If one considers traveling to the second biggest country on the planet, the various beautiful landscapes that this country possesses will make any traveler’s dream come true. What if one gets a chance to see the beauty of the country in such a way that one may soak in its diverse scenery without stresses of driving or flying? Exploring Canada by train offers just that: a laid-back, immersive fashion of traveling from coast to coast through the majestic mountains, lush forests, vibrant cities, and more. Whether one is into nature, loves photography, or simply looks for a special adventure in travel, these seven scenic routes will take one on an epic journey across Canada by train.
Why Choose Train Travel in Canada?
This method offers a unique way to travel across Canada by train, enriching yet easy. Unlike flying, with a quick touch-down at your destination but no time for scenery, or driving, with road-hugging attention, rail transportation allows you to lean back while appreciating the change in vistas. It’s everything from towering mountains and thick forests to serene lakes and vibrant cities that unfold before you from your seat. With its vast and diverse geography, Canada’s natural beauty is truly appreciated during a train journey in ways that few modes of transport can.
Other major advantages of traveling by train in Canada are comfort and convenience. Long-distance trains, such as The Canadian or The Rocky Mountaineer, have panoramic windows, reclining seats, and even sleeper cabins in which one can relax and enjoy the trip. It is slower, which provides views without any rush, thus ideal for those who love scenic routes and leisurely travel.
Whether for the landscapes, convenience, or sustainability factor, traversing Canada by train constitutes a unique way to explore its beauty, culture, and history up close in a way that is much more personal.
7 most scenic train routes to Explore in Canada by train
The Canadian: A Cross-Country Adventure
Route: Toronto to Vancouver
Distance: 4,466 kilometers
Duration: 4 days and 4 nights
Book Online: Via Rail Canada
The Canadian is one of the world’s most famous train journeys, across Canada from Toronto in the east to Vancouver in the west. Its route crosses a gamut of scenery, everything from frenetic cities in Ontario through the oft-dramatic peaks of the Rocky Mountains to British Columbia’s lush rainforests. Exploring the Canada by Train on this route is like walking into a postcard every minute of your journey.
Highlights of the Journey:
- Ontario’s Lakes and Forests: Early in the journey, it winds its way through the tranquil scenery of Ontario, characterized by extensive forests and sparkling lakes. Some beautiful natural scenes that you will be taken through include areas such as Sudbury and Northern Ontario.
- The Prairies: You continue to see the wide open expanses of the Prairies-open skies meeting fields of wheat in abrupt, yet soothing juxtaposition.
- Rocky Mountains: The Rockies form the last and most spectacular part of this journey: snow-capped summits, turquoise-colored rivers, and thick forests seemingly stretching into eternity.
Traveling across the length of Canada aboard a train using The Canadian gives unrivaled insight into the vastness and diversity of the Canada by Train.
The Rocky Mountaineer: A Luxurious Mountain Getaway
Route: Vancouver to Banff/Jasper
Distance: 850 kilometers (varies by route)
Duration: 2 days
Book Online: Rocky Mountaineer
Rocky Mountaineer is the choice for those who want luxury on wheels. Since the train runs only during the day, one gets to see Western Canada by train in style, with all gourmet meals and impeccable service.
Highlights of the Journey:
- Fraser Valley and River Canyons: Starting in Vancouver, the train begins to climb the impressive Fraser Valley, a land of towering forests that tucks away the fabled Hell’s Gate. To see the Fraser River roaring below is exciting.
- The Spiral Tunnels: Engineering marvel of yester years, Spiral Tunnels facilitate the ascent of steep grades by the train within the Rocky Mountains. The views from here are simply breathtaking.
- Banff National Park: It ends either in Banff or Jasper, with you surrounded by towering peaks of the Canadian Rockies. The journey can easily be extended to explore these national parks, famous for their wildlife, glaciers, and hot springs.
CHECK OUT – Ultimate Vancouver to Banff Road Trip: 2 Incredible Back-and-Forth Journeys
This luxurious route is perfect if one desires to see Western Canada by train and enjoy first-class service along with unforgettable landscapes.
VIA Rail’s Ocean: Atlantic Coast Charm
Route: Montreal to Halifax
Distance: 1,346 kilometers
Duration: 1 day and 1 night
Book Online: Via Rail Canada
If you’re looking for something a bit more coastal, check out VIA Rail’s Ocean route from Montreal to Halifax. This is the perfect route for those taking in the charm of Canada’s Atlantic provinces via rail.
Highlights of the Journey:
- St. Lawrence River: Early in the journey, the train follows the path of the St. Lawrence River with a number of scenic views out onto its wide waters and coastal villages.
- Rural Quebec: Farther east, topography gives way to the rolling hills and rural farmland of the province of Quebec and offers peaceful pastoral beauty.
- Nova Scotia’s Coastline: Approaching Halifax, the train hugs the coastline with breathtaking ocean views of the Atlantic. Halifax is steeped in maritime history, the perfect destination at the end of a relaxing journey such as this one.
The train ride to eastern Canada gives the passenger the experience of the rich culture and history of the Atlantic provinces amidst beautiful coastal views.
The Corridor: City to City Along the St. Lawrence
Route: Quebec City to Windsor
Distance: 1,150 kilometers
Duration: Varies by segment
Book Online: Via Rail Canada
A popular route for those who want to see Canada by train, going through its major cities, the Corridor is a route that should take passengers from Quebec City and Montreal, through Ottawa, into Toronto and finally to Windsor for an in-depth exploration into Canada’s urban heartland, focusing on culture, history, and innovation.
Highlights of the Journey:
- Quebec City: Starting your journey with more of a European town-with cobblestone streets and three-century-old architecture-end.
- Montreal: Vibrant in every sense, Montreal is one of the most European flavourful cities in Canada, offering both French and English cultures, delicious food, and iconic sights such as Mont Royal and Old Montreal.
- Toronto: The largest city in the country, from towering skyscrapers and ethnically diverse neighborhoods to world-class museums, is all here.
The Corridor gets you through some of the best of urban Canada by train, with the flavor and appeals unique to each city.
The Skeena: Remote Beauty in Northern British Columbia
Route: Jasper to Prince Rupert
Distance: 1,160 kilometers
Duration: 2 days (with overnight stop in Prince George)
Book Online: Via Rail Canada
The Skeena route by train takes you through some of the most remote and untouched landscapes in Canada as it winds its way through northern British Columbia. Those who seek solitude with a touch of natural beauty should not forget this route.
Highlights of the Journey:
- Mount Robson: Early on, you pass Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies; views of this mountain are a highlight of the trip.
- Wildlife Viewing: This region contains bears, moose, and eagles, all of which sometimes can be seen from the train, so keep your eyes peeled.
- Coastal Mountains: As you near Prince Rupert, it becomes even more dramatic: stark peaks, fog-shrouded inlets.
The Skeena is the train that travels through northern British Columbia in a peaceful, undeveloped manner, affording the opportunity for more intimate contact with nature.
The Polar Bear Express: Journey to the Edge of the Arctic
Route: Cochrane to Moosonee
Distance: 296 kilometers
Duration: 5 hours
Book Online: Ontario Northland
If you’re looking for an adventure that will take you quite literally to the edge of the Arctic, then Polar Bear Express is one of the most different rail journeys in Canada. This track runs from Cochrane to Moosonee for tourists interested in the wildlife and strange cultures of the Northernmost reaches.
Highlights of the Journey:
- Hudson Bay Lowlands: This train cuts through the Hudson Bay Lowlands, a sparsely populated natural region in Canada.
- Moose River and James Bay: It is a small community on the Moose River at the bottom of James Bay, and there will also be exposure to local Indigenous cultures and the unique environment.
Taking this trip through Canada by train allows the traveler to experience remote northern wilderness and to look at life in the Arctic regions from another angle.
The White Pass & Yukon Route: A Historic Train Journey
Route: Skagway, Alaska to Carcross, Yukon
Distance: 110 kilometers
Duration: 5 hours (one-way)
Book Online: White Pass & Yukon Route
Although this trip originates technically in Alaska, the White Pass & Yukon Route is one of those classic train routes that find their terminus in the Yukon. In so doing, it really makes for a great way to explore northernmost Canada by rail.
Highlights of the Journey:
- Historic Route: The narrow-gauge railway, originally constructed during the Klondike Gold Rush, takes you through steep mountain passes into a breathtaking panorama of waterfalls, glaciers, and gorges.
- Summit of White Pass: It ascends the summit of White Pass, at 2,865 feet, where you have a panoramic view of the surroundings.
- Carcross Desert: Upon arrival to Yukon, visit Carcross, a city which happens to have the world’s smallest desert, along with an Indigenous culture that is surely unique.
This historic journey supplies unforgettable adventure views to the far reaches of northern Canada by train.
Tips for First-Time Train Travelers
First-time travelers find the journeys across Canada by train quite indelible. The scenic routes, comfortable seating, and unmatched ambiance on board make train journeys very ideal for touring this beautiful nation. Here are some tips to make your trip in the country as smooth and enjoyable as possible:.
Book in Advance
If you plan an adventure across Canada by train, you need to book tickets well ahead. Sometimes-considering peak travel seasons-the route gets filled up quite fast. The advantage with early bookings is that you get a guarantee of seats, saving money on promotional fares and discounts.
CHECK OUT – Coastal Circle Route Road Trip | Your Free Guide for a 6 days trip
Choose the Right Route
Canada by train has various routes to travel through, each with its charm. Research some of the different routes to find one that best suits your interests. Whether you want to experience the Rockies on The Canadian or enjoy the coastal beauty on the Ocean route, picking the right train journey will really make your trip special.
Arrive Early at the Station
It will be nice if you reach the railway station well in advance before the departure time. It is likely to be a busy train station, and you should have enough time to verify your ticket, locate the platform from where you are scheduled to board, and then board the train. You should try to reach there a minimum of 30 to 60 minutes in advance, especially if you are not well familiar with the station.
Pack Wisely
Packing efficiently will be very important on this tour of Canada by Train. You can bring snacks, refillable water bottles, and entertainment-like books or games-for yourself. While the majority of the trains have dining services, having your favorite snacks with you will make your travel more pleasant.
Dress Comfortably
Train travel through Canada may take several hours, and you want to use the layer approach. It may get hot, and then again, it may get cold; that is why you want to be comfortable throughout the journey of Canada by Train. Choose breathable fabrics and remember to wear a light jacket or sweater every time the air conditioning of the train suddenly kicks in.
Engage with Fellow Travelers
One of the highlights of traveling across Canada by train is definitely the other passengers. Make full use of the dining areas or lounges to make small talk with fellow travelers. You can make either travel buddies or get handy tips on the places you will be visiting.
Enjoy the Scenery
By train, Canada is a visual wonder of a country to travel through; take the time to enjoy the scenery. Get yourself a window seat and keep your camera ready to shoot amazing landscapes as you pass them by. Many trains also include an observation car where passengers can pay particular attention to the passing scenery and enjoy their journey in Canada by Train.
Stay Connected
If you will be relying on the internet to help you get around or stay in touch with others during your journey, check ahead of time if your train has Wi-Fi. Some routes may have little or no connectivity; make sure you download any maps or information you may need prior to boarding, so you’re prepared for your journey.
Familiarize Yourself with Train Etiquette
Train etiquette will further help you in having a smooth journey. Take care of the noise, respect the shared space, and always abide by the guidelines given by the train staff.
Given the above suggestions, your travel to tour Canada by Train will be an adventure filled with pleasure and breathtaking views, along with timeless memories. Get on board with your ticket and begin the most epic journey across this huge beautiful country!
What to Expect on a Train Journey
The train travel through Canada is incomparable, melding comfort, scenery, and adventure in equal measure. You may spend your trip in ample seating with large windows to frame panoramic views of the Canadian landscape. The tender rocking of the train creates a soothing atmosphere, making it so easy to relax and watch the scenery unfold outside.
Most of the trains have a number of amenities to make your travel more comfortable. Dining cars offer delectable meals representing the specialties of the region, so you can taste the region’s cuisine as you travel by train around Canada. Some of the trains do provide sleeper cabins to make one take overnight journeys so that you can get off fresh at your destination and start enjoying yourself.
Of course, then there is the entertainment onboard when you explore Canada by Train. Many of the routes have free Wi-Fi, so you could keep in touch or mount your trip on social media. In addition, the staff on board is very friendly and quite knowledgeable, telling stories about some of the things you will be seeing, which enriches your trip even further.
This form of travel will also evoke a sense of community amongst fellow passengers. Many travelers often use the time to talk about the many facets of Canada, sharing stories and tips with one another. This further heightens the fun of traveling through Canada by train and provides an opportunity to network with one another versus a mere transportation option.
Overall, your journey through Canada by train will be filled with breathtaking views, comfort, and memorable experiences that will make you fall in love with this incredible country.
Final Thoughts
From the towering peak of the Rockies to the rolling hills of Quebec and the remote wilderness of the Arctic, no other country in the world has as many beautiful large landscapes to see in Canada by Train. Whether one wants luxury, adventure, or simply a relaxing way to travel, Canada by train can offer something for everyone.
Now that you know of these seven epic routes, it is time to take the journey for yourself and see Canada by train. Have you taken one of these trips already, or are you planning on taking one soon? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comment section below and let’s continue this conversation!
