By Leslee Jaquette
“Travel + Leisure” calls it, “One of the world’s “Best Life-Changing Trips.”
I agree. A rail journey on the Canada-based Rocky Mountaineer (RM) is not to be missed.
Leslee’s First Train Trip on the Rocky Mountaineer
While still in its infancy, I was a travel writer guest on the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver, B.C. to Jasper, Alberta. I had never made a train trip before, so I was very excited and my expectations were overwhelmingly exceeded.
Back around the summer of 2000, the RM departed Vancouver in the late afternoon. After slowly creeping out of town past unattractive industrial facilities, we finally got out into the country. Dinner was served on china with linens and fine cutlery. My table mates were charming.
After dark I turned into my own little sleeper and was pretty happy that I am fairly petite. As nice as it was, the private sleeper was mighty tight…but fun. I slept like a baby to the thunkety-thunk of the rails.
Early the next morning I was astounded to see we were amidst towering mountains, barreling through scenery vehicle drivers never see. After breakfast I retired to the dome car for coffee and visiting with several new acquaintances.
About mid-morning we rolled into Jasper, a wonderful ski town if there ever was one. I was put up at the wonderful Jasper Park Lodge, then owned by Canadian Pacific Hotels. About five days later after exploring the Jasper area and climbing Mount Athabasca, I reboarded the RM for the return trip to Vancouver. The train left in the afternoon and the ride west into the sunset was stunning.
Modern Day Rocky Mountaineer
Although the schedule has changed and travelers can now start their journey to Jasper from Seattle, I suspect the experience is equally amazing, pampered and plush. If you ever plan to travel to Alberta, please consider taking the Rocky Mountaineer. It’s a fabulous way to go!
Of course, the RM travels to numerous destinations and offers a range of packages. For more details about various trips, please visit http://www.rockymountaineer.com.
Rocky Mountaineer Trip 2014 – Seattle to Jasper
The Seattle to Jasper trip is 6 nights, seven days and costs $3,084. It stops for overnights in Seattle, Vancouver, Kamloops and Jasper. Some of the highlights include:
- 3 day Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf Service
- 1 dinner, 2 lunches, 2 breakfasts
- 6 nights hotel accommodation
- Vancouver Lookout
- Rail station transfers in Seattle, Vancouver, Kamloops, and Jasper
- Luggage handling and National Park Pass
FYI – Rocky Mountaineer Background
In 2010, Armstrong Group, owners and operators of the award-winning Rocky Mountaineer celebrated a milestone anniversary – 20 successful years. Since its inception in 1990, the British Columbia based, family owned business has grown to become the largest privately owned passenger rail service in North America and has welcomed over one million guests onboard. While Armstrong Group’s past is rich in history and rooted in success, the goal from day one remains the same: provide the most spectacular and unforgettable travel experiences in the world.
What has been your experience on the Rocky Mountaineer?
Other RM trips you would recommend?
