There’s no better way to explore Canada’s vast and awe-inspiring wilderness in style than taking a summer train journey. From the untamed beauty of British Columbia and the magnificent Rocky Mountains, to the coastal charm of Nova Scotia and remote river canyons in Northern Quebec, train journeys connect some of Canada’s most unique landscapes into one seamless itinerary.
Summer is the ideal season to venture into the deep recesses of the Canadian wilderness, thanks to mild temperatures that allow travelers access to regions that could otherwise be inaccessible due to snow. There’s also abundant daylight to absorb the unforgettable scenery passing by the window. Below, our five favorite routes for a once-in-a-lifetime summer rail trip through Canada.
Traverse the Canadian Rockies with Rocky Mountaineer
The most luxurious train in Canada is offering a special, limited time route for summer 2026. For this summer only, Rocky Mountaineer is operating an itinerary called “Passage to the Peaks.” This two-day rail journey ferries travelers through some of Western Canada’s most scenic pockets, with stops in Banff, Kamloops, and Jasper, and is a supplementary offering for the influx of travelers expected to visit Vancouver during the FIFA World Cup in June and July.
Passengers can expect jaw-dropping scenery throughout the journey, from towering evergreens and pristine glacial lakes to panoramas of the Rocky Mountains. From the train’s glass-domed observation cars and outdoor viewing platforms, there’s ample opportunity to take in landmarks like the wide expanse of Shuswap Lake, the majestic peaks of Mount Rundle and Castle Mountain, and the stunning evergreen valley and band of ice-capped Rockies at Rogers Pass.
Daytime is dedicated to sightseeing, and each night, guests are transported to hotels along the route to sleep. Travelers can add up to nine nights in hotels along the way, depending on the rail package. For guided off-train experiences, passengers can purchase add-on tours of the Columbia Icefields, Maligne Lake (which is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies), Jasper National Park, and more.
