15 Scenic Canadian Train Journeys to Take This Year
All aboard! Get ready for a ride through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet, where every twist and turn brings you closer to the heart of Canada.
Canada’s vast and varied landscape is best explored by train, where the journey is as magnificent as the destination. From coast to coast, these train rides showcase Canada’s natural beauty, from rugged mountains to serene lakes and charming towns.
With every stop, you’ll feel like you’re stepping into a postcard, ready to capture moments that last a lifetime. Each route offers a unique window into the country’s soul and an opportunity to witness the Great White North in all its splendor.
If you’re gazing at glaciers, winding through dense forests, or crossing pristine rivers, you’ll experience Canada like never before.
1. Rocky Mountaineer
Hop on the Rocky Mountaineer for a luxurious passage through the breathtaking Rocky Mountains. This train offers unparalleled views of peaks and deep valleys, where you might spot a bear or two.
You can feel the thrill as you cross dramatic bridges and walk through the tunnels. This journey promises not just scenery, but gourmet meals served with a side of storytelling.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or a culinary connoisseur, this is where adventure meets elegance.
2. The Canadian
The Canadian is not just a train, it’s a portal to the past. Here, every mile brings you closer to the timeless beauty and rich history of Canada’s landscape.
You can experience a voyage from Toronto to Vancouver that spans across prairies, lakes, and forests. Each window reveals a new masterpiece of nature to you.
Onboard, the old-world charm is palpable with its vintage decor. This trip will show you different tales of exploration and dreams. The gentle rocking of the train lulls you into a rhythmic contemplation of Canada’s vastness.
3. VIA Rail’s Ocean
VIA Rail’s Ocean is a maritime delight tracing the Atlantic coastline. Starting from Montreal, the train winds its way to Halifax, offering glimpses of lighthouses standing guard over rocky shores.
Here you can feel the sea breeze in your hair as you sip on Nova Scotian wine. The ever-changing seascape is a painter’s dream, with colors and moods as varied as the ocean.
From the deep blues of the open water to the soft pastels of sunset, each view feels like a living masterpiece unfolding before your eyes. This journey is a harmonious blend of tranquility and rugged beauty.
4. White Pass & Yukon Route
Imagine stepping back in time and traveling with an old-fashioned train. Sounds thrilling, right? Picture the sound of the whistle echoing through the mountains as the train chugs along, taking you on an adventure like no other.
With the White Pass & Yukon Route, a marvel of engineering, you can experience the train climbing steep grades from sea level to the sky.
This historic railway, built during the Klondike Gold Rush, offers views of sheer cliffs and sweeping glaciers. The train’s whistle echoes through the valleys, a haunting reminder of the spirited adventurers who once traveled this path.
It’s a ride into the heart of history.
5. Agawa Canyon Tour Train
The Agawa Canyon Tour Train is perfect for those who want to explore Canada’s views full of colors in autumn. The seasonal symphony of reds, oranges, and golds, you can see all of this here.
Journey into the heart of the Canadian Shield, where waterfalls cascade down rock faces and rivers flow through deep gorges. The train’s large windows offer an immersive view, making every passenger feel like a part of the landscape.
6. Royal Canadian Pacific
You can travel like royalty aboard the Royal Canadian Pacific. Here, every detail is crafted for ultimate luxury and comfort.
This is where history and opulence converge. This exclusive journey transports you through remote wilderness areas, offering a glimpse of Canada’s untouched beauty.
Each carriage is a testament to craftsmanship, adorned with rich wood paneling and plush seating. It’s a journey not just through space, but through time, echoing the grandeur of a bygone era.
7. Kettle Valley Steam Railway
The Kettle Valley Steam Railway is a train journey which will offer you a nostalgic ride through British Columbia’s enchanting landscapes. You can hear the rhythmic chug of the steam engine as it crosses towering trestles and winds through orchards.
This railway is a testament to human ingenuity, built through challenging terrain. Onboard, the atmosphere is filled with the scent of coal and the camaraderie of fellow travelers, all eager to relive the golden age of rail.
8. Polar Bear Express
You can embark on the Polar Bear Express for a true northern adventure. The views here are majestic, with Moosonee dominating over anything else.
This train travels deep into the wilderness to Moosonee, the gateway to the Arctic. The scenery is wild and untamed, with boreal forests giving way to vast tundra.
If you’re lucky, the northern lights may dance above the train, painting the sky with ethereal colors. It’s a journey into the heart of a winter wonderland, where the spirit of adventure thrives.
9. The Skeena
The Skeena journey through the train will show you lakes you haven’t seen before! A serene journey through the untouched beauty of northern British Columbia.
This two-day trip from Jasper to Prince Rupert will take you through lush forests and along glistening lakes.
The train’s pace allows for reflection, as you absorb the majesty of peaks and remote landscapes. It’s an escape from the hustle and bustle, where the only thing on your agenda is relaxation.
10. Train de Charlevoix
All aboard for an unforgettable journey! The Train de Charlevoix isn’t just a ride, it’s a front-row ticket to Quebec’s breathtaking scenery. Every twist in the track reveals a new stunning view.
This route connects Quebec City to La Malbaie, passing through quaint villages and verdant hills.
The train hugs the shoreline and you will be able to experience panoramic views of the water. As you journey, you can enjoy local delicacies and let the rhythm of the rails lull you into a blissful state. It’s a delightful way to explore the beauty of Quebec.
11. VIA Rail’s Corridor
VIA Rail’s Corridor connects Canada’s urban centers, but don’t be fooled by its cityscape route. This train will offer you a glimpse into the country’s cultural tapestry as it whizzes by historic sites and busy towns.
Each stop is an invitation to explore communities and rich history. Whether you’re commuting or exploring, the Corridor captures the essence of modern Canadian life.
12. The Malahat
For a scenic journey across Vancouver Island, the Malahat is the pick for you. Here, rainforests meet the Pacific Ocean. This train takes you from Victoria to Courtenay, showcasing stunning coastal views and dense woodlands.
It’s a route rich with biodiversity, where you might glimpse a bald eagle soaring or a seal frolicking in the waves. It’s a breath of fresh air, and a reminder of nature’s majesty.
13. Hudson Bay Railway
The Hudson Bay Railway is a gateway to adventure in northern Manitoba. This train will lead you to traverse prairies, wetlands, and boreal forests, offering a front-row seat to Canada’s diverse ecosystems.
Keep an eye out for migratory birds soaring above or bison roaming the plains. It’s a journey into the heart of the wilderness, where every glance out the window is a new discovery.
14. Algoma Central Railway
The Algoma Central Railway offers a wild ride through Ontario’s rugged landscapes. This train adventure takes you through dense forests and past towering cliffs, with the chance to spot wildlife along the way.
The dramatic scenery is a testament to nature’s artistry, with each twist and turn revealing new panoramas. Whether you’re an artist or an adventurer, this trip will ignite your imagination.
15. Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express
Ontario Northland’s Polar Bear Express is your ticket to the north. This train takes you through the heart of Ontario’s boreal forests, connecting remote communities. It’s a journey filled with the promise of adventure and the thrill of the unknown.
Listen to the stories of fellow travelers and immerse yourself in the spirit of the north. It’s not just a train ride; it’s an odyssey into the wild.