What is the most scenic train ride in Canada?

What is the best scenic train route in Canada?

Forget those other routes, pal. The Rocky Mountaineer is the undisputed king. It’s like riding a velvet rollercoaster through a postcard. Seriously, those mountains? They’re taller than my ex’s expectations.

VIA Rail’s The Canadian? Yeah, it’s long. Really long. Like, watching paint dry long. And sleeping on a train? That’s a recipe for neck cramps and bad dreams. It’s a marathon, not a sprint, my friend.

The Ocean? Montreal to Halifax? Sounds about as exciting as watching grass grow. Unless you’re really into… maritime… stuff.

Here’s the deal:

• Rocky Mountaineer: Luxury, amazing views, no sleepless nights. Think first-class, not coach. My cousin went last year; he’s still bragging.
• VIA Rail’s The Canadian: A test of endurance. Bring snacks. And maybe a neck brace. Good for seeing Canada, bad for your back.
• VIA Rail’s Ocean: Meh. Save your pennies for something more memorable.

Think of it this way: Rocky Mountaineer is a five-star hotel on wheels. The Canadian is a hostel with a slightly better view. The Ocean? It’s… well, it’s a train.

2024 Update: Ticket prices? Through the roof, even higher than Mount Robson! Book early, people, early! Or you’ll be stuck watching grass grow, I tell ya.

What is Canadas greatest hidden rail trip?

Canada’s best-kept rail secret? The Algoma Central Railway’s Agawa Canyon Tour Train. It’s not exactly “hidden,” but it’s certainly less hyped than some other tourist traps. This isn’t your grandma’s train ride.

This day trip blasts you into Northern Ontario’s untamed beauty. Think dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls – you know, the good stuff. The autumn colours are legendary; pure magic. It’s a visual feast, really.

My own trip – in 2023 – was unforgettable. The sheer scale of the landscape, honestly overwhelming.

• Spectacular Scenery: Agawa Canyon itself is a masterpiece of nature’s artistry. The sheer cliffs and the powerful falls leave you breathless.
• Fall Foliage: Peak season, obviously, is fall, when the entire area erupts in a kaleidoscope of colour. It’s breathtaking.
• Unique Wilderness Experience: This isn’t just a train ride; it’s an immersion in a largely untouched wilderness. It offers a distinct contrast to urban life, a much-needed reset. Makes you ponder life’s priorities.
• Comfortable Journey: The train itself is surprisingly comfortable. Not luxurious, but perfectly adequate. Plenty of room, nice views from every seat (almost).

But, consider this: the remoteness is a double-edged sword. Cell service is spotty at best. Prepare to disconnect. Perhaps, that’s the real allure. It’s an escape.

I’d recommend booking well in advance, especially for peak season. Last minute tickets are tough to get. Seriously, plan ahead. I almost didn’t get a seat!

The whole experience, honestly, felt a bit spiritual. A humbling reminder of nature’s power. A great escape from the everyday grind. The train ride’s not just transport; it’s a journey inward.

What is the best train ride through The Canadian Rockies?

Ugh, the Rocky Mountaineer. Seriously though, best?

Okay, so 2017, summer, I splurged. It was the First Passage to the West route. Vancouver to Banff.

Think plush seats, dome roof, endless views. And open bar, kinda.

But get this, Daylight ONLY. No sleeping on board. Hotels in Kamloops.

It’s expensive. I mean, really expensive. Was it worth it? Hmm.

The scenery IS mind-blowing. Like postcards come alive. The Kicking Horse Pass, unforgettable. Emerald Lake, oh my god!

Service? Impeccable. Food? Decent.

The Kamloops hotels were… fine. Nothing special. But who cared, mountains, yay!

Here’s the thing, though. It’s… touristy. VERY touristy.

Think older couples. Think picture-taking every five seconds. Think forced cheerfulness.

I, being a somewhat grumpy soul, found it a bit much at times.

But hey, no regrets. Once in a lifetime kinda thing.

Was it the “best”? Depends what you’re after. If you want luxury and zero hassle, then yeah.

If you prefer roughing it a bit more, maybe not.

Alternative options to consider:

• VIA Rail, cheaper but slower. Also allows overnight travel.
• Driving yourself, more flexibility. Less hand-holding.
• Hiking, for maximum mountain immersion. Obviously.

Rocky Mountaineer: Pros & Cons (in my humble opinion):

• Pros: Amazing views, top-notch service, comfortable, stress-free.
• Cons: Pricey AF, very touristy, limited route options, hotels in Kamloops aren’t awesome.

Which is the most scenic Rocky Mountaineer route?

First Passage to the West: Banff to Vancouver.

This route stakes its claim as the most scenic. It follows a historical path, once known as the Kicking Horse route. A journey back, wouldn’t you agree?

• Historical significance adds a layer.

• Banff and Vancouver anchor the experience.

• Kicking Horse Pass is a key feature.

Scenery is subjective. What resonates more: history or the raw vista? The route’s earlier name hints at the challenges of passage. Names matter, after all.

What is the difference between VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer?

Via Rail… it’s like seeing Canada through a slightly smudged window. More affordable, yes, absolutely.

Rocky Mountaineer, though. Ah, that’s all about the daylight views. Like looking at a postcard come to life.

VIA just… gets you there. It’s about the destination, maybe. Night travel is common.

Rocky Mountaineer wants you to savor the journey. Just… daylight.

VIA Rail

• Price: Lower cost for travel.
• Service: Runs day and night. Expect sleeping arrangements onboard.
• Focus: Connecting destinations across Canada, not solely about scenic viewing.
• Experience: More like public transit.

Rocky Mountaineer

• Price: Higher, premium pricing.
• Service: Daylight travel only. No overnight travel on the train.
• Focus: Scenic landscapes of the Rockies. The trip is the point.
• Experience: More like a curated tour.

What is the best rail trip across Canada?

Best rail trip across Canada? Well, lemme tell ya, it’s like askin’ what’s the best poutine—everyone’s got a fave! But here’s the lowdown, straight from yours truly (who once accidentally got on a train headed to Moose Jaw instead of Moncton, whoops!):

• Vancouver to Toronto on The Canadian: This is your ‘see Canada and then some’ kinda trip. Think sprawling prairies, Rocky Mountains, and enough scenery to make your eyeballs pop out. Coast-to-coast action!

• Montréal to Halifax on The Ocean: Perfect for newbies to the whole train travel thing. Plus, lobster rolls in Halifax are, like, chef’s kiss. Easy peasy, lemon squeezy!

• Winnipeg to Churchill adventure: If you’re into polar bears more than people (I get it, TBH), this is your jam. Seriously wild nature. Pack your long johns!

• Jasper to Prince Rupert on The Rupert Rocket: The Rupert Rocket – sounds like a space adventure, but it’s just a scenic route. I once saw a moose wearing a tiny hat on this route. No cap!

More deets ’cause why not?

• The Canadian is basically a rolling hotel. Expect comfy seats, decent grub, and maybe a tipsy singalong in the observation car. Don’t forget your earplugs if you’re a light sleeper!

• The Ocean is a shorter haul, meaning less time for existential train thoughts and more time for exploring Halifax’s quirky shops and pubs. Yay for Alexander Keith’s beer!

• Churchill is all about the wildlife. Beluga whales? Check. Northern lights? If you’re lucky! The people are very friendly too.

• The Rupert Rocket is sleeper-car light. So pack your own snacks, and maybe a pillow too. And keep an eye out for mooses in hats – it could happen!