canadian tours by train

The 11 Best Canadian Train Trips

By Michael Kaminer and Matt Ortile

Canada is second only to Russia when it comes to land mass, which means seeing the country's vast wilderness can be overwhelming. Luckily, Canadian train trips criss-cross most of it, and these rail journeys allow you to take in some of the world's most spectacular scenery, stress-free. Just imagine: the nation's vistas unfolding before you slowly (or swiftly, depending on your chariot) while you remain in the comfort of your seat. On top of that, some of the Canada's most remote—and beautiful—spots lack road access, so a train ride may also be the only way to visit. All the more reason to climb on board .

Read on to learn more about 11 of the most beautiful Canadian train trips you can take across the Great White North, as well as some recommendations for where to stay at the beginning or at the end of your railroad adventure. (And for more fabulous train rides, check out the results of Condé Nast Traveler 's Readers' Choice Awards 2023 to see which trains our readers voted the best in the world .)

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Via Rail’s Winnipeg to Churchill

This 1,054-mile trip north feels more interplanetary than provincial, whisking you from urban Winnipeg to the tundras of Churchill , known as the polar bear capital of the world. Accessible by plane or train only, it’s also prime turf for beluga whale-watching , and possibly the world’s best perch to view the northern lights. Landscapes en route are breathtaking, with stops including tiny river towns The Pas, Thompson, and Weir River. Splurge on Via’s Sleeper Plus class for access to a bed and shower.

Where to stay: In Winnipeg, check into the impressive and century-old Fort Garry Hotel , a prime example of twentieth-century châteauesque architecture, including prominent cornices and a steep sloping copper roof. In case you needed a bit more of that old-world feel to your trip.

Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express, Cochrane to Moosonee

Ontario is larger than France and Spain combined, but most visitors stick to its big southern cities. Embarking from tiny Cochrane—nearly 500 miles north of Toronto —the Polar Bear Express chugs five hours further north to Moosonee, so remote it lacks road access. The route mimics a path fur traders favored centuries ago, through a primeval landscape of thick forests and winding rivers. Note that reaching Cochrane involves a flight to northeastern Timmins and an overnight bus ride.

Where to stay: Break up your adventure with a night at Cedar Meadows Resort & Spa in Timmins, Ontario. The place is all about rural and cozy vibes, letting you bask in the natural beauty of nearby Gillies Lake Park and Hollinger Park.

Agawa Canyon Tour Train, Ontario

It’s only accessible by trail or rail, which makes Agawa Canyon Wilderness Park near Sault Sainte-Marie such a thrill to visit. Hop on and off this 90-minute ride as you pass four dramatic waterfalls and a trail system that overflows with pristine natural beauty. Bonus: Beavers, the most Canadian of critters, traipse through here frequently.

Where to stay: Since this tour train takes just an hour and a half, you'll need a place to rest your head in Sault Sainte-Marie before continuing your journey. Luckily, the Delta Hotels by Marriott Sault Ste. Marie Waterfront is near the station, and offers cool views of Saint Mary's River and the United States beyond.

Royal Canadian Rockies Experience, Banff to Calgary, Alberta

Canada’s glitziest train ride is also one of its most cinematic, passing through splendid Banff and Lake Louise, along with jaw-dropping sights like Alberta’s Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump, a World Heritage Site where Indigenous people hunted ruminants by enticing them to leap off a cliff. Still eager to see more? At the end of the line, you can book a helicopter trip over the Rockies for a bird's eye view.

Where to stay: In Banff, you shouldn't miss the Fairmont Banff Springs . This Scottish Baronial fortress grants you a million-dollar view of those majestic snow-dusted mountain tops, which makes the moniker “the Castle in the Rockies” all the more fitting.

Olivia Morelli

Stacey Lastoe

Maresa Manara

Via Rail’s The Canadian, Toronto to Vancouver

A single train journey can’t capture Canada’s magnificence, but this four-night/three-day adventure from Toronto to Vancouver comes close. You’ll take in prairies, lakes, peaks, valleys, hamlets, waterfalls, and, if you’re lucky, cameos by local wildlife like deer, elk, and bears. If you can, book a seat in Prestige Class—think concierge, superb meals, private lounges—for one of the most comfortable train trips you’ll ever take.

Where to stay: Once you're in Vancouver, keep the plush and casually fabulous energy going with a night or two at the dreamy Shangri-La Vancouver , where those who appreciate the subtleties of luxury travel won't be disappointed.

White Pass and Yukon Route, Yukon

Even today, building a railway through the mountains, glaciers, and gorges of Gold Rush country remains an impressive feat, let alone in 1898, when this route was first built. Survey views of the Yukon, BC, and Alaska , as your train rises a gut-churning 3,000 feet in just 20 miles to the summit of White Pass. Touring such treacherous terrain will leave you appreciating how the railway helped knit a nascent Canada together.

Where to stay: There aren't many hotel options in Skagway, Alaska, where this train journey begins. That said, there are a handful of cruises that call at this Alaskan port town, including options aboard Celebrity Cruises , so you can make this a two-for-one adventure.

Rocky Mountaineer's First Passage to the West, Western Canada

If there’s one Canadian train ride that should make your bucket list, it’s the journey on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff . The whole ride is scenic, offering glimpses into the Great White North’s wildlife as well as its important Indigenous history. Thoughtful guides and storytellers onboard talk you through the locales and vistas from the comfort of your plush leather seats underneath the train cars’ glass-domed roofs. Meals here are delicious too, no matter which class of service you’re in, whether it’s SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf (though the latter’s linen-covered tables are a classy touch).

Where to stay: The Rocky Mountaineer is often spoken about in the same breath as other famous luxury train rides across the world: the Orient Express , Seven Stars Kyushu , or the Royal Scotsman . But unlike those, this isn’t a sleeper train. It travels exclusively by daylight, making the most of the scenery. At night, guests check into a hotel along the route—so your comfort throughout the journey is assured.

Train de Charlevoix, Quebec

Inaugurated in 1889, when it connected Quebec City to remote Charlevoix, this train line cruises along a glorious section of St. Lawrence coastline. Much of the scenery en route seems unchanged a century and a half later, with the mighty river on one side and lush landscapes on the other. Stops include enchanting coastal villages like Baie-St-Paul; consider splitting the journey over two days to explore. The route runs June through October.

Where to stay: Before you climb onboard the train in Quebec City, prep for your journey in old Basse-Ville (meaning “lower city”) at the boutique hotel Monsieur Jean , which offers bright and breezy digs melded with friendly Quebecois hospitality.

Via Rail, Jasper, Alberta to Prince Rupert, BC

The windows-only Dome Car on this nature-filled route offers 360-degree views of the regal Canadian Rockies. During the seven-hour train ride, you’ll also get an ocean’s worth of lakes, including beautiful Yellowhead, Lucerne, and Moose. Have more time? The train heads to coastal Prince Rupert the next morning, where whale-watching and grizzly-bear-viewing are highlights. Bonus: At the Alberta-British Columbia border, the train crosses the Continental Divide.

Where to stay: Once you're on Kaien Island and the train pulls into the port city of Prince Rupert, head for the Crest Hotel , where you can wake up to beautiful waterfront views of—what else?—Prince Rupert Harbour.

Rocky Mountaineer's Journey Through the Clouds, British Columbia and Alberta

The Canadian Rockies’ tallest peak, majestic Mount Robson, is the star of this ten-day journey from Vancouver to Calgary. But it’s hard to pick a highlight when your trip spans sights like British Columbia’s astonishing Hell’s Gate—twice the width of Niagara Falls—and Moose Lake, home to plenty of its namesake. You’ll also get a glimpse of the gargantuan Albreda Glacier, a landscape dating back eons.

Where to stay: When in Canada, you can't go wrong with a Fairmont, and the Fairmont Palliser in Calgary is a true beaut. Plus, it's sandwiched between the city's downtown and the Calgary Design District, so you'll have plenty of sightseeing options when you get off the train.

Via Rail’s The Ocean, Montreal to Halifax

Climbing north into remotest Quebec and east into New Brunswick and Nova Scotia, this aptly-named, 836-mile trip lets the wide-open spaces and clear-blue waters unfold like aqua-tinted postcards. Bonus: The Ocean is the oldest continuously running named passenger train in North America, rolling along since 1904.

Where to stay: In Montreal you've got the pick of the litter, but the stately yet modern Hotel Birks Montreal and the classically luxurious Four Seasons Montreal take the cake. Meanwhile, in Halifax, you've got the super sleek Muir, Autograph Collection in the downtown waterfront area, and the richly cozy The Pebble Bed & Breakfast in the South End for an inn-in-the-city experience.

Recommended

Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection

Kimpton Banneker Hotel

North America Travel Guide

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Train & Rail Tours in Canada

Relax and admire breathtaking views in Canada only accessible by train journey. With 28 Canada train tours lasting from 5 days up to 23 days, you're sure to find a railway carriage with your name on it on a route that will leave you speechless.

28 Train tour packages in Canada with 1,081 reviews

• Train & Rail

Via Railway Experience｜5-Day Vancouver to Rockies Railway Full Experience Tour Departure

Good tour overallAll personnel very accommodating

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Western Canada by Rail

Truly stunning mountain scenery through the Rockies to Vancouver with guest appearances from bears, elk, eagles and gophers! A well paced and organised trip led by an excellent guide Sibylle. Travelling in style on the Rocky Mountaineer was a memorable experience, even though we were in Silver Leaf. A class operation. A minor gripe that there was so little time at the end of the tour in Vancouver and Vancouver Island, luckily we added a couple of extra nights in Vancouver to explore the city.

• In-depth Cultural

Ontario & French Canada with Ocean Train to Halifax

Wonders of the Maritimes & Scenic Cape Breton with Ocean Train to Montreal

The guide was very friendly and knowledgable. The observation car on the train was spoilt because we couldn't see out of the front windows. Apparently they are not cleaned in Halifax as they don't have the equipment, so they make the return journey to Montreal with uncleaned windows - there are so many people sleeping rough why can't they employ a couple of these people with water and mops to clean the windows? I am sure a member of the rail staff could supervise them for the few minutes this would take,and it would certainly improve the visibility and I am sure a few dollars would be appreciated by those who need it. I hope you pass this recommendation on and look forward to receiving any comments on this suggestion. One other point was our sleeping car was near the observation car and a long walk to the restaurant which was the other end of the train. People with mobility problems had difficulty making this walk - couldn't the restaurant car be nearer the middle? I was glad to visit Montreal again - I lived there in the 1960s when De Gaujl said 'Vivre le Quebec libre', and overnight it seemed all the English companies moved to Toronto. I was in an agency working with the Eskimos and the French worked with the Indians, and they amalgamated and so I too was out of a job and had to leave. Montreal has certainly expanded since the late 1960s. I understand that comfort on the train is not your department, but you may be listened to. I will certainly recommend this tour to people, and hope you will continue with it. Fiona Wilkins

Eastern City Lights: Toronto to Quebec City by Rail

Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta (Classic, 9 Days)

French Flair and Coastal Charm: Halifax to Montreal by Rail

Canadian Rockies by Train

This was s bucket list trip. I was really looking forward to taking the train through the Rockies and it did not disappoint. The scenery was beautiful.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta (Small Groups, 9 Days) (from Banff to Vancouver)

7-day Winter VIA Experience (Vancouver To Jasper) Vacation Package (ends In Calgary)

Great Canadian Rail Journey

I really had a great time all the people were so friendly and nice .The accommodation was fantastic the meals really good and James was full of info and a very helpful friendly guy.It was the trip of a lifetime .

Western Canada’s Grand Rail Circle Tour

Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta (Small Groups, 8 Days)

Canadian Train Odyssey

I would like to see more meals offered. Not use to locating evening meals in unknown city. Understand if stopping at place and everyone buys their own, but evening meals???? Breakfast in past has been standard.

• Ocean Cruise

Great Canadian Rail Journey with Alaska Cruise

What people love about train & rail tours in canada.

We enjoyed our tour very much, the sights were beautiful, staff we well informed. A highlight for us was the optional evening photographic tour. The only thing stopping me from giving five stars was the last day felt very rushed, especially at the Banff gondola as the queue to get on took half an hour and not enough time allocated to our lunch at the Lake Louise Chateau, we had to ask the waitress to bring out the dessert while we were eating the main as we only had 15 minutes until the bus left. Allocate a bit more time for those things and you will get five stars.

Our overall experience was good, but were very disappointed by our stay in the last hotel, the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth in Montreal.

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Canada Train Trips

Canada train trips are a truly iconic experience, tour through the majestic Canadian Rockies of Western Canada or across the charming and colorful eastern and Atlantic provinces. 

Combining two incredible trains – the renowned rocky mountaineer in the west and via rail canada, which services routes across the country – our canadian train tours can cater to a variety of budgets and interests. , so whether you imagine yourself rolling around lakes, curving along the ocean’s edge or riding through the snow-capped peaks of the rocky mountains, know that our canada train vacations can get you there. .

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"We just came back from our winter adventure 5 days/4 nights in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada. We had such a nice time and everything was great."

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"We did the "Rail & Drive Across Canada" with you & it was wonderful. A Bucket List dream come true!"

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"Thanks for a great holiday. The Rockies - awesome, Victoria- beautiful. Whistler- magic."

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"They not only tailored my itinerary to include activities I liked, but also made my car and hotel reservations, making it no-fuss for me. "

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Melinda - Nevada, United States

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Graham Perth, Australia

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Annabelle - Delaware, United States

" The whales very kindly decided to perform when I was whale watching. "

Janet New Eltham, United Kingdom

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Paul Williams Canada

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"Our trip through western Canada planned by Canada by Design was fabulous."

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Canada Train Trips, Luxury Canadian Train Tours & Vacations

Canada Train Trips | Exploring Canada with VIA Rail

Canada Train Trips | Luxury Canada Train Vacations

Get ready for your ultimate Canadian Train Trip designed by Canada's leading Rail Vacation Specialist.

Traveling Canada by train is a truly iconic experience, be it through the majestic Canadian Rockies of Western Canada or across the charming and colorful Eastern and Atlantic provinces. Combining three incredible trains – the renowned Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail (which services routes across Canada), our Canada Train Trips cater to a variety of budget and interests. As always, booking train travel in Canada comes with the expert guidance of our team, customizing your trip to the point of perfection.

Our Featured Canada Train Trips

For the past 23 years our team has been designing dream Canada train trips. Our team regularly travels from coast to coast aboard VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer, discovering new adventures that we can't wait to share with you.

Explore our Canada Train Trips by Type

Feast your eyes on Canada with a train trip that includes the Last Frontier, the Canadian Rockies, Eastern Canada or the Maritimes. In winter, enjoy the magical scenery of Alberta with our popular Snow Train to the Rockies.

Bucket List Top 10 Best Selling Train Trips

View our Bucket List Top 10 Best Selling Canadian Train Trips, these scenic rail journeys are world famous with Canada being home to some of the best train tours on the planet.

Canadian Rockies by Train, Drive or Both ?

A Canadian Rockies road trip is a tempting option or should I take a Train Trip? What if we told you there's no need to choose.

Western Canada Trains, Lodges & Wildlife

Combining prestigious names like the iconic Fairmont Hotels, with one-of-a-kind experiences like Clayoquot and Sonora Resort you can revisit a renowned hotel or immerse in something new.

Overnight Train Trips Across Canada

If you're looking for the trip of a lifetime equally about the journey as the destination, then our overnight train trips across Canada on VIA Rail's sleeper train is perfect.

Exploring Fairmont's Grand Railway Hotels

The blending of rail travel and luxury accommodation has a long history in Canada, dating as far back as 1886.

Explore by Train | VIA Rail & Rocky Mountaineer

There is no better way to explore Canada than by train. From VIA Rail's famous overnight continental train to Rocky Mountaineer's journey through the Canadian Rockies, explore over 20 of our best rail vacations by train.

VIA Rail Canada has perfected the art of ferrying passengers across the country's vast and diverse landscapes, all year round.

Rocky Mountaineer

Travelers with a passion for historical adventure should consider the Canadian Rockies Train Tour with Rocky Mountaineer.

The Latest Stories From Our Team

Our vacations are inspired by our own adventures, be it heli-hiking in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, taking the train through a winter wonderland, driving along the rugged east coast or searching for polar bears on Manitoba's tundra.

How to Plan a Winter Wonderland Rail Trip Through the Rockies

With over 23 years of experience planning customized dream trips to the Canadian Rocky Mountains, will make your trip even more exceptional than you imagined.

The Best Canadian Train Trips for 2023

As we wind down what has been an unprecedented year, we begin to strategize: What are the best Canadian train trips to book for 2023? The answer, as always, lays in the uniqueness of the individual.

6 Classic Rail Vacations in Canada

Discover 6 classic rail vacations in Canada onboard both VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer as we take you through the Rocky Mountains, along the East Coast and over to the Maritimes.

Canada Train Trips REVIEWS

"One of our best vacations. Perfectly planned and all went off without a hitch. "

Joel Yellin Rochester , United States

"I would definitely recommend this to anyone - but especially to young parents with families. "

Annabelle Delaware, United States

"They not only tailored my itinerary to include activities I liked, but also made my car and hotel reservations, making it no-fuss for me. "

Annette California, United States

"We booked a trip in Eastern Canada - It was wonderful"

Los Angeles, CA

" The whales very kindly decided to perform when I was whale watching. "

Janet New Eltham, United Kingdom

"Thank you for the wonderful job you did in setting everything up, and also for your courteous assistance."

Nick Florida, United States

"From day one we felt comfortable that everything was going to be special."

Mark Australia

"We found our experience with Canada by Design to be most wonderful for our Trans-Canada Rail Trip."

Marjorie Stock California, United States

"Every part of our trip was well thought out and there were no hitches."

Di New Zealand

"I would highly recommend Canada by Design and would certainly use them again when going to another area they service."

Joyce New Jersey, United States

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Western Canada Rail Vacations

A Canadian Rockies Rail Vacation is one of those iconic experiences of a lifetime. 

Soak up jaw-dropping scenery punctuated by more than 100 ancient glaciers, towering peaks and turquoise blue lakes, all while catered to by attentive rail staff. , whether it's aboard rocky mountaineer or via rail’s famous canadian train, your trip can begin in the pacific port of vancouver or in the cowboy city of calgary . , western canada rail vacations introduction.

From its rugged Pacific coastline to its soaring mountain peaks, lush rainforests and endless vineyards, British Columbia marks the perfect starting point for a Western Canada train vacation.

Neighbouring British Columbia is Alberta - home to five national parks, charming resort towns and the incredible scenery of the Canadian Rockies. Continuously listed as one of Canada’s most beloved destinations, getting here by rail is an experience not easily forgotten. Travel into the heart of the mountains on a Canadian Rockies train trip and experience stunning vistas of verdant river valleys, dramatic rock sheds, lush rainforests and deep canyons. As you enter the majestic 69,000-square-mile mountain range that is the Canadian Rockies, you will become immersed in some of the most dramatic scenes in North America.

Explore Western Canada Rail Vacations Places

Banff | Calgary | Jasper | Lake Louise | Vancouver | Whistler

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Canada Rail Vacations REVIEWS

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Annabelle Delaware, United States

"It was such a relief to know that we could trust Canada by Design before and during our trip."

Vered Mei-Tal Lutherville, United States

"It was like a Christmas tree fairyland. It was snowing pretty good. So coming from Texas in the summer it was really special, almost magical. "

Anita Texas, United States

"I highly recommend this company, They will tailor a trip to meet individual needs."

Mel New Zealand

"We will be recommending you to others and will use you again when we return for more adventure."

Kay New Zealand

" I couldn't be more pleased with the trip! "

Marlene Schillinger Petersburg, Virginia, United States

"One of our best vacations. Perfectly planned and all went off without a hitch. "

Joel Yellin Rochester , United States

"From start to finish it was an ideal trip for us to enjoy Canada scenery, atmosphere and hospitality. "

Manuel United States

"Thanks very much to Jasmine for helping to organise our wonderful holiday from Vancouver across the Rockies to Calgary."

Graham Perth, Australia

"We came back with many happy memories and beautiful photos of your breathtaking country."

Johanna Oswald Little Rock, AR, United States

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Cross Canada Train

A   transformative   experience:   luxury   train   tours   across   canada.

Climbing aboard VIA Rail’s classic trains is like stepping into a golden past. Departing from the Pacific Ocean on Canada’s West Coast in Vancouver, you will travel through mountains, forests, over rivers and prairies, and along lakes across Canada to Toronto aboard our iconic The Canadian train. Continue your journey with VIA Rail on the Corridor train to historic Montreal, or even take the Ocean train along the rugged shores of the Maritime provinces and reach the Atlantic Ocean in Halifax. These trains will make the natural beauty and history of Canada real to you. Great for train enthusiasts, adventure seekers, families, and those celebrating milestone moments, travel aboard VIA Rail will deliver opportunities to see untamed wildlife, Canada’s exquisite natural wonders, hand-crafted local cuisine, and meet new friends on the train.

Have   a   Romantic   Cross   Canada   Train   Trip   for   Two

When our guests book overnight train trips, we provide rooms aboard VIA Rail’s Sleeper Plus class Cabins for Two. During the day, you’ll enjoy the scenery from the privacy of your private cabin while reclining on a seat or couch; at night, your bed will be rolled out and you’ll be rocked asleep by the gentle sway of the train. You’ll have access to a private wash closet – bathroom – sink, vanity, closet, and electrical outlets within your cabin; each railcar shares a shower room. Solo travelers have extra room in their private cabin for two to enjoy additional space to enjoy the luxury of Across Canada rail travel.

During the day you are free to wander through the train and utilize its many cars. You take meals in the dining car as you enjoy the rolling scenery, you might spend some time in the lounge listening to live music, or you might have a drink at the bar or make your way to the dome section in the Skyline car where you will be able to experience the uninterrupted landscape beneath the glass dome. Meals are included and made fresh on board meaning you always have several options to choose from and accommodations can be made for allergies or dietary restrictions.

Enhance   your   Ride   on   The   Canadian   train   with   a   Prestige   Upgrade

Guests traveling aboard The Canadian train who want to make their experience aboard VIA Rail even more special have the opportunity to upgrade to Prestige class. In Prestige, you will enjoy an upgraded, luxurious cabin, complete with a private washroom and shower, a flatscreen TV, an L-shaped couch by day and a two-person Murphy bed by night, complete with an extra-large window to enjoy the breathtaking sights of Canada’s diverse beauty. Personalized concierge service is available to you for the entirety of your trip, fresh meals will be prepared for you on board, and all drinks are complimentary. You will also enjoy access to the Prestige Park Car where you can take advantage of wine tastings and interactive talks on local history, geography and culture.

Travel with Canada Rail Vacations aboard VIA Rail can take you across mountain ranges, through rushing river gorges, across many kilometres of prairies and lakes, and through eight Canadian provinces. You’ll see British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. You’ll travel through Vancouver, Jasper, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax on your journey of a lifetime!

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Canadian Rockies by Train

About this tour.

From the lush green Pacific coast of Vancouver, board VIA Rail’s The Canadian for a once-in-a-lifetime overnight train journey. Relax in the dome car and experience panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, rushing rivers and the sheer unspoiled wilderness of Canada. Arrive in Jasper and see the dramatic Maligne Canyon and its picture-perfect lake. Journey along the unforgettable Icefields Parkway. Marvel at Athabasca. Discover the natural beauty of Moraine Lake and the powerful Bow Falls. Experience a day on a ranch in the Alberta plains, complete with a wagon ride in search of buffalo and a BBQ lunch in the great outdoors. End your journey in cosmopolitan Calgary. Discover the natural beauty only found in the Canadian Rockies.

Your Tour Includes

• 6 Handpicked Accommodations
• 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• British Columbia

Your Tour at a Glance

7 Breakfasts

2 - Moderate

Travel Style

Customize your tour.

Optional Excursions

Starting at $79.00

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Experience the beautiful city of Vancouver with a sightseeing tour.

Witness spectacular views on your VIA Rail train ride.

Drive the unforgettable Icefields Parkway.

Marvel at the power of Bow Falls in Banff.

Cultural Experiences:

See the dramatic Maligne Canyon, one of the area’s most spectacular landmarks.

At Athabasca Glacier, choose a ride on the glacier or walk on the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

Behold spectacular Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks.

Culinary Inclusions:

Enjoy breakfast at picture-perfect Maligne Lake.

Delight in a traditional Albertan barbecue.

• Maligne Lake
• Athabasca Glacier
• Choice on Tour
• Lake Louise

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

• *No Hassle Refunds
• Traveling Well Safety
• No booking fee, *no change fees
• Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

• Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

• Tour Extensions

Today in the Icefields area, you have the choice between two activities. First you may choose to ride onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier by Ice Explorer; a massive vehicle specially designed for glacial travel. An experienced driver-guide shares a wealth of fascinating information about glaciers, icefields and their impact on our environment. Your other option is to walk beyond nature's edge and enjoy the view from a fully-accessible, cliff-edge walkway that leads to a glass-floored observation platform 918 feet (280 metres) above the Sunwapta Valley.

Hotel-Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre

Hotel-Calgary Marriott Downtown

A scenic ferry crossing transports you to Vancouver Island to visit the incomparable and lovely Butchart Gardens. Set on over 55 acres, Butchart Gardens are among the world's most beautiful and are a veritable explosion of color and fragrances. Then, take a short sightseeing tour of the "City of Gardens," Victoria, and enjoy leisure time to explore this charming, seaside city. This evening you will journey back to the mainland via a short ferry ride.

Experience the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies from a birds-eye perspective -- leave the ground behind and behold the incomparable beauty of the region with a helicopter tour. Nothing compares to the total exhilaration of soaring above some of the most incredible scenery the world offers. Soar to the “Matterhorn” of the Canadian Rockies, Mt. Assiniboine, which rises majestically 11,870 feet along the Great Divide. The surrounding glaciers and icefalls will astound you and capture your imagination. This is a photographer's dream come true!

Set off on the Athabasca River for the adventure of a lifetime! Climb aboard a specially-designed raft with a licensed National Parks guide and explore this great waterway as it flows through the Alberta wilderness. Float through many small sets of rapids and calm waters as you trace a route once used by early fur traders. This is a great excursion for travelers of all ages and a safe, gentle way to experience one of the world’s true wild rivers. Each raft is 25 feet long and seats 25 people. The fully-trained guides possess endless streams of knowledge of the local wildlife, history and folklore. Don’t miss an unforgettable chance to experience the fascinating Canadian wilderness. Watch as they row through six to eight short sets of mild rapids as well as calm stretches over 10 miles (16 kilometers) of river.

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre From $175 per night

Sheraton Vancouver Wall Centre

Via rail canada, forest park hotel, the fairmont chateau lake louise, the fairmont banff springs, calgary marriott downtown, stay longer.

Post Night: Calgary Marriott Downtown From $100 per night

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