VIA Rail is Canada's eco-friendly passenger rail service, offering comfortable travel across the country with stunning views. The train offers various classes of travel, including economy seats and sleeper cabins, with onboard amenities such as dining cars and lounge areas.
Know Before You Go: Canada
Read below for helpful information regarding traveling by train through Canada.
Entering Canada
Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry both proof of citizenship and proof of identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens. Please see the Canada Government Travel website for further details.
Anyone with a criminal record (including misdemeanors or alcohol-related driving offenses) may not be able to enter Canada without first obtaining approval well in advance of any planned travel. For further details, please refer to the Canada Government Travel website.
If You're Staying in Jasper, Banff, or Lake Louise
Transportation
Taxis are not always readily available, and ride-share is not available in Alberta. If you are not comfortable with the short walk to your hotel upon arrival at the VIA Rail station, please contact your hotel in advance and they can arrange for a taxi to pick you up at the station. This is especially recommended for guests staying at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, as it is not possible to walk to your hotel. If you are arriving or departing Rocky Mountaineer, you will have a complimentary transfer already arranged for you to and from your hotel.
Sightseeing
Many sightseeing tours require calling in advance to confirm the meeting location or pick-up time, as the details may change from the time of booking, or they may have different hotel stops for other travelers on the tour that they need to adjust the routing. Please refer to the instructions on your travel vouchers.
Banff
Banff offers The Roam transit shuttles throughout much of Banff townsite, and there are bus stops near just about any spot you want to get to. There are also stops either right in front of, or a short walk from, all hotels. Many hotels may offer complimentary shuttle passes, just ask at the front desk. Alternatively, a day pass is only a few dollars which can be bought onboard with Canadian or America bills and coins. You can also purchase a pass at the Banff Town Hall or at the Roam Customer Service Desk inside the Banff Visitor Centre.
If you have booked the Banff Gondola, we recommend that you use the Roam transit shuttle to get to and from the gondola, as there is a stop just outside the entrance.
You can view schedules and plan your journeys here: https://roamtransit.com/
Rail Lines in Canada
For more details on your train journeys, please click below.
Rocky Mountaineer offers luxury train travel through the Canadian Rockies. Onboard Rocky Mountaineer, passengers enjoy luxurious seating with panoramic views, gourmet meals, engaging commentary, and personalized service.