Rocky Mountaineer: A Breathtaking Adventure

In July 2024, I had the incredible opportunity to experience the majestic Canadian Rockies aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer—a familiarization (FAM) trip with 36 fellow travel professionals from across the U.S. and Canada. This unforgettable adventure combined world-class rail travel, dramatic mountain scenery, and the warm hospitality of Canada’s western provinces.

Calgary: Gateway to the Rockies

I arrived in Calgary a day early and stayed at the Calgary Marriott Downtown, giving me time to explore the vibrant heart of the city. I strolled through Olympic Plaza, admired the city’s modern public library, and took in colorful floral displays all around. I even went to the top of Calgary Tower for panoramic city views and enjoyed a little shopping in the charming downtown.

The next day, we moved to the Hyatt Regency Calgary, where I toured the beautiful property before an official welcome from the Calgary Tourist Board. During the breakfast reception, each of us was presented with a white cowboy hat—a cherished Calgary tradition since 1950. Through the city’s iconic White Hat Ceremonies, Calgarians have welcomed visiting dignitaries, celebrities, and now travel professionals, as a symbol of hospitality and community. It was a meaningful moment that made us feel not just like guests, but honorary members of Calgary’s extended family.

Banff and Lake Louise: Postcard-Perfect Sights

At 10:00 AM, we began a full-day sightseeing journey with Brewster Sightseeing, heading toward Banff. Highlights included a scenic Minnewanka Lake Cruise, a ride up the Banff Gondola for sweeping mountain views, and photo ops at Bow Falls. We passed the historic Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and checked into the cozy Moose Hotel & Suites for two nights. Exploring Banff’s walkable main street, enjoying ice cream, and dining in local restaurants made our stay even more memorable.

The next day took us to Lake Louise, where we explored the elegant Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and walked along the stunning lakeshore. From there, we continued to the striking turquoise waters of Moraine Lake. Our journey then led us into Yoho National Park, where we saw the Spiral Tunnels, a marvel of railway engineering. We also made scenic stops at Emerald Lake and the Natural Rock Bridge over the Kicking Horse River.

Icefields Parkway & Jasper: Glacier Adventures and Evacuation Drama

Our fourth day was packed with awe-inspiring sights as we traveled along the Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most scenic drives. Highlights included Bow Lake, Athabasca Falls, and a rare bear sighting. At the Columbia Icefield, we rode an Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier, walked the Glacier Skywalk, and had lunch at the visitor center before continuing to Chateau Jasper for two nights.

The following day brought more natural wonders—Medicine Lake, Maligne Canyon, and a cruise on Maligne Lake to the iconic Spirit Island. Though wildfire smoke hung in the air, it gave my photo of Spirit Island an eerie, fog-like beauty. We capped the day with a visit to the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge where we toured the property.

That night, however, took a dramatic turn. Wildfires had erupted near Jasper, and by 10:00 PM, the town was under evacuation orders. By midnight, we were on a bus to the small town of Valemount, where the New Life Centre church welcomed us with open arms and hot food. We rested there until 1 PM before continuing to Kamloops for two nights—first at the Delta Hotel, then at the Sandman. In Kamloops, we relaxed by the river, watched lawn bowling, and even caught a sunset concert in the park—an unexpected and heartwarming experience.

All Aboard the Rocky Mountaineer

On Day 8, we finally boarded the Rocky Mountaineer, and what an experience it was! The team added an extra GoldLeaf Service railcar just for our group. We enjoyed exceptional onboard service, gourmet meals in the dining car, panoramic views from the dome coach, and plenty of time in the outdoor viewing platform to soak up the Canadian wilderness.

We arrived in Vancouver that evening and checked into the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver, a fitting end to a luxurious journey.

Vancouver: A West Coast Gem

Our final two days were spent exploring this coastal city. We visited Canada Place, watched sea planes land in the harbor, and visited the Olympic Cauldron, which just happened to be lit for the opening ceremony of the Summer Olympics. We also marveled at the immersive FlyOver Canada experience, crossed the thrilling Capilano Suspension Bridge, saw totem poles in Stanley Park, browsed the Granville Island Market, and wrapped up with a scenic trip to Grouse Mountain before flying home.

This incredible FAM trip reminded me why I love what I do. The Rocky Mountaineer is more than a train—it's an immersive luxury journey that pairs nature’s grandeur with thoughtful hospitality. If you’re dreaming of the Canadian Rockies, I’d love to help you plan a journey as unforgettable as mine.