The Best Rocky Mountaineer Trips

GoldLeaf service on the Rocky Mountaineer train connects Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies. The train runs by daylight and operates from mid-April to mid-October. Prestige class sleeper service on VIA Rail Canadian train operates year-round and you can travel all the way from Vancouver to Toronto or vice-versa. Both luxury train services provide spectacular views and optimal photo opportunities.

The rail portion of your trip can come before or after your Alaska cruise. There are two types of cruise ships to choose from: a larger, more luxurious vessel or a smaller ship that allows you to visit more coves and inlets. Each type of ship has its advantages and it depends on your style of travel and what you want to get out of your Alaska cruise adventure.

This route traverses the later of the two main Canadian trans-continental railways: The Canadian Northern Line, which dates back to 1917. It travels between Jasper and Vancouver, taking the breathtaking Yellowhead pass through the mountains. The highlight of the trip is the view of snow-covered Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies.

This route connects North Vancouver and Jasper, with stops in Whistler and Quesnel. It was previously known as the "Fraser Discovery Route" and the focus is on discovering British Columbia's wild timber country and Gold Rush history. The train passes through the Fraser River Canyon and it's not uncommon to spot black bears, bald eagles, ospreys and even grizzly bears.

Jasper is the gentle giant of the Rockies and this small mountain town offers visitors a more laid-back mountain experience – with equal options for adventure, discovery and relaxation.

The townsite of Banff, established in 1885, is the hub of Banff National Park. A lively mountain town with great restaurants, Banff is a welcome change of pace. Enjoy strolling Banff Avenue or try one of the numerous outdoor adventures offered in this outdoor playground. Banff was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for the mountain peaks, glaciers, lakes, and waterfalls.

The quaint hamlet in the heart of the Rockies is named after the nearby lake. Known for its sparkling turquoise blue waters and impressive glacier-clad peaks, Lake Louise offers a surreal paddling experience in the warm summer months and one of the most scenic skating rinks in the world in winter.

Celebrated for its incredible skiing, this bustling resort town has plenty to see and do all year round. Take the Peak 2 Peak Gondola high up into the mountains, spend the day at the spa or on the golf course, and in the evening enjoy fine food and wines at one of the many world class restaurants. Whistler has something for everyone.

The Shuswap First Nation set up camp here many centuries ago, as the many rivers and lakes were abundant with salmon. These days, this pleasant town is a lively place to stop on the way during your Rocky Mountaineer (depending on which route you take).

The other option for where to spend the night while on the Rocky Mountaineer. Located directly between Williams Lake and Prince George, it is one of the main stopping off points on the route through British Columbia to the Yukon. Quesnel is a popular destination for nature lovers, as it provides access to some truly legendary canoeing, hiking and fishing.