Canada is known for its natural beauty all around the world, as it is home to some of the most scenic national parks along with the most stunning mountains that are worth seeing in person! And what better way to experience it all than by train! Fortunately, Amtrak offers a range of train routes throughout the country that showcase the very best of Canada's breathtaking scenery.
From snow-capped mountains to crystal clear lakes with scenic views and lush forests, each train route offers a unique and unforgettable journey. Needless to say, each train route in Canada comes with its unique views and experiences. Welcome to the Great White North!
Here are 10 of the best scenic train routes that offer the best views in Canada and give you the opportunity to explore some of the most beautiful places in Canada:
10 The Canadian
This route takes you through some of the most remote and beautiful landscapes in Canada, including the majestic Canadian Rockies (which you can also explore on horseback!) and the Prairies. It's a journey of a lifetime, with comfortable train service and gourmet meals served on board.
Fun Fact
The Canadian is one of the longest train journeys in the world, spanning 4,466 kilometers between Toronto and Vancouver.
9 The Ocean
The Ocean travels from Montreal to Halifax, following the scenic coastline of the Atlantic Ocean. It's a popular route for nature lovers, with stunning views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Acadian forest.
Fun Fact
The Ocean is the oldest continuously operated passenger train in North America, having first launched in 1904.
8 The Corridor
This route connects the major cities of Quebec and Ontario, from Toronto to Montreal. It's a popular commuter route and offers frequent train service and free Wi-Fi.
Travelers can enjoy stunning views of the St. Lawrence River on this route.
Fun Fact
The Corridor is one of the busiest train routes in Canada, connecting Toronto and Montreal with several stops along the way, including Ottawa and Kingston.
7 The Skeena
The Skeena travels from Jasper to Prince Rupert, passing through the rugged landscape of northern British Columbia. It's a great way to experience the beauty of Canada's wilderness and wildlife, as Canada is home to some of the most iconic animals.
Fun Fact
It's one of the few remaining passenger rail services in Western Canada.
6 The Jasper-Prince Rupert
This scenic train route travels from Jasper to Prince Rupert, with views of the Canadian Rockies, the Skeena River, and the Pacific Coast. The train also passes through several First Nations communities.
The Jasper-Prince Rupert train route offers travelers stunning views of British Columbia's northern wilderness, including the Coast Mountains and the Skeena River. So keep an eye out for wildlife sightings such as bears, moose, and bald eagles.
5 The Maple Leaf
The Maple Leaf route travels from New York City to Toronto, passing through the scenic Hudson River Valley and Niagara Falls. The train offers comfortable seating and a café car serving light meals and snacks.
Fun Fact
A fun fact about the Maple Leaf route is that it is named after the symbol found on both the Canadian flag and the New York State flag, which is a nod to the train's cross-border journey between Toronto and New York City.
4 The Hudson Bay
The Hudson Bay route travels from Winnipeg to Churchill, following the shores of Hudson Bay. It's a remote and scenic journey, with stunning views of the tundra and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Fun Fact
The Hudson Bay train travels from Winnipeg to Churchill, Manitoba, passing through the northern wilderness of Canada. Along the way, you may spot polar bears, caribou, and other wildlife. It's a great way to experience Canada's natural beauty.
3 The Chaleur
The Chaleur runs between Montreal and Gaspe, Quebec, with stunning views of the St. Lawrence River. The Acadian Peninsula, and the Appalachian Mountains. It's a popular route for history and culture buffs, with stops in charming French Canadian villages.
Fun Fact:
The Chaleur route, which runs through Quebec and New Brunswick, is named after the warm Gulf Stream current that passes through the Bay of Chaleur.
2 The Bras d'Or
The Bras d'Or travels between Sydney and Halifax, offering stunning views of the Bras d'Or Lakes and the rugged coastline of Cape Breton Island. It's a popular route for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Fun Fact
The Bras d'Or is named after the Bras d'Or Lake, which is located in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. The lake is one of the largest in Canada and is known for its stunning scenery and abundant marine life.
1 The Mountaineer
The Mountaineer is a must-see train route that takes you through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Starting in Vancouver, the train winds its way through dense forests, towering peaks, and crystal-clear lakes before arriving in Jasper, Alberta.
Fun Fact
The train passes through several charming West Virginia towns, including Harpers Ferry, which played a crucial role in the American Civil War.
These are just a few of the many scenic train routes in Canada. Whether travelers are looking for stunning views, outdoor adventure, or a relaxing journey, there's a train route for everyone to explore!