For two decades, the dream of riding the Rocky Mountaineer lingered, a journey consistently voted the world's best rail experience. Finally, in 2026, that long-held ambition became a reality on a two-day voyage from Vancouver to Jasper. The question remained: could this iconic trip possibly justify twenty years of anticipation and its reputation as the ultimate bucket-list adventure?
All Aboard for a Journey Through the Clouds
The adventure begins in Vancouver with a send-off fit for royalty. Bagpipers in full regalia pipe passengers onto the train, while staff wave flags as it departs. Once settled into a plush leather recliner, the spectacle unfolds through giant side and ceiling windows. The train offers two service levels: Silver Leaf and Gold Leaf. While both are luxurious, the Gold Leaf service, with its glass-dome roof, is widely considered worth the extra investment for the panoramic, unobstructed views of the epic landscape.
Between its seasonal run from April 14 to October 10, the train carries between 800 and 900 passengers and 90 crew along the Rocky Mountain trench—a geographical marvel visible from space. "I have the best office view in the world," remarked senior onboard manager Wendy McMichael, a statement few could dispute.
Wildlife, Wonders, and Warming Poutine
Onboard hosts provide engaging commentary, pointing out passing wildlife like bears and moose, and sharing local lore, including tales of Canada's own Loch Ness Monster, the Ogopogo of Lake Okanagan. The scenery is a relentless parade of Hollywood-scale vistas: dense forests, mirror-like lakes, thundering waterfalls, and landmarks like Jackass Mountain, also known as the Hill of Despair.
Between sightseeing, passengers dine on freshly prepared meals from a compact galley kitchen or mingle on the open-air observation platform. The social atmosphere is a noted highlight. "I see passengers make friends for life here," one host observed. Wendy McMichael recalled a solo traveller who befriended an entire carriage; by journey's end, her new companions had written her a commemorative poem.
The first day concludes in Kamloops, where passengers transfer to a local hotel. Here, a culinary revelation awaits: poutine. This Canadian staple of fries, cheese curds, and gravy defies its humble description to become an unforgettable comfort food experience.
Jasper's Resilience and a Grand Finale at Lake Louise
The second leg journeys towards Jasper, a town demonstrating remarkable resilience after devastating wildfires in July 2024 that burned 84,000 hectares. The community has rebuilt, with locals even using social media to track a mother bear and her cubs to safety. A guided walk with Sun Dog Tours reveals both the scars of the fire and the vigorous regrowth of berries and fauna, supporting a returning wildlife population.
The final, breathtaking stop is the iconic Lake Louise. The sheer scale of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and the frozen lake before it offers a quintessential Canadian moment: toasting marshmallows over an open fire. It's the perfect culmination before a final champagne toast to an extraordinary rail journey.
A two-day ‘Journey Through The Clouds’ package from Vancouver to Jasper via Kamloops in 2026 starts from £1,352 per person for SilverLeaf Service and from £1,835 for GoldLeaf Service. This includes all onboard meals, one night's hotel accommodation in Kamloops, and luggage handling.
