The Rocky Mountaineer train snakes in and out of valleys of the majestic Canadian Rocky Mountains. Riding through the Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer train is the best way to see one of the God’s greatest creations. British Columbia and Alberta are two of the prettiest places on the planet but in order to see much of the best views, you have to go by train. Unless you work for Canadian National, the Rocky Mountaineer is the best way to go!
I boarded the Rocky Mountaineer train in Vancouver, British Columbia and my destination after 2 days of travel was Jasper, Alberta. I sat in the Goldleaf Cabin; which is essentially their first class cabin.
It was fabulous to say the least. Not only for the views but for the world-class service and I really mean that. The Rocky Mountaineer staff are pretty much amazing at what they do and make you feel right at home at all times.
The glass-domed roof in Goldleaf service is great for viewing the scenery and is the best way to do the trip. However, it is not without faults. Often times, there was a bad reflection in the pictures that I took so many did not come out very well. This obviously couldn’t be helped but it was a bit annoying.
Additionally, the cabins are extremely comfortable and the seats are great. This is great because each of the two days, you spend about ten hours or so in the cabin. The only problems with the cabin are that there are not outlets at your seat and only one per cabin. There is also no Wi-Fi.
That said, on a 10-hour journey, you need to recharge, phones, cameras, computers, etc. I mentioned that to the staff and they said the lack out outlets and Wi-Fi are the top two complaints. It would be tough to complain about anything else, as everything else was stellar.
The other great thing about riding through the Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer train is the food. Breakfast and lunch are served each day and the food is fabulous. Goldleaf service cars have 3-4 chefs per car. Aside from the food, the service is also excellent.
There are two seatings each for lunch and dinner and the dining area is downstairs. The dining car is still equipped with huge clear windows so you don’t miss any of the great scenery.
As I mentioned, it is a 2-day journey but you don’t sleep on the Rocky Mountaineer. We stopped overnight in a place called Kamloops, British Columbia. Kamloops is a nice little town that is fine for a night or so. There isn’t a ton going on but it was certainly pleasant for a night.
There was a ‘music in the park’ concert that I checked out while I was there and there is a nice little beach area at the edge of the park. I was told that Kamloops has some good trails for mountain biking and hiking but I didn’t get a chance to do it.
It is worth noting I ate at a pretty good restaurant/bar called the Noble Pig. Notable because it was good but also because it was designed after the Spotted Pig in New York; which is right by my apartment back home.
This was basically the theme of my experience on the Rocky Mountaineer; amazing service, great scenery and a stop in Kamloops. It wasn’t perfect but it was a cool experience I am glad I had a chance to do.
Disclaimer: I was hosted by the Rocky Mountaineer for this journey. All opinions expressed are my own and have not been influenced in any way. I did use three pictures from their media kit for this article but all others are my own.
Riding Through the Canadian Rockies on the Rocky Mountaineer Train
July 7, 2013 by 19 Comments
I can see the reflection thing being a pain. I’ve had that before on scenic bus tours I’ve done too. Not much you can do about it as you said. You really can’t do a doble decker bus tour thru the mountains! Great post as always, Lee.
Thanks Randy, ya it could be annoying but as I said, what can you do…besides the views were still amazing!
Great Post! Glad to hear you enjoyed your time on the Rocky Mountaineer – it really is a stunning journey. We are actually from Kamloops and happy to hear you thought it was ok! Everything really worth doing in and around Kamloops necessitates a car and at least a 30 minute drive, but Riverside Park is a great place to cool down in the heat of summer. The noble Pig is definitely one of the better places for a meal in town.
Thanks guys and yes both the Noble Pig and Riverside Park were very nice. I am sure it’s a nice place to be but only got a taste obviously.
Great post, Lee. Looks like an amazing ride. I googled the train and I would definitely consider doing it when I visit Western Canada. Is Goldleaf service worth the extra cost?
Elizabeth, Goldleaf is the only way to go on the train…the service is what makes the train so special to be honest.
Kamloops is a great city. It’s too bad you didn’t get to experience more of it but glad you got to see the park and the beach.
Ya Darren, I hear its fun and have no doubt the areas around it are great but was only there for 12 hours or so for the night
Sounds like a cool way to see BC and Alberta. Probably a little too expensive for my blood but I would love to get out to the western provinces sometime soon.
Matthew, I hope you do get out to see them, they are great!
Stunning photos. Seems romantic but it also sounds like it would be a lot of tourists and elderly people.
Erika, all of those statements are correct!
Lee, I love the honest post. It’s nice to hear you point out the positive and the negatives and not just sugar coat everything-I hate when people do that if they’ve been comped something. Thanks!
Thanks Beth, I appreciate that! I always try to be fair and honest and just say what I think and what I experienced.
Have always wanted to try out the Rocky Mountaineer. Looks like a great time. Love how honest you are about the pros and cons. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks Debbie, hope you get a chance to do the trip, and when you do, let me know how it goes!
Love the glass domed car!
Thank you for the mention of our little brewpub. I hope to eat at the Spotted Pig in the near future:) Glad you enjoyed the trip.
Cheers,
Maeghan Summers
Sounds like you’ve got an amazing rocky mountaineer journey. You stories have definitely increased my wanderlust to get up and explore Canada. The views look absolutely amazing, Enjoy reading your adventure. I am from the Philippines and my country is a far away from Canada. I wish one day I can also experience a rocky mountain trip.