Over a century ago, adventurous travellers spent weeks crossing the continent by rail, seeking out breathtaking landscapes they had only heard about in rumours.
Among these wonders were the majestic Rocky Mountains, whose beauty surpassed even the wildest imaginations.
Today, the Rocky Mountaineer keeps that timeless romance alive, combining it with modern comfort, luxury, and speed.
Offering incredible routes through Western Canada and the American Southwest, Rocky Mountaineer provides a rail experience unlike any other. With panoramic glass-dome coaches, gourmet meals, and stops at world-class destinations like Banff, Whistler, and Moab, the journey is as spectacular as the destinations themselves.
Onboard this premier rail experience, travellers are treated to unparalleled views of some of the most extraordinary landscapes on the continent — many of which are accessible only by train. Here are three unforgettable sights you simply have to see.
1. Pyramid Falls
Location: Pyramid Falls cascades into the North Thompson River, nestled between Blue River and Valemount, just west of Jasper National Park.
Rocky Mountaineer Route: Journey through the Clouds
The Experience: One of the highlights of the Journey through the Clouds route is Pyramid Falls, a stunning 300-foot cascade that remains virtually untouched by roads or hiking trails. This remote natural wonder, located within Pyramid Creek Falls Provincial Park, can only be fully appreciated from the comfort of Rocky Mountaineer's train.
Passengers are treated to a front-row seat to the roaring falls. Surrounded by ancient cedar forests and towering valley walls, Pyramid Falls offers a pristine, unspoiled view of nature's beauty. The train slows down as it approaches the base of the falls, allowing passengers to step onto the outdoor viewing platform to soak in the sights and feel the cooling mist from the cascade.
2. Mount Rundle and Banff National Park
Location: Mount Rundle towers over the towns of Banff and Canmore in Alberta, within the boundaries of Banff National Park.
Rocky Mountaineer Route: First Passage to the West
The Experience: Few sights are as iconic as Mount Rundle's jagged peaks rising above Banff National Park. This distinctive mountain, standing at 9,672 feet, is a favourite subject for photographers and an unmistakable sign that the train is nearing its destination.
Experience It, Rocky Mountaineer Style: The journey comes alive with storytelling from the onboard Hosts, who share fascinating tales about the region's history, wildlife, and First Nations culture. Passengers learn about the grizzlies, elk, and bighorn sheep that inhabit the area while taking in views of some of the most dramatic scenery in the Canadian Rockies. It’s an experience that’s equal parts educational and awe-inspiring.
3. The Fjords of Howe Sound
Location: Howe Sound is a network of fjords located northwest of Vancouver, British Columbia.
Rocky Mountaineer Route: Rainforest to Gold Rush
The Experience: For a glimpse of glacially carved waterways without travelling to Alaska or Norway, Howe Sound delivers in spades. On the Rainforest to Gold Rush route, Rocky Mountaineer glides past these striking fjords at a leisurely pace, allowing travelers to fully appreciate the scenery. As the world's southernmost fjords, Howe Sound is framed by rugged mountains and dotted with lush islands, creating an unforgettable visual experience.
Travelling with Rocky Mountaineer is about more than just reaching a destination. It's a journey that immerses travellers in some of the continent's most iconic and remote landscapes.
From the thunderous beauty of Pyramid Falls to the majestic peaks of Mount Rundle and the serene fjords of Howe Sound, each route offers a unique window into the wonders of North America.
With the perfect blend of luxury, history, and natural beauty, Rocky Mountaineer delivers an unforgettable rail experience that will leave you dreaming of your next adventure!
