Canadian Rockies by rail: Jasper as a stop
VIA Rail runs two long routes through Jasper. One is the transcontinental route between Toronto, Winnipeg, Jasper and Vancouver, in both directions. The other runs from Jasper through Prince George to Prince Rupert. That makes Jasper a stop on both, but not on a VIA route to the town of Banff.
The historic station at 607 Connaught Drive dates from 1925. It is a railway station and not an airport. To combine a rail trip with day trips, see our Jasper National Park tours.
Train routes through Jasper
Lengths and days for 2026.
| Route | Length | Days | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vancouver to Jasper | About 19 hours | A few trains a week in each direction | The route continues east through Edmonton and Winnipeg to Toronto |
| Jasper to Edmonton | About 6 hours 20 minutes | Same trains | Check the timetable for your date |
| Jasper to Prince Rupert | About 1 day 10 hours 40 minutes | 3 departures a week; check the days for your date | Two travel days with a night in Prince George that you book yourself |
Departure times change by season, so do not rely on a single time you read in a guide. Check the day-by-day schedule on the VIA Rail site before you buy. There is no single fixed fare, since the price depends on the day, the class and the fare type. For most visitors who want to see the Rockies from the train, the transcontinental route between Vancouver and Jasper is the simplest choice, because it ends in the national park.
Our pick: a river trip by the station
The meeting point is beside the Jasper train station, so it fits the day you arrive by rail.
Hand-picked tours, booked through Viator. Prices are indicative starting prices in US dollars (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Tours and day trips from Jasper
Boat trips, glacier outings, rafting and wildlife tours for the days around your train trip, with live prices and availability.
Planning a Canadian Rockies rail trip
What to think about.
Time between trains
With only a few trains a week, a delay can cost you a day. Avoid tight connections, and leave some buffer before a flight.
Prince George overnight
The route to Prince Rupert is split into two travel days. You stay a night in Prince George outside the train and book that room yourself.
Getting to the station
The station is at 607 Connaught Drive in town. If you arrive by train without a car, the local bus loops cover the town but not every sight. Read more in our guide to the town of Jasper.
Train or car
The train is slower than a car and runs on a set schedule, but you see the mountains without driving. The route from Edmonton by road is covered on the getting to Jasper page.
Entering Canada
Visitors from many countries who fly in need a valid passport and an eTA, which costs CA$7 from the Canadian government. By land, sea or train, visa-exempt travelers normally need no eTA but still a valid passport. US citizens do not need an eTA and must carry suitable ID such as a valid US passport. Check your own status in 2026 before you travel.
Seat and luggage
Long rides need some planning for food, warm layers and charging. Keep what you need within reach.
Canadian Rockies by rail: frequently asked questions
Where is the train station in Jasper?
The historic station is at 607 Connaught Drive in the town. It dates from 1925. It is a railway station, not an airport.
Does a train go from Jasper to Banff?
VIA Rail does not run a route from Jasper to the town of Banff. The Icefields Parkway road links the two areas.
How long is the train from Vancouver to Jasper?
About 19 hours, including the time zone change.
How often does the train run?
On the transcontinental route, a few times a week in each direction. Check the current timetable before you go.
How long does it take to reach Prince Rupert?
On average 1 day 10 hours 40 minutes over 1,177 km, in two travel days with a night in Prince George.
What does a ticket cost?
There is no fixed fare. It depends on the day, the class and the fare type, so check at booking.