Top Train Trips to Take in British Columbia

Passengers ride in the Rocky Mountaineer gold leaf 360 degrees panoramic train wagon along Fraser River, B.C., in a photo file. (SL-Photography/Shutterstock)

British Columbia is home to the Rocky Mountains, countless lakes, rivers, and glaciers, towering trees and diverse wildlife. And what better way to see all that the province has to offer than on a train?

Whether you’re a train enthusiast, a tourist looking for a unique way to experience B.C.’s sights, or are looking for a fun way to spend a few hours, these short rail excursions are sure to fit the bill.

Fraser Valley Heritage Railway

Located in Surrey, this short train ride begins at Cloverdale Station, an exact replica of the original station built in 1910.

A fully restored B.C. Electric Interurban Railcar will take you along the original B.C. Electric Railway where you’ll hear the history of the car and its restoration before returning to the station.

The round trip is roughly one hour and takes you through the surrounding farmlands to Sullivan Station and back. As the train crosses the Serpentine River into Fraser Valley countryside you can expect to see hawks, bald eagles, and families of coyotes.

Special train rides are often hosted during Halloween and Christmas.

A steam locomotive train in the Okanagan Valley near Summerland, B.C. in a photo file. (Stan Jones/Shutterstock)

Kettle Valley Steam Railway

Sixteen kilometres of preserved railway track in the Okanagan Valley, near Summerland, will transport you back in time, making it an ideal trip for history lovers.

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The historic Kettle Valley Steam Railway’s 90-minute scenic tour will take you through orchards and vineyards while offering outstanding views of the lake region. You can make the journey in a vintage passenger coach or open air car as you traverse the railroad that was built between 1910 and 1915.

If you want more than a scenic tour, try one of the specialty train rides, such as the Great Train Robbery or Murder on the Rails. If you’re in the area over the holidays, the Christmas Express is a great way to celebrate the festive season.

Kimberley’s Underground Mining Railway

Located between the Purcell and Rocky Mountains, Kimberley is home to the famed Sullivan Mine and the Underground Mining Railway, making this city a must-see for history buffs.

Visitors can enjoy a train ride through the scenic Mark Creek valley while learning the history of the Sullivan Mine. You can also visit the Underground Interpretive Centre with a miner-guided tour that includes live demonstrations of some of the equipment used in the Sullivan Mine.

The site recommends visitors explore the Orpheum Theatre, the North Star Schoolhouse, the Miner’s Cabin and the Caboose “as part of your adventure into history.”

Longer Train Trips

If you’re interested in train rides as a vacation rather than as an excursion, Rocky Mountaineer Railtours or VIA Rail, both located in Vancouver, are your best bet. Here’s a quick look at both rail experiences.

A passenger train from Prince Rupert to Prince George is seen at the station in a photo file. (Locomotive74/Shutterstock)

VIA Rail

VIA Rail makes it easy to see more of British Columbia without the hastle of planning driving routes.

One journey begins in Vancouver and travels nine hours north to Kamloops. Other popular routes start in Alberta, leaving Jasper to go to either Prince George or Prince Rupert, B.C. You can also reserve short portions of longer routes if you wish.

You will be able to choose from various service levels, including a sleeper car or a panoramic touring car.

Each ride includes free Wi-Fi and a variety of meal options depending upon your ticket. Sleeper Plus Class, for instance, includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner, while economy class does not.

Rocky Mountaineer Rail Tours

Visitors looking for a luxurious travel experience can find it with Rocky Mountaineer Rail Tours. The Vancouver-based company operates three scenic train tours on rail routes through the province.

All three train journeys start in British Columbia and end in Alberta unless you choose a round trip journey that starts and ends in Vancouver. Travelling is done during daylight hours to ensure you don’t miss a thing. This is further aided by the train’s large dome windows that guarantee unobstructed views and great photo opportunities of British Columbia’s breathtaking scenery.

There are two different classes of service to choose from – Redleaf and Goldleaf. Both include spacious seating as well as breakfast and lunch daily. Coffee, tea, drinks, and snacks are also served throughout the day.