Trains Across the Rockies | Canadian Rockies Train Routes & Trips

Compare Rocky Mountaineer & VIA Rail Journeys Through the Mountains

Several of Canada’s most iconic rail routes cross the Canadian Rockies, each offering a different way to experience the mountains. Rocky Mountaineer focuses on daylight viewing between Vancouver and either Banff or Jasper, while VIA Rail’s Canadian continues further across the country with overnight segments between major stops.

Use this page to understand the key differences between these Canadian Rockies train routes, then explore sample trips that combine them with time in mountain towns, national parks and other regions of Canada.

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Could not have asked for a better…

Could not have asked for a better vacation with my family My 24 year old and 13 year old enjoyed every aspect of the vacation The train ride was spectacular Very well organized It was well planned for our family Loved our stay in the Fairmont at every location. Highly recommend the tour Good value for money spent Thank you

Lakshmi

Texas

I don't know how I will ever thank you all at Canada by Design for everything you did for us and making a trip of a life time surpass our wildest expectations!

We LOVED Canada and look forward to coming back and doing the same route in the spring or autumn. In fact we would even consider doing it again in winter as it was so stunningly beautiful. After booking the trip and advising the date we wanted, I was very impressed with Karen's professionalism and prompt service, nothing was too much trouble. When we requested things from her, all the information given to us was accurate and up to date.

Ann -

Australia

It was a dream come true, I am so happy!

It was a dream come true. I am so happy! Thank you so much for putting this together for us! The Northern Tales guides were awesome! Helpful and so passionate about what they do, we loved them all! It was fantastic! The hotel in Vancouver was incredible ! They were so friendly and helpful to us weary travellers! We did the Capilano Suspension Bridge and then enjoyed the view and some wine & tapas from a very nice waterfront hotel!

Joanne

Massachusetts, United States

One of our best vacations. Perfectly planned and all went off without a hitch.

Canada by Design planned our trip to the Canadian Rockies including travel on the Rocky Mountaineer and visit to Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff, and Calgary. Every contact with Canada by Design was a positive one. So helpful so positive. Recommend them highly!

Joel Yellin -

Rochester, United States

My first kudos goes to Canada By Design for giving us the flexibility.

Well, I am still amazed that we were able to get accommodations, Fairmont, train, etc. at last moment... and the way we were able to customize our trip drive/train and explore on our own was awesome!! So, my first kudos goes to Canada By Design for giving us the flexibility. Of course, I adored working with you!!! As far as the trip highlights....I think Jasper was our favorite town, our favorite hike was through the snow at Lake Louise to the Glacier Tea house, our favorite hotel was the Fairmont, and we really enjoyed the train ride/sleeper cabin. The lodging was all great, but Tekarra Lodge's location on the river bank was sooooooo cool! Plus, we enjoyed not being downtown Jasper, and food there was really yummy! Thanks again Jennifer!

Melinda -

Nevada, United States

We had the most fabulous trip to our Winter Wonderland in the Canadian Rockies.

Thank you so much for organizing all our travels and hotels. Highlights: the vintage train from Vancouver to Jasper! Via Rail Canadian needs better pictures to tout the awesome rail with it's adorable public rooms, dinning car, glass roof cars and cozy cabins. I left the shade up all night and watched the world go by.

Mary -

California, United States

Most Wonderful Trans-Canada Rail Trip

We found our experience with Canada by Design & Jennifer B in particular to be most wonderful for our Trans-Canada Rail Trip. All arrangements made by her were perfect, not a hitch anywhere. When I was in touch with her with concerns, she was very prompt in responding & resolving them. We really felt her customer service was so welcoming. We have talked to a few people since our return and have recommended your company to them.

Marjorie Stock

California, United States

Destinations, itinerary and accommodation was all well thought out and we had a very memorable time. I'd happily use Canada by Design again.

We just returned from a trip around Newfoundland. Destinations, itinerary and accommodation was all well thought out and we had a very memorable time. Thank you Jules! I'd happily use Canada by Design again.

Christopher -

Zurich, Switzerland

Canada by Design has created my clients remarkable experiences with their families.

Every tour and detail was perfect for my families that I have traveling to Canada. There isn't anyone I would rather use for travel to Canada.

Emily -

Tennessee, United States

I would give it ten stars if it was possible.

I toured on the Vancouver, Whistler and Vancouver Island tour. It was brilliant. The bus drivers were very helpful and knowledgeable. The sea to sky experience was wonderful and it was great going to the top of the mountains and the cultural museum was very interesting. The whales very kindly decided to perform when I was whale watching. Apparently it was only the third time this year the marine biologist had seen them so active and of course the Butchart Gardens were magnificent. The three hotels in which I stayed were all first class. I could not fault anything, even the weather was hot and sunny.

Janet

New Eltham, United Kingdom