Make your way past coastal fjords, through lush temperate rainforests and over spectacular mountain passes on a 3-day train trip between Vancouver and Jasper, with overnight stops in Whistler and Quesnel. This is the longest journey offered by the award-winning Rocky Mountaineer and heads along some of the lesser-explored rail lines in the British Columbia wilderness.
Take in unbeatable views of Howe Sound, delight in the charms of Whistler, view the gold-flecked canyons along the historic gold rush route and be wowed as the spectacular Canadian Rockies come into view. Travelling only by day and sleeping in hotels at night means you won’t miss a second of the ever-changing scenery.
Day 1: Vancouver to Whistler
Spectacular scenery greets you immediately as the train departs the North Vancouver station and winds its way along Horseshoe Bay and the scenic fjords of Howe Sound. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast as you gaze at the beautiful coastal landscape.
Soon you’ll bid farewell to the ocean and head into the majestic Coast Mountains. You’ll pass by The Chief, one of Vancouver’s most famous local landmarks, before ending up in world-famous Whistler.
You’ll have plenty of time left in the day to explore the many shops and restaurants in the village. Or take a ride on the impressive Peak-2-Peak Gondola, which connects Whistler and Blackcomb mountain peaks in what is the highest gondola ride in the world – an incredible 426 metres above the valley floor! Panoramic views of volcanic peaks, coastal rainforests and ancient glaciers make this an unforgettable experience.
Day 2: Whistler to Quesnel
As the train departs Whistler this morning, you’ll have beautiful views of the Fraser River Valley. Enjoy a gourmet breakfast and get an up-close view of some of the most contrasting landscapes in Western Canada, where rushing rivers meet arid expanses.
The train continues along a historic rail route through the gold-flecked canyons of British Columbia’s central interior that drew thousands of prospectors during the Cariboo Gold Rush of 1862. Enjoy a delicious three-course lunch as you gaze at the ever-changing landscape.
The day’s journey ends in Quesnel, a vibrant community situated at the confluence of the Quesnel and Fraser rivers.
Day 3: Quesnel to Jasper
Enjoy one last gourmet breakfast with a view as the train rolls out of Quesnel and heads through northern British Columbia towards Alberta and Jasper National Park.
Your journey into the Rockies takes you past serene lakes, rushing waterfalls, and an increasingly mountainous terrain. Enjoy breathtaking views along with your chef-prepared lunch. As you get closer to your final destination in Jasper, you’ll find yourself surrounded by mountain peaks that reach up into the sky. Take in the view through the panoramic windows. Your hosts will point out the most prominent peaks, including the memorable Mount Robson, which has the distinction of being the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.
Your journey ends in the enchanting mountain town of Jasper, where you can dip your toes into the turquoise waters of the famous glacially-fed lakes and take in the wonder of the Rockies.
Price for Rainforest to Gold Rush Rail Classic Eastbound package per person in CAD, for departure Vancouver on April 25, 2024, in GoldLeaf Service with Standard Room accommodation, subject to availability. Accommodation is based on double occupancy. Hotel level applies to hotels in destinations only, not to midpoint hotels. Pricing includes applicable taxes. Additional conditions apply.
The Rocky Mountaineer features three unique rail excursions through the Canadian Rockies. Take a look at our Journey Through The Clouds and First Passage to the West excursions for more itinerary options. Please note that each itinerary can also be done in reverse.
Copyright © 2023 Landsby, a Division of OST.travel Inc.. All rights reserved.Â
TICO Registration #50014459 and #50014570