Banff and Lake Louise are two of Canada’s most iconic destinations, celebrated for their turquoise lakes, dramatic peaks, and charming alpine towns. Now imagine soaking in the breathtaking sights of towering mountain vistas and glittering glacial rivers – all from the comfort of a glass-dome train coach. With Rocky Mountaineer, your journey becomes as magical as the destinations themselves.
If you’re dreaming of a stress-free vacation where every detail is taken care of, this guide will help you plan the perfect Rocky Mountaineer adventure. From selecting the best season to choosing your ideal route, service level, and add-ons, you’ll have everything you need to create an unforgettable journey.
Select Your Preferred Season to Travel
We operate from April to October, giving you the opportunity to witness the Rockies in all their seasonal splendor.
- Spring (April-May): Watch the mountains awaken, with frozen lakes and snowy peaks transitioning to turquoise depths and vibrant greenery.
- Summer (June-August): Enjoy long, sunny days and alpine meadows lush with wildflowers. An ideal time for outdoor excursions and wildlife spotting.
- Autumn (September-October): Marvel at golden larches and crisp mountain air, a photographer’s dream.
Flowers abloom: In the spring, expect to see fresh greenery emerging and wildflowers blooming as snow begins to melt at lower elevations.
At a Glance: Three Seasons to Travel to Banff and Lake Louise
What weather should I expect to encounter?
- Spring: Expect varied weather. Mix of sun, showers, and snow.
- Summer: Mostly sunny and dry, with low-rainfall and long, warm days.
- Fall: A mix of sunshine and showers, with snow returning to mountain peaks by late September.
What will the average temperature be like?
- Spring: Around 11°C (52°F) on average. Cold snaps can bring sub-zero temperatures.
- Summer: Warm and comfortable, averaging around 24°C (75°F). Evenings and higher elevations remain mild.
- Fall: Mild, with average temperatures between 10–15°C (50-59°F). Evenings can drop below freezing.
Catch wildlife sightings: Black bears (and cubs) are active through spring and summer then begin to forage for hibernation in the fall.
How much daylight will I get?
- Spring: Moderate daylight, with sunrise around 7:00 AM in April, stretching into early evening for dinnertime sunsets.
- Summer: Longest daylight hours, with sunrise as early as 5:30 AM and sunset near 10:00 PM, maximizing sightseeing time.
- Fall: Shorter days, with sunrise around 7:30 AM and sunset around 7:00 PM, offering golden hours and scenic sunsets.
What wildlife will I be able to see?
- Spring: As wildlife emerges from hibernation, you may spot grizzly and black bears (often with cubs), elk, bighorn sheep, and moose.
- Summer: Bears remain active in higher elevations, especially around berry-rich areas. Birdwatching is excellent, with eagles and ospreys hunting near lakes.
- Fall: Elk are prominent during their September mating season, bears forage for hibernation, and geese and swans begin their fall migration.
Moraine Lake, Banff. Summer boasts vibrant blue lakes and a warm alpine breeze.
What are the most scenic highlights?
- Spring: Snow-capped mountains, frozen lakes, and early spring blooms. Fresh greenery emerges as snow begins to melt in lower elevations.
- Summer: Stunning, unobstructed mountain views, vibrant blue lakes, and lush forested areas. Hiking routes are clear of snow, perfect for mountain explorations.
- Fall: Fall colours glow as larches and aspens turn golden, while lakes stay unfrozen and hiking routes remain open. Fall journeys may even catch the first glimpses of snowfall in the Rockies.
Select Your Desired Route
For Banff or Lake Louise, the First Passage to the West rail route is your ideal choice. First Passage to the West is our premier route connecting Vancouver directly to Banff and Lake Louise.
It’s also our most historic route, following the path of Canada’s first transcontinental railway. Along the way, you’ll witness breathtaking landmarks like the dramatic Fraser Canyon, the engineering marvel of the Spiral Tunnels, and the rugged beauty of Kicking Horse Pass.
Select Your Rail Package
We offer several types of journeys tailored to different interests and schedules, giving you the flexibility to design your dream vacation.
Explore some of our top packages traveling to Banff and Lake Louise:
- Grand Adventure Circle Journey - 11 nights: Experience a comprehensive exploration of the Rockies. This route combines multiple rail journeys with stays in Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper.
- Journey Through the Clouds Grand Adventure - 10 nights: Travel from Vancouver to Jasper via Kamloops, with an extension to Banff and Lake Louise.
- Canadian Rockies Circle Journey - 9 nights: This round-trip journey includes Vancouver, Kamloops, Banff and Lake Louise, offering the perfect loop through the best sights in the Canadian Rockies.
- First Passage to the West Discovery - 8 nights: Travel through history along this celebrated route connecting Canada from East to West, connecting from Vancouver to Banff or Lake Louise (or reverse).
Only have a little bit of vacation time to spare? Get a taste of Banff or Lake Louise in just a few days with our short rail journeys to the Canadian Rockies.
Short Journeys
Our Short Journeys offer a quick getaway with a focus on the rail experience. Ideal for guests looking to get a taste of the Canadian Rockies in just 2-6 nights.
For guests with only a few days to spare, we also offer shorter 2 Day Rail journeys from Vancouver to Banff or Lake Louise.
At a Glance: Short Journeys to Banff or Lake Louise
- Trip-Type: One-way. Choose Eastbound (beginning in Vancouver and ending in Banff or Lake Louise) or travel Westbound (beginning in Banff or Lake Louise and ending in Vancouver).
- Included Destinations: Banff or Lake Louise. Enjoy the flexibility to select your ideal final stop, with routes that pass through Kamloops before arriving at either Banff or Lake Louise (or the reverse).
- Average Length: 2-6 nights.
Top Short Journeys to Banff or Lake Louise
Extend your stay in the Rockies and enjoy more time to explore each destination - like paddling canoes across Lake Louise.
Rockies Highlights
Our Rockies Highlights are best for those wanting more time to explore at each destination, extending your trip to 6-11 nights. Enjoy a balanced mix of rail travel and sightseeing tours offered by our trusted partners.
At a Glance: Rockies Highlights Packages to Banff and Lake Louise
- Trip-Type: One-way. Travel Eastbound from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies, or Westbound from Calgary, Banff or Lake Louise.
- Included Destinations: Visit both Banff and Lake Louise. These packages let you experience both iconic destinations, and additional highlights like Jasper on select routes.
- Average Length: 6-11 nights.
Top Rockies Highlights Packages to Banff and Lake Louise
Maximize your experience: Combine two of our Canadian rail routes for the ultimate round-trip adventure.
Circle Journeys
Our Circle Journeys maximize sightseeing and free time, combining two of our rail routes for an unforgettable round-trip experience. Best for guests seeking an extended journey over 8-14 nights.
At a Glance: Circle Journeys Packages to Banff and Lake Louise
- Trip-Type: Round-trip. Start and end this multi-destination route in the same destination.
- Included Destinations: Visit Vancouver, Kamloops, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper on all routes, with options to extend through Whistler and Quesnel on select routes.
- Average Length: 8+ nights.
Top Circle Journeys Packages to Banff and Lake Louise
Choose Your Preferred Service Level
After selecting your desired package and route, you’ll be prompted to choose between two service levels, each delivering exceptional comfort and hospitality.
Take in panoramic views from our glass-dome coaches, exclusively in GoldLeaf Service.
GoldLeaf Service Level
GoldLeaf Service is the epitome of luxury, featuring bi-level coaches with panoramic domed windows on the upper level, and a spacious outdoor viewing platform and dining room on the lower level.
Enjoy plush, reclining seats ideal for watching the sights, multi-course gourmet meals crafted by our excellent culinary team, and exceptional service from a team of four attentive hosts dedicated to making your journey unforgettable.
Please note, GoldLeaf is available exclusively on our Canadian routes.
Dine on all-inclusive meals, snacks, and beverages directly in your SilverLeaf Service coach.
SilverLeaf Service Level
SilverLeaf Service offers a relaxed, intimate experience where everything you need is right at your fingertips.
Settle in to your spacious seat and marvel at the ever-changing landscapes of the Canadian Rockies through oversized windows, or stretch and move about freely within the roomy single level coach.
Two dedicated hosts are always on hand to serve freshly prepared meals, snacks and beverages straight to your seat. If you feel the pull of fresh mountain air, take in the sights from a small outdoor viewing area, perfect for one or two people at a time.
Book Your Package
Next, it’s time to book your package – a simple and flexible process! Choose to book online straight from our website, or contact one of our Vacation Consultants by phone or email for personalized assistance tailored to your travel needs.
Visit our contact page for more information on booking your dream vacation.
When should I book my Rocky Mountaineer package?
For guests traveling from farther away, we recommend booking 12-16 months in advance for the most flexibility and availability with routes, accommodations and add-ons. For example, if a lake-view room at the Fairmont Lake Louise is at the top of your wishlist, planning ahead will help secure this premium option.
For local travelers, booking within 6-12 months of your travel date is an option, however availability of certain hotels and routes may be limited.
Schedule Pre and Post-Journey Transport
Planning transportation to and from your Rocky Mountaineer journey is essential for a seamless trip. Below, we’ve outlined options based on your departure point.
If you are departing from Banff or Lake Louise, motorcoach transfers from Calgary International Airport (YYC) may be included. Double check your travel documents prior to booking transportation.
If Departing from Vancouver
If your journey begins in Vancouver, we suggest flying into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) and booking accommodation in Downtown Vancouver.
Transfer options from the airport to Downtown Vancouver include the Canada Line rapid transit, and taxis, Uber or Lyft. It is also possible to book a luxury private transfer through Rocky Mountaineer starting at $286 CAD.
If you prefer to rent your own vehicle, car rentals are available steps from the YVR terminal, located on the ground floor of the parkade. Advanced reservations are recommended to ensure vehicle availability.
If Departing from Banff
The nearest airport to Banff is Calgary International Airport (YYC). Shuttles like the Brewster Express or Banff Airporter offer 2-hour transfers for $70-$79 CAD.
Private luxury transfers are available through companies including Banff Chauffeur and Banff Sedan, or you can opt for a taxi or Uber, ranging from $150-$300 CAD per trip. Car rentals are also available through the YYC Rental Car Center, located on the Departures Level across from the Domestic Terminal.
If Departing from Lake Louise
From Calgary International Airport (YYC), shuttle options include the Brewster Express or Mountain Park Transportation, and cost $90-$118 CAD. Private transfers are available through Rocky Mountaineer, and start at $947 CAD, while taxis and Ubers range from $200-$400 CAD.
Parking in Lake Louise is limited, so car rentals may not be ideal.
For more details and updated information, visit our Getting to Our Destinations page.
Book Add-Ons and Excursions
As your final step, enhance your Rocky Mountaineer journey with curated add-ons and excursions through one of our trusted tour partners. These extras can be booked during or after your initial reservation, providing flexibility as you plan the details of your trip.
Some popular options include:
- Icefield Discovery (Banff): Experience the stunning Columbia Icefield on a guided tour, complete with a walk on the Athabasca Glacier.
- Explore Banff: See the best sights in Banff on this exciting 7 hour tour. Take a gondola ride, enjoy outstanding views, and complete the day with a tour at Lake Minnewanka.
We recommend booking any add-ons or excursions in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons. Explore our Canadian Route Add-Ons to find your ideal adventure.
All Aboard Rocky Mountaineer!
Embarking on a Rocky Mountaineer journey to Banff and Lake Louise is more than just a vacation – it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. From world-class service and breathtaking views to luxury accommodations and personalized add-ons, every detail is designed to create unforgettable memories.
Now it’s your turn to start planning. Explore our available packages and routes today to begin your unforgettable journey through the Canadian Rockies. If you have questions or need assistance, our Vacation Consultants are always happy to help.
All aboard for the trip of your dreams!
