Rocky Mountaineer holidays in Canada never fail to provide astonishing beauty. The Rainforest to Gold Rush itinerary on this bucket-list train experience explores the picturesque Canadian wilderness like nothing else. Bask in the glorious sunshine and enjoy the most stunning landscapes this country has to offer along this spectacular train route.
Most of the sites you will pass through on the journey make for pleasurable return visits, since there are several activities on offer that are bound to thrill your inner adventurer. Here are some of the best places to explore if you are looking to immerse yourself in nature.
Howe Sound
With spectacular mountain peaks piercing the clear waters, North America’s southernmost fjord, Howe Sound, is a breathtaking location in which you can enjoy a plethora of recreational activities. Hiking across the ridges and mountains is a great way to witness the beauty of the landscape. If you’re feeling more adventurous, try climbing one of the 180 routes up the rock faces – the once-in-a-lifetime panoramic views from the top are more than worth the effort.
Renting a boat is another popular activity, particularly if you are keen to try your hand at fishing or simply want to relax and observe the sea life. You can also explore the various islands that surround Howe Sound, or walk along the pebble beach in Porteau Cove Provincial Park. In warmer months when the sun has heated the rocks, swimming is another popular activity. The glacial water is beautifully clean, and there are hot showers and changing rooms nearby.
Fraser Canyon
A much-loved highlight of Canada’s Rocky Mountaineer holidays, this steep gorge cut by the river between the Cascades and the Coast Mountains makes for a thrilling day out. Providing both hiking and cycling trails as well as a historic recreation of the canyon’s Gold Rush heyday, this location has everything from exciting outdoor action to captivating culture.
The gorge is simply stunning: impressive mountain peaks forming a dramatic backdrop, the Fraser River roaring below… nature truly overwhelms you. Wander through the Othello tunnels to discover the old railways for another historic tourist hit.
There are several picnic spots as well as a small Tea House if you are feeling peckish, and traditional classes in drum making and food gathering available in the nearby Tuckkwiowhum Heritage Village.
Mount Robson
The journey would be incomplete without a magnificent rock face to conquer. Mount Robson, nicknamed ‘The Great White Fright’, is home to some challenging routes for only the most daring alpinists. Standing 3,000 metres tall, the mountain is the highest in the Canadian Rockies and takes days to climb!
In my opinion the best way to enjoy Rocky Mountaineer holidays is to book with a professional Canadian tour operator. Some offer personalised trips which are ideal if you are looking to spend more time at certain sites along the route.
John Dixon is the Chairman and Managing Director of Prestige Holidays. For almost a decade he has been sending his clients on experiences like the bespoke Rocky Mountaineer holidays handcrafted by his award-winning team. John is an experienced world traveller and tries to visit each of the destinations regularly in order to ensure the quality of the properties he recommends, and stay up-to-date about the latest local news and events. He has a taste for the finer things in life and has an interest in arts, history and culture.
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