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VIA Rail vs. Rocky Mountaineer Train

Published Mar 25, 2025

9 min read

Canada’s vast landscapes are best explored by train, and two major rail services make it possible: VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer. But which one is right for you? Or do you pick an itinerary that has both? Understanding the key differences between these two iconic train services can help you choose the best fit for your dream train vacation. Our travel experts have put together this guide to help you.

Quick Summary

VIA Rail is Canada’s passenger train service, connecting the country from coast to coast, while Rocky Mountaineer is a day-time sightseeing train in Western Canada. While both offer luxury service levels, VIA Rail also has different service levels. VIA Rail has routes across the country. Rocky Mountaineer’s Canadian routes are in the Rockies.

Table of contents

Train vacations in Canada
Overview: VIA Rail Vs. Rocky Mountaineer Train
Best-selling Train Trips Featuring VIA Rail & Rocky Mountaineer
VIA Rail
Best-selling VIA Rail Train Trips in 2025-26
About Rocky Mountaineer
Best-selling Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips in 2025-26
Scenic Canadian Routes
Key Differences in Route Coverage
Onboard Amenities and Services
Key Differences in Onboard Experience
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions

Train vacations in Canada

Rocky Mountaineer travelling across Stoney Creek Bridge on the First Passage to the West Route

The travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations by Fresh Tracks Canada specialize in rail, helping independent travellers create personalized vacation itineraries. Every detail is taken care of, from train tickets, hotels, and transfers to sightseeing excursions.

In this guide, we’ll compare VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer in terms of service levels, routes, onboard experiences, and more. Whether you're looking for an immersive cross-country trip or a luxury rail tour in the Canadian Rockies, our local experts will ensure you make the best choice for your journey.

Difference between VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer

Feature	VIA Rail	Rocky Mountaineer
Service Type	Scenic day-time and sleeper train journeys across Canada	Scenic day-time train journeys through the Canadian Rockies
Best For	Travellers looking for immersive sleeper-train experience	Travellers seeking a luxury sightseeing train journey
Classes of Service	Economy, Business, Sleeper Plus, Prestige Class	SilverLeaf, GoldLeaf
Overnight Accommodations	Sleeper cabins on long-distance routes (The Canadian and The Ocean)	No accommodations on board —overnight stays in hotels
Meals	Included in Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class	Gourmet meals served onboard in all classes
Observation Cars	Dome cars and panoramic windows on select routes	Glass-dome coaches on every route
Key Scenic Routes	The Canadian (Toronto–Vancouver), The Ocean (Montréal–Halifax), The Corridor (Québec–Toronto)	First Passage to the West, Journey Through the Clouds, Rainforest to Gold Rush (all connect British Columbia and Alberta through the Rockies)
Availability	Operates year-round	April to October

Insider Tip #1: Choose Your Cabin or Seat Wisely
If you’re on VIA Rail’s The Canadian, we recommend booking a Sleeper Plus Cabin for One or Two, for added privacy and comfort on multi-day trips. On Rocky Mountaineer, GoldLeaf Service upstairs' glass-domed car offers amazing panoramic views.

Athena McKenzie
Content Manager

Best-selling Train Trips Featuring VIA Rail & Rocky Mountaineer

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

Find out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. Our brochures are here to help.

Explore our brochures

What is VIA Rail?

VIA Rail(1) is Canada’s national passenger rail service, connecting cities and regions from coast to coast. Operating since 1977, VIA Rail provides an essential transportation network across Canada, offering both long-distance and regional routes. Whether you’re looking for an iconic cross-country journey or a practical way to travel between major cities, VIA Rail offers a diverse range of services to suit different travel needs.

VIA Rail Canadian train travelling past mountains and trees, with grassy field in the foreground

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VIA Rail's Canadian train

VIA Rail's major sleeper train, The Canadian, travels through the Rockies on its route between Toronto and Vancouver

VIA Rail's Ocean is a sleeper train that runs between Montreal and Halifax

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VIA Rail's The Ocean train

The Ocean is a sleeper train that runs the scenic route between Montreal and Halifax

VIA Rail's Corridor train in the Fall season

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VIA Rail Corridor train

VIA Rail's Corridor trains connect major cities in Eastern Canada, such as Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto.

A view inside one of VIA's dining cars inside The Canadian train

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The dining car on The Canadian

Gourmet meals are served in the train's classic dining car.

Passengers sit in Prestige Park car onboard VIA Rail's train, The Canadian, as it travels past snowy landscape in the Canadian Rocky Mountains from dome windows

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The viewing dome in The Canadian's Prestige Park Car

Prestige guests have reserved seating in the glass-domed upper level of the Park Car.

Prestige luxury train cabin with double bed facing a window

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The Prestige cabin on The Canadian

Prestige cabins, only available on the Canadian, offer a full-sized bed with luxurious linens and a private shower.

VIA Rail: Classic Train Travel with a Touch of Luxury

VIA Rail offers a blend of classic rail travel and modern comfort, making it an excellent choice for those who want to experience Canada’s landscapes in a relaxed and immersive way. From affordable economy fares to luxury Prestige Class accommodations, VIA Rail caters to a wide range of travellers.

Prestige Class: VIA Rail’s Luxury Experience – Available on The Canadian, Prestige Class offers spacious cabins with private washrooms, a dedicated concierge, priority boarding, and gourmet meals, along with an exclusive Prestige lounge and panoramic views from a private window seat.
Overnight Sleeper Trains – Sleeper Plus class provides comfortable cabins with meals and access to dome cars for a scenic and restful journey.
Panoramic Dome Cars – Passengers in Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class can enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Rockies, prairies, and Canadian Shield from glass-domed observation cars.
Dining & Lounge Services – VIA Rail’s dining cars serve chef-prepared regional cuisine, while lounge areas provide space to relax, socialize, and take in the views.

VIA Rail Services & Routes

Long-Distance Rail Journeys – The Canadian (between Toronto and Vancouver) and The Ocean (between Montreal and Halifax) offer classic overnight rail experiences with sleeper cabins and dining services.
Regional Corridor Route – Frequent trains between Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa, and Toronto make up the busiest rail network in Canada.
Remote and Northern Travel – Essential routes serve smaller communities, including Jasper, Manitoba’s north, and Churchill.

Who Travels with VIA Rail?

Scenic travellers looking for an immersive way to see Canada’s landscapes.
Commuters and business travellers using the efficient Quebec-Windsor corridor.
Adventure seekers heading to remote destinations like Churchill.
Budget-conscious travellers taking advantage of VIA Rail’s affordable fare levels

Best-selling VIA Rail Train Trips in 2025-26

What is Rocky Mountaineer?

Rocky Mountaineer(2) is a luxury train experience that offers scenic, daylight-only rail journeys through Western Canada’s most breathtaking landscapes. Unlike traditional rail travel, meant to get passengers from point A to point B, Rocky Mountaineer focuses on immersive scenic routes and luxurious onboard experiences, making it one of the world’s premier luxury train operators.

The Rocky Mountaineer in the Canadian Rockies during the fall

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Rocky Mountaineer's scenic journeys in the Rockies

The Rocky Mountaineer connects Alberta and British Columbia with three scenic routes through the Canadian Rockies

Rocky Mountaineer onboard Host gives welcome toast in GoldLeaf dome as guests cheers.

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GoldLeaf service on Rocky Mountaineer

The upper level on GoldLeaf has a full glass dome for optimal sightseeing

Two couples enjoying breakfast together in Rocky Mountaineer's GoldLeaf dining room

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Dining in GoldLeaf

The lower level on a GoldLeaf coach is the dining room offering gourmet freshly prepared meals

Rocky Mountaineer guests enjoying the view from the SilverLeaf coach

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SilverLeaf service on Rocky Mountaineer

The single-level SilverLeaf coaches have over-sized glass-domed windows

Chef serving breakfast seat side in the SilverLeaf coach of the Rocky Mountaineer train

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Dining in SilverLeaf

Gourmet meals are served seat side in SilverLeaf

Luxury Train Travel with a View

Daylight-Only Journeys – Unlike VIA Rail’s overnight trains, Rocky Mountaineer runs exclusively during daylight hours to ensure passengers never miss a single mountain view.
Glass-Dome Coaches – Panoramic windows and outdoor viewing platforms allow for unobstructed views of the Canadian Rockies, glacier-fed lakes, and deep canyons.
Gourmet Cuisine – Regionally inspired meals, prepared by onboard chefs, showcase the best of Canadian ingredients and flavours.
High-End Service – Dedicated hosts provide storytelling and personalized service throughout the journey.

Rocky Mountaineer Routes & Itineraries

Rocky Mountaineer operates several rail routes through Canada’s most scenic regions:

First Passage to the West – between Vancouver and Banff, travelling through historic rail tunnels and past stunning mountain vistas.
Journey Through the Clouds – between Vancouver and Jasper, featuring highlights like Pyramid Falls and Mount Robson.
Rainforest to Gold Rush – between Vancouver and Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel, offering a mix of coastal rainforest and Cariboo gold rush history.

Who Travels with Rocky Mountaineer?

Luxury travellers looking for a premium rail experience with gourmet dining and five-star service.
Scenic explorers who want to experience the beauty of the Canadian Rockies without the hassle of driving.
Cruise passengers who combine their train journey with an Alaska cruise for an extended, seamless vacation.

Best-selling Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips in 2025-26

Route Coverage and Scenic Destinations

Both VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer showcase Canada’s incredible landscapes, but their route networks and travel experiences differ significantly. VIA Rail spans the entire country, offering a mix of practical and scenic journeys, while Rocky Mountaineer focuses on curated luxury train tours through the Canadian Rockies.

VIA Rail: Coast-to-Coast Exploration

VIA Rail connects Canada’s major cities, remote towns, and scenic regions, making it the best option for travellers looking for diversity in destinations and an immersive, multi-day journey.

Cross-Country Route: The Canadian – Toronto to Vancouver (4 nights)

Scenic Highlights: Rocky Mountains, Fraser River Valley, Jasper National Park, the vast Prairies, the Canadian Shield

Eastern Canada: The Ocean – Montreal to Halifax (1 night)

Scenic Highlights: Gulf of St. Lawrence, rolling farmlands, coastal cliffs

Quebec-Windsor Corridor – Frequent service between Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec City

Scenic Highlights: St. Lawrence River, historic cities

Remote & Northern Routes – Service to Churchill (Manitoba), Jasper (Alberta), and Northern Quebec

Scenic Highlights: Boreal forests, tundra landscapes, Churchill polar bear country

Rocky Mountaineer: Luxury Through the Rockies

Rocky Mountaineer offers daylight-only luxury train journeys through Western Canada’s most breathtaking mountain landscapes. With no overnight stays on board, travellers overnight in hotels along the route, allowing for a relaxed and scenic experience.

First Passage to the West – Vancouver to Banff (2 days)

Scenic Highlights: Fraser Canyon’s Hell’s Gate, Spiral Tunnels, Castle Mountain

Journey Through the Clouds – Vancouver to Jasper (2 days)

Scenic Highlights: Pyramid Falls, Mount Robson (tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies)

Rainforest to Gold Rush – Vancouver to Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel (3 days)

Scenic Highlights: Coastal rainforest, Cariboo Mountains, Fraser River Valley

Rockies to the Red Rocks (USA) – Denver to Moab (2 days)

Scenic Highlights: Ruby Canyon, Colorado River, red rock formations

Key Differences in Route Coverage

Feature	VIA Rail	Rocky Mountaineer
National Coverage	Yes, coast-to-coast	No, focused on Western Canada
Overnight Onboard	Yes, sleeper cabins available	No, hotels included instead
Luxury Service	Yes, Prestige Class on The Canadian	Yes, both SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf Service are considered luxury
Daylight-Only Travel	No, runs overnight on long routes	Yes, all routes run during daylight

Insider Tip #2: Ride more than one train
Consider combining multiple train routes and experiences on your trip across Canada. One of my favourite options is taking Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies, then riding VIA Rail's The Canadian from Jasper to Toronto.

Louise Weiss
Director of Legendary Hospitality

Onboard Amenities and Services

The onboard experience is a major factor when choosing between VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer. While both offer comfortable seating, scenic views, and dining services, VIA Rail provides sleeper cabins for long-haul travel, whereas Rocky Mountaineer focuses on a high-end, all-daylight luxury experience.

VIA Rail: Comfort for Every Traveller

VIA Rail offers a range of seating and service classes, catering to budget travellers, long-haul adventurers, and luxury seekers.

Seating & Accommodations

Prestige Class (The Canadian) – Ultimate luxury with private cabins, large double beds, ensuite showers, personalized concierge service, and access to exclusive Prestige lounges
Sleeper Plus Class (Overnight trains) – Private cabins with beds, meals included, access to lounges
Business Class (Corridor routes) – Extra legroom, priority boarding, complimentary meals
Economy Class – Spacious reclining seats, panoramic windows, access to a café car.

Dining Options

Sleeper Plus – Gourmet chef-prepared meals served in a dining car
Prestige Class – Exclusive fine dining with premium wine pairings

Unique Onboard Features

Panoramic Viewing Cars – Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class guests can access glass-dome observation cars for 360° views
Lounges & Social Spaces – Sleeper and Prestige guests enjoy access to exclusive lounge areas
Best for: Travellers who want flexibility, overnight accommodations, and a variety of price points, including affordable economy travel and Prestige luxury service.

Rocky Mountaineer: A Five-Star Rail Experience

Rocky Mountaineer is designed for luxury train travel, offering spacious, glass-domed coaches, world-class service, and gourmet cuisine.

Seating & Service Classes

SilverLeaf Service –

Single-level glass-dome coach with panoramic windows
Spacious reclining seats and meal service at your seat
Outdoor viewing platform

GoldLeaf Service –

Two-level glass-dome coach with a full glass ceiling
Gourmet meals served in an exclusive lower-level dining area
Large outdoor viewing platform for taking in the fresh mountain air

Dining Options

SilverLeaf – Hot meals served at your seat, made with locally sourced ingredients
GoldLeaf – Multi-course gourmet meals prepared by executive chefs, served in an elegant dining car

Unique Onboard Features

All-Daylight Travel – No overnight stays on the train; guests stay in luxury hotels along the route
Live Storytelling & Concierge Service – Onboard hosts provide commentary on history, wildlife, and scenic highlights
Expansive Viewing Platforms – Larger outdoor decks allow for breathtaking photo opportunities
Best for: Travellers who prefer a luxury sightseeing experience, want five-star service, and don’t need overnight accommodations on the train.

Key Differences in Onboard Experience

Feature	VIA Rail	Rocky Mountaineer
Overnight Accommodations	Yes, sleeper cabins & Prestige Class	No, hotel stays instead
Luxury Class Option	Yes, Prestige Class on The Canadian	Yes, GoldLeaf Service
Panoramic Viewing Cars	Yes, dome cars on long-haul trains	Yes, glass-dome coaches
Dining Experience	Gourmet meals in Sleeper/Prestige classes	Multi-course gourmet meals included
Live Commentary	No, self-guided experience	Yes, hosts provide storytelling
Outdoor Viewing Areas	Limited to dome cars	Large outdoor viewing platforms

Both train services offer a comfortable and scenic experience, but VIA Rail is ideal for cross-country travel with overnight options, while Rocky Mountaineer provides an exclusive luxury sightseeing journey through the Rockies.

Conclusion and Final Recommendations

Choosing between VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer depends on the kind of experience you are looking for. Both offer stunning scenic journeys, but they cater to different styles of travel—one emphasizing cross-country exploration and flexibility, the other focusing on luxury and curated sightseeing.

VIA Rail: Best for Classic Train Travel and Overnight Journeys

Offers coast-to-coast connectivity, from major cities to remote northern towns.
Provides a range of seating options, from budget-friendly Economy to the luxurious Prestige Class.
Ideal for travellers seeking an immersive multi-day adventure, with sleeper cabins and dining cars available on long routes.
A great choice for flexibility, whether you are commuting between cities or embarking on a bucket-list cross-country trip.

Rocky Mountaineer: Best for Luxury and Scenic Daylight Travel

Focuses on Western Canada’s most breathtaking landscapes, with routes through the Rockies and beyond.
Delivers a five-star experience, with glass-dome coaches, gourmet dining, and dedicated hosts providing live storytelling.
Operates daylight-only journeys, ensuring passengers never miss a scenic highlight.
Perfect for those who want luxury accommodations and curated experiences without overnight train travel.

Take the Next Step in Your Train Adventure

Whether you are dreaming of a grand rail journey across Canada or a luxury trip through the Rocky Mountains, both VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer offer unforgettable train travel experiences. Talk to our Canadian Insiders about planning your dream train vacation in Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more expensive: VIA Rail or Rocky Mountaineer?

Rocky Mountaineer is generally more expensive because it is a luxury train experience with gourmet meals, high-end service, and premium accommodations. VIA Rail, on the other hand, offers a range of pricing options, from affordable economy seating to luxury Prestige Class cabins on The Canadian. If budget is a key factor, VIA Rail provides more flexibility, while Rocky Mountaineer is a premium-priced, all-inclusive experience.

Which offers better scenery?

Both services showcase Canada’s breathtaking landscapes, but the choice depends on what kind of scenery you want to experience:

VIA Rail – Offers a variety of landscapes, including the Canadian Shield, the Prairies, the Rocky Mountains, coastal regions, and remote northern landscapes. On The Canadian, passengers travel through Jasper National Park and the Fraser Valley, with access to panoramic dome cars.
Rocky Mountaineer – Focuses exclusively on daylight travel through the Canadian Rockies, ensuring passengers get uninterrupted views of glaciers, waterfalls, deep canyons, and mountain peaks.

Can I book both services in one trip?

Yes! Many travellers combine VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer for a comprehensive rail experience. Booking both trains in one trip allows for a mix of classic rail travel and luxury sightseeing. Canadian Train Vacations by Fresh Tracks Canada can help you customize an itinerary that includes both services.

For example, on our Across Canada by Train itinerary, you can take VIA Rail’s The Canadian from Toronto to Jasper, then switch to Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West to Vancouver.

Are there family-friendly or group travel options?

Yes, both VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer offer options for families and groups, but they cater to different styles of travel:

VIA Rail – A great choice for families, with private sleeper cabins, and flexible booking options for groups.
Rocky Mountaineer – Best suited for multi-generational family trips with older children. The SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf services offer comfortable seating, gourmet dining, and shared luxury experiences. There are no seperate play areas or private spaces for families.

Ask one of our travel advisors about a customized itineraries on these train services.

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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VIA Rail vs. Rocky Mountaineer Train

Published Mar 25, 2025

9 min read

Quick Summary

Table of contents

Train vacations in Canada
Overview: VIA Rail Vs. Rocky Mountaineer Train
Best-selling Train Trips Featuring VIA Rail & Rocky Mountaineer
VIA Rail
Best-selling VIA Rail Train Trips in 2025-26
About Rocky Mountaineer
Best-selling Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips in 2025-26
Scenic Canadian Routes
Key Differences in Route Coverage
Onboard Amenities and Services
Key Differences in Onboard Experience
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions

Train vacations in Canada

Difference between VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer

Feature	VIA Rail	Rocky Mountaineer
Service Type	Scenic day-time and sleeper train journeys across Canada	Scenic day-time train journeys through the Canadian Rockies
Best For	Travellers looking for immersive sleeper-train experience	Travellers seeking a luxury sightseeing train journey
Classes of Service	Economy, Business, Sleeper Plus, Prestige Class	SilverLeaf, GoldLeaf
Overnight Accommodations	Sleeper cabins on long-distance routes (The Canadian and The Ocean)	No accommodations on board —overnight stays in hotels
Meals	Included in Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class	Gourmet meals served onboard in all classes
Observation Cars	Dome cars and panoramic windows on select routes	Glass-dome coaches on every route
Key Scenic Routes	The Canadian (Toronto–Vancouver), The Ocean (Montréal–Halifax), The Corridor (Québec–Toronto)	First Passage to the West, Journey Through the Clouds, Rainforest to Gold Rush (all connect British Columbia and Alberta through the Rockies)
Availability	Operates year-round	April to October

Insider Tip #1: Choose Your Cabin or Seat Wisely
If you’re on VIA Rail’s The Canadian, we recommend booking a Sleeper Plus Cabin for One or Two, for added privacy and comfort on multi-day trips. On Rocky Mountaineer, GoldLeaf Service upstairs' glass-domed car offers amazing panoramic views.

Athena McKenzie
Content Manager

Best-selling Train Trips Featuring VIA Rail & Rocky Mountaineer

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

Find out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. Our brochures are here to help.

Explore our brochures

What is VIA Rail?

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VIA Rail's Canadian train

VIA Rail's major sleeper train, The Canadian, travels through the Rockies on its route between Toronto and Vancouver

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VIA Rail's The Ocean train

The Ocean is a sleeper train that runs the scenic route between Montreal and Halifax

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VIA Rail Corridor train

VIA Rail's Corridor trains connect major cities in Eastern Canada, such as Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto.

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The dining car on The Canadian

Gourmet meals are served in the train's classic dining car.

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The viewing dome in The Canadian's Prestige Park Car

Prestige guests have reserved seating in the glass-domed upper level of the Park Car.

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The Prestige cabin on The Canadian

Prestige cabins, only available on the Canadian, offer a full-sized bed with luxurious linens and a private shower.

VIA Rail: Classic Train Travel with a Touch of Luxury

Prestige Class: VIA Rail’s Luxury Experience – Available on The Canadian, Prestige Class offers spacious cabins with private washrooms, a dedicated concierge, priority boarding, and gourmet meals, along with an exclusive Prestige lounge and panoramic views from a private window seat.
Overnight Sleeper Trains – Sleeper Plus class provides comfortable cabins with meals and access to dome cars for a scenic and restful journey.
Panoramic Dome Cars – Passengers in Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class can enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Rockies, prairies, and Canadian Shield from glass-domed observation cars.
Dining & Lounge Services – VIA Rail’s dining cars serve chef-prepared regional cuisine, while lounge areas provide space to relax, socialize, and take in the views.

VIA Rail Services & Routes

Long-Distance Rail Journeys – The Canadian (between Toronto and Vancouver) and The Ocean (between Montreal and Halifax) offer classic overnight rail experiences with sleeper cabins and dining services.
Regional Corridor Route – Frequent trains between Quebec City, Montreal, Ottawa, and Toronto make up the busiest rail network in Canada.
Remote and Northern Travel – Essential routes serve smaller communities, including Jasper, Manitoba’s north, and Churchill.

Who Travels with VIA Rail?

Scenic travellers looking for an immersive way to see Canada’s landscapes.
Commuters and business travellers using the efficient Quebec-Windsor corridor.
Adventure seekers heading to remote destinations like Churchill.
Budget-conscious travellers taking advantage of VIA Rail’s affordable fare levels

Best-selling VIA Rail Train Trips in 2025-26

What is Rocky Mountaineer?

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Rocky Mountaineer's scenic journeys in the Rockies

The Rocky Mountaineer connects Alberta and British Columbia with three scenic routes through the Canadian Rockies

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GoldLeaf service on Rocky Mountaineer

The upper level on GoldLeaf has a full glass dome for optimal sightseeing

3 of 5

Dining in GoldLeaf

The lower level on a GoldLeaf coach is the dining room offering gourmet freshly prepared meals

4 of 5

SilverLeaf service on Rocky Mountaineer

The single-level SilverLeaf coaches have over-sized glass-domed windows

5 of 5

Dining in SilverLeaf

Gourmet meals are served seat side in SilverLeaf

Luxury Train Travel with a View

Daylight-Only Journeys – Unlike VIA Rail’s overnight trains, Rocky Mountaineer runs exclusively during daylight hours to ensure passengers never miss a single mountain view.
Glass-Dome Coaches – Panoramic windows and outdoor viewing platforms allow for unobstructed views of the Canadian Rockies, glacier-fed lakes, and deep canyons.
Gourmet Cuisine – Regionally inspired meals, prepared by onboard chefs, showcase the best of Canadian ingredients and flavours.
High-End Service – Dedicated hosts provide storytelling and personalized service throughout the journey.

Rocky Mountaineer Routes & Itineraries

Rocky Mountaineer operates several rail routes through Canada’s most scenic regions:

First Passage to the West – between Vancouver and Banff, travelling through historic rail tunnels and past stunning mountain vistas.
Journey Through the Clouds – between Vancouver and Jasper, featuring highlights like Pyramid Falls and Mount Robson.
Rainforest to Gold Rush – between Vancouver and Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel, offering a mix of coastal rainforest and Cariboo gold rush history.

Who Travels with Rocky Mountaineer?

Luxury travellers looking for a premium rail experience with gourmet dining and five-star service.
Scenic explorers who want to experience the beauty of the Canadian Rockies without the hassle of driving.
Cruise passengers who combine their train journey with an Alaska cruise for an extended, seamless vacation.

Best-selling Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips in 2025-26

Route Coverage and Scenic Destinations

VIA Rail: Coast-to-Coast Exploration

VIA Rail connects Canada’s major cities, remote towns, and scenic regions, making it the best option for travellers looking for diversity in destinations and an immersive, multi-day journey.

Cross-Country Route: The Canadian – Toronto to Vancouver (4 nights)

Scenic Highlights: Rocky Mountains, Fraser River Valley, Jasper National Park, the vast Prairies, the Canadian Shield

Eastern Canada: The Ocean – Montreal to Halifax (1 night)

Scenic Highlights: Gulf of St. Lawrence, rolling farmlands, coastal cliffs

Quebec-Windsor Corridor – Frequent service between Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec City

Scenic Highlights: St. Lawrence River, historic cities

Remote & Northern Routes – Service to Churchill (Manitoba), Jasper (Alberta), and Northern Quebec

Scenic Highlights: Boreal forests, tundra landscapes, Churchill polar bear country

Rocky Mountaineer: Luxury Through the Rockies

First Passage to the West – Vancouver to Banff (2 days)

Scenic Highlights: Fraser Canyon’s Hell’s Gate, Spiral Tunnels, Castle Mountain

Journey Through the Clouds – Vancouver to Jasper (2 days)

Scenic Highlights: Pyramid Falls, Mount Robson (tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies)

Rainforest to Gold Rush – Vancouver to Jasper via Whistler and Quesnel (3 days)

Scenic Highlights: Coastal rainforest, Cariboo Mountains, Fraser River Valley

Rockies to the Red Rocks (USA) – Denver to Moab (2 days)

Scenic Highlights: Ruby Canyon, Colorado River, red rock formations

Key Differences in Route Coverage

Feature	VIA Rail	Rocky Mountaineer
National Coverage	Yes, coast-to-coast	No, focused on Western Canada
Overnight Onboard	Yes, sleeper cabins available	No, hotels included instead
Luxury Service	Yes, Prestige Class on The Canadian	Yes, both SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf Service are considered luxury
Daylight-Only Travel	No, runs overnight on long routes	Yes, all routes run during daylight

Insider Tip #2: Ride more than one train
Consider combining multiple train routes and experiences on your trip across Canada. One of my favourite options is taking Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies, then riding VIA Rail's The Canadian from Jasper to Toronto.

Louise Weiss
Director of Legendary Hospitality

Onboard Amenities and Services

VIA Rail: Comfort for Every Traveller

VIA Rail offers a range of seating and service classes, catering to budget travellers, long-haul adventurers, and luxury seekers.

Seating & Accommodations

Prestige Class (The Canadian) – Ultimate luxury with private cabins, large double beds, ensuite showers, personalized concierge service, and access to exclusive Prestige lounges
Sleeper Plus Class (Overnight trains) – Private cabins with beds, meals included, access to lounges
Business Class (Corridor routes) – Extra legroom, priority boarding, complimentary meals
Economy Class – Spacious reclining seats, panoramic windows, access to a café car.

Dining Options

Sleeper Plus – Gourmet chef-prepared meals served in a dining car
Prestige Class – Exclusive fine dining with premium wine pairings

Unique Onboard Features

Panoramic Viewing Cars – Sleeper Plus and Prestige Class guests can access glass-dome observation cars for 360° views
Lounges & Social Spaces – Sleeper and Prestige guests enjoy access to exclusive lounge areas
Best for: Travellers who want flexibility, overnight accommodations, and a variety of price points, including affordable economy travel and Prestige luxury service.

Rocky Mountaineer: A Five-Star Rail Experience

Rocky Mountaineer is designed for luxury train travel, offering spacious, glass-domed coaches, world-class service, and gourmet cuisine.

Seating & Service Classes

SilverLeaf Service –

Single-level glass-dome coach with panoramic windows
Spacious reclining seats and meal service at your seat
Outdoor viewing platform

GoldLeaf Service –

Two-level glass-dome coach with a full glass ceiling
Gourmet meals served in an exclusive lower-level dining area
Large outdoor viewing platform for taking in the fresh mountain air

Dining Options

SilverLeaf – Hot meals served at your seat, made with locally sourced ingredients
GoldLeaf – Multi-course gourmet meals prepared by executive chefs, served in an elegant dining car

Unique Onboard Features

All-Daylight Travel – No overnight stays on the train; guests stay in luxury hotels along the route
Live Storytelling & Concierge Service – Onboard hosts provide commentary on history, wildlife, and scenic highlights
Expansive Viewing Platforms – Larger outdoor decks allow for breathtaking photo opportunities
Best for: Travellers who prefer a luxury sightseeing experience, want five-star service, and don’t need overnight accommodations on the train.

Key Differences in Onboard Experience

Feature	VIA Rail	Rocky Mountaineer
Overnight Accommodations	Yes, sleeper cabins & Prestige Class	No, hotel stays instead
Luxury Class Option	Yes, Prestige Class on The Canadian	Yes, GoldLeaf Service
Panoramic Viewing Cars	Yes, dome cars on long-haul trains	Yes, glass-dome coaches
Dining Experience	Gourmet meals in Sleeper/Prestige classes	Multi-course gourmet meals included
Live Commentary	No, self-guided experience	Yes, hosts provide storytelling
Outdoor Viewing Areas	Limited to dome cars	Large outdoor viewing platforms

Conclusion and Final Recommendations

VIA Rail: Best for Classic Train Travel and Overnight Journeys

Offers coast-to-coast connectivity, from major cities to remote northern towns.
Provides a range of seating options, from budget-friendly Economy to the luxurious Prestige Class.
Ideal for travellers seeking an immersive multi-day adventure, with sleeper cabins and dining cars available on long routes.
A great choice for flexibility, whether you are commuting between cities or embarking on a bucket-list cross-country trip.

Rocky Mountaineer: Best for Luxury and Scenic Daylight Travel

Focuses on Western Canada’s most breathtaking landscapes, with routes through the Rockies and beyond.
Delivers a five-star experience, with glass-dome coaches, gourmet dining, and dedicated hosts providing live storytelling.
Operates daylight-only journeys, ensuring passengers never miss a scenic highlight.
Perfect for those who want luxury accommodations and curated experiences without overnight train travel.

Take the Next Step in Your Train Adventure

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is more expensive: VIA Rail or Rocky Mountaineer?

Which offers better scenery?

Both services showcase Canada’s breathtaking landscapes, but the choice depends on what kind of scenery you want to experience:

VIA Rail – Offers a variety of landscapes, including the Canadian Shield, the Prairies, the Rocky Mountains, coastal regions, and remote northern landscapes. On The Canadian, passengers travel through Jasper National Park and the Fraser Valley, with access to panoramic dome cars.
Rocky Mountaineer – Focuses exclusively on daylight travel through the Canadian Rockies, ensuring passengers get uninterrupted views of glaciers, waterfalls, deep canyons, and mountain peaks.

Can I book both services in one trip?

For example, on our Across Canada by Train itinerary, you can take VIA Rail’s The Canadian from Toronto to Jasper, then switch to Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West to Vancouver.

Are there family-friendly or group travel options?

Yes, both VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer offer options for families and groups, but they cater to different styles of travel:

VIA Rail – A great choice for families, with private sleeper cabins, and flexible booking options for groups.
Rocky Mountaineer – Best suited for multi-generational family trips with older children. The SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf services offer comfortable seating, gourmet dining, and shared luxury experiences. There are no seperate play areas or private spaces for families.

Ask one of our travel advisors about a customized itineraries on these train services.

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