My Rocky Mountaineer Photo Album

Inspiring Vacations’ email marketing manager, Laura, hopped on board the Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day adventure in April. Here, some highlights of her journey

One of the most scenic luxury rail journeys, a trip aboard the Rocky Mountaineer is a must for anyone travelling through the Canadian Rockies. Be prepared for unbeatable service, stunning scenery, and good old-fashioned Canadian charm!

The Rocky Mountaineer runs from April to October and offers three routes. I travelled on the First Passage to the West route from Vancouver to Banff. The check-in is seamless and there’s a convenient luggage drop-off service (your bags will be delivered to your hotel room). The boarding call is announced by way of bagpipe.

All aboard! It’s time to leave and as we do the station staff wave us off; it’s a very sweet tradition. When you pass through towns, the locals stand on their balconies and porches and wave, so get ready to do lots of waving on this journey!

I was lucky enough to travel in GoldLeaf, an upgrade option and worth every penny! The GoldLeaf carriages are bi-level with glass domed ceilings—you’ll be treated to the most incredible views from start to finish, no matter where you sit. With very spacious seating, you’re also able to move around, with meals served in the lower-level dining area. There’s also access to the outdoor viewing area with an open-aired vestibule at the back of the carriage.

If there’s one thing that can be guaranteed, it’s that you’ll be well fed! Food and drinks are included which begins with breakfast in the morning shortly after departure, lunch, snacks and bottomless drinks. There’s nothing better than starting the day with a mimosa and relaxing in the afternoon with a Baileys infused coffee!

In GoldLeaf, meals are served in the dining room. This is a great time to bond with fellow travellers over a scrumptious feast (my favourite meal was steelhead fish with handmade gnocchi and asparagus). Our hosts did a fantastic job of pairing travellers together during meals and being on hand to make sure every dietary need was met.

Rocky Mountaineer’s impeccable service is as amazing as the sparkling rivers and snowcapped mountains you’ll pass. Armed with a microphone and radio, our hosts were in constant communication to make sure no wildlife was missed. At any given moment they would announce an “eagle overhead!” or “elk on the left!.” Knowing the route like the back of their hand, they’d give advanced warning for upcoming sights and the train slows down when passing waterfalls or crossing over gorges ensuring everyone has the chance to capture the moment.