Rocky Mountaineer is like a wild stallion of the railroads. It gallops through the rugged mountains and valleys of Western Canada, taking you on a journey through some of the most breathtaking scenery you will ever lay eyes on by rail.
But let's not get ahead of ourselves. Before you board Rocky Mountaineer, you should know that this is not your typical commuter train. Rocky Mountaineer is not the kind of train you take to work - unless, of course, your job is "professional sightseer." Rocky Mountaineer is all about the journey, not the destination. It is like the ultimate road trip but with the added convenience of not having to drive or navigate.
Where did it all start?
Rocky Mountaineer has been traveling through the Canadian Rockies since 1990, showcasing some of the world's most stunning natural landscapes. And with more than 1.5 million guests and counting, it is safe to say that the train has won over the hearts (and Instagram feeds) of travelers from all over the globe.
The story behind this high-end train is as fascinating as the scenery itself. Picture this: a visionary British Columbia-based entrepreneur named Peter Armstrong sees the potential of the jaw-dropping landscape of the Canadian Rockies. With this, he decides to create a train route to take tourists on a journey that lets them marvel at the beauty of the mountains and the surrounding wilderness. And so, the Rocky Mountaineer train was born, with its very first route, the First Passage to the West, taking passengers from Vancouver to Banff. See its majesty for yourself while on our Canadian Rockies Featuring Banff & Lake Louise rail vacation.
Rocky Mountaineer has expanded its routes over the years to offer passengers the chance to see other spectacular locations, such as Jasper, Lake Louise and Whistler.
What sets Rocky Mountaineer apart from other rail journeys?
In short, your comfort is the top priority. The accommodations onboard Rocky Mountaineer are nothing short of luxurious. The train has two classes, SilverLeaf service and GoldLeaf service.
SilverLeaf is the more budget-friendly option, but do not let that fool you; the service is still top-notch, with comfortable seating, delicious meals and remarkable views from the large windows.
GoldLeaf, on the other hand, is the ultimate luxury experience. Enjoy the royal treatment with gourmet meals, private outdoor balconies and panoramic dome cars that give you a 360-degree view of the scenery.
In both classes, the seats are plush and designed to provide optimal comfort, even on longer journeys. The train also has private washrooms, a wheelchair-accessible car, and a dome car with a special seating area where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies in a cozy setting.
The staff onboard are friendly and want to make your journey as relaxing as possible. They take care of your every need while ensuring your trip is an enjoyable experience. Rocky Mountaineer is one of the most comfortable ways to explore the Canadian wilderness, whether traveling in SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf class.
What are the best sights from Rocky Mountaineer?
As previously mentioned - and emphasized - Rocky Mountaineer takes passengers on a journey past some of the most spellbinding sights and landscapes in the world. Highlights include:
Stoney Creek is a natural wonder that can only be seen from Rocky Mountaineer. As you ride through the canyon, you're treated to views of the rushing creek surrounded by towering trees and rugged cliffs.
Morant's Curve is famous for its panoramic views of the Rockies. This location is so picturesque that it has become a popular spot for photographers who flock to capture the train as it winds around the curve near Lake Louise. Rocky Mountaineer's glass-domed coaches give you a front-row seat to this amazing spectacle.
Bow Lake, located in Banff National Park, is a glacier-fed lake that is a breathtaking shade of turquoise and surrounded by towering peaks. As the train meanders past, you'll have plenty of time to absorb the views and snap some photos.
Mount Robson is the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. You have an unmatched perspective on its beauty while following the Journey to the Sky route to Jasper, as featured on the Canadian Rockies & Rocky Mountaineer tour.
How is the wildlife viewing?
While Exploring Western Canada with Rocky Mountaineer, you have the chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, too. On a journey through the Canadian Rockies, you might catch a glimpse of elk and moose grazing in the fields or a black bear foraging for berries in the forest. If you're lucky, you might even spot a pack of wolves or a herd of bighorn sheep.
Passing through the valleys, you might see a beaver dam or a family of river otters playing in the streams. You might even see a stoic bald eagle soaring overhead. Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but it's always an exciting possibility; just keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready.
Here's a bit more detail about some of the wildlife you could see.
The Canadian Moose
These majestic creatures are the largest members of the deer family and are known for their impressive antlers, long snouts and shaggy brown coats.
These massive creatures are fast movers, good swimmers and fierce protectors of their young. You may see them grazing on water plants in the lakes and streams or chomping on the branches of willow, birch and aspen trees in the forests.
Moose sightings are most common in the early morning or late evening. If you do spot one of these iconic animals, take a moment to appreciate their beauty and power. They're a symbol of the Canadian wilderness and a highlight of any journey on the Rocky Mountaineer train.
Bears
The Canadian Rockies are home to a range of bear species, including black bears, grizzly bears and the rare Kermode (or "spirit") bear. You may see them fishing in a local stream or foraging along the edge of a forest while traveling through the Rockies.
Remember, bears are wild animals and should be treated with respect and caution. The Rocky Mountaineer Train takes every precaution to ensure the safety of its passengers, including strict rules about approaching wildlife. If you do have the opportunity to see a bear from the train, it is an unforgettable experience.
Bald Eagles
The national bird of America can often be seen soaring above the jagged peaks of the mountains, and these impressive birds are a sight to behold.
Bald eagles are sea eagles and are usually found near large bodies of water, as they mainly feed on fish. Despite their name, they are not bald; rather, their name derives from an old word meaning "white-headed," referring to the distinctive white feathers on their heads. These magnificent birds have wingspans up to 7.5 feet and are a symbol of strength and freedom.
When and how you can ride Rocky Mountaineer
The Rocky Mountaineer trains run during the peak tourist season from April to October. To provide the best views of the beautiful scenery, the train travels only during the day, so you have plenty of time and light to soak up changing vistas of the ever-impressive Canadian Rockies.
One of the best things about Rocky Mountaineer is that the train provides a great way to see many places in a short amount of time. You can choose from a variety of routes, depending on your budget, how much time you have, and what you want to see.
Our Rocky Mountaineer train tours combine Canada's highlights with travel on this incredible train, giving you an adventure like none other. It is a luxurious, exciting and unforgettable experience that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. Just don't forget your camera, because trust us, you will certainly want to capture every single moment of this wild ride through the mountains.
