Traveling from Vancouver to Banff by train is one of the most spectacular ways to experience the Canadian Rockies. Imagine sitting in a comfortable, panoramic-view train car, watching towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and lush forests roll past your window—without the stress of driving.
This 6-day rail journey aboard VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” is a bucket-list experience that blends luxury, adventure, and breathtaking scenery. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know to plan your trip, including how to book, what to expect, itinerary highlights, and travel tips.
Why Take the Train from Vancouver to Banff?
Unparalleled Scenic Beauty
The train ride from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including:
✔ Snow-capped mountains and deep valleys
✔ Turquoise lakes, like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
✔ Alpine meadows, waterfalls, and wildlife sightings
Unlike driving, where you need to focus on the road, this relaxing rail journey allows you to sit back and take in the beauty—or even capture amazing photos from the glass-domed observation cars.
Luxury & Comfort on Board
✔ Spacious sleeper cabins for a restful overnight trip
✔ Gourmet dining with locally sourced meals
✔ Panoramic viewing cars for the best possible scenery
For travelers who prefer a stress-free, immersive experience, this scenic train ride is the perfect way to explore Canada’s rugged beauty.
Effortless & Stress-Free Travel
✔ No need to drive long hours or worry about navigating
✔ Seamless transportation from Vancouver to the Rockies
✔ Personalized service to make your journey even more comfortable
Explore Iconic Canadian Landmarks
✔ Visit Jasper, Banff, and Yoho National Parks
✔ Walk on the Columbia Icefield Glacier aboard an Ice Explorer
✔ See Lake Louise & Moraine Lake, two of Canada’s most famous lakes
6-Day Vancouver to Banff Train Itinerary
Day 1: Depart from Vancouver on VIA Rail
- Board VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” train in Vancouver
- Enjoy gourmet meals and comfortable sleeper cabins
- Watch the landscape change from coastal mountains to alpine forests
Day 2: Arrive in Jasper & Explore
- Wake up to stunning mountain views in Jasper National Park
- Spend the day visiting:
✅ Jasper SkyTram – Take in panoramic views from Whistlers Mountain
✅ Athabasca Falls – A powerful waterfall in the heart of the park - Stay overnight in Jasper
Day 3: Jasper → Maligne Canyon → Banff
- Visit Medicine Lake, famous for its disappearing waters
- Explore Maligne Canyon, the deepest limestone canyon in the Rockies
- Take a boat tour on Maligne Lake to see Spirit Island
- Drive along the Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most scenic highways
- Check in at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
Day 4: Banff → Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
- Visit Lake Louise, known for its stunning turquoise waters
- Explore Moraine Lake, surrounded by the iconic Ten Peaks
- Walk across the Natural Bridge at Emerald Lake
- Return to Banff for a relaxing evening
Day 5: Explore Banff & Surroundings
- Ride the Banff Gondola for a 360-degree view of the Rockies
- Visit Bow Falls and Surprise Point for scenic viewpoints
- Explore the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
- Hike through Johnston Canyon, known for its waterfalls and dramatic cliffs
Day 6: Banff → Peyto Lake → Columbia Icefield
- Stop at Peyto Lake, one of Canada’s most vibrant blue lakes
- Visit the Columbia Icefield and ride an Ice Explorer vehicle onto a 300-meter-thick glacier
- End your trip in Banff or Calgary, with an option to return to Vancouver by train
How to Book Your Train Journey
Step 1: Choose Your VIA Rail Class
VIA Rail offers three travel classes to suit different budgets and comfort levels:
- Economy Class – Affordable seating with access to dining options
- Sleeper Plus Class – Private cabins, fine dining, and lounge access
- Prestige Class – Ultra-luxury cabins with concierge service and VIP treatment
Step 2: Reserve Your Tickets
- Online: Book directly through VIA Rail Canada’s website
- Phone: Call VIA Rail’s customer service for assistance
- Travel Agency: Work with an agent to plan accommodations and excursions
Step 3: Depart from Vancouver’s Pacific Central Station
Your adventure starts in Vancouver, where you’ll board VIA Rail’s “The Canadian” at:
📍 Pacific Central Station (1150 Station St, Vancouver, BC)
From there, you’ll travel overnight, waking up to breathtaking views of Jasper National Park before continuing to Banff.
Best Time to Take the Train from Vancouver to Banff
✔ Spring (April–June) – Lush landscapes, fewer crowds
✔ Summer (July–September) – Warm weather, peak tourist season
✔ Fall (September–October) – Stunning autumn colors
✔ Winter (November–March) – Snow-covered landscapes, ideal for winter lovers
Where to Stay in Jasper & Banff
Jasper:
- Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge – Luxury lakeside retreat
- Pyramid Lake Resort – Cozy cabins with stunning views
Banff:
- Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – Iconic mountain castle
- Rimrock Resort Hotel – Panoramic views and spa facilities
- Moose Hotel & Suites – A modern, comfortable stay in downtown Banff
Why This Train Journey Should Be on Your Bucket List
✔ One of the Most Scenic Train Rides in Canada
✔ Luxury Meets Adventure – A perfect blend of comfort and exploration
✔ Unforgettable Photography & Relaxation – No stress, just stunning views