I recently moved and being an avid train rider, I was excited when I realized I could take the train from Kamloops, BC (near where I live now) to Edmonton, AB where I have relatives and friends. It’s about a nine-hour drive, too far for me to drive in one day. Along with current high prices for gas and the cost of a hotel room, the train was a much cheaper option.
However, the train takes approx. 18 hours, it leaves in the middle of the night both ways and I wasn’t sure how comfortable the economy coach seat would be.
My journey didn’t get off to a great start when I arrived at the station and found out the train was already 2 1/2 hours late.
Via Rail makes it very clear on their website that they endeavor to operate on time; however, the reality is that they travel on tracks that they don’t own and due to freight traffic, there can be significant delays.
But before you decide to skip riding Via Rail because its trains don’t always run-on time, read this blog first. Just as there can be delays, on my return journey the train arrived in Kamloops over an hour early.
That’s why one of the best things Via Rail has on their website is the; “Follow your train in real time”.
When the train was delayed arriving in Kamloops, myself and another passenger had already looked up “it’s real time arrival” and then a couple of us hunkered down on the benches at the station to try and nap before the train arrived.
Throughout my journey, I followed the train in real time. That meant I was able to let my sister know when the train would arrive so she didn’t have to wait at the station for hours to pick me up.
The train had Wi-Fi, but it was a bit spotty. That’s because we were traveling through the Rocky Mountains and a lot of the trip is in remote areas where there are no cell towers.
If I was to describe this trip in three words, it would be comfortable, relaxing, and scenic. The coach seats reclined, there were leg rests so you could stretch out. With lots of leg room between seats, wide aisles and no one sitting beside me both ways, I was content to gaze out the window or have a snooze.
As the train wound its way through the mountains it traveled at a slower speed. I was amazed how quiet it was and how little it rocked from side to side compared to other trains. However, once we got out of the mountains and the train picked up speed, the normal train rocking motion was more noticeable.
With big windows in the coaches and even a dome car for Economy passengers, it was easy to see all the spectacular scenery along the way.
Announcements were made to insure you had time to get your camera ready for special waterfalls, lakes, and mountains you didn’t want to miss seeing. At other times they told interesting facts about the towns we traveled through.
There was a small café area below the dome car and the snack food cart travelled down the coach aisles prior to each meal. It was also possible to order full meals from the kitchen and have them delivered to your seat.
In Jasper, Alberta we had an extended stop where all passengers were allowed to disembark and tour the area. On the train in both directions, we had about an hour in Jasper. It was enough time to wander the streets of this beautiful mountain resort town or buy some food.
All the train staff I encountered were friendly, accommodating, and helpful. I was surprised how fast the time went by. Even though I had limited sleep both ways, the relaxed atmosphere on the train left me feeling rested. Or maybe it was the slow rocky train motion and the scenic countryside that lulled me into a state of bliss.
For me, this was the perfect length for a train journey. The Economy fare was cheaper than taking a bus, much less expensive than flying or even driving if you are traveling solo.
Years ago, I traveled across Canada by train from Calgary to Toronto, and Montreal to Halifax. It’s a long journey to do all in one trip, especially in a coach seat.
Via Rail has other classes of service like a Sleeper Plus. Or you can plan your trip to make a couple of stops along the way for a break from train travel and a chance to visit different places.
If you are traveling in Canada, consider using Via Rail. Slow travel can be good for the soul and for the environment.
SAVINGS TIP
If you are planning on traveling with Via Rail, sign up for emails so you get information about their many special offers.
“Discount Tuesday” is the best day to buy tickets with various discounts offered throughout the year.
Also, during the summer children traveled for $20 with a paying adult.
Are you a CAA (Canadian Auto Association) member. With this membership I received a 15% discount. However, this varies depending on the region and class of ticket.
There are also Student and Senior (60+) discounts so make sure you check out all of Via Rail’s discount options before buying a ticket.
Then get on a train, sit back and enjoy the ride.
