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Canada & Alaska rail journeys

Embarking on a rail journey is an exciting and novel way to appreciate a region’s history, wildlife and natural beauty, whether you’re aboard a modern train with panoramic windows, or a traditional 19th-century-style car.

Travel across Canada’s mountainous landscapes, dotted with glacier-fed lakes and historic rural towns, or venture into Alaska’s untamed wilderness to follow in the footsteps of those seeking fortune during the Klondike Gold Rush.

Canada rail journeys

By Anna , Canada & Alaska specialist

Toronto to Vancouver on The Canadian

The train company Via Rail runs throughout Canada , and The Canadian train covers its popular Toronto -to- Vancouver route.

The journey demonstrates the variety of Canada’s landscapes. From Toronto to Winnipeg you’ll pass quiet lakes and dense forests, which thin out into flat farmland as you head toward Jasper . From there, you’ll travel through the heart of the Rockies . For this stretch, you pass huge snow-capped mountains set one in front of the other, thickset pine trees lining rock strewn rivers, and freshwater lakes with distinctive turquoise water.

There are different cabin options on board, including private cabins and individual berths. We recommend Sleeper Plus, which includes a cabin for one to four guests. These have seating that can be converted into beds, and en suite toilets.

Another recommended option is Prestige class cabins. These have the feel of a small five-star hotel room, featuring a comfortable double bed, flatscreen TV, all meals and drinks as well as a butler service. However this is particularly popular, so you might need to book well in advance.

During the day, I suggest spending time in the communal glass-roofed carriage, which has panoramic views of the mountains. The train’s interpretive guides will tell you more about the area you’re passing through, and the driver will make an announcement if any bears or other wildlife are sighted. Entertainment is provided on board, including wine tasting and musical performances.

The entire journey takes four nights and five days, covering a distance of 4,466 km (2,775 miles). If short on time, you can choose to travel just part of the route.

Montréal to Halifax on The Ocean

Via Rail’s The Ocean runs for 1,346 km (836 miles) between Montréal in Québec and the port town of Halifax — Nova Scotia’s capital. En route, you pass through French-speaking Québec City , the province’s countryside dotted with wildflower meadows, rural towns and villages, and the scenic maritime province of New Brunswick.

While much of the 23-hour journey is inland, the train skirts the rugged coastline as you begin to approach Halifax, where the ocean is in close view from your picture window.

Between Montréal and Québec City, the train runs along the St. Lawrence River, while further north you’ll approach the Laurentian Mountains . Carpeted in forest, these differ to the bare peaks of the Rockies. During the fall (September to October) you can see the trees in their autumn cloaks as the leaves turn from green to orange and crimson.

The train’s large windows and glass-roofed dome carriage give you a good chance of spotting wildlife. I was thrilled to see moose from my seat, their large antlers poking up from the vegetation. Black bears also roam the surrounding wilderness and you might spot them if you’re lucky. Deer quietly graze at the side of the track and eagles glide overhead as they search for food.

I recommend stopping off at Québec City — one of the best cities I’ve ever visited. The oldest fortified city in North America, its historic heart resembles an old French village in its cobbled streets lined with cafés and bistros.

It’s also worth exploring the Moncton area in New Brunswick . Here, you can hire a car and visit towns around the Bay of Fundy , which experiences one of the highest tides in the world. It’s strange to see boats sitting in mud in the harbours, only to return a few hours later and notice how much higher the water has lifted them.

The Ocean offers Economy and Sleeper Plus classes. While the Economy class doesn’t offer private cabins, seats are comfortable with plenty of legroom, and blankets and pillows can be purchased. Sleeper Plus-class carriages, meanwhile, have private cabins for one or two passengers, with sofas folding into bunk beds at night. You’ll also have your own toilet and closet, and some have private showers.

Sleeper-class guests also have priority reservations in the dining car and all refreshments are included in their journey. I was very impressed with the standard of food, which was on par with a high quality-restaurant. You’re offered at least three meal choices, from fresh salmon to vegetarian dishes.

The train is used by Canadians for everyday travel, and you’ll meet fellow passengers over a drink in the two public lounges. During my time on board, guitars were played, stories were told and songs were sung, helping to pass the evenings.

Jasper to Prince Rupert on The Skeena

The Skeena train runs between Jasper in the Rocky Mountains and the small port city of Prince Rupert on British Columbia’s coast.

Part of the northern transcontinental line completed in 1914, this historic journey is seen by many Canadians as the most scenic of all Canada’s rail routes. It takes you through the wild and rugged Jasper National Park, with its glaciers, pristine lakes and towering peaks, past the dizzying heights of the Rockies and along the winding Skeena River. You have a good chance of spotting wildlife from your seat, including bears, moose, wolves, elk and eagles.

You’ll pass old sawmills, farms and remote settlements, where many of the residents rarely venture from the countryside. Some of the stops seem to be in the middle of nowhere, with no station and only a couple of people getting on and off the train.

On selected departures between June and September, Touring class passengers have exclusive access to the train’s Panorama and Park cars, which have spacious lounges and large windows stretching to the ceiling so you can see the passing landscape from all angles.

Covering a distance of 1,160 km (721 miles), the journey takes two days, with an overnight stop in the small city of Prince George .

Alaska rail journeys

By Jon , Canada & Alaska specialist

The White Pass & Yukon Route runs through Canada’s Yukon territory and southern Alaska

Running between Whitehorse in northwestern Canada and Skagway  in southern Alaska , the White Pass & Yukon Route passes through the Yukon territory’s wild and remote landscape. It was built during the Klondike Gold Rush in 1898 by thousands of men who blasted their way through mountains to ease access to the gold mines, completing it in just over two years.

Today, you can take one-way or round-trip journeys along the railway aboard a steam or diesel train. You’ll pass mountains dappled with evergreens, deep gorges carved out by rivers, and frothy waterfalls spilling over rocks. Excitement mounts as you cross trestle bridges and enter dark tunnels cut into the rock.

I particularly liked the way the track wound its way along the sides of mountains, so you can look out and see the front of the train curving around the cliff edge. It dawns on you how much effort must have gone into building the railway at that time, and you begin to appreciate the sheer determination and perseverance of the gold miners who made the journey on foot before the track was built.

Another impressive aspect of the journey is the degree to which the train climbs, ascending around 900 m (3,000 ft) in just 32 km (20 miles) as the landscape changes around you, from spring flowers and swathes of tall trees to deep snow.

The train cars are very traditional in style, made of wood with large square windows and brass door handles. What stood out for me was the helpfulness of the staff, who’ll talk about the history of the route and the area’s gold mining past throughout the journey.

Our conductor wore a traditional outfit complete with white gloves and a round, squared-off hat. He was very proud of his job, agreeing to pose for a photograph beside an old rail car, surrounded by the immense mountain scenery.

Despite being a popular attraction with visitors, this train ride still retains a nostalgic, historical feel that seems true to the route’s past. This is helped by small touches such as the old-fashioned printed guidebooks left on each seat, which detail what you can expect to see at certain points on the journey.

Many of the original wooden rail bridges have been kept along the route. Now abandoned, they make for interesting viewing as you pass by their crumbling ruins, knowing that soon they’ll fall into the chasm below.

Trip ideas for your Canada & Alaska rail journey

Canada's eastern cities by train

11 days from £3,485pp

Alaska cruise & Canadian Rockies by train

16 days from £6,995pp

Alaska by train & self-drive

15 days from £13,995pp

Start thinking about your experience. These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy some of the same experiences as our specialists. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Further reading

• How to see the northern lights in Canada and Alaska
• Wildlife holidays in Canada, Alaska & the Arctic
• What to do in Alaska: our highlights guide
• Self-drive holidays in Canada
• More train journeys from around the world

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Rail Trips Across Canada

One of the greatest adventures you can take is one of our iconic rail trips across Canada departing from Vancouver to Toronto and Montreal to Halifax.

We’ve tried, tested and perfected these journeys to include some of the most stunning scenery in the country, from the mountains and ocean of western canada through to the prairies and eclectic towns of the east., complete with customized aspects to suit your own unique style, sit back in a glass-domed viewing car by day and sink into sleep in your cozy quarters by night – more gourmet meals and picturesque views will be waiting again tomorrow..

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"Thanks Canada Rail Vacations for putting together and planning such a trouble free, smooth running package."

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"We cannot thank everyone enough for their professionalism and organisational skills."

Hazel Scotland

"We did the "Rail & Drive Across Canada" with you & it was wonderful. A Bucket List dream come true!"

Rita Illinois, United States

"Thanks for a great holiday. The Rockies - awesome, Victoria- beautiful. Whistler- magic."

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"Thank you so much for a wonderful vacation that created memories for our lifetime! You did a great job!"

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"Thanks very much to Jasmine for helping to organise our wonderful holiday from Vancouver across the Rockies to Calgary."

Graham Perth, Australia

"It was a very memorable trip and I highly recommend to all."

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" The whales very kindly decided to perform when I was whale watching. "

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"Excellent trip. Well planned out. We were able to get all our additional destinations accommodated. "

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"From start to finish it was an ideal trip for us to enjoy Canada scenery, atmosphere and hospitality. "

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AlaskaTrain.com

Alaska Tour & Travel

Train to Alaska

Can you take the train to Alaska?

No, unfortunately, you cannot. The Alaska Railroad operates in south central and interior Alaska, from Seward to Fairbanks. There is no connection to the rail system in Canada. You may hear about another railway in Alaska called the White Pass and Yukon Route . This service offers scenic tours out of Skagway to the Canadian Yukon. It is a popular shore excursion for cruise passenger visiting Skagway, but again, there is no connection to the Alaska Railroad.

There has been talk over the years about connecting Alaska to Canada or the “lower 48” by train, but little progress has been made. Sometimes people who ask about this are looking for alternatives for getting to Alaska other than flying. With that in mind, here are a few ways to get to Alaska without flying. 

• Take a cruise ship. Princess Cruises and Holland America Line offer seven day cruise between Whittier and Vancouver, British Columbia. Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean Cruises offer the same, but use Seward as their turnaround port. We can help if you want to book an Alaska Cruise or need more information on cruises.
• Take the ferry. Visit the Alaska Marine Highway web site for more information.  You can take a passenger ferry from Bellingham Washington to Whittier Alaska, for example.
• Drive. It is about 2300 miles from Seattle to Anchorage and for the most part the roads are in pretty good shape.

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What cities are served by the Alaska Railroad? Where can I learn more about the Alaska Railroad?

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Cross Canada Train

A   transformative   experience:   luxury   train   tours   across   canada.

Climbing aboard VIA Rail’s classic trains is like stepping into a golden past. Departing from the Pacific Ocean on Canada’s West Coast in Vancouver, you will travel through mountains, forests, over rivers and prairies, and along lakes across Canada to Toronto aboard our iconic The Canadian train. Continue your journey with VIA Rail on the Corridor train to historic Montreal, or even take the Ocean train along the rugged shores of the Maritime provinces and reach the Atlantic Ocean in Halifax. These trains will make the natural beauty and history of Canada real to you. Great for train enthusiasts, adventure seekers, families, and those celebrating milestone moments, travel aboard VIA Rail will deliver opportunities to see untamed wildlife, Canada’s exquisite natural wonders, hand-crafted local cuisine, and meet new friends on the train.

Have   a   Romantic   Cross   Canada   Train   Trip   for   Two

When our guests book overnight train trips, we provide rooms aboard VIA Rail’s Sleeper Plus class Cabins for Two. During the day, you’ll enjoy the scenery from the privacy of your private cabin while reclining on a seat or couch; at night, your bed will be rolled out and you’ll be rocked asleep by the gentle sway of the train. You’ll have access to a private wash closet – bathroom – sink, vanity, closet, and electrical outlets within your cabin; each railcar shares a shower room. Solo travelers have extra room in their private cabin for two to enjoy additional space to enjoy the luxury of Across Canada rail travel.

During the day you are free to wander through the train and utilize its many cars. You take meals in the dining car as you enjoy the rolling scenery, you might spend some time in the lounge listening to live music, or you might have a drink at the bar or make your way to the dome section in the Skyline car where you will be able to experience the uninterrupted landscape beneath the glass dome. Meals are included and made fresh on board meaning you always have several options to choose from and accommodations can be made for allergies or dietary restrictions.

Enhance   your   Ride   on   The   Canadian   train   with   a   Prestige   Upgrade

Guests traveling aboard The Canadian train who want to make their experience aboard VIA Rail even more special have the opportunity to upgrade to Prestige class. In Prestige, you will enjoy an upgraded, luxurious cabin, complete with a private washroom and shower, a flatscreen TV, an L-shaped couch by day and a two-person Murphy bed by night, complete with an extra-large window to enjoy the breathtaking sights of Canada’s diverse beauty. Personalized concierge service is available to you for the entirety of your trip, fresh meals will be prepared for you on board, and all drinks are complimentary. You will also enjoy access to the Prestige Park Car where you can take advantage of wine tastings and interactive talks on local history, geography and culture.

Travel with Canada Rail Vacations aboard VIA Rail can take you across mountain ranges, through rushing river gorges, across many kilometres of prairies and lakes, and through eight Canadian provinces. You’ll see British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. You’ll travel through Vancouver, Jasper, Edmonton, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax on your journey of a lifetime!

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Best Canadian Train Trips

Canada is home to some of the most scenic train trips in the world. The best Canadian rail journeys immerse you in our country’s awe-inspiring scenery. You can sit in a glass-domed car and take in the Canadian coasts, prairies or Canadian Rockies. Plus, the service on these trains pampers you. You can enjoy delicious food and relax in a luxe sleeper cabin or lounge chair.

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Top twelve scenic train rides in canada, canadian rail journey tips, exploring canada by train, types of train trips available across canada, best canadian train routes, canadian regions to explore by train, frequently asked questions.

Canadian Train Vacations is Canada’s largest tour operator specializing in train trips. We know the top Canadian train routes. Some are a quick tour of the country's highlights. Others offer a leisurely journey across the prairies, mountains and coastlines. You'll find your perfect train trip in Canada in our list below. 

These routes are just the starting point for our travel advisors. At Canadian Train Vacations, we specialize in creating personalized train vacations to Canada. Unlike typical travel companies, we reject the one-size-fits-all approach to travel. We create unique Canadian experiences tailored to you and your loved ones. You pick your hotel class, rail service, dining options, excursions and activities.

Take a look at our suggested itineraries and get inspired.  Then contact us to start planning your dream train vacation.

Keep reading or chat with one of our local travel experts. We’re passionate about Canada and can help you at any stage of your vacation planning.

Canada Coast to Coast by Train

The Coast to Coast by train is the ultimate train trip across Canada. You’ll see the country’s top highlights, including Peggy’s Cove, Niagara Falls and Lake Louise. This trip includes time on VIA Rail, in a sleeper cabin, and on the Rocky Mountaineer. 

The route goes from Halifax to Vancouver, and can also be done in the reverse direction. The first leg of this scenic train ride in Canada is on VIA Rail's The Ocean train from Halifax to Quebec City. True to its name, this train takes you along Canada's Atlantic Coast.

Quebec City is a UNESCO heritage site has many historic landmarks and museums. From here, a short train ride on VIA Rail takes you to Montreal, where you can enjoy the French culture in Canada. This can include private food tours and walking tours of Old Montreal. With its architecture and French influence, the city has a very European feel.

Another short train ride takes you to Toronto. Once in Toronto, Canada’s largest city, you have time to explore. Our travel experts recommend a day trip out to see Niagara Falls. Next, you board The Canadian train in Toronto to travel to Jasper. On this part of the trip, you will see the prairies and the Canadian Shield. 

Once in Jasper, you have time to explore the Rockies. Travelling westbound, you experience Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West route. This takes you from Banff, through Kamloops into Vancouver. 

Miles covered on train : 3,240 

Days on train : 5 

Nights on train : 4 

Ultimate Canadian Rockies by Rail

For the top train trip in the Canadian Rockies, we recommend the Ultimate Canadian Rockies by Rail. This package includes time in a private cabin on VIA Rail, between Vancouver and Jasper. You also have time to explore Banff and Jasper. Plus there's two full days on the Rocky Mountaineer, between Banff and Vancouver. You can make this trip in either direction. 

Like all our trips, speak to your travel advisor about personalizing your trip. Choices include guided nature walks, a boat cruise on Maligne Lake, and a motorcycle sidecar tour in Jasper. 

Miles covered on train : 1,025 

Days on train : 3 

Nights on train : 1 

Complete Canadian Rockies by Rail

Our most popular selling Canadian vacation gives you eight days to discover the Rockies. This includes two full days on a sightseeing dome car on the Rocky Mountaineer. This trip has the option of going eastbound, from Vancouver to Calgary, or westbound. You’ll have time to explore Jasper, Banff and Lake Louise. Your travel advisor can arrange personalized activities for you, such as canoeing, guided hikes, horseback riding, spa treatments and food tours. 

Miles covered on train : 594 

Days on train : 2 

Nights on train : N/A 

Lords of the Wilderness Bear Viewing

This trip combines excellent wildlife viewing experiences with a train journey across Canada from Vancouver to Winnipeg. Start your adventure on the West Coast, where you travel to a wilderness lodge to view grizzly bears. Then, hop onboard The Canadian train in Vancouver and enjoy the journey through the Canadian Rockies before arriving in Winnipeg. From here, fly north to Churchill, a remote community in Northern Manitoba and the Polar Bear Capital of the World. Spend three days exploring the arctic tundra and searching for polar bears before flying back to Winnipeg. 

Miles covered on train : 1159 

Nights on train : 2 

Canada Eastern Rail Classic  

Discover highlights of Eastern Canada on this train trip, which includes a night on-board VIA Rail’s Ocean train. This is another trip which can be done in either direction, between Montreal and Halifax. You’ll spend time exploring Montreal and Quebec City. Hotel options include the historic Chateau Le Frontenac. While in Halifax, join a tour to Peggy’s Cove to see one of the world’s most photographed lighthouses. 

Miles covered on train : 835 

Days on train : 1 

Across Canada by Train

Discover some of the best destinations in Canada with the Across Canada by Train tour. This train journey begins in Toronto and ends in Vancouver, allowing you to visit two major cities and some of Canada's most popular outdoor attractions. The 13-day itinerary includes Jasper National Park, Icefields Parkway and Lake Louise, making it the perfect choice for adventurous travellers.

Miles covered on train : 2,428 

Days on train :  5

Nights on train : 3

Discover Whistler and the Canadian Rockies by Rail 

Possibly the best West Coast train trip if you want ocean views, this route travels along scenic Howe Sound. This itinerary takes travellers between Vancouver and Calgary and includes a scenic tour of Icefields Parkway. Customize your trip with extra activities in Banff National Park or Jasper National Park.

Miles covered on train : 717 

Days on train :  2.5

Nights on train : 0

Trans Canada by Rail in Winter 

This train tour from Vancouver to Toronto is the perfect Canadian winter adventure. Board the train in Vancouver, then stop in the Canadian Rockies for some winter sightseeing and activities. See snow-capped mountains, then re-board the train and travel across the prairies before arriving in Toronto.   

Miles covered on train : 2,762 

Days on train : 4 

Canadian History and Culture by Rail 

This Eastern Canada train trip lets you explore the best of Ontario and Quebec in 10 days. After your arrival in Toronto, you are whisked away to the charming town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, which sits on the shores of Lake Ontario. Here, you have the chance to visit thundering Niagara Falls or discover the area’s beautiful vineyards on a winery tour.

Then you’ll head back to Toronto, before taking VIA Rail’s Corridor train to Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec City. This trip itinerary includes a day in each of these cities, so you can discover the highlights on your choice of sightseeing activities. As you travel by train between Toronto and Quebec City, you’re treated to stunning views of the countryside.

Miles covered on train : 452

Nights on train : 0 

Essential Rockies with Alaska Cruise

Fancy ticking off two bucket list experiences in one trip? Our Essential Rockies with Alaska Cruise itinerary combines a luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train journey with a small ship Alaska cruise. You’ll get to see the highlights of Banff National Park, including Lake Louise, before taking the train to Vancouver. The Rocky Mountaineer takes you through the Spiral Tunnels, Rogers Pass, and the desert-like landscape of British Columbia’s interior.

You’ll fly from Vancouver to Sitka, Alaska, to begin your 7-night cruise. On this small ship cruise, you’ll see ancient glaciers, remote bays, and vast fjords in Southeast Alaska, with opportunities to enjoy whale watching, kayaking, hiking, and more.

Miles covered on train : 559

Canadian Train and Polar Bear Experience

This trip combines a sleeper-train journey from Vancouver to Winnipeg with a multi-day polar bear tour in Churchill. The train takes you through the Canadian Rockies and across the prairie provinces. Once you arrive in Winnipeg, Manitoba’s capital city, there's time to explore the city’s top attractions, including the Forks Market. Then you’ll travel to the remote town of Churchill, known as the polar bear capital of the world, for polar bear viewing, dogsledding, and more.

Miles covered on train : 1159

Rockies Rail Winter Wonderland

If you’re looking for a winter train trip through the Canadian Rockies, our Rockies Rail Winter Wonderland itinerary is for you. Board VIA Rail’s Canadian train in Vancouver and enjoy an overnight journey to Jasper. This is a sleeper train experience, where you can relax in a cozy private cabin as the snow falls outside your window.  Once you arrive in Jasper, you’ll have four days to explore frozen lakes, icy canyons, and snow-capped mountains. Activity highlights could include a sleigh ride in Lake Louise, dogsledding in Banff, and an ice walk tour in Jasper.

Miles covered on train : 532

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Get inspired with sample itineraries, train information, route maps, and travel advice from our local experts.

Train travel in Canada is like taking a scenic tour across the country . If you want to see the best of Canada, there's no better way than taking the train. Here are some important things to know about travelling by train: 

• Most trains run every few days. This allows you to enjoy a scenic train journey, then get off the train for some time to explore each destination. 
• You'll stay in hotels when you're not on the overnight train. We offer different classes of hotels, depending on your preferences and budget. 
• You’ll get access to unparalleled views. See wildlife and the best sights in the Canadian Rockies where there are no roads. 
• It’s a great way to achieve ultimate relaxation. Disconnect from the world as you sit back in your luxurious seat. Enjoy exquisite food, wine, and views. 
• There’s lots of opportunities to explore. At almost every destination, we offer activity add ons.

#1 Travel tip: Set your activity level

Your trip can be as active or adventurous as you like. Trek on an ancient glacier or see one on a helicopter ride. Relax in a spa or enjoy a local food tour.

Rocky Mountaineer 

The famous Rocky Mountaineer train connects British Columbia and Alberta, running through the Canadian Rockies. It only runs during the day. There are scenic unique routes, with stops in Jasper, Banff, Lake Louise, Vancouver or Whistler. 

The train offers two levels of service, GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf. GoldLeaf has a full-domed upper level, with spacious reclining seats. Guests eat in the lower-level dining room. Other amenities include an outdoor viewing platform, complimentary beverages and snacks, and dedicated hosts. 

In SilverLeaf , guests dine at their seat, next to large picture windows. There is a small, enclosed outdoor area.

Via Rail 

As Canada’s major passenger rail service, VIA Rail connects Canada from Vancouver to Halifax. It offers four different train routes. Major city stops include Vancouver, Jasper, Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec and Halifax. Depending on the train route, VIA Rail offers daylight or overnight sleeper train experiences. Its train cars feature large picture windows, so you can take in the vast Canadian landscape. Some trains offer a Panorama car, where giant windows extend to the ceiling. 

#2 Travel tip: Cover more Canada on the train

For first-time visitors to Canada who want to take in as much as possible, a trans-Canada train journey is an ideal trip. Add time in terminal cities, such as Vancouver, Toronto, and Halifax to explore.

1. Daylight Train 

The Rocky Mountaineer runs from April to the end of September during daylight hours. It follows this schedule to make the most of the amazing views in the Canadian Rockies. Guests are transferred to hotels for overnight stops, and do not sleep on the train. 

2. Passenger Train 

VIA Rail is Canada’s main passenger train. It connects the country from Vancouver to Halifax with four major train routes. It offers different classes of train cars. Business class gets lounge access, food and beverage service included, priority boarding, extra luggage and wider, comfortable seating. 

3. Sleeper Train 

There are two train routes in Canada which allow you to sleep on the train. The first is between Vancouver and Toronto on The Canadian. You can break up this route with stop-overs in Jasper or Winnipeg. The second route with a sleeper train is the Ocean train from Montreal to Halifax. Both sleeper train routes are available all year long. Some sleeper trains in Canada are equipped with special panoramic viewing cars to provide you with the best view of the scenery day or night. 

Vancouver to Toronto

VIA Rail’s The Canadian connects Toronto and Vancouver. It stops in Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Jasper. This route can also be travelled in reverse. This train covers a total of 2762 miles, which takes about 86 hours. Enjoy sweeping views in the Panorama car, where giant windows extend up to the ceiling. Travelling from Toronto to Vancouver, the Canadian carries you from the forests of Ontario, through the expanse of the Prairies, and past the dramatic snow-capped Rocky Mountains. 

Montreal to Halifax 

VIA Rail’s The Ocean train connects Montreal to Halifax. The 839-mile journey takes approximately 21 hours. It has been running since 1904 and is the oldest continuously operated named passenger train in North America. You'll first travel through the French-speaking province of Quebec. Then past a backdrop of lighthouses and seascapes in the Maritime Province of Nova Scotia. As you relax onboard, you'll see tiny communities along your route, representing French Canadian, Acadian, Celtic and English heritage. 

Vancouver to the Rockies 

Along with a segment of VIA Rail’s The Canadian route, The Rocky Mountaineer runs from Vancouver through the Rockies. There are three different routes to enjoy. The Rainforest to Gold Rush connects North Vancouver and Jasper, with stops in Whistler and Quesnel. The Journey through the Clouds also connects Vancouver to Jasper, but takes the Yellowhead pass, and stops in Kamloops. The First Passage to the West connects Vancouver to Banff, with a stop in Kamloops.

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Canadian rockies and west coast.

Western Canada is known for its dramatic wild landscapes. This includes the mountains and glacier lakes of the Canadian Rockies. It also extends to the lush rainforests and Pacific Coastlines of British Columbia. It’s one of Canada’s most popular locations for a train vacation. Many remote areas are only accessible by rail. Spend an extra day or two exploring the city of Vancouver as well. 

Across Canada  

Make the journey across the country by rail. This coast-to-coast train trip connects Vancouver to Halifax, with stops in major cities, such as Winnipeg, Toronto and Montreal. If you only have one trip to Canada, this lets you see it all. Highlights include the Atlantic and Pacific coastlines, the Canadian Rockies, and the Prairies. 

Eastern Canada and Maritimes  

Along with amazing scenery, there’s lots of history and culture to explore in Eastern Canada. Visit the cities of Toronto and Montreal. Add a tour to famous places, like Niagara Falls, and the not-so-famous hidden gems, like the charming fishing towns of the Maritimes. There’s a lot to discover in eastern Canada. 

North and Arctic  

Taking the train to Churchill is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. This community sits on the edge of Hudson Bay. It takes two days and two nights of travelling north on the rails to get there. There are no roads into this subarctic region.

What Our Customers Say

This was the best vacation we have ever experienced.

We are extremely satisfied with Fresh Tracks - they are outstanding communicators, efficient, knowledgable, and answered every question we had. This was the best vacation we have ever experienced

Susan and William

We loved every minute of our trip

We enjoyed all of our trip. The scenery up in the Rockies was amazing. The train journeys were superb, we were well looked after by nice people. The highlight for us was probably t...   read more

Mike and Maureen

Aberdeen, Scotland

We thought the whole trip was wonderful

We had a GREAT trip in Canada. We thought the whole trip was wonderful, beautiful scenery, for sure. We saw lots of bears, elks, a moose or two, rams and mountain sheep. EVERYONE a...   read more

Diane and Bill

Something everyone should experience in their lifetime

We want to thank you all at Fresh Tracks for putting together such an incredible holiday for us. Your attention to detail enabled us to have a relaxing well planned trip. We were a...   read more

Pam and Paul

NSW, Australia

It is impossible to explain what an awesome time we had

The entire trip was fantastic. It is impossible to explain what an awesome time we had: the wildlife sightings in Jasper; the beauty of Lake Louise; the trail ride/cookout in Banff...   read more

Debbie and Randy

Why book with Canadian Train Vacations?

We take care of all the details

You want to relax and enjoy your trip, not get overwhelmed by the planning. Let us make all of the bookings for you, including rail tickets, hotels, excursions and activities, meals and transfers.

Independent travel with expert support

Enjoy local expertise and guidance with a personalized itinerary. Your preferences and needs are our priority. We take care of you from the moment you land until the moment you leave.

Get help when you need it

You’ll receive the inside scoop before you even leave home. And you can relax during your vacation because we’re only a phone call away if you have any questions while you’re in Canada.

What is the best train trip in Canada?

The Coast to Coast by train is the ultimate train trip across Canada. You’ll see the country’s top highlights, including Peggy’s Cove, Niagara Falls and Lake Louise.

How much does a train trip across Canada cost?

The Coast to Coast by train package starts at $12,340 for a 19-day trip, including transfers, hotels, and some meals and activities.

Is there a coast-to-coast train in Canada?

One train does not travel coast-to-coast in Canada. VIA Rail connects the Atlantic coast (Halifax) to the Pacific coast (Vancouver) with four different train routes.

About the author: Louise Weiss is Director of Legendary Hospitality with Fresh Tracks Canada. Having worked in the Canadian travel industry for more than 25 years, she enjoys sharing her local expertise with visitors. She is based in North Vancouver and has spent time...   Read more

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