Rocky Mountaineer 6-Day Vancouver to Rockies Train Tour — Banff, Jasper & Icefields Parkway
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in average fitness; expect short hikes, stairs and walking at viewpoints but no technical exertion.
Overview
Ride panoramic railcars from Vancouver into the heart of the Canadian Rockies, then explore Banff, Yoho and Jasper by guided coach. This six-day itinerary pairs luxury train service with glacier walks, iconic lakes and scenic drives along the Icefields Parkway.
Rocky Mountaineer 6-Day Vancouver to Rockies Train Tour — Banff, Jasper & Icefields Parkway
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The dome car has a way of reorienting time: morning light slips across the Fraser River, and the cityscape behind you shrinks to a line of glass and timber while mountains swell on the horizon. On day one the Rocky Mountaineer eases out of Vancouver, café steam and the low murmur of travellers settling in, and then the landscape begins to change—fields, then river canyons, and finally the sharp, patient geometry of the Coast and Cascade ranges.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive early at Vancouver Station
Plan to be at the station at least 60 minutes before departure for check-in and boarding; seating and luggage are assigned on arrival.
Dress in layers
Mountain weather changes rapidly—mornings on the train can be cool while afternoons on the Icefields Parkway warm; pack a windproof layer.
Carry a small daypack
Bring water, snacks, and a lightweight rain shell for short walks like Johnston Canyon and Peyto Lake viewpoints.
Be wildlife-aware
Keep distance from elk, bighorn sheep and bears, and follow your guide’s instructions—never feed or approach animals.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Bighorn sheep
History
The rail route traces the last spike era of the Canadian Pacific Railway and opened the Rockies to tourism and settlement in the late 19th century.
Conservation
Parks Canada manages sensitive habitats—stay on designated trails, pack out waste, and follow bear-safety protocols to minimize impact.
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Adventure Hotspots in Banff
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered outerwear
A breathable midlayer and waterproof shell handle mountain sun, wind and sudden rain.
Sturdy walking shoes
Supportive shoes with good traction are ideal for short hikes, boardwalks and uneven viewpoints.
Daypack with water bottle
Keeps essentials accessible during stops—water, snacks, camera, and rain protection.
Telephoto lens or binoculars
Helpful for wildlife viewing and capturing distant glaciers and ridgelines from viewpoints.