Why Should You Travel with Calgary Tours?
Since 1994, Calgary Tours has been providing high-quality travel services throughout Western Canada and the Canadian Rocky Mountain national parks. With over 30 years of industry experience, we serve thousands of travelers annually.
We have professional tour guides in multiple languages (English, French, Mandarin, Cantonese and Japanese) and our own fleet of vehicles (7 to 56 seats). Calgary Tours joined JTB Group in 2019, providing global professional travel services while maintaining local expertise.
What Makes the Rocky Mountaineer Perfect for Your Next Adventure?
The Rocky Mountaineer offers one of the world's most spectacular train journeys, traveling through the Canadian Rockies between British Columbia and Alberta. This luxury rail experience features panoramic glass-dome coaches, gourmet regional cuisine, and attentive onboard service while showcasing mountain scenery, river canyons, and pristine wilderness that's inaccessible by road. The journey operates during daylight hours only, ensuring you witness every moment of the breathtaking landscapes.
When Is the Best Time to Experience the Rocky Mountaineer?
- Late Spring (Mid-April to May): Early season departures offer comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds as the Rocky Mountaineer season begins. This is an excellent time for photography as nature awakens across the mountain landscape with fresh greenery and rushing waterfalls fed by snowmelt.
- Summer (June-September): Peak season features warm weather, longest daylight hours, and full access to all mountain attractions. Expect vibrant wildflowers, active wildlife, and the busiest travel period with advance booking strongly recommended.
- Fall (October): Witness stunning autumn colors as larch trees turn golden against evergreen forests. Cooler temperatures and reduced crowds make this a favorite time for photographers and travelers seeking a more intimate experience before the season concludes.
- Winter (November-April): The Rocky Mountaineer does not operate during winter months, but our winter tour packages offer alternative ways to explore the Canadian Rockies with snow activities and cozy mountain lodge experiences.
What Are the Most Popular Rocky Mountaineer Experiences?
Travel through dramatic landscapes including the Fraser Canyon's steep rock walls, the engineering marvel of the Spiral Tunnels near Kicking Horse Pass, and pristine Kamloops Lake. Visit iconic destinations like Peyto Lake with its distinctive wolf-head shape and vibrant blue waters, Medicine Lake's fascinating disappearing phenomenon, and the turquoise beauty of Lake Louise. Onboard, enjoy gourmet meals featuring regional ingredients, attentive service from trained hosts, and storytelling about the railway's history. Our packages combine the train journey with guided exploration of Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, and other iconic Rocky Mountain destinations.
What Tour Options Do We Offer for Every Schedule?
Our Rocky Mountaineer packages range from focused multi-day rail experiences to comprehensive 4＋ day tours that include extended sightseeing throughout the Canadian Rockies. Choose between GoldLeaf service with bi-level dome coaches and a full dining room, or SilverLeaf service with single-level dome coaches and meals served at your seat. Many packages include special features like the Chateau Lake Louise deluxe lunch experience and exclusive tour leaders aboard the train.
How Do You Get Around on Rocky Mountaineer Tours?
The Rocky Mountaineer train travels during daylight hours only, ensuring you don't miss any of the spectacular scenery. For sightseeing portions, our packages include comfortable motor coach transportation with professional guides who share insights about the region's geology, wildlife, and cultural history. Your luggage is transported separately, allowing you to travel light and enjoy the journey.
For comprehensive travel planning tips, check out our Canadian Rockies Travel Guide for detailed itineraries and packing recommendations.
Where Do Our Tours Depart From?
Main Departure Cities: Vancouver - Multiple Rocky Mountaineer tour options with convenient downtown pickup locations and seamless connections to the train station
Calgary Airport - Complimentary pickup service available for tour packages, with easy access to Banff and the Canadian Rockies
Additional Departure Options: Denver - Cross-border tour packages connecting U.S. travelers with the Rocky Mountaineer and Canadian Rockies experience
Salt Lake City - Select tour packages combining U.S. national parks with the Canadian Rockies and Rocky Mountaineer experience
Airport Transfer Services: Calgary Airport - Complimentary pickup and drop-off service available for most tour packages
Vancouver - Convenient transfer services available with advance arrangement
All departure times and meeting locations will be confirmed in your booking details. Airport transfer services must be arranged at time of booking and are subject to flight schedule coordination.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do I need for a Rocky Mountaineer experience?
The core Rocky Mountaineer rail journey is 2 days of daylight train travel with an overnight hotel stay in Kamloops. Our most popular packages range from 4-7＋ days to include comprehensive exploration of Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, and other Canadian Rockies highlights before and after your train journey.
What's included in Rocky Mountaineer tour packages?
All packages include the Rocky Mountaineer train journey with your choice of GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf service, gourmet meals onboard the train, hotel accommodations, and luggage handling. Extended tour packages also include motor coach transportation, professional guide services, and entrance fees to national parks. Specific inclusions vary by tour—check individual tour details for complete information.
Do I need to be physically fit for Rocky Mountaineer tours?
The train journey itself requires no physical fitness, as you're seated in comfortable coaches throughout the daylight hours. Sightseeing portions of our packages cater to various fitness levels, with many attractions like Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, and Medicine Lake accessible by short walks. Optional hiking activities are available for those seeking more active exploration.
What should I pack for a Rocky Mountaineer tour?
Pack layers for changing mountain weather, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a camera for capturing stunning landscapes. The Rocky Mountaineer maintains smart casual dress code—avoid shorts and tank tops onboard. Include a light jacket even in summer, as mountain temperatures can be cool. Detailed packing lists are provided with your booking confirmation.
Are Rocky Mountaineer tours suitable for anyone?
Our Rocky Mountaineer tours are designed primarily for adults and appeal most to travelers seeking a refined rail experience with gourmet dining, scenic appreciation, and onboard storytelling. The journey involves 10-12 hours of seated travel per day with limited space to move around. While families with older children who can sit safely and remain engaged are welcome, the experience may be challenging for younger children due to the extended seated duration and adult-focused atmosphere. The train is ideal for adults, couples, solo adventurers, and groups who appreciate luxury travel and spectacular scenery.
When do I need to book my Rocky Mountaineer tour?
We recommend booking 2-3 months in advance, especially for summer travel (June-September) when demand is highest. Early booking ensures better availability for your preferred departure dates, service level (GoldLeaf or SilverLeaf), and accommodations. Special early bird promotions are often available for advance bookings, offering significant savings on select departures.
