I’m an avid traveler, always looking for unique accommodations and transportation. So, I eagerly boarded Rocky Mountaineer’s luxury glass-dome train experience in Canada.
This two-day First Passage to the West journey from Vancouver to Lake Louise introduced me to “slow travel”—being present in my surroundings. Each ride lasted roughly nine hours, complete with breathtaking views, fun facts about the Canadian Rockies and unlimited Canadian wine.
Each night included a luxurious stay at a Fairmont hotel, a Rocky Mountaineer hotel partner. The train only travels during the daytime to optimize sightseeing.
Now, I would choose a scenic train ride over air travel any day. Here are tips from my first-time train adventure—culinary travelers and wellness warriors, take notes.
The writer was hosted.
1. Know the Difference Between GoldLeaf vs. SilverLeaf Before Booking
GoldLeaf features a lower-level dining room and outdoor viewing platform, in addition to an upper level with incredibly spacious, reclining seating and the iconic glass-dome ceiling for panoramic views. This is the service I had.
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In SilverLeaf, you’ll enjoy oversized windows, beverages and meals served directly at your seat—all in one level.
No matter which service you choose, friendly Rocky Mountaineer hosts make the experience all the more enjoyable, sharing fun facts about and the rich history behind the Canadian Rockies.
SheBuysTravel Tip: If you want a true luxury train travel experience, I highly recommend opting for GoldLeaf!
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2. Pack a ‘Day Bag’ With the Essentials
If you’re wondering how to prepare for your first train ride, bring a “day bag”—a small tote or mini duffel with the essentials: sunglasses, phone charger, tripod, any necessary medications, important travel documents and a warm cap and gloves for the outdoor viewing platform.
What items should you not bring on the Rocky Mountaineer? Anything bulky or oversized, as there are no overhead compartments—just beautiful glass domes.
SheBuysTravel Tip: The Rocky Mountaineer crew picks up larger luggage—like roller bags and oversized duffels—right from your hotel room after you board the train, so keep anything you’ll need during the day on hand.
3. Wear Comfortable Clothes and Footwear
Wearing a comfortable—yet chic—outfit aboard the Rocky Mountaineer is key. Between lounging in my reclining, heated seat, heading to the lower level for a gourmet meal prepped by an executive chef and stepping out onto the outdoor viewing platform for fresh air, there’s plenty of relaxing, but also plenty of movement.
SheBuysTravel Tip: You’ll want to snap a bunch of incredible photos aboard the train, so dress in layers with style and comfort in mind. I wore buttery-soft jeans paired with cozy sweaters and flats—ideal for photos and safely navigating the train. I also packed a few accessories, like a faux fur hat and scarf.
4. Board With Ease
The boarding process is seamless. In the wee hours of the morning, travelers are picked up by a motorcoach and dropped off right at the Rocky Mountaineer on the tracks.
You’ll board the same numbered train car each day where your friendly Mountaineer guides welcome you with smiles, coffee or hot chocolate, and fresh baked goods. It’s very “Polar Express”-esque.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Get organized before departure. Recline your seat, set up your tray for morning treats, and have your camera ready. You’ll want to be fully settled in to soak up the sites once the train starts moving.
5. There’s No WiFi Onboard—and That’s the Beauty of It
If you’re thinking about responding to emails or working onboard, know that the Rocky Mountaineer does not have WiFi, and service is limited—but that’s the beauty of it. The journey encourages you to completely disconnect and not miss a single jaw-dropping waterfall, babbling brook, or snow-capped mountain—wellness at its finest.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Although you’re traveling for a good part of the day, the time goes by surprisingly fast, so be sure to soak up every second of it. Electronics can wait! This trip is also an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow travelers.
6. Come Hungry
If you’re a passionate foodie like me, you’ll be pleased to know that the Rocky Mountaineer seriously delivers. Each morning, you’ll board hungry and leave completely satisfied.
Along with a fully stocked bar featuring unlimited seasonal cocktails, Canadian wines, ciders and beers, the executive chefs onboard prepare gourmet meals. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are included during the ride.
SheBuysTravel Tip: In GoldLeaf, start your day with freshly baked croissants and lemon-honey buttermilk pancakes topped with Okanagan stone fruit compote. Then, dig into a three-course lunch featuring dishes like rare seared BC albacore tuna or sweet corn and kale gnocchi in the dining car.
7. The Train Journey Is Only Part of the Fun
While the Rocky Mountaineer is a bucket list-worthy experience in itself, exploring Lake Louise and Banff at the end of the journey is equally unforgettable.
As a Rocky Mountaineer hotel partner, Fairmont’s dreamy properties— Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Fairmont Banff Springs—offer picturesque views of vibrant foliage, towering peaks, and turquoise waters.
SheBuysTravel Tip: At Lake Louise, wellness enthusiasts will love taking a sunrise meditation walk to soak up the serenity and peace before the crowds, paddling in a signature red canoe, braving a revitalizing cold plunge in the lake, and experiencing the traditional Aufguss sauna ceremony and glacial waters at BASIN.
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