Frequently Asked Questions
Planning your Rocky Mountaineer® journey should be as smooth and exciting as the trip itself. Whether you’re wondering about routes, accommodations, onboard experiences, or what to pack, we’ve gathered answers to the most common questions to help you feel prepared and confident.
If you don’t find what you’re looking for, our team is always here to help!
Where does Rocky Mountaineer travel?
Rocky Mountaineer offers scenic train journeys through Western Canada and the American Southwest, showcasing some of the most breathtaking landscapes in North America.
- Canadian Routes: Travel through the Canadian Rockies, with routes connecting Vancouver, Kamloops, Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper. Along the way, witness stunning mountain peaks, glacier-fed lakes, and iconic landmarks like the Fraser Canyon, Spiral Tunnels, and Columbia Icefield.
- U.S. Route: Journey through the rugged red rock landscapes between Moab, Utah, and Denver, Colorado, passing through dramatic canyons, winding rivers, and historic rail tunnels along the way.
Every route is designed for daylight-only travel, ensuring you never miss a moment of the scenery.
How long are the train journeys?
Rocky Mountaineer journeys range from two-day rail experiences to extended multi-day adventures that allow for deeper exploration of the stunning landscapes along the way.
- Shorter Journeys (2 Days, 1 Night): These include direct routes like First Passage to the West (Vancouver to Banff/Lake Louise) and Journey Through the Clouds (Vancouver to Jasper), featuring an overnight stay in Kamloops.
- Longer Journeys (5+ Days): Extended rail packages combine multiple routes, allowing you to explore more destinations with additional nights in places like Banff, Jasper, or Vancouver. Some packages also include guided tours, excursions, and additional hotel stays before or after the train journey.
- U.S. Route (2 Days, 1 Night): The Rockies to the Red Rocks route travels between Moab and Denver, with an overnight stay in Glenwood Springs, Colorado.
VIA Rail trips vary from overnight experiences to cross-country journeys spanning several days.
When is the best time to travel?
The best time to travel depends on your preferences. Spring (April-May) offers blooming landscapes and fewer crowds, summer (June-August) provides warm weather and longer daylight hours, and fall (September-October) showcases stunning autumn colors. Each season has its unique charm, and we can help you choose the best time for your experience.
Can I customize my journey?
Absolutely! We specialize in tailor-made travel experiences. Whether you want to extend your stay, add excursions, or combine rail travel with a cruise, we’ll craft an itinerary that suits your needs.
What’s included in my package?
Our packages typically include rail tickets, onboard meals, accommodations, and optional excursions. Depending on your itinerary, we can also arrange pre- and post-trip hotels, guided tours, and cruise add-ons.
How far in advance should I book?
Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail journeys are popular, and availability can be limited, especially during peak travel months. We recommend booking at least 6-12 months in advance to secure your preferred dates and accommodations.
What’s the difference between GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf Service?
GoldLeaf Service features a bi-level dome car with panoramic windows, gourmet meals in a separate dining area, and outdoor viewing platforms. SilverLeaf Service offers single-level cars with oversized windows and delicious meals served at your seat. Both provide excellent service and breathtaking views.
For a complete comparison, check out our GoldLeaf & SilverLeaf pages.
Are meals included?
Yes, all Rocky Mountaineer journeys include gourmet meals, snacks, and beverages. GoldLeaf guests enjoy meals in an exclusive dining area, while SilverLeaf guests have them served at their seat. Special dietary requests can be accommodated with advance notice.
What kind of food is served on the train?
Rocky Mountaineer and VIA Rail offer chef-prepared meals featuring regional ingredients. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.
What type of hotels are included?
Rocky Mountaineer includes handpicked hotels ranging from comfortable, moderate stays to luxury properties like Fairmont hotels. You can choose standard accommodations or upgrade to premium hotels for a more luxurious experience.
Are excursions or activities available off the train?
Yes! You can add guided tours, sightseeing excursions, and outdoor activities like glacier walks, lake cruises, and wildlife viewing. Excursions vary by destination and can be arranged when booking your journey.
What should I pack for my trip?
Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures, and bring comfortable walking shoes for off-train activities. Essentials include sunglasses, a hat, a light jacket, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.
How does luggage handling work?
On Rocky Mountaineer, your main luggage is transported separately and delivered to your hotel each evening. You’ll only need a small carry-on bag for daily essentials. VIA Rail allows onboard luggage storage based on your ticket class.
What kind of support do you provide during my trip?
Do I need a passport for my journey?
A valid passport is required for travel between Canada and the U.S. Depending on your country of citizenship, you may also require a valid visa to cross the border.
For Canadian-only routes, no passport is needed for domestic travelers, but government-issued photo ID may be required at hotels.
Do I need travel insurance?
We highly recommend travel insurance to cover unexpected changes, medical emergencies, or trip interruptions. Our team can help you find the right coverage for your journey.
Can I bring children on the train?
Children are welcome on Rocky Mountaineer, but the experience is best suited for older children and adults who enjoy scenic travel. There are no child-specific activities onboard, and all guests must have their own seat.
Why book with us?
Our founders have traveled over 80,000 miles on the Rocky Mountaineer®, experiencing every route, service level, and scenic vista firsthand. We are your friendly experts—a boutique travel agency dedicated to crafting the perfect itinerary for your dream rail adventure.
Real experiences, genuine happiness
Create Your Dream Rockies By Rail Trip
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