What is the Journey through the Clouds rail route?

Journey through the Clouds is Rocky Mountaineer’s two-day rail route between Vancouver and Jasper, travelling approximately 900 km (560 miles) through remote Western Canadian landscapes. Each rail day includes 10 to 14 hours of daylight travel, with an overnight stay in Kamloops.

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The Rocky Mountaineer train passing Pyramid Falls on the Journey Through the Clouds route.

At a glance

2 days

of daylight rail travel between Vancouver and Jasper, with an overnight hotel stay in Kamloops.

901 kilometres

(559 miles) of spectacular scenery in Western Canada.

10 to 14 hours

onboard each rail day, with Rocky Mountaineer travelling during daylight hours so you can make the most of the scenery.

From $7,130 CAD

per person for a personalized train vacation featuring Journey Through the Clouds, along with hotels, transfers and sightseeing experiences.

Speak to a local travel expert

About Rocky Mountaineer

For over three decades, the Rocky Mountaineer has been redefining luxury train travel in Canada, creating an experience that goes far beyond simply getting from one place to another. Established in 1990, the company was founded on the idea of showcasing Canada’s most remarkable landscapes in a way that allows guests to relax and savour every moment. 

Key features that set the Rocky Mountaineer apart include: 

  • Glass-dome train coaches: Offering unobstructed, panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, these glass-domed coaches create the feeling of being fully immersed in nature. 

  • World-class service: Attentive hosts provide commentary, serve gourmet meals, and anticipate your every need, ensuring the journey is both comfortable and enriching. 

  • Award-winning reputation: With numerous accolades, the Rocky Mountaineer has been recognized as one of the world’s best train journeys.

What is the Vancouver to Jasper route?

The Vancouver to Jasper train on the Journey through the Clouds route travels through remarkably varied landscapes over two days. From Vancouver, Rocky Mountaineer crosses the lush Fraser Valley before following the Fraser River through the dramatic Fraser Canyon and past Hell’s Gate. The landscape becomes drier as you approach Kamloops, where you spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

On the second rail day, the train follows the North Thompson River, as semi-arid terrain gradually gives way to dense forests and alpine landscapes. Pyramid Falls, Mount Robson the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies and Yellowhead Pass are among the signature sights between Kamloops and Jasper.

Rocky Mountaineer travels during daylight hours and at a relaxed pace, so you don’t miss a moment of the spectacular scenery. You can admire the views from the comfort of your spacious seat in the glass-dome coach. Once in Jasper, enjoy a range of sightseeing experiences that suit your interests from wildlife viewing to food tours. A local travel expert can personalize your itinerary and pre-book activities and things to do in Jasper.

Route map for Rocky Mountaineer Journey Through the Clouds

What scenery do you see on Journey Through the Clouds?

Journey through the Clouds is particularly appealing for travellers who want to experience remote landscapes, rivers, forests and mountain scenery. Across the two rail days, the landscape changes dramatically as you travel between Vancouver and Jasper.

Hell’s Gate

Hell’s Gate

Hell’s Gate is one of the highlights of the Fraser Canyon, where the Fraser River narrows between steep rock walls. It’s a dramatic introduction to the canyon scenery between Vancouver and Kamloops.

Cisco Crossing

Cisco Crossing

Cisco Crossing is where the Canadian Pacific and Canadian National rail lines cross on opposite sides of the Fraser River. From the train, you can see the bridges spanning the canyon –  an impressive example of railway engineering.

Mount Robson

Mount Robson

Mount Robson rises 3,954 metres (12,972 feet), making it the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Sometimes the top of the mountain is shrouded by mist or a veil of clouds.

Pyramid Falls

Pyramid Falls

Pyramid Falls cascades down the mountainside close to the railway. At approximately 92 metres (300 feet) high, this waterfall can only be seen from the train on the Journey through the Clouds route.

Albreda Glacier

Albreda Glacier

Albreda Glacier is a striking natural landmark in British Columbia’s Monashee Mountains, south of Valemount and close to Mount Robson Provincial Park. Spectacular views of this area can be seen from the train as it travels between Kamloops and Jasper.

Yellowhead Pass

Yellowhead Pass

Yellowhead Pass is a low-elevation passage across the Continental Divide, between British Columbia and Jasper, Alberta. Surrounded by forests, rivers and mountain peaks, this historic corridor has been used by Indigenous Peoples, explorers and fur traders for centuries.

With Rocky Mountaineer travelling during daylight hours, you can enjoy these sights from spacious seating and panoramic windows. GoldLeaf Service also offers an outdoor viewing platform for a different perspective on the passing scenery.

Top of the Rocky Mountaineer train as it goes through a forest during fall in the Canadian Rockies

Capturing the Rockies: Fall photography opportunities

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For those who love photography, fall’s golden light provides stunning opportunities to capture the beauty of the Rockies.

Angie Bosworth
Vacation Advisor at Canadian Train Vacations by Fresh Tracks Canada

Best-selling Journey Through the Clouds Train Trips in 2026

Complete Canadian Rockies by Train Trip

2026 price freeze + $400 bonus

Complete Canadian Rockies by Train

8 days • April – October

Places visited: Vancouver, Kamloops, Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff

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Spring Train Trip Through Canadian Rockies

2026 price freeze + $400 bonus

Springtime in the Rockies

8 days • April – May

Places visited: Vancouver, Kamloops, Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff

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Circle the Canadian Rockies by Train Trip

Circle the Canadian Rockies by Train

12 days • May – September

Places visited: Vancouver, Whistler, Quesnel, Jasper, Lake Louise, Banff, Kamloops

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Rocky Mountaineer travelling past Cheakamus Canyon on the Rainforest to Goldrush Route

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What is the best time of year to travel the Journey Through the Clouds route?

The Journey through the Clouds route is available from April to October, offering unique experiences in each season:

Two moose cross the road in the Canadian Rockies

Snowmelt creates dramatic waterfalls, and wildlife sightings are frequent. The mountains are likely to have snow-capped peaks and colourful alpine flowers. You can expect fewer crowds in the Canadian Rockies destinations, too. 

How does it compare to First Passage to the West?

The main difference between Journey Through the Clouds and First Passage to the West are the Rockies destinations they go to. Both share the route between Vancouver and Kamloops, but travel to different destinations on the second rail day. Journey through the Clouds continues to Jasper, while First Passage to the West continues to Banff or Lake Louise. 

Journey through the Clouds First Passage to the West
Rockies Destination Jasper, Alberta Banff or Lake Louise, Alberta
Start/end Destination Vancouver, British Columbia Vancouver, British Columbia
Route highlights Fraser Canyon, Hell’s Gate, North Thompson River, Mount Robson, Pyramid Falls Fraser Canyon, Hell’s Gate, Spiral Tunnels, Craigellachie, Castle Mountain
Rail days 2 days 2 days
Overnight stop Kamloops, British Columbia Kamloops, British Columbia
Best for Travellers drawn to remote landscapes, wildlife and Jasper National Park First-time Rockies visitors who want to experience the iconic sights of Banff National Park

For more detail on the Banff and Lake Louise route, explore First Passage to the West. Our local travel experts are also happy to walk you through both Rocky Mountaineer routes so you can choose which one is best for you.

SilverLeaf vs GoldLeaf: which service should you choose?

Rocky Mountaineer offers two levels of service, GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf, and both are available on the Journey Through the Clouds route.

Feature SilverLeaf Service GoldLeaf Service
Coach design Custom-designed single-level coach.
56 seats in each SilverLeaf coach.		 Custom-designed bi-level coach with a dedicated dining area on the lower level.
68 seats in each GoldLeaf coach.
Seating Reclining, comfortable pre-assigned seats with ample leg room. Reclining, comfortable pre-assigned seats with ample leg room.
Windows Oversized windows for panoramic views. Full glass-dome windows with panoramic views upstairs. Large picture windows in the lower-level dining room.
Outdoor access Small outdoor viewing area between train coaches. Large, exclusive outdoor viewing platform.
Dining Hot entrée meals served at your seat. Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including BC wines and beers. Gourmet à la carte meals served in the dining room. Complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including signature cocktails.
Onboard hosts 2 onboard hosts, culinary team 3-4 onboard hosts, full culinary team
Onboard commentary Onboard hosts provide engaging commentary about the landscape, wildlife, and historic sites Onboard hosts provide engaging commentary about the landscape, wildlife, and historic sites
From-price* (for a trip that features Journey Through the Clouds) From $7,130 CAD per person From $7,950 CAD per person

*Prices in the table above are for a personalized trip by Canadian Train Vacations by Fresh Tracks Canada that includes the Journey Through the Clouds route. As well as the Rocky Mountaineer journey, these trips includes hotel stays, sightseeing excursions, additional destinations, train station and airport transfers, and customer service support from booking through travel.

Compare GoldLeaf vs. SilverLeaf Service

What should you pack for your Rocky Mountaineer journey?

Comfortable, casual clothing is ideal for the Rocky Mountaineer train experience. As you travel between Vancouver and Jasper, temperatures and weather can change considerably, so dress in layers and keep a light waterproof jacket handy, particularly if you plan to use the outdoor viewing area.

Luggage onboard

Bring a small day bag with the essentials you’ll need during the rail day, including medication, valuables and your camera. There is no overhead or under-seat luggage storage onboard Rocky Mountaineer, and your larger luggage travels separately to your overnight hotel.

What to bring

  • Comfortable layers: A sweater or fleece and a light waterproof jacket for changing conditions.

  • Comfortable shoes: Choose supportive footwear for moving around the train and exploring your destinations.

  • Sun protection: Sunglasses and a hat are useful during bright stretches of the journey.

  • Camera or smartphone: Keep it close by for sights such as Hell’s Gate, Pyramid Falls and Mount Robson.

  • Binoculars: Useful for taking a closer look at distant mountain scenery and possible wildlife sightings.

  • Spring and fall extras: Pack a warmer layer, gloves and a scarf for cooler temperatures.

What does a Journey through the Clouds vacation include and cost?

Canadian Train Vacations by Fresh Tracks Canada builds a personalized itinerary around the Journey Through the Clouds route, combining your Rocky Mountaineer journey with hotels, transfers, additional destinations and sightseeing experiences. 

A typical Journey Through the Clouds vacation starts from $7,130 CAD per person and includes:

  • 2 days of Rocky Mountaineer rail travel in SilverLeaf Service or GoldLeaf Service, between Vancouver and Jasper.

  • Breakfast and lunch on the train, along with snacks and complimentary alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

  • An overnight hotel in Kamloops between your two days onboard Rocky Mountaineer, with luggage handled for you. Larger bags are transported separately while you travel with a small day bag onboard.

  • Pre-arranged transfers between the train, hotels and other destinations in your itinerary.

  • Sightseeing experiences, such as the Jasper Skytram, Maligne Lake cruise, guided walking tours, and other activities chosen to match your interests.

Journey through the Clouds can be part of a longer personalized Canadian Train Vacations itinerary. The Complete Canadian Rockies by Train is an 8-day vacation that combines Rocky Mountaineer with time in Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff, including sightseeing along the Icefields Parkway. Circle the Rockies by Train offers another option for travellers who want to experience both Rocky Mountaineer routes (First Passage to the West and Journey Through the Clouds). Your Canadian Insider can help you choose and personalize the trip around your interests, dates and preferred pace.

Guests socializing at their seats in GoldLeaf on the Rocky Mountaineer Train
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GoldLeaf glass-dome coach

In GoldLeaf, guests enjoy spacious seating in the upper level of the bi-level glass-dome coach.

Couples enjoying breakfast together in GoldLeaf dining room on the Rocky Mountaineer Train
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GoldLeaf dining room

Guests enjoy freshly prepared gourmet meals in the exclusive dining room on the lower level.

Guests socializing over drinks in a Rocky Mountaineer SilverLeaf coach
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SilverLeaf glass-dome coach

SilverLeaf service includes seating in a single-level glass-dome coach with oversized windows.

Chef serving lunch seatside in SilverLeaf coach.
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SilverLeaf dining experience

Guests are served meals at their seats in SilverLeaf service.

Spirit Island sits in the middle of the turquoise waters of Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park
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Jasper

The Journey Through the Clouds route starts or ends in Jasper, the largest park in the Canadian Rockies.

False Creek, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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Vancouver

The Journey Through the Clouds route starts or ends in Vancouver, a beautiful west coast city.

Passenger reading Mile Post onboard the Rocky Mountaineer

Explore Rocky Mountaineer onboard publications

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Make time to read the Rocky Mountaineer's onboard newspaper and magazine! You’ll discover local stories, maps, and more details about the places you’re travelling through.

Deborah Scott
Vacation Advisor at Canadian Train Vacations by Fresh Tracks Canada
Featured Trip

Glaciers, Lakes, and Fall Colours in the Rockies

This 8-day Canadian Rockies train trip combines two days aboard Rocky Mountaineer with time in Jasper and Banff, an overnight stay at Glacier View Lodge, and a guided experience on the Athabasca Glacier. Travel in September for spectacular fall colours, glacial lakes, mountain scenery and excellent wildlife viewing.

  • Available:

    September

  • Length:

    8 days

  • Time on train:

    2 days

  • Price from:

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  • Train type:

    Rocky Mountaineer

Is Journey through the Clouds worth the money?

Journey through the Clouds is worth considering if discovering the remote scenery of Western Canada is a priority and you want to experience it at a relaxed pace. Rocky Mountaineer is designed specifically for sightseeing, with daylight-only rail travel, panoramic windows, onboard commentary and meals served as the scenery changes around you.

In Rocky Mountaineer reviews, guests often highlight the attentive onboard service, quality of the dining and the opportunity to see parts of the Canadian Rockies that are difficult to experience by road. The cost includes more than the rail journey itself. Onboard meals and beverages are included, along with your overnight hotel stay in Kamloops, so you can enjoy two full days of scenic rail travel without sleeping on the train.

Canadian Train Vacations has helped more than 30,000 guests plan personalized vacations across Canada. Read our guest reviews to hear directly from travellers about their rail journeys and experiences in the Canadian Rockies. Your Canadian Insider can also explain the different service options and personalize your vacation around what matters most to you.

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Last updated: Sep 17, 2026

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