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A Guide to Canadian Railroads

Published Sep 23, 2024

8 min read

Millions of people ride the public Canadian railroad every year. The Canada railroad's rich history dates back to the 1800s, creating a shared experience between generations of passengers who boarded trains bound for various destinations across the country. As the railroads grew, so did Canada's landscape and opportunities. Nowadays, you'll find passengers headed to and from work, to see loved ones, and to embrace grand adventures through luxury train travel while enjoying a scenic view. There's so much more to Canadian railroads than what many passengers typically see on a regular basis.

Part of the Railroads in Canada, Via Rail's Corridor train connects several major cities in Central Canada.

The local travel. experts at Canadian Train Vacations by Fresh Tracks Canada help visitors to Canada experience rail tours across this scenic country. This guide examines the history, routes, and tours available on the railways in Canada.

The Dawn of Railroads in Canada

The history of Canadian railroads is complex, filled with developments, business deals, tragedy, intrigue, financial growth and hardships, and a slew of other elements.

Many significant events have happened along the way, including the start of the Champlain and St. Lawrence Railroad, which began serving passengers on July 25, 1836 — making it the first public railroad in the country.

Various other events, including the Canadian Pacific Railway origins dating to October 15, 1872, the completion of the North Shore Railway in 1879, the Canadian Pacific Railway's "last spike" in 1885, the country's first train robbery in 1904, the Sudbury Train Disaster of 1910, and the establishment of Via Rail in 1977 are only some of the most prominent happenings throughout Canadian railway history.

Insider Tip: Explore railway history through vacation reading
Any trip can be enriched by reading and the railroads in Canada have inspired many books. A book set on the train is the perfect travel companion. Recommended titles include novel The Sleeping Car Porter by Suzette Mayr and non-fiction Train Beyond the Mountains by Rick Antonson.

Athena McKenzie
Content Manager

Iconic Canadian Train Routes

Certain train routes are integral to the country’s commerce. For instance, in 2023, Canadian Pacific Kansas City (CPKC) became the first single-line transnational railway. The famous Canadian train route transports freight between Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

Other routes are more famous for their passenger trains and iconic scenery. One of the premier scenic train journeys in Canada starts with stepping aboard the Ocean, courtesy of VIA Rail. It's a one-day and one-night, 1,346-kilometer (836-mile) journey between Montreal and Halifax. Sleeper Plus and Economy classes are available. The views along the way are sensational, making the entire trip an incredible experience.

Engineering Marvels: Bridges and Tunnels

There are some truly spectacular Canadian railroad engineering examples throughout the country. One of the most notable is the Spiral Tunnels, which opened in 1909, the answer to safely navigating the extremely steep landscape. This trip between Field and Kicking Horse Pass is breathtaking, and you can experience it via the First Passage to the West route available with Rocky Mountaineer.

Another incredible example is the Lethbridge Viaduct, aka the High Level Bridge. Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway and completed in 1909 in Lethbridge, it goes over the Oldman River, stretching a whopping 1.62 kilometers (5,327 feet) and standing 0.095 kilometers (314 feet) high.

Cultural and Historic Train Stations

The expansive and extensive nature of the country's rail system has produced historic train stations across Canada. Many are so beloved that they're safeguarded under the Heritage Railway Stations Protection Act, enacted in 1990. Some on the list are still in use, while others are either no longer in use or are being used for a different purpose.

Some that are still in use include the Canadian National Railway Station in Kamloops, British Columbia; the Canadian National Railway/VIA Rail Station in Sioux Lookout, Ontario; the Du Palais Station in Quebec; the VIA Rail/Canadian National Railways Station in Gillam, Manitoba; the Canadian Pacific Railway Station in White River, Ontario; and the VIA Rail/Canadian National Railways Station in Portage la Prairie, Manitoba.

Insider Tip: Some trains don’t run every day
You’ll want to get off the system of trains that cross Canada and spend some time exploring key destinations, such as Halifax, Montreal, Toronto, Jasper, and Vancouver. Do know that you may have to spend more than one night in these places as some routes don’t run every day.

Hannah Poaros-McDermott
Travel Writer and Senior Content Coordinator

Economic Impact of Railroads in Canada

The addition of railroads in Canada didn't just change its landscape. It impacted almost every industry in the country while affecting the lives of many of its residents.

Railroads connected people and places like never before, allowed for the development of new cities, towns, and businesses, created many jobs at every level, and opened up a new type of adventure and tourism.

Goods and individuals could get to far-off places within the nation, especially as freight services in Canada expanded. Dreamers turned thoughts into tangible businesses. The economic impact of Canadian railroads allowed for a whole world of financial possibilities and professional relationships that many people could have only hoped for in the business world.

Train Travel and Canadian Culture

The drama, success, ups and downs, history, beauty, and complicated nature of the railroad industry from its beginning have practically made it a movie that writes itself. Unsurprisingly, trains in Canadian culture have been a part of many types of art, literature, and film. Noteworthy examples include "Canadian Railroad Trilogy," a song by Gordon Lightfoot from his 1967 album, The Way I Feel, and The Sleeping Car Porter, a 2022 novel by Suzette Mayr. You'll also find railroads in Canadian photographs and paintings, such as Alex Colville's 1954 Horse and Train.

Anyone with a deep love or interest in the Canadian train culture can surely appreciate the wide variety of depictions that have appeared in everything from books to music to photographs over the years.

Comparing Canadian Railroads to Global Giants

One of the most significant differences between Canadian railways and those in Europe is that passenger trains in Canada typically run on diesel-electric or diesel. In contrast, those in Europe usually run on electricity, which is more eco-friendly.

Many international railways run on electricity, such as the Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia. Eurostar has a significant focus on sustainability. For instance, wind powers its Netherlands trains.

However, one major aspect that sets every country and its respective train lines apart is that each offers its own scenic experiences. What you'll see in Canada you won't see in Europe, and what you're viewing from a train in Europe you won't see in the United States.

Every train trip through Canada on the same line provides a distinct experience. The views are always transforming, with glimpses of different wildlife, weather, people, cars, boats, and other elements changing with each moment.

Luxury Train Services in Canada

As wonderful as it can be to take regular passenger trains, Canadian luxury train services are something everyone should experience.

In addition to the previously mentioned First Passage to the West trip by Rocky Mountaineer, two other Rocky Mountaineer options offer a perfect chance to see the Canadian landscape without having to worry about driving. The Journey through the Clouds trip runs between Vancouver and Jasper. Multiple packages are available at a variety of price points and lengths. Its Rainforest to Gold Rush trip also runs between Vancouver and Jasper and has a selection of packages. You can either start your voyage in Vancouver or Jasper. GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf services are available.

Prestige Class on VIA Rail’s Canadian train is another luxury train service in Canada. Travel between Vancouver and Toronto in a modern cabin with plush double bed, private shower, and concierge service.

Accessibility Features on Canadian Trains

Luxury train travel in Canada is available to everyone. Many accessibility features are in place, but there may be stipulations to be aware of before boarding. For example, scooters and wheelchairs on Rocky Mountaineer trains have to be able to be folded down.

VIA Rails has a fully accessible Prestige Cabin but passengers cannot easily move through the rest of the train.

Any passengers with concerns or questions about access on trains should contact the respective companies before booking a luxury package. Employees are always available to offer as much assistance as possible during luxury train travel vacations.

Rail Travel Tips and Etiquette

Train adventures through Canada can be an incredible experience, but as with every form of transportation, there are several travel tips to remember regarding etiquette.

The biggest and best tip is to be kind to all the passengers and employees. Everyone wants to enjoy the journey, and you can be an important part of that.
Another train etiquette tip in Canada is to be part of creating a streamlined process with boarding and getting off the train. For instance, make sure you board on time, don't push past people to get on or off the train, get to your correct seat as soon as you get on, get your luggage and put it away as quickly as possible, and don't expect that employees will hold the train if you're running late.
There may be quiet train cars, but even if there aren't, you should try and keep the noise level at a minimum. Always use earphones when playing movies on your electronic device during the trip, speaking on your cell phone, and playing music. Keep your voice low when talking to travel companions or other passengers.
You also want to make sure to leave the train as you found it. For example, don't throw garbage on the floor, and pick up anything you accidentally drop. This helps keep the environment clean and sanitary for everyone.

Seasonal Train Journeys

One of the best aspects of traveling through Canada by train is that there's always spectacular scenery outside your window. Many passengers consider the last half of the year the best time for train travel, thanks to the dramatic changes in the landscape. Autumn is all about the vibrant orange, yellow, and red hues as the foliage changes colors, and during winter, falling snow adds its own special magic.

Photography on Canadian Trains

It's impossible not to want to capture the scenery you see during your Canadian train trip. The gorgeous views are enough to inspire anyone.

One of the biggest issues train travelers might encounter is trying to photograph through the glass. Your best option is to put the lens as close to the glass (or on it) as possible. Consider moving throughout various parts of the train, whether you want to get pictures of the interior or just want to focus on getting landscape views.

Try to get pictures during different times of the day, such as during Golden Hour. You'll love how the light alters the landscape's look and even the train's interior.

If you're looking for excellent train photography tips, the best thing you can do is ask an employee. Chances are they can advise you about the best spaces on the train where you can go to get incredible pictures or can let you know what fantastic attractions might be coming up along the route that are worth photographing.

Before you leave for your train trip, consider practicing your photography skills in different settings and at various times of the day, such as at sunrise, at sunset, and while you're a passenger in a moving vehicle. It can be a great way to try different techniques and get to know your camera.

In Conclusion

Everyone should enjoy the gift of traveling through Canada by train, especially if it's a luxury travel adventure involving breaks at gorgeous hotels and food that tastes like it was made with love and knowledge that comes with years of culinary experience. Canada is exquisite from coast to coast, and with so many train travel options, you have plenty of chances to book trips to many areas of the country.

The best part is that the trips are for various durations, so you can choose the option you're most comfortable with at a price point within your budget. Make sure also to schedule your reservations as early as possible. Some trips are limited to a certain number of guests, and you want to be able to plan for your preferred date and package without any problems.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most luxurious train routes in Canada?

When it comes to luxury train travel in Canada, many consider the Rocky Mountaineer and Royal Canadian Pacific trains the pièce de résistance. Their routes offer a great opportunity to see some of the most beautiful Canadian landscapes.

How do I plan a trip on a Canadian luxury train?

The best thing you can do is plan your trip early. Before booking, read through every aspect of the luxury package you're considering, including its travel policies, so that you can make informed decisions.

What are the historical must-visit train stations in Canada?

Many historical train stations in Canada are worth the visit. We recommend browsing the "Heritage Railway Stations of Canada" page on the Government of Canada website for a filterable list of stations with special distinction under the Heritage Railway Stations Protection Act.

What Our Customers Say

Excellent overall rating based on 240 reviews

Fresh Tracks were very helpful in helping us plan and carry out our train trip across Canada

We thoroughly enjoyed seeing Canada from the east (Toronto) to the west (Vancouver) from the perspective of the trains. We also appreciated the quality of the food, the accommodati...

Richard and Carol

TN, USA

We loved every minute of our trip

We enjoyed all of our trip. The scenery up in the Rockies was amazing. The train journeys were superb, we were well looked after by nice people. The highlight for us was probably t...

Mike and Maureen

Aberdeen, Scotland

Everything went like clockwork

Everything went like clockwork. We especially appreciated the clear and complete instructions which were provided from Fresh Tracks. The Rocky Mountaineer was the highlight with it...

Charles and Kathryn

AZ, USA

A wonderful trip

Yesterday we reached Victoria after a wonderful trip you arranged for us from Toronto to Vancouver as part of our Canadian ocean-to-ocean excursion. We learned a lot and saw a lot...

Mary and Edwin

AZ, USA

Many, many wonderful memories

Many, many wonderful memories. Capilano Suspension Bridge, sleigh ride at Lake Louise, shopping in Banff, nature tour in Jasper and Banff, use of spas in the hotels in Vancouver, J...

Michael and Lucinda

PA, USA

Every arrangement you made was perfect

Anna and I arrived home last night wishing we had many more days to spend in your beautiful country. Every arrangement you made was perfect, from getting picked up at the Toronto a...

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Ron

CA, USA

We could not have asked for more!

I cannot thank you enough for the wonderful vacation that the two of you put together for us. From the very beginning you, Meaghan, seemed to sense exactly the kind of vacation tha...

Karen, Enrique and Celeste

TX, USA

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About the author: Athena McKenzie is the Content Manager at Fresh Tracks Canada. An experienced lifestyle journalist, she has written about travel, design, arts and entertainment. Her work has appeared in The Globe and Mail, Toronto Star, Zoomer Magazine, Elle Canada and... Read more

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