A Canada lakes and mountains rail vacation is nearly synonymous with an itinerary featuring the Canadian Rockies. Expansive lakes, tumbling waterfalls, and towering mountain peaks are the tableau of some of the country's most scenic rail routes and picturesque destinations. Once in the heart of breathtaking scenery, lake and mountain vistas are only amplified.
Immerse yourself in the Canadian Rockies with a visit to Moraine Lake tucked in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, or travel aboard the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain for stunning views of the Bow Valley and Banff townsite. The turquoise waters of Lake Louise, surrounded by mountain peaks and the Victoria Glacier looming behind it, are a sight to behold. The deep blue waters of Maligne Lake with Spirit Island at its center highlight many sightseeing tours in Jasper.
While Western Canada is home to some of the most famous lakes and mountains in Canada, the East has its share of notable peaks and valleys, such as Quebec's Laurentian Mountains. Situated north of Montreal, this destination is home to freshwater lakes and scenic mountain villages. Whether your vacation takes you to the Canadian Rockies, Eastern Canada, or on a coast to coast adventure, there is no shortage of lakes and mountains rail vacations in Canada.
(245 reviews)
One of our most popular Canadian Rockies trips, this journey puts Western Canada on display. Experience the urban ambiance of Vancouver before boarding Rocky Mountaineer for a daylight-only trip alongside rivers, canyons and forests to Lake Louise. From here, the route continues to the resort town of Banff, renowned for its enchanting scenery and...
(209 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...
(30 reviews)
Delve into the remarkable landscapes of Canada, traveling through areas of outstanding beauty on world-famous trains. Beginning with a guided tour of Vancouver on the Pacific coast, the journey continues with two daytime trips on the amazing Rocky Mountaineer to the astonishing Canadian Rockies. Based in gorgeous Banff and Jasper, admire...
(7 reviews)Discover beautiful Western Canada on this journey into the Canadian Rockies. Spend two days on the coast, discovering the dynamic city of Vancouver with a range of optional excursions before traveling into the breathtaking Rocky Mountains aboard Rocky Mountaineer. With detailed service, high-end cuisine and spectacular panoramic vistas, the train...
(70 reviews)This 8-day adventure showcases the best of Western Canada, combining luxury rail travel with stunning mountain scenery. Start in Vancouver, then board the Rocky Mountaineer for a scenic ride through towering peaks and deep canyons to Jasper. Spend two nights in Jasper, exploring its breathtaking national park before traveling the Icefields...
Landmark
Ever-changing landscapes and remarkable cities beckon this small-group tour across Canada. Enjoy overnight rail travel on VIA Rail's Ocean and VIA Rail's Canadian, as well as the luxury of GoldLeaf Service on Rocky Mountaineer, admiring the scenery from glass-dome train cars and an exclusive outdoor viewing area. Stay in five iconic Fairmont...
(18 reviews)Let the rails guide your adventure on this 17-day coast-to-coast Canadian tour. The journey begins in Vancouver, where you board the Rocky Mountaineer for a scenic ride into the Rockies. Soak in all the beauty of Banff and Jasper National Parks and Lake Louise before boarding VIA Rail's Canadian for a three-day rail journey to Toronto. ...
(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,...
Embark on a spectacular overland journey that showcases the beautiful and varied landscapes the world's second-largest country is famed for. Landing in Vancouver, explore the west coast's jaw-dropping Rocky Mountains, rushing rivers, glacial lakes and pristine forests before boarding VIA Rail's Canadian for a three-night journey across the plains...
The majesty of the Canadian Rockies beckons on this round-trip tour through Western Canada. Begin in the coastal city of Vancouver before you board the Canadian for its overnight journey into the cinematic landscapes of Jasper National Park. From here, follow the Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise and Banff, pausing to explore the icy expanses...
A route of natural wonders and untamed landscapes comes to life on this Canadian Rockies vacation featuring Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise. Following a round-trip route from Calgary, delve into the immense beauty of the Rockies in Banff National Park before boarding Rocky Mountaineer for a ride on its limited-time route, Passages to Peaks, to...
(22 reviews)Western Canada is filled with remarkable destinations, and this rail journey is your ticket to some of the best. Explore Vancouver's fast pace and vibrant surroundings before heading into nature on VIA Rail's Canadian. The overnight journey unveils landscapes marked by mountains, lakes, and deep forests and takes you right to the doorstep of the...
Jul 24, 2025 · By Kira Whitaker
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more
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.
Read more