Whether you want to explore more of BC before summer ends or get a front-row seat to some of the most breathtaking fall colours in the province, there are lots of scenic train rides you can take in BC. From mountainside routes to heritage railways, you’ve got plenty of options to choose from, and we’re here to share them with you.
VIA Rail
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We’re starting off with Canada’s first passenger train service, which in addition to taking passengers to cities across the country, has several BC routes to offer. Vancouver passengers can travel to Kamloops, and if you’re heading from Jasper, you can visit Prince George or Prince Rupert as well.
Note that there are several service tiers to choose from, including all-inclusive train and hotel packages.
Where: 1150 Station Street, Vancouver
Fraser Valley Heritage Railway
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Journey back in time along the original BC Electric Railway, which dates all the way back to the early days of electricity in 1910. This year, passengers can go on the popular Heritage Rail Adventure ($25 per person), which starts at the Cloverdale railway station and takes you to Discovery Centre past Honeybee hives, wildflower meadows, and historic sites.
Note that this railway operates on weekends only until October 1st.
Where: Highway 10 and 176A Street, Cloverdale
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Rocky Mountaineer
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Aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, you’ll be treated to top-of-the-line service and comfort in addition to incredible views of the Canadian Rockies. Plus, it’s the only passenger rail service to navigate through this historic rail route (First Passage to the West) – so it’s definitely worth adding to your bucket list.
On the route from Vancouver to Jasper, passengers will travel through the iconic Spiral Tunnels at the Kicking Horse Pass National Historic Site, travel across the Continental Divide, and wind through jaw-dropping mountain passes and dramatic canyons.
Passengers can also explore historic Goldrush sites and journey through lush rainforests on other routes.
Where: Multiple pick-up locations in Vancouver
Kettle Valley Steam Railway
Last but not least, we come to the Kettle Valley Steam Railway, which takes passengers through the beautiful Okanagan Valley on a 90-minute journey. Inspired by the bygone era, the railway travels through the picturesque Prairie Valley, full of scenic orchards and vineyards to colour your journey.
The restored steam locomotive rolls onto the Trout Creek Bridge with a breathtaking view of Okanagan Lake and the canyon below, and passengers are also treated to lively music and historical commentary to complete the experience.
Where: 18404 Bathville Road, Summerland
So there you have it, BC! Summer might be coming to an end, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still get out and explore our beautiful province.
