While you can take the train right from Union Station in downtown Winnipeg (or fly to Churchill), the most enjoyable way to experience this adventure is to drive from Calgary to Thompson, Manitoba (via Winnipeg’s Provincial Trunk Hwy 6). Since there are no roads from Thompson to Churchill, we will hop on the Via Rain and head to Churchill, which is located on the southern edge of Canada’s Arctic.

To begin our adventure, and start the convoy, we will meet at the Petro-Canada Gas Station in Aldersyde (50°41'45.0"N 113°53'10.2"W) at 8am. As we will have a great distance to cover – we do have to catch a train after all! -- punctuality is a must.

As for polar bear viewing, the best time to see them is during the months of October and November. Therefore, our adventure will start on October 3, 2025, and conclude on or about October 13, 2025. The entire event will take place over several days and will be filled with adventure at every corner (hikes, exploring small northern towns, polar bear viewing, wildlife viewing; train ride, etc.). This is another bucket list item you can cross off your list!

While on our way to Thompson, we will be staying in hotels along the way and enjoy the scenery that this vast adventure has to offer. Campgrounds close by September 30. There may be some boondocking opportunities, but with the cold around the corner, best to be prepared. Churchill is just on the edge of the Arctic, so warm clothing is a must. No exception!

Dates and Itinerary will be firmed up early 2025. This is when you should also be booking Via Rail tickets, hotels, tours, etc.

Given there are no roads from Thompson to Churchill, we will hop on the Via Rail which will take us all the way to Churchill. The ride to Churchill runs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. The return from Churchill runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. The ride from Thompson to Churchill departs at 5pm, and lasts for 16 hours, arriving in Churchill at around 9am the following day.
Via Rail has 3 different types of tickets, ranging from $76/per person (economy) to Sleeper Plus Class accommodations (Berth/starting at $256; Cabin for 1/starting at $445; Cabin for 2/starting at $527 and Cabin for 3/starting at 848). Kindly note that prices may change. Cabins for 2 and 3 people have private washrooms (toilet + sink). The Berth cabin has a toilet and a sink, but the cabin is an open concept design. Economy passengers use public washrooms. Each rail car has public shower facilities, except for the economy class.

Full Itinerary, with suggestions, etc. will be shared in early 2025.