Will I be travelling with a tour group, or is this an independent trip?

As our trips are personalized just for you, there's no fixed group schedule or rigid itinerary. You'll be travelling independently , with the freedom to explore at your own pace, and can choose the scheduled activities that match your interests. Our local experts help plan and coordinate your travel details and offer guidance and support throughout your trip.

Can I modify or customize this trip?

Absolutely! We personalize all our guests’ trips to fit their exact tastes and needs: Add extra days: Spend more time at locations you’d like to explore. Modify the route and stops: Omit areas that don’t interest you, add destinations and iconic landmarks, or adjust the direction of your itinerary. Pick your experiences: Choose from our vast selection of small-group sightseeing tours and unique local activities. Simply discuss your travel goals with our local travel experts and they'll ensure your trip aligns with your preferences and budget.

Are there accessible options for those with mobility needs?

About one in five of our travelers requires mobility-related support, so we’re experienced in making adjustments to suit a range of needs. While some activities and transportation are more flexible than others, our Canadian Insiders will recommend the best options for your mobility and activity level , ensuring you have a comfortable and unforgettable trip.

What types of hotels will I stay in, and what are the options for comfort levels?

We offer a range of carefully selected hotels to suit your preferences for comfort, location, and experience. Our accommodation options are typically categorized as follows: Comfort Level: Quality 3-star hotels with great locations and excellent service. Superior/Boutique Level: Upscale 4-star properties that offer additional character and charm, providing a memorable experience without the premium price. Deluxe Level: Luxurious 5-star properties, often iconic Fairmont hotels with rich history, exclusive amenities, and unforgettable views. Sometimes we use the same hotel for more than one category and distinguish the room by size, floor level, or view. Our team can help you choose the ideal hotel level based on availability, your preferences, and the experience you’re looking for. For more examples, check out the accommodation section of the trip page or ask one of our Canadian Insiders for recommendations.

How can I find the total cost for this trip?

Because each of our trips is fully customized, the total cost depends on your travel dates, preferred accommodations, train service level, and chosen activities. To ensure you get an accurate estimate, our local experts will take the time to understand your preferences and specific needs. Based on this information, they’ll provide you with a personalized quote that clearly outlines what’s included.

What are the transportation arrangements for airport transfers and local travel?

Depending on the trip class level you choose, you could have a mix of motorcoach journeys, small-group sightseeing tours, and private transfers. Once you've booked your trip, we will provide more information about where each driver will meet you.

What types of activities or excursions are offered on this trip?

Our trip itineraries allow you to choose your preferred activities and excursions in each location. You can pick from a range of small-group and private sightseeing experiences, including guided hiking and walking, food tours, lake cruises, helicopter flights, and sightseeing by vehicle. Some of our guests are very active, while others simply want to relax. Let us know your interests and physical activity level and we will find the best excursions for you.

Can I purchase an individual train ticket?

Our personalized trips include much more than just train tickets. When you book with Fresh Tracks Canada, you receive expertly curated hotel accommodations and excursions tailored to your interests, plus airport, train and hotel transfers — ensuring a seamless travel experience from start to finish.

What's the experience like on VIA Rail's Canadian Train, and what can I expect from Sleeper Plus Class?

In Sleeper Plus Class on VIA Rail's Canadian Train, your experience includes: A private cabin: Your cabin features comfortable daytime seating that converts to bunk-style beds at night, plus a sink and toilet. A shared shower is available nearby. Delicious meals: Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and/or dinner in the classic dining car. Meals are prepared by chefs onboard the train. Scenic viewing cars: Relax and enjoy panoramic views of the passing scenery in the glass-domed upper level of the Skyline and Prestige Park cars. These are great places to socialize with fellow travelers. Complimentary refreshments: Tea, coffee, and snacks are available throughout the journey. Non-alcoholic drinks are included in Sleeper Plus, while alcoholic beverages are available for purchase.

Overview

FAQs

Itinerary

Prices

Accommodations

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RS352 VIA Train CANA024 sRGB CREDIT VIA Rail

Canadian Rockies to Toronto by Train

Length

12 days / 11 nights

Time on train

3 days / 3 nights

Train type

Where it goes

When to go

May – October

Price from

Your itinerary is personalized to suit your dreams and needs:

Decide your desired budget
Choose your own activities and experiences
Have all the details of your trip arranged for you

Start Planning

Canadian Rockies and a sleeper-train journey

Visit big cities and charming mountain towns on this 12-day vacation across Canada! Discover western culture in Calgary, explore the highlights of the Canadian Rockies, and take the sleeper train from Jasper to Toronto.

Highlights of your trip

Sleep onboard The Canadian train as you travel across Canada

Tour the Icefields Parkway, one of the world's most scenic highways

Five nights in the Canadian Rockies, including one night at Chateau Lake Louise

Explore the highlights of Jasper and Banff national parks

See ancient glaciers, emerald lakes, forests and wildlife

Option to visit Niagara Falls on a day tour from Toronto

See inside the train

Passengers seated inside one of VIA Rail's dome cars

The upper viewing level on VIA Rail’s Park Car

Sit back and admire the panoramic views in this glass-domed car as you sip on a beverage from the downstairs lounge.

Closeup of a set table in the dining car with a mountain view in the background.

The classic dining car on VIA Rail

Enjoy delicious multi-course meals in the inviting dining car with its excellent table service. Large windows mean you don’t miss any scenery as you dine.

Upper and lower beds in a VIA Rail cabin for 2

VIA Rail’s cozy Cabin for Two in Sleeper Plus

This private cabin features a large window for taking in the scenery, two chairs by day and bunk beds by night, and a small washroom with a sink and toilet.

Stairs to Bullet Lounge located at back of Prestige Park car onboard VIA Rail's train, The Canadian

The Bullet Lounge on VIA Rail’s Park Car

Relax in the plush chairs of the elegant Bullet Lounge located in the lower level of the Park Car, where you can take in the view out the back of the train.

An aerial view of the Prestige cabin onboard the Canadian train.

Upgrade option: Prestige Class cabin

Ask us about a luxury upgrade to Prestige Class — the ultimate overnight train experience, this modern cabin has a plush double bed and private shower. Includes the services of a personal concierge.

Your Questions Answered

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

What’s Included

Hotel accommodation

Sleeper train experience in a private cabin

Meals onboard the train

Choice of unique guided activities

Train station transfers

Transportation to and from airports, timed with your flights

Feature dining experience at one of our favorite local restaurants

Electronic travel documentation package

Personalized Fresh Tracks Canada customer service support

Frequently Asked Questions

Sample Itinerary

Speak to one of our Canadian Insiders about personalizing this trip. Some of our trips can be done in the reverse direction.

Indicates featured inclusions

Arrive in Calgary

Welcome to the city of Calgary, where the prairies end and the foothills of the Rocky Mountains begin.

Private Transfer from Calgary Airport
A friendly driver will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in downtown Calgary.
Dinner at The Fairmont Palliser
This evening you can relax as dinner has been arranged for you. Savor a 3-course meal at the Fairmont Palliser.

Calgary to Banff

After a morning of discovery in Calgary, transfer through the rolling foothills of the Canadian Rockies to the mountain town of Banff.

You have 3 options to choose from today:

Downtown Calgary Walking Tour
Calgary is a blend of a brash frontier town and a lively urban centre. Discover what makes Calgary such an exciting place on a guided walking tour of downtown. The tour will introduce the city’s history, public art, sculptures, restaurants, and more.
Studio Bell Admission
Explore five floors of interactive exhibitions that take you on a journey through the sights, sounds and stories of music in Canada. See memorabilia from some of Canada's best musicians and walk through the Canadian Music Halls of Fame.
Calgary Tower Admission
Head to the Calgary Tower's observation deck for an impressive 360-degree view of Calgary and the majestic Rocky Mountains. Step onto the glass floor and look down at the city streets below.

Transfer to Banff
Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery as you travel from Calgary to Banff.

Explore Banff National Park

Fill your lungs with cool, fresh Rocky Mountain air and explore Banff National Park in your chosen way.

You have 3 options to choose from today:

Banff Sightseeing Tour and Gondola Ride
Discover Banff’s folklore and natural history on a small group tour, then ride the gondola up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
Cowboy Cookout Lunch by Horse-Drawn Wagon
Embrace the fresh mountain air on a morning wagon ride along the base of Sulphur Mountain. Midway, relax at 3 Mile Cabin by the Sundance Canyon Trail and enjoy a tasty BBQ lunch.
Signature Hike from Banff
Hiking is one of the best ways to explore Banff National Park. With a professional guide and small group, hike through the beautiful alpine landscape on one of our favourite trails and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Banff to Lake Louise

Travel to Lake Louise today, where turquoise waters are surrounded by glacier-clad peaks. Relax, stroll by the lake, or take out a canoe.

Banff to Lake Louise Sightseeing Transfer
Travel along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway on a guided sightseeing transfer to Lake Louise. Photo stops and commentary are provided along the way.

Icefields Parkway - Lake Louise to Jasper

Enjoy an all-day trip down the spine of the Canadian Rockies, on one of the most spectacular roads in the world.

Icefields Parkway Tour to Jasper
Travel along the Icefields Parkway on this full-day tour. Walk on the Athabasca Glacier, stop for lunch, and step bravely onto the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

Explore Jasper National Park

Jasper’s wide-open valleys are enticing to a variety of wildlife and are incredibly breathtaking. Spend the day exploring Jasper National Park on your style of tour.

You have 2 options to choose from today:

Maligne Lake Tour with Cruise
On a small group tour, see Maligne Canyon, where a raging river has eroded the limestone rock for thousands of years. Afterwards, cruise across the tranquil blue-green waters of Maligne Lake to reach Spirit Island.
Privately Guided Nature Walk
Join one of Jasper's most knowledgeable guides for a private nature walk. Discover wildlife, wildflowers and magnificent views.

VIA Rail - Depart Jasper

Board The Canadian train in Jasper. Settle into your private cabin and take in the spectacular views as you leave Canada's iconic Rocky Mountains behind.

Suggested Add On: Sunrise Photo and Wildlife Tour (extra cost)
Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply want to take pictures from your cell phone, you will get some great shots of Jasper on this early morning guided tour.
Transfer from Hotel to Train Station
The Canadian Train - Onboard Service
Watch the changing scenery from the train's viewing cars and enjoy hot meals in the dining car. Ask your Vacation Advisor about the differences between Sleeper Plus Class and Prestige Class.

VIA Rail - Canadian Prairies

Make your way across the undulating plains of the Prairie provinces — Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Fields of green and gold stretch endlessly under an immense blue sky. When you look out the window, spot rustic barns and small farming towns.

VIA Rail - Ontario

Awake in the province of Ontario and travel through the rugged landscape of the Canadian Shield. See ancient, exposed rock, boreal forest, and countless lakes. Keep an eye out for fishing cabins perched on small islands, as well as moose and bears.

VIA Rail - Arrive in Toronto

After traveling south through Ontario's cottage country, your journey onboard The Canadian train comes to an end. Arrive in Toronto — Canada's cultural heart and largest city.

Explore Toronto or Niagara Falls

Spend a day enjoying the quaint and colorful neighborhoods of Toronto or visit the majestic Niagara Falls.

You have 3 options to choose from today:

Niagara Falls Day Tour
On this full-day small-group tour, get up close to Niagara Falls on a Hornblower boat ride and explore the quaint town of Niagara-On-The-Lake.
Food Walking Tour in Toronto
Taste your way through Toronto on a small group walking tour. This delicious food journey guides you from the St. Lawrence Market towards the famous Distillery District. At each stop, enjoy a snack inspired by the local area.
Toronto Sightseeing Tour and CN Tower Dinner
On a small guided tour by motorcoach, explore the vibrant city of Toronto, where modern skyscrapers meet historic neighbourhoods. Highlights could include Yorkville, the Harbourfront, Distillery District, and more. Later this evening, enjoy dinner at the CN Tower.

Depart from Toronto

Much too soon, you journey home — leaving the fresh air and friendly faces of Canada.

Private Transfer from Hotel to Airport
A friendly driver will take you from your hotel to the airport in time for your flight.

Sample Itinerary

Speak to one of our Canadian Insiders about personalizing this trip. Some of our trips can be done in the reverse direction.

Indicates featured inclusions

Day 1
Arrive in Calgary
Arrive in Calgary
Day 2
Calgary to Banff
Calgary to Banff
Day 3
Explore Banff Natio...
Explore Banff National Park
Day 4
Banff to Lake Louis...
Banff to Lake Louise

Arrive in Calgary

Welcome to the city of Calgary, where the prairies end and the foothills of the Rocky Mountains begin.

Private Transfer from Calgary Airport
A friendly driver will meet you at the airport and take you to your hotel in downtown Calgary.
Dinner at The Fairmont Palliser
This evening you can relax as dinner has been arranged for you. Savor a 3-course meal at the Fairmont Palliser.

Calgary to Banff

After a morning of discovery in Calgary, transfer through the rolling foothills of the Canadian Rockies to the mountain town of Banff.

You have 3 options to choose from today:

Downtown Calgary Walking Tour
Calgary is a blend of a brash frontier town and a lively urban centre. Discover what makes Calgary such an exciting place on a guided walking tour of downtown. The tour will introduce the city’s history, public art, sculptures, restaurants, and more.
Studio Bell Admission
Explore five floors of interactive exhibitions that take you on a journey through the sights, sounds and stories of music in Canada. See memorabilia from some of Canada's best musicians and walk through the Canadian Music Halls of Fame.
Calgary Tower Admission
Head to the Calgary Tower's observation deck for an impressive 360-degree view of Calgary and the majestic Rocky Mountains. Step onto the glass floor and look down at the city streets below.

Transfer to Banff
Sit back, relax and enjoy the scenery as you travel from Calgary to Banff.

Explore Banff National Park

Fill your lungs with cool, fresh Rocky Mountain air and explore Banff National Park in your chosen way.

You have 3 options to choose from today:

Banff Sightseeing Tour and Gondola Ride
Discover Banff’s folklore and natural history on a small group tour, then ride the gondola up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
Cowboy Cookout Lunch by Horse-Drawn Wagon
Embrace the fresh mountain air on a morning wagon ride along the base of Sulphur Mountain. Midway, relax at 3 Mile Cabin by the Sundance Canyon Trail and enjoy a tasty BBQ lunch.
Signature Hike from Banff
Hiking is one of the best ways to explore Banff National Park. With a professional guide and small group, hike through the beautiful alpine landscape on one of our favourite trails and enjoy a picnic lunch.

Banff to Lake Louise

Travel to Lake Louise today, where turquoise waters are surrounded by glacier-clad peaks. Relax, stroll by the lake, or take out a canoe.

Banff to Lake Louise Sightseeing Transfer
Travel along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway on a guided sightseeing transfer to Lake Louise. Photo stops and commentary are provided along the way.

Icefields Parkway - Lake Louise to Jasper

Enjoy an all-day trip down the spine of the Canadian Rockies, on one of the most spectacular roads in the world.

Icefields Parkway Tour to Jasper
Travel along the Icefields Parkway on this full-day tour. Walk on the Athabasca Glacier, stop for lunch, and step bravely onto the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

Explore Jasper National Park

Jasper’s wide-open valleys are enticing to a variety of wildlife and are incredibly breathtaking. Spend the day exploring Jasper National Park on your style of tour.

You have 2 options to choose from today:

Maligne Lake Tour with Cruise
On a small group tour, see Maligne Canyon, where a raging river has eroded the limestone rock for thousands of years. Afterwards, cruise across the tranquil blue-green waters of Maligne Lake to reach Spirit Island.
Privately Guided Nature Walk
Join one of Jasper's most knowledgeable guides for a private nature walk. Discover wildlife, wildflowers and magnificent views.

VIA Rail - Depart Jasper

Board The Canadian train in Jasper. Settle into your private cabin and take in the spectacular views as you leave Canada's iconic Rocky Mountains behind.

Suggested Add On: Sunrise Photo and Wildlife Tour (extra cost)
Whether you're a photography enthusiast or simply want to take pictures from your cell phone, you will get some great shots of Jasper on this early morning guided tour.
Transfer from Hotel to Train Station
The Canadian Train - Onboard Service
Watch the changing scenery from the train's viewing cars and enjoy hot meals in the dining car. Ask your Vacation Advisor about the differences between Sleeper Plus Class and Prestige Class.

VIA Rail - Canadian Prairies

VIA Rail - Ontario

VIA Rail - Arrive in Toronto

After traveling south through Ontario's cottage country, your journey onboard The Canadian train comes to an end. Arrive in Toronto — Canada's cultural heart and largest city.

Explore Toronto or Niagara Falls

Spend a day enjoying the quaint and colorful neighborhoods of Toronto or visit the majestic Niagara Falls.

You have 3 options to choose from today:

Niagara Falls Day Tour
On this full-day small-group tour, get up close to Niagara Falls on a Hornblower boat ride and explore the quaint town of Niagara-On-The-Lake.
Food Walking Tour in Toronto
Taste your way through Toronto on a small group walking tour. This delicious food journey guides you from the St. Lawrence Market towards the famous Distillery District. At each stop, enjoy a snack inspired by the local area.
Toronto Sightseeing Tour and CN Tower Dinner
On a small guided tour by motorcoach, explore the vibrant city of Toronto, where modern skyscrapers meet historic neighbourhoods. Highlights could include Yorkville, the Harbourfront, Distillery District, and more. Later this evening, enjoy dinner at the CN Tower.

Depart from Toronto

Much too soon, you journey home — leaving the fresh air and friendly faces of Canada.

Private Transfer from Hotel to Airport
A friendly driver will take you from your hotel to the airport in time for your flight.

Download Itinerary

Get more details in a sample itinerary that includes day-tour options and descriptions, departure dates, and suggestions for personalizing your trip

Prices

Get your personalized quote as prices vary by departure date, train-service level and hotel class. Prices shown are our lowest rates per person, based on double occupancy, and exclude taxes.

Comfort Level

Hotel Accommodation

VIA Rail Service

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Superior Level

Hotel Accommodation

VIA Rail Service

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Deluxe Level

Hotel Accommodation

VIA Rail Service

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Start Planning

Accommodations

These are examples of the places you can stay on this trip. Please get in touch to discuss your options and to check availability.

Elk and Avenue Hotel in Banff in the summer with mountains behind

Elk + Avenue Hotel

Example of a Comfort hotel in Banff

Conveniently located in downtown Banff, the Elk and Avenue Hotel combines Banff’s alpine history with a sleek modern design. After a day of exploring, unwind in the hotel’s jacuzzi or dry sauna, then enjoy fresh Canadian cuisine at the on-site restaurant.

Elegant lobby with armchairs and fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows at Rimrock Resort

Rimrock Resort Hotel

Example of a Superior hotel in Banff

Built into the side of a mountain, the Rimrock Resort Hotel sits high above Banff town and provides guests with spectacular views of the Bow River Valley. Banff Upper Hot Springs and the Banff Gondola are a short walk from the hotel, while other attractions are minutes away by car.

blue Lake Louise with trees and Fairmont Hotel in background

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Example of a Deluxe hotel in Lake Louise

Located in Banff National Park, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is surrounded by soaring mountain peaks, a sparkling turquoise lake, and the impressive Victoria Glacier. Explore the area’s outstanding beauty on horseback, or paddle on the lake in a canoe.

Personalize This Itinerary

Here are some of the most popular ways to personalize this journey.

Upgrade to Prestige Class

Prestige Class is a luxury experience. Available on VIA Rail’s The Canadian Train between Vancouver and Toronto, this spacious double cabin includes a special concierge service throughout your journey. This is one of our most popular upgrade options.

Train to Vancouver

Add a scenic train ride to Vancouver on the West Coast. Take Rocky Mountaineer's daylight train or enjoy a sleeper train experience onboard VIA Rail's The Canadian train.

Add the Calgary Stampede

The Calgary Stampede – billed as The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth – is held each year in Calgary, Alberta. If you are planning to travel in July, make sure you add on this experience.

Celebrate an occasion

Whether it's a birthday, anniversary, graduation, or the fulfillment of a lifelong goal, our team is ready to make it a celebration to remember. From arranging a bottle of champagne to putting together a helicopter picnic for two on top of a mountain at sunset, we're ready to make your dreams a reality.

Insider Tips

For me, the cross-Canada trips are the perfect blend of diversion and relaxation. My favorite stretch is the descent from the Rockies' alpine forests into the panoramic vistas of the prairies.

Greg

Canadian Insider

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