One of the most exciting rail tours you can ever imagine is taking a train from the coastal city of Vancouver to the mountainous town of Banff which passes through the Canadian Rockies. While riding on very smooth tracks through the forests, glaciers, by crystal-clear emerald lakes and naturally mountain chains, these are five tips that would help you to get the best out of your Vancouver to Banff train journey.
- Bring only essentials, but pack for both hot and cooler temps
Although, it’s very important to avoid taking along all those items and accessories you might require while on this fascinating train trip. But make sure you check for the weather before getting on since the train will pass through various climate zones. Pack extra clothes because depending on the part of the country that you are in it is either the coastal area, mountainous area or prairie you may change your clothes frequently. It is suggested that visitors put on a waterproof jacket and wear comfortable shoes.
- Choose the Left Side of the Train for the Best Views
No matter which side of the train car you choose, the view out the window will look great; however, seasoned travelers recommend choosing the left side. To the left large coastal mountains are visible near Vancouver, then the river valleys and prairie region of Kamloops and Jasper. The next sightseeing is the gorgeous glacier lakes, and the grandiose Canadian Rockies in case of the trip from west to Banff.
- Stock Up On Grazing Foods And Spare Your Hunger
It is essential to note that there is always meal service for the travelers on board the trains, however, it is advised that if you do not want to spend a lot of time in the train, it is advised that you buy your own snacks. Many of the dining cars can become crowded during meals, especially around the lunch and dinner hours, so just in case, it is better to have a snack with you to save you the trouble. It may be wise to take some fruit, vegetables, cheese and some crackers with you to avoid getting hungry.
- Stay Alert and Capture the Changing Scenery
Instead of just lying down and taking a nap, which may be quite tempting, one has to stay awake especially during this magnificent Vancouver to Banff train adventure. It will just change drastically when one is transitioning from the Pacific Coast to the Prairies or even the mighty Canadian Rockies. Be sure to bring your camera or sketchbook or journal where you can draw or write the scenery such as the mountains and the small prairie towns.
- Stay Longer to Enjoy More of Banff
While it is easy to get off the train and spend only a night, having an extra day allows one to be physically disconnected from the train by actually exiting at Banff National Park. The town of Banff is also very picturesque and offers good restaurants, cafes and shops along with excellent lodging in lodges. Still, better, you can drive a few kilometers or take public transport to the astonishing turquoise blue glacier lakes, powerful waterfalls, and stunning mountain trails that are world-known today owing to Banff.
Conclusion
If you ever decide to opt for Canadian train trips, it will be one of the best decisions you have ever made. Make sure to spend enough time exploring the Vancouver part before taking your train heading to the western part. Then prepare yourself for the magnificent scenes of snowy mountains that when you enter Alberta and Banff town, will embrace you.
