All Aboard Amazing ~ Rocky Mountaineer

Rocky Mountaineer

"A land created by ice and time." 

Rocky Mountaineer offers several vacation options going beyond train travel to include helicopter tours, sightseeing tours, gondola rides, wine tours, and overnight stays in some of the most spectacular hotels in North America.  

You'll be greeted warmly by the onboard attendants in the glass-domed GoldLeaf Service train car. GoldLeaf Service is definitely what sets Rocky Mountaineer apart from any other rail experience. The GoldLeaf Dome Coach features impeccable service, excellent dining and reclining seats with spacious legroom. This elegant bi-level dome coach puts you in the middle of the awe-inspiring scenery of the Canadian Rockies. You can also take in the view from the outdoor vestibule reserved for GoldLeaf Service guests only. 

I've been fortunate enough to experience the “First Passage to the West” journey from Vancouver to Kamloops to Banff. Leaving Vancouver we traveled through the fields of the Fraser River Valley then the temperature rainforests of cedar and Sitka spruce trees. Streams meandered through and lakes dotted the landscape. We followed the Fraser River past Hell’s Gate and eventually met up with the Thompson River. The landscape changed dramatically from lush green trees to rocky canyons. We watched for osprey, eagles, bighorn sheep, and elk amongst the sagebrush. In Kamloops, we had moderate overnight accommodations. Rocky Mountaineer doesn’t travel at night so that you won’t miss any of the amazing scenery as you snooze the night away. 

The next morning we were back on the train and headed east towards Banff, continuing along the Thompson River. Along the banks of Shuswap Lake where the trees are once again green and moved up towards the peaks of the Rocky Mountains. Waterfalls cascaded down mountainsides. We wove through the Spiral Tunnels up, up, up into the clouds. Incredible snowcapped peaks could be seen at the full height through our glass domed coach. We saw moose and deer, but no bear even though they are often seen along the tracks. The scenery was absolutely breathtaking. There are just no words adequate enough to describe the sights you see from the comfort of your seat… with a glass of wine or a glass of Bailey’s in hand!

We bade a fond farewell to the Rocky Mountaineer in Banff and made the very short transfer to the Fairmont Banff Springs. Yes, this historic hotel is as grandly gorgeous as can possibly be. Truly a “Castle in the Rockies”, it is known for its stunning views and spectacular golf. According to Golf Magazine, “The Devil’s Cauldron (hole #4 on the Stanley Thompson Eighteen) is recognized as one of the top 18 holes to play in the world.” I am deeply sorry to say that I didn’t get to visit the 38,000 square feet Willow Stream Spa offering 3 waterfall treatment whirlpools, indoor European mineral pool, and outside whirlpool. Their brochure reads, “Seek rejuvenation in a land created by ice and time. This is where energy radiates and strength surges. Blue skies, snow-capped mountain peaks, emerald glacier-fed lakes, and rolling valleys gather together in a magical force. Restore your balance and find your energy.” What an eloquent description of this stunning area. 

Boarding a bus, we headed off for an afternoon of exploring Yoho National Park, making stops at the Natural Bridge and Emerald Lake before arriving at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. The clouds were low and the rain came down, but the beauty of this area cannot be disguised. The rain didn’t stop guests from renting bright red canoes and paddling across the lake for a better view of Victoria Glacier. The emerald green color of the water comes from rock flour carried into the lake by melt-water from the glaciers that overlook the lake. And it’s amazing how it shines!  

This truly was an experience that you should put on your “Bucket List”. There is no better way to see the beauty of the Canadian Rockies than to stay in the historic Fairmont hotels and ride the rails with Rocky Mountaineer's GoldLeaf service.  I felt pampered and refreshed. Ready to do it again! For more information about my journey or to create your own, please contact me. Create some awe-inspiring memories for yourself!