How is the train ride from Jasper to Vancouver?
I'm planning to travel from Calgary to Jasper, and taking the train with Via Rail from Jasper to Vancouver.
I was curious as how the train ride is from Jasper to Vancouver? I noticed on Google that the train ride from Vancouver to Jasper takes around 19 hours, but the other way around takes roughly four hours more (23 hours). Is there any particular reason why such a difference exists? Also, how common is it to go about this route?
The original plan was to take the train from Vancouver to Jasper and find a way to Calgary, then fly from Calgary to the next destination. However, this plan seemed a bit less common and driving is not really an option according to my own research and my previous question.
Any feedback or tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
Best Answer
How is the train ride from Jasper to Vancouver?
Depends on when you decide to take the train, presumably the Canadian and not the Rocky Mountaineer, and if the train is on time. The schedule says 0900(MT) and if you get to ride on schedule it will be nice. Try sitting on the left initially in the direction of the journey if you want to take pictures. I was in the Prestige, reserved seats in viewing car so could jump on either side as very few were travelling in Prestige. But when you start getting on the mountains (Rockies) both sides will offer nice views. I crossed the Rockies while it was dark and cursed myself on it.
After the Rockies try staying on the left as you can some nice gorges (but I assume that will be dark by then in winter but might be some light during summer). You might be provided with a map when you start the journey so you can figure out what you are looking at.
I noticed on Google that the train ride from Vancouver to Jasper takes around 19 hours, but the other way around takes roughly four hours more (23 hours). Is there any particular reason why such a difference exists? Also, how common is it to go about this route?
Many tourists do take cars during summers, but not so sure during winters unless you know how to drive on icy roads. I saw many passengers take the Canadian to Jasper from Vancouver to ski. Vancouver to Jasper journey starts during the afternoon, my guess is probably they schedule around freight trains not obstructing the tracks, while the other side might not be feasible due to the length of the journey and when the train arrives in Jasper.
There are some good videos on youtube on the Canadian, have a look through them too.
Pictures about "How is the train ride from Jasper to Vancouver?"
Which is better VIA Rail or Rocky Mountaineer?
Unlike the Rocky Mountaineer which offers daylight only services, the VIA Rail trains operate throughout the day and night getting you to your destination sooner. From Jasper to Vancouver or in reverse, the VIA Rail service takes about 17 hours and is available through the winter months.How long is VIA Rail from Vancouver to Jasper?
From Vancouver to Jasper train travel on VIA Rail takes 19 hours and 0 minutes.How do I get from Jasper to Vancouver?
You can take a bus from Jasper to Vancouver via Banff, AB, Downtown Caribou East, Rabbit Street East, and Banff, AB in around 18h 28m. Alternatively, VIA Rail operates a train from Jasper to Vancouver 3 times a week. Tickets cost $150 - $380 and the journey takes 23h 30m.Is the Rocky Mountaineer worth the money?
I rode the Rocky Mountaineer at the Gold Leaf service level and can say it's definitely worth the additional costs. The upper level dome windows and outdoor viewing areas make for such an immersive experience \u2013 you don't want to pay all that money to not have the best view possible!What it is like to spend 24 HOURS on a TRAIN | JASPER to VANCOUVER on the VIA RAIL
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Images: Daniel Torobekov, Uriel Mont, Laura James, Tim Douglas