A group of children in Pemberton, British Columbia, known as the Welcome Committee, has been greeting visitors arriving and departing on the Rocky Mountaineer train for over a decade. The children, who eagerly wait on the platform twice a week for six months each year, enjoy the opportunity to meet travelers from around the world. However, their beloved tradition may come to an end as Rocky Mountaineer announced it will not operate its Rainforest to Gold Rush route next year, with no plans to include it in the 2028 schedule. This route relies on a rail line operated by CN Railway, which plans to discontinue operations on part of the line between Squamish and 100 Mile House. The children, dressed in matching hats and ambassador cards, express their sadness at potentially losing this routine, which has helped many improve their social skills.
Why It Matters
The Rocky Mountaineer train service has played a significant role in bringing tourism to Pemberton and the surrounding regions since its inception in 2006, serving over 250,000 visitors. The scheduled discontinuation of the Rainforest to Gold Rush route raises concerns about the economic impact on local businesses and the community’s social fabric. The Welcome Committee not only fosters connections between visitors and locals but also aids in the personal development of participating children, helping them build confidence and social skills. The potential loss of the train route underscores the broader implications of transportation accessibility and tourism in rural areas of British Columbia.
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