Vancouver to Banff train is one of the best ways to explore the stunning Canadian Rockies. It’s an unforgettable way to see some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes and enjoy luxury service on board the Rocky Mountaineer, Canada’s first trans-continental train.
This journey begins in Vancouver and ends in Banff, where it’s easy to spend a day exploring the city before boarding the Rocky Mountaineer for a relaxing two-day trip around the area. It also includes a night in Banff, giving you time to soak this website up the views and do some hiking before heading home.
The train route covers over a thousand miles of scenic terrain, with stops along the way at several of the most impressive destinations in Western Canada. You’ll see towering mountains and awe-inspiring glacier-fed lakes on your way to Banff, and you’ll also visit Kamloops, which is home to some of the country’s most historic railway stations.
Traveling by train isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for a unique and memorable way to see the Canadian Rockies, it’s a must-do. The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train service that travels across the iconic 1885 Canadian Pacific rail line, which is the oldest in North America.
It takes about 19 hours to get from Vancouver to Banff, so you’ll need to plan your trip well in advance. You can choose to book a round-trip ticket, or you can buy a package that includes a few days in each location.
There are a few options for getting from Vancouver to Banff by train, including the Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail. The latter is a cheaper option and doesn’t go all the way to Banff, but it still offers breathtaking scenery along the way.
Whether you choose the Rocky Mountaineer or VIA Rail, the train ride will be an adventure in itself. You’ll be able to relax and admire the beauty of the landscape as you enjoy gourmet meals, deluxe cabins, and a seat on a two-level, glass-domed coach with full-length windows.
You’ll have plenty of time to take in the scenery during daylight hours, as your train will stop in several cities for lunch and dinner. On your way to Banff, you’ll pass through picturesque towns like Hope, Kamloops, and Revelstoke.
When you get to Kamloops, your train will stop at a hotel, which is included in the price of your trip. Your hosts will explain the sights you’re seeing and answer any questions you may have.
Then, you’ll have another chance to check out the scenery as your train makes its way further west to Vancouver. This part of the trip is the most dramatic, as it passes through Hell’s Gate in the Fraser Canyon and climbs steep cliffs along the Thompson River.
It’s also worth noting that the train will take you through some of the most spectacular tunnels in Canada, including the Spiral Tunnel. The tunnels allow the train to make a steep grade change quickly, and they’re also great for viewing waterfalls.
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