The Canadian (French: Le Canadien) is a transcontinental passenger train operated by Via Rail Canada, running between Toronto, Ontario and Vancouver, British Columbia. Covering a distance of 4,466 km (2,775 miles), it is one of the world’s most iconic long-distance rail journeys.
Originally launched by Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) on April 24, 1955, The Canadian was Canada’s first all-stainless steel streamliner equipped with dome observation cars. Since 1978, the service has been operated by Via Rail, making it the corporation’s flagship transcontinental route.
Overview
- Service type: Inter-city / Long-distance rail
- Status: Active
- Locale: Canada
- Operator: Via Rail
- Former operator: Canadian Pacific Railway
- Distance: 4,466 km (2,775 miles)
- Journey time:
- Westbound: ~97 hours
- Eastbound: ~92 hours
- Frequency: Twice weekly in each direction
- Classes: Economy, Sleeper Plus, Prestige
- Observation facilities: Dome cars, Skyline cars, Park car
- Rolling stock: Budd Company stainless steel cars; F40PH locomotives
History
Canadian Pacific Service (1955–1978)
Following the Second World War, CPR sought to modernize its passenger service. Inspired by American streamliners such as the California Zephyr, CPR ordered 173 stainless steel cars from the Budd Company and dome cars decorated with murals by Canadian artists.
On April 24, 1955, CPR inaugurated The Canadian between Montreal/Toronto and Vancouver. With a sleek design and reduced travel times, it became the railway’s flagship train. However, declining ridership in the 1960s due to air travel and highways strained its profitability.
Transition to Via Rail (1978–present)
In 1978, Via Rail assumed control of The Canadian as part of the government’s consolidation of passenger rail. Initially, the service operated over CPR tracks but was later rerouted to Canadian National (CN) tracks in 1990, following budget cuts.
The change eliminated direct service to Calgary, Regina, and Thunder Bay, but allowed Via Rail to maintain service to smaller northern communities. Since then, The Canadian has remained the sole transcontinental passenger train in Canada.
In 2013, the train was featured on the back of Canada’s polymer ten-dollar note, symbolizing its cultural and historic significance.
Current Operations
The Canadian operates twice per week in each direction:
- Eastbound: Vancouver → Toronto (approx. 92 hours)
- Westbound: Toronto → Vancouver (approx. 97 hours)
The train passes through 65 stations (55 request stops), including major cities such as Edmonton, Saskatoon, Winnipeg, and Sudbury. Much of the route traverses scenic terrain, including the Rocky Mountains, Prairies, and Canadian Shield.
Due to CN’s prioritization of freight trains, delays are common, with schedules adjusted in 2018 to accommodate longer travel times.
Classes of Service
- Economy Class: Reclining seats, access to Skyline dome car café.
- Sleeper Plus: Berths, roomettes, and cabins for one or two; meals included; access to dome and dining cars.
- Prestige Class: Introduced in 2014, includes large private cabins, double beds, ensuite bathrooms, unlimited meals and drinks, and exclusive Park car access.
Cultural Impact
- Featured in documentaries such as Discovery Channel’s Mighty Trains.
- Setting of Eric Wilson’s children’s novel Murder on the Canadian.
- Promoted through Via Rail’s Artists on Board Program, where musicians perform live for passengers.
Legacy
Since its debut, The Canadian has symbolized Canadian rail travel and national identity. Known for its dome cars and panoramic views, it is celebrated worldwide as one of the most scenic train journeys. Despite challenges from declining ridership and freight congestion, it remains a flagship tourism experience and a vital link across Canada.
