First Passage to the West
Vancouver to Banff Train
On this two-day luxury rail experience between Vancouver and Lake Louise or Banff, you will travel through the legendary Spiral Tunnels, traverse the Continental Divide, and be inspired as you wind through mountain passes and dramatic canyons. Experience the only passenger rail service on this historic rail route by Rocky Mountaineer, celebrated for connecting Canada from East to West.
Enjoy gourmet, made-to-order breakfasts and lunches paired with local beers, wines, and cocktails all inspired by the diverse flavors and local ingredients of Western Canada as you look forward to your stay in the majestic Rocky Mountains.
An overnight stay in a Kamloops hotel is included in your two-day rail ticket along with rail station transfers, onboard gratuities, and more!
Rocky Mountaineer Vancouver to Banff
Day One - Vancouver Departure
Train from Vancouver to Kamloops
Your journey begins at the Rocky Mountaineer station situated in the beautiful coastal city of Vancouver, famous for its backdrop of snow-capped mountains and glistening ocean waters.
Start the day taking in views throughout the Fraser Valley before being served a delicious breakfast that warms you to the core. From fertile greenery, the landscape transforms to the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains.
You’ll see the mighty Fraser River and the raging whitewater of Hell’s Gate. Sit down to a three-course lunch prepared by our onboard chefs as your Hosts entertain you with stories about the region.
After a full day on the train, disembark in the charming town of Kamloops –the perfect place to take a soothing stroll along the riverside.
Day Two - Lake Louise / Banff Arrival
Train from Kamloops to Lake Louise / Banff
From Kamloops, you’ll continue to wind your way eastward through the Shuswap region, with stunning lake views all the way.
Throughout the morning, you’ll be treated to breakfast and coffee as you awaken your senses to your newfound surroundings.
As the train ascends, so will your sense of wonder. Before you know it, you’ll be surrounded by mountains that stretch up to the sky, enjoying the view with a glass of wine in hand. Enjoy a gourmet lunch inspired by the diverse flavours and local ingredients of Western Canada as you look forward to your Banff arrival. Hear about the incredible history of the railway and the landmarks along the way.
In Banff, discover a delightful combination of rugged mountains, lush parks with postcard scenery and wildlife you’ll need to see to believe.
Tours Featuring Rocky Mountaineer's First Passage to the West Route
Rocky Mountaineer: Vancouver to Banff Rail
A spectacular two-day all-daylight journey onboard the Rocky Mountaineer in your choice of SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf Service. Includes hotel accommodation in Kamloops.
Rockies Passage: Eastbound
This quick 4-day tour takes you aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer for two full days along the historic Canadian Pacific Railway route from Vancouver to Banff National Park. While enjoying…
Rockies Passage Plus: Eastbound
On this 5-day tour through the Canadian Rockies, you will experience two days of world-class service aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. As you travel from the shores of the Pacific Ocean through…
Rockies Essentials: Eastbound
This 6-day tour will show you all the essential locations you need to see in the Canadian Rockies and takes you aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer for two full days along the historic Canadian…
Lake Louise Explorer: Eastbound
A truly relaxing one-week getaway, taking you deep into the Canadian Rockies from the stunning city of Vancouver on Canada’s West Coast. You will have spectacular views of magnificent mountains,…
Rocky Mountaineer: Banff to Vancouver Rail
A spectacular two-day all-daylight journey onboard the Rocky Mountaineer in your choice of SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf Service. Includes hotel accommodation in Kamloops.
Rockies Passage: Westbound
This quick 4-day tour takes you aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer for two full days along the historic Canadian Pacific Railway route from Banff National Park to Vancouver. While enjoying…
Rockies Passage Plus: Westbound
On this 5-day tour through the Canadian Rockies you will experience two days of world-class service aboard the Rocky Mountaineer. The trip begins with two nights in Banff, a mountain resort town rich…
Rockies Essentials: Westbound
This 6-day tour will show you all of the essential locations you need to see in the Canadian Rockies with stays in Banff and Lake Louise. See mountains, lakes, and waterfalls, from the peaks of the…
Lake Louise Explorer: Westbound
A truly relaxing 7-day getaway, taking you deep into the Canadian Rockies. Starting from Calgary you will spend one night in Banff and two nights at the exquisite Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise before…
Rockies Kananaskis Golf
This 7 day, 6 night tour is highlighted by a two day train ride on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff, 4 nights at Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, and 3 rounds of mountain golf. Available…