As Co-Founder of Vacations By Rail, I'm often asked by first-time travelers, "What's your favorite train ride?" It's an impossible question. I love them all. I've logged more than 250,000 miles by train - From the world's most luxurious rail journeys to rickety carriages that left me wondering if they were safe to ride. As I write this, I'm sitting in the Sightseer Lounge onboard Amtrak's Southwest Chief on a two-night, 2200-mile, 8 state adventure from Chicago to Los Angeles, traveling for no reason other than the joy of the journey itself.
But if you live in North America and have never experienced a long-distance overnight train ride, I have no hesitation in recommending your first: VIA Rail's legendary Canadian between Vancouver, British Columbia and Jasper, Alberta. This iconic overnight journey offers everything I love about rail travel-scenery, serenity, and a sense of timeless adventure-bookended by a vibrant coastal city and a mountain town nestled in one of the world's most beautiful national parks.
Here are five reasons this one-night trip is the ideal first-time rail experience:
1. Just One Night on the Train
Long-distance train travel asks us to slow down and tune into the rhythm of the rails. You disconnect, look out the window, and let the moving landscape become your entertainment. While some first-time riders go all-in on the full 4-night Vancouver-Toronto route, I recommend dipping your toe in with the one-night journey to Jasper.
I fell in love with train travel on a single overnight - Falling asleep to city lights and waking up to snow-draped mountains touching the sky. It was just enough to feel transformed, but short enough to leave me wanting more.
If you are looking for ways to experience The Canadian from Vancouver to Jasper, our Canadian Rockies by Rail tour is a customer favorite.
2. Sleeper Cabins Built for Comfort
The Canadian's Sleeper Plus cabins for two are ideal for newcomers. By day, you'll enjoy two cushioned seats, a large picture window, and your own sink and toilet. At night, the space transforms into cozy upper and lower berths. The gentle rocking of the train and the distant call of the horn provide a lullaby like no other.
There are also semi-private berths - perfectly fine for a short trip - but there's something timeless and romantic about having a private cabin all to yourself.
Learn more about classes of service provided on The Canadian.
3. The Dining Car Delight
Meals on The Canadian are a standout feature. Prepared onboard using regional ingredients, they're served in a classic dining car setting with white linens and polished service.
Breakfast is my favorite: I grab an early seat, sip my coffee, and watch the mountains roll by through picture windows, often sharing conversation with fellow travelers. It's one of the most civilized- and scenic - ways to start the day.
4. Iconic Domes and the Park Car
No ride on The Canadian is complete without time in the Prestige Park Car - A sleek stainless-steel icon from the golden age of rail. The dome section offers panoramic views, while the mural and bullet lounges below invite socializing or simply quiet contemplation as the scenery flows past.
Rise early, grab a coffee, and claim a seat in either the Skyline Dome or Prestige Park Car Dome as the sun peeks over the Rockies. Few moments compare to watching the world wake up from a train window, or even better a Dome!
5. Legendary Scenery
The route between Vancouver and Jasper is simply jaw-dropping. Expect a parade of scenic highlights: Pyramid Falls, Mount Robson (the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies), Yellowhead Pass, and the Continental Divide. If you're lucky, you'll spot elk, bear, or mountain goats along the way.
Arrival in Jasper places you smack in Jasper National Park, a UNESCO Heritage Site and the second largest Dark Sky Preserve in the World, with easy access to the Icefields Parkway, Lake Louise, Banff, and Banff National Park - Some of Canada's most treasured wonders.
Whether you're seeking an introduction to overnight train travel or simply a short, unforgettable getaway, the overnight journey on The Canadian from Vancouver to Jasper is a perfect place to start. It's a taste of everything that makes long-distance rail travel magical-and just enough to leave you ready for the next great adventure.
It's hard to narrow down the choices of scenic views when on The Canadian because of its breathtaking route. Admire wintry scenes with our Canadian Snow Train tour, or perhaps enjoy wildlife-spotting on a summertime trip with Canadian Rail Adventure: Rocky Mountaineer & The Canadian.
