The northern neighbor of the United States, Canada, offers a kaleidoscopic display of autumn colors that rival those found in popular leaf-peeping destinations such as Colorado and coastal Maine. One of the best ways to experience the vibrant fall foliage in Canada is aboard the Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West route through Banff, Alberta. Guests can enjoy stunning alpine scenery painted in hues of burgundy, buttery yellow, and tangerine while savoring delicious meals prepared by on-board chefs and sipping local wine. Banff is renowned for its imposing mountains and stunning blue lakes, with the best time to visit for peak foliage being the last two weeks of September and the first week of October.
The Rocky Mountaineer offers a unique daylight-only rail experience, allowing guests to enjoy the journey during the day and rest in beautiful hotels each night. Travelers can choose between GoldLeaf and SilverLeaf service options, with the former providing panoramic views from a bi-level glass-dome coach, outdoor viewing platforms, and gourmet dining, while the latter allows guests to dine on gourmet fare from their seats in a single-level train car. Rates vary depending on the service level and package chosen, with options ranging from short journeys to circle journeys.
The legendary First Passage to the West route highlights three diverse destinations: Vancouver, Kamloops, and Banff. Travelers can experience the beauty of the Coast Mountains, the Fraser River, and Hell’s Gate while journeying from Vancouver to Kamloops, followed by picturesque views of the Shuswap region and the Rocky Mountains en route to Banff. One of the highlights for railroad buffs is the Spiral Tunnels, engineering marvels that pass through Mount Ogden and Cathedral Mountain on the way to Kicking Horse Pass. Geology enthusiasts will also enjoy crossing the Continental Divide and retracing the route of 19th-century explorers.
Rates for the First Passage to the West packages start at $1,720 for a two-day rail journey from Vancouver to Banff, including onboard meals, luggage handling, and hotel accommodations in Kamloops. The Discovery package, starting at $4,140, includes eight nights of hotel stays, meals, luggage handling, National Parks passes, and Banff gondola rides. The best part is that the First Passage to the West packages are available in both directions, allowing travelers to start either in Banff or Vancouver and experience the unforgettable journey through the Canadian Rockies.
