Train travel through British Columbia is nothing short of breathtaking. Rolling past towering mountain ranges, glistening emerald lakes, winding rivers, vast glaciers, and even Canada’s only semi-arid desert, the scenery alone makes train trips in B.C. an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or someone seeking the finer things in life, the province offers two very different rail experiences to suit your travel style and budget .
This guide takes a closer look at two popular train options in British Columbia – VIA Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer. Each offers distinct routes, experiences, and price points as they traverse the stunning Canadian wilderness. Let's break it down to help you decide which one is perfect for your adventure!
Why Train Travel in B.C. is Special
Not every train journey in the world is about scenic beauty—but in British Columbia, the landscapes take center stage. The rides here aren’t just transportation; they’re opportunities to immerse yourself in one of Canada’s most beautiful regions. From the rugged peaks of the Canadian Rockies to tranquil forests and shimmering alpine views, there’s simply no better way to soak it all in.
But here’s the big question: Should you choose a budget-friendly adventure or opt to travel in luxury? Below, we’ll compare the details of the two most popular train offerings in British Columbia, helping you pick the perfect option for your trip.
Budget Option - VIA Rail
If you’re looking to experience the beauty of British Columbia without breaking the bank, VIA Rail is your best bet. VIA Rail combines affordability with stunning backdrops and offers two notable routes that showcase different parts of the province.
1. Prince Rupert to Jasper
- Area Covered: Northern Rocky Mountains
- Highlights: Remote wilderness, untouched beauty, potential wildlife sightings
- Cost: $163 (no sleeper option)
This route feels like a hidden gem. You’ll explore one of the quieter corners of the Rockies. However, there’s a catch. VIA Rail doesn't offer a sleeper car, so you'll need to plan an overnight stay in Prince George. Hotel costs will need to be factored into your budget.
2. Jasper to Vancouver
- Area Covered: Canadian Rockies and down to the Pacific coast
- Highlights: High mountain peaks, cascading rivers, lush valleys
- Cost: $172 for Economy / $610 for SleeperPlus (includes meals)
This route connects the mountain town of Jasper to the bustling coastal city of Vancouver. Opt for economy for maximum affordability or choose SleeperPlus for added comfort and included meals. Keep in mind, though, that VIA Rail doesn’t stop along the way, so parts of the ride occur after sunset, meaning you could miss some of the sights. For example, in June, daylight times in Jasper stretch from 5:27 AM to 10:21 PM, while in Kamloops, they’re slightly shorter. Travel times could leave some scenic stretches in darkness.
VIA Rail is an excellent choice for budget travelers who want to prioritize affordability over added conveniences and daytime travel.
Luxury Option - The Rocky Mountaineer
If treating yourself to world-class service and luxurious comforts is part of your travel plan, the Rocky Mountaineer goes above and beyond. With gourmet food, impeccable service, and immersive sightseeing experiences, this award-winning train elevates your trip to something extraordinary.
The Rocky Mountaineer provides two key routes, both of which include an overnight stop in Kamloops, ensuring that every moment of the trip is during daylight hours.
1. Banff to Vancouver
- Area Covered: Southern Rockies and into British Columbia
- Highlights: Spectacular mountain passes, varied landscapes, semi-arid desert near Kamloops
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Cost:
- SilverLeaf Service - CAN$2,245
- GoldLeaf Service - CAN$3,065
This route begins in the picturesque town of Banff. It’s the ideal choice if you want to see the southern Rockies’ jaw-dropping vistas. You’ll pass dynamic landscapes, from dramatic mountain peaks to soft desert hills, enjoying plenty of variety. Along the way, the Rocky Mountaineer team will book your hotel for the night in Kamloops, and while dinner isn’t included, waking up refreshed for the second leg of the trip ensures every part of your ride is drenched in sunlight.
2. Jasper to Vancouver
- Area Covered: Follows the same VIA Rail route with variations
- Highlights: Canadian Rockies, Fraser Canyon, and coastal British Columbia
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Cost:
- SilverLeaf Service - CAN$2,245
- GoldLeaf Service - CAN$3,065
This route parallels VIA Rail's Jasper-to-Vancouver trip but does so in spectacular style. By breaking the trip into two daylight journeys and stopping overnight in Kamloops, the Rocky Mountaineer ensures you don’t miss a single view. Opting for SilverLeaf or GoldLeaf service determines your level of luxury, with GoldLeaf offering bi-level train cars, an exclusive dining room on board, and panoramic dome windows for unparalleled views.
From the attentive staff to the included meals and baggage handling, every aspect of the Rocky Mountaineer feels indulgent. While the price point is certainly higher, the experience justifies every dollar.
How to Compare VIA Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer
After you know these options for your solo train travel to British Columbia, you may ask what the difference is between these two options. How can you compare them and choose one? Let's compare VIA Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer across several key factors, including food, comfort, services, commentary, and sociability. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.
VIA Rail
Route Overview
- Route: Prince Rupert to Jasper (with an overnight stop in Prince George)
- Cost: $163 for this section. Additional expenses for a hotel in Prince George.
This budget-friendly option delivers stunning views of the northern Rockies, offering an authentic glimpse into quieter, more remote parts of British Columbia. However, it’s less polished in terms of onboard comfort and added services.
Comfort
The seating on VIA Rail is adequate but far from luxurious. Expect standard seats that get the job done but don’t offer extra touches like reclining features or upgraded upholstery. On the upside, you’ll get periodic opportunities to disembark, stretch your legs, and enjoy some fresh air at certain stops. This break provides a nice reset during your travels.
Scenery
The Prince Rupert to Jasper route scores a solid A- for scenery. While undeniably beautiful, it lacks the variety found on southern routes like Banff to Vancouver (offered exclusively by Rocky Mountaineer). That said, you’ll still get glimpses of jagged peaks, dense forests, and peaceful rivers, making it worthwhile for budget travelers.
Services
Unlike its luxury counterpart, VIA Rail offers limited onboard services.
- Food and drinks are self-serve, requiring you to walk to a designated kitchen area.
- Accommodation logistics are on you; you’ll need to book your Prince George hotel independently and manage your own luggage transfers.
Food
Food is a weak point. Many passengers recommend bringing your own snacks and meals to avoid disappointment. The onboard options lack variety and quality, leaving much to be desired.
Commentary
The train services manager provides informal commentary. While it’s not an official part of their job, they often take it upon themselves to share their knowledge and enthusiasm about the region. The quality of commentary depends on their passion and delivery. Overall, it’s informative but not professional-grade, earning a B rating.
Sociability
This is where VIA Rail shines. With only about 50 passengers on board, the smaller crowd fosters a sense of camaraderie. It’s easy to chat with fellow travelers, and group dynamics often lead to spontaneous social connections. On my trip, two tour groups invited me to join them for dinner in Banff later in the week! If you’re after human connection, this is a highlight of the VIA Rail experience.
Overall:
VIA Rail is a practical choice for those who prioritize affordability while still enjoying spectacular views of British Columbia’s wilderness. However, the lack of comfort and limited services may make it less appealing for travelers seeking a relaxed and pampered experience.
The Rocky Mountaineer
Route Overview
- Route: Banff to Vancouver (with an overnight stop in Kamloops)
- Cost: Starts at CAN$2,245 for SilverLeaf and CAN$3,065 for GoldLeaf service
The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxurious, all-inclusive train experience designed for travelers who see the train itself as the destination. Every aspect—from the seating to the scenic vistas—is tailored to deliver an unforgettable journey.
Comfort
Comfort levels on the Rocky Mountaineer are a step above other train services.
- SilverLeaf Service: Comfortable seats with oversized windows for panoramic views.
- GoldLeaf Service: Features bi-level train cars with plush seating on the upper level and a separate dining room below, providing the ultimate comfort for long hours of travel .
Unlike VIA Rail, the Rocky Mountaineer makes no stops for passengers to disembark mid-journey. However, the spacious interiors and thoughtful seating arrangements balance out any restlessness.
Scenery
The Banff to Vancouver route sets the gold standard for scenic beauty, earning a shining A+. Expect an incredible mix of landscapes, from soaring mountain passes to rolling valleys and even the semi-arid desert around Kamloops. The Jasper to Vancouver route (also offered by VIA Rail) is equally spectacular, though it lacks the variety featured between Banff and Vancouver.
Services
Rocky Mountaineer excels at pampering passengers with top-tier services.
- Dining: Breakfast, lunch, and two snacks are served daily, with a full bar stocked with wines from British Columbia. Portions are intentionally modest to sustain comfort during a full day of sitting.
- Hotel Logistics: Your luggage is handled seamlessly. Staff collect your bags in Banff, deliver them to your hotel in Kamloops, and ensure they’re waiting for you in Vancouver.
- Overnight Stop: Your hotel in Kamloops is pre-arranged, so all you need to do is enjoy your evening. Dinner in Kamloops is not included in the package, giving you the chance to explore local dining options.
Commentary
The onboard commentary from the Rocky Mountaineer team is in a league of its own. Each train car typically has dedicated hosts who strike the perfect balance of entertaining and informative storytelling. On my trip, Chase and Ben delivered fascinating insights while keeping the atmosphere light and engaging. Their lively tag-team approach earned them an A+ in my book.
Sociability
Interestingly, sociability is an area where the Rocky Mountaineer struggles. Despite the efforts of the hosts, the atmosphere can feel reserved. Most travelers are part of couples or family groups, and seats facing forward can make mingling awkward. There were attempts to foster interaction (such as a game of Manifest Bingo), but overall, sociability didn’t come as naturally as it did on VIA Rail.
Overall:
The Rocky Mountaineer provides a world-class rail travel experience, perfect for travelers who want every detail taken care of while soaking up uninterrupted views of B.C.’s most iconic landscapes. While it comes with a steep price tag, the level of service and comfort makes it worth every penny.
How to Choose Between VIA Rail and Rocky Mountaineer
Your choice ultimately depends on your budget, travel priorities, and preferred style of adventure.
- If you’re a budget-conscious traveler curious about train travel to Banff Canada or want an affordable, scenic experience, VIA Rail is your best bet.
- Those seeking unmatched luxury and comfort for a dream train journey from Vancouver to Banff will find the Rocky Mountaineer irresistible.
Pro Tip for Seniors:
Look out for the best Canada train tour deals for seniors. Both services occasionally offer exclusive discounts tailored to
senior travelers
.
Final Thoughts on British Columbia Train Travel
Whether you’re eyeing luxury along the famous rail from Vancouver to Banff or opting for a more budget-friendly ride, train travel in British Columbia offers an unforgettable way to explore the province’s natural beauty. The Rockies, charming small towns, and glacial lakes are bound to leave you in awe.
Whatever you choose, book early to secure your spot and prepare for an adventure filled with stunning vistas and lasting memories.
