Canada’s best rail journeys to add to your Bucket-list
It’s time to step out of your comfort zone and start doing things on your bucket list. If you wish to explore the world, the best way to do exactly that and get to feel the astonishment of this experience is undoubtedly the railroad. This is a great way to meet new people as well as take the time to truly enjoy the new surroundings. And, if you’re thinking about the best destination to start your rail journey, Canada should be at the top of your list. Why, you may wonder? Well, Canada is well-connected by the railroad and offers some amazing journeys that will definitely make the best memories for your bucket list.
Rail to the Rockies
A great start to your new experiences in Canada is undoubtedly the exploration of Canadian Rockies. This journey lasts for 7 days/6 nights, and is more than enough to allow you to experience this part of Canada to the fullest. First, you travel from Vancouver to Jasper by rail, where you get to observe the Canadian Rockies. After you’re done with Jasper exploration, the journey continues to Lake Louise. Remember to bring your camera as you’ll want to preserve the sights of Columbia Icefield as well as Sarbach Glacier, Peyto Lake, and Bow Lake with the Bow Glacier. Then, you can travel to Banff to see Johnston Canyon, Basin National Historic Site, Banff Gondola and Upper Hot Springs, and finalize your journey at Calgary.
Mix of the mountains and fine cuisine
If you’re really interested in seeing the mountain sights on your journey and grab a tasty bite as well, choosing Canada and winter rail packages will spice things up just the way you want it. For example, Canadian Rockies 10 days/9 nights journey will start at Vancouver and end at Calgary. Not only will you experience all the magnificence of the route with the same amazing destinations mentioned previously, but you’ll also be able to explore Kamloops and take part in culinary activities in Vancouver, Jasper, Banff, and Calgary. If your stomach craves for something new and excitingly delicious, this is the kind of itinerary you’d enjoy.
Become a gold rush explorer
Canadian Rockies have something special for everyone, so that you truly feel like your bucket list wish is completely fulfilled. In that sense, a once in a lifetime rail adventure awaits you as you get to experience the gold rush yourself. The journey starts in Vancouver where you get to spend the night and explore the city. Then it’s time to travel to Whistler, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery of the Sea to Sky Corridor. Howe Sound and the Coast Mountains, Brandywine Falls, Mount Garibaldi, and the Cheakamus Canyon will also leave you awestruck. On the third day, you can expect a ride to Quesnel, with shorelines of Anderson Lake and glacier-fed Seton Lake, Fraser Canyon and Pemberton Valley being just some of the sights you’ll get to admire. After that, Jasper will welcome you with all its glory, with UNESCO National Park as well as other attractions. Not to mention that you’ll get to boost your mountaineer experience on your way to Jasper. The rest of the tour includes Lake Louise and already mentioned astonishing Icefields and Glaciers, together with Banff and Calgary.
The ultimate Rocky ride
Create the perfect circle on your Canadian Rockies exploration by starting and ending your journey in Vancouver. Obviously, such a journey will last longer, so expect you’ll need around 13 days/12 nights to complete it and enjoy every sight and attraction on your way. Essentially, the circle goes like this (but you can always tailor it to suit your own needs): Vancouver – Kamloops – Banff – Lake Louise – Jasper – Quesnel – Whistler – Vancouver. Amazing, right? A free day in Vancouver, Banff and Lake Louise will allow you to rest and/or explore the surroundings on your own, while you can expect highlight tours at Banff, Yoho Park, Lake Louise and Jasper. If you have enough time and adventurous spirit, this is the rail route to hit!
More interested in a self-drive?
In case you’d feel the most comfortable and satisfied with a Canadian Rockies journey that combines the railroad and self-drive, don’t hesitate to make it happen! Start your journey in Vancouver and travel by rail to Kamloops and Jasper. After that, you can enjoy a discovery drive on your own as you move from Jasper to Lake Louise, then continue to Banff and end your drive at Calgary where you can drop off your rental car. Make sure you allow yourself enough time to actually explore and experience the amazing sights and highlights along the way. Take things at your own pace, explore the shops and restaurants, take walks outside, discover wildlife and enjoy the scenery on your own accord.
Remember, every itinerary can be customized however you want, so don’t hesitate to let your spirit roam free on this amazing journey to the Rockies. After all, no bucket list should miss the need to see the magic and wonder that nature brings to this world.