You lean in closer to the panoramic windows to better take in the settlements, farms and sawmills dotting a landscape defined by mountains, lakes and forests. Tranquility settles over you like a warm blanket as the train – and the beauty – takes you further and further away from your daily life.
You cast a glance at your fellow travellers in the lounge and notice the beatific smiles on their faces. When you turn back to the window, your reflection tells you that you’re smiling too.
The train makes a journey from the rugged splendour of Jasper National Park and the Canadian Rockies to the haunting beauty of the Pacific Coast.
Routes and Travel Times
Jasper-Prince Rupert train is a two-day journey between Prince Rupert, British Columbia and Jasper, Alberta, with an overnight stop in Prince George.
Departure Days:
Operates 3 days a week
Ex Jasper: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Ex Prince Rupert: Wednesday, Friday, Sunday
Travel Times:
Jasper-Prince Rupert: 1 day 7h
Prince Rupert-Jasper: 1 day 10h
Schedule and Key Stops:
Departs Jasper 12.45pm (MT), Arrives Prince Rupert 8.25pm (PT) +1 day
Departs Prince Rupert 8.00 (PT), Arrives Jasper 6.30pm (MT) +1 day
Stops:
• Prince George: Overnight stop, accommodation not included
• Smithers
• Terrace
(MT): Mountain Time
(PT): Pacific Time
Times are indicative, accurate schedules will be confirmed at time of booking.
Onboard Services
The Skeena offers 2 classes of service:
• Economy Class: spacious seating and a spectacular view through large picture windows.
• Touring class: available early June to the end of September, includes dome car access and meals.
On board the Jasper-Prince Rupert train, you'll enjoy riding in stainless steel cars that offer all the superior comforts of classic train travel.
Economy Class:
• Spacious seat
• Full-course meals, snacks, hot and cold drinks and alcoholic beverages available at affordable prices
• Blanket and pillow kit which includes a polar fleece blanket, earplugs, a neck pillow and eyeshades available for purchase (CAD $10)
• Checked baggage service
• From October to end of May, access to a dome car, with its lounge and 360-degree panoramic views
Touring Class:
• Spacious seat
• Checked baggage service
• All meals included in the price of your ticket (including wine with dinner)
• Access to a dome car, with its lounge and 360-degree panoramic views
Overnight Accommodation:
There are no on-board sleeping accommodations passengers will need to book their own accommodation in Prince George.
Luggage:
Each piece of baggage must be labeled with traveller’s full name, complete home address and telephone number.
A maximum weight of 32kg applies onboard ViaRail trains.
Check-in is open from 1 hour to 15 minutes before departure.
If the train does not have a baggage car, suitcases, backpacks, boxes and other baggage must be stored in the train car as carry-on baggage.
Carry-on baggage allowance per person (other bags must be checked through to destination) Max. 2 pieces under 23kg
Complimentary checked baggage allowance (fees apply for extra baggage) Max. 3 pieces under 32kg
Disabled customers:
VIA accepts wheelchairs as checked baggage free of charge provided that the owner travels aboard the same train.
Acceptable wheelchairs may be folding or rigid, manual or electric, and must be no wider than 81cm when fully open. Electric wheelchairs must weigh no more than 68kg, however VIA will accept heavier wheelchairs provided that the departure and destination stations are equipped with lifts to load and unload them.
This policy also applies to other vehicles (modified, customized or otherwise) designed for increasing traveller mobility
Smoking Policy:
VIA Rail offers a completely smoke-free environment in all our trains — as well as in all our stations. Via Rail personnel are bound by law to strictly enforce smoking regulations.
Travelling with Children:
Kid’s Activity Book: Your children will delight in our activity book, which contains a variety of cut-and-paste and colouring activities. Children love it — and it's guaranteed to set their imagination free!
Fares
Via Rail Fares require seat reservations and cannot be issued as an open ticket.
A Via e-booking confirmation is issued and this will need to be exchanged for a ticket at a Via Rail Station.
Once confirmation has been issued changes are possible but will incur an amendment fee.
Fees do apply to changes and cancellations
Exchange/Refund
Exchange and refund policies vary depending on the type of fare purchased.
Fees do apply to changes and cancellations.
Any Via Rail ticket/s requiring refunds will only be considered for processing when the following is provided the original ticket/s and a submission of a refund must be made within 12 months of the date of issue as shown on the ticket unless otherwise indicated.
Lost or stolen tickets are non-refundable. Tickets will only be re-issued when repaid in full.
Check-in Procedures
It is strongly recommended that travellers checking-in luggage arrive at least 30 minutes before the departure time.
To Book
This product is not currently available to book through our online booking system.
To book, please contact one of our Rail Specialists on 1300 360 823 or email details of your requirements to
info@railtickets.com.au
Photo credit: Images courtesy of Via Rail. Photographer Matthew Wheeler
