Overview of All Rocky Mountaineer Train Routes
Choosing the right Rocky Mountaineer train route is essential to creating an unforgettable journey through Western Canada. In this article, you will find detailed itineraries, Rocky Mountaineer route maps, and expert travel tips to help you plan the perfect trip. Whether you are traveling from Canada, the U.S., Australia, or beyond, this guide is designed for you.
Rocky Mountaineer offers three core Canadian routes:
First Passage to the West (Vancouver to Banff or Lake Louise)
Journey Through the Clouds (Vancouver to Jasper)
Rainforest to Gold Rush (Vancouver to Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel)
All routes operate exclusively during daylight hours and include an overnight hotel stay in either Kamloops or Quesnel.
Table of Contents
Route 1: First Passage to the West
Vancouver to Banff
(Vancouver → Kamloops → Banff or Lake Louise)
Duration: 2 days
Available: April – October
The most popular and historic Rocky Mountaineer route, First Passage to the West retraces the original Canadian Pacific Railway line, where national history and natural beauty intertwine.
First Passage to the West: Locations
The First Passage to the West connects some of Western Canada’s most celebrated destinations:
Vancouver – A vibrant coastal city known for its stunning harbor, multicultural dining, and gateway to the Pacific.
Kamloops – Nestled in British Columbia’s interior, where the landscapes shift from lush forest to desert-like terrain.
Banff – A picturesque alpine town in Banff National Park, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes.
Lake Louise (optional end point) – Famous for its emerald waters, mountain backdrop, and iconic Fairmont Chateau.
First Passage to the West: Route Highlights
- Fraser Valley: Begin your journey in lush green farmland framed by the Coast Mountains.
- Hell’s Gate in Fraser Canyon: Witness a breathtaking natural gorge where the Fraser River narrows to just 33 meters wide.
- Kamloops: Overnight in this sun-drenched town at the confluence of the North and South Thompson Rivers.
- South Thompson River ranchlands: Watch as dry plateaus give way to towering peaks.
- Rogers Pass & the Spiral Tunnels: Marvel at the engineering feats and glacier-clad peaks of Glacier National Park.
- Banff National Park: End your journey surrounded by alpine lakes, wildlife, and jagged mountain ranges.
Route 2: Journey Through the Clouds
Vancouver to Jasper
(Vancouver → Kamloops → Jasper)
Duration: 2 days
Available: April – October
The Journey Through the clouds route is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in untouched wilderness and remote mountain vistas, with fewer crowds than the Banff route.
Journey Through the Clouds: Locations
The Journey Through the Clouds connects vibrant cities and breathtaking mountain scenery as it travels between Vancouver and Jasper:
- Vancouver – A lively coastal city framed by mountains and ocean, offering world-class dining, culture, and attractions.
- Kamloops – Located in British Columbia’s scenic interior, where river valleys meet rolling hills and semi-arid landscapes.
- Jasper – A charming alpine town in the heart of Jasper National Park, surrounded by pristine wilderness, towering peaks, and crystal-clear lakes.
Journey Through the Clouds: Route Highlights
- Fraser Valley & Canyon: Similar to Route 1, with views of Fraser River and Hell’s Gate.
- Kamloops: Enjoy an overnight stay in this historic ranching town.
- North Thompson River Valley: Rolling hills give way to the striking Monashee and Cariboo Mountains.
- Pyramid Falls: A cascading waterfall visible only by train.
- Albreda Icefields: Spot glacial tongues clinging to rugged peaks.
- Mount Robson: At 3,954 m, it’s the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies—often shrouded in mist and awe-inspiring to behold.
Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and travellers continuing into Jasper National Park and the Icefields Parkway.
Route 3: Rainforest to Gold Rush
Vancouver to Jasper via Whistler
(Vancouver → Whistler → Quesnel → Jasper)
Duration: 3 days
Available: Select dates, May – September
The Rainforest to Goldrush route offers a more extensive exploration of British Columbia, including overnight stays in Whistler and Quesnel. Perfect for those looking for a more relaxed pace, and access to rarely seen areas.
Rainforest to Gold Rush: Locations
The Rainforest to Gold Rush takes you on a captivating journey from lush coastal landscapes to the rugged beauty of the Canadian Rockies:
- Vancouver – A dynamic port city on Canada’s west coast, surrounded by ocean and mountains, and brimming with culture, dining, and outdoor activities.
- Whistler – A world-famous mountain resort known for its alpine scenery, vibrant village atmosphere, and year-round adventure opportunities.
- Quesnel – A historic gold rush town in British Columbia’s interior, offering a glimpse into Canada’s pioneering past and charming small-town character.
- Jasper – Nestled within Jasper National Park, this alpine haven is surrounded by glaciers, turquoise lakes, and dramatic mountain peaks.
Rainforest to Gold Rush: Route Highlights
- Whistler: Famous for skiing and mountain biking, this alpine village offers a stylish start to your adventure.
- Pemberton & Lillooet: Travel through deeply forested canyons and ancient volcanic plateaus.
- Quesnel: Stay overnight in a town rich with Gold Rush heritage.
- Cariboo Mountains: Remote landscapes with rivers, canyons, and forests untouched by mass tourism.
- Jasper National Park: Conclude your journey surrounded by rugged peaks and turquoise lakes.
Best for: Train enthusiasts who want an extra day aboard the Rocky Mountaineer while also experiencing a different side of British Columbia.
Departure Times
Departure Times
Route | Day 1 Departure | Day 2/3 Arrival |
Vancouver → Banff | 8:00 am | ~9:30 pm on Day 2 |
Vancouver → Lake Louise | 8:00 am | ~8:30 pm on Day 2 |
Vancouver → Jasper | 8:00 am | ~9:00 pm on Day 2 |
Vancouver → Jasper (via Whistler & Quesnel) | 8:00 am (Day 1) | ~10:00 pm (Day 3) |
Note: All routes include an overnight stay at midpoint cities (Kamloops or Quesnel) arranged by Rocky Mountaineer.
Explore Deeper into the Rockies
Explore more sites in the Rockies
Enhance your Rocky Mountaineer experience with our carefully selected tour extensions that let you see more of Western Canada at a relaxed pace. These add-on options are designed to fit seamlessly with your train schedule, so you can spend more time exploring the destinations you’ve traveled so far to see.
Choose from simple city stays in places like Vancouver, Banff, Jasper, or Lake Louise, or add a short sightseeing trip to take in the area’s highlights before or after your train journey.
We focus on making these extensions convenient, coordinated, and enjoyable — giving you extra time to enjoy the scenery, culture, and charm of the Canadian Rockies.
- Moraine Lake & Lake Louise
- Johnston Canyon, Icefields Parkway, Columbia Icefield
- Yoho & Jasper National Parks
This pairing creates a seamless, full-circle experience of the Canadian Rockies.
FAQs – Tour Extensions
1. Can I add a tour extension after booking my Rocky Mountaineer trip?
Yes. While we recommend arranging it in advance for the best availability, we can often add an extension after your train booking if space allows.
2. Will the tour extensions fit with my train schedule?
Yes. We ensure your extension is timed to match your train departure or arrival so your travel flows smoothly.
3. What’s included in a tour extension?
Details vary by package, but most extensions include accommodations and planned activities or tours. We’ll confirm exactly what’s included when you book.
Which Rocky Mountaineer Route Is Right for You?
Which route to choose?
Your Travel Goal | Recommended Route |
Iconic sights (Banff, Lake Louise) | First Passage to the West |
Remote nature & glaciers | Journey Through the Clouds |
Hidden gems, fewer crowds | Rainforest to Gold Rush |
Need help choosing? Our advisors are here to customize your perfect Rockies itinerary.