Everyone's bucket list should absolutely include the Canadian Rocky Mountains, period. Boasting striking mountain peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls that will leave you in awe, this area provides unique experiences throughout the year. With a blend of adventure, serenity, and breathtaking natural scenery, the Canadian Rockies are an essential destination for all travelers that keeps us coming back for more!
After spending a week exploring the majesty of Jasper and Banff National Parks, we continued our quest on the world renowned Rocky Mountaineer train, choosing their First Passage to the West route. A two day excursion starting from downtown Banff, traveling west during the day to a hotel in Kamloops for the night, then on to Vancouver the next day. (There are no sleeper cars on the train, the Rocky Mountaineer only travels during the daytime so you don’t miss any sights!)
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How we got there
Whether you only have time for a rail journey or you want to see more of Canada's National Parks, the most convenient airports for this particular itinerary involve flying into Calgary and out of Vancouver, or vice versa. We opted to rent a car after arriving in Calgary from the USA to explore more of the Canadian Rockies and then flew home from Vancouver after our train ride.
For more information about our memorable time in Banff and Jasper, tap the following links to my articles- Summer Excursion to Banff and Jasper National Park and learn about those phenomenal locations. 💫
It's best to start your trip planning by selecting your train seats because availability can be limited during the peak season. Once you have your train tickets squared away, then you can find appropriate flights even if you need to add a day on either side of your trip to make the most of your time. All of which can be arranged through the Rocky Mountaineer, if you prefer.
The Rocky Mountaineer website portal is an excellent resource, explaining each facet of what to expect during your trip. You can choose your own hotels and transfers or they will handle it all for you. The seamless process is reflective of the amazing service provided throughout, which elevates the whole experience. If that weren't enough, the nonstop views from the comfort of your seat will certainly blow you away.
Packages include:
Transfers (Pick up and drop off from accommodations)
Luggage handling
Hotel stay
Meals/drinks aboard train
You can check out all of their packages here: RockyMountaineer.com
All Aboard the Rocky Mountaineer Train
A few days before the journey, you're asked to confirm all the details of your trip either online, at your hotel, or one of the local Rocky Mountaineer office locations.
At 7:30 am on the day of departure, a motor coach picked us up in front of our hotel, Fox Hotel & Suites in Banff, where we were checked in by staff and they labeled our luggage then whisked it away so it would be waiting for us when we arrived in Kamloops that evening.
After a short ride to the Banff Train Station, everyone was ushered to their numbered train car, complete with red carpet greetings and then seated to begin the expedition. As we slowly ventured out of downtown, breakfast service began and introductions were given by our clever, kind, and knowledgable hosts.
Silver or GoldLeaf Service
When booking your package, there are options for Silver or GoldLeaf Service and since we are not gourmet "foodies" per se, we opted for the less expensive SilverLeaf which was perfect for us. We were very comfortable with plenty of room and enjoyed all the yummy selections.
The GoldLeaf Service includes bi-level train cars with a bigger outdoor viewing platform, larger seats, higher-end hotel options, and fancier food service. Truly, the SilverLeaf was top notch too and we very much relished all of the meals, snacks, and drinks provided. You literally never have a chance to be hungry and there are a variety of drinks/cocktails to choose from throughout each day.
Cell Service
During the journey, due to the route through rural countryside, cell service and Wi-Fi is pretty much nonexistent so just prepare to unplug and be present, simply savoring the ride. Your guides provide commentary throughout the trip, explaining historical events and telling valuable stories that complement everything you're seeing outside the panoramic windows. That email/text/call can wait!
Banff to Kamloops
Without giving away too much, here are some highlights of what we saw on our first day:
Eerily and sadly, the Jasper National Park fire was still smoldering on this day (three hours away) and as we headed in the direction of Lake Louise, dark dystopian skies kept us company outside the glass dome windows making visibility minimal. But thankfully the smoke began to clear up as we turned west.
Through spiral tunnels and over many stunning rivers we crossed the Continental Divide, which was the highest elevation point on trip at 5,332 feet.
Passing tiny towns and hearing about the shear ingenuity in constructing this railroad over 150 years ago simply boggles the mind, what an absolute marvel created on such unforgiving terrain. To be maintained all this time and still in use today, shows such a sign of reverence for the revolutionary changes railways produced for the world.
Accommodations
Despite a bit of an unavoidable delay because of an issue with another train in front of us, we were well fed and informed. Once arriving in Kamloops for the night, we were given our hotel room keys before getting off the train. Due to the later hour, there wasn't much time to explore the town, so everyone boarded motor coaches to their specific hotels without the hassle of checking in and our luggage was already waiting for us in the room!
We stayed at Coast Kamloops Hotel and had a libation in their restaurant before a good night’s rest. The next morning, all we had to do was pack and leave the bags in the room because they would be moved for us to the next stop in Vancouver.
Day 2 After Kamloops
The second part of our tour was a stark contrast to the first, both equally spectacular in their own unique ways. Leaving Kamloops, you find yourself in an arid desert. We saw many rams, sheep, deer, eagles, and osprey along the way.
The valleys, mountains, and rushing rivers are a feast for your eyes and relatively still untouched, which feels so rare and satisfyingly peaceful to behold these days.
One of my favorite moments was nearing the point where the Fraser and Nicola Rivers meet and their different colored waters collide.
Vancouver
Around 5 pm, we rolled in to Vancouver and bid adieu to our fabulous hosts, Pete, Matt, and Joy. They took great care of us, making everyone feel welcome, safe, and entertained even though they had been through an emotional/exhausting time having ties to the wildfires that had just taken place in Jasper. Climbing onto yet another cozy motor coach, we rode through Vancouver to our spend our last night at the Pinnacle Harbourfront before flying home the next day. We enjoyed strolling along the harbour, watching seals play, and sampling local fare.
No where else can you see the amazing wonders this bucket list experience provides! Still can’t get over the coordinated efficiency provided by ALL Rocky Mountaineer staff! From checking in, motor coach transfers, to the magical luggage handling, we were very impressed by the attention to detail all around!
Personally, I've never received or expected this level of exquisite service. I always strive to travel affordably and seek out the best deals possible, like it's my job! But just this once, for many reasons, we decided this experience was worth saving for and our expectations were exceeded far beyond measure. Visiting this naturally beautiful area with such diverse landscapes and fascinating history offers an unparalleled experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.
If you'd like further information or have any questions just let me know! 💫 Happy travels!