When it comes to rail travel in Canada, few train trips offer the same level of comfort and service as The Canadian. This popular train runs from Toronto to Vancouver, with the ability to add on a Rocky Mountaineer stop in the mountains for an incredible cross-Canada adventure. With cabins, Sleeper and Prestige Class travel options available, The Canadian offers something for every budget.
On this journey across Canada you’ll enjoy a variety of views and landscapes. From the urban centers of Toronto and Winnipeg to the endless prairies to the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains, there is plenty to see from your window as you travel across this massive country by train.
Throughout the trip you’ll also encounter many small towns and http://techsslash.com/insiders-guide-via-rail-travel-info-provided-by-canada-rail-vacations/ villages along the way. You’ll experience the unique culture of each region as you make your way to your destination and have the chance to meet your fellow passengers from all over the world. The staff on The Canadian are always on hand to help with anything you may need and they do a fantastic job of keeping everyone happy. There are planned activities on the train at certain times during the day and staff members will give small talks in the Dome Car on the area that you’re traveling through. There are also live entertainers on board at different times of the year, which makes this train ride truly special.
For meals on the train there are multiple dining options including a restaurant car, Skyline Cafe and take out. The food served on The Canadian is high quality and home-cooked by the chefs. For each meal you’ll be offered a soup or salad, your choice of an entree and then a dessert. There is usually a vegetarian option with each meal as well. The staff are very accommodating with dietary restrictions and will always try to accommodate you as much as possible.
The train arrives at Winnipeg, then heads east towards the Manitoba Provincial Trunk Highway 15. After the flat prairies the scenery changes to a more mountainous landscape dotted with lakes, peat bogs (known locally as muskeg) and spruce trees. This is a sparsely populated area where forestry and mining are the primary industries.
As you approach the border between the US and Canada you’ll see the Niagara Falls USA station before the tracks make the short crossing over to Niagara Falls Canada station. Once you’ve arrived you’ll go through the US customs and immigration control at the station before you file into the Canadian border control. This process takes a little bit of time but is relatively painless.
It’s worth noting that Via Rail trains share the tracks with freight trains and as a result can be delayed by up to 7-10 hours. As such it’s best not to book any onward travel that requires a bus, flight or car rental after your arrival at your destination on the day you’re scheduled to arrive.