Journey Across Canada: A Train Ride from Montreal to Vancouver

Traveling by train from Montreal to Vancouver is a journey that immerses you in the vast expanse of Canada. This route spans more than 5,000 kilometers (3,100 miles) across diverse landscapes, offering a memorable adventure for those who are willing to spend the time and enjoy every inch of the journey. Whether you travel economically or in luxury, the experience is uniquely Canadian.

Introduction to the Canadian Train Journey

Canada, with its expansive territory, is home to only about 10% of its land mass being populated. It’s the enormity of its open spaces, primarily within 100 miles of the Canada/US border, that makes the train journey a wonderful exploration. The trip from Montreal to Vancouver, largely through the prairie regions and the Rocky Mountains, showcases the country's natural beauty and vastness.

Experiencing the Journey

The train journey starts in Montreal and meanders through Northern Ontario and the prairies, eventually heading west to Calgary. While the overall length of the journey is challenging, with the travel taking almost three days, the experience is enriching when one takes the time to appreciate the surroundings.

Sleeper Car vs. Coach Class
To truly enjoy the journey, it's strongly recommended to purchase a sleeper berth. Traveling in coach class can be quite uncomfortable, as the seats are designed for upright seating during the day and not for rest at night. Sleeping in coach seats for such a long trip would leave you completely exhausted by the end.

Visiting the Rocky Mountains

One of the most spectacular parts of the journey is the trip through the Rocky Mountains. The Rocky Mountaineer is a tourist train that traverses the Canadian Rockies in daylight, offering incredible views. However, even the VIA Rail, which is the more budget-friendly option, provides scenic views that are worth the experience. Unfortunately, depending on the timing of your journey, you might miss some of the most breathtaking parts due to the time of day.

Seasonal Experiences

Many of my stories of train journeys in Canada date back to my early twenties and with limited finances, I chose to travel in coach class. These experiences, although more challenging, provided unique insights into the changing climates and landscapes.

January Journey

A memorable journey for me was during a January trip when the slow yet fascinating transformation of climate was truly a highlight. The ice between the train cars grew thicker, frost on the windows increased, and the landscape reflected the frigid weather. As the train traveled westward, the changing weather became a unique aspect of the journey.

On departing Calgary in the morning, the frost had melted, and the Okanagan Valley appeared green and vibrant, offering a contrast from the frigid conditions earlier in the journey. By the time the train arrived in Vancouver, it was raining, completing the transition from cold to warm.

Travel Insights

Additionally, I had the privilege to sit next to a young woman from the prairies, and her perspective perfectly summed up the beauty of the prairie region. One can either feel like a dwarf in the vast openness or feel like a giant surrounded by endless flat lands. Both views are valid and reflect the vastness and beauty of the region.

Conclusion

Traveling by train from Montreal to Vancouver offers a unique and unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Canada’s natural expanse. Whether you take the challenge of coach class or choose the luxury of a sleeper berth, this journey is a must for those who appreciate the country's vast landscapes and diverse climates. The Rocky Mountains and the prairie region offer stunning views and a deeper understanding of Canada’s vastness and beauty.