A Scenic Passage

“Pretty spectacular, isn’t it?” shouts a fellow traveler over the wind.

Spectacular it is. In fact, the whole train ride between Vancouver and Whistler, which follows the famous Sea-to-Sky Corridor, is nothing short of spectacular. Cascading waterfalls, thick cedar forests, snow-capped mountain peaks and the Pacific Ocean are just some of the scenic delights viewed when riding the rails on the Whistler Mountaineer.

A sister operation to the Rocky Mountaineer, which is known for its train journeys through the Canadian Rockies, the Whistler Mountaineer was launched in 2006 and links the twin venues of the 2010 Olympics — Vancouver and Whistler.

Clients can choose between two classes of train service. Coast Classic has picture windows and extended legroom in a traditional 1950’s remodeled rail coach environment and includes a light meal. Glacier Dome offers single-level glass dome couches and large, comfortable reclining seats — almost as big as those recliners for watching TV — and enhanced food service.

“Would you like a glass of wine or a drink?” a friendly attendant asked just after we boarded in Whistler in mid-afternoon for the ride back to Vancouver.

All liquor is included in the Glacier Dome experience. With mimosas in hand, we felt like we were in business class on an airplane — except for the fact that the view was so much better.

Shortly after passing the Cheakamus River Canyon, afternoon tea was served to us in our seats. The two attendants providing the onboard commentary for our train car wheeled up a large trolley.

First, they presented a tablecloth-covered tray with crustless cucumber, roasted pepper and salmon wheel sandwiches, along with a selection of black, herbal and tisane teas. Then came hot scones (plain and blueberry) with clotted cream and jam. We finished off with lemon tarts, poppyseed cake and chocolate-covered strawberries.

To stretch our legs, we walked through the 1914 heritage observation car, which is open to all passengers. As well as having open-air windows you can stand against for great views, it also has leather seats with windows that open to the fresh air.

Midway through our trip, we passed by the Stawamus Chief, the second largest granite monolith in the world, which rises some 2,200 feet high. It’s famous for its rock climbing, and we could just make out the tiny figures of two intrepid climbers on the almost-vertical wall. Coming into West Vancouver, the train rolls by multi-million-dollar houses. We looked down into swimming pools and gardens and waved to people on apartment balconies.

The 74-mile picturesque ride between Whistler and Vancouver takes a leisurely three hours, and the engineer brakes at scenic spots for photo ops. The trip makes an ideal pre- or post-Alaska cruise escape. Best of all, it’s a delightful way for clients to savor the journey, rather than hurrying to reach their destination.