October 27, 2007 | Tips from Travellers >
North Vancouver, Train
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Hi,
This train ride was one of the most memorable of our visits to B.C.
Starting off in the railroad yard just out of Vancouver, early one morning my wife and myself were to start a journey paid for by our son / daughter and partners.
We had been in Vancouver for two weeks holiday last year (2006) enjoyed every minute, seen a lot of the surrounding areas and the great city.
Now we are waiting to board this special train for a ride along the coast and then following the sea to sky highway towards Whistler.
Two engines arrived pulling carriages which included the observation car,we were entertained by the train staff to a song and a wave goodbye, we then boarded and found our seats, very comfortable with a table.
Out of the railyard the train pulled, with a wave goodbye from the staff. We then made our way slowly along the twisting railway through the built up areas of North Vancouver, waving to the occupants sitting on there balconys having breakfast.
We were served breakfast at our table,which was very enjoyable. Now i was ready to find the open observation car, with my camera set ready to get some shots.
The scenery was great as we had the road on one side and the sea on the other, the train was only travelling slowly so it gave a good chance to take some great photos, you were told when you are going to come across a place of interest and the train would come to a virtual walking pace.
Watch out for Howe Sound,Brittania Mine,Shannon Falls, Squamish and then Brackendale and its Bald Eagle population. This open observation car is ideal for those of you who have a camera. The train now heads into the backwoods climbing almost 2,000ft through the coastal mountains and heads over a trestle bridge, the train stops and all staff appear on the outside of the two engines for a photo call!!! all above the rapids below.
Off we go again with Mount Garabaldi in the distance and approaching Brandywine Falls the train slows again for photos.The scenery is spectacular in every way you look and this is scenery you would not see from a road trip to Whistler.
We arrive at Whistler having been aboard this spectactular train for about three hours, it all went to quickly for my wife and myself,this was by far the best morning we had spent in Vancouver, and one of the most memorable we have spent in over ten years visiting B.C
We would reccomend it to everyone if they get the chance to visit North Vancouver.
Regards Mac and Chris.