kilometers (9,800 square miles). The Icefields feed eight major glaciers, including the Athabasca, Dome and Stutfield glaciers, all of which you will see from the coach. The Icefields lie on the boundary between Banff and Jasper National Parks, and their melt waters flow to three of Canada's largest river systems and eventually to three oceans: the Pacific, Atlantic and Arctic. There is only one other such watershed in the world, and that is in Siberia.

Lunch: Boxed lunch en route.

Afternoon: Arrive in Jasper late afternoon; check into the hotel and freshen up before dinner. Jasper lies in the center of Jasper National Park, deep in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, and it is known around the world for its rugged beauty. It is also a renowned, world-class resort town that has many attractions, yet it retains its small-town feel. Its distance from large urban centers and its relatively intact ecology give you a real sense of the early days in the Rockies.

Dinner: Dinner at the hotel.

Evening: FREE EVENING to explore the area on your own or rest after a long day of travelling.

Lodging: Amethyst Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Note: Much of the Maligne Canyon walk is on rather smooth rock that, in summer, wet or dry, can be a little slippery. Participants are encouraged to wear shoes with treaded soles. The walk is approximately 1km (0.62 miles) with slight ups and downs. Participants should also be able to stand for short periods of time (approximately 10 minutes) during interpretation.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: FIELD TRIP & PRESENTATION: Jasper National Park. Depart by coach for a field trip in the nearby area, stopping at Pyramid Lake, Patricia Lake and Maligne Canyon (weather permitting). Your guide will provide commentary en route and discuss points of interest along the way. The Maligne Canyon trail is rich in natural history, with impressive geologic features and wildlife. Search for fossils and find out how this deep canyon formed during glacial ages and how Maligne Canyon may not be a true canyon! The tall pine covered forests of these wilderness areas are home to an abundance of mountain goats, elk, moose, and bears. Scenic trails let you explore the spectacular vantage points, flower meadows, and sapphire blue mountain lakes.

Lunch: Lunch at the hotel.

Afternoon: LECTURE: The History of Jasper. A local naturalist will deliver a lecture on the history of Jasper and Canada's National Parks. OPTIONAL EXCURSION: Jasper - Yellowhead Museum. Enjoy an optional excursion to the Jasper -Yellowhead Museum and Archives, where you can explore the history of the Jasper-Yellowhead corridor from its earliest visitors 10,000 years ago to the present day. The Historical Gallery includes exhibits on the fur trade, the pioneers, the railways, early tourism in Jasper National Park and the town of Jasper Spend some free time exploring the town on your own or relaxing at your hotel.

Dinner: Dinner at the hotel.

Evening: LECTURE: The Ecology of Jasper National Park. A local expert will deliver a lecture on the ecology of Jasper National Park. Learn about the local flora and fauna and get an in-depth look at some of the parks most interesting habitants.

Lodging: Amethyst Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Note: Today you will travel by train from Jasper to Kamloops – Redleaf Service. Take only your small overnight bag on the train with you (it will be stored under your seat or overhead) and ensure that you carry all medications on board with you. Pack what you will need for the two full days and one night. You will not have access to your large luggage during this time; it will be checked through to Vancouver. Small overnight bag not to exceed 23 cm x 92 cm x 46 cm or 9” x36” x18”.

Breakfast: Breakfast served at your seat on the train.

Morning: Depart for the train station and board the Rocky Mountaineer, Red Leaf Service, bound for Kamloops. Train attendants will provide interpretive commentary as you marvel at the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains and the fertile farmland of the Fraser Valley. As the surrounding scenery unfolds, so will the commentary about the changing landscape and the interplay of geology, glacial history, ecology and human history that has shaped this diverse and beautiful land. Hear about the history and development of the Canadian Pacific Railway, including the travails of building the line through the Rocky Mountains. NOTE: Take only your small overnight bag on the train with you (it will be stored under your seat or overhead) and ensure that you carry all medications on board with you. Your large bag will be checked through to Vancouver. RedLeaf Service Features: Group block seating in roomy reclining seats in air-conditioned comfort - Large picture windows for viewing the dramatic landscape - Service and onboard commentary by Rocky Mountaineer attendant - A selection of chilled breakfasts, lunches, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages served at your seat - Spirits, fine wines and a selection of beer available at your own expense - One night moderate accommodation in Kamloops - Commemorative RedLeaf pin

Lunch: Cold lunch served at your seat.

Afternoon: Arrive and check into the hotel in Kamloops. Name of the hotel will be confirmed as we get closer to departure. Kamloops is situated at the confluence of the North and South Thompson rivers in the Thompson Valley in the southern interior of British Columbia. It was the native fur trade that attracted the first Europeans, and they established a trading post here in 1812. Gold rush fever in the 1850s and the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the 1880s contributed to the rapid expansion of the settlement.

Dinner: Dinner on your own in Kamloops.

Evening: Free evening to explore Kamloops on your own or rest at the hotel.

Lodging: Kamloops Hotel TBA

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Breakfast: Breakfast served at your seat on the train.

Morning: Depart for the train station and board the Rocky Mountaineer, Red Leaf Service, bound for Vancouver. From the comfort of your roomy, reclining seat enjoy and experience the spectacular scenery through large picture windows. Train attendants will provide interpretive commentary during this beautiful journey.

Lunch: Cold lunch served at your seat

Afternoon: Arrive in Vancouver in the late afternoon. Coach transfer from the railway station to the hotel; check into the hotel. Located in a stunning ocean harbor and surrounded by spectacular mountain peaks, Vancouver is on the leading edge of public policy and planning, and it has developed a plan for sustainable development. This large metropolitan center provides an international gateway for exploring the natural wonders of southwestern British Columbia.

Dinner: Dinner at the hotel.

Evening: Free evening to explore Vancouver or relax at the hotel after a long day of travelling.

Lodging: Best Western Sands by the Sea

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Note: There will be a short five minute ferry ride to Granville Island. Moderate amounts of walking on Granville Island on uneven terrain and some cobblestone streets. There will be rest areas along the way to stop for a break if needed.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: FIELD TRIP: Granville Island. Join an expert from the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts on a historical and culinary exploration of Granville Island and the Public Market, known for its eclectic mix of artisanal food shops and studios. Recognized as the first culinary school in Canada to embrace Ocean Wise status and Green Table Network programs, discover this urban oasis filled with fine waterfront restaurants, theatres, galleries, studios and the most spectacular fresh food market you've ever seen. Savor the wares of the market's many globally influenced and locally impassioned artisans, farmers and food purveyors. Explore and taste what's been grown, fished and cooked fresh in this bustling public marketplace. Along the way, learn about what makes the island both a sensory and historic delight.

Lunch: Lunch at the Pacific Institute's Bistro 101.

Afternoon: Depart for ship. Arrive at Canada Place Pier and board the ms Amsterdam. Use any free time this afternoon to explore the ship and all of its wonderful amenities.

Dinner: Dinner on board.

Evening: Free evening to enjoy shipboard entertainment.

In Transit: Ship sets sail for Port Alberni, BC at 4:00 p.m.

Lodging: ms Amsterdam

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Central Vancouver Island: Cathedral Grove/Coombs Market/Qualicum Cheeseworks

Arrive To: Ship arrives at Port Alberni, BC at 8:00 a.m.

Breakfast: Breakfast on board.

Morning: FIELD TRIP: Travel to "Cathedral Grove" old growth forest where we experience the forest as the First Peoples & settlers did. This wondrous display of 800-year-old trees has undergone trail restoration since a severe windstorm damaged several sections of the park in January 1997, toppling a number of huge ancient trees. Trails are short walks, not hikes, winding through some of the biggest trees in Canada including the largest Douglas-fir trees with the biggest one measuring over 9 meters in circumference.

Lunch: Lunch on your own at Coombs Market. The Old Country Market in Coombs is famous for its "goats on the roof". The goats have posed for many a picture. Inside the Market you will find the freshest local produce, a selection of gifts from the farthest reaches of the world and a delicatessen that specializes in a variety of international meats and cheeses.

Afternoon: FIELD TRIP: This afternoon, explore Qualicum Cheeseworks. Take a tour of the farm and enjoy the tastes and smells of some of the 16 Artisan cheeses made fresh on location. Return to Port Alberni to re-board the ship.

Dinner: Dinner on board.

Evening: This evening enjoy a cocktail party on board the ship in the Crow's Nest.

In Transit: Ship sets sail for Seattle, WA at 5:00 p.m.

Lodging: ms Amsterdam

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Arrive To: Ship arrives at Seattle, WA at 8:00 a.m.

Breakfast: Breakfast on board.

Morning: FIELD TRIP: Begin your exploration of Seattle with a guided city exploration by coach. From the modern Fifth Avenue to historic Pioneer Square and the International District, a tour through the downtown core of Seattle, will teach you about the roots of Seattle and how Seattle has morphed into the modern and eclectic society that it is. Explore some of the oldest and most colorful neighborhoods in the city including Fremont, locally known as the center of the universe, as well as other iconic Seattle neighborhoods. Stop en route at the Hiram M. Chittenden Locks, also known as the Ballard Locks. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the Botanical Garden en-route to the Army Corps of Engineers locks connecting Elliott Bay to the lakes residing throughout greater Seattle. Observe vessels making their way from lake to sea through the locks and if you’re lucky you may catch a glimpse of the salmon making their spawning runs. EXCURSION: Experience a bird’s eye view from the world famous Space Needle, where an elevator will shoot you up to the Observation, or as the locals call it, “The O Deck”. This is your chance for an unforgettable view of the Emerald City and its surrounding mountains and bodies of water.

Lunch: Lunch will be on your own at the Pike Place Market. From fresh baked goods, to exquisite garden sensations, there is something for all appetites in this world renowned market!

Afternoon: FREE TIME: Enjoy an independent exploration of Pike Place Market! "The Market," as the locals affectionately say, attracts 10 million visitors a year, making it one of Washington state's most frequently visited destinations. Pike Place Market is internationally recognized as America's premier farmers' market and is home to more than 200 year-round commercial businesses, 190 craftspeople and approximately 100 farmers who rent table space by the day; plus 240 street performers and musicians. Here you can discover the multitude of culinary offerings and the wide variety of arts and crafts. Meet back up with your group and return to the pier to re-board the ship.

Dinner: Dinner on board.

Evening: Free evening to enjoy activities on board the ship.

In Transit: Ship sets sail for Vancouver, BC at 5:00 p.m.

Lodging: ms Amsterdam

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Note: Today's activities include walking of approximately 2 miles on paved streets and relatively flat terrain. This will include short stops along the way. Participants should also be able to stand for short periods of time (approximately 10 minutes) during interpretation. Public transit will also be used during today's programming.

Arrive To: Ship arrives at Vancouver, BC at 7:00 a.m.

Breakfast: Breakfast on board the ship.

Morning: LECTURE: Disembark from the ship this morning in downtown Vancouver. Our in depth look at Vancouver begins with a lecture on the settlement of Vancouver and the distinct communities and neighborhoods that define this multicultural metropolis. Gain a sense of how the city of Vancouver functions by someone who knows the city like few others, gaining fascinating (and occasionally offbeat) insights to the city's history, architecture, and people.

Lunch: Lunch at the hotel.

Afternoon: FIELD TRIP: Alongside a local historian, explore two of Vancouver's most fascinating communities, Gastown and Chinatown. Beginning in Gastown, the city's birthplace, walk through this historic neighborhood, with much of its early architecture and character intact, and see how it is evolving into one of the city's newest residential areas. Explore the bustling neighborhood of Chinatown, boasting rich culture and a striking collection of heritage buildings recalling the contributions of early pioneers and leaders. En route to the Museum of Anthropology, traverse Stanley Park by coach, with stops throughout the park to view monuments, sculptures and the signature totem poles. FIELD TRIP: At the Museum of Anthropology, you will gain a remarkable glimpse into the lives of the indigenous peoples of the northwest coast of British Columbia. Explore one of the world's outstanding collections of Pacific Northwest Aboriginal artifacts. Massive totem poles, carved boxes, bowls and feast dishes are displayed in the Great Hall, while smaller (but equally magnificent) pieces in gold, silver, argillite, wood, ceramic and other materials are exhibited in the galleries. Canada's largest teaching museum is located in a spectacular building overlooking mountains and sea, and its collections, exhibitions and programs are renowned for providing insight into the cultures of indigenous peoples around the world. You will be guided by docents who are students of Anthropology at the university.

Dinner: Dinner on your own to explore the wide variety of dining options Vancouver has to offer.

Evening: Free evening to explore Vancouver on your own.

Lodging: Best Western Sands by the Sea

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Note: The walk to/from and through Stanley Park will be approximately 2 miles or 3.22 km over relatively flat terrain.

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: FIELD TRIP: Stanley Park. Discover on foot Stanley Park - this breathtaking park remains unspoiled and a testimony to the giant trees which occupied the site of Vancouver in its former days. Its natural west coast atmosphere offers a back drop of majestic cedar, hemlock and fir trees. World famous landmarks in the park will also be discussed including the totem poles and various monuments and sculptures, and the 5.5 mi seawall which encircles the entire park.

Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant.

Afternoon: FREE TIME: This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Stanley Park or other areas of Vancouver on your own.

Dinner: Farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Evening: WRAP-UP SESSION: Enjoy farewell celebrations and a review of your program’s highlights.

Lodging: Best Western Sands by the Sea

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel.

Morning: Independent departures from the hotel after breakfast (scheduled for 7:30 a.m.). Check-out is 12:00 noon.

Meals Included: Breakfast