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Banff

Banff, Alberta

Quintessentially Canadian

Nestled into the Bow Valley corridor in Banff National Park, this idyllic mountain town has a rich legacy as the crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies and one of the world's most awe-inspiring destinations. From turquoise-hued glacial lakes to breathtaking natural hot springs, there's something for everyone to be found in Banff. 

Canadian Rockies behind a misty lake in Banff, Alberta

The Heart of the Rockies

Banff, Alberta is a destination that promises to captivate your senses and leave you in awe of nature's grandeur. From the moment you step foot in town, you'll be greeted by mountains that seem larger than life, crystal-clear lakes, and lush alpine forests.  

Canada's first National Park isn't just about breathtaking landscapes. Whether it's the vibrant arts and culture scene or cozy mountain lodges, Banff offers something for every visitor - a chance to connect with the wild beauty of the Rockies.

Travel Tips & Recommendations

Make the most of your visit to Banff, Alberta with these helpful articles, tips, and recommendations carefully curated by our travel experts.

Lake near Banff

When Is the Best Time to Visit Banff?

Find the best time to visit Banff with this guide to seasonal highlights and activities in the Canadian Rockies. 

Hikers enjoy views of Moraine Lake, Banff

How to Spend 48 Hours in Banff National Park

From guided tours to solo excursions, find out our favourite ways to explore the beauty of Banff National Park.   

View of Cascade Mountain and Banff

Why Visit Banff, Alberta?

Let us help you plan the journey of a lifetime to Banff with our recommended activities, attractions, and things to do.

Banff Gondola

Top Things to Do in Our Canadian Destinations

From the beauty of Banff to the urban charm of Vancouver, learn about our must-visits to explore in each Canadian destination.

Discover Banff on Two Unique Rail Routes

Journey through the iconic Spiral Tunnels, traverse the Continental Divide, and be inspired by breathtaking sights as you wind through dramatic mountain passes and canyons on your way to or from Banff. 

Rocky Mountaineer train passing over a bridge

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First Passage to the West

  • Vancouver
  • Kamloops
  • Lake Louise
  • Banff

Our only route that travels to Banff and Lake Louise, journeying between Vancouver and the untouched wilderness of the Rocky Mountains.   

Landmarks & Viewpoints
Hell’s Gate
Cisco Crossing
Jaws of Death Gorge
Stoney Creek Bridge
Spiral Tunnels
Castle Mountain
Mount Rundle
VIEW SELECT ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
VIEW SELECT ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
Vancouver
Vancouver

Board Rocky Mountaineer in the urban oasis of Vancouver and journey through the farmlands of the Fraser Valley. 

Kamloops lake
Kamloops Lake

The scenery undergoes a dramatic shift as you find yourself amid a desert landscape peppered with sagebrush, winding alongside the idyllic Kamloops Lake. 

Kamloops
Kamloops

Stop in the quiet town of Kamloops BC, where you will overnight at a hotel. 

Train going over Stoney Creek Bridge
Stoney Creek Bridge

Continue east into Glacier National Park and cross the stunning Stoney Creek Bridge, getting a bird’s-eye view over 250 feet above the valley below. 

Red canoes in the water at Lake Louise
Lake Louise

Take in the brilliant mineral waters of Lake Louise - a global symbol of the Rockies and home to the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Note: Only some packages end in Lake Louise.
The lake is not viewable from the train. 

Guest takes photo from GoldLeaf outdoor viewing platform of Castle Mountain.
Castle Mountain & Mount Rundle

Catch glimpses of the famous Castle Mountain and Mount Rundle as you enter the Rocky Mountains, gazing at cascading waterfalls, icy glaciers, and peaks towering above the train windows.

Banff township
Banff

Located in Banff National Park, this famous mountain town offers everything from healing hot springs and gondola rides to a thriving culinary & shopping scene. The famous Cascade Mountain towers over the town no matter where you are. 

PTP map

Passage to the Peaks

  • Jasper
  • Kamloops
  • Lake Louise
  • Banff

Depart from Banff and journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, passing highlights such as Stoney Creek Bridge and the impressive Mount Robson, en route to Jasper. 

This route can be taken either westbound or eastbound.  

Landmarks & Viewpoints
Mount Rundle
Rogers Pass
Shuswap Lake
Moose Lake
Castle Mountain
Spiral Tunnels
Pyramid Falls
Mount Robson
VIEW SELECT ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
VIEW SELECT ROUTE HIGHLIGHTS
Banff township
Banff

Located in Banff National Park, this famous mountain town is an unforgettable destination. No matter where you are, the imposing Cascade Mountain towers over the town.* 

*This route can be taken in either direction - start or end your journey in either Banff or Jasper. 

Mount Rundle
Mount Rundle

See the famous Mount Rundle in Banff National Park, gazing at cascading waterfalls, icy glaciers, and towering peaks.  

Red canoes in the water at Lake Louise
Lake Louise

Take in the brilliant waters of Lake Louise, a global symbol of the Rockies and home to the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.*  

*Only select packages stop in Lake Louise. The lake is not viewable onboard the train. 

Castle Mountain
Castle Mountain

Experience panoramic views of the rugged Castle Mountain between Banff and Lake Louise, named in 1858 for its fortress-like appearance.   

Kamloops
Kamloops

Stop in the quiet town of Kamloops BC, where you will overnight at a hotel.    

Pyramid Falls
Pyramid Falls

Step onto our outdoor viewing platform and feel the cool spray of Pyramid Falls on your face. Access to the falls is impossible by road – but our train takes you right up to the glacier-fed waterfalls.   

Mount Robson
Mount Robson

Before gliding past the teal-green lakes in Jasper National Park, look up at Mount Robson – the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies. At almost 4,000 metres, this mountain is so large it has its own weather system. 

Maligne Lake
Jasper

Explore every corner of this quaint mountain town, nestled in the heart of Northern Alberta. Discover local hiking trails, hidden lakes, and the famous Jasper Park Lodge.* 

*This route can be taken in either direction - start or end your journey in either Banff or Jasper. 

What’s Included with our Rail Journeys

From the moment you step foot onboard, your journey to Banff will be as comfortable as it is unforgettable.  

Guests looking through glass-dome.

Glass-Dome Coaches

Custom-designed train coaches provide panoramic views of stunning landscapes. Or, get a bit closer by stepping into the outdoor viewing area.  

Alberta Striploin steak and salmon with scenery Stoney Creek out the window. GoldLeaf Culinary 2023

Gourmet Dining

Dine on delicious, regionally-inspired cuisine that features local ingredients and flavours while our world-class onboard Host team takes care of your every need. 

Image must be used for promoting Rocky Mountaineer only.

All-Daylight Train

See the sights by day, sleep in a hotel at night. There are no sleeper cars onboard – stay in comfortable accommodations at each destination.

Host in GoldLeaf dome.

World-Class Hospitality

From refilling your wine glass to sharing stories and helping with special requests, our Hosts provide an unforgettable onboard experience. 

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Start Planning Your Journey

Inspired to learn more about our routes and destinations? Download our digital brochure to start planning an unforgettable journey through the Canadian Rockies. 

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