First passage to the West
The journey on Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West route is indeed a spectacular and iconic rail experience, offering passengers a glimpse of Canada’s stunning landscapes and historical landmarks. Here’s a closer look at this memorable train route:
Route Highlights:
- Spiral Tunnels: Passengers on this route have the unique opportunity to travel through the legendary Spiral Tunnels. These engineering marvels are an essential part of Canadian railroad history, allowing trains to traverse the challenging terrain of the Rocky Mountains.
- Continental Divide: The train journey takes you across the Continental Divide, a geographical feature that separates waters flowing into the Pacific Ocean from those flowing into the Atlantic Ocean. It’s a significant moment during the trip.
-
- Mountain Passes and Canyons: As the train winds its way through the Canadian Rockies, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of mountain passes and dramatic canyons. The rugged beauty of this region is truly awe-inspiring.
- Historical Significance: The route includes a stop at Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven in 1885. This event marked the completion of the first transcontinental railway in Canada and is a significant part of the country’s history.Travel Itinerary:
- The journey begins in Vancouver, where passengers board the train. As you depart, you’ll leave behind the Pacific Ocean and the city’s skyline.
- The first day includes scenic views as the train travels to Kamloops, where passengers spend the night.
- On the second day, the train departs from Kamloops, following the Thompson River and passing through the Shuswap region.
- Highlights of the journey include crossing the Stoney Creek Bridge and passing Canada’s Continental Divide.
- The train eventually reaches Banff, covering a distance of just over 300 miles during the day’s journey.
Luxury Service Options:
Rocky Mountaineer offers two levels of service for travelers: SilverLeaf Service and GoldLeaf Service. Both provide exceptional comfort and service, but GoldLeaf Service includes additional amenities like a bi-level dome coach with panoramic windows and a separate dining area.
Unforgettable Experience:
A journey on the First Passage to the West route is not only about transportation but also about experiencing the beauty, history, and grandeur of Western Canada. Whether you choose to relax in the domed-glass railcars or enjoy the open-air observation deck, the journey offers an immersive and unforgettable way to explore this stunning region.
Travelers on this route are treated to a perfect blend of natural wonders and Canadian heritage, making it a favorite for those seeking an authentic and awe-inspiring rail adventure.
2 Day Rail through Banff
This 2-day journey takes you through some of Canada’s most stunning landscapes aboard the Rocky Mountaineer train. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your trip:
Day 1 – Vancouver to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
Your journey begins at the Vancouver Station at 7:30 AM PT.
Board the Rocky Mountaineer train and depart from the coastal city of Vancouver.
As you travel eastward, you’ll witness dramatic changes in scenery, from the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley to forests, winding river canyons, and the desert-like environment of the BC Interior.
Notable highlights include the rushing waters of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River.
Your day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along the shores of Kamloops Lake into the city of Kamloops, between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM PT.
Spend the evening exploring Kamloops or relaxing in your hotel room. The hotels in Kamloops are of moderate standard, and your hotel will be assigned post-booking.
Day 2 – Kamloops to Banff (Rocky Mountaineer):
Board the Rocky Mountaineer train at the Kamloops Station at 6:25 AM PT.
Your journey continues eastwards towards the mighty Canadian Rockies in the province of Alberta.
Throughout the day, you’ll witness a spectacular array of scenery, including ranchlands, rocky lakeshores, high mountain passes, and historic tunnels that are part of the Canadian Rockies’ rich rail history.
Highlights of the day include a stop at Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, a thrilling climb over Rogers Pass, passing through Kicking Horse Canyon, experiencing the Spiral Tunnels, and enjoying the breathtaking views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks in the Canadian Rockies.
Your rail journey concludes in the evening upon arrival in Banff, expected to be between 7:00 PM and 8:30 PM.
This short but breathtaking trip allows you to experience the diverse landscapes of Canada’s West, from the lush valleys to the rugged mountains, all while enjoying the luxurious comfort of the Rocky Mountaineer train.
2 Day Rail. Vancouver – Lake Louise
This 2-day journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer offers an unforgettable experience through the stunning landscapes of Canada’s West and the Canadian Rockies. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your trip:
Day 1 – Vancouver to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
Start your journey by boarding the Rocky Mountaineer train at Vancouver Station at 7:30 AM PT.
Travel from the coastal city of Vancouver to Kamloops, located in the heart of British Columbia’s interior.
Throughout the day, you’ll witness dramatic changes in scenery, from the lush green fields of the Fraser Valley to dense forests, winding river canyons, and the desert-like environment of the BC Interior.
Notable highlights include the exhilarating sight of Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon, where the waters rush through a narrow passage, and the impressive steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River.
Your first day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer follows the shores of Kamloops Lake into Kamloops, with an expected arrival between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM PT.
Spend the evening exploring Kamloops or relaxing in your hotel room. Please note that all hotels in Kamloops are of a moderate standard, and your hotel assignment will be provided post-booking.
Day 2 – Kamloops to Lake Louise (Rocky Mountaineer):
Begin your second day by boarding the Rocky Mountaineer train at Kamloops Station at 6:25 AM PT.
Your journey continues eastward towards the mighty Canadian Rockies and the province of Alberta.
Today’s route offers a spectacular array of scenery, including expansive ranchlands, picturesque rocky lakeshores, high mountain passes, and historic tunnels that are an integral part of the Canadian Rockies’ rail history.
Noteworthy highlights include a stop at Craigellachie, a historic site where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, traversing Rogers Pass, passing through the awe-inspiring Kicking Horse Canyon, experiencing the Spiral Tunnels, and enjoying the breathtaking vistas of glaciers and snow-capped peaks in the Canadian Rockies.
Your rail journey concludes upon arrival in Lake Louise between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM MT.
This two-day adventure provides a unique opportunity to experience the diverse and breathtaking landscapes of Western Canada and the Canadian Rockies from the comfort of the Rocky Mountaineer train. Enjoy the all-daylight rail travel and the stunning scenery along the way.
First Passage to the West, Classic Banff
This 6-day journey through Canada’s West on board the Rocky Mountaineer offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the stunning landscapes and natural beauty of Western Canada. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your trip:
Day 1 – Arrival in Vancouver:
Arrive in Vancouver, a scenic coastal city, and spend your first day exploring the area at your own pace. You can choose to visit Stanley Park, take a ferry to Granville Island, or explore other attractions.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 – Vancouver:
Enjoy a full day of free time to relax or participate in activities of your choice. Vancouver offers a wide range of options, from historic Gastown to lively Yaletown, or you can simply take a leisurely walk along the Stanley Park Seawall.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 3 – Vancouver to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
Begin your Rocky Mountaineer adventure by boarding the train in Vancouver. Departure is at 7:30 AM PT.
The journey today takes you from Vancouver to Kamloops, located in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. You’ll experience dramatic changes in scenery along the way, from the lush Fraser Valley to forests, winding river canyons, and the desert-like BC Interior.
Highlights include the awe-inspiring Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River.
The day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along the shores of Kamloops Lake into Kamloops.
Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 4 – Kamloops to Banff (Rocky Mountaineer):
Depart Kamloops aboard the Rocky Mountaineer at 6:25 AM PT, continuing your journey eastward into the Canadian Rockies and Alberta.
Today’s route offers a spectacular array of scenery, including ranchlands, rocky lakeshores, high mountain passes, and historic tunnels.
Highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the iconic Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, the renowned Spiral Tunnels, and the stunning glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
Your rail journey concludes in the charming resort town of Banff.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 5 – Banff:
Enjoy a full day in Banff with free time to explore, relax, or engage in activities of your choice. Banff offers a variety of options, including taking the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain, soaking in the Banff hot springs, exploring the town, or embarking on outdoor wildlife adventures.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 6 – Departure from Banff:
Your journey concludes upon checkout from your Banff hotel.
This itinerary offers a mix of leisurely exploration and breathtaking train travel through some of the most scenic regions of Western Canada, making it an unforgettable experience for travelers.
First Passage to the West, Excursion Lake Louise
This 7-day journey through the Canadian Rockies offers an unforgettable experience on board the Rocky Mountaineer. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your trip:
Day 1 – Arrival in Vancouver:
Arrive in Vancouver, a scenic coastal city, and spend your first day exploring the area at your own pace. You can choose to visit Stanley Park, take a ferry to Granville Island, or explore other attractions.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 – Vancouver:
Enjoy a full day of free time to relax or participate in activities of your choice. Vancouver offers a wide range of options, from historic Gastown to lively Yaletown, or you can simply take a leisurely walk along the Stanley Park Seawall.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 3 – Vancouver to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
Begin your Rocky Mountaineer adventure by boarding the train in Vancouver. Departure is at 7:30 AM PT.
The journey today takes you from Vancouver to Kamloops, located in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. You’ll experience dramatic changes in scenery along the way, from the lush Fraser Valley to forests, winding river canyons, and the desert-like BC Interior.
Highlights include the awe-inspiring Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River.
The day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along the shores of Kamloops Lake into Kamloops.
Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 4 – Kamloops to Lake Louise (Rocky Mountaineer):
Depart Kamloops aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, continuing your journey eastward into the Canadian Rockies and Alberta.
Today’s route offers a spectacular array of scenery, including ranchlands, rocky lakeshores, high mountain passes, and historic tunnels.
Highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the iconic Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, the renowned Spiral Tunnels, and the stunning glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
Your rail journey concludes in the picturesque Lake Louise.
Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 5 – Lake Louise:
Enjoy a full day in Lake Louise with free time to explore, relax, or engage in activities of your choice. Lake Louise is known for its unique history and breathtaking scenery, offering opportunities to learn about local wildlife, paddle the lake by canoe, or simply enjoy the natural beauty.
Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 6 – Lake Louise to Calgary (Sightseeing Transfer):
Today, you will embark on a full-day sightseeing transfer from Lake Louise to Calgary.
Start your morning with a sightseeing tour of Banff, where you’ll visit points of interest such as Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, and the Hoodoos.
Before leaving Banff, enjoy a visit to the Banff Gondola for panoramic views.
Your day concludes with an overnight stay in Calgary.
Day 7 – Departure from Calgary:
Your journey concludes upon check-out from your Calgary hotel.
This itinerary combines the stunning landscapes of Western Canada, leisurely exploration, and the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train journey, making it an incredible adventure through the Canadian Rockies.
First Passage to the West Discovery
This 9-day journey through the Canadian Rockies offers an unforgettable experience on the Rocky Mountaineer train. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your trip:
Day 1 – Arrival in Vancouver:
Arrive in Vancouver, a scenic coastal city, and spend your first day exploring the area at your own pace. You can choose to visit Stanley Park, take a ferry to Granville Island, or explore other attractions.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 – Vancouver:
Enjoy a full day of free time to relax or participate in activities of your choice. Vancouver offers a wide range of options, from historic Gastown to lively Yaletown, or you can simply take a leisurely walk along the Stanley Park Seawall.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 3 – Vancouver to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
Begin your Rocky Mountaineer adventure by boarding the train in Vancouver. Departure is at 7:30 AM PT.
The journey today takes you from Vancouver to Kamloops, located in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. You’ll experience dramatic changes in scenery along the way, from the lush Fraser Valley to forests, winding river canyons, and the desert-like BC Interior.
Highlights include the awe-inspiring Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River.
The day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along the shores of Kamloops Lake into Kamloops.
Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 4 – Kamloops to Lake Louise (Rocky Mountaineer):
Depart Kamloops aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, continuing your journey eastward into the Canadian Rockies and Alberta.
Today’s route offers a spectacular array of scenery, including ranchlands, rocky lakeshores, high mountain passes, and historic tunnels.
Highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the iconic Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, the renowned Spiral Tunnels, and the stunning glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
Your rail journey concludes in the picturesque Lake Louise.
Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 5 – Lake Louise:
Enjoy a full day in Lake Louise with free time to explore, relax, or engage in activities of your choice. Lake Louise is known for its unique history and breathtaking scenery, offering opportunities to learn about local wildlife, paddle the lake by canoe, or simply enjoy the natural beauty.
Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 6 – Lake Louise to Banff (Sightseeing Transfer):
Spend your morning exploring beautiful Lake Louise on your own.
After lunch, embark on a half-day transfer to Yoho National Park to witness natural wonders such as the Spiral Tunnels, Emerald Lake, and a natural rock bridge spanning the Kicking Horse River.
Later, you’ll be transferred to Banff.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 7 – Banff:
Enjoy a full day in Banff with free time to relax or participate in activities of your choice. Banff offers a wide range of options, from relaxing in the Banff hot springs to exploring the vibrant town or engaging in outdoor wildlife adventures.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 8 – Banff to Calgary (Sightseeing Transfer):
Begin your full-day sightseeing transfer from Banff to Calgary. The morning includes a Banff sightseeing tour featuring Bow Falls, Surprise Corner, and the Hoodoos.
Before departing Banff, enjoy a visit to the Banff Gondola for stunning panoramic views.
Your day concludes with an overnight stay in Calgary.
Day 9 – Departure from Calgary:
Your journey ends upon check-out from your Calgary hotel.
This itinerary combines the breathtaking landscapes of Western Canada, leisurely exploration, and the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train journey, making it a memorable adventure through the Canadian Rockies.
First Passage to the West, Classic Lake Louise
Your 6-day journey through the stunning Canadian landscape onboard Rocky Mountaineer is sure to be a memorable experience. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your trip:
Day 1 – Arrival in Vancouver:
Arrive in Vancouver, a scenic coastal city, and spend your first day exploring the area at your own pace. You can choose to visit Stanley Park, take a ferry to Granville Island, or explore other attractions.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 – Vancouver:
Enjoy a full day of free time to relax or participate in activities of your choice. Vancouver offers a wide range of options, from historic Gastown to lively Yaletown, or you can simply take a leisurely walk along the Stanley Park Seawall.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 3 – Vancouver to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
Begin your Rocky Mountaineer adventure by boarding the train in Vancouver. Departure is at 7:30 AM PT.
The journey today takes you from Vancouver to Kamloops, located in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. You’ll experience dramatic changes in scenery along the way, from the lush Fraser Valley to forests, winding river canyons, and the desert-like BC Interior.
Highlights include the awe-inspiring Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the steep slopes and rock sheds along the Thompson River.
The day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along the shores of Kamloops Lake into Kamloops.
Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 4 – Kamloops to Lake Louise (Rocky Mountaineer):
Depart Kamloops aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, continuing your journey eastward into the Canadian Rockies and Alberta.
Today’s route offers a spectacular array of scenery, including ranchlands, rocky lakeshores, high mountain passes, and historic tunnels.
Highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, the iconic Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, the renowned Spiral Tunnels, and the stunning glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
Your rail journey ends in the mountain hamlet of Lake Louise.
Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 5 – Lake Louise:
Enjoy a full day in Lake Louise with free time to explore, relax, or engage in activities of your choice. Lake Louise is known for its unique history and breathtaking scenery, offering opportunities to learn about local wildlife, paddle the lake by canoe, or simply enjoy the natural beauty.
Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 6 – Departure from Lake Louise:
Your journey ends upon check-out from your Lake Louise hotel.
This itinerary combines the unmatched beauty of Western Canada, leisurely exploration, and the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train journey, making it an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.
First Passage to the West, Excursion Banff
Your 7-day journey through the scenic landscapes of Western Canada, including the iconic Rocky Mountaineer experience, is bound to be a fantastic adventure. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your trip:
Day 1 – Arrival in Vancouver:
Arrive in Vancouver, a beautiful coastal city, and spend your first day exploring the area at your own pace. Options include discovering Stanley Park, taking a ferry to Granville Island, or enjoying other attractions.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 – Vancouver:
Enjoy a full day of free time in Vancouver to relax or engage in activities of your choice. Vancouver offers a variety of options, from exploring historic Gastown to dining in lively Yaletown or taking a leisurely walk along the Stanley Park Seawall.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 3 – Vancouver to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
Embark on your Rocky Mountaineer journey from Vancouver to Kamloops, located in the heart of British Columbia’s interior. Departure is in the morning.
During this leg of the journey, you’ll witness dramatic changes in scenery, from the lush Fraser Valley to forests, winding river canyons, and the arid landscapes of the BC interior.
Highlights include the awe-inspiring Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the stunning Thompson River.
The day ends as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along Kamloops Lake into Kamloops.
Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 4 – Kamloops to Banff (Rocky Mountaineer):
Continue your Rocky Mountaineer adventure as you journey eastward towards the Canadian Rockies and Alberta.
First Passage to the West, Grand Adventure
Your 10-day journey through the stunning Canadian Rocky Mountains promises to be a memorable adventure. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your trip:
Day 1 – Arrival in Vancouver:
Arrive in Vancouver, a scenic coastal city, and spend your first day exploring the area at your own pace. Options include discovering Stanley Park, taking a ferry to Granville Island, or enjoying other attractions.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 2 – Vancouver:
Enjoy a full day of free time in Vancouver to relax or engage in activities of your choice. Vancouver offers a variety of options, from exploring historic Gastown to dining in lively Yaletown or taking a leisurely walk along the Stanley Park Seawall.
Overnight in Vancouver.
Day 3 – Vancouver to Kamloops (Rocky Mountaineer):
Begin your Rocky Mountaineer journey from Vancouver to Kamloops, located in British Columbia’s interior. Departure is in the morning.
Witness dramatic scenery changes as you travel through the Fraser Valley, forests, winding river canyons, and the arid BC interior.
Highlights include the awe-inspiring Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and the stunning Thompson River.
The day concludes as the Rocky Mountaineer travels along Kamloops Lake into Kamloops.
Overnight in Kamloops.
Day 4 – Kamloops to Banff (Rocky Mountaineer):
Continue your Rocky Mountaineer adventure eastward towards the Canadian Rockies and Alberta.
Experience ever-changing landscapes, including ranchlands, rocky lakeshores, high mountain passes, and historic tunnels.
Highlights include Craigellachie, where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was driven, Rogers Pass, Kicking Horse Canyon, Spiral Tunnels, and the iconic glaciers and snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies.
Your rail journey ends in the resort town of Banff.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 5 – Banff:
Spend the day in Banff with free time for relaxation or activities of your choice. Options include taking the gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain, enjoying the Banff hot springs, exploring the town, or embarking on outdoor wildlife adventures.
Overnight in Banff.
Day 6 – Banff to Lake Louise:
In the morning, embark on a half-day transfer into Yoho National Park to explore natural wonders. Attractions include the Spiral Tunnels, Emerald Lake, and a natural rock bridge over the Kicking Horse River.
The transfer concludes in Lake Louise, where you’ll have the afternoon to enjoy this awe-inspiring location.
Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 7 – Lake Louise:
Enjoy a free day in Lake Louise to relax or engage in activities as desired. Lake Louise offers unique history and picturesque scenery, with options such as learning about local wildlife, paddling the lake by canoe, or simply taking in the beauty.
Overnight in Lake Louise.
Day 8 – Lake Louise to Jasper (Icefields Parkway):
Embark on a sightseeing tour from Lake Louise to Jasper via the stunning Icefields Parkway. Highlights include Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefield, Glacier Skywalk, and Athabasca Falls.
At the Columbia Icefield, ride an Ice Explorer to the middle of the Athabasca Glacier to learn about its geological features.
Lunch is provided at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre, and you’ll arrive in Jasper late afternoon.
Overnight in Jasper.
Day 9 – Jasper:
Spend the day in Jasper with free time for relaxation or engaging in various activities in the resort town and the surrounding national park.
Overnight in Jasper.
Day 10 – Departure from Jasper:
Your journey concludes upon check-out from your Jasper hotel.
This itinerary offers a perfect balance of relaxation and exploration, showcasing the incredible beauty and natural wonders of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Enjoy your unforgettable journey!