british columbia train travel

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British Columbia by Train: Budget or Luxury. It’s Your Choice.

September 26, 2017 by Janice Waugh

This is a tale of two trains. In the image above, on the left, is a shot from the cheap VIA Rail experience and on the right is from my luxury Rocky Mountaineer trip. Further down you’ll see images from both trips and then a comparison of costs and features of the two train experiences.

Train travel in British Columbia is a spectacular experience. This is true whether you go on the cheap or for luxury. In this post, I look at VIA Rail vs. the Rocky Mountaineer train experiences so that you can decide how you want to spend your travel dollar.

Towering mountains, winding rivers, pristine emerald green lakes, glaciers, wildlife and even a semi-arid desert.

The thing about train travel in British Columbia is that it's about the scenery. You can't say that for all train travel. But you can in B.C. And that's why you have a decision to make.

Do you want to add luxury (and price) to your train experience or do you want to go the budget route and save money for another trip?

VIA Rail covers the northern route across the province from Prince Rupert to Jasper. It's your budget option coming in at Cdn$139.00. The Rocky Mountaineer covers the southern route from Banff to Vancouver and is your luxury choice for Cdn$1,700 (or much more as I went for the lowest price they had).

The food, the service, the people are quite different on each train but the landscape is almost comparable with the southern route having more variety.

Below you will find a comparison of the VIA Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer experiences. I share with you the experience, service, and scenery I enjoyed on each train journey across British Columbia. I hope that it will help you decide which is best for you. This is a fairly long post so to help you get around here are links to:

• The Rocky Mountaineer Experience
• The Via Rail Experience

Comparing VIA Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer

This is the third post from this trip. You may also want to read Western Canada Itinerary: Top Things to See and Do  and  Top Tips for Prince Rupert: The Best of Small Town Travel .

Beautiful landscape not far west of Banff.

Table of Contents

The Rocky Mountaineer Experience: Banff to Vancouver

The Rocky Mountaineer runs trains along multiple routes in Western Canada however it is best known for its Vancouver to Banff corridor. It is most definitely a full-service, luxury train experience. For many of my fellow passengers, it was a trip of a lifetime for which they had planned and saved. Cdn$1,700 is the base price for two days. It includes breakfast and lunch both days and your accommodation in Kamloops. The food on board is very good as are the wines and spirits which flow liberally. They also handle your luggage for you, making the whole experience very comfortable.

The emerald color of the lakes is a result of rock flour which is carried into the lake by meltwater from the glaciers.

Beautiful mountain ranges, rivers

The semi-arid country is near Kamloops, the location of our one-night stop. You can see in the distance in the photo on the right that there are many hoodoos (rock spires) in the area.

Shushwap Lake, located just east of Kamloops, is long and narrow.

The windows on the Silverleaf class of the Rocky Mountaineer are large and wrap up and overhead as you can see in the lower photo.

It's common to have people along the route waving to the train.

The team that took care of our car. The fellow in the middle was the straight man, the one on the left quite the card. It was our chef's first trip so she was a bit on the quiet side.

The food and drink on the train are very good. I'd say about the level of business class on a plane.

VIA Rail: Prince Rupert to Jasper (A Great, Cheap Alternative)

The trip on Via Rail was definitely more basic than the Rocky Mountaineer. Then again, it cost Cdn$1,561 less so one would expect that to be the case. That said I found it to be a great experience.

On past trips I've taken, the Dome car was accessible to economy passengers however on this route that is not supposed to be the case. It is held for touring class passengers. Fortunately, the train was not full. Plus, the touring class car windows are very good so the dome car was not being well used. By the end of the first day, staff was inviting economy passengers (there were only about twenty of us) to the Dome car. I love it when people do what feels right as opposed to following rules strictly.

In practical terms, I brought most of my food with me, booked my own hotel (which adds about $100 to the cost of my trip) and schlepped my own bags to the hotel and back (by taxi at night which cost about $10, and on foot in the morning). The coffee was surprisingly good on the train and there were drinks, snacks, and meals to purchase if you wanted.

Tip: Sit on the south side of the train as you leave Prince Rupert. Sit on the north side as you're approaching Jasper.

The VIA Rail train makes three or four stops along its route which is a chance to stretch your legs and chat with different passengers.

Mount Robson (on the right) is the highest peak in the Rockies. It is also so high that it has its own weather system so the peak is often lost in the crowds.

Beauty everywhere.

Glaciers in the distance.

Moose Lake outside of Jasper.

I wish I could confirm which river this is. It snakes through the mountain pass that the train takes.

That's a glacier in the mountain on the right.

Spectacular.

The Via Rail experience includes stops along the way which give you a glimpse of smaller towns. On the left is the economy class car. ON the right is a cute little shop at one of the small-town stops.

The Australian tour group I met on VIA Rail and the two person VIA team.

Look for a brochure for mile by mile information on the trip online . On board the Rocky Mountaineer you receive similar information.

You've seen a comparison of the experiences above. Now here's are the details comparing the VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer in terms of food, comfort, services, and more.

• Prince Rupert to Jasper with a one-night stop in Prince George
• Service Class: Economy Escape fare, I paid Cdn$139.65. Option: Touring Class with decent food. Price: somewhere round Cdn$600.
• Comfort: Satisfactory – the seats are fine, not great. You do get to disembark periodically, stretch your legs and get some fresh air, which is nice.
• The scenery on this route gets an A- simply because it does not have as much variety as the lower route.
• No cart comes around. You have to go to the kitchen to get food or drinks.
• Dome is car reserved for Touring Class passengers.
• You book your hotel in Prince George, make your way to it and back in the morning for departure.
• Commentary: The commentary is given by the train services manager and my guess is that he does it because he loves the area not because it’s part of his job. The train services manager on our route did a great job given that he was responsible for everything on the train. I give the commentary a B. You can download a mile-by-mile guide here.
• Food: Not great for my class. Bring your own. I was told that it was satisfactory for the Touring Class by a guide who is quite picky.
• Sociability: Great! With only about 50 people on the train, it was easy to chat with people. There were two tour groups on the train. One of them was also going to be in Banff on the 25th and they invited me to join them for dinner that night.

The Rocky Mountaineer

• Banff to Vancouver with a one-night stop in KamloopsService Class:
• Service Class: SilverLeaf fare: Cdn$1,700. plus tax. The Dome car is reserved for GoldLeaf passengers but the SilverLeaf car has panoramic windows. Option: GoldLeaf class with better food and the Dome car: Cdn$2,300.
• Comfort: Good. The seats are comfortable. The train does not make stops so that you can get off.
• The scenery on this route gets an A+.
• Breakfast, lunch and two snacks with full bar served. Good quality food and the right quantity as well. The servings are not too large given that you’re sitting all day. The wines are from British Columbia and quite good. They have a full bar with just about anything you could want.
• They book your hotel in Kamloops.
• They take your bags from you at the station in Banff and have them in your hotel room for you when you arrive in Kamloops. They collect your bag from your room and deliver it to you in Vancouver.
• Dinner is on your own in Kamloops.
• Commentary: Our car had three service people. Chase and Ben were our hosts/guides. Megan covered food services. Chase and Ben tag-teamed on the commentary. They were informative and very entertaining. They get an A+.
• Breakfast began with fresh fruit salad, croissant, and coffee followed by a hot breakfast. You could have one or all of eggs, bacon, potatoes, and mushrooms. There were different options each day.
• At 11 am, there was a full drink cart with a choice of three snacks. This was repeated in the afternoon.
• On the first day, lunch began with a spinach salad. People had two choices of chicken or pork. I had the vegetarian option which I requested when booking. I had pokhara. On the second day, I had fish.
• Meals were served personally from a cart so that you could choose what you want.
• Sociability: Despite the incredible efforts of Chase and Ben, the car just did not blend well with the exception of the second day when they played a mixing game called Manifest Bingo. Most people were part of a couple or family and with all seats facing forward mixing wasn’t natural. I chatted with the women across from me, but it didn’t go anywhere. I stood and faced behind me but still didn’t manage to get too much going on.

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Rail Routes and Rail Tours in British Columbia

If you long for the romance of the rails, you’ll find superior service and breathtaking scenery in beautiful British Columbia. On Vancouver Island, take a leisurely day-trip from Victoria to Courtney, stopping at towns and picnic sites along the way. And if it’s high adventure you crave…travel from the Pacific Coast to the Rocky Mountains!

Canada Line SkyTrain’s newest line opened in August 2009, linking Downtown Vancouver (Waterfront Station) to Richmond (Richmond-Brighouse Station) and Vancouver International Airport (YVR). The Line added 16 new stations and 19 kilometres to the SkyTrain network. Nine stations are located in Vancouver (Waterfront, Vancouver city Centre, Yaletown-Roundhouse, Olympic Village, Broadway – city Hall, King Edward, Oakridge – 41st Avenue, Langara – 49th Avenue, and Marine Drive), with four in Richmond (Bridgeport, Aberdeen, Lansdowne, and Richmond – Brighouse) and three on Sea Island serving Vancouver International Airport (Templeton, Sea Island Centre, and YVR Airport). TransLink bus services, plus SkyTrain’s Expo and Millennium Lines, SeaBus and West Coast Express connect, or will connect, with Canada Line.

Translink Trip Planning : Schedules & Maps, Fares & Passes, Rider Guide , Getting Around.

VIA Rail Canada Your window on British Columbia and Canada – coast to coast and up to Hudson Bay! VIA Rail Canada runs from Vancouver to Jasper in the BC Rockies, and back to the Pacific Coast at Prince Rupert, with an overnight stop in Prince George. VIA Rail Canada connects at several cross-border crossings with Amtrak, for continuing rail travel through North America. Toll Free: 1-888-VIA-RAIL (Canada)

Amtrak Amtrak runs between Seattle, Washington and Vancouver and connects at several cross-border crossings with VIA Rail Canada. For more information and reservations contact Amtrak Tel: 1-800-USA-RAIL Tel: (206) 382-4125 (Seattle)

SkyTrain An elevated light rail rapid-transit system whisks you along a scenic 28-kilometre track from Vancouver to Burnaby, New Westminster, and Surrey. SkyTrain links with a network of buses at many stations and with SeaBus at Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver.

West Coast Express West Coast Express provides the communities of the northeast sector of Greater Vancouver with premium commuter rail service. It operates five trains during weekday peak periods connecting Mission, Abbotsford, Maple Ridge, Pitt Meadows, Port Coquitlam, Coquitlam and Port Moody with downtown Vancouver.

Rocky Mountaineer Rocky Mountaineer Vacations® offers “The Most Spectacular Train Trip in the World”® with two-day, all daylight train excursions between Vancouver, British Columbia and Jasper, Banff or Calgary, Alberta. Westbound or eastbound departures are available from mid-April to mid-October.

Luxurious Train Trips from Vancouver

Vancouver is the perfect starting point for your Canadian train adventure. This West Coast city sits beside the Pacific Ocean against a backdrop of mountains. Give yourself time to explore the city before or after your train trip. Train rides based out of Vancouver take you through British Columbia's interior. See Canada’s beautiful valleys, rivers, lakes and mountains.

Table of contents

Popular train tours from vancouver, how to plan a train trip from vancouver, vancouver train experiences, vancouver city information, frequently asked questions.

The travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations can help you pick the best Vancouver train trip for you. We specialize in creating customized trips and have a deep local knowledge of this area.

Vancouver to Banff train tours wind their way through the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Get off the train and explore the region, visiting Banff and Lake Louise. Travel even further across the wide-open prairies on a Vancouver to Toronto train. It's the most comfortable way to experience the sheer scale of Canada.

There are several different train trips from Vancouver to choose from, and our travel experts have picked some of our most popular trips to share with you.

Speak to a Canadian Train Vacation Advisor to discuss all your options.

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.

Complete Canadian Rockies by Rail  

One of our bestselling Canadian Rockies train trips! This 8-day itinerary starts in Vancouver and ends in Calgary. Relax as the Rocky Mountaineer train takes you from Vancouver to Jasper. Then, spend five days in the Canadian Rockies. Travel the Icefields Parkway, see turquoise-coloured Lake Louise and explore Banff National Park. 

Miles covered on train : 594 

Days on train : 2 

Nights on train : N/A 

Vancouver to Toronto Train Tour  

On this across-Canada tour, you’ll experience a daylight sightseeing train and a sleeper train. First, enjoy the luxury of Rocky Mountaineer’s daylight train from Vancouver to Banff. Discover the beauty and wildlife of Banff and Jasper national parks before boarding VIA Rail’s The Canadian train. You will then sleep on the train for three nights before arriving in Toronto. 

Miles covered on train : 2,775 

Days on train : 5 

Nights on train : 3 

Canadian Cross Country Journey  

Spend four days and nights on VIA Rail’s The Canadian. See as the scenery changes from towering mountains to flat farmland to lake-dotted countryside. In Toronto and Vancouver, choose from a unique selection of small-group sightseeing tours for a full experience of these cities. 

Miles covered on train : 2,762 

Days on train : 4 

Nights on train : 4 

Download a brochure

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

Step 1: Plan your trip with a Canadian Insider 

There’s nothing cookie-cutter about our train tours from Vancouver . Combining deep local knowledge and a passion for sharing Canada with the world, our travel experts work directly with travellers to design their perfectly personalized experience of Canada.

Step 2: Have everything organized for you 

From booking hotel transfers and accommodations to arranging tours and activities — and even restaurant reservations — our local experts make your travel arrangements from the time you arrive in Canada to the time you leave. All you have to do is enjoy your train trip from Vancouver . 

Step 3: Get help when you need it 

We're here to make sure you get the inside scoop before you even leave home. And you can relax on your vacation because you know that we're a phone call away if you have any questions while you're in Canada.

#1 Travel tip: Get out on the water

The coastal city of Vancouver offers some great boat tours. Get a unique perspective on the skyline or go whale watching on an guided excursion.

These are some suggested experiences for your train journey from Vancouver . Your Canadian adventure starts here.

Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer operates three daylight train routes through the Canadian Rockies. The train has an outdoor viewing platform, large windows and glass-dome coaches. Passengers enjoy optimal photo opportunities and spectacular views. The train runs from mid-April to mid-October and only during daylight hours. Each evening, passengers step off the train and stay overnight in a hotel. From Vancouver, you can go to Whistler, Quesnel, Kamloops, Jasper, Lake Louise, or Banff. City stops depend on the route you choose. 

Explore: Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips

VIA Rail Train 

VIA Rail trains operate across Canada, connecting the East Coast and the West Coast. Four main train routes run year-round. From Vancouver, you can embark on a train trip to Prince Rupert, Jasper, Winnipeg or Toronto. You can also go to Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City, Halifax and more. VIA Rail offers daylight and overnight sleeper train experiences.

Explore: VIA Rail Vacations  

Sleeper Train 

There are three train routes in Canada that allow you to sleep on the train. Travel between Vancouver and Toronto on The Canadian and stop in Jasper or Winnipeg on the way. Choose to continue your travels on The Ocean train from Montreal to Halifax. You can also sleep onboard the Winnipeg to Churchill train. These sleeper train routes are available all year long. Some sleeper trains in Canada have panoramic viewing cars, so you have the best views day or night. 

• Vancouver is the largest city in British Columbia, Canada’s western-most province. Greater Vancouver is also Canada's third-largest metropolitan area. The city sits next to the Pacific Ocean, is close to the US border, and has the Coast Mountains to the north. Vancouver has a mild coastal climate, making it a delightful place to visit year-round. 
• You can spend hours discovering Vancouver’s neighbourhoods. Visit Robson Street for excellent shopping and dining. Stroll past Gastown's heritage buildings. Shop for local food and artisanal products at Granville Island. There are many art galleries, museums, and gardens to explore as well. Whale-watching tours and harbour cruises are popular activities during the summer. Other major attractions include Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge. 
• Stanley Park, Vancouver’s first park, is considered to be one of the world's top urban parks. Close to downtown, the park features ancient cedars, rainforest, beaches, and more. Every year, the scenic seawall path is used by millions of walkers and cyclists. 
• Both Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail run trains into and out of Vancouver.

#2 Travel tip: Explore Indigenous culture

The Vancouver area is the ancestaral home for many Indigenous cultures. Learn more on a guided tour, such as Talaysay Tours in Stanley Park, or take in the stunning art at a gallery, such as the Bill Reid Gallery.

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

What our customers say, the logistics were perfect.

The train travel was great. The quantity and quality of tours were just right. We enjoyed being busy but also having some downtime and some time to explore on our own. The places w...   read more

Isaac and Ellen

A wonderful trip

Yesterday we reached Victoria after a wonderful trip you arranged for us from Toronto to Vancouver as part of our Canadian ocean-to-ocean excursion. We learned a lot and saw a lot...   read more

Mary and Edwin

We will be back!

We arrived in our favourite city last night after a really enjoyable exploration of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Welcomed back to the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel by a smiling girl a...   read more

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ACT, Australia

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.

Where can I travel from Vancouver by train?

Train journeys from Vancouver can take you to the Canadian Rockies or across Canada. Rocky Mountaineer’s trains go from Vancouver to Lake Louise, Jasper or Banff. VIA Rail’s The Canadian train runs from Vancouver to Toronto, with stops in Jasper and Winnipeg.

Is there a train from Vancouver to Banff?

The Rocky Mountaineer runs a train from Vancouver to Banff. This Vancouver scenic train ride only operates between mid-April to mid-October. If you’re looking to travel outside of these months, please ask us and we can advise you how to get from Vancouver to Banff.

How long is the train ride from Vancouver to Banff?

Train rides from Vancouver to Banff take two full days. On this Rocky Mountaineer route, passengers stop in Kamloops for one night along the way. The train leaves early in the morning and arrives in Banff in the evening.

How far is Vancouver from Toronto?

The driving distance between Vancouver and Toronto is approximately 4,500 kilometres (2796 miles). Canadian train trips Vancouver to Toronto take four days and four nights.

How much is the train journey from Vancouver to Toronto?

There are several options for a Vancouver to Toronto train trip. One example is below.

Our Vancouver to Toronto train package includes two train rides. A train journey from Vancouver to Banff and then from Jasper to Toronto. Pricing starts from $6,090 USD per person for an 11-day trip, including transfers, hotels, and some meals and activities. Schedule a call with one of our Canadian Train Vacation Advisors to learn about trips to suit your preferences and budget.

Is there a train from Vancouver to Calgary?

There is no train between Vancouver and Calgary. Anyone travelling to Calgary would get the train to Banff, Jasper or Lake Louise, then drive the rest of the way. Approximate driving distances to Calgary: Banff - 1.5 hours, Lake Louise - 2 hours, Jasper - 5 hours.

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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Plan your visit

Museum admission, all rates & categories are ‘all inclusive’. your visit includes full access to public areas,  all exhibits & activities., a season pass pays for itself after 2 visits., enjoy unlimited rides on all of our operating trains: bc-21 budd rail diesel car, ride-on mini-rail and railway maintenance-of-way track speeders. (not valid at special events.).

Please note that the Railway of Museum of BC Season Pass is not a WCRA Membership purchase.

Membership includes a mailed newsletter magazine, email newsletter and voting rights. 

For more information about becoming a member, and options to include a Museum Season pass with your membership, check out our membership page.

Railway Museum of British Columbia

Now open for the regular season, we’re open every saturday and long weekend sundays until thanksgiving, and every thursday during july & august. , day out with thomas 2024 may 25-26 june 1-2, north pole express 2024 nov 23-24 dec 2-3, 9-10, 16-17, contact us: p: 604-898-9336 e: [email protected], see what’s on for our full calendar.  .

The Railway Museum of British Columbia is a proud participant of the Access2 Program.

The access2 program is for individuals with a permanent disability who require the assistance of a support person. access2 support persons are entitled to free admission., before you arrive.

COVID 19 UPDATE April 20, 2024: The health and safety of our staff and our guests is the highest priority, and we will be operating with all appropriate Covid-19 health protocols in place. 

Wearing masks in public indoor settings is no longer required by public health. Wearing a mask is a personal choice. 

Getting here

From the vancouver area – 1 hour/75 km.

The Railway Museum of BC is in Squamish, a short distance off the Sea-to-Sky Highway #99. See map above. Maximum posted Speed Limit along the way is 80 km/h. Current traffic conditions when driving are available on AM Radio 730 or Mountain FM Radio 107.1

Travelling by car, from the Greater Vancouver Area, access to the Highway #99 is from either the Lions Gate Bridge downtown near Stanley Park, or the Iron Workers Memorial Bridge (2 nd narrows) via Hastings Street or Hwy #1.

From outlying areas, add extra travel time:

From YVR Airport, Richmond, Surrey, Tri-cities (Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody) we are about 90 minutes/80–100km away.

From white rock, langley – 1hr 45 mins/115 km; from abbotsford, mission – 2 hrs/135km..

Upon reaching Squamish, DRIVE PAST the main intersection with Petro-Canada, 7-Eleven & McDonalds, and TURN LEFT at either of the NEXT TWO exits, Industrial Way OR Commercial Way. TURN RIGHT on Queens Way and follow that a short distance until it merges with Government Road at the STOP SIGN. Proceed across the Railway Crossing (after looking both ways!). The ENTRANCE to the MUSEUM will be on your RIGHT. 

From Whistler – 45 mins/56 km; Pemberton – 75 mins/90 km; Lillooet – 2 hrs 40 mins/190 km

Take Hwy #99 SOUTH and exit at Centennial Way, at the North end of Squamish. TURN LEFT on Centennial Way, keeping LEFT to merge into Government Road. TURN RIGHT at the STOP SIGN and cross the Railway Crossing (after looking both ways!). The  ENTRANCE to the MUSEUM will be on your RIGHT. 

WHEN YOU’RE AT THE MUSEUM

How long a visit should i plan for.

4–5 hours is recommended to completely explore the Museum and exhibits without hurrying. This provides enough time to ride the BC-21 Budd Rail Diesel Car, the Track Speeder and Mini-Rail at least once or twice, explore the Roundhouse, Car Shop, Brightbill House, browse the Gift Store and enjoy a picnic lunch.

2–3 hours will give you plenty of time to ride everything once and see most of the exhibits.

What to wear and bring

Be prepared for changes in weather! Bring options to add or remove protective layers of clothing for sun, rain and temperature swings. We recommend footwear with complete foot and ankle protection. A sun hat, sunscreen and insect repellent are also recommended. We have food and beverage service on site, featuring the aptly named ‘Off The Rails’ food truck, and an Ice Cream Stand, but the Museum grounds are large, so it’s OK to bring your own food, snacks and drinks.

Parking onsite at the Museum grounds is FREE on regular operating days. Special events such as Day out With Thomas and North Pole Express may have a fee.

An Automated Teller Machine is available on site in the Roundhouse.

What are our guests saying? 

Actual guest reviews from spring & summer 2023:, “what a hidden gem i’d never have guessed such a large facility is secretly lurking off a quiet road in squamish. beautiful train engines, a large round house built for the trains, and a little historic village. neat place well worth a visit with kind and knowledgeable staff and volunteers. bonus, mini train rides” – cm, actual guest reviews from summer 2022:, actual guest reviews from summer 2021:.

“I would like to suggest this as a must see museum for when visiting Vancouver area if you are interested in trains. Volunteers were friendly and knowledgeable. Our family thought the whole experience was wonderful. We were grandparents accompanied with a 7 and 11 year old. We all loved the train rides plus exploring the trains on exhibit. The idea of handing out a map with questions on the back about the exhibits was very well done and the kids wanted to make sure they found the answers. I noticed adults had the paper in hand looking for the answers too. The prize given out for completion of the questions was in my opinion over the top. This just made for a wonderful day out, Thank you to all who make the museum such a worthwhile experience.”

“Really kid friendly. The whole staff of volunteers obviously love what they do, the enthusiasm exceeded our expectations more than enough to see for at half day at least. Some of the exhibits are worth seeing more than once, can’t say enough about a place the kids dragged me too! Didn’t know I was even interested in trains!”

“Absolutely a must visit. We will be returning as soon as possible.”

“We loved visiting this place last weekend. The staff went out of their way to make sure everyone had a wonderful time. All the proper precautions were in place in terms of safety and sanitation. I highly recommend it, especially the 3 train rides and also the exhibits inside the warehouse.”

“Had an amazing time with my family, the staff members were exceptionally hospitable, the train rides are a must go.”

“Stopped by here on July 1st while on the way to Whistler. We had visited this place several years ago and decided to go because my youngest just turned 2 and he loves trains. He was not around the last time we visited. There are a lot of new additions since the last time. A lot of things to do and see that we fully enjoyed almost 5 hours there with the 3 boys. The best thing about the place are definitely the volunteers. All of them are so very welcoming and dedicated to share the history and showcase everything about the place. Their enthusiasm is positively contagious. We’ve upgraded to a season pass and we’ll definitely be back for more. They are only open every Saturday till September. About an hour away from the city is a great place to spend a curious morning or afternoon like we did.”

Planning a visit from Europe? 

Check us out in the momondo travel guide.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION – PLEASE READ BEFORE YOUR VISIT:

WAIVER AND RELEASE FROM LIABILITY

By entering the property of The Railway Museum of British Columbia (hereafter referred to as “RMBC”), I understand and agree as follows:

RMBC is an active, working railway yard, engaging in traditional and potentially dangerous railway activities, including movement of equipment, and operation          of a Turntable over an open pit. In addition, there are special rides that are also dangerous if safety precautions are not followed.

Safety Rules and precautions are provided and MUST be adhered to. Within the parameters of a working railyard, I understand that RMBC has erected safety provisions where possible, however there are aspects that are inherently dangerous even with gates and safety precautions in place.

There are risks associated with entrance and participation in activities at RMBC, such as physical injury, pain, suffering, temporary or permanent disability, death or economic loss. These injuries may arise from my own or other’s actions, inactions or negligence. Nonetheless I assume all risks of my entrance to the RMBC and participation in activities, whether known or unknown to me.

In consideration for permission to enter and participate at RMBC, I release from liability and waive my right to sue RMBC, their employees, officers, volunteers and agents (collectively “Museum”) from any and all claims, including claims of the Museum’s negligence, resulting in any physical injury, illness (including death) or economic loss I may suffer, or which may result from my participation on RMBC Property, travel to and from the RMBC, or any events incidental to my participation on RMBC property.

PARENTS AND/OR GUARDIANS

I am the parent or legal guardian of an Entrant. I understand the legal consequences of my responsibility for the Entrant, including (a) releasing the RMBC Museum from all liability on my and the Entrant’s behalf; (b) waiving my and the Entrant’s right to sue the Museum; (c) and assuming all risks of the Entrants participation at RMBC, including travel to and from RMBC. I allow the Entrant to participate in this activity. I understand that I am responsible for the obligations and acts of the Entrant as described in this document.

I agree to be bound by the terms of this document.

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10 Scenic Train Trips Across Canada

• Train trips have become popular among travelers in Canada as a more sustainable and enjoyable way to explore the country's natural wonders.
• From coast to coast, Canada offers scenic train journeys that allow passengers to experience breathtaking landscapes, French culture, and stunning architecture.
• Whether it's admiring polar bears in Churchill, witnessing fall foliage in Nova Scotia, or cycling through the Niagara region, there are many unique train trips in Canada for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.

The world is slowly adopting the green economy as a way of saving the planet from destruction. Even travelers haven’t been left behind. Most of them have recognized that airplanes and vehicles are not sustainable ways of traveling and are exploring other options. For this reason, train trips have become more common and appealing.

Canada is a large country with many beautiful natural wonders and top destinations to visit . And seeing them through a window is the best way to experience the country. Besides phenomenal views, train passengers enjoy comfortable, stress-free, and relaxing trips. They only need to occupy their seat and enjoy the ride. Here are 10 scenic train trips across Canada.

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Canada coast to coast by train, see niagara falls, lake louise, and peggy's cove.

Coast-to-coast by train is one of the best train trips in Canada. It is a chance to see some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world, including Niagara Falls, Lake Louise, and Peggy’s Cove. Travelers are offered time on VIA Rail and travel in a sleeper company. The journey starts in Halifax and ends in Vancouver. Taking this ride lets one enjoy the French culture in Canada, stunning architecture, and scenic landscapes.

• Trip distance from Halifax to Vancouver: 4,466 kilometers
• Trip length: 4 days and 4 nights
• Cost : Around $11,380

Vancouver To Toronto On The Canadian

Traveling through forests, mountain peaks, and waterfalls.

The Canadian is a flagship train that offers three classes: economy, sleeper plus, and prestige. Unlike planes, it has large reclining seats with plenty of legroom. The trip includes presenters, musicians, and wine-tasting sessions. The train leaves Vancouver for Toronto, and visitors can see forests, mountain peaks, waterfalls, valleys, and wildlife along the way. It passes through Jasper National Park, stops for some time, and continues to Toronto.

• Trip distance from Vancouver to Toronto: 4,466 kilometers
• Trip length: Almost 4 days
• Cost: Varies between routes and towns, but around CAD 2,500 per person during winter (Approximately $1,850 USD)

Lord Of The Wilderness Bear Viewing In The Canadian

See grizzlies in a wilderness lodge and polar bears up north.

Here is something for wildlife lovers. The train drives passengers across Canada, from Vancouver to Winnipeg. The adventure begins on the West Coast, where passengers go to a wilderness lodge to see grizzly bears. Then, they board The Canadian train in Vancouver, which takes them across the Canadian Rockies before arriving in Winnipeg. After the journey ends, passengers are recommended to fly to Northern Manitoba, the Polar Bear Capital of the world, to explore the arctic tundra and look for polar bears before returning to Winnipeg.

• Trip distance from Vancouver to Winnipeg: Approximately 1,866 kilometers
• Trip length: 3 days and 2 nights
• Cost: $13,430

Winnipeg To Churchill VIA Rail

Admire lush prairie land, huge boreal forests, & hudson bay's polar bears.

Regardless of the time of the year someone is traveling, they are guaranteed things to wow about every step of this trip. From Winnipeg, passengers can admire the lush land at Rivière Rouge and Rivière Assiniboine confluence. As they travel, they can see the waters of Lake near The Pas, the huge boreal forest encompassing the Thompson, and finally, the rocky shores of Hudson Bay in Churchill, where they can see polar bears and belugas in their habitat. For those who’ve never seen the Prairies, this VIA Rail trip will bring them up close.

• Trip distance from Winnipeg to Churchill: 1,710 kilometers
• Trip length : 44 hours 55 minutes
• Cost: From $199

Montreal To Halifax On The Ocean

See whales in the gulf, clear miramichi river, and sugarloaf mountain.

The Ocean journey runs on the Gulf of St Lawrence and passes through New Brunswick before the train heads to Nova Scotia. This is the oldest route in North America and has been operating since 1904. Passengers are rewarded with phenomenal views of the Gulf of Lawrence, where they can spot whales. From there, they can see clear waters as the train crosses the Miramichi River, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Acadian communities. Fall is the perfect time for this trip as travelers see the leaves turn into shades of yellow, red, and gold.

• Trip distance from Montreal to Halifax: 1,346 kilometers
• Trip length: 21+ hours
• Cost: $210 on Economy

Jasper To Prince George On The Rupert Rocket

Tour glassy lakes and charming agricultural towns in central british columbia.

This trip across central British Columbia isn’t popular, especially among the international community. But, it is a very scenic journey to consider. The Rupert Rocket goes over several days to allow travelers to check out daylight vistas. But, passengers organize their accommodation. Along the way, they see glassy lakes and charming and historic towns filled with agricultural produce and wildlife. Some drives include meals and drinks. Others don’t. But regardless of the ride, guests are assured of phenomenal views.

• Trip distance from Jasper to Prince: 1,160 kilometers
• Trip length : 2 days
• Cost: Around $260

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White pass & yukon route railway, see trestles, gorges, and glaciers on a historic railway climbing 3,000 feet with views of skagway harbor.

The White Pass and Yukon Route is a great ride for those who want to learn about the history of Alaska. It leaves Skagway and offers scenic views while allowing ample time to enjoy the area’s other charms. The train goes through Shyster and climbs almost 3,000 feet above sea level. Passengers pass through an inspiration point that looks down on the Skagway Harbor. Dead Horse Gulch with bleached bones of perished animals can be seen. Before reaching the White Pass Summit, travelers have a chance to see the headwaters of the Yukon River.

• Trip distance from Skagway to Whitehorse is: 172 kilometers
• Trip length: 2-2.75 hours
• Cost: $140 for adults, $70 for children

Banff To Calgary On Royal Canadian Experience

Fine dining and canadian rockies views through the alberta prairies.

Fine dining and luxurious accommodations are why people book this trip. On top of that, passengers are rewarded with exceptional views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. The Royal Canadian Experience is a charming and delightful trip, starting in Calgary and traversing through the Alberta Prairies. There is an off-train experience that allows travelers to visit historical attractions such as Head Smashed in Buffalo Jump. They can also see Banff and Lake Louise’s cinematic views along the way.

• Trip distance from Banff to Calgary : Around 127 kilometers
• Trip length : 4 nights, 5 days
• Cost: From $14,000 CAD per person ( Approximately $10,360 USD)

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Quebec city to la malbaie on the train de charlevoix, stop at beaches, cliffs, and charming villages.

The Train de Charlevoix travels from the old Quebec City to La Malbaie while making several stops. It is a fun journey with opportunities to hike, cycle, and admire picturesque villages. Passengers can enjoy the beach at Saint-Irenee and later get history lessons at Saint-Joseph-de-la-Rive, or soak up the beauty of the charming towns and cliffs from the comfort of the train. There are different packages, allowing travelers to choose one they like.

• Trip distance from Quebec City to La Malbaie: 125 kilometers
• Trip length: Under 4 miles
• Cost: From $248

Toronto To Niagara Falls On The Greenbelt Express

Perfect for cyclists to stop at waterfalls and wineries.

Nature lovers and cyclists should take this trip on the Greenbelt Express . It is a seasonal train operating around the Niagara region, designed for those who want to experience nature on a two-wheeler. The train is designed with special bike cars that come with in-built racks. From waterfalls to wineries, there are many sights to visit, and the good thing is that the train makes several stops throughout the entire route, allowing passengers to enjoy many cycling trails.

• Trip distance from Toronto to Niagara Falls: 50 kilometers
• Cost: Around $399 for two cyclists

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6 Train Rides You Can Jump On To Explore BC This Summer

Photo: @rockymountaineer / Instagram

All aboard! A case of wanderlust and no place to go? Forget the planes and automobiles and opt for train travel instead.

These train rides in BC offer a front row seat to all corners of our beautiful province, so book your tickets now.

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Train Rides in BC

Kettle valley steam railway, summerland.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Kettle Valley Steam Railway (@kettlevalleyrail)

Experience a preserved section of the historic Kettle Valley Railway near Summerland. It has 16 kilometres of breathtaking vistas to explore along the way, from lush orchards and vineyards to unsurpassed views of Okanagan Lake from the Trout Creek Trestle Bridge 238 feet above the canyon floor.

The restored 1912 steam locomotive will bring the era back to life as you seemingly travel through time in a vintage passenger coach or open air car.

Kamloops Heritage Railway, Kamloops

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by 𝐊𝐀𝐌𝐋𝐎𝐎𝐏𝐒 𝐇𝐄𝐑𝐈𝐓𝐀𝐆𝐄 𝐑𝐀𝐈𝐋𝐖𝐀𝐘 (@kamloopsheritagerailway)

To soak up more history, check out the Kamloops Heritage Railway. The historic railway operates throughout the year running trains within Kamloops.

The train is pulled by restored steam locomotive Canadian National Railway 2141, which is known as the “Spirit of Kamloops.”

Fraser Valley Heritage Railway, Surrey

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Gabe A 📸 🇨🇦 (@urban_96_yvr)

Find this heritage railway in the Cloverdale area of Surrey. They offer several different train rides depending on the time of year.

They even host special train rides during Halloween and Christmas. But their signature offering allows guests to ride into the past as they travel through the farmlands to Sullivan Station and back.

Rocky Mountaineer Railtours, Vancouver

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by OTMINDIA (@otmindia)

For a more luxurious travel experience, look no further than Rocky Mountaineer. The rail tour company based in Vancouver operates scenic trains on four rail routes in BC, as well as Alberta, Colorado and Utah.

Stretch your legs and your viewing angles in their bi-level glass-dome coaches that offer a glimpse into BC’s incredible scenery.

Kimberley’s Underground Mining Railway, Kimberley

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Talaria Footwear & Adornment (@talariafootwear)

The Kimberley mining railway has been in existence, in one form or another, for about 38 years and has since developed into a unique tourist attraction.

They offer a mining tour where you can ride the rails through the beautiful Mark Creek valley as you listen to the history of Kimberley and the Sullivan Mine.

VIA Rail, Vancouver

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Salma Bonilla (@salmabois)

Take in all of BC’s natural beauty with a trek courtesy of VIA Rail. The rail company offers plenty of bucket list worthy trips.

Depart Vancouver on an adventure through the province and onto the pristine Banff and Lake Louise in Alberta.

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News & Reviews News Wire British Columbia heritage rail operation sidelined for safety review

British Columbia heritage rail operation sidelined for safety review

Fort Steele Heritage Town calls for outside review of 1923 2-6-2, other aspects of rail operation

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FORT STEELE, British Columbia — A steam locomotive that has been a longtime attraction in southwestern British Columbia has been sidelined for a safety review, raising doubts about its future operation.

Concerns over the age and increasing maintenance costs of 2-6-2 No. 1077, built in 1923 by Montreal Locomotive Works for Vancouver Island logging operations, have led Fort Steele Heritage Town, near Cranbrook, B.C., to halt train operations pending an outside review.

“The Society has made a difficult but informed decision to park the train in 2024 while it conducts a full independent review of the locomotive and rail operations,” the Heritage Town said in a statement on its Facebook page . “Repairs will be costly – and we realize that this train has become a cornerstone of Fort Steele Heritage Town.” Along with a review of locomotive and rolling stock, that review will include an assessment of the park’s right-of-way, its operating practices and personnel’s training and fitness, and recommended requirements to resume operation.

The website MyEastKootenayNow.com reports Kevin Weaver, president of the Friends of Fort Steele Society, indicated the review was set in motion when the park’s railway manager voiced concern that “the 1077 was nearing the end of its working life and it will be increasingly difficult and costly to maintain.” Efforts to find a replacement locomotive turned up one candidate elsewhere in British Columbia, but that engine turned out to be too large for the Fort Steele line’s curves and, at about $1 million, was beyond the organization’s budget.

Weaver told the news site the park’s insurance agent pointed out a clause in the facility’s policy “that basically says if there’s a chance of a serious incident occurring and we don’t do everything reasonably possible to address the risk, our policy won’t cover us, and the board members will be personally liable.” That led to the decision to park the train, he said.

The Society’s Facebook message says the organization is “doing everything we can to operate the train this season, even if it means a late start.” But Global News reports local residents have voiced unhappiness about the decision, and a local legislator has also expressed concern.

Tom Shypitka, member of British Columbia’s Legislative Assembly for the area including Fort Steele, has expressed concern about the decision, saying in a Facebook post that the it is an attraction that “goes far beyond the economic driver it provides for our region. It is also a stable of the Kootenay East diet that involves the multi-generational lifestyle and legacy for childen and families everywhere in the Kootenays.” Shypitka, who participated in the locomotive’s 100th birthday celebration in 2023, wrote, “The integrity and full operation needs to be maintained. I will continue discussion with government and stakeholders to ensure we have as little disruption as possible.”

More information about Fort Steele Heritage Town is available at its website .

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