Trans Canada by Train in Winter
Length
12 days / 11 nights
Time on train
4 days / 4 nights
Train type
Where it goes
When to go
January – March
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
Snow train ride across Canada
Climb aboard the train in Vancouver, stopping in the Canadian Rockies to experience a winter wonderland. Continue across the country to end your journey in Toronto.
Sleep onboard VIA Rail’s Canadian Train in a private cabin
See the majestic Canadian Rockies in winter
Explore Vancouver, Jasper and Banff
Choice of unique winter tours and excursions
See the vast Canadian Prairies covered in snow
Spend a night in Toronto
See inside the train
The upper viewing level on VIA Rail’s Park Car
VIA Rail’s cozy Cabin for Two in Sleeper Plus
The classic dining car on VIA Rail
The Bullet Lounge on VIA Rail’s Park Car
Upgrade option: Prestige Class cabin
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
Frequently Asked Questions
Sample Itinerary
Begin your Canadian Winter Vacation
The cool, fresh air is invigorating as you start your Canadian winter train vacation. Vancouver’s relatively mild weather is a great introduction, but look to the north and discover the winter scene you’ve been dreaming of — Vancouver’s coastal mountains stand before you covered in pure white snow.
- Private Transfer from Vancouver Airport
Bypass the crowds and start making the most of your vacation. A friendly driver welcomes you to the city.
Discover Vancouver
With a mild climate and so much to do, it’s no wonder people flock to this west coast city! Explore Vancouver and the surrounding areas with one of the many activities available.
- Vancouver and Capilano Park Tour
Visit Vancouver's main attractions and neighbourhoods. Tour along the scenic harbour and through the historic areas of downtown. See picturesque Stanley Park, browse the shops at Granville Island and walk along the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
- Dinner in Vancouver
Dine at one of our favourite harbourside restaurants. Watch seaplanes land and enjoy views of the North Shore Mountains.
VIA Rail – Depart Vancouver
Board The Canadian train in Vancouver. Settle into your private cabin and watch the ever-changing scenery as you travel through beautiful British Columbia. See farmer's fields, winding river canyons, and icy forests.
- Private Transfer 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 – Arrive in Jasper
Awake to see the glistening snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies all around you, including Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies. After breakfast, step off the train in the charming mountain town of Jasper and get ready to explore Jasper National Park.
- Transfer from Train Station to Hotel
- Private Sunset Wildlife Discovery Tour
With a knowledgeable guide, learn about the creatures that call Jasper National Park home. Photograph some of the park's most beautiful places as the sunset begins to glow on the moutains.
Icefields Parkway to Banff
Enjoy a scenic transfer along the spine of the Rockies — the Icefields Parkway — recognized as one of Canada’s most beautiful routes. Each turn reveals frozen waterfalls and impossibly vast mountain valleys.
- Private Icefields Parkway Tour
See sweeping views of the snowy Canadian Rockies as your private driver takes you along the Icefields Parkway. Frozen waterfalls and snow-clad glaciers are highlights along the way.
- Tour Upgrade: Private Icefields Sightseeing with Heli-Tour (Extra Cost)
At your own pace, explore the Icefields Parkway with a private guide. Then soar above lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls on a helicopter tour.
Explore Banff
Nestled amidst the soaring peaks of Banff National Park is the town of Banff — the liveliest of the Rocky Mountain towns. The energy is contagious. It's small enough to walk around and home to world-class eateries and boutiques.
- Dogsledding Tour
Travel to the Canmore area, where you will meet a team of friendly huskies waiting to whisk you through the snowy wilderness. Harness the dogs and drive the team yourself, or simply enjoy the experience as a passenger.
- Banff Sightseeing Tour and Daytime/Evening Gondola
On a morning small-group bus tour, discover Banff’s unique heritage, enchanting folklore, and stunning backdrop in the Canadian Rockies. Choose a daytime Gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain after your tour, or take the Gondola at dusk and experience the Nightrise light show.
- Johnston Canyon Icewalk Tour
Explore Johnston Canyon with the help of ice cleats. As you wander along the catwalks built into the canyon walls, enjoy the views of the gorge below.
- Paint Pots Snowshoe Tour
Snowshoe across the frozen Vermilion River and through the forest to the Paint Pots, a cultural treasure within Banff National Park.
Travel from Banff to Jasper
Spend the morning exploring Banff. Browse the quaint local shops for souvenirs, or enjoy a scenic stroll before catching your transfer back to Jasper along the Parkway. Enjoy one more night in the Canadian Rockies.
- Suggested Add On: Banff Sleigh Ride (Extra Cost)
Take a jaunt in a horsedrawn sleigh this morning. On your return to the stables, warm up with a hot drink next to the fire.
- Transfer from Banff to Jasper
VIA Rail - Depart Jasper National Park
Board The Canadian train, wind your way out of Jasper National Park and head towards Toronto. Take in the spectacular views as you leave Canada's iconic Rocky Mountains behind.
- Transfer from Hotel to Train Station
VIA Rail – Canadian Prairies
Make your way across the undulating plains of the Prairie provinces — Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Fields blanketed in snow stretch endlessly under an immense blue sky. When you look out the window, spot rustic barns and small farming towns.
VIA Rail – The Canadian Shield
Awake in the province of Ontario and travel through the rugged landscape of the Canadian Shield. See ancient, exposed rock, wintry boreal forest, and frozen lakes — you may even spot waves frozen in the water! Keep an eye out for fishing cabins perched on small islands, as well as moose foraging.
VIA Rail - Arrive in Toronto
After travelling 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.
Depart from Toronto
Leave the clean air and colourful sights of Canada behind as your Canadian train vacation ends.
- 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
Day 1
Begin your Canadian...
Begin your Canadian Winter Vacation
Day 2
Discover Vancouver
Discover Vancouver
Day 3
VIA Rail – Depart V...
VIA Rail – Depart Vancouver
Day 4
VIA Rail – Arrive i...
VIA Rail – Arrive in Jasper
Begin your Canadian Winter Vacation
The cool, fresh air is invigorating as you start your Canadian winter train vacation. Vancouver’s relatively mild weather is a great introduction, but look to the north and discover the winter scene you’ve been dreaming of — Vancouver’s coastal mountains stand before you covered in pure white snow.
- Private Transfer from Vancouver Airport
Bypass the crowds and start making the most of your vacation. A friendly driver welcomes you to the city.
Discover Vancouver
With a mild climate and so much to do, it’s no wonder people flock to this west coast city! Explore Vancouver and the surrounding areas with one of the many activities available.
- Vancouver and Capilano Park Tour
Visit Vancouver's main attractions and neighbourhoods. Tour along the scenic harbour and through the historic areas of downtown. See picturesque Stanley Park, browse the shops at Granville Island and walk along the Capilano Suspension Bridge.
- Dinner in Vancouver
Dine at one of our favourite harbourside restaurants. Watch seaplanes land and enjoy views of the North Shore Mountains.
VIA Rail – Depart Vancouver
Board The Canadian train in Vancouver. Settle into your private cabin and watch the ever-changing scenery as you travel through beautiful British Columbia. See farmer's fields, winding river canyons, and icy forests.
- Private Transfer 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 – Arrive in Jasper
Awake to see the glistening snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rockies all around you, including Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Rockies. After breakfast, step off the train in the charming mountain town of Jasper and get ready to explore Jasper National Park.
- Transfer from Train Station to Hotel
- Private Sunset Wildlife Discovery Tour
With a knowledgeable guide, learn about the creatures that call Jasper National Park home. Photograph some of the park's most beautiful places as the sunset begins to glow on the moutains.
Icefields Parkway to Banff
Enjoy a scenic transfer along the spine of the Rockies — the Icefields Parkway — recognized as one of Canada’s most beautiful routes. Each turn reveals frozen waterfalls and impossibly vast mountain valleys.
- Private Icefields Parkway Tour
See sweeping views of the snowy Canadian Rockies as your private driver takes you along the Icefields Parkway. Frozen waterfalls and snow-clad glaciers are highlights along the way.
- Tour Upgrade: Private Icefields Sightseeing with Heli-Tour (Extra Cost)
At your own pace, explore the Icefields Parkway with a private guide. Then soar above lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls on a helicopter tour.
Explore Banff
Nestled amidst the soaring peaks of Banff National Park is the town of Banff — the liveliest of the Rocky Mountain towns. The energy is contagious. It's small enough to walk around and home to world-class eateries and boutiques.
- Dogsledding Tour
Travel to the Canmore area, where you will meet a team of friendly huskies waiting to whisk you through the snowy wilderness. Harness the dogs and drive the team yourself, or simply enjoy the experience as a passenger.
- Banff Sightseeing Tour and Daytime/Evening Gondola
On a morning small-group bus tour, discover Banff’s unique heritage, enchanting folklore, and stunning backdrop in the Canadian Rockies. Choose a daytime Gondola ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain after your tour, or take the Gondola at dusk and experience the Nightrise light show.
- Johnston Canyon Icewalk Tour
Explore Johnston Canyon with the help of ice cleats. As you wander along the catwalks built into the canyon walls, enjoy the views of the gorge below.
- Paint Pots Snowshoe Tour
Snowshoe across the frozen Vermilion River and through the forest to the Paint Pots, a cultural treasure within Banff National Park.
Travel from Banff to Jasper
Spend the morning exploring Banff. Browse the quaint local shops for souvenirs, or enjoy a scenic stroll before catching your transfer back to Jasper along the Parkway. Enjoy one more night in the Canadian Rockies.
- Suggested Add On: Banff Sleigh Ride (Extra Cost)
Take a jaunt in a horsedrawn sleigh this morning. On your return to the stables, warm up with a hot drink next to the fire.
- Transfer from Banff to Jasper
VIA Rail - Depart Jasper National Park
Board The Canadian train, wind your way out of Jasper National Park and head towards Toronto. Take in the spectacular views as you leave Canada's iconic Rocky Mountains behind.
- Transfer from Hotel to Train Station
VIA Rail – Canadian Prairies
Make your way across the undulating plains of the Prairie provinces — Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Fields blanketed in snow stretch endlessly under an immense blue sky. When you look out the window, spot rustic barns and small farming towns.
VIA Rail – The Canadian Shield
Awake in the province of Ontario and travel through the rugged landscape of the Canadian Shield. See ancient, exposed rock, wintry boreal forest, and frozen lakes — you may even spot waves frozen in the water! Keep an eye out for fishing cabins perched on small islands, as well as moose foraging.
VIA Rail - Arrive in Toronto
After travelling 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.
Depart from Toronto
Leave the clean air and colourful sights of Canada behind as your Canadian train vacation ends.
- 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.
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.
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
Often referred to as Canada's "Castle in the Rockies," the Fairmont Banff Springs is an iconic landmark in the town of Banff. Put your skating skills to the test at the hotel's ice rink, toast marshmallows by the crackling fire, or head out for a day of spectacular skiing.
Rimrock Resort Hotel
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.
Coast Coal Harbour Vancouver Hotel
The Coast Coal Harbour Hotel is close to Vancouver Harbour and Stanley Park, with views of the North Shore mountains available from some floors. Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, whirlpool, spa services, fitness centre and on-site restaurant.
Personalize This Itinerary
Here are some of the most popular ways to personalize this journey.
See the Northern Lights
Did you know that Canada is home to some of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights? Fly north from Vancouver or Calgary and land in prime aurora viewing territory. We’ll arrange it all! Your accommodations, guided lights viewing experience, dogsledding, snowmobiling, ice fishing, and more.
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.
Private Icefields Tour
Spend the day with a private guide and explore the Icefields Parkway at your own pace. Along the way, take a helicopter tour from an Icefields base and soar above aqua-green lakes, spectacular glaciers, and graceful waterfalls.
What Our Customers Say
The beautiful nature and crisp fresh air was delightful
The beautiful nature and crisp fresh air was delightful. I loved the dog sledding experience. Fun, informative and the dogs were happy and unique! Fresh Tracks was wonderful! I cou...
![Sally review of their [object Object] trip](https://cdn.bfldr.com/UAHFH8T4/as/k8rhktjmzqk7rrhpzfsrfm/Sally_501?auto=webp&format=webp&width=75)
Sally
PA, USA
We loved experiencing Canada in winter
We loved experiencing Canada in winter, meeting fellow train passengers and watching the changing scenery!
![June and Herbert review of their [object Object] trip](https://cdn.bfldr.com/UAHFH8T4/as/n9wt6rtwf8cm83ttk3n2htj/June_Herbert_392?auto=webp&format=webp&width=75)
June and Herbert
NY, USA
Perfect from start to finish
Everyone at Fresh Tracks was extremely professional and helpful, and our vacation was perfect from start to finish.
![Ann and Gene review of their [object Object] trip](https://cdn.bfldr.com/UAHFH8T4/as/m47sfjrpw5qk3c78h326gzrm/Ann_Gene_391?auto=webp&format=webp&width=75)
Ann and Gene
MO, USA
The train ride was fabulous!
We had a wonderful vacation. Organizational-wise everything went fine, the hotels are recommendable and the train ride was fabulous! The New Years Eve festivities were also a great...
![Helmut and Karin review of their [object Object] trip](https://cdn.bfldr.com/UAHFH8T4/as/2745g655mspsnvnc7sn9jf/Helmut_Karin_202?auto=webp&format=webp&width=75)
Helmut and Karin
Freising, Germany
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