Top 4 train journeys in Canada

Canada’s railways, managed by the government-operated VIA Rail, are a cornerstone of the nation's late 19th- and early 20th-century history. These remarkable engineering achievements helped unite the country, delivering news and supplies to remote areas while fostering prosperity and mobility for the populace.

Though passenger services have declined since their peak in the 1940s, a well-functioning transcontinental rail network still stretches from Vancouver in the west to Halifax in the east.

Beyond the Toronto–Montreal commuter corridor, trains remain a beloved choice for tourists, slow travelers, and those eager to relax in a comfortable carriage while enjoying a continuous display of breathtaking scenery.

Here are four of the top overnight train experiences in Canada that you absolutely shouldn’t miss.

1. The Canadian route from Vancouver to Toronto

4466 km (2775 miles), 94 hours

When The Canadian was launched in 1955, it epitomized the elegance of post-war train travel. Its stainless steel carriages featured art-deco designs, 360-degree observation domes, and spacious sleeping compartments, making it a hallmark of luxury. Aside from a few occasional upgrades, the train has remained largely unchanged over the years.

The train features three classes: Economy (seat only), Sleeper Plus (sleeping berth), and Prestige (private compartment). Unlike airplanes, the reclining seats are spacious with ample legroom; the bathrooms are consistently clean, and the journey is enlivened by musicians, presentations, and wine tastings.

The luxury sleeper train's dining car serves gourmet dishes ranging from prime rib to pan-roasted halibut, along with alcoholic beverages to enjoy as the train gently sways through picturesque landscapes.

As it heads east, The Canadian departs late on the Vancouver-to-Toronto route, meaning travelers will wait until the next day to soak in the sights: glimpses of lush British Columbian forests, towering mountains (including, if luck permits, Mt Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies), numerous river valleys and waterfalls, and wildlife such as grazing elk, moose, and possibly even a bear (train staff will announce any sightings).

The train travels through Mt Robson Provincial Park and Jasper National Park, stopping for 90 minutes in the charming town of Jasper. From there, the scenery flattens as the route cuts through vast prairie landscapes that stretch for hours across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, often referred to as Canada’s breadbasket.

Fields of yellow canola, hemp, and flax create vibrant patches of color. Wooden grain elevators rise like watchful sentinels against the flat terrain, where locals humorously claim you can spot a stray dog running away for three days. Eventually, the train arrives in Toronto, marking the end of this incredible overland journey.

For more details: VIA Rail Canada – The Canadian

2. The Ocean route from Montréal to Halifax

1346 km (836 miles), 20 hours

This two-day, one-night adventure travels along the Gulf of St. Lawrence and through New Brunswick, concluding on the eastern shore of Nova Scotia. Having been in operation since 1904, it is North America’s oldest continuously running named route.

When heading west to east, twilight sets in shortly after departing from Québec, causing travelers to miss some of the views. However, morning reveals the stunning Gulf of St. Lawrence, with a few fortunate riders catching sight of whales in the river.

From this point, the vistas are breathtaking: the train crosses the expansive Miramichi River, renowned for its Atlantic salmon; then passes the ancient Sugarloaf Mountain; and continues through charming Acadian towns adorned with blue-and-red flags that celebrate their French heritage. Autumn is particularly magical for this journey, as the foliage transforms into brilliant reds, golds, and yellows.

For more details: VIA Rail Canada – The Ocean

3. The route from Winnipeg to Churchill

1697 km (1054 miles), 36 hours

Promoted as one of VIA Rail's five 'adventure routes,' this two-day, two-night expedition from Winnipeg to the shores of Hudson Bay is categorized as a 'remote service journey.'

Once you travel north of the small town of Gillam, there are no roads or air access. The train serves as a vital link for the First Nations communities accessible along this route. Passengers can approach the tracks and signal with their hand, prompting the driver to stop and allow them on board (along with canoes measuring under 5.5 m/18 ft in length).

Beyond Gillam, the scenery gradually transitions into tundra: a vast, treeless expanse of muskeg (an Algonquin term for bog). Travel slows here as the train tracks undulate due to the remarkable 12 m (39 ft) of permafrost that repeatedly thaws and freezes.

Those peculiar white poles scattered across the landscape are tripods that support communication posts. If you’re fortunate, you may encounter herds of caribou and, as you approach Churchill, the polar bears that have made the town famous.

As night descends, keep your blinds open. The low light pollution provides superb stargazing opportunities and increases your chances of witnessing the dazzling aurora borealis (northern lights).

For more details: VIA Rail Canada – Winnipeg to Churchill

4. The Rupert Rocket route from Jasper to Prince Rupert

1160 km (721 miles), two days

This lesser-known adventure through the untamed wilderness of central British Columbia sees few international travelers. The exception is those on organized day trips from Jasper, who will board the train for the first three hours until McBride in British Columbia.

To make the most of daylight views, the journey is spread over two days with an overnight stay in the unassuming town of Prince George. You'll need to arrange your own accommodation.

Initiated in the early 20th century, the Jasper-to-Prince Rupert service merges untouched backcountry views with ample opportunities to interact with locals from northern British Columbia. Residents will wave down the train, which operates three times a week, to visit neighbors, attend dental appointments, or stop by the nearest hardware store.

The route is dotted with shimmering lakes, rugged wilderness, and small lumber and farming towns, where the only notable structures are a weathered train station and a typical Tim Hortons (Canada’s iconic doughnut café).

The journey is further enhanced by numerous wildlife sightings and vintage steel carriages that harken back to the golden era of streamlined rail travel. The train affectionately goes by the name Rupert Rocket.

The touring class, which includes all meals, staff commentary, and access to a panoramic car, operates only from June to September. During the off-peak months (when touring class is unavailable), Economy passengers can enjoy the sightseeing lounge equipped with swivel chairs.

For more details: VIA Rail Canada – Jasper to Prince Rupert

Tips for Planning Your Trip

• Book early to secure the best fares; purchase tickets directly through VIA Rail.

• A long-haul train ticket allows one complimentary stopover, perfect for exploring or embarking on a multi-day hike.

• On-board luggage is restricted to one small carry-on and two larger checked bags (maximum 23 kg / 50 lbs each). Bags exceeding this weight cannot be taken on board.

• Avoid scheduling any activities or onward travel for the day you arrive, as delays can occur (except for simpler city-to-city routes, like Toronto to Quebec City).

• Any season is ideal for train travel; winter landscapes, especially across the Rockies, offer breathtaking views (freight trains keep the tracks clear).

• Canadian trains offer a slower travel experience. Don't expect the speed of Japanese bullet trains or French TGVs. Passenger trains often yield to freight, leading to waits of 30 minutes or more for passing trains.

• Seniors aged 60 and above with a CAA membership can enjoy savings of up to 20% on fares.

On-board Tips for a Comfortable Journey

• If traveling west, opt for the last dinner seating to make the most of the daylight for scenic views.

• Be sure to participate in the special activities available on certain services, such as heritage interpretation talks and beer tastings.

• Wi-Fi is not offered on The Canadian, Rupert Rocket, or Winnipeg–Churchill services.