Experience the Best of Canada by Train

VIA Rail Through the Rockies There is arguably no better way to experience the diverse and incredibly picturesque landscapes of Canada than by train. A number of the country's signature routes are bucket-list worthy journeys boasting impeccable onboard service and accommodations, superb cuisine, and of course, some of the most epic scenery on earth right outside your window. Read on as we profile one such route, and some of the best sights you'll see onboard (and off) VIA Rail's flagship Canadian line. VIA Rail's Train System

The Route

From Toronto, VIA Rail's iconic train, the Canadian, takes riders on a magical, five-day, four-night, 2,775-mile journey across four time-zones and five provinces. Glide through the boreal forests of Northern Ontario, experience the vast expanse of the prairie grasslands, and climb the majestic, snow-capped Canadian Rockies before the train comes to its final stop in vibrant, coastal Vancouver. The journey has been hailed as the most comprehensive portrait of the country's fascinating geographic diversity, and as such, is beloved by both tourists and train aficionados alike.

VIA Rail's The Canadian The route begins (or ends, if heading eastbound) at Toronto’s impressive Union Station, built in 1920 and the finest Beaux Arts-style train station in all of Canada. Once onboard the train, you'll instantly enter a world of calm and comfort as the views begin to shift from your window. Settle into a slower, more relaxed pace with like-minded travelers who are happy to share stories, or give you as much space as you'd like to simply sit back and enjoy the view.

A testament to the Canadian's popularity, a significant investment has been made in recent years to modernizing the train cars themselves, from completely redesigned interiors to upgraded internal systems to ensure a reduction in energy consumption. Travelers have the option of Prestige class, Sleeper Plus class or Economy class for overnight accommodations onboard the Canadian, with all classes featuring the impeccable service VIA Rail is known for. The most luxurious accommodation onboard the Canadian is found in the Prestige class sleeper car, where private, radiant-heated rooms feature a comfortable double bed, en-suite bathroom and shower, large-picture window, flat-screen TV and all-inclusive meal and bar service. Perhaps the best part of Prestige class is that these amenities also come with a dedicated, attentive concierge, able to assist you with your every need.

The Canadian Prestige class bedroom Sleeper Plus class cars onboard the train include Cabins that feature a private room with two retractable stacked beds and an en-suite washbasin and toilet, and Berths, which are semi-private compartments with two stacked beds. The Canadian Sleeper Plus Cabin In addition to the dining car and the various sleeping cars, the train includes a Skyline car (or Dome car) with a glass-ceilinged observation dome, and an elegant Park car for Prestige customers, with a vista dome and observation lounge at the rear of the train. The Canadian Dome Car The Dining Car onboard the Canadian features the fresh, chef-prepared meals that VIA Rail is known for - delicious regionally-inspired food and wine pairings to suit just about any palate.

The Canadian Dining Car

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The Sights

As the Canadian traverses the country in grand style, the following popular sights and stops are just some of what makes this incredible journey so memorable. The entire route is also punctuated by hundreds of lake and river crossings, wildlife sightings in the spring and summer months, and ample opportunities to snap incredible photos. Toronto

The capital of Ontario, Toronto is a modern and incredibly culturally diverse city, occupying a lovely position on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario. Its skyline is dominated by the spike of the CN Tower, which is the tallest structure in the Western Hemisphere. Taking the elevator to the top of the tower for breathtaking views of the city is just one of the not-to-be-missed experiences here. There is also a huge choice of museums, one of the largest zoos in the world, and many other attractions to explore. Toronto's Union Station is located in the heart of the city, and as the Canadian leaves the station heading west, it passes both the CN Tower and the SkyDome sports complex before making its way out of the bustling city. Parry Sound and the Canadian Shield A favorite among hikers and sightseers alike, Parry Sound marks the eastern edge of the Canadian Shield, the massive region characterized by exposed bedrock formed over billions of years. At Mile 150 into the journey on the Canadian, riders will get quite the view of the dramatic rock formations, in some spots towering over the tracks. Have your camera ready for some spectacular shots of the area. Edmonton Alberta’s capital city offers something for everyone, from a thriving cultural scene rich in the arts, to winter recreational activities galore. The city sits along the Saskatchewan River, with the river valley itself being the largest stretch of urban parkland in North America. And if you like shopping, you’ll feel right at home - Edmonton hosts North America’s largest mall, the West Edmonton Mall, spanning the equivalent of 48 city blocks and embodying the true definition of the term “shop ‘til you drop!”

Breathtaking Jasper, nestled in the Canadian Rockies, is perhaps the most popular stop on the entire line. World-famous for its abundance of outdoor sports and activities, the region is said to be the most photographed in all of Canada. Because adjacent Jasper National Park is a wildlife sanctuary, it is common to spot wild animals on this portion of the route. Mount Robson It's hard to miss spectacular Mount Robson, often referred to as the "Monarch of the Canadian Rockies." As the train winds through the Rockies, it affords spectacular views of the highest peak in the mountain range, at 12,972 feet, from a number of different angles. Vancouver Vancouver's majestic Pacific Central Station is a fitting final stop for a memorable trans-Canada journey on the Canadian. Built in 1919 and located on the eastern edge of downtown Vancouver, the beautiful station is a testament to the lasting popularity of train travel in the country. Vancouver is Canada’s largest seaport and one of the country’s most vibrant cultural hubs. The friendly metropolis located between the Canadian Pacific Coast and the greenery of Canada's National Parks, is the perfect setting for enjoying the views of the city's modern skyscrapers set against a rugged mountain backdrop. Walk across the Capilano Suspension Bridge into a West Coast rainforest park, hike up Grouse Mountain, shop on Granville Island or visit the weekly Chinatown Night Market. Don’t leave without taking the lift to the top of the Vancouver Lookout for spectacular panoramas.

The Journeys

The following Railbookers' train vacations feature the Canadian, and include hotels, tours and activities at all the best destinations along the iconic route. Grand Circle of the Canadian Rockies Experience the splendor of the Canadian Rockies on this grand rail journey. Travel through the Canadian Rockies and along the Fraser River and Canyon to places no cars can go. Spend time exploring the iconic emerald lakes and beautiful waterfalls in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Travel to the mountain-side town of Banff, picturesque Lake Louise and along the Icefields Parkway to the charming town of Jasper. Learn more... Canadian Rockies Discovery Eastbound Discover the gorgeous scenery and breathtaking landscapes of the Canadian Rockies on this rail journey from Vancouver to Calgary. See amazing views of Vancouver from hundreds of feet above the ground at the Vancouver Lookout. Stroll down the charming cobblestone streets of Victoria and enjoy afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. See the spectacular natural treasures of Jasper. Learn more... Ultimate Canada and Rockies Eastbound Enjoy this scenic tour through Canada's most beautiful cities. Take in all the most popular sites of Vancouver, including the Vancouver Lookout, where sweeping 360 degree views await you at the top. Soak in the tranquil scenery of Jasper. Stroll the lovely Toronto Harborfront and spend a fun-filled morning touring the majestic Niagara Falls followed by a relaxing wine tasting. Learn more... Classic Canada and Rockies Westbound Experience the wonders of the Canadian Rockies on this cross-Canada journey! Your tour begins in Toronto where you will experience the city's rich and diverse culture. Next you will journey over to see the natural beauty of Niagara Falls. You will then board the classic Canadian route on VIA Rail as you head west towards the Canadian Rockies. Upon arrival to the Rockies, you will be in awe of the scenic majesty as the train makes its way into Jasper National Park. After Jasper, continue on to Vancouver where you will experience the popular Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Learn more... Circle of the Canadian Rockies Travel roundtrip from Vancouver through the breath-taking landscapes of the Canadian Rockies on this scenic rail journey! Explore Vancouver’s Stanley Park and take a stroll along the sea wall for amazing views looking back at Coal Harbour and the City, venture to Granville Island and the Farmers Market for some local foods. Travel on the world-famous Rocky Mountaineer as you wind through the Canadian Rockies making your way to the mountain side town of Banff. Learn more... For more information on all of Railbookers' train vacations throughout Canada, visit our WEBSITE.