The West Coast Express is a commuter rail service connecting Vancouver with surrounding Fraser Valley communities, offering a fast and scenic ride along British Columbia’s stunning coastline. The West Coast Express is the most scenic commuter rail line in Canada featuring mountain and waterfront views as the train winds along the shoreline.
Tickets
Compass Card is the automated fare collection system for Translink. Tickets can be purchased at the station.
Credit cards and mobile wallets are also accepted.
Fares
TransLink uses a zone based tariff system.
While 1-3 zones include all of the Metro Vancouver area. Zones 4 (east of the Pitt River including Pitt Meadows, Maple Meadows and Port Haney) and zone 5 Mission City stretch out into the eastern Lower Mainland.
Fares from Waterfront Station:
- Zone 3: $9.05
- Zone 4: $11.05
- Zone 5: $14.95
Baggage
TransLink’s Etiquette on Transit page does not specify the baggage policy and what you cannot bring on board but generally do not bring more than you can carry.
Destinations
This commuter train runs along Burrard Inlet and Fraser River into the Lower Mainland serving towns in the commuter belt.
Timetable & Schedule
The West Coast Express only operates during peak weekday times within a 2-2.25 hour window. Travelling in the morning westbound from Mission City to Vancouver Waterfront. Returning in the afternoon eastbound from Vancouver Waterfront to Mission City.
| West Coast Express | Morning Westbound Departures (read down) ↓ | Afternoon Eastbound Departures (read up) ↑ |
| Effective 2026-07-29 | ||
| Mission City | 5:25 – 7:25 a.m. | 5:05 – 7:35 p.m. (arrival) |
| Port Haney | 5:44 – 7:44 a.m. | 4:44 – 7:14 p.m. |
| Maple Meadows | 5:50 – 7:50 a.m. | 4:38 – 7:08 p.m. |
| Pitt Meadows | 5:54 – 7:50 a.m. | 4:34 – 7:04 p.m. |
| Port Coquitlam | 6:04 – 8:04 a.m. | 4:24 – 6:54 p.m. |
| Coquitlam Central | 6:10 – 8:10 a.m. | 4:19 – 6:49 p.m. |
| Moody Centre | 6:46:15 – 8:15 a.m. | 4:14 – 6:44 p.m. |
| Vancouver Waterfront | 6:40 – 8:40 a.m. (arrival) | 3:50 – 6:20 p.m. ↑ |
Onboard
The West Coast Express is the most scenic commuter rail line in Canada featuring mountain and waterfront views as the train winds along the shoreline. For the best views, pick a north facing window.
Classes
Pros
- Scenic journey of the Fraser River and the Burrard Inlet
- Integrated regional network of SkyTrain, SeaBus, Bus, and West Coast Express operate under a single fare system means convenient transfers.
- Ease of payment options with the Compass Card and credit/debit cards.
- Off-peak service supplanted by TransLink buses.
- Environmentally friendly option to avoid rush hour traffic.
Cons
- Limited West Coast Express schedule means that the train primarily serves weekday commuters with no off-peak or weekend service.
- Limited network coverage means fewer stops and a small geographical area.
- Delays due to freight traffic also limits operating times
- Fare zones can be confusing for occasional and tourists riding the system.
- Park and ride lots often fill up early.
Notes
- Same stations have paid parking.
- For tourists and visitors, the WCE is not an ideal train until you plan on renting a car or staying in Mission overnight. That said, this train is a budget friendly way to see the sights and discover the Lower Mainland.
- Pro tip: If you’re in Mission a visit to Rocko’s 24 Hour Diner is a must stop. This retro 50’s diner has been featured on several media productions.
All systems operated by
VIA Rail Canada
