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 → 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.
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 → 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.
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 → 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.
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
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
While the train journey showcases Western Canada’s grandeur, it doesn’t venture deep into the national parks. To enhance your experience, we recommend combining your rail trip with a guided coach tour to explore:
- 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.
Which Rocky Mountaineer Route Is Right for You?
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.