What is the Rainforest to Gold Rush rail route?

Rainforest to Gold Rush is the only Rocky Mountaineer route that travels through Whistler. The journey runs in both directions between Vancouver and Jasper over three rail days, with overnight hotel stays in Whistler and Quesnel.

The route is especially distinctive because of how dramatically the scenery changes. Guests travel from the Pacific Coast and Sea to Sky corridor into the Cariboo region before reaching the Canadian Rockies and Jasper National Park.

The Sea to Sky corridor is a scenic region north of Vancouver featuring the Pacific coastline, fjords, waterfalls, dense temperate rainforest and the Coast Mountains. From the glass-dome coach, guests can look across Howe Sound before the train climbs toward Whistler.

Beyond Whistler, the train travels through the Fraser Canyon and into the Cariboo region. Here, wide river valleys, forests and open plateaus reflect British Columbia’s gold-rush history. Quesnel became an important centre during the Cariboo Gold Rush of the 1860s, and the route follows landscapes once travelled by prospectors heading north.

Between Quesnel and Jasper the scenery becomes increasingly mountainous as the train approaches the Canadian Rockies. Highlights include Mount Robson and Jasper National Park, where alpine peaks mark the final transition into the Rockies.

All rail travel takes place during daylight hours, allowing guests to enjoy the changing landscapes comfortably from the glass-dome coach.

Dining is an important part of the Rocky Mountaineer experience. GoldLeaf guests enjoy freshly prepared meals in the lower-level dining room while travelling through Western Canada.

Breakfast and lunch feature regionally inspired ingredients and changing menu selections, while beverages, snacks and alcoholic drinks are available throughout the day. Vegetarian, gluten-free and other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice.

Sample Menu Onboard  

Breakfast Selections (Served with fresh fruit, pastries, and gourmet coffee/tea.) 

• Smoked Salmon and Scrambled Eggs – Served with roasted breakfast potatoes and fresh herbs. 

• Buttermilk Pancakes with Maple Syrup – Topped with fresh fruit compote. 

• Greek Yogurt and Granola Bowl – Mixed with honey and seasonal fruit. 

Lunch Selections (Served with artisan bread or other starter, BC wine options, and choice of dessert.) 

• Grilled Alberta Beef Tenderloin – With garlic mashed potatoes and a red wine jus. 

• West Coast Salmon – Fresh BC salmon with lemon-dill sauce and roasted vegetables. 

• Rocky Mountain Power Bowl – Mushrooms, yams and tofu with tahini sauce.