North Pole Express in Squamish

The North Pole Express is a holiday train ride at the Railway Museum of British Columbia in Squamish, about an hour's drive up the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver. Families board heritage passenger coaches for an out-and-back trip of about 50 minutes each way, with festive touches and holiday cheer on board. The coach tier sets the comfort level: Bronze is the basic coach, Silver and Gold add more space and extras, and the 5 PM Platinum twilight run shows off the lights after dark. Every seat is reserved and sold individually, and the weekends sell out, so book well ahead. The museum is the only authorized seller and warns against reseller sites. Sales are final. Parking is free with a ticket. Allow time for winter driving on Highway 99, and give yourself time to explore the museum's restored locomotives and the Roundhouse before or after the ride.

North Pole Express in Squamish: dates and details

• When: Saturdays and Sundays, November 28 to December 20, 2026, plus Monday, December 21; departures at 11 am, 1 pm, 3 pm and 5 pm
• Where: Railway Museum of British Columbia (West Coast Railway Heritage Park), 39645 Government Road, Squamish
• Cost: Per seat incl. taxes and fees: Bronze $48.76, Silver $55.12, Gold $60.95, Platinum (5 PM) $75.26. Private Alberta car (up to 15) $1,500 + GST.
• Official site: wcra.org

Dates, hours and prices can change, so check the official site before you go. For more festive outings, see our Christmas events in Vancouver guide and the list of Christmas tree lightings.