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.

6 Canadian Train Trips to Book for a Summer Vacation

Embrace the beauty of a Canadian adventure with Canada's leading rail specialist and save up to $3,000 per couple on your 2024 Canadian Rail Vacations (Limited Time Offer).

I highly recommend this company, They will tailor a trip to meet individual needs.

My wife and I had 10 days on Vancouver Island and the Rockies organised by Jennifer. It was excellent. The accommodation was very good, some of it apartment type which allowed freedom to do a bit of our own cooking. The included activities were first rate and with two nights at each stop the whole trip was very relaxed. Everything went smoothly.

Mel

New Zealand

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

Our trip to Canada was incredible!

We had quite an adventure travelling by planes, train, auto and boat. We enjoyed every moment of our trip from Calgary to Vancouver and your company made it all so convenient with the trip vouchers. We came back with many happy memories and beautiful photos of your breathtaking country. This was a special trip for our family and it was everything we wanted it to be! We will certainly be using Canada by Design again if we get the chance to explore the East coast of Canada. Thank you for your assistance. Johanna, Carol & Judy

Johanna Oswald -

Little Rock, AR, United States

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

From start to finish Jennifer was very polite and easy-going as well as professional. She offered suggestions when needed and and was on top of all itinerary adjustments and refunds.

I had the pleasure of working with Jennifer Balicha on an itinerary for Seattle, Vancouver and Victoria, Canada. She kept me up-to-date on my clients progress while traveling and was very empathetic towards me and my client when handling itinerary snafu's along the way. Jennifer was great to work with and will definitely reach out to her again. Thanks Jennifer.....You're the BEST!!

Kim -

Pennsylvania, United States

We definitely want to come back and we know who to contact.

We have just come back from 10+ days tour from Vancouver to Jasper/Lake Louise/Banff/Kamloops back to Vancouver via train/bus. We had a great time. Thanks Canada by Design, especially to Karen for putting together and planning such a trouble free, smooth running package to make our visit even more unforgettable. Every place we have been to have been carved very deeply in our memories. We fell in love with the Rockies, its wild life, ice fields, beautiful towns and the friendly people.

Lutfu -

Istanbul

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

We had a marvelous trip. Everything fell into place.

Worked with Jennifer planning a road trip from the Calgary Stampede through Lake, Louise, Banff, Jasper, Sun Peaks and finishing in Vancouver. We worked together using some of my ideas and many of her ideas. She booked most of our hotels, sight seeing venues and car rental. We had a marvelous trip. Everything fell into place and each hotel she selected was great and a little different from the one before. Thank you Jennifer for all your help. Will never forget this trip.

Anne

New Jersey, United States

My clients and myself most definitely benefited from working with Canada By Design!

My clients requested a self drive travel itinerary in Halifax with many different stops and Canada By Design offered a great itinerary and great rate!

Amanda

Central Travel

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