Your dream Rockies trip is coming in 2026—and it’s by train

The mountains are calling, and it’s time for you to pick up the phone. If you’ve ever wanted to explore beautiful Banff and jaw-dropping Jasper, this is your chance to see the mountains in style.  

In summer 2026, Rocky Mountaineer is launching their exclusive Passage to the Peaks route, which runs between Jasper and Banff with an overnight stop in Kamloops. The trip offers breathtaking vistas, dramatic scenery and magnificent views of iconic landmarks. 

It's available for a limited time only, running for just four weeks in June and July 2026.  

Why this trip is the ultimate Rockies route 

Unlike other Rocky Mountaineer trips, this experience is a direct Banff–Jasper route, hitting both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Most Rocky Mountaineer trains go to either Banff or Jasper, requiring you to choose between them or combine multiple packages. This trip offers the convenience of both National Parks in a single journey. 

While the majority of Rocky Mountaineer trips skirt the West Coast, this route is the only one that doesn’t—for a reason. By staying entirely within the Rockies, travellers get an extensive look at all the mountains have to offer, rugged peaks, rolling hills, and evergreen forests, in an experience unique to this expedition.  

Some of the scenery you’ll witness can only be accessed by rail, making this an exclusive trip for any adventurer. 

What you’ll experience

This journey is a front-row seat to nonstop mountain views. If you’re taking the Eastbound route, you’ll depart from Jasper. Jasper National Park is home to azure lakes and the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve, in addition to the famous glaciers of the Icefields Parkway. The train boards early in the morning before you set off on a day of scenic travel. 

You'll be surrounded by the dramatic peaks of the Continental Divide before climbing the Yellowhead Pass. Travellers also get stunning views of the enormous snow-capped Mount Robson and the sparkling cascades of Pyramid Falls before ending the day in Kamloops.  

Once you arrive, you’ll stay overnight at a hotel in town. The rolling green hills of Kamloops are a change of scenery from the day’s jagged mountains, providing you with a tranquil place to rest your head before your next day of travel.  

The following day takes you to Banff, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the Rockies. Along the way, the tracks are lined with ranchlands, glimmering glacial lakes, and high mountain passes. Other notable sights include Craigellachie, the site of the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway.  

Your journey ends when you arrive in Banff, home to the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, the rushing river at Johnston Canyon and the lush green panoramas of Sunshine Meadows. 

How you’ll travel

The Rocky Mountaineer crew have curated every aspect of this journey through mountains and evergreen forests.  

Rocky Mountaineer offers an elevated take on rail travel, which includes world-class service. Onboard, passengers enjoy elegant meals made with locally sourced ingredients as the mountains go by. Along the route, your trip’s hosts will share the area’s history and folklore, and even point out wildlife along the way. 

The train’s design is uniquely crafted to optimize your experience. Comfortable glass-domed train coaches wind through the mountains, offering unobstructed views of the scenery. As the trains only travel during daylight hours, you won’t miss a moment of breathtaking vistas on your way.  

Ride the rails with CAA  

Are you ready for your Rocky Mountaineer journey in summer 2026? Book an appointment with a CAA Travel Consultant today to start planning your departure.