At the turn of the century, steam trains were the best way to get across the vast expanses of Canada’s wild western frontier. Early visitors to Alberta enjoyed the pleasure of watching incredible landscapes pass by their window in a constant captivating blur. Visitors today can hearken back to those simple times with these wonderful heritage train experiences.
Aspen Crossing offers scenic train tours, a campground, caboose cabins, a dining car restaurant and a gift shop that looks like an old time rail station. The 45 km (28-mi) round-trip rail excursion passes rolling prairies and historic wooden grain elevators. On special occasions gourmet meals, wine tasting and other themes are offered.
Alberta Prairie Steam Train passengers relax in vintage coaches on a real steam or diesel-powered train and interact with historical characters – including a notorious gang of train robbers. Live entertainment, home-cooked country dinners and themed events make for memorable journeys.
Heritage Park’s River Forth Dining Car circles the historical village behind an antique steam engine, while guests dine on regional cuisine, sip wine and journey back to the golden age of rail. The two-hour dining experience takes place inside an elegantly restored 1920s dining car.