Train travels along the Vermillion Lakes with Mount Rundle in the background.

First Passage to the West

Rocky Mountaineer • Vancouver ↔ Lake Louise / Banff

Cared for by a qualified Phoenix Voyages advisor • TICO #50028032

Rocky Mountaineer’s original and most storied route retraces the historic Canadian Pacific line into the heart of the Rockies. Over two days of daylight rail you wind through the Fraser Canyon, climb past the engineering marvel of the Spiral Tunnels, and arrive in the postcard mountain towns of Banff or Lake Louise.

Vancouver ↔ Lake Louise / BanffRoute

2 days, 1 nightOn the rails

KamloopsOvernight

Rocky MountaineerOperated by

Journey highlights

The Fraser Canyon and the churning rapids of Hell’s Gate
The Spiral Tunnels at Kicking Horse Pass
Mount Rundle and the Vermilion Lakes near Banff
Overnight in Kamloops, in the heart of British Columbia’s interior

Get a personalized quote for First Passage to the West from a qualified Phoenix Voyages advisor — including service level, season and hotels.

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764274 Ontario Inc. o/a Phoenix Voyages | TICO #50028032

Featured packages

New Canadian Rail Route & Packages! 2026 Passage to the Peaks Now Available to Book (April 16, 2025)
Introducing a new rail journey connecting Banff/Lake Louise to Jasper (and reverse), with an overnight stop in Kamloops. This new route option is available for select departures only in June and July 2026 and will help provide flexibility… Ask about this

Why book Rocky Mountaineer with a Phoenix Voyages advisor

Rocky Mountaineer is a considered, premium purchase — and the details decide whether it’s merely a train ride or the trip of a lifetime. Phoenix Voyages advisors are dedicated Rocky Mountaineer specialists who plan dozens of these journeys, so you get expert guidance at no extra cost over booking direct.

GoldLeaf vs SilverLeaf, decoded. We tell you exactly what the glass-dome GoldLeaf upgrade buys you — the bi-level dome, the dedicated dining car, the outdoor viewing platform — and when SilverLeaf is the smarter spend.
The right route for you. First Passage to the West, Journey through the Clouds, Rainforest to Gold Rush or Passage to the Peaks — we match the route to the scenery, pace and parks you care about.
Season & timing. We advise on the best months to travel, peak-season trade-offs, and how rail dates connect to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper hotel availability.
The whole trip, handled. Pre- and post-rail hotels, park tours, transfers, celebrations and groups — one advisor builds and books it all, then supports you from first question to final arrival.

Frequently asked questions

Does First Passage to the West end in Banff or Lake Louise?

Either — the route runs between Vancouver and Banff or Lake Louise, both gateways to the Canadian Rockies. Your Phoenix Voyages advisor matches the finish, and your hotels, to your itinerary.

What are the highlights of First Passage to the West?

Two daylight days through the Fraser Canyon and the rapids of Hell’s Gate, the engineering marvel of the Spiral Tunnels at Kicking Horse Pass, and iconic Mount Rundle and the Vermilion Lakes near Banff.

Is First Passage to the West good for first-time travellers?

Yes — it’s Rocky Mountaineer’s original and most popular route, and the classic choice for a first trip thanks to its iconic Rockies scenery and postcard mountain-town finish.

Can I travel First Passage to the West in both directions?

Yes — it runs eastbound to the Rockies and westbound to Vancouver. Many travellers pair it with a return on another route, and your Phoenix Voyages advisor plans the loop.

How do I book First Passage to the West?

Request a personalized quote and a qualified Phoenix Voyages advisor — a Rocky Mountaineer specialist — will recommend the service level and season, then plan and book the whole journey for you.