The story of Banff National Park begins with its bubbling hot springs and the railroad. In 1883, Canadian Pacific Railway laborers building Canada's transcontinental railroad discovered natural hot springs on the side of Sulphur Mountain. This discovery eventually led to the establishment of Banff as Canada's first national park, and, shortly after, that same railroad helped fuel Banff's tourism. Travelers came from across the country for alpine adventures, and today, vacationers can experience that same excitement on a train trip to Banff National Park.
Travel into the Canadian Rockies from Vancouver on the all-daylight Rocky Mountaineer or on an overnight journey aboard VIA Rail's Canadian. Once in this UNESCO-listed region, delight in the many wonders of Banff National Park. Ride the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain, soaking up panoramic views of Bow Valley and Banff town site below, or venture into the wilderness to Lake Minnewanka or Lake Louise, with Victoria Glacier behind it. Banff vacation packages showcase the best
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(130 reviews)
All aboard the storied rails of the Rocky Mountaineer for a journey into Canada's picturesque Rocky Mountains. Our journey begins in Vancouver, a coastal metropolis that boasts a thriving art scene, stunning views of both the mountains and the ocean, and sightseeing opportunities that pique the interest of nearly every traveler. We have a full day...
(7 reviews)
A spectacular discovery of natural wonders awaits on this exploration by land and sea. From the mountain town of Banff in the Canadian Rockies, we marvel at the spellbinding beauty of Lake Louise before boarding the iconic Rocky Mountaineer. This fantastic rail journey transports us to Vancouver, where we set sail on an unforgettable cruise. ...
(229 reviews)
One of our most popular trips through the Canadian Rockies, this 7-day journey through Canada puts gorgeous scenery at every turn. The tour begins with two days of sightseeing in Vancouver, before boarding the Rocky Mountaineer for two days of daylight-only travel alongside rivers, canyons, and forests to the beautiful destination of Lake Louise.
An unforgettable adventure aboard two of Canada's most iconic trains. Begin with the panoramic luxury of the GoldLeaf service on the Rocky Mountaineer, followed by a Prestige Class experience aboard VIA Rail's Canadian. Along the way, witness the natural wonders of the Canadian Rockies and the vast, ever-changing landscapes of the Canadian plains...
(6 reviews)Two national parks, endless mountain scenes, and remote landscapes clad in fluffy white snow set the stage for an adventure like no other in Canada this winter. This independent rail vacation offers ten days of exploration split between Alberta, British Columbia, and the Yukon Territory. Each location provides a new look at why this time of year...
(59 reviews)Ten days of mountains, glaciers, pristine lakes, national parks and unforgettable experiences beckon on this rail vacation. After an overnight journey aboard Amtrak's Empire Builder to Montana, spend a day amidst the awe-inspiring scenes of Glacier National Park before crossing the border into Canada. Admire the insurmountable beauty of Kootenay...
(14 reviews)Snow-capped peaks surrounded by vibrantly hued lakes and emerald-green forests set the scene for this independent journey through Canada's Rocky Mountains. A brilliant combination of rail travel and time to drive through the amazing landscape at your own pace allows for an impressive and thorough introduction to interior Canada. Begin in Calgary,...
(204 reviews)Over 69,500 square miles of jagged peaks, emerald forests, and alpine lakes spread over two provinces await in the Canadian Rockies. Venture into the jaw-dropping scenery of Jasper National Park aboard VIA Rail's premier overnight train, the Canadian. On arrival, well-planned sightseeing in iconic Rocky Mountain locales, including Jasper and Banff...
(28 reviews)Sometimes you just need to get away, even if only for a few days. This 5-day retreat into the Canadian Rockies is the perfect getaway, combining both sightseeing and relaxation, and of course spectacular scenery. Start your trip in Vancouver, where you'll have time to explore on your own. The next day, your train journey starts with a trip to...
Uncover Canada's most amazing landscapes on this journey from the Pacific Coast to the Great Lakes. Our exploration begins with a guided tour of Vancouver before touring the stunning Rocky Mountains from the mountain town of Jasper. Here, we admire awe-inspiring vistas, including the Maligne River Valley. An epic three-night journey from...
(26 reviews)Delve into the remarkable landscapes of Canada on world-famous trains. Our exploration begins with a guided tour of beautiful Vancouver on the Pacific coast before we enjoy two daytime trips on the amazing Rocky Mountaineer to the astonishing Canadian Rockies. Based in Banff and Jasper, we admire the awe-inspiring Lake Louise and the Athabasca...
A magnificent small-group tour across the remarkable landscapes of Canada. This vacation features stays in the country's grandest hotels and is connected by spectacular journeys with private cabins on VIA Rail's Ocean and Canadian, and the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer. From Quebec City's world-famous Le Château Frontenac and on to Toronto, Jasper...
Jul 24, 2025 · By Vacations By Rail
Whether in America’s national parks, the Canadian Rockies or traveling from coast to coast, discover the top destinations to visit in North America in 2026.
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Jun 06, 2025 · By Co-Founder Todd Powell
Let your imagination soar aboard VIA Rail’s Canadian, where overnight train travel becomes a cinematic journey of romance and wonder.
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Jun 10, 2025 · By Co-Founder Todd Powell
If there’s a place in the Canadian Rockies I wish I had spent more time, it’s Jasper — Rich in railway history and nestled right inside Jasper National Park.
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May 22, 2025 · By Co-Founder Todd Powell
Rocky Mountaineer operates as a daylight-only sightseeing train, allowing travelers to experience every mountain, canyon, and river crossing in their awe-inspiring glory.
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