Embark on a Scenic Journey on the Rocky Mountaineer through the Canadian Rockies (part 1)

My husband and I, along with some of my favorite clients, had the pleasure of experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer luxury train last week. This trip has long been on my bucket list, as it is on many others I speak to, so we were excited to see what was in store. This unforgettable journey weaved through majestic landscapes, taking us on an enchanting adventure from the starting point at the Fairmont Waterfront Hotel in Vancouver, B.C., to the final stop at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. There is too much good stuff to tell you about, so I’ll split it between two blogs.

One can expect a unique and enchanting experience when embarking on a train journey. However, the level of luxury and comfort can vary depending on the service chosen. The Rocky Mountaineer is particularly unique as there are two levels of service. The Gold Leaf service promises an opulent and extravagant voyage. Picture yourself reclining in plush leather seats, sipping champagne while gazing out of the domed windows at breathtaking panoramic views. Impeccable service and gourmet meals are just a few of the perks that await you in the Gold Leaf cars.

On the other hand, the Silver Leaf service offers a more affordable option without compromising on quality. While it may lack some of the lavishness of its counterpart, passengers can still expect comfortable seating, delicious meals, and captivating scenery. So, whether you opt for the Gold Leaf or Silver Leaf service, a train journey will be an unforgettable adventure.

Vancouver, B.C.: Our journey began in Vancouver, a vibrant city that combines urban sophistication with stunning natural beauty. We enjoyed two days exploring the area, wandering around beautiful Stanley Park and seeing the famous Totem Poles there, watching the seaplanes gracefully take off and land at the waterfront, enjoying the best fish and chips I’ve ever had on Granville Island, and ending with a memorable food tour in Chinatown!

Our “Wok Around Chinatown” tour was led by former chef Robert Sung, a third-generation Chinese Canadian whose tours not only shared the culinary delicacies of Vancouver’s Chinatown but also how cultural traditions are intertwined with it, including a visit to a local market, where many food products are sold for medicinal purposes. We sampled BBQ pork, apple dumplings, and different types of tea. We ended with an enormous lunch at a local restaurant. Be sure to arrive hungry!

Boarding the Rocky Mountaineer: As we stepped onto the train, we were warmly greeted by the friendly staff (known as hosts) dedicated to ensuring our comfort throughout the journey and sharing their humorous stories about the landmarks we would see along the way. We settled into our spacious, glass-dome coach, where panoramic windows provided unobstructed views of the passing landscapes. The train gently glided away from Vancouver, and the adventure began. 

Leaving Vancouver behind, the Rocky Mountaineer makes its way through the rugged wilderness toward Kamloops. The train snakes along the tracks, offering panoramic views of towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and pristine lakes. The scenery is so breathtaking that it feels like stepping into a postcard. As you sit back and relax in the comfortable train car, you can’t help but be captivated by the sheer beauty of nature unfolding before you.

The Scenic Ride to Kamloops: As the train chugged along, we were captivated by the ever-changing scenery. Immense mountains in lush forests tower in the distance while crystal-clear rivers carve through the valleys. We always wanted to be camera-ready to capture stunning vistas and sightings of elusive creatures such as bears, elk, and eagles, adding a touch of wilderness to this unforgettable journey.

At day’s end, we disembarked in Kamloops, a sleepy city on the Thompson River. This part of the journey served as a good place to lay our heads before continuing deep into the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

After a night in Kamloops, the journey continued towards Lake Louise and Banff – two of the most picturesque destinations in the Canadian Rockies. As a proper sendoff, in true form, local resident, Doris, showed up with her signature wave as she has done every time for the last 15 years! Maybe she’ll greet you on yours, too?

As the train winded its way through the breathtaking mountainous terrain, we passed Craigellachie, where the last spike for the Canadian-Pacific Railway was driven in 1885, and the Continental Divide, which determines which direction rivers flow (to the Atlantic or to the Pacific Oceans). The train passed through tunnels carved into the mountains, adding an element of thrill to the experience. Two awe-inspiring Spiral Tunnels, a marvel of engineering, were built to help trains navigate steep inclines and sharp turns. This spiral tunnel allows the train to gain elevation while minimizing the gradient, offering an incredible viewpoint as the train loops through the mountainside.

Arrival at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: Finally, the train gracefully arrived at its destination, Lake Louise, where the emerald-green waters harmoniously blend with the surrounding snow-capped mountains and glaciers, creating a postcard-perfect scene that will forever be etched in the hearts of those fortunate enough to witness it.

Other Rocky Mountaineer routes include Jasper National Park, but all of them showcase not only the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies but also the remarkable engineering feats and landmarks that make this journey so extraordinary. Stay tuned for next week’s blog, where I’ll share about our stay at the breathtaking Lake Louise and Banff and many stunning photos!