The Memorable Best Train Trip In Canada

Canada is filled with stunning landscapes along with scenery that are best appreciated from the windows of a train. From coast to coast, Canada’s rail routes as well as luxury trains take you through forests, over mountains, past shimmering lakes, as well as into charming towns, offering unforgettable views as well as experiences. In this blog you’ll get to know what is the best train trip in Canada. Here are five of the best and most scenic train trips across this vast country.

The Rocky Mountaineer Across the Canadian Rockies 

The most iconic of Canada’s train trips is undoubtedly aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. This luxury passenger train travels between Vancouver on the Pacific coast to Banff along with Jasper National Parks, home to beautiful snow-capped mountains, glistening glaciers, emerald lakes, as well as abundant wildlife. Taking this 2-day journey lets you soak in the incredible views at a relaxed pace with overnight hotel stays.

VIA Rail’s The Canadian from Toronto to Vancouver

For an epic cross-country trip, hop onboard VIA Rail’s famous “Canadian” train that runs between Toronto and Vancouver. This 3-day, 4-night journey crosses 4,500 kilometers and 5 different time zones! Traversing Canada from east to west, the views change dramatically from the green farmlands of Ontario to the pristine northern lakes and finally to the majestic Rocky Mountains and beyond. Favorite moments include watching the sunrise over sparkling Lake Superior in Northern Ontario and waking up to panoramas of snow-capped peaks in Alberta and British Columbia. 

The Ocean Route Along the East Coast 

On Canada’s east coast, the Ocean train route operated by VIA Rail offers a captivating journey between Montreal along the St. Lawrence River to the seaside provinces. Running overnight for 21 hours, this route whisks you to the beautiful port cities of the Maritimes including Moncton, Halifax and Truro, Nova Scotia. Brightly-colored fishing villages, lighthouses, coastal views and the chance to spot whales, eagles and moose make for an exciting rails adventure.

Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express 

For a unique wintery getaway, head north to Cochrane, Ontario to board the Polar Bear Express. This magical round-trip train rides along icy lakes and through snow-covered boreal forest where you just might spot moose and lumbering bears. The highlight is arriving at the tiny village of Moosonee along the James Bay coast where you can go on a sled-dog excursion, meet the friendly Cree locals or gaze at the magnificent Northern Lights dancing overhead, away from light pollution. 

Whistler Mountaineer from Vancouver to Whistler

Just a 90-minute trip north of Vancouver awaits the adventure capital of North America – the mountain resort town of Whistler! By hopping on the Whistler Mountaineer rail service, you’ll journey along coastlines and rivers while watching the coastal rainforest give way to the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains. It’s an effortless way to enjoy both cities, whether you want to stop at the bustling Vancouver waterfront or head straight for adventures like skiing and ziplining in Whistler. 

Conclusion  

With jaw-dropping scenery around every bend, these Canadian Rail Tours are one of the best ways to soak in magnificent landscapes across this vast country. Whether it’s coasting past Pacific surf and islands, traversing the mighty Canadian shield and Great Lakes, spotting wildlife in the eastern woodlands, or being awed by the dramatic and humbling Rocky Mountains, these iconic routes offer unique adventures.