Touring the Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer across the Canadian Rockies is one of the most famous train rides in the world and a trip that never disappoints.
The Rocky Mountaineer is a surefire way to have an unforgettable experience, whether your priority is seeing native species, taking in breathtaking views, or simply relaxing in the way that only a train ride can. Take in the ever-changing scenery of the world-famous Rocky Mountains as you dine on the train and have breakfast and lunch.
All tours depart and return during daylight hours, and onboard hosts are well-versed in the area’s history and animals so that passengers don’t miss a thing.
But like with any grand journey, there are options to consider, and the Rocky Mountaineer is no exception.

Best time of year to take the Rocky Mountaineer

The Rockies are stunning all year round, but in the middle of May, as we drove from Banff to Vancouver, we saw ice on the lakes. The terrain brightened as we approached Vancouver, and when we arrived, parks and gardens were exploding with spring blossoms.
You can’t always expect to meet wildlife, but on our two-day hike, we came across a brown bear calmly browsing at the forest’s edge.
Bears are most visible in June, although elk and grizzly bears are more likely to be spotted in September and October, and bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and eagles can be spotted year-round.

Which Rocky Mountaineer trip is the best?

Independent tourists can choose from three different Rocky Mountaineer itineraries across Canada, each with their own set of available extras. Hotels in the city, tours, and vehicle rentals are all possible add-ons.
A chance to see stunning natural sights including the Columbia Icefields at Jasper National Park, Lake Louise, and the city of Vancouver. All Rocky Mountaineer routes run in both directions, so passengers can choose whichever works best for them. Circle Tours, which begin and end in Vancouver, incorporate two separate rail lines.

First Passage to the West

The route from Banff to Vancouver follows the footsteps of the early explorers who travelled this route in the 19th century.One of the steepest and most spectacular railway lines in North America, it winds through mountainous gorges, over the powerful Fraser River, and through the world-famous Spiral Tunnels.

Banff is the gateway to Banff National Park, Canada’s oldest national park, and the place where our journey began. When we arrived in Kamloops at the end of our first full day on the train, we went for a lengthy stroll along the river.

The following day, we wound our way farther through the Rockies, taking in more breathtaking vistas of the mountains and lakes there.

Journey Through the Clouds

Embark on a journey above the clouds and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you. The Journey Through the Clouds is a voyage that takes you from Vancouver to Jasper, passing through Kamloops along the way. Take in the stunning desert-like landscape as you make your way to Kamloops, before being greeted by breathtaking lake views on the road to Jasper. Marvel at the sight of Pyramid Falls and be awestruck by the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson. This exclusive view of some of Canada’s most iconic landscapes is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you won’t want to miss. Join us on this unforgettable journey and cross this incredible adventure off your bucket list.

Rainforest to Gold Rush

On the journey from Vancouver to the mountain resort of Whistler, the Rainforest to Gold Rush tour takes travellers via Horseshoe Bay and the picturesque fjords of Howe Sound. The tour lasts for three days. When you get there, you can take a ride on the Peak-2-Peak gondola, which is the tallest lift of its kind in the world, to get a panoramic view of the area.

After that, you’ll continue on through some hidden lakes and canyons on the way to Quesnel, where you’ll spend the second night before continuing east via Mount Robson and arriving in Jasper.

In addition, Rocky Mountaineer provides a fourth beautiful excursion called “Rockies To The Red Rocks,” which is a trip that takes place over the course of two days and travels from Moab in Utah to Denver in Colorado.

What’s the difference between SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf service on the Rocky Mountaineer?

On the Rocky Mountaineer, you can choose between the SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf service levels.
Each service provides its customers with an expert host, comfortable seating (whether allocated or not), a variety of tasty meals, and free beverages.

SilverLeaf service

There is no need to get up from your seat on a SilverLeaf flight because all of the coaches are on the same level and the regionally inspired meals are brought right to you. The enormous outside viewing platform is off-limits, but we made frequent trips to the outdoor viewing area at the end of our coach equipped with a camera and took some fantastic shots.

GoldLeaf service

Double-decker carriages with private dining compartments below and seating compartments above are standard on the GoldLeaf service. The top coach has expansive glass dome windows. Eagles may even be spotted swooping overhead!
The dining area with the upscale à la carte menu is located on the basement level. GoldLeaf’s higher level of comfort and convenience may sway your choice if you’re planning a special event.

Is the Rocky Mountaineer wheelchair accessible?

Wheelchair-using passengers can board and disembark the train with the help of a ramp or a hydraulic lift, and they can get about the cars as long as their chairs are no more than 23 inches broad.
Rocky Mountaineer also provides wheelchairs with a width of 15 inches, allowing passengers to easily navigate the aisles. Visit Rocky Mountaineer’s site for complete information.

What do I need to pack for my trip on the Rocky Mountaineer?

Put on something you can sit in for two days straight. Food is plentiful and physical activity is light, so loose fitting clothing is fine. Wear layers in case you get too hot sitting by the window or too cold in the air conditioning.
You may also want to bring a sweater or light jacket in case it gets chilly on the outside observation deck. Binoculars are helpful, especially for twitchers, and a camera or phone with a good lens is a need.

How do I book the Rocky Mountaineer?

Embarking on a journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer is an experience like no other, so it’s no surprise that many travelers opt for a special occasion trip. If you’re wondering how to book this iconic train, look no further than the Rocky Mountaineer website. There, you’ll find everything you need to know about upcoming departures, fares, and routes. However, if you’re planning a more comprehensive adventure, take a peek at the packages available. With options that include cruises to Alaska or stays in urban Vancouver, you can customize your trip to create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t let the opportunity to journey through some of Canada’s most stunning landscapes pass you by – book your Rocky Mountaineer expedition today!