With its breathtaking surroundings, travelling through Canada by train is a terrific way to see the country, and it's bound to become a well-known global travel route. Train travel is a terrific way to see Canada, with breathtaking landscape and the potential to become one of the most well-known global travel routes. The incredible waterfalls, the snow-capped peaks, the ocean inlets, and of course the trees that cover the mountain summits are a site to be hold.
Depending on the season you visit Vancouver in, The Rocky Mountaineer features a day trip called "Whistler Mountaineer". At under six hours, this roundtrip journey is meant to be taken in a day. However you can decide to stay longer in Whistler if you select a different itinerary. The Rocky Mountaineer's train cars are large and you get to pick your type of carriage while on the train - Coast Classic or Glacier Dome. The Dome is the highend with a more luxurious setting before arriving in Whistler where activities like skiing, snowboarding, hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities change seasonally so there is always something to be enjoyed year-round.
From Downtown Vancouver, the train proceeds north along an underutilised freight railway. After the train departs West Vancouver and travels through a tunnel at Horseshoe Bay, you may start to take in the view; high above the Pacific Ocean. The history of the shoreline and the railway company are both covered in the onboard commentary. The conductor of the train is quite friendly and slows down at sights that merit being captured on camera.
Take the Henry Pickering for a portion of the trip for a unique experience. The Henry Pickering is a 1914-era open-sided observation car. You can see Howe Sound, Canada's southernmost fjord, by turning your head to the west while you may notice that the rock wall has vanished if you look to the east; where you will find impassable valleys and waterfalls that are fed by glaciers. You have the chance to experience all the scents of the surrounding forest while riding in the open carriage.
The rail line begins to move inland and ascend up into the coastal mountain range when it arrives at the former logging town of Squamish. It then moves slowly down the Cheakamus Canyon's rim; the most amazing waterfall is visible as it tumbles down the tall cliffs that surround it. The 3000 metre peaks of Mount Garibaldi are visible in the distance and if you have the courage to look down, you can see the water flowing beneath the train as it crosses the sharp rocks at this point. The railway is now travelling on a single-track trestle bridge.
The scenery changes as you are out of the canyon. The train enters the Canada seen on postage stamps after you go over Brandywine Falls. You'll notice woods and lakes tucked away beneath snow-capped mountain summits. Once you arrive in Whistler you can have an overnight stopover or a visit of one and a half hours if you are not extending your stay.
You'll have ample time to have a leisurely lunch at one of the outdoor cafes, explore the shops, and grab some photos. Once you've had your fill of the outdoors and delicious meals, it's time to board the train for the trip back. A whole fresh perspective is unveiled as the train departs from the mountains and goes back toward Vancouver; it is viewed from an entirely different angle.
You'll want to keep touring Canada by rail after you get back to Vancouver because it's one of the most gorgeous experiences you'll ever have.
If you are wanting to head up to Whistler but don't want to take the train? Then another option could be a small coach tour. Feel free to click the blue link for more information and to check availability as well as prices.
Whistler Small-Group Day Trip from Vancouver
Play in wild and beautiful British Columbia on a small-group trip to the alpine village of Whistler. Enjoy pickup from Vancouver or Richmond and head off on an epic tour through mountainous terrain and past rushing waterfalls on your way to the world-famous ski destination. Enjoy ample time in Whistler to eat, explore the village, and take optional tours of sites like Squamish, Shannon Falls, and the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Center.
Rocky Mountains Premium Tour (4 nights, 5 days)
Let a professional coach driver do the navigating into the heart of the Canadian Rockies as you sit back and take in the glorious mountain views. On this 4-night trip that departs from and returns to a convenient location in downtown Vancouver, all of your overnight accommodations are included. Daily breakfast is also included, and your itinerary features plenty of free time to spend just the way you like.
If you love fast cars and driving then the Sea to Sky is the best place to enjoy both. This is a tour that I used to sell to my clients often and they loved it:
Sea to Sky Exotic Driving Experience
Go on a drive along British Columbia’s Sea to Sky Highway, one of the most picturesque roads on the planet, with this exotic car experience from Vancouver. As you take the wheel of a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or other high-end vehicle, cruise along the road from Eagle Harbour in West Vancouver. Head north on the highway, making stops to take photos and swap to another exotic car — you'll drive four different models during this experience.
