Winter Train Trips
Experience the wonder of the Canadian Snow Train
Canada is even more beautiful in the ice and snow — there's a certain magic to winter in this country. Imagine gliding through the frozen Canadian landscape on a snow train. Brilliant-white mountain peaks are framed by deep-blue skies. Icy forests of spruce and aspen line the tracks.
When the train stops, you can enjoy sleigh-rides, snowshoeing or simply relaxing by a crackling fire in your lodge.
WANT TO MAKE IT BETTER?


5 Perks of a Winter Train Trip
The deep blanket of snow transforms the landscape completely with dreamy winter vistas that are hushed and tranquil.
- There are fewer crowds: Enjoy a more laid-back, quieter experience traveling in winter, and the freedom to travel when you want with greater availability.
- The scenery looks amazing: The Canadian Rockies are stunning at any time of the year, but they look particularly magical covered in a blanket of shimmering snow.
- Cozy mountain lounges: After a day of exploring outside in the snow, there's nothing better than warming your rosy cheeks and cold toes by a roaring fire.
- You'll see the remote backcountry: Trains cut through parts of the frozen Canadian wilderness, where there are no roads or trails and the pristine snow is chest-deep.
- It's a truly authentic taste of life in Canada: The way Canadians deal with this long, cold season shapes their cultural identity. It's often said that you don't really understand Canada until you experience it in the winter.
EXPERIENCES
These are some suggested experiences for your Canadian adventure
Activities for your Winter Trip
Rather than hide from the snow and cold, Canadians embrace it by making the frozen wilderness their chilly playground.
- Dog Sledding: Glide swiftly across a frozen lake or through a silent, snow-laden forest pulled by a team of strong, beautiful huskies.
- Snowshoeing: It's so much easier to explore the remote winter backcountry when you can step nimbly across even the deepest drifts.
- Ice Skating: Go for a spin on Lake Louise or wind through the heart of downtown Ottawa on the frozen Rideau Canal.
- Hot Springs: Ease yourself slowly into the steamy, sulphur-scented waters of Banff Hot Springs and let your muscles completely relax.
- Maple Taffy Making: A quintessential Quebec treat, maple taffy is made with real French Canadian maple syrup, drizzled into a bank of fresh snow.
WEATHER
The winter weather in Canada is actually not as cold as you might think. Here's a quick look at the climate in three regions with very different environments.
Celebrate Winter in Canada
Canada comes alive at this time of year with festivals dedicated to celebrating the magic of the snowy season.
- Carnaval du Quebec: Watch the lights twinkle on the ice palace, dance to live music, see the elaborate floats in the night parade, and cheer on the Ice Canoe Race.
- Winterlude: One of the biggest events in Ottawa, this is a joyous, bombastic celebration that includes live music, dancing, and an ice-carving competition.
- Lake Louise Ice Magic Festival: Every year expert chainsaw-wielding ice carvers gather to hew shimmering works of art from towering 300lb blocks of solid ice.
- World Ski & Snowboard Festival: The best skiers and snowboarders come from all over the world to compete in this 10 day festival in the alpine village of Whistler, BC.
Recommended Winter Train Trips
True NorthNEWSLETTER
Sign up for vacation inspiration, insider tips, exclusive offers and more.