Overview

FAQs

Itinerary

Prices

Accommodations

Start Planning
Start Planning

Train journey across Canada in the spring

Spring in Canada is beautiful! Experience two of Canada's most iconic trains as you travel from Toronto to Vancouver. Admire lush forests, snowy mountain peaks, and beautiful gardens along the way. This season is also one of the best times for wildlife viewing as bears come out of hibernation.

Route map of Across Canada by Train trip from Vancouver to Toronto
Highlights of your trip

Relax on VIA Rail's cozy sleeper train as you travel across Canada

Discover the beautiful Niagara wine region or world-famous Niagara Falls

Ride the luxury Rocky Mountaineer all-daylight sightseeing train

Stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in the Canadian Rockies

See snow-capped mountains, colourful flowers, and rushing waterfalls

Enjoy excellent wildlife viewing opportunities in the spring 

See inside the trains

Sunset View of Canadian Rockies and Railway Track at Lake Louise

Travel on VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer

VIA Rail's Canadian train is a sleeper train that takes you from Toronto to Jasper. Rocky Mountaineer is an all-daylight luxury train between the Rockies and Vancouver, with the choice of SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf service.
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.
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.
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.
Onboard Host speaks about the scenery from GoldLeaf dome on the Rocky Mountaineer Train

Glass-domed upper level on Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf service

Relax in luxury on GoldLeaf’s bi-level coach, as you take in the spectacular panoramic views and enjoy premium beverages and snacks.
Couples enjoying breakfast together in GoldLeaf dining room on the Rocky Mountaineer Train

GoldLeaf’s dedicated lower dining room

Dine on elegant meals prepared with local ingredients and watch the passing mountain scenery through the oversized windows.
View from the outdoor viewing platform of the GoldLeaf coach

GoldLeaf’s outdoor viewing platform

Breathe the fresh mountain air and get some amazing photos from the exclusive viewing platform at the back of each GoldLeaf coach.
Socializing over drinks on the Rocky Mountaineer

Oversized glass-dome windows in Rocky Mountaineer’s SilverLeaf service

SilverLeaf’s single-level dome coach offers outstanding views as Rocky Mountaineer’s hosts entertain you with stories.
Chef serving breakfast seat-side in the SilverLeaf coach of the Rocky Mountaineer train

SilverLeaf’s in-seat meal service

Enjoy drinks, snacks and regionally inspired gourmet meals served in the comfort of your plush reclining seat.

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
Rocky Mountaineer daylight train journey
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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Rocky Mountaineer is an all-daylight luxury train, offering breathtaking views of the scenery between Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies. You’ll enjoy gourmet meals, world-class service, and commentary on the wildlife, landscapes, and historic sites. You’ll stay in a hotel at night, then rejoin the train the next morning, refreshed and ready for more stunning scenery.

Service Levels:

SilverLeaf: Travel in a single-level glass-dome coach with oversized windows, assigned seats, and meals served at your seat. SilverLeaf coaches offer great wildlife viewing opportunities at eye-level.

GoldLeaf: Travel in a bi-level glass-dome coach with lounge seating on the upper level, a dining room on the lower level, and an exclusive outdoor viewing platform. GoldLeaf features taller coaches for unobstructed views above the treeline.

For more information and a detailed comparison of the Rocky Mountaineer service levels, please speak to one of our local travel experts.

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.

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 Toronto
Day 01

Arrive in Toronto

Welcome to Toronto! The sights and sounds of Canada’s largest city welcome you as you arrive in the heart of downtown.

Private Transfer from Toronto Airport
Explore Toronto or Niagara
Day 02

Explore Toronto or Niagara

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

You have 3 options to choose from today:
Niagara Falls Sightseeing Tour
Niagara Wine Country Bus Tour
Toronto Small Group Sightseeing Tour
VIA Rail - Depart Toronto
Day 03

VIA Rail - Depart Toronto

Board The Canadian train in Toronto and begin your transcontinental journey west. Travel north into Ontario's picturesque lake country.     

The Canadian Train - Onboard Service
VIA Rail - Ontario
Day 04

VIA Rail - Ontario

Head west through the rugged landscape of the Canadian Shield and into the province of Manitoba. See ancient, exposed rock, boreal forest, and countless lakes. Keep an eye out for fishing cabins perched on tiny islands, as well as moose and bears.

VIA Rail - Canadian Prairies
Day 05

VIA Rail - Canadian Prairies

Journey across the undulating plains of the Prairie provinces — Saskatchewan and Alberta. 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 - Arrive in Jasper
Day 06

VIA Rail - Arrive in Jasper

See the magnificent Rocky Mountains early this morning as you get close to Jasper. This laid-back mountain town lies in the heart of Jasper National Park.

Jasper Orientation Tour and Transfer
Explore Jasper National Park
Day 07

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 3 options to choose from today:
Private Guided Nature Walk
Jasper Walking Food Tour
Jasper Wildlife Tour
Icefields Parkway - Jasper to Lake Louise
Day 08

Icefields Parkway - Jasper to Lake Louise

Travel along the spine of the Rockies, on one of the most beautiful roads in the world — the Icefields Parkway — to picture-perfect Lake Louise.   

You have 2 options to choose from today:
Icefields Parkway Sightseeing Tour
Six Glaciers Helicopter and Icefields Tour
Enjoying Lake Louise and Transfer to Banff
Day 09

Enjoying Lake Louise and Transfer to Banff

For a good vacation, a varied pace is important and today you set the cadence. Relax, stroll around the lake, go to the spa, or ask us about getting out for an adventure like canoeing, horseback riding, hiking or climbing. 

Yoho National Park Tour to Banff
Explore Banff National Park
Day 10

Explore Banff National Park

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

You have 3 options to choose from today:
Jeep Sightseeing and Wildlife Tour with Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Banff Sightseeing Tour with Gondola
Johnston Canyon Explorer Walk
Rocky Mountaineer Train - Banff to Kamloops
Day 11

Rocky Mountaineer Train - Banff to Kamloops

All aboard! Settle in while the smell of breakfast wafts from the galley. A small jolt announces you are on your way — look forward to a day of spectacular scenery.

Motorcoach Transfer to Train Station
Rocky Mountaineer Train Service
Rocky Mountaineer Train - Kamloops to Vancouver
Day 12

Rocky Mountaineer Train - Kamloops to Vancouver

The exhilaration of your Canada train trip continues as you enjoy another day of great food, excellent service and incredible scenery. Arrive in Vancouver late this afternoon.

Motorcoach Transfer to Hotel
Depart Vancouver
Day 13

Depart Vancouver

Much too soon, you leave the fresh air and mountain peaks of Canada to journey home.

Private Transfer to Vancouver Airport

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 Toronto

Arrive in Toronto

Day 2

Explore Toronto or ...

Explore Toronto or Niagara

Day 3

VIA Rail - Depart T...

VIA Rail - Depart Toronto

Day 4

VIA Rail - Ontario

VIA Rail - Ontario

Arrive in Toronto

Arrive in Toronto

Welcome to Toronto! The sights and sounds of Canada’s largest city welcome you as you arrive in the heart of downtown.

Private Transfer from Toronto Airport
Explore Toronto or Niagara

Explore Toronto or Niagara

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

You have 3 options to choose from today:
Niagara Falls Sightseeing Tour
Niagara Wine Country Bus Tour
Toronto Small Group Sightseeing Tour
VIA Rail - Depart Toronto

VIA Rail - Depart Toronto

Board The Canadian train in Toronto and begin your transcontinental journey west. Travel north into Ontario's picturesque lake country.     

The Canadian Train - Onboard Service
VIA Rail - Ontario

VIA Rail - Ontario

Head west through the rugged landscape of the Canadian Shield and into the province of Manitoba. See ancient, exposed rock, boreal forest, and countless lakes. Keep an eye out for fishing cabins perched on tiny islands, as well as moose and bears.

VIA Rail - Canadian Prairies

VIA Rail - Canadian Prairies

Journey across the undulating plains of the Prairie provinces — Saskatchewan and Alberta. 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 - Arrive in Jasper

VIA Rail - Arrive in Jasper

See the magnificent Rocky Mountains early this morning as you get close to Jasper. This laid-back mountain town lies in the heart of Jasper National Park.

Jasper Orientation Tour and Transfer
Explore Jasper National Park

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 3 options to choose from today:
Private Guided Nature Walk
Jasper Walking Food Tour
Jasper Wildlife Tour
Icefields Parkway - Jasper to Lake Louise

Icefields Parkway - Jasper to Lake Louise

Travel along the spine of the Rockies, on one of the most beautiful roads in the world — the Icefields Parkway — to picture-perfect Lake Louise.   

You have 2 options to choose from today:
Icefields Parkway Sightseeing Tour
Six Glaciers Helicopter and Icefields Tour
Enjoying Lake Louise and Transfer to Banff

Enjoying Lake Louise and Transfer to Banff

For a good vacation, a varied pace is important and today you set the cadence. Relax, stroll around the lake, go to the spa, or ask us about getting out for an adventure like canoeing, horseback riding, hiking or climbing. 

Yoho National Park Tour to Banff
Explore Banff National Park

Explore Banff National Park

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

You have 3 options to choose from today:
Jeep Sightseeing and Wildlife Tour with Afternoon Tea
Afternoon Banff Sightseeing Tour with Gondola
Johnston Canyon Explorer Walk
Rocky Mountaineer Train - Banff to Kamloops

Rocky Mountaineer Train - Banff to Kamloops

All aboard! Settle in while the smell of breakfast wafts from the galley. A small jolt announces you are on your way — look forward to a day of spectacular scenery.

Motorcoach Transfer to Train Station
Rocky Mountaineer Train Service
Rocky Mountaineer Train - Kamloops to Vancouver

Rocky Mountaineer Train - Kamloops to Vancouver

The exhilaration of your Canada train trip continues as you enjoy another day of great food, excellent service and incredible scenery. Arrive in Vancouver late this afternoon.

Motorcoach Transfer to Hotel
Depart Vancouver

Depart Vancouver

Much too soon, you leave the fresh air and mountain peaks of Canada to journey home.

Private Transfer to Vancouver Airport

Download Itinerary

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

Scheduled Departure Dates

Our itineraries are planned around train-service schedules. Ask one of our Canadian Insiders about available dates and the different ways to personalize this trip - including adding days in select destinations.

Use the Start Planning button to submit a query about available dates.

Start Planning

Use the Start Planning button to submit a query about available dates.

April 2026
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
1234
567891011
12131415161718
19202122232425
262728293012
3456789
Scheduled departures
No scheduled departures

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
Rocky Mountaineer Service
Loading price... pp
Superior Level
Hotel Accommodation
VIA Rail Service
Rocky Mountaineer Service
Loading price... pp
Deluxe Level
Hotel Accommodation
VIA Rail Service
Rocky Mountaineer Service
Loading price... pp
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.

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.

Pan Pacific Hotel towers over Vancouver harbour. A cruise ship is docked nearby.

Pan Pacific Hotel Vancouver

Example of a Deluxe hotel in Vancouver

With its unique location atop Canada Place, the Pan Pacific Vancouver rises high above the cruise ship terminal and the Convention Centre. The hotel offers luxury accommodation in the heart of downtown.

Personalize This Itinerary

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

Visit Victoria, BC

Visit Victoria, BC

Add a night or two to explore the old-world charm of Victoria, on Vancouver Island. Visit the famed Butchart Gardens, go whale watching, or explore the seafront parks and museums. We recommend a stay at the Fairmont Empress - Victoria's stately crown jewel. Photo credit: Destination BC

Upgrade to Prestige Class

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.

More time in the Rockies

More time in the Rockies

Extend your stay in Banff or Jasper and explore more of the Canadian Rockies. There's so much to do here: lake cruises, guided canoeing, alpine hiking, food tours, gondola rides, and more!

What Our Customers Say

Excellent overall rating based on 16 reviews

Rocky Mountaineer portion was the best part of our trip

Rocky Mountaineer portion was the best part of our trip. We loved the food, scenery, and the story telling by staff and fellow travelers.

Donald and Jenny review of their [object Object] trip

Donald and Jenny

PA, USA

Our trip was delightful

Our trip was delightful. The highlights were the Pan Pacific view of Vancouver harbor; the tours of Victoria, Whistler; Rocky Mountaineer was excellent; and the food and city tour in Toronto.

Louis and Deborah review of their [object Object] trip

Louis and Deborah

NY, USA

The experience of the Rocky Mountaineer was amazing

We had a wonderful experience throughout our holiday. The tours booked including meal reservations were amazing. The experience of the Rocky Mountaineer was amazing and has left us... 

Katrina and Shane review of their [object Object] trip

Katrina and Shane

NSW, Australia

In a word, the trip was great

In a word, the trip was great. The rail journey was smooth and comfortable with delicious food. The two night stays at the Fairmont in Toronto, Lake Louise and Banff were remarkabl... 

Susan and Philip review of their [object Object] trip

Susan and Philip

VA, USA

So enjoyable, the stay could have been longer

The train travel, the crews, the food and experience interacting with people from all over the world was illuminating. We loved Jasper, a charming town with the magnificence of the... 

Patricia and Nugent review of their [object Object] trip

Patricia and Nugent

MA, USA

See more customer testimonials

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 A

Greg

Canadian Insider

bearbg

Discuss your Canadian train vacation with a local travel expert

Cartoon polar bear speaking on the phone

Or call us toll free

1 877 653 8755
Cartoon polar bear speaking on the phone

Current promotions

Sign up for special offers, monthly Canadian Insider tips, and vacation inspiration.

By submitting this form, you agree to our collection and use of your personal data as outlined in our Privacy Policy. We’ll use your information to process your request, improve our services, and share trip planning ideas, travel inspiration, and exclusive offers. You can unsubscribe at any time using the link in every email. We do not share your data without consent, except as required by law. Phone numbers will not be used for SMS.

Fresh Tracks Canada

Useful Links

Train Trip FinderWhere to go in CanadaJourneys Across CanadaCanadian Rockies and West CoastEastern Canada and The MaritimesCanadian North and ArcticSummer Train TripsWinter Train TripsFall Color Train TripsTours for SeniorsRoad Trips and Self DrivesFamily AdventuresVacations for Active SeniorsHistory and Culture TripsWildlife Viewing Trips

Explore Canada

The Canadian TrainTrain Across CanadaCanadian Sleeper TrainLuxury Trains Across CanadaVIA Rail VacationsRocky Mountaineer Train ToursCanadian Rockies Train ToursTrain Tours for SeniorsCanadian Pacific RailwayBest Train Trips in CanadaNational Park Train ToursTrain Tours from VancouverCanadian Snow TrainAlaska Cruise and Train ToursCanadian East Coast Train ToursCanadian West Coast Train Tours

Popular Train Trips

Vancouver to Toronto Train JourneyAcross Canada by TrainComplete Canadian Rockies by TrainCanadian Cross-Country JourneyClassic Eastern Canada by TrainTrans Canada Rainforest RouteCanadian Rockies Voyage by TrainCanada Coast to Coast by TrainRockies Winter Wonderland by TrainDiscover Whistler and the Canadian Rockies by TrainMontreal and Quebec City Getaway by TrainCanadian Cross-Country Journey in WinterLords of the Wilderness Bear ViewingTrans Canada by Train in WinterEssential Rockies with Alaska Cruise

Canadian Train Vacations

© 2025 Fresh Tracks Canada

| |