FIRST PASSAGE TO THE WEST

“This is a fabulous way to see the Canadian Rockies, which were magnificent. The views from the railroad are unlike anything you see by car, including the spiral tunnels. The staff were personable and helpful, the food was every bit as good as we had heard, and the views were spectacular.”

— Guest, 2022 – TripAdvisor Review

Our most popular rail route, First Passage to the West retraces the steps of the 19th century explorers who first marvelled at this untamed wilderness, and gives a living history lesson on the building of a nation.

Train Day 1 Train Day 2

Board Rocky Mountaineer in the urban oasis of Vancouver, British Columbia, and journey through the fertile farmlands of the Fraser Valley. Watch as the landscape transforms into the towering peaks of the Coast Mountains. You’ll see the mighty Fraser River and the whitewater of Hell’s Gate. Soon, the scenery undergoes another dramatic shift and you’ll find yourself amid a desert-like landscape peppered with sagebrush. The day’s journey comes to a stop in the city of Kamloops, where you will overnight at a hotel.

Your mountain adventure continues as you travel east along the South Thompson River. You’ll see historic Craigellachie, which marks the spot where the Last Spike was driven home on the Canadian Pacific Railway line, uniting a nation. You’ll gaze in wonder at cascading waterfalls and icy glaciers spilling over the lips of the peaks above, on your way to the charming alpine town of Banff and the brilliant waters of Lake Louise. And all of this is yours to savour from the comfort of your luxurious Rocky Mountaineer coach.