Edmonton-Jasper 3rd leg of VIA rail

Trip Start Sep 05, 2007

Trip End Sep 05, 2008

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Flag of Canada Jasper, Alberta, Canada
Monday, October 1, 2007

I was buzzing the morning we left Edmonton. I was fresh and it was a cool, crisp, bright morning. Today was the day we were going to hit the Rockies (more like they hit you!) I couldn't wait. This is the jewel in VIA Rail's crown. The big draw. I was chuffed it was a clear day.
Its only a 5 to 6 hour train journey from Edmonton to Jasper. The train departed at 09:00.
The first couple of hours are through flat prairie land. Then you come across rivers and the track is tree lined, so you can't see much. Its as if its teasing you, or hiding your view until the right time to make the impact of what you'll see as dramatic as possible. I spent the whole time trying to peak over the trees. Then out of the blue, just like that, the track rises, the trees drop, and there they are. Dominating the horizon. Just as you'd imagine, picture perfect. Vast, just with that bit of snow on top. After that initial sighting, the track weaves in and out of the tress and now and again you'll get a glimpse of them getting closer and closer. Then before you know it, BANG, there on top of you. All surrounding. At one point the train even seems to go through them. Truly amazing. There were Elk's and mountain Goat's right on the edge of the track, not bothered about the train one bit. there was also a Black Bear sighting, but we didn't catch it.
In a flash, we were in Jasper. I think I was just in a total daze, contemplating where I was, and what I was seeing. Over all too quick. But it has to be one of the best train journeys in the world. Not overrated or exaggerated in the slightest.

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