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Classic Rocky Mountain Rail Circle Tour | Rocky Mountaineer

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INTRODUCTION

Travel aboard our iconic 8-Day Rocky Mountain Rail Trip From Vancouver.

This circle train tour travels along both popular rail routes with stops in kamloops, banff, lake louise and jasper with silver or goldleaf service on rocky mountaineer., not only do you stay in the best places the canadian rockies, you also have the freedom of choice of tours in both banff and jasper, an ice explorer ride on the athabasca glacier in lake louise and plenty of wildlife viewing of grizzly bears, moose, elk and more. , this is eight straight days of authentic canadian adventure, personalized to your preferences. .

Itinerary at a Glance

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 Vancouver to Kamloops | Rocky Mountaineer All aboard Rocky Mountaineer for the scenic rail journey to Kamloops in the interior of British Columbia. Pass through the rich fields of the Fraser River Valley and the towering peaks of the Coastal Mountains before entering the Fraser Canyon. Follow the Thompson River through spectacular landscapes to historic Kamloops. (breakfast & lunch is included today)

Day 2 Kamloops to Banff | Rocky Mountaineer Back on-board the Rocky Mountaineer following the South Thompson River to Shuswap Lake with its thousand miles of shoreline. Pass Craigellachie, where the ‘last spike’ was driven completing the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885. Enter Rogers Pass, with its tunnels, snow-sheds and glistening Glaciers. The Kicking Horse river leads you to Kicking Horse Pass, the Spiral Tunnels and over the Continental Divide to Banff, and Banff National Park. (breakfast & lunch is included today)

Day 3 Banff | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 5 Excursions Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of these excursions. Option 1. Discover Banff & Its Wildlife Tour + Banff Gondola Discover Banff's natural wonders on this half-day, small-group tour. Marvel at sights like Bow Falls, Hoodoos rock formation, and Lake Minnewanka. Conclude your exploration with a relaxing gondola ride to Sulphur Mountain's peak, maximizing your views of Banff National Park effortlessly. Enjoy the enchanting beauty of these landmarks with minimum exertion. Option 2. Banff National Park Explorer Moraine Lake & Lake Louise | Small Group Tour with Picnic Lunch Join this small group tour for a curated experience of Banff National Park's highlights, with the added chance to spot wildlife through expert local guidance. Enjoy unhindered access to Moraine Lake & Lake Louise, spending over 11/2 hours at each, discovering hidden gems and serene trails. The final phase of the tour is tailor-made in Banff by your guide, considering recent wildlife sightings and your interests, ensuring the day concludes on a high note. Option 3. Rockies Hidden Gems Yoho & Kootenay National Parks | Small Group Tour with Picnic Lunch Avoid the crowds with this full-day adventure in the Kootenay and Yoho National Parks, featuring picturesque waterfalls and Canadian Rockies views. Start with a relaxing stroll in Kootenay National Park's Marble Canyon, marveling at turquoise glacial waters and striking canyon walls. Enjoy Emerald Lake's neon blue waters, where optional canoe rentals, hiking trails, and lakeside picnics are available. The day concludes with a visit to Canada's 2nd tallest waterfall, Takakkaw Falls, accessible through backroads offering mountain vistas and wildlife sightings. Option 4. Cowboy Horseback Cookout BBQ Lunch or Dinner Saddle up for a ride along the Bow River in Banff and a Western style cookout. Choose from riding on horseback or in a covered wagon through the beautiful Rocky Mountain terrain. Option 5. Signature Guided Hike | Small Group Hike with Picnic Lunch Experience the best of Rocky Mountain National Parks' backcountry with our curated hiking tours. Revel in spring's wildflowers, summer's clear glacier views, and the golden hues of fall's larch trees. Our passionate local guides will lead you on classic hikes in the Banff and Lake Louise area, including Stanley Glacier, Larch Valley, Kootenay National Park Trails, and Plain of 6 Glaciers. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty across seasons in the Rockies.

Day 4 Banff to Lake Louise | Coach Depart Banff early afternoon for a short drive via the scenic Bow Valley to Lake Louise.

Day 5 Lake Louise to Jasper | Sightseeing with picnic lunch Your sightseeing tour today will encompass the ultimate glacier exploration as you travel along the spectacular Icefields Parkway. From walking on ancient ice with the Ice Explorer ride (included), to standing on a glass platform almost one thousand feet in the air at the Glacier Skywalk (included), today’s experiences will leave you with a special appreciation for this treasured region of the Rockies (picnic lunch included today)

Day 6 Jasper | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 5 Excursions Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of these excursions Option 1. Morning Maligne Valley with Medicine Lake Tour Experience the most incredible sights in Jasper National Park’s Maligne Valley during this guided excursion to the region’s most scenic lakes & majestic canyons, enjoy a gentle guided walk along the shores of this pristine lake. Option 2. Evening Discover Jasper & its Wildlife Admire diverse animal life in the Canadian wilderness on this evening wildlife tour. Delve into Jasper National Park with your guide. Travel through the mighty Athabasca Valley and marvel at the park’s beautiful landscapes by twilight. Option 3. Gentle Raft Float on the Athabasca River Experience Jasper National Park's natural beauty with a small group float trip on the Athabasca River. Cover several miles on Class II rapids, offering mild excitement with a few splashes. Enjoy your guide's engaging storytelling about local history and wildlife throughout this gentle adventure. Option 4. Maligne Canyon Hiking Tour Embark on a stunning hike in Jasper National Park, exploring the deepest accessible canyon in the Canadian Rockies. Learn about the Maligne Valley, Karst topography, and the mysterious disappearing Medicine Lake. Enjoy breathtaking views of rushing rapids and waterfalls along the canyon's five bridges. An added bonus is the shuttle service back to the top, saving you from a steep uphill hike. Option 5. Upgrade Option: Maligne Valley Sightseeing + Boat Cruise This Jasper tour starts with a brief town overview before crossing the Athabasca River to Maligne Lake. Discover the majestic Maligne Canyon's waterfalls and the enigmatic "disappearing" Medicine Lake. The highlight is a trip to stunning Maligne Lake, including an interpretative boat cruise to Spirit Island. Experience firsthand the beauty that captured adventurer Mary Schaeffer's heart a century ago, and has since become world-renowned.

Day 7 Jasper to Kamloops | Rocky Mountaineer All aboard Rocky Mountaineer for a scenic rail journey to Kamloops in the interior of British Columbia. Leaving Jasper National Park, travel the ‘Yellowhead’ route past the sprawling grandeur of Mount Robson ‘the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and follow the mighty Thompson River, the route of early fur traders, before arriving in Kamloops. (breakfast & lunch is included today)

Day 8 Kamloops to Vancouver | Rocky Mountaineer Leaving Kamloops, follow the Thompson River through Ashcroft, one of Canada’s driest towns, with an average rainfall of just 18 centimetres. Pass through Rainbow Canyon, named for its cliffs striped with pinks, greens and greys creating a stunning rainbow effect. Continue on to the Fraser Canyon, where at Hell’s Gate watch water torrent past the canyon walls at its narrowest point. The last leg of the journey takes you through the fertile farming region of the Fraser Valley to arrive in the Pacific port of Vancouver late afternoon. (breakfast & lunch is included today)

Package Includes:

• 4 days on board Rocky Mountaineer Train: Vancouver to Banff | Jasper to Vancouver
• 2 nights accommodation in Kamloops provided by Rocky Mountaineer
• 2 nights accommodation in Banff
• 1 night accommodation in Lake Louise
• 2 nights accommodation in Jasper
• Transfer between hotel & rail station in Banff & Jasper
• Discover Banff & Its Wildlife Tour + Banff Gondola
• Banff National Park Explorer Moraine Lake & Lake Louise | Small Group Tour with Picnic Lunch
• Rockies Hidden Gems Yoho & Kootenay National Parks | Small Group Tour with Picnic Lunch
• Cowboy Horseback Cookout BBQ Lunch or Dinner
• Signature Guided Hike | Small Group Hike with Picnic Lunch
• Coach transfer between Banff & Lake Louise
• Full day tour between Jasper and Lake Louise with picnic lunch included
• Ice Explorer ride onto Athabasca Glacier
• Morning Maligne Valley with Medicine Lake Tour
• Evening Discover Jasper & its Wildlife
• Gentle Raft Float on the Athabasca River
• Maligne Canyon Hiking Tour
• Upgrade Option: Maligne Valley Sightseeing + Boat Cruise
• Meals as per itinerary
• National Park fees

Hotel & Rail Information | Moderate Grade

• Rocky Mountaineer Train | SilverLeaf Service
• Kamloops - Moderate Hotel | Provided by Rocky Mountaineer
• Jasper - Moderate Hotel | Standard Room
• Lake Louise - Lake Louise Inn | Summit Deluxe Queen Room
• Banff -Elk+Avenue Hotel | Standard Room

Hotel & Rail Information | Superior Grade

• Jasper - Forest Park Hotel | Woodland Balcony or Alpine Room
• Lake Louise - Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Fairmont Room
• Banff - Banff Caribou Lodge | Superior Room

Hotel & Rail Information | Deluxe Grade

• Rocky Mountaineer Train | GoldLeaf Service
• Jasper - Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Deluxe Room
• Lake Louise - Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Fairmont Lakeview Room
• Banff - Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel | Deluxe Room

Hotel & Rail Information | Deluxe Plus Grade

• Jasper - Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Premier Deluxe Room
• Lake Louise - Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Deluxe Lakeview Room
• Banff - Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel | Deluxe Mountain View Room

Not Included

• Activities other than specified
• Meals other than specified
• Portage fees

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Arrange a call with a Canada Travel Designer and bring your vacation one step closer!

DATES & PRICING

Departs from Vancouver: Monday & Friday (Tour Code: TR250)

STAY AT THESE HOTELS ON THIS RAIL VACATION

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Days / Nights

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Banff Caribou Lodge

Lake Louise Inn

Forest Park Hotel Jasper

Elk Avenue Hotel

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We have just come back from our tour Canada. We had a great time. Thanks Canada Rail Vacations, especially to Karen for putting together and planning such a trouble free, smooth running package to make our visit even more unforgettable. Every place we have been to have been carved very deeply in our memories. We fell in love with the Rockies, its wild life, ice fields, beautiful towns and the friendly people. We definitely want to come back and we know who to contact.

Lutfu Istanbul

Thanks for a great holiday. The Rockies and Eastern Canada - awesome, Victoria- beautiful. Whistler- magic. All the itinerary was excellent. Well done team!!

Mark Sydney, Australia

We had a wonderful time, everything was perfect. We would recommend trips organized by Canada Rail Vacations to anyone who is interested in actively exploring parts of the country. Many thanks for an outstanding job.

Astrid Ottawa, Canada

We would like to express our appreciation for a wonderful trip arranged through Kris, Canada Rail Vacations. From start to finish it was an ideal trip for us to enjoy Canada scenery, atmosphere and hospitality. We were afforded the right amount of activity for the trip yet relaxing. The suggested route from Calgary to Jasper was just spectacular. The hotels we stayed in are in town. And of course the train ride is A plus. Again Thank you.

Manuel United States

Paulina booked an amazing Canada for my family. This was so easy to arrange. I just told her what we wanted to do and the time frame we had. She got back to me within a day with an outline of what she had arranged and shortly after that, I had a finalized tour. The price was very reasonable for the tour. This was an A++ experience and I'll definitely use Canada Rail Vacations for our next trip to Canada.

Kathleen Texas, United States

Start planning your tailor-made rail vacation in Canada by contacting our rail specialists

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Travel Designer

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Rocky Mountaineer

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Similar Experiences

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Rocky Mountaineer - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Accommodations

Essential Rockies by Train

6 days / 5 nights

Time on train

Where it goes

April – October

Your itinerary is personalized to suit your dreams and needs:

• Decide your desired budget
• Choose your own activities and experiences
• Have all the details of your trip arranged for you

The perfect short Rocky Mountaineer train trip

Your chance to experience the best of the Canadian Rockies! Take the famous Rocky Mountaineer train, and have plenty of time to explore the town of Banff and the beauty of Lake Louise.

Rocky Mountaineer rail journey from Vancouver to Lake Louise

Unique small group tours in banff national park, see glaciers, waterfalls, forests, and wildlife, stop over at beautiful lake louise, top experiences and features.

Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer Train

Experience Rocky Mountaineer's hospitality

Visit Lake Louise

Spend time in Banff National Park

See the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Spot wildlife in Banff National Park

Explore Gastown in downtown Vancouver

Your questions answered.

Find out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. We are here to help.

What’s Included

Frequently asked questions, is this an escorted tour.

Our vacations are not typically ‘escorted.’ You are not tied into a specific group, or a rigid daily itinerary but rather have the freedom of ‘independent’ travel.

This allows you, with the help of our Canadian Insiders, to personalize your trip to suit your occasion, interests, timeframe and budget. We’ll guide you through the process and provide the reassurance of seamless connections, customer service support, and scheduled activities tailored to your taste.

Can I customize this trip?

Your trip can be as rich as you’d like, and completely arranged around your interests and needs. The greatest benefit of working with us is our local knowledge. You can customize your trip and decide what you’d like to see and do.

If your trip is a special occasion, we’ll make sure it is unforgettable. Or if you’re traveling with a group, we’ll take care of the logistics so you can share time together stress-free.

Can I modify the trip's length by spending more or less time at certain locations?

Absolutely! We personalize all our clients’ trips to fit their exact tastes and needs. You can add days at locations that you’d like to explore and spend more time at. Or leave out certain areas that don’t interest you as much. Discuss your travel goals with our Vacation Advisors who make sure that your trip fits your needs and budget.

Where do I stay on my trip?

We partner with many hotels across the country that offer a variety of service levels and unique experiences. Choosing a hotel is based on local availability and personal preference, and our Insiders will help you find the perfect place to rest your head so that you can have the best experience possible.

On some trips, I see hotels referred to as Comfort, Superior, and Deluxe. What is that?

On some of our trips, you’ll see that we categorize our hotel rooms by Comfort, Superior and Deluxe class, which generally translates into the traditional 3-, 4- or 5-star designation (equivalent to Best Western, Sheraton and Fairmont). However, sometimes we use the same hotel for more than one category and distinguish the room by size, floor level or view.

Our Comfort Level hotels include our favorite 3 star hotels, in great locations and with excellent service.

Our Superior Level hotels provide amazing value for clients wanting something more upscale but not at the price of a top-end 5 star resort. Superior level hotels are some of our favorites because of the character and unique charm that you won't find at the average chain hotel.

In Deluxe Level hotels, it's likely you'll be staying at one of the iconic Canadian Fairmont Hotels in a room with a view. Built for the Canadian Pacific Railway in the early 20th century, these hotels are luxurious and full of history – ensuring an experience you'll never forget.

How much does my trip cost?

All our trips are personalized to fit our clients’ schedule and budget. The price of your trip generally depends on the travel season, train service, accommodations, and the sightseeing tours you take. When you request a quote you’ll be provided with the detailed information you need

Am I on the train the whole time?

Most of our trips include stops to get off the train to explore Canada’s beautiful locations, national parks and unique cities. However, if you’re keen to maximize your time onboard, we’ll pair you up with the perfect train experience.

What is the Rocky Mountaineer experience like?

Rocky Mountaineer operates daylight touring trains, which travel along three of the most spectacular routes in Western Canada. You’ll enjoy onboard commentary, award winning service, and incredible food.

What are the differences between SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf service on the Rocky Mountaineer train?

There are a few differences between SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf service.

In SilverLeaf, you travel in a single-level dome car with oversized windows and are served meals at your seat. In GoldLeaf, you travel in a bi-level dome car, which features comfortable seating on the upper level and a dining area on the lower level. GoldLeaf coaches are taller, so you can see above the treeline.

GoldLeaf also includes access to an exclusive outdoor viewing platform. In SilverLeaf, there is a small viewing area between train cars.

What activities and excursions are available in Banff National Park?

A range of activities and excursions are available in Banff National Park, so you can choose how you spend your time there. You could ride the Banff Gondola, discover the area’s iconic sights on a small-group tour, enjoy a helicopter flight over the mountains, or explore the beautiful Icefields Parkway.

For more details on activity and tour options, please see the trip itinerary or speak to one of our local travel experts.

View full itinerary

Like this trip? Get more details with a sample itinerary:

• Day-tour options and descriptions;
• Departure dates;
• Suggestions for personalizing your trip.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Located in Banff National Park, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is surrounded by soaring mountain peaks, a sparkling turquoise lake, and the impressive Victoria Glacier. Explore the area’s outstanding beauty on horseback, or paddle on the lake in a canoe.

Azur Legacy Collection Hotel

The Azur Legacy Collection Hotel is the only property in Western Canada to be part of the Leading Hotels of the World (LHW) portfolio. Situated in downtown Vancouver, the Art Deco-inspired hotel offers a boutique experience. Enjoy dinner at the garden-like rooftop restaurant or in the beautiful lobby lounge.

Elk + Avenue Hotel

Conveniently located in downtown Banff, the Elk and Avenue Hotel combines Banff’s alpine history with a sleek modern design. After a day of exploring, unwind in the hotel’s jacuzzi or dry sauna, then enjoy fresh Canadian cuisine at the on-site restaurant.

Rimrock Resort Hotel

Built into the side of a mountain, the Rimrock Resort Hotel sits high above Banff town and provides guests with spectacular views of the Bow River Valley. Banff Upper Hot Springs and the Banff Gondola are a short walk from the hotel, while other attractions are minutes away by car.

Personalize This Itinerary

Here are some of the most popular ways to personalize this journey.

Celebrate an occasion

Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or the fulfillment of a lifelong goal, our team is ready to make it a celebration to remember. From arranging a bottle of champagne to putting together a helicopter picnic for two on top of a mountain at sunset, we're ready to make your dreams a reality.

Travel in a private group

Exploring with friends and family is the best way to create lasting memories and reconnect. Organizing once-in-a-lifetime trips for families and small groups of friends is a particular passion for us. Ask us about how our itineraries can be customized to work for your group.

Great Bear Rainforest

Ask us to arrange a visit to one of British Columbia's most unique treasures - the Great Bear Rainforest. Stay in remote yet luxurious accommodations and witness eagles, grizzly bears, sea otters, dolphins, whales, wolves, and more in the wild.

Visit Victoria, BC

Add a night or two to explore the old-world charm of Victoria, on Vancouver Island. Visit the famed Butchart Gardens, go whale watching, or explore the seafront parks and museums. We recommend a stay at the Fairmont Empress - Victoria's stately crown jewel. Photo credit: Destination BC

Explore on a self drive

For the days you're not onboard the train, ask us about adding a car rental and exploring on your own. We'll provide points of interest, admission to attractions, and information on all the best places to visit along the way.

What Our Customers Say

It was a great trip.

It was a great trip. All of the hotels arranged by Fresh Tracks were top notch and the dinner in Vancouver was wonderful. We also loved the gondola trip to Sulphur Mountain, the si...   read more

Bill, Chantale and Wesley

You are truly a superior travel organization!

My Canadian Rockies train trip exceeded my expectations! It was truly an extraordinary vacation. A first class experience with great attention to detail and highly personalized. It...   read more

An amazing experience we will remember forever!

This was an amazing experience that we will remember forever! The most memorable moments were Banff and the Gondola, Lake Louise and our amazing accommodations at the Fairmont Chat...   read more

Terri and John

Traveling by train was fantastic

We enjoyed visiting a variety of Canadian locations and traveling by train was fantastic. Our travel package was well-organized and met our needs.

Mary Anne and Kevin

We immensely enjoyed our two day Rocky Mountaineer train trip

We immensely enjoyed our two day Rocky Mountaineer train trip. It exceeded all expectations. The friendly and personal service and high quality food and beverages served made for a...   read more

Ina and Stan

Insider Tips

From the snow capped mountain peaks to the vibrant lakes, dense forest, and alpine meadows you will not find a more diverse landscape with so much to offer! Skiing and hiking are just a couple of my favorite things; there is no other place I would rather call home.

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Vancouver & the Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer

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Select the year you would like to travel.

• 2024 Classic
• 2025 Classic

Accommodations

• Pricing & Availability
• Important Info

Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

Spectacular two-day rail journey onboard Rocky Mountaineer in a GoldLeaf Service glass-dome train car from the Vancouver coast to Canada's Rocky Mountains

Accommodations in four acclaimed Fairmont hotels and resorts – the Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver and three Fairmont resort hotels in Jasper National Park and Banff National Park

Floatplane flightseeing excursion over the Gulf Islands from Vancouver to Victoria

Docent-led tour of the Bill Reid Gallery in Vancouver, a showcase for contemporary aboriginal art, and a visit to Stanley Park

A drive along the stunning Icefields Parkway from Jasper to Lake Louise

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

The World Next Door

A journey that will transport you, body and soul... from the sophisticated seaport city of Vancouver... to a classic train ride aboard the Rocky Mountaineer through unspoiled wilderness... to the snowy peaks and glacial lakes of the Canadian Rockies... experience nature at its most spectacular.

Explore Vancouver, known for its culinary innovation, art scene, and beautiful mountain backdrop, where you'll take in bird's-eye views by floatplane, enjoy a private visit to a First Nations art gallery, and more... Ride the rails into the Canadian Rockies onboard Rocky Mountaineer , enjoying breathtaking scenery from a GoldLeaf Service glass-dome coach... Travel along the Icefields Parkway... and stay at four premier Fairmont resort hotels in Vancouver and in Jasper and Banff National Parks!

Into the Rockies by rail aboard Rocky Mountaineer

Stay at four acclaimed fairmont resorts.

Nights 1, 2, 4 – 8

Spend seven nights at four luxury Fairmont resorts in Vancouver & the Canadian Rockies

Your "Vancouver & The Rockies by Rocky Mountaineer" journey includes a total of seven nights spent in accommodations at four of Western Canada's finest Fairmont luxury resorts: Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver, BC; Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in Alberta's Jasper National Park; and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Fairmont Banff Springs, both historic Canadian Rockies resort hotels originally built by the Canadian Pacific Railway over a century ago, set amidst the natural treasures of Banff National Park.

Flightseeing over Vancouver & the Gulf Islands

A bird's-eye view of vancouver and the gulf islands by floatplane.

As far as geographical names go, British Columbia's scenic Gulf Islands can be a bit daunting. First of all, the more than 200 Gulf Islands are actually located not in a "gulf" but in the Strait of Georgia (which has nothing to do with the US state or the former Soviet republic), set between large Vancouver Island to the west, and the British Columbia mainland (where the city of Vancouver is situated) to the east. And to make things even more interesting, the islands include towns with names like Vesuvius and Ganges. But seeing these beautiful, pristine islands – home to many parks and protected areas – from the air is indeed a highlight of your flightseeing trip by floatplane from Vancouver's Coal Harbour that takes you aloft for a bird's-eye view of the city and environs.

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Take The Details With You

Download day-by-day details.

All the information you need for this journey at your fingertips – day-by-day details, map, hotel descriptions, key highlights and more.

Where you stay is an important part of your journey – with Tauck, accommodations have been handpicked and carefully selected for their location and ambiance, enhancing the destinations you explore. Download accommodation details and your travel plans begin!

Tour Planner

Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

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Overnight Accommodations

Extend your stay

Arrive Early

Fairmont waterfront, vancouver.

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

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Rocky Mountaineer Assigned Hotel

Kamloops Region

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Jasper, Alberta, Canada

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada

Fairmont Banff Springs

Banff, Alberta, Canada

Your Journey

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey to enter Canada. Click here for more information on the U.S. Department of Customs and Border Patrol website.

If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not require a visa for the short duration of this tour. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation. If you are a frequent traveler to Canada from the U.S., you may benefit from the NEXUS program which is a joint initiative between the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency and the Canada Border Services Agency that allows pre-screened and approved travelers faster processing at designated highway lanes in high-volume border crossing locations, at a NEXUS kiosk at several airports, and at certain marine reporting locations in the Great Lakes and Seattle regions. For further information, you may log on to the Nexus Internet site by clicking here .

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact a consulate or embassy of Canada to determine what travel documentation is required.

Anyone with a criminal record (including some misdemeanors such as Driving While Impaired (DWI) charges) may be excluded or removed from Canada, and should contact a Canadian embassy or consulate well in advance of any planned travel to ensure proper travel documentation.

We strongly recommend that your passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour. In addition, we recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $525 per person

Final Payment:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  90  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Travel Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON up to the day before departure and receive a money-back refund (except in Extreme Circumstances*) on the land tour cost, based on your original method of payment.

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.

Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  If you must cancel your tour due to a covered reason, the plan provides coverage for the amount you paid for your travel arrangements. Since the non-insurance cancellation waiver takes care of the land package cancellation fees already, this benefit reimburses the airfare cancellation charges up to the value of your original airfare purchase.
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement for up to $5,000 to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Guest Protection is: $449  per person

This protection provides insurance coverage that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Guest Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included with initial payment. Fees are based on costs as of July 1. 2021, and are subject to change. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your tour reservation. Guest Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

The Guest Protection plan waives cancellation fees outlined below, provided we are notified of cancellation before your tour departs. Tour cancellation fees are waived regardless of reason, without written notice, and Tauck will refund land tour cost.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACGPPDOM .

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees. If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Guest Protection Plan:

Loss of Guest Protection fee, per person

Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Guest Protection Plan :

90 days or more before departure = $525 per person

89-8 days before departure = $925 per person

7-1 days before departure = $1500 per person

Time of cancellation  will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control,  Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation terms outlined herein.

Note:  All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Fee Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Guest Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico. 

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm). Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey.

Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences. Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage – General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc. For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Smoking is not permitted on the motor coaches or onboard The Canadian or in any of the hotels.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of the U.S. traveling internationally, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to Canada. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The CDC operates a 24-hour travelers' information number at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country traveling internationally, please contact an embassy or consulate of Canada to determine what vaccinations may be required for you to visit.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

To enjoy this tour, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. The amount of walking you do, however, is at your discretion.

Several modes of transportation are used on this tour – motor coach, ferry, float plane and train. In general, this itinerary is recommended for those who have little if any difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or balancing onboard a moving train. Walking is also affected by weather conditions which do vary greatly and can involve snow, ice, and mud.

Regarding Wheelchairs - If you require a wheelchair while traveling, you must meet the specifications of each of the tour's suppliers including the motor coach, ferry, float plane and train. You may bring a collapsible, lightweight wheelchair on tour that weighs less than 100 lbs (45.4 kg), but you must be able to maneuver on and off the coach with limited assistance. We strongly recommend that if you require a wheelchair for travel or have moderate to severe difficulty walking that you bring a companion to assist you. Before you book this tour, you will need to provide us with the exact specifications of the wheelchair, including: size, model, and all components that accompany it to determine its motor coach storage capabilities.

Rocky Mountaineer has a lift to move between the upper level, where the dome car is located and the lower level, where the dining room is located.

  Regarding Oxygen - If you require portable oxygen while traveling, you will be responsible for any maintenance and operation that the tank requires while on tour, and for locating health facilities on the tour route that can perform tank maintenance. If you choose to bring a tank on tour, you will need to provide us the exact specifications of the tank, including size, model, and all components that accompany it prior to booking the tour to determine motor coach storage capabilities. You may inquire about having them filled at a hospital in Vancouver, Banff or Jasper (there is no hospital in Lake Louise), but tank maintenance facilities are limited in the Canadian Rockies.

Vancouver General Hospital : 855 West 12th Avenue, Vancouver, B.C, Canada V5Z 1M9. Phone: (604) 875-4111

Seaton General Hospital : Box 310, 518 Robson Street, Jasper, Alberta T0E 1E0.

Phone: (780) 852-3344. Fax: (780) 852-3413

Banff Mineral Springs Hospital : 305 Lynx Street, Banff, Alberta, Canada TIL1H7.

Phone: (403) 760-7214

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The summer weather in the Canadian Rockies can change instantly and is often unpredictable as in any mountainous region. From June through early September, normal temperatures range from 50 to 80˚F (10 to 27˚C). However, the Canadian Rockies could experience some unusually warm weather (80 to 90˚F) (26 to 32˚C) during the summer months. Therefore, we suggest including some light warm weather clothing in your travel wardrobe. Conditions are often very local and can change radically from one valley to the next, or change during the course of the day. Due to its geographic location, Western Canada generally has long hours of daylight and in mid-summer the sun will rise as early as 5:00 a.m. and set as late as 10:00 p.m. In the early spring and fall, daylight hours average about 14 hours, from 6:30 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. Rainfall is greatest by the ocean in Vancouver and lighter in the interior portions of the Canadian Rockies.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

What To Pack

When joining a Tauck journey, every guest is responsible for their own health and, in turn, the protection of their fellow travelers, the Tauck staff, our suppliers and the places we visit. As such, you are expected to follow local and supplier guidelines regarding face coverings, as explained by your Tauck Director. Our partners may have a limited supply of face coverings, gloves, and hand sanitizer, so please bring such personal items for your own comfort.

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is adaptable and allows for layering. Generally, during the day, casual, comfortable, cotton clothing is recommended. Cool weather at higher elevations or at night will require warmer, layered clothing. During the evenings some dining rooms require smart casual attire for dinner (no jeans) and some fine dining rooms recommend jackets for the gentlemen, but they are not required.

You will find a hair dryer located in your hotel guest room. Irons and ironing boards are available upon request. Valet laundry and dry cleaning services are also available for a fee at all the Fairmont Hotels on this itinerary.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

We suggest that you pack the following items your journey:

• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Binoculars (7x50 preferably)
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Hiking boots if you would like to hike on some of the more extensive trails
• Travel alarm clock/ cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your hotel room while traveling

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Classic Rocky Mountain Rail Circle Tour | Rocky Mountaineer

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INTRODUCTION

Travel aboard our iconic 8-Day Rocky Mountain Train Trip from Vancouver.

This circle train tour travels along both popular rail routes with stops in kamloops, banff, lake louise and jasper with silver or goldleaf service on rocky mountaineer., not only do you stay in the best places the canadian rockies, you also have the freedom of choice of tours in both banff and jasper, an ice explorer ride on the athabasca glacier in lake louise and plenty of wildlife viewing of grizzly bears, moose, elk and more. , this is eight straight days of authentic canadian adventure, personalized to your preferences. .

Itinerary at a Glance

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1 Vancouver to Kamloops | Rocky Mountaineer All aboard Rocky Mountaineer for the scenic rail journey to Kamloops in the interior of British Columbia. Pass through the rich fields of the Fraser River Valley and the towering peaks of the Coastal Mountains before entering the Fraser Canyon. Follow the Thompson River through spectacular landscapes to historic Kamloops. (breakfast & lunch is included today)

Day 2 Kamloops to Banff | Rocky Mountaineer Back on-board the Rocky Mountaineer following the South Thompson River to Shuswap Lake with its thousand miles of shoreline. Pass Craigellachie, where the ‘last spike’ was driven completing the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1885. Enter Rogers Pass, with its tunnels, snow-sheds and glistening Glaciers. The Kicking Horse river leads you to Kicking Horse Pass, the Spiral Tunnels and over the Continental Divide to Banff, and Banff National Park. (breakfast & lunch is included today)

Day 3 Banff | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 5 Excursions Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of these excursions. Option 1. Discover Banff & Its Wildlife Tour + Banff Gondola Discover Banff's natural wonders on this half-day, small-group tour. Marvel at sights like Bow Falls, Hoodoos rock formation, and Lake Minnewanka. Conclude your exploration with a relaxing gondola ride to Sulphur Mountain's peak, maximizing your views of Banff National Park effortlessly. Enjoy the enchanting beauty of these landmarks with minimum exertion. Option 2. Banff National Park Explorer Moraine Lake & Lake Louise | Small Group Tour with Picnic Lunch Join this small group tour for a curated experience of Banff National Park's highlights, with the added chance to spot wildlife through expert local guidance. Enjoy unhindered access to Moraine Lake & Lake Louise, spending over 11/2 hours at each, discovering hidden gems and serene trails. The final phase of the tour is tailor-made in Banff by your guide, considering recent wildlife sightings and your interests, ensuring the day concludes on a high note. Option 3. Rockies Hidden Gems Yoho & Kootenay National Parks | Small Group Tour with Picnic Lunch Avoid the crowds with this full-day adventure in the Kootenay and Yoho National Parks, featuring picturesque waterfalls and Canadian Rockies views. Start with a relaxing stroll in Kootenay National Park's Marble Canyon, marveling at turquoise glacial waters and striking canyon walls. Enjoy Emerald Lake's neon blue waters, where optional canoe rentals, hiking trails, and lakeside picnics are available. The day concludes with a visit to Canada's 2nd tallest waterfall, Takakkaw Falls, accessible through backroads offering mountain vistas and wildlife sightings. Option 4. Cowboy Horseback Cookout BBQ Lunch or Dinner Saddle up for a ride along the Bow River in Banff and a Western style cookout. Choose from riding on horseback or in a covered wagon through the beautiful Rocky Mountain terrain. Option 5. Signature Guided Hike | Small Group Hike with Picnic Lunch Experience the best of Rocky Mountain National Parks' backcountry with our curated hiking tours. Revel in spring's wildflowers, summer's clear glacier views, and the golden hues of fall's larch trees. Our passionate local guides will lead you on classic hikes in the Banff and Lake Louise area, including Stanley Glacier, Larch Valley, Kootenay National Park Trails, and Plain of 6 Glaciers. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty across seasons in the Rockies.

Day 4 Banff to Lake Louise | Coach Depart Banff early afternoon for a short drive via the scenic Bow Valley to Lake Louise.

Day 5 Lake Louise to Jasper | Sightseeing with picnic lunch Your sightseeing tour today will encompass the ultimate glacier exploration as you travel along the spectacular Icefields Parkway. From walking on ancient ice with the Ice Explorer ride (included), to standing on a glass platform almost one thousand feet in the air at the Glacier Skywalk (included), today’s experiences will leave you with a special appreciation for this treasured region of the Rockies (picnic lunch included today)

Day 6 Jasper | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 5 Excursions Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of these excursions Option 1. Morning Maligne Valley with Medicine Lake Tour Experience the most incredible sights in Jasper National Park’s Maligne Valley during this guided excursion to the region’s most scenic lakes & majestic canyons, enjoy a gentle guided walk along the shores of this pristine lake. Option 2. Evening Discover Jasper & its Wildlife Admire diverse animal life in the Canadian wilderness on this evening wildlife tour. Delve into Jasper National Park with your guide. Travel through the mighty Athabasca Valley and marvel at the park’s beautiful landscapes by twilight. Option 3. Gentle Raft Float on the Athabasca River Experience Jasper National Park's natural beauty with a small group float trip on the Athabasca River. Cover several miles on Class II rapids, offering mild excitement with a few splashes. Enjoy your guide's engaging storytelling about local history and wildlife throughout this gentle adventure. Option 4. Maligne Canyon Hiking Tour Embark on a stunning hike in Jasper National Park, exploring the deepest accessible canyon in the Canadian Rockies. Learn about the Maligne Valley, Karst topography, and the mysterious disappearing Medicine Lake. Enjoy breathtaking views of rushing rapids and waterfalls along the canyon's five bridges. An added bonus is the shuttle service back to the top, saving you from a steep uphill hike. Option 5. Upgrade Option: Maligne Valley Sightseeing + Boat Cruise This Jasper tour starts with a brief town overview before crossing the Athabasca River to Maligne Lake. Discover the majestic Maligne Canyon's waterfalls and the enigmatic "disappearing" Medicine Lake. The highlight is a trip to stunning Maligne Lake, including an interpretative boat cruise to Spirit Island. Experience firsthand the beauty that captured adventurer Mary Schaeffer's heart a century ago, and has since become world-renowned.

Day 7 Jasper to Kamloops | Rocky Mountaineer All aboard Rocky Mountaineer for a scenic rail journey to Kamloops in the interior of British Columbia. Leaving Jasper National Park, travel the ‘Yellowhead’ route past the sprawling grandeur of Mount Robson ‘the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and follow the mighty Thompson River, the route of early fur traders, before arriving in Kamloops. (breakfast & lunch is included today)

Day 8 Kamloops to Vancouver | Rocky Mountaineer Leaving Kamloops, follow the Thompson River through Ashcroft, one of Canada’s driest towns, with an average rainfall of just 18 centimetres. Pass through Rainbow Canyon, named for its cliffs striped with pinks, greens and greys creating a stunning rainbow effect. Continue on to the Fraser Canyon, where at Hell’s Gate watch water torrent past the canyon walls at its narrowest point. The last leg of the journey takes you through the fertile farming region of the Fraser Valley to arrive in the Pacific port of Vancouver late afternoon. (breakfast & lunch is included today)

Package Includes:

• 4 days on board Rocky Mountaineer Train: Vancouver to Banff | Jasper to Vancouver
• 2 nights accommodation in Kamloops provided by Rocky Mountaineer
• 2 nights accommodation in Banff
• 1 night accommodation in Lake Louise
• 2 nights accommodation in Jasper
• Transfer between hotel & rail station in Banff & Jasper
• Discover Banff & Its Wildlife Tour + Banff Gondola
• Banff National Park Explorer Moraine Lake & Lake Louise | Small Group Tour with Picnic Lunch
• Rockies Hidden Gems Yoho & Kootenay National Parks | Small Group Tour with Picnic Lunch
• Cowboy Horseback Cookout BBQ Lunch or Dinner
• Signature Guided Hike | Small Group Hike with Picnic Lunch
• Coach transfer between Banff & Lake Louise
• Full day tour between Jasper and Lake Louise with picnic lunch included
• Ice Explorer ride onto Athabasca Glacier
• Morning Maligne Valley with Medicine Lake Tour
• Evening Discover Jasper & its Wildlife
• Gentle Raft Float on the Athabasca River
• Maligne Canyon Hiking Tour
• Upgrade Option: Maligne Valley Sightseeing + Boat Cruise
• Meals as per itinerary
• National Park fees

Hotel & Rail Information | Moderate Grade

• Rocky Mountaineer Train | SilverLeaf Service
• Kamloops - Moderate Hotel | Provided by Rocky Mountaineer
• Jasper - Moderate Hotel | Standard Room
• Lake Louise - Lake Louise Inn | Summit Deluxe Queen Room
• Banff -Elk+Avenue Hotel | Standard Room

Hotel & Rail Information | Superior Grade

• Jasper - Forest Park Hotel | Woodland Balcony or Alpine Room
• Lake Louise - Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Fairmont Room
• Banff - Banff Caribou Lodge | Superior Room

Hotel & Rail Information | Deluxe Grade

• Rocky Mountaineer Train | GoldLeaf Service
• Jasper - Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Deluxe Room
• Lake Louise - Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Fairmont Lakeview Room
• Banff - Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel | Deluxe Room

Hotel & Rail Information | Deluxe Plus Grade

• Jasper - Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Premier Deluxe Room
• Lake Louise - Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Deluxe Lakeview Room
• Banff - Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel | Deluxe Mountain View Room

Not Included

• Activities other than specified
• Meals other than specified
• Portage fees

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

Arrange a call with a Canada Travel Designer and bring your vacation one step closer!

DATES & PRICING

Departs from Vancouver: Monday & Friday (Tour Code: TR250)

STAY AT THESE HOTELS ON THIS VACATION

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Days / Nights

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Banff Caribou Lodge

Lake Louise Inn

Forest Park Hotel Jasper

Elk Avenue Hotel

Lobstick Lodge

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Start planning your tailor-made vacation to canada or alaska by contacting our travel specialists.

Michele MacDonald

Travel Designer

Kaitlyn Joaquin

Julia Moioli

Customer Experience Manager

Julie McAulay

Caitlin Volkert

Emma McCarthy

Call +1 604 639 9868 World

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Classic Rail Circle

Classic rail circle - 9 nights.

This Vancouver round-trip package includes some ocean views and rugged terrain, with a total of three nights in Jasper, in the Canadian Rockies. Included is the luxury of 4 days and 3.5 hours onboard the Rocky Mountaineer train in GoldLeaf service. The Vancouver and Jasper tours are sightseeing by motorcoach. Please note that this package does not include the Icefields Parkway or Banff National Park, both of which we highly recommend if you have not visited here before. A range of hotel options are available. If any part is not suitable, let us know as we can easily make changes.

If you would like to see more of the Canadian Rockies from Vancouver, we suggest these alternative Vancouver round-trip packages:

• Grand Rail Circle (12 nights)
• Golden Circle (11 nights)
• Canadian Rockies Circle (9 nights)
• Canadian Rockies Getaway Circle (8 nights)
• Canadian Rockies Escape Circle (6 nights)

Rocky Mountaineer Train Quote

Itinerary Summary

What is included, package includes:.

• 4 days Rocky Mountaineer Train (GoldLeaf Service only)
• 3.5 hour Rocky Mountaineer Train (GoldLeaf Service only)
• 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches (onboard trains)
• 9 nights hotel accommodation (as specified in quote)
• North Shore Tour with Capilano Suspension Bridge and Grouse Mountain
• Jasper Nature Tour
• Rocky Mountaineer onboard train host gratuities
• Rail station transfers in Whistler, Quesnel, Jasper, Kamloops and Vancouver

Our quotes do not include (unless specified):

• Transportation from/to Vancouver airport
• Meals, other than specified
• Activities, other than specified
• Gratuities for hotel and transfer staff

Note: For your convenience, our quoted rates include all tax.

Detailed itinerary - 2025, sun - vancouver arrival.

Arrive in Vancouver and spend time exploring this scenic city on your own. Overnight in Vancouver.

MON - Vancouver Sightseeing

Enjoy a six-hour sightseeing tour of Vancouver’s spectacular North Shore. Travel across the Lions Gate Bridge and into the Coast Mountains. Experience the Capilano Suspension Bridge and Treetops Adventure, discovering the coastal temperate rainforest and British Columbia’s Indigenous heritage. Next, visit Grouse Mountain (gondola admission included), the Peak of Vancouver, and take in breathtaking views of the city, ocean, and surrounding mountains. Overnight in Vancouver.

TUE - Vancouver to Kamloops - Rocky Mountaineer Train

Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the coastal city of Vancouver to Kamloops, in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. On today’s journey you will see dramatic changes in scenery, from the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley, through forests and winding river canyons surrounded by the peaks of the Coast and Cascade Mountains, to the desert-like environment of the BC interior. Highlights include the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River. Your day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along the shores of Kamloops Lake into Kamloops. Overnight in Kamloops. B, L.

WED - Kamloops to Jasper - Rocky Mountaineer Train

Your journey continues north and east to the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta. Once again you will be surrounded by dramatic scenery as you follow the banks of the North Thompson River through the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains, climbing ever nearer to the high peaks of the Continental Divide. Today’s highlights include Mount Robson, at 3,954 metres (12,972 feet) the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Pyramid Falls, and the climb over the Yellowhead Pass into Jasper National Park. Your rail journey ends this evening on arrival in the resort town of Jasper. Overnight in Jasper. B, L.

THU - Jasper Nature Tour

Jasper National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the Canadian Rockies’ largest national park. Today you will enjoy a scenic full-day tour of some of the park’s natural attractions and rugged peaks, and perhaps catch a glimpse of the wildlife that calls this region home. Highlights include lunch and a lake cruise at historic Maligne Lake. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore more of Jasper independently. Overnight in Jasper. L. Note: In the event the lake cruise is not operating, interpretive experiences will be offered on First Nations history, foods and culture.

FRI - Free Day in Jasper

Today you will have an entire day to spend exploring Jasper National Park on your own. A wealth of optional activities (not included) abound: taking the Jasper Skytram to the high alpine of Whistlers Mountain, enjoying a nature walk on nearby mountain trails or playing a round of golf at The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (seasonal). Overnight in Jasper.

SAT - Jasper to Quesnel - Rocky Mountaineer Train

Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the mountain resort of Jasper in the Canadian Rockies to the charming rural town of Quesnel, gateway to the North Cariboo. Pass through the Rocky Mountain Trench, with the steep Rocky and Cariboo Mountains either side, and on to the rolling hills and vast forests of British Columbia’s Northern Interior. Highlights include Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Yellowhead Pass and Moose Lake. Your day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer passes through the town of Prince George and follows the Fraser River into Quesnel. Overnight in Quesnel. B, L.

SUN - Quesnel to Whistler - Rocky Mountaineer Train

Your journey continues Southwestward today to the four-season resort of Whistler, host of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games alpine events. Enjoy breathtaking and varied scenery, from the desert- like conditions of the Fraser Canyon, through the rolling hills and vast ranchlands of the Cariboo Plateau, to the river canyons and lush farmland of the Pemberton Valley. Highlights include sweeping views of the Fraser Canyon, the crossing of Deep Creek Bridge, one of the highest railway bridges in the world, and the shorelines of glacial-fed Seton Lake and Anderson Lake. Overnight in Whistler. B, L.

MON - Whistler to Vancouver - Rocky Mountaineer Train (3.5 hours)

The morning is free to explore Whistler Village at your leisure. This afternoon return to Vancouver onboard the Rocky Mountaineer through the stunning scenery of the Sea to Sky Corridor. Highlights of the trip include the Cheakamus Canyon, the dome peak of Mount Garibaldi, Brandywine Falls, and breathtaking views of Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains. An afternoon meal is served canapé style. Your rail journey ends today on arrival in Vancouver. At the North Vancouver train platform, you will be transferred to your accommodation in downtown Vancouver. Overnight in Vancouver.

TUE - Vancouver Departure

Your journey ends upon checkout from your Vancouver hotel.

Detailed Itinerary - 2024

Thu - vancouver arrival, fri - vancouver sightseeing, sat - vancouver to whistler - rocky mountaineer train (3.5 hours).

Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the coastal city of Vancouver to the resort town of Whistler, renowned for outstanding skiing and year-round outdoor activities. Following your check-in at and motorcoach transfer from your downtown Vancouver hotel, the Rocky Mountaineer takes you on a breathtaking rail journey through the stunning scenery of the Sea to Sky Corridor. Highlights of the trip include spectacular views of Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains, Brandywine Falls, Mount Garibaldi and the impressive Cheakamus Canyon. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. Overnight in Whistler. B.

SUN - Whistler to Quesnel - Rocky Mountaineer Train

Your journey continues eastward to the charming rural town of Quesnel, gateway to the North Cariboo. Enjoy breathtaking and varied scenery, from the river canyons and lush farmland of the Pemberton Valley, through the desert-like conditions of the Fraser Canyon, to rolling hills and vast ranchlands of the Cariboo Plateau. Highlights include the shorelines of Anderson Lake and glacier-fed Seton Lake, sweeping views of the Fraser Canyon, and the crossing of Deep Creek Bridge, one of the highest railway bridges in the world. Your day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer follows the banks of the Fraser River into Quesnel. Overnight in Quesnel. B, L.

MON - Quesnel to Jasper - Rocky Mountaineer Train

Your journey continues Eastward today to the majestic Canadian Rockies and Jasper National Park. From Quesnel, the Rocky Mountaineer follows the Fraser River north to the town of Prince George, then travels east through the forests of northern British Columbia, home to plentiful wildlife, including a large population of moose. Entering the Rocky Mountain Trench you are surrounded by the steeply rising Rocky Mountains to the north and the Cariboo Mountains to the south. Continue climbing past Mount Robson, at 3,954 metres (12,972 feet) the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, through Yellowhead Pass into the province of Alberta. Your rail journey ends today on arrival in Jasper. Overnight in Jasper. B, L.

TUE - Jasper Nature Tour

Wed - free day in jasper, thu - jasper to kamloops - rocky mountaineer train.

Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from Jasper in the Canadian Rockies to Kamloops, in the heart of the British Columbia Interior. As you journey west and south you will be surrounded by the dramatic scenery of the Continental Divide and by the river valleys of the Monashee and Cariboo Mountains. Today’s highlights include Mount Robson, Pyramid Falls, the climb over Yellowhead Pass, and the journey along the North Thompson River as you approach Kamloops. Overnight in Kamloops. B, L.

FRI - Kamloops to Vancouver - Rocky Mountaineer Train

Your journey continues west towards the Pacific Ocean and the coastal city of Vancouver. On today’s journey you will again see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the Interior, through winding river canyons and pristine forests, to the Coast and Cascade Mountains and the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley. Highlights include the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River and the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon. Your rail journey ends on arrival in Vancouver this evening. Overnight in Vancouver. B, L.

SAT - Vancouver Departure

Departure dates: 2025 and 2024.

This package starts in Vancouver on Sundays in 2025 and on Thursdays in 2024 from late April through until late September.

In 2025 the earliest start date is 20th April, 2025, and the latest is 28th September, 2025

In 2024 the earliest start date is 25th april, 2024, and the latest is 3rd october, 2024, prices: 2025 and 2024.

For package rates in 2025, please contact us for more information. You can also view the rail only pricing online.

For package rates in 2024, please contact us for more information. You can also view the rail only pricing online.

Prices depend on the time of year you travel, the hotels you stay in and the level of service you choose onboard the Rocky Mountaineer train (GoldLeaf service only for this package).

Let our Rocky Mountaineer specialist make the best choices for you, based on your preferences, to ensure you are not paying more than you need to for your Rocky Mountain train vacation.

Promotional bonus offers are added automatically to your quote from us (if applicable).

Obtain a Quote

If you would like a full quote for this package, be sure to include the package name in your quote request.

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About Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer Train

The award winning Rocky Mountaineer train is the only all-daylight train through the Canadian Rockies and operates from April, through until October.

Onboard Service Levels

Onboard the Rocky Mountaineer trains, there are two levels of service to choose from:

2024 Rocky Mountaineer Rail Vacations

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Denver to Moab Train

Moab to denver train, vancouver round trip, grand rail circle - 12 nights, golden circle - 11 nights, canadian rockies circle - 9 nights, canadian rockies getaway - 8 nights, canadian rockies escape - 6 nights, calgary round trip, rockies & vancouver island - 10 nights, vancouver one way, rgr at leisure - 10 nights, rgr top leisure - 10 nights, outdoor adventures vacation - 10 nights, fpw & victoria, vancouver island - 9 nights, jtc top leisure - 9 nights, jtc at leisure - 9 nights, rgr explorer - 8 nights, rgr top explorer - 8 nights, rgr discovery self-drive - 8 nights, fpw at leisure - 7 nights, fpw top leisure - 7 nights, fpw at great leisure - 7 nights, jtc explorer - 7 nights, jtc great explorer - 7 nights, jtc top explorer - 7 nights, jtc discovery self-drive - 7 nights, fpw highlights with tour - 6 nights, fpw top highlights with tour - 6 nights, jtc excursion - 6 nights, fpw highlights - 5 nights, fpw connector to jasper - 5 nights, fpw discovery self-drive - 5 nights, fpw excursion - 4 nights, rgr classic - 4 nights, fpw classic to banff - 3 nights, fpw classic to lake louise - 3 nights, jtc classic - 3 nights, book with confidence.

Holiday Experiences in Canada

Below are vacation experiences which can be taken with or without the Rocky Mountaineer train:

Cruise Holidays to Alaska

Via rail train holidays in canada, coach holidays in canada, self-drive holidays in canada, private suv holidays, summer holidays in canada, ski holidays in canada, day tours in canada, western canada locations.

Click on the links below for more general information on any of the locations:

Banff Information

Canmore information, lake louise information, jasper information, kicking horse information, fernie information, kimberley information, whistler information, vancouver information, calgary information.

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• 4 Day Tour: Rockies Passage
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Rocky Mountaineer Vancouver to Lake Louise and Banff (2 Days)

The first passage to the west route.

The world-famous Rocky Mountaineer is truly the trip of a lifetime. This luxury sightseeing train travels exclusively through the Canadian Rockies by daylight, slowing to highlight natural marvels. While indulging in hand-crafted, local cuisine, top-shelf beverages, and endless snacks and treats, you will hear Rocky Mountaineer’s professional guides illuminate Western Canada’s storied history and highlight its unforgettable natural beauty. The Rocky Mountaineer stops overnight in the lake town of Kamloops so guests can sleep comfortably at their hotel and get ready for the rest of their adventure.

For more information on the service levels and inclusions onboard, visit:

Instructions:

The evening prior to your train departure, you may visit one of the Rocky Mountaineer Guest Centres listed below to check-in for your train journey. This process is not mandatory, but at these locations, you will receive your boarding pass, luggage tags, and the name of your Kamloops accommodation. This is also a good time to confirm the time and pick-up location for the morning transfer, as well as your drop-off location at the end of the two-day train journey. This process should take no longer than 15 minutes to complete.

Rocky Mountaineer Guest Centre Locations in Vancouver

The following locations in Vancouver offer Rocky Mountaineer Check-In prior to your train departure day.

Fairmont Hotel Vancouver

Check-in is available at the Discovery Foyer on level 1.

Sunday: 11:00 – 18:00 PM Monday: 11:00 – 18:00 PM Tuesday: N/A Wednesday: N/A Thursday: 11:00 – 18:00 PM Friday: 16:00 – 18:00 PM Saturday: N/A

For more information on the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, click below:

Fairmont Waterfront

Check-in is available on the Concourse Level – take elevator to “C”.

Sunday: 15:00 – 18:00 PM Monday: 15:00 – 18:00 PM Tuesday: N/A Wednesday: N/A Thursday: 15:00 – 18:00 PM Friday: 16:00 – 18:00 PM Saturday: N/A

For more information on the Fairmont Waterfront, click below:

Georgian Court Hotel

Ask front desk for check-in location.

Sunday: 15:00 – 18:00 PM Monday: 15:00 – 18:00 PM Tuesday: N/A Wednesday: N/A Thursday: 15:00 – 18:00 PM Friday: N/A Saturday: N/A

For more information on the Georgian Court Hotel, click below:

Hampton Inn & Suites

Check-in is available in the 3rd floor dining room.

For more information on the Hampton Inn & Suites, click below:

Pan Pacific Hotel

Check-in is available by t aking the elevators to level “R”, and entering the Oceanview Suites area to room 485 .

Sunday: 10:30 – 18:00 PM Monday: 10:30 – 18:00 PM Tuesday: 10:30 – 18:00 PM Wednesday: 10:30 – 18:00 PM Thursday: 10:30 – 18:00 PM Friday: 10:30 – 18:00 PM Saturday: 10:30 – 18:00 PM

For more information on the Pan Pacific Hotel, click below:

Sheraton Wall Centre Hotel

Check-in is available in the North Tower at the Hornby Street level.

For more information on the Sheraton Wall Centre Hotel, click below:

Sutton Place Hotel

Check-in is available in the lobby.

For more information on the Sutton Place Hotel, click below:

If you are not staying at one of the above hotels, or are unable to visit one of the Rocky Mountaineer Guest Centres during the available time, you may also:

Check-in prior to the morning transfer. *See below for pick up times

Check-in online 72 hours prior to your train departure: CHECK-IN

Call the Rocky Mountaineer Guest Experience Centre: 1 800 653 4105

You will need to provide your Rocky Mountaineer Booking Reference Number , which you will find on the travel itinerary provided to you by email. This number is typically three letters followed by seven numbers and is found at the top left of page one. Example:

BOOKING REF: WHS1234567

*If you are travelling on a Circle Journey, you will be on a different train for the second leg of the rail journey, and will therefore need to repeat this process again the night before that train departs.

Rocky Mountaineer Pick Up Locations in Vancouver

The following locations in Vancouver offer transfers to the Rocky Mountaineer the morning of departure.

Pick-Up Time: 6:55 AM Please be ready in the hotel lobby at the Concierge Desk at 6:55 AM. Your transfer will pick you up between 6:55 AM and 7:25 AM.

Fairmont Pacific Rim

Pick-Up Time: 6:55 AM Please be ready in the hotel lobby at 6:55 AM. Your transfer will pick you up between 6:55 AM and 7:25 AM.

For more information on the Fairmont Pacific Rim, click below:

Pick-Up Time: 6:55 AM Please be ready in the hotel lobby at the counter to the right of the Concierge Desk at 6:55 AM. Your transfer will pick you up between 6:55 AM and 7:25 AM.

Pick-Up Time: 6:55 AM Please be ready at the hotel entrance near the Bell Desk at 6:55 AM. Your transfer will pick you up between 6:55 AM and 7:25 AM.

Pick-Up Time: 6:55 AM Please be ready in the hotel lobby of the South Tower at 6:55 AM. Your transfer will pick you up between 6:55 AM and 7:25 AM.

Daily Itinerary:

Transfer to Rocky Mountaineer: 06:55 - 07:25 AM (PT)

Please make your way to the pick-up location with your luggage prior to the time shown. Please ensure your luggage is clearly labeled with your name and contact information. If you have not yet checked-in in person or online, check-in must be completed at least 5 minutes prior to your scheduled pick-up window. Your transfer will depart within the 30-minute time frame noted.

If you do not have a hotel transfer included and are planning to make your own way to the station, please arrive at the Rocky Mountaineer station for check-in between 06:45 and 07:15 AM PT. The station address is 1755 Cottrell Street.

Vancouver Hotel Pick Up Times:

Fairmont Hotel Vancouver: 06:55 – 07:25 AM Fairmont Pacific Rim: 06:55 – 07:25 AM  Fairmont Waterfront Hotel: 06:55 – 07:25 AM Georgian Court Hotel: 06:55 – 07:25 AM Hampton Inn & Suites: 06:55 – 07:25 AM Pan Pacific Vancouver: 06:55 – 07:25 AM Sheraton Wall Centre: 06:55 – 07:25 AM Sutton Place Hotel: 06:55 – 07:25 AM

Rocky Mountaineer departs Vancouver: 08:00 AM (PT)

Following the transfer to the station, the train will depart at 08:00 AM PT. Travel onboard the Rocky Mountaineer from the coastal city of Vancouver to Kamloops, located in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. You will be served a gourmet breakfast and lunch onboard the train which are made to order. You will also receive complimentary snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the rail journey. In the event that the train is running behind schedule, an additional dinner service may be provided at your seat.

Your checked luggage will travel separately from the train and will be waiting for you in your assigned room at your Kamloops accommodation. Please note there is no overhead or under-seat storage so any items that you carry onboard must fit at your feet.

The expected arrival time in Kamloops will be between 18:15 – 19:30 PM (PT).

Arrival in Kamloops: 18:15 - 19:30 PM (PT)

Upon arrival at the Kamloops train siding, you will be transferred by motorcoach to your overnight accommodation which is provided by Rocky Mountaineer. While onboard the motorcoach to your assigned hotel you will receive your room keys so that you may skip check-in and head straight to your room where your luggage will be waiting for you. You will also be given additional instructions for your luggage the next morning.

Your accommodation in Kamloops will be of a moderate standard but will include all the essential amenities to make your short overnight stay comfortable.

To see our restaurant recommendations in Kamloops, visit here: City of Kamloops

When passing through the hotel lobby, please take note of the pick-up time for tomorrow morning’s motorcoach transfer from your Kamloops hotel to the train station. The pick-up time is generally between 05:45 – 06:00 AM (PT) but you will need to reconfirm as it is subject to change.

Transfer to Rocky Mountaineer: 05:45 - 06:00 AM* (PT)

*Please confirm your pick up time the evening prior as it may vary from departure to departure.

Prior to meeting in the lobby for the transfer, your luggage will need to be picked up from your room. On the way to your Kamloops hotel the previous night, you will receive instructions for the time at which you should place your luggage in the hallway outside of your door.

If your luggage is not out by the specified time, a Rocky Mountaineer representative will come by and knock on your door to retrieve it. Your luggage will then be transported separately to your final destination for today’s journey – Lake Louise or Banff.

Rocky Mountaineer departs Kamloops: 06:45 AM* (PT)

The train will depart Kamloops around 06:45 AM PT*.

Spend another full day travelling onboard the Rocky Mountaineer to the majestic Canadian Rockies and complete the train portion of your journey in the location noted on your itinerary – Lake Louise or Banff.

You will once again be served a gourmet breakfast and lunch onboard the train which are made to order. You will also receive complimentary snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the rail journey. In the event that the train is running behind schedule, an additional dinner service may be provided at your seat.

*You will lose an hour on this day due the time change from Pacific Time (PT) to Mountain Time (MT).

The expected arrival time for those stopping in Lake Louise will be between 19:00 – 20:15 PM (MT)

The expected arrival time for those continuing on to Banff will be between 20:15 – 21:30 PM (MT)

Arrival in Lake Louise: 19:00 - 20:15 PM (MT)

When you arrive at your final destination for today’s journey and disembark the train, your luggage will be waiting on the motorcoach going to your assigned drop-off location. Shortly prior to the arrival of the train in Lake Louise or Banff, your onboard host will make an announcement with further instructions.

Should your assigned Drop-Off Location be different than your overnight accommodation, please ensure that you have collected your luggage from the motorcoach and are able to bring it with you as it may be a short walk or an additional taxi to your hotel. If time permits, your bus driver may be able to drop you off at your hotel.

Lake Louise Drop Off Locations

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Deer Lodge Lake Louise Inn Mountaineer Lodge Paradise Bungalows Post Hotel & Spa

*If you are not staying at one of the above hotel properties, please reconfirm with the Rocky Mountaineer representative where your drop-off location will be as alternative arrangements may have been made for you.

*If you have booked your Lake Louise hotel independently, you may need to take a taxi to your hotel unless Canada Rail or Rocky Mountaineer have specifically told you otherwise.

Arrival in Banff: 20:15 - 21:30 PM (MT)

Banff Drop Off Locations

Banff Caribou Lodge Banff Park Lodge Banff Ptarmigan Inn Elk + Avenue Hotel Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel Moose Hotel & Suites Mount Royal Hotel Peaks Hotel Rimrock Resort Hotel Royal Canadian Lodge Hotel Canoe & Suites +other non-partnered Banff hotels

*If you have booked your Banff hotel independently, you may need to take a taxi to your hotel unless Canada Rail or Rocky Mountaineer have specifically told you otherwise.

Things to Consider:

• Rocky Mountaineer’s staff will look after all of your needs while onboard, however, some requests cannot be accommodated such as seats, train coach location or first/ second meal times. Don’t worry, you’ll be treated like royalty onboard.
• Rail travel in North America is occasionally subject to unforeseen delays. While Rocky Mountaineer is treated as a priority on the train tracks it uses, regular delays do occur.
• In North America, it is acceptable to recognize good service in a tangible manner. Onboard the train, you will be surrounded by a team of people dedicated to service excellence. Their gratuities are pre-paid as part of your package price so tipping is not required while onboard. Please note: gratuities have not been pre-paid for the rest of your trip ie. for driver guides, tour escorts, hotel porterage, or any VIA Rail Services.
• British Columbia is on Pacific Standard Time (PT) and Alberta is on Mountain Standard Time (MT)

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Valleys & Peaks

Rocky mountaineer rail & coach tour (6 days / 5 nights), vancouver → jasper → banff → lake louise → vancouver.

Discover the Rockies like never before! Embark on our fully guided coach tour from Vancouver to Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking scenery and thrilling activities. On your return journey from Lake Louise to Vancouver, you’ll travel along the most scenic route provided by Rocky Mountaineer, ensuring awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. Get ready to be captivated by the beauty of the Rockies, and British Columbia on this incredible adventure.

FINAL CALL TO SAVE ON 2024 RAIL JOURNEYS

Extended the latest offer for just two more weeks. . Until June 14, save up to $1,200 per couple on all 2024 packages.

2025 Booking Bonus: Up To 1,200 per couple

• Tour Features
• Day 1 – 3: A fully guided motorcoach tour from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies, including Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise
• Day 4: Free day to explore Lake Louise at your leisure.
• Day 5 – 6: Rocky Mountaineer 2-day train trip from Lake Louise to Vancouver
• Hotel: 5 nights of hotel accommodation
• Meals:  5 breakfasts, 2 lunches
• Luggage handling: Kamloops
• Rail station transfers:  Lake Louise, Kamloops, and Vancouver
• Excursions/Activities**: Ice Explorer tour on Athabasca Glacier, Gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain / Swim in the Banff Upper Hot Springs
• Other: Toll fee & Park Pass
• Rail Service: GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf

Find out which 2024 & 2025 departures are eligible for a $1,200 booking bonus. Request a quote today . Book your 2024 tours using the following links and receive up to a $500 booking bonus.

• Departure Year

2024                   2025

2024 SILVERLEAF SERVICE

2024 GOLDLEAF SERVICE

*All Prices are in Canadian Dollars

• Hotels included
• Jasper : Whistlers Inn / Jasper Inn / Tonquin Inn  or similar
• Banff (2 nights):  Banff Aspen Lodge or similar
• Lake Louise:  Lake Louise Inn or Post Hotel
• Kamloops : Hotels are assigned by Rocky Mountaineer
• Jasper : Whistlers / Jasper Inn / Tonquin Inn or similar
• Banff (2 nights):  The Rimrock Resort Hotel (Deluxe View Room/Valley View Room) ** Fairmont Banff Springs may be available at additional cost
• Lake Louise:   Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (Fairmont Lakeview Room)
• Tour Schedule

2025 SILVERLEAF SERVICE

2025 GOLDLEAF SERVICE

• Please note that the arrival and departure times may vary.

Departure : 8:00 a m Arrival : 8:00 p m

Today, our coach will wind its way through the scenic farming communities of the Fraser Valley and the majestic Coastal Mountains as we journey toward the interior of British Columbia. Departing from Kamloops, we will follow the course of the Thompson River, taking in the breathtaking sight of the Albreda Glaciers before reaching the magnificent Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies.  Overnight in Jasper.

Departure : 8:00 am Arrival : 7:00 pm – 7:30 pm

Start your morning with a refreshing hike (optional) through the Maligne Canyon, a remarkable limestone gorge adorned with six narrow bridges and picturesque waterfalls. Continuing our journey south along the Icefield Parkway, often hailed as one of the most beautiful highways in the world, we will explore its must-see attractions, including Athabasca Falls, Peyto Lake (seasonal), and Castle Mountain. At the Columbia Icefield, ride the “Ice Explorer”** on Athabasca Glacier or visit the Glacier Skywalk**. Overnight in Banff. [B]

Departure : 8:00 a m Arrival : 7:00 p m

Prepare yourself for another exhilarating day of sightseeing and activities in Banff National Park. As we make our way to Lake Louise, we will pause at Johnston Canyon for a leisurely hike (optional) along the trail that guides us to the breathtaking Lower Falls. While at Lake Louise, you’ll find numerous viewpoints offering splendid photo opportunities of the majestic Victoria Glacier towering over the lake. In the afternoon, our adventure continues as we explore other notable attractions in the Rockies, including Moraine Lake (seasonal), Banff Springs Hotel, and Bow Falls Don’t forget to take advantage of the gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain** for a breathtaking panoramic view of Banff town and its surrounding or Upper Hot Springs for a soothing soak in the hot, mineral-rich water. Overnight in Banff  [B]

Make the most of a leisurely day to fully immerse yourself in the splendor of Lake Louise. Seize the opportunity to visit the stunning Lake Agnes, featuring charming teahouse nestled at an elevation of 2134 meters.Alternatively, opt for a gondola ride up the Lake Louise Ski Resort, treating yourself to a panoramic view of Lake Louise and its surroundings. Overnight in Lake Louise  [B]

Departure : 8:20 a m Arrival : 6:30 – 8:00 pm

Board the Rocky Mountaineer train at the Lake Louise Station at 8:30 am MT to travel from Lake Louise to Kamloops, located in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. Your journey takes you through a spectacular array of scenery as you travel between the glacier and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies, over mountain passes, and through remarkable tunnels, along rocky lakeshores and across the ranchlands of the interior. Today’s highlights include the Continental Divide, the Spiral Tunnels, the Kicking Horse Canyon, Rogers Pass, and Craigellachie where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven. You will arrive in Kamloops between 6:30 pm and 8:00 pm PT. Spend the evening exploring the city, or relaxing in your hotel. All hotels in Kamloops are of moderate standard: your hotel will be assigned post-booking. Overnight in Kamloops [B] [L]

Departure : 7:35 a m Arrival : 6:00 p m – 7:30 pm

Board the Rocky Mountaineer train at the Kamloops Station at 7:35 am PT. On today’s journey west, you will again see dramatic changes in scenery, from the desert-like environment of the Interior, through winding river canyons and pristine forests, to the Coast and Cascade Mountains and the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley. Breakfast and lunch will be served onboard. Highlights include the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River and the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon. You will arrive in Vancouver between 6:00 pm and 7:30 pm PT. [B] [L]

★★ For these optional activities, an additional fee will apply ★ Departure and arrival times may vary [B]  = Breakfast [L]  = Lunch [D]  = Dinner 

Premium Accommodation

• Jasper : Forrest Park Hotel/Jasper Inn/Tonquin Inn or similar
• Banff (2 nights):  The Rimrock Resort Hotel (Deluxe View Room/Valley View Room) ** Fairmont Banff Springs may be available at additional cost
• Lake Louise:  Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (Fairmont Lakeview Room)
• Kamloops : Hotels are assigned by Rocky Mountaineer

Standard Accommodation

• Jasper : Forrest Park Hotel/Jasper Inn/Tonquin Inn  or similar
• Banff (2 nights):  Aspen Lodge or similar
• Lake Louise: Lake Louise Inn or Post Hotel

Relax and enjoy unparalleled panoramic views from a custom-designed, two level, glass-domed GoldLeaf coach. Included is an outdoor viewing area and premium dining options prepared by on-board chefs.

Take in the awe-inspiring scenery through the windows of a custom-designed, single-level dome coach. Dinner will be served at your seat and complimentary snacks and beverages will be provided to you throughout the journey.

While you are on the tour, you have the chance to experience the unique beauty of the Rocky Mountains. Although optional, our mountain tour guides recommend following activities to enhance your Canadian Rockies experience:

– Columbia Ice Explorer Tour – Glacier Skywalk – Sulphur Mountain (Banff) Gondola Ride – Canoeing on Lake Louise – Upper Hot Springs

For more information on above activities (and their costs), click  HERE .

FAQ’S

Your tour includes 3 main components: Hotel accommodation, a Rocky Mountaineer Rail trip, and a Deluxe motorcoach tour. Tour cost is based on the choice of hotel stay (standard or deluxe), rail service (GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf), and room occupancy (Single, Double, Triple, or Quad).

Published rates are per person in Canadian dollars before tax.

Pent-up demand for 2023 Canadian vacations has been extremely high, and we highly recommend that you book your seats as early as possible

Key West Travel does not provide individual pick-ups to ensure our tours depart Vancouver on schedule. Our centralized pick-up location is at 655 Burrard Street, the Hyatt Regency Vancouver..

Standard hotels are mountain lodge-style while Premium Plus hotels are resort-style. The majority of our guests choose standard accommodation as these hotels are very clean and comfortable, and travelers will get their own private room and washroom. Travelers who book Premium Plus accommodation often do so because they want to stay at Chateau Lake Louise. If you want to book deluxe accommodation, be sure to book early as these hotels sell out quickly – availability is limited within 6 months of departure!

Gratuities are not included in the prices, except for onboard the Rocky Mountaineer. It is customary to tip for excellent service in Canada.

Please refer to the itinerary for Rocky Mountaineer info. As for the motorcoach tour, this depends on the day. If you are traveling from Vancouver to Jasper or Banff, it will be a minimum of 10 hours. However, every 2-3 hours, you get out of the bus for mini breaks. During the sightseeing days, you will spend little time on the bus as you will be walking/sightseeing/hiking & etc.

“Excellent tour and saw amazing places and experienced lovely things. It met our needs of visiting the Rockies and was well priced for what it had offered. Well worth the money. Brad was very well spoken and knowledgeable with all the information he provided. He knew his information/history and provided us with all necessary information. Len was very friendly and professional one of the best drivers from a tour company we have experienced .”

 Ronald & Amanda Mallia – Swansea,  NSW, Australia

Train From Vancouver To Banff: How To Take This Scenic, Bucket-List Journey

• Travel in style on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff and see Canada's incredible natural beauty and rich history firsthand.
• Marvel at breathtaking sceneries, hand-crafted regional fare, and plush reclining chairs while traversing Kamloops en route to Banff.
• Timing of travel on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff is crucial - choose the best season based on your trip preferences and potential cost savings.

Vancouver is heavily populated by laid-back and environmentally conscious people and is situated directly on the coast of British Columbia. The legendary resort town of Banff , located in the adjacent province of Alberta, is renowned for its mountainous landscape, turquoise waterways, and some of the nation's greatest skiing and other outdoor activities.

With a height of 4,537 feet (1383 meters) , Banff also happens to be Canada's highest town. The 560 miles (900 kilometers) that separate these two Canadian locations traverse three mesmerizing mountain ranges: the Coast, Columbia, and Rocky Mountains.

From Vancouver, visitors may choose to fly, brave the Canadian motorways, or even board a train that passes through some of the country's most breathtaking scenery on its journey to Banff. Visitors can see the Canadian wilderness up close by taking the train from Vancouver to Banff.

UPDATE: 2024/05/09 21:04 EST BY ERYNN RUIZ

This feature has been refreshed throughout with current links, pricing information, and insights into the train experience while traveling from Vancouver to Banff.

Rocky Mountaineer: A Journey From Vancouver To Banff

Hop aboard the rocky mountaineer for a scenic trip all the way to banff.

The renowned Rocky Mountaineer is undoubtedly a once-in-a-lifetime experience — it's also worth the investment, though there are ways to make the trip more affordable . This opulent sightseeing train only passes through the Canadian Rockies during the day, stopping to emphasize the region's natural wonders.

Passengers will savor hand-crafted, regional fare, top-shelf drinks, and an unending supply of snacks and sweets while listening to knowledgeable guides who will highlight Western Canada's stunning natural beauty and tell about the region's illustrious history.

10 Scenic Train Rides In Canada

The Rocky Mountaineer makes an overnight stop at Kamloops, a lakeside community, so travelers can rest comfortably and prepare for the remainder of their voyage from Vancouver to Banff.

Every level of service on the Rocky Mountaineer train from Vancouver to Banff has unique windows that provide scenic panoramas. Passengers can contemplate the wildlife, mountains, and vibrant flowers. You can even see some of Canada's renowned greenery if you travel during the fall.

Rocky Mountaineer trains from Vancouver to Banff are renowned for providing an upgraded experience, regardless of the level of service you select. Oversized windows, excellent food, and plush reclining chairs are all available for their enjoyment during the trip.

The Scenic, Bucket-List Train Itinerary From Vancouver To Banff

The two-day trip offers plenty of sights (and accommodation in kamloops).

A breathtaking two-day trip on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff includes Kamloops hotel accommodations.

Day 1: Vancouver To Kamloops

Passengers will travel from the coast to central British Columbia aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train, which departs from Vancouver. They will enjoy traveling through the Fraser Valley, the province of British Columbia's agricultural heartland.

The Fraser River, which is home to many salmon, winds through this ancient valley, which is surrounded by beautiful green mountainsides.

The scenic train passes distinctive geographical features like the roaring waves of Hell's Gate as it goes through marvelous river valleys cut into the lofty Coast and Cascade Mountains.

As the train ascends onto the parched interior plateau and makes its overnight stop in Kamloops, the atmosphere progressively changes. On board the train, breakfast, and lunch are complimentary.

• Hotels: Fairmont Waterfront, Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, Pan Pacific, Sutton Place Hotel, and Sheraton Wall Centre

10 Affordable Yet Scenic Train Rides In Canada

Day 2: kamloops to banff.

As it draws closer to the breathtakingly beautiful snow-capped Rocky Mountains, the train progressively departs the ranchlands of south-central British Columbia. Passengers will traverse three national parks of Canada on the route from Vancouver to Banff: Glacier, Yoho, and Banff.

They will travel across the Kicking Horse Canyon and Spiral Tunnels to Rogers Pass and beyond Craigellachie, the historic location where the Canadian Pacific's last spike was driven rail was installed.

On the way to gorgeous vacation spots in Banff , you pass by the Continental Divide. On board the train, meals are served for breakfast and lunch.

• Hotels: Banff Caribou Lodge, Rimrock Resort, Moose Hotel & Suites, Fairmont Banff Springs, and Elk & Avenue
• Cost: Price varies according to the month, with rates ranging from $1,720 to $2,782

Optional add-ons increase the price, but you can schedule sightseeing tours to explore Banff, the icefields in Banff, and more through the Rocky Mountaineer's add-ons page . Note that Banff's weather will impact the availability (and enjoyment) of add-ons.

Best Time To Travel On The Rocky Mountaineer

The best time to take a train trip from vancouver to banff might be the summer.

There is no best time to travel from Vancouver to Banff. It all depends on the passenger’s preferences. A snowy mountain background and significant financial savings may both be experienced in April.

If passengers want to take home a camera roll full of images that look like postcards and yet save money compared to the peak season pricing, which typically goes into effect in the latter week of May/early June, May is a terrific month to take a Rocky Mountaineer train trip from Vancouver to Banff .

7 Bucket List Amtrak Vacations In Canada

If passengers want to experience some of the warm summer weather, beautiful scenery, and animal-watching opportunities, but avoid the full summer rush of tourists traveling to the well-known mountain towns of Lake Louise, Jasper, and Banff, June is a perfect time to take the Rocky Mountaineer train.

Warm weather and beautiful landscapes make July and August a top choice for those who wish to go trekking and enjoy the outdoors. The Rocky Mountaineer's most popular month for travel is September since it is such a wonderful time of year.

The golden hues of the larch and poplar trees provide a lovely setting to the low light of the sun glistening off the blue lakes as the leaves begin to change color. Finally, the last of the fall colors may be seen in October while avoiding the heavy tourist traffic. As the Rocky Mountaineer rail travel season ends in October, rates decrease once again.

From the Rockies to Red Rocks by Rocky Mountaineer

With SilverLeaf service and inspiring views along the Colorado River

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Through mountain tunnels and canyons of towering cliff faces, past spires and turrets of stone, our train wound its way west. Time-worn rock formations in hues of rusty reds, burnt umber, and searing oranges unreeled on either side of us in an ever-shifting, often awe-inspiring backdrop as we followed alongside the Colorado River.

After more than three decades of transporting people through the Canadian Rockies Rocky Mountaineer , the Vancouver-based luxury train touring company, has expanded into the U.S.

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Since 2022, the Rockies to Red Rocks tour has been taking passengers from Denver to Moab, Utah, and back. From April to October, travellers can board at either destination for a two-day journey.

Like the trains used in the B.C./Alberta routes, some of the cars have been customized from old Via Rail cars for spacious, no-fuss travel. The seats are roomy and comfortable enough to doze in, although you won’t want to miss anything. Not that you’ll have the chance. In our car, barely a few minutes went by without one of two attendants grabbing the mic to share some local lore or point out an abandoned uranium mine or unique rock feature.

Due to the mountain passes and tunnels, the trains—from six-to-eight cars—are single-level. Depending on the number of cars, one or two lounge cars separate the passenger cars.

Packages come in two tiers, SilverLeaf and SilverLeaf Plus . Customers in both are treated to the same luxury travel arrangements, including  complimentary baggage transfers, and three on-board meals. For SilverLeaf Plus passengers alcoholic drinks are included and customers can access the lounge cars and viewing platforms between cars.

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Meals are prepared by a chef to guests’ specifications from a set menu with options. Two breakfasts and one lunch are served during the two-day journey. Lunch consisted of an arugula, cranberry, and shaved Manchego salad, with a choice of beef short rib or lemon and herb roasted chicken breast (vegetarian options also available), and chocolate torte for dessert.

The trip takes 13 hours, divided into two legs—eight hours between Denver and Glenwood Springs and five from Glenwood Springs to Moab.

Day 1: Glenwood Springs

Following a bus ride from our hotel to the train, we departed from Denver at 8 a.m. For the first hour or so there was little to see beyond industry as we left the city outskirts, but the mountain scenery began shortly after breakfast and continued unabated throughout most of the day. I spent the day between my seat, the viewing platforms, and the roomier lounge cars.

Arriving at Glenwood Springs at 5, we checked into our rooms at the Hotel Denver, just a few steps from the station and the downtown core. The town (pop. 10,000+) has a frontier vibe, reinforced by a six-metre neon pistol sign outside Doc Holliday’s Saloon and by landmarks like the venerable Hotel Colorado. The turn-of-the-twentieth-century artifact boasts of having seen Teddy Roosevelt, William Taft, and the “Unsinkable” Molly Brown walk through its doors.

More alluring for many is the hot springs pool which at more than 120 by 30 metres wide is the largest of its kind in the world.

Day 2: Moab

The sun was just coming up as we boarded the train at 7 a.m. for the second leg of the trip. Once aboard, we past through five hours of sandstone landscapes until Moab, where we arrived at noon.

Like Glenwood Springs, the small Utah town has retained a frontier vibe. Its main strip—also, alas, a six-lane highway not to be crossed except under extreme caution—is lined with shops selling Navajo and Ute art of varying degrees of authenticity, along with T-shirts and souvenirs ballyhooing local parks. A real find was Back of Beyond Books, the kind of curated local bookstore that is sadly on the wane these days.

For a taste of roadhouse culture, try Woody’s Tavern, where you can see local acts like Meander Cat. Woody’s became an immediate must-see on our itinerary when one of our guides mentioned that, a couple of months previous, she’d spotted Kevin Costner. We didn’t see any celebrities, but the tavern’s cool was confirmed by a sign behind the pitted, scarred bar that read, “No more carving.”

Moab’s real attractions are the nearby national parks and the outdoor adventures. During the spring and fall the town’s population of 5,000 swells with visitors coming to explore Arches National Park and Canyonlands. The former is home to more than 2,000 natural stone arches. You’ll become a believer once you’ve climbed to a spot underneath one or seen the sunset’s waning light bathing the formations in sherbet reds, oranges, and pinks.

Canyonlands, west of Moab, is like an inverted world. Where arches was all about looking up, Canyonlands is about looking down into vast craters and pits, like giant potholes gouged out by retreating icefields. On the Island in the Sky mesa, one of the most-visited viewpoints, the terrain falls 300 metres.

We went on a guided tour of Canyonlands Friday morning, the day after our arrival in Moab. Later that afternoon we joined the post-work-week revellers and other tourists on an ATV adventure in the hills overlooking the town. Four-by-four vehicles of every size and description ground and groaned their way over, across, and down red-hued rocks and boulders. Families with kids and dogs, groups of guys and girls, even a pair of newlyweds still in their wedding clothes—the whole town seemed to have turned out for a rollercoaster ride on the aptly named Hell’s Revenge Trail.

2 Day Rail, Moab-Denver from $2261. Rockies to the Red Rocks Classic (Moab, Glenwood Springs, Denver; six days/five nights) from $3,389-5,124 CAD per guest.

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24 of the world’s most incredible train journeys

Jan 2, 2024 • 11 min read

As you cross the continental US aboard the California Zephyr, you’ll see prairies, deserts, mountains and canyons galore © Jacob Boomsma / Shutterstock

From cutting through the countryside to connecting a country’s great cities, the world’s best railway journeys offer entirely new perspectives on a destination.

Train travel always delivers plenty of magic. Sometimes it’s in the cars, as you meet fellow travelers, or as you eat and sleep with the sound of wheels rolling on the steel rails beneath you. Sometimes it’s outside, in the landscape the train traverses – offering an adventure, an experience, an insight into the heart of a nation.

Our upcoming book,  Amazing Train Journeys ,  rounds up the world’s greatest railway rides. Pulled from its pages, these 24 train journeys are truly first-class.

1. The Reunification Express, Vietnam

Start:  Ho Chi Minh City End:  Hanoi Departs: Daily Distance:  1072 miles (1726km) Duration:  Two days

This is one of Southeast Asia ’s best-loved railways – and one of the  most epic overnight train journeys in the world . There is no more atmospheric way to haul into Vietnam ’s twin metropolises as this train rattles through historic cities and swooshes beside spectacular coastlines.

2. The California Zephyr, USA

Start:  Chicago End:   San Francisco Departs: Daily Distance:  2438 miles (3924km) Duration:   52hrs 40mins

For soaking up the scenic grandeur of the North American continent, nothing compares with Amtrak ’s California Zephyr , one of the US’ best train journeys . This classic three-day ride travels across prairies, deserts, the Rocky Mountains and the Sierra Nevada on its way from the Midwest to the West Coast.

3. The Lake Titicaca Train, Peru

Start:  Puno End:  Cuzco Departs: Three times a week Distance:  241 miles (388km) Duration:  10 hours

Traversing the Altiplano, from the shores of Lake Titicaca to the bustling heart of the ancient Incan empire, the railway from Puno to Cuzco cuts a ponderous but picturesque path through the snow-dusted peaks and voluptuous valleys of the Andes, across the epic Peruvian plains , passing hardy bowler-hatted llama farmers and traveling through remote towns and villages.

4. The Beijing-to-Lhasa Express, China

Start:   Beijing End:   Lhasa Departs: Daily Distance:  2330 miles (3750km) Duration:  40 hours

From the futuristic architecture and imperial wonders of Beijing, the Z21 train transports its passengers from the neon lights of urban China  across the Tibetan plateau , where it glides past grazing yaks, fluttering prayer flags, snow-capped mountains and boundless blue skies. At your destination, magenta-robed monks await. 

5. The TranzAlpine, New Zealand

Start:   Christchurch End:  Greymouth Departs: Daily Distance:   139 miles (223km) Duration:  4hrs 30mins

Under five hours, this journey is surely one the world’s finest and most scenic one-day train rides. Commence the TranzAlpine experience in Christchurch, before speeding along the Canterbury Plains and climbing quickly through the snow-capped mountains of the Southern Alps, then descend through a thrilling tunnel to emerge among the lakes, streams and rainforests of the South Island ’s West Coast. 

6. The Bergensbanen, Norway

Start:  Oslo End:   Bergen Departs: Four times a day Distance:  308 miles (496km) Duration:   6hrs 30mins

This astonishing train is one of Europe’s best railway rides  – and one of the least well known outside of Norway . It covers the spectrum of the Nordic country’s natural splendor: climbing canyons, crossing rivers, burrowing through mountainsides and traversing barren icescapes.

7. Tazara Railway, Tanzania and Zambia

Start:  Dar es Salaam End:  Kapiri Mposhi Departs: Twice a week Distance:  1160 miles (1860km) Duration:   46 hours

Few trains in the world offer the chance – and we should point out that it’s a chance rather than a guarantee – of spotting big game from your seat. The Tazara ( Tanzania and Zambia Railway Authority) does just that. The highlight, though, is the chance to spend two days watching everyday life out of the window, and enjoying the clamor and chaos when the train pulls to a halt – scheduled or unscheduled.

8. The Sunset Limited, USA 

Start:   New Orleans End: Los Angeles Departs: Three times per week  Distance: 1995 miles (3211km)  Duration:  Two days

The ultimate American railroad ride: east to west, coast to coast, clean through from the bars of New Orleans to the breakers of the Pacific Ocean. If you’ve always dreamed of crossing the States, but don’t much relish the prospect of two weeks spent cooped up in an automobile, then a ride on the Sunset Limited is the answer. Sit back and let America’s landscapes buzz by: from Louisiana’s bayous, past the high-rises of Houston, across the deserts of Texas and Arizona , over the Californian hills all the way to LA’s golden beaches. Saddle up, partner: it’s gonna be quite a ride.

9. The Caledonian Sleeper, UK

Start:  London (Euston) End:   Fort William Departs: Daily Distance:  509 miles (819km) Duration:  13hrs 30mins

Segueing from the sooty suburbs and crowded concrete-lined cul-de-sacs of central London to the crisp air and soaring vistas of the Scottish Highlands via one overnight train journey epitomizes the romance of rail travel. Enjoy the buffet-car banter, be lulled to sleep by the rhythm of the rails, then wake up to bedside views of towering granite peaks. 

10. Mombasa to Nairobi, Kenya

Start: Mombasa Ends:  Nairobi Departs: Daily Distance:  360 miles (579km) Duration:  5hrs 10mins

The Nairobi–Mombasa railway route is among Africa’s most legendary: it even helped foster the modern concept of safari. The rickety old railway has undergone a rebuild in recent years with smart new stations and a new track laid across the Kenyan savannah . What hasn’t changed is the spellbinding journey, with trains departing from Mombasa and passing in the shadow of Kilimanjaro to the cusp of the Great Rift Valley.

11. Tangier to Marrakesh, Morocco

Start:   Tangier End:  Marrakesh Departs: Daily Distance:  360 miles (580km) Duration:  5hrs 15mins

Nothing can fully prepare you for the magnificence Morocco ’s most evocative city – from the clamor and spectacle of the central square, Djemaa El Fna , to the primary colors of the Jardin Majorelle ; and from the peaceful madrassa of Medersa Ben Youssef to the mad profusion of alleyways. There’s no doubting that a railway journey down the spine of this North African nation is a profoundly uplifting experience.

12. The Rocky Mountaineer, Canada

Start:   Vancouver End:   Banff Departs: Twice a week Distance:  594 miles (957km) Duration:  37 hours

Clattering across the wild Rocky Mountains along a pioneering 19th-century railroad, this train journey is all at once a geological field trip, sightseeing adventure and wildlife safari. It promises cinematic views of Canada ’s quintessential mountain landscapes, plus a bevy of engineering marvels, from dizzying bridges to logic-defying tunnels. And with luck, you might even spy a bald eagle, moose or grizzly bear. 

13. Alexandria to Aswan, Egypt

Start:   Alexandria End:  Aswan Departs: Daily Distance:  670 miles (1100km) Duration:  16 hours

A ride from Alexandria to Aswan means you will travel the length of Egypt 's rail network – and also undertake an odyssey in the company of the great Nile River , with chances to disembark and explore the relics of empires along its banks . Do keep in mind that, for all their plus points, Egyptian trains are not always known for punctuality. 

14. The Serra Verde Express, Brazil

Start:   Curitiba End:  Morretes,  Paraná Departs: Daily Distance:  42 miles (68km) Duration:  3hrs 30mins

One of Brazil ’s most spectacular train journeys, the Serra Verde Express starts in the architecturally bold city of Curitiba and winds its way through dramatic mountain passes covered with tropical rainforest before it drops you in Morretes in the lush state of Paraná. The half-day trip takes in canyons, jagged mountain peaks and verdant lowlands, and the slow-going locomotive allows plenty of opportunities to photograph the cinematic backdrop while traversing some 30 bridges and chugging through 14 tunnels. Aside from the captivating scenery, the journey provides a fascinating glimpse into the past as it trundles through tiny stations dating back to the late 1800s.

15. The Darjeeling Toy Train, India

Start:   New Jalpaiguri End:   Darjeeling Departs: Daily Distance:  55 miles (88.5km) Duration:  7–8 hours

India ’s narrow-gauge steam railways are the stuff of legend, and the bottle-blue Darjeeling Toy Train is the nation’s lead engine. The ride from the Bengal plains to Darjeeling travels past emerald-green tea plantations and precariously balanced, tin-roofed townships, while clouds tumble down the looming massif of Mt Khangchendzonga. Steam engines are now only used for a small section of the route, yet this iconic mountain journey still serves up a sizable slice of history.

16. The Hokkaidō Shinkansen, Japan

Start:  Tokyo End:  Hakodate Departs: Daily Distance:  512 miles (824km) Duration:  4 hours

The Hokkaidō Shinkansen , one of Japan’s iconic bullet trains , takes you from Tokyo to Hakodate, the southern port of Hokkaidō . Along the way, it zooms past picturesque scenes of rural Japan , through mountains and under the sea. The route is only part of it, though: riding the shinkansen – with its food trolleys and staff who bow upon entering and exiting the train car – is a classic Japanese experience.

17. Colombo to Badulla, Sri Lanka

Start:  Colombo End:  Badulla Departs: Daily Distance:  181 miles (292km) Duration:  9–10 hours

One of many unforgettable things about Sri Lanka is the variety and intensity of the color green throughout the year . And for train aficionados, there is no better way to appreciate the country’s full, verdant spectrum than an all-day rail journey from Colombo’s urban gardens at sea level to tea plantations in the Hill Country , via brain-spinning sensory doses of jungle and forest, paddy field and palm tree, mountain and valley, national parks…and human habitation, too. Expect to move slowly – and enjoy one of the most scenic train trips in the world.

18. Bangkok to Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore

Start:   Bangkok End:  Singapore Departs: Weekly Distance:  1200 miles (1900km) Duration: Three days

A railway journey from Bangkok to Singapore spans three countries, three capital cities, and – without disembarking once – can be completed in under three days. But to go so fast would be to miss the point of this artery along the Malay Peninsula – a line suited to capricious roaming. You always have the option to hop off – to see tropical islands, to scale the cool heights of tea plantations, and to linger in a trio of metropolises that are each entirely different.

19. The Glacier Express, Switzerland

Start:  St Moritz End:  Zermatt Departs: Daily (in season) Distance:  180 miles (290km) Duration:  8 hours

Switzerland is a nation of rail fanatics . And if the Swiss could pick one definitive ride, the honor would surely go to the Glacier Express . This eight-hour journey from ritzy St Moritz to Matterhorn-topped Zermatt unzips the lovely Alpine terrain in the country’s south, corkscrewing up to wind-battered mountain passes, teetering across 291 bridges and rumbling through 91 tunnels. It intentionally moves at a snail’s pace so you take in those out-of-this-world views of meadows, forest, falls and mountains – all through panoramic windows. 

20. The Bernina Express, Switzerland & Italy

Start:   Chur End:  Tirano Departs: Daily Distance:  96 miles (156km) Duration:  4hrs 30mins

We can wax lyrical about the glacier-capped mountains, waterfall-draped ravines, jewel-colored lakes and endless spruce forests glimpsed through panoramic windows on Switzerland’s Bernina Express – but seeing is believing. Rolling from Chur in Graubünden to Tirano in northern Italy , this narrow-gauge train often tops polls of the world’s most beautiful rail journeys. The line has even made UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites – and with good reason.

21. Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, England, France, Switzerland and Italy

Start:  London End:  Venice Departs: One to six times per month Distance:  1300 miles (2090km) Duration:  Two days

The promise of traveling from London to Venice cocooned in luxury while sitting in twinkly dining cars with fine china and silver cutlery is surely one that endures in the hearts of all rail enthusiasts. While the Orient Express’ various other 20th-century routes are sadly long gone, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express offers a tantalizing sample of the original on a trip that is surely the best journey back in time ever. But this route gained a new rival in 2023 with the Orient Express La Dolce Vita service  – and, in 2025, a new service on the original route is scheduled to hit the rails .

22. Nova Gorica to Jesenice, Slovenia

Start:  Nova Gorica End:   Jesenice Departs:  Daily Distance:  55 miles (89km) Duration:  Two hours

Here is a near-perfect railway adventure that most people have never heard of. The Bohinj Railway connects two places whose significance can be lost to modern travelers. An unassuming regional train rattling out of a faded-grandeur halt on the Italy– Slovenia border doesn’t even hint at what’s to come. The journey is a spectacular tour of Slovenia’s upland highlights from Nova Gorica, climbing through mountain towns and villages along the Soča River , passing through superb Alpine scenery close to Lake Bohinj , and on past world-famous Lake Bled to Jesenice.

23. The Ghan, Australia

Start:   Adelaide End:  Darwin Departs: Twice a week Distance:   1851 miles (2979km) Duration:  54 hours

Cutting vertically across the Outback heart of Australia , straight through the desolate deserts of the Red Centre, the Ghan is one of the southern hemisphere’s most unforgettable train journeys. This cross-country train service has provided a vital link between Australia’s north and south coasts, traveling north across the country from well-to-do, orderly Adelaide to the tropical, croc-filled creeks of Darwin. Luxurious and legendary, it’s Australia’s elegant version of the Orient Express.

24. Cannes to Menton, France

Start:   Cannes End:  Menton Departs: Daily Distance:  34 miles (55km) Duration:  1hr 20mins

It’s the stuff that travel dreams are made of: a slow train skirting the French Mediterranean coast, through towns whose very names resonate with glamour – Cannes, Antibes , Monaco . On one side of the tracks lies that sparkling sea; on the other, dramatic cliffs interspersed with the gorgeous coastal towns of the French Riviera . You can make a long day of this short trip, hopping on and off to explore a street market, linger at an outdoor terrace, take a breath of history and get a taste of luxury.

This article was first published Aug 5, 2019 and updated Jan 2, 2024.

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The best luxury train holidays in Europe and further afield

Mountain railways with breath-taking views, overnighters to iconic cities and afternoon tea rides through the English countryside all feature among the world’s best luxury train rides

Avoiding airport delays, security queues and packed aircrafts is another big factor contributing to the rise of rail travel , which has resulted in a flurry of new European sleeper train routes.

What is the most luxurious train?

Among the most luxurious trains to experience in the world is the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express , which launched in 1982, making its first journey from London to Venice. The train is famed for its restored 1920s and 1930s Art Deco carriages, along with a tempting array of routes including Paris to Istanbul, Paris to Prague, Paris to Budapest , Amsterdam to Venice , and Brussels to Verona, plus winter trains to the French Alps.

How much is a luxury train holiday?

The cost of a luxury train holiday depends on the company, what your package includes, and how long the journey takes. As a guideline, the classic Venice Simplon-Orient-Express route from Paris to Venice costs from £3,530 per person but booking the journey as part of a longer holiday will help you get the most of your getaway. For instance, as a trip of a lifetime, you can experience the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express with Good Housekeeping as part of a tour of Venice, where prices start at £5,999. The package includes flights from London to Venice, followed by three nights in the spellbinding city, exploring its famous sights and enjoying dinner and a talk with TV broadcaster, journalist and train fanatic Michael Portillo .

You’ll then embark on the overnight train journey (with Michael in tow) to Paris, complete with aperitifs, a four-course dinner, and a sumptuous breakfast of fruit, pastries and fresh coffee.

What is the most luxurious train ride in the UK?

When it comes to the most lavish train rides in the UK, one of the finest is the Belmond British Pullman , a restored 1920s train with antique-style marquetry, vintage lighting and heritage upholstery, and a history of transporting royalty and film stars. Today, it takes train lovers to historic cities , likes of Bath, York and Canterbury; stately homes, such as Blenheim Palace and Sandringham; and seasonal events, including the Chelsea Flower Show and Royal Ascot; and ancient castles. With Good Housekeeping Holidays, you can enjoy an exclusive train ride through the English countryside on the British Pullman to Highclere Castle , the location of Downton Abbey , where you’ll join a talk with owner Lady Carnarvon. A published author and passionate proprietor, Lady Carnarvon will discuss the history of the stately home, reveal some of its secrets and share stories from the set of BAFTA-winning TV show. The day includes a welcome drink and three-course brunch on your journey to Highclere Castle , champagne during the talk, and a three-course dinner with wine, coffee and petit fours on the return journey. Other luxury UK trains include Belmond’s Royal Scotsman, which offers cinematic train tours of the Highlands, trips to heritage homes and gardens, and whisky tastings at world-class distilleries. The Northern Belle, a seven-carriage luxury train dating back to the 1930s, also offers an opulent experience. Departing from stations all over the UK, the train takes guests on both day and weekend journeys around the country, offering everything from stately home visits to champagne afternoon tea.

Where is the best place to go for a luxury train holiday?

If you’re looking for a rail trip abroad, the best places for luxury train breaks and holidays are Switzerland, India, Australia and Canada, with some of the most famous luxury trains around the world being the Glacier Express , the Rocky Mountaineer , The Ghan, The Blue Train, the Palace on Wheels, and the Andean Explorer. Looking for the best luxury train holiday for you? Be inspired by these ideas from Good Housekeeping Holidays' collection...

A Venice city break and Venice Simpon-Orient-Express overnighter to Paris

Join journalist, broadcaster and rail enthusiast Michael Portillo on his very first trip aboard the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express . In March 2025, you can spend two days in Venice before taking an overnight journey to Paris aboard the magnificent train.

After visiting bucket-list landmarks like St Mark’s Basilica and the Doge's Palace in Venice, you’ll get to relax onboard, with meals in the plush dining car, cocktails and conversation in Bar Car ‘3674’, and a night in a luxurious cabin.

An Alaska cruise with Canada's national parks and a Rocky Mountaineer ride

The Rocky Mountains and Alaska are two of North America’s most spectacular areas of wilderness but are surprisingly easy to combine in one trip with Good Housekeeping this summer. From the town of Banff in southern Canada, you can explore both Banff and Yoho national parks, and then ride the historic Rocky Mountaineer train through a landscape of mountain passes, serene lakes, river canyons and pristine forests.

Pulling into Vancouver, step aboard Princess Cruises’ Ruby Princess ship and sail through Alaska's Inside Passage, with its fjords, humpback whales, orca, bald eagles and bears, indigenous communities, and fascinating Gold Rush history.

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Lake Como, St Moritz and A Bernina Express ride

The Bernina Express is an enchanting, UNESCO-listed train that travels along the highest railway line in the Alps and gives you a unique view of Switzerland's shimmering lakes and mountain peaks from its spacious, panoramic carriages. On Good Housekeeping's Italy-Switzerland adventure , departing in September or December 2024, you’ll board the Bernina Express in Colico on the shores of Lake Como in Lombardy, northern Italy.

After the ride of a lifetime, you'll alight in Switzerland's most famous and glamorous Alpine resort, St Moritz. Upon returning to Italy for the rest of the trip, you'll also enjoy a cruise on Como , taking in its quaint ports, picture-postcard villages and dreamy mountain backdrop.

A first-class rail tour of Switzerland

Switzerland’s rail network is renowned for its comfort and efficiency, and is comprised of several iconic mountain railways that you can experience on this glorious Good Housekeeping trip . Enjoy a return trip on the Gornergrat Mountain Railway from Zermatt, which offers outstanding views of the Alps’ famous Matterhorn, as well as a return ride on the Bernina Express to Tirano (in Italy) and back, on which you’ll see the Swiss mountains, glaciers and lakes give way to Italian greenery.

From Zermatt, you’ll then take one of the most extraordinary train journeys, the Glacier Express. Known as ‘the slowest express train in the world’, it chugs along at 24mph for 181 miles through spectacular Alpine scenery, which you'll enjoy from a first-class carriage as you feast on a fabulous lunch. This trip also includes five-star hotel stays in upmarket Zermatt and St Moritz.

A journey to the home of Downton Abbey on the British Pullman

This September, you can travel from London’s Victoria Station to Highclere Castle, a Grade I-listed country house in Hampshire that was built in 1679 and is surrounded by acres of verdant parkland designed by Capability Brown.

On this fabulous day trip , you’ll travel with Good Housekeeping editor-at-large Gaby Huddart on the British Pullman, a luxurious Belmond train, aboard which you’ll enjoy both brunch and dinner. At Highclere, you can savour a glass of champagne as you listen to an exclusive talk by castle owner and resident, Lady Carnarvon.

A no-fly holiday to the Swiss Alps and ride on the Glacier Express

Flying is strictly off the agenda on this five-day Swiss sojourn , which departs in October 2024, March 2025 and October 2025. You’ll begin with a Eurostar trip from London to Paris, then travel onto Basel and finally to Switzerland's mountainous resort town of Interlaken. After a day visiting the town of Lucerne, its surrounding lake and other villages, you’ll head to Chur to join the Glacier Express .

While onboard, you’ll ascend into the snow-clad mountains, chug past ravines and charming villages, and journey through the Alps’ dramatic Oberalp Pass, all the while enjoying a three-course lunch. After returning to Interlaken that evening, you’ll spend your final day exploring the Swiss capital of Bern before heading back to London via train once again.

More travel ideas:

- The best cruises for 2024

- Venice's hidden gems

- The 2025 holidays worth booking in advance

- The best mother-daughter holiday ideas

- Amazing holidays with celebrity guests

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