Journey from Vancouver to Whistler: A Scenic Train Adventure

A Day Trip Packed with Scenery

Traveling by train is an exceptional way to discover the splendors of Canada. The Rocky Mountaineer Group's 'Whistler Mountaineer' service offers a round-trip journey that can be completed in just one day. Spanning six hours and covering 140 miles, this trip promises to leave an indelible mark on your memory.

The train departs northward from Vancouver, utilizing a lesser-known freight line that hugs the coastline of British Columbia, eventually arriving at the world-renowned ski resort of Whistler. Whistler is a versatile destination, bustling with activity throughout the year, from skiing to a variety of outdoor pursuits. Travelers have the option to extend their stay in Whistler, tailoring their itinerary to their preferences.

Choose Your Travel Class

North American trains are known for their size and comfort, and the Whistler Mountaineer is no exception. Passengers can select from two types of carriages: the Coast Classic and the more opulent Glacier Dome.

The journey commences from the bustling North Vancouver dockside at 8:30 am. Despite the port's activity, guests are greeted with warm hospitality by uniformed staff. As the train leaves North Vancouver, passengers can glimpse into the backyards of homes in affluent West Vancouver while enjoying a relaxed breakfast.

A Route Rich with History and Natural Beauty

As the train exits West Vancouver through a tunnel at Horseshoe Bay, the stunning scenery begins to unfold. Perched high alongside the Pacific Ocean, the train offers an onboard commentary detailing the history of the coastline and the train company. The accommodating train driver slows down at photogenic points, ensuring passengers can capture the moment.

For an immersive experience, part of the journey can be enjoyed in the Henry Pickering, an open-sided observation car commissioned in 1914. This car provides panoramic views of Howe Sound, Canada's southernmost fjord, and to the east, waterfalls fed by glaciers and valleys that remain untouched by civilization. The open carriage also allows passengers to breathe in the scents of the surrounding forest.

The Climb into the Coastal Mountain Range

Upon reaching the old logging town of Squamish, the train veers inland and begins its ascent into the coastal mountain range. It snakes along the edge of the Cheakamus Canyon, where passengers can witness a spectacular waterfall cascading down the surrounding high rocks. In the distance, the 3,000-meter peaks of Mount Garibaldi loom. The train crosses a single-track trestle bridge, offering the daring a glimpse of the raging waters below.

Exiting the canyon, the landscape opens up to reveal the quintessential Canadian postcard scene: lakes and forests nestled beneath snow-capped mountain peaks. If you're not extending your stay, a brief stopover of one and a half hours in Whistler allows for a pleasant lunch at an outdoor café before boarding the train for the return trip.

A New Perspective on the Return Journey

As the train heads back to Vancouver, leaving the mountains behind, a new vista unfolds, offering a different perspective on the landscape. This transformative experience often leaves travelers eager to continue exploring Canada by train, one of the most magnificent ways to see the country.

For more information about this journey, visit Rocky Mountaineer.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• The Rocky Mountaineer train company has won numerous awards, including the World Travel Award for "World's Leading Travel Experience by Train" multiple times.
• Whistler was one of the host locations for the 2010 Winter Olympics, which significantly increased its global profile.
• The Sea-to-Sky corridor, which the train travels along, is known for its significant biodiversity and is considered a hotspot for outdoor recreation.

To learn more about the unique experiences offered by train travel in Canada, visit VIA Rail Canada.