I rode the 'best train in the world' through Canada and here's a look at my 20 hour journey

The opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Narcity Media.

This train ride in Canada takes you past enchanting waterfalls, through rocky tunnels and past towering mountains for a breathtaking adventure.

I recently took a trip on Rocky Mountaineer, a two-level, glass-domed train with four routes through Canada and the U.S. The luxury train showcases some of the country's breathtaking scenery and allows you to enjoy panoramic views as you travel.

The train was even named the best in the world by Travel + Leisure in 2023.

I spent two days on board this majestic train and here's a look at what the experience is like.

On board Rocky Mountaineer.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The route

Rocky Mountaineer offers four routes — three in Western Canada and one in the U.S. I took the Journey Through The Clouds route, which begins in Vancouver and ends in Jasper.

The two-day trip whisked me away through the Fraser Valley, into Kamloops and around snow-capped mountains. The train only operates during the day so I was able to enjoy the ever-changing landscapes.

I was on board for roughly 10 hours per day, but the length of the trip can vary depending on traffic.

Rocky Mountaineer in Jasper.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The other routes offered by Rocky Mountaineer include First Passage to the West (Vancouver – Lake Louise or Banff), Rainforest to Gold Rush (Vancouver – Jasper, via Whistler and Quesnel) and Rockies to the Red Rocks (Denver – Moab, USA).

Aboard the train

One of the most unique aspects of the trip is the train itself. The glass-domed coaches had me feeling like I was floating through the majestic landscapes as we travelled.

I was riding in GoldLeaf Service, which features a "spacious, bi-level glass-dome coach with unparalleled views on the upper level and a dining area on the lower level."

Second level of Rocky Mountaineer.Courtesy of Rocky Mountaineer

Upon boarding the train, I made my way up a small staircase to the panoramic upper level. There's no room for carryons on board, as most of the space is reserved for the stretching glass windows that totally immerse you in the passing scenery.

You won't find typical train seats on this journey. These cushy chairs are more like something you'd find in your living room and come with heating as well as a reclining option. They even have the ability to turn 180 degrees so you can socialize with your friends.

Madeline sitting on board Rocky Mountaineer.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

On the lower level, you'll discover the dining room, which is complete with booths and large windows so you don't miss out on the views.

The dining car.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The bathrooms are also located on the lower level. I was picturing a cramped space similar to an airplane bathroom and was surprised to find spacious rooms with modern amenities.

A bathroom on board.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The observation deck is the perfect spot to enjoy the views and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

The observation deck.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The food

There are no plastic-wrapped sandwiches or frozen meals here. Rocky Mountaineer serves up drool-worthy dishes made with locally sourced products inspired by the regions the train travels through.

Tuna dish served on board.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The meals are served in the lower-level dining room in GoldLeaf Service and at your seat in SilverLeaf Service.

The menu changes annually to showcase new flavours from the regions the train passes through. I indulged in meals like chia pudding and pancakes for breakfast, as well as tuna for my three-course lunch.

Pancakes.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

Between meals, you can enjoy unlimited snacks and sip beverages like signature cocktails, wine and hot chocolate, all of which are included in the price of the trip.

The accommodations

Since the train only operates during the day, the trip includes some overnight stays in hotels. The company partners with hotels in each destination and venues are "pre-selected and determined by your chosen service level," according to the website.

I enjoyed a stay at the Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver before my departure, which offers gorgeous water and mountain views.

Room at the Fairmont Waterfront in Vancouver.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

In Kamloops, I stayed at the Delta Hotel before embarking on the last leg of the train ride.

The journey finished in Jasper, where we were whisked away to the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, my favourite hotel of the trip.

Located on a turquoise lake in Jasper National Park, the rustic yet luxurious venue features a series of cozy cabins and was even showcased on an episode of The Bachelor.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The accommodation includes complimentary luggage delivery when you book through Rocky Mountaineer, meaning you don't have to worry about carrying your heavy bags around with you.

The overall experience

This trip had me feeling like royalty. The experience began at the Vancouver station where a piper led us to the awaiting coaches. The "red carpet" was rolled out and once we were on board and seated, we got a wave-off from the staff at the station.

Madeline by Rocky Mountaineer.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

As we travelled through small towns and communities, many people stopped to watch and wave at the train.

In GoldLeaf Service, each coach has up to four hosts who offer beverage and snack service as well as information about the areas you are travelling through.

Madeline holding a book.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

There is no Wi-Fi and limited reception on board, meaning you can totally unplug. I enjoyed the break from social media and the countless notifications that typically come with it.

I was even able to get through a few books I'd been meaning to read, glancing up from the pages every so often to soak up the views.

The views were my favourite part

I was constantly in awe of the landscapes we passed through. The Journey Through The Clouds route is only accessible by train, so you get to see all sorts of beautiful natural wonders and hidden gems that aren't otherwise reachable.

Scenery from the train.Courtesy of Rocky Mountaineer

Some highlights include Hell's Gate in B.C., where you'll find towering rock walls and a treacherous stretch of the Fraser River as well as the magnificent Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.

Train travelling through mountains.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

My very favourite view was Pyramid Falls. This majestic B.C. cascade is hidden amidst a cedar forest and looks like something out of a fairytale.

Pyramid Falls.Courtesy of Rocky Mountaineer

The train travelled right up to the base of the falls — a vantage point only accessible by rail. I could actually feel the cool mist of the falls on my skin as I gazed out of the observation deck.

The price

The price for a trip aboard Rocky Mountaineer varies depending on the package you book. The Journey Through The Clouds route starts at $2,272 per person.

View from the train.Madeline Forsyth | Narcity

The packages include train travel, meals aboard the train, hotel accommodations and luggage handling and rail station transfers, as well as activities and experiences in some cases.

Rocky Mountaineer is a truly magical experience and one I'll remember for a lifetime. It's a stunning way to explore Canada and soak up all the amazing scenery along the way.

Rocky Mountaineer Journey Through The Clouds

Rocky Mountaineer Train.

Courtesy of Rocky Mountaineer

Price: $2,272 + per person

When: Mid-April to mid-October

Rocky Mountaineer website

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.

Rocky Mountaineer offered Madeline Forsyth the opportunity to experience the Journey Through The Clouds route with no expectation of coverage, positive or otherwise.
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