There is no better way to experience the Canadian Rockies than travelling onboard the Rocky Mountaineer. With three distinctive rail routes connecting urban Vancouver to the Alberta mountain towns of Jasper, Banff and Lake Louise, it’s easy to mix wilderness viewing with urban dining and sightseeing.
Banff National Park offers breathtaking peaks, glacier-fed lakes and countless of wildlife, and is one of the highlights of any Rocky Mountaineer rail tour. The park’s natural features are endless: from the beauty of Lake Minnewanka, to gorgeous canyons and waterfalls along the Bow Valley Parkway, to the relaxing waters of Banff Upper Hot Springs. Ride the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain to view six mountain ranges, the town itself and the Bow Valley. When in town, discover the culinary culture with plenty of restaurants to choose from.
A short drive from Banff lies Lake Louise. Visiting the turquoise waters of Lake Louise is a bucket list item for many. If you’re feeling adventurous – rent a canoe or kayak from the boat house to get out on the water. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxing experience, afternoon tea at Fairmont Lake Louise is an unforgettable experience.
Jasper is a destination on both the Journey through the Clouds rail route, and the Rainforest to Gold Rush route. Known for countless adventure opportunities, from watching wildlife to extensive hiking. Jasper National Park is also Canada’s second largest dark sky preserve, welcoming you to view the unbelievable stars once night falls.
Don’t forget to explore the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver. Experience the city’s neighbourhoods, shopping districts and inspiring museums, before hitting up Vancouver’s bustling restaurant scene.
Depending on the route you choose, your rail journey may include stops at other unforgettable Rocky Mountain communities. First passage from to the West and Journey through the Clouds, includes a visit in Kamloops, a riverside city with great farm-to-table restaurants, local pubs and beautiful parks. Guests travelling on the Rainforest to Gold Rush rail route spend a night in Quesnel, a historic gold mining town in British Columbia’s interior, and in Whistler. Whistler is home to four championship golf courses, an alpine village filled with great shopping and restaurants, and numerous spas. Or get active and zipline, cycle, hike the trails, or take in the view from the gondola. No matter which rail route you chose to travel, the Rocky Mountaineer will surely provide an exceptional journey through the untamed Canadian wilderness.
If you’re considering a Rocky Mountaineer journey, the experts at CAA Travel can help! Contact a CAA Travel Consultant, visit your local CAA branch or call 1-800-263-7272 to begin making your Rocky Mountaineer dream a reality.
Ontario