western canada road trip

Ultimate 2 Week Western Canada Road Trip from Vancouver: Itinerary, Tips & Map

If you have only one chance (and two weeks) to explore Western Canada, this is the road trip for you.

As well as including all of the ‘must sees,’ this two week Western Canada road trip itinerary features many of the contrasting landscapes that make this region so unique. Think temperate rainforest, desert and mountains, all in one road trip!

This road trip guide is shaped by 10+ years of experience living and travelling in British Columbia and Alberta. JR and I have tried and tested every single activity mentioned.

Filled with more than 6500 words of local knowledge and advice, this Western Canada road trip guide is intended to be used as a starting point for planning your trip.

Adjust the suggestions to your interests or add a couple of days in the locations that sound most appealing to you.

The guide includes a day-by-day overview of the entire two-week road trip itinerary, as well as planning tips to help save you money (and stress!) along the way.

Here’s what to expect:

Road trip itinerary at a glance

Need to know info.

• Vancouver to Whistler
• Whistler to Kamloops
• Kamloops to Valemount
• Valemount to Jasper
• Jasper to Banff
• Banff to Golden
• Golden to Revelstoke
• Revelstoke to the Okanagan Valley
• Okanagan Valley to Vancouver

Camping details

• Alternative itineraries

More planning resources

Last updated January 2024 . This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of these links, we may receive a small percentage of the sale.

14 day Western Canada road trip overview

Time to start planning your once-in-a-lifetime Western Canada road trip!

This section of the guide provides an overview of the itinerary with a map and some important need-to-know information.

Before we go any further, let’s have a look at the entire 14 day road trip itinerary from start to finish.

Day 1 : Vancouver Day 2 : Vancouver to Whistler Day 3 : Whistler Day 4 : Whistler to Kamloops Day 5 : Kamloops to Valemount Day 6 : Valemount to Jasper Day 7 : Jasper

Day 8 : Jasper to Banff Day 9 : Banff Day 10 : Banff Day 11 : Banff to Golden Day 12 : Golden to Revelstoke Day 13 : Revelstoke to the Okanagan Valley Day 14 : Okanagan Valley to Vancouver

It is noticeable that the majority of this road trip is in British Columbia. I was tempted to call it the ‘ ultimate 2 week British Columbia road trip ‘ but decided that the inclusion of both Jasper and Banff made it a bit too inaccurate.

If the routing looks too fast for you, I suggest looking at the alternative itineraries noted at the bottom of the page

Travelling to Canada from Europe? While it is easier and faster to drive long distances in Western Canada compared to Europe, you may find that this itinerary includes way too much driving for your preferences. Again, I would suggest checking out the alternative itineraries section.

Please note that this post previously mentioned a two-night stay on Vancouver Island within the itinerary.

I have recently chosen to remove this recommendation primarily due to the high amount of ferry cancellations in 2023 ( more information and advice later in the guide ).

Western Canada road trip map

Use the below Google Map for orientation and planning.

Each of the suggested activities is marked on the map, with suggested accommodations in each town and city.

• The best time to drive this road trip is July to September . June is also a good time, though a handful of these activities may have limited accessibility
• This itinerary is relatively fast-paced . If you choose to do most of the activities listed, you will likely be busy all day. Need more downtime? Stretch this itinerary over three weeks or skip some of the activities
• The route and suggested activities are aimed at people who enjoy exploring nature and being active while on vacation
• I have suggested at least one short, easy hike/walk each day (7km or less) . Other hiking trails mentioned are aimed at keen hikers looking for longer, intermediate/difficult level routes
• Most of the overnight stops are in small towns. During the summer months, accommodation and dining availability and choice can be limited
• Advance reservations (6 months or more) are recommended for Whistler, Banff and Jasper in particular
• Before you head to Western Canada , learn how to avoid negative bear encounters and basic outdoor safety
• This itinerary focuses on free activities over paid ones. I have, however, mentioned half a dozen paid attractions which I think offer one-of-a-kind experiences
• Keep in mind that this road trip offers just a taste of the activities and hiking trails on offer in these locations. It is impossible to do everything in a 2 week road trip !
• When exploring , be sure to always Leave No Trace (dispose of trash properly, stay on established trails, don’t feed wildlife)
• A national park pass is required to visit Jasper, Banff, Yoho, Glacier and Revelstoke national parks (all mentioned in this guide). These parks are all covered by the same day pass
• Discover more tips and advice in our BC trip planning guide

Day by day road trip guide

Read on to discover a detailed breakdown of this 2 week Western Canada road trip itinerary, including where to stay and what to do each day.

Vancouver (Day 1)

Surrounded by temperate rainforest, mountains and ocean, Vancouver is a strikingly beautiful city.

The downtown area is located at the very end of what is known as British Columbia’s ‘Lower Mainland,’ with neighbouring cities (Burnaby, Surrey, Abbotsford) spreading out to the east.

Vancouver is the ideal place to get your bearings before starting your 2 week Western Canada road trip.

Best things to do in Vancouver

• One day isn’t a lot of time in Vancouver. Depending on the length of your journey to Vancouver, you may want to take this day slowly and not see/do that much
• The Vancouver Seawall around Stanley Park is one of Vancouver’s most unique features. It’s possible to rent a bike or just walk one section
• The Granville Island Public Market is a firm favourite for tourists and locals alike – arrive with an empty stomach!
• Of course, a scroll around downtown is essential. Gastown , Vancouver’s oldest neighbourhood, is one of my favourite areas, with cobblestone streets, galleries, cafes and boutiques
• If the downtown areas do not hold any interest for you, consider a trip to Grouse Mountain . Take the challenge to hike to the top via the Grouse Grind (2.5km with 800m elevation!) or ride the cable car. Spectacular views await at the top, plus rescued grizzly bears and a lumberjack show

Where to stay in Vancouver

Looking to stay downtown but want to pay less than $400/night? We’ve stayed at the Moda Hotel several times and enjoyed both the location and heritage building surroundings. The cheapest rooms are not very spacious but they have everything you need for a short stay.

On a stricter budget? I’ve heard great things about the YWCA Hotel . The location is fantastic, being walkable to everywhere downtown. The cheapest rooms have shared bathrooms.

It is important to know that there are no campgrounds in downtown Vancouver.

Vancouver to Whistler (Day 2)

Vancouver to Whistler driving distance: 121km Driving time without activities : 1 hour 45 minutes

Time to get out of the city! The drive to Whistler is a well travelled route though also incredibly pretty. Howe Sound borders the road on one side, with high cliffs and mountains on the other.

Best things to do between Vancouver and Whistler

• Shannon Falls is an ideal first stop to stretch and get your bearings. The waterfall is just a five-minute walk from the parking lot
• If you’re curious what lies at the top of the mountains, take the Sea to Sky Gondola to find out. Breathtaking vistas of the ocean and surrounding mountains await!
• The small town of Squamish is just a little further up the highway. The dramatic Stawamus Chief , a huge granite monolith, can be seen from downtown. Stop for an early dinner or to get food supplies
• Last stop before Whistler is Brandywine Falls. Allow 20-30 minutes to walk the easy 1km return trail to the viewpoint

Where to stay in Whistler

Whistler has a whole host of accommodation options to choose from. Booking as early as possible is highly recommended.

The Pangea Pod Hotel is right in the heart of the action of Whistler Village, but without the price tag of surrounding hotels.

Families and larger groups may like the Whistler Village Inn & Suites , which offers a number of different room configurations. The location is central but surprisingly quiet.

The closest provincial park campground to Whistler is Nairn Falls , around 25 minutes drive north on Highway 99. Another option is Alice Lake , which is in Squamish (40 minutes south). Reservations highly recommended.

Whistler (Day 3)

Whistler is one of North America’s largest ski resorts. But this mountain paradise is a wonderful summer destination as well.

This is particularly true if you love to hike as the winter lift system can be utilised for easy access into the alpine (almost zero uphill climbs necessary!)

Best things to do in Whistler

• After breakfast, board the Village Gondola to reach the peak of Whistler Mountain (2,181m). Take in the extraordinary views and then ride the Peak Express chairlift (Friday to Sunday only) to the Top of the World Summit (2182m). Top tip – buy your tickets online to avoid most of the line
• Return to Whistler Mountain to take the incredible Peak 2 Peak gondola to Blackcomb Mountain , where more alpine trails await. I’d recommend the easy Alpine Loop (1.4km). When finished, ride the Blackcomb Gondola back down to the village
• Cool off with a swim in Alta Lake . Note that parking is limited so walk or take the bus if you can (#10, #20, #25 BC Transit buses)
• In the evening, explore Whistler’s alpine-themed centre and take a photo with the huge Olympic Rings
• Looking for some downtime? Visit Scandinave Spa for some thermal therapy. Access to this adults-only outdoor spa is available without a reservation, though a waitlist does operate at busy times
• If they haven’t had enough excitement already, kids may love to try the longest zipline in North America

Here to hike? The premier alpine hike on Whistler Mountain is the High Note Trail . The 9.4km route begins from the Top of the World Summit and descends through rugged rocky terrain and meadows to finish at the top of the Village Gondola

Whistler to Kamloops (Day 4)

Whistler to Kamloops driving distance: 300km Driving time without activities : 4 hours

Highway 99 continues beyond Whistler and through the spectacular Garibaldi Ranges.

The lush mountainous landscape doesn’t last however, with the second half of this drive transitioning into a completely different (and much drier!) ecosystem.

The day finishes in the city of Kamloops, situated in British Columbia’s dry grasslands region.

Best things to do between Whistler and Kamloops

• Nairn Falls is a must-see, situated 25 minutes north of Whistler. The viewpoint is 3km return from the parking lot
• Enjoy morning coffee or lunch in Pemberton , a cute village surrounded by mountains
• If you’ve already secured a day pass (only possible two days in advance), stop to visit the famous Joffre Lakes . These turquoise-coloured lakes are very popular but rightly so. The hike is 500m one-way to the first lake, 4km to the middle lake, 5km to the upper lake
• Beyond Duffy Lake , the landscape starts to change dramatically. Stop in Lillooet to take it all in (pick up some treats from the bakery too!)
• There is a great viewpoint/rest area 30 minutes west of Kamloops

Where to stay in Kamloops

Kamloops has a wide choice of accommodation and eateries. An alternative overnight destination would be Clearwater. The drive would take around an hour and a half longer but would significantly reduce overall driving time the next day.

Kamloops’ best value accommodation is found at… Canadas Best Value Inn (seriously!) Another good option is the downtown Plaza Hotel.

For upscale lodgings in the downtown area, book a stay at the Delta Hotel . The location is convenient for restaurants and also for departing towards Clearwater (your destination on day 5).

Pauls Lake Provincial Park has a charming forested campground within walking distance of sandy beaches. The park is 25km from Kamloops.

An alternative idea would be to drive directly to Wells Gray Provincial Park (more details below) and stay at one of the three campgrounds there instead.

Reservations are possible for both Clearwater Lake and Falls Creek campgrounds . We find Pyramid to be more conveniently located for waterfalls but it is first come first serve only.

Kamloops to Valemount (Day 5)

Kamloops to Valemount driving distance: 322km (+90km sightseeing) Driving time without activities : 5 hours

The star attraction today is Wells Gray Provincial Park , a protected area just north of Clearwater (1 hour 30 minutes drive from Kamloopos)

Part of a volcanic field that started forming approximately 3.5 million years ago, Wells Gray is host to 40+ spectacular waterfalls as well as glacier lakes, snow-capped mountains and more.

The drive to Clearwater from Kamloops is pretty straightforward. Watch for the Canadian Mountaineer train on the parallel tracks!

On arrival, pick up lunch supplies and then head onto Clearwater Valley Road for 2-3 hours of waterfall chasing.

Best things to do in Wells Gray Provincial Park and on the way to Valemount

• The biggest waterfall in Wells Gray Provincial Park is Helmcken Falls (141m high!), which is located at the very end of the paved section of the road
• On the way there, stop at Spahats Falls (10 minute walk from the parking lot), Dawson Falls (900m return) and the Mushbowl (roadside)
• An optional stop is Moul Falls . It is accessible only via a 6km return hike. The first half of the trail is flat, wide and very easy. The second half is narrower and rockier, with the final approach to the waterfall featuring some short, steep slopes and a couple of staircases
• Beyond Helmcken Falls, the road is unpaved. If you want to continue, the Ray Farm Trail is 3km return (homesteading history, interesting mineral springs)
• The 1.6km return trip to Bailey’s Chute Trail combines both waterfalls and rapids
• After driving back to Clearwater, return to Highway 5 and continue to Valemount through the lush North Thompson Valley
• The drive between Clearwater and Valemount is pleasant, though there are not many easily accessible roadside activities

Here to hike? The best hiking trail in Wells Gray Provincial Park is the Trophy Meadow Trail . Providing quick access to the subalpine, it is one of my favourite trails in all of BC! The one downside is that the trailhead is located at the end of an unpaved road

Where to stay in Valemount

Valemount is a small village (pop 1052) with a surprisingly good choice of accommodation. There’s an excellent local brewery , a very popular Swiss-German bakery and an entry-by-donation museum .

Canadas Best Value Inn Valemount is a great no-frills option while the Comfort Inn & Suites offers more amenities and complimentary breakfast.

The most upscale place in Valemount is the Best Western Plus . If you’re looking for something a little more unique and local, try Valemount Mountain Retreat Guesthouse .

Valemount has several private RV parks . An alternative idea is to stay at one of Mount Robson’s provincial park campgrounds . I prefer Robson River over Robson Meadows, but both are good.

Valemount to Jasper (Day 6)

Valemount to Jasper driving distance: 123km Driving time without activities : 1 hour 30 minutes (+ time change)

The drive between Valemount and Jasper is wonderfully scenic, though it also features a time change. Prepare to lose one hour today!

Before leaving Valempount, be sure to check out the Swiss-German bakery if you haven’t already.

Best things to do between Valemount and Jasper

• Shortly after turning onto Highway 16 you’ll arrive at Rearguard Falls Provincial Park . A steep and short trail leads down to a number of viewing platforms of this thundering waterfall
• Around the next highway corner is the most spectacular view of Mount Robson , the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies (3954m). Stop at the Visitor Centre to get a closer look and view indoor exhibits about the mountain. There’s a good café as well
• The final stop of the day is beautiful Overlander Falls . Allow 30 minutes to walk to the main viewpoint and back
• Time change in mind, you’ll likely arrive in Jasper in the mid afternoon. Check into your accommodation and enjoy a stroll around the downtown area
• In the evening, consider the scenic drive to Pyramid Lake , where elk are commonly seen. Take a walk on Pyramid Island

Where to stay in Jasper

Accommodation in Jasper is high in demand. This combined with the small size of Jasper means that prices are high too. For these reasons, I would recommend booking accommodation in Jasper as soon as possible.

The Mount Robson Inn is a solid downtown accommodation pick. A wide range of room configurations offer particularly good value for families and larger groups. Breakfast is included with every stay and guests also have access to a hot tub. Whistler’s Inn is an ideal alternative for couples.

Campers have a choice of campgrounds in Jasper. We have stayed most often at Whistlers Campground , which was completely renovated a few years ago.

Wapiti Campground is located just down the road from Whistlers and is smaller. Both are only 5 minutes drive from town.

Jasper (Day 7)

Driving distance: 90km Driving time without activities : 2 hours

Jasper National Park is Canada’s largest, with the small town of Jasper at the centre of it all. With two nights here, you’ll be able to see some of the park’s most impressive sights and also enjoy the charm of the compact Jasper townsite.

Best things to do in Jasper

• With one full day in Jasper National Park, I would prioritise visiting Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake , both located on Maligne Lake Road (100km return)
• Allow 2 hours to walk the 5km loop along the rim of Maligne Canyon . It includes six bridges, numerous impressive viewpoints and even several waterfalls. Shorter loops are possible as well
• Continue the drive along Maligne Lake Road to the Medicine Lake Lookout
• At the end of the road is Maligne Lake itself. Pre-book a cruise to Spirit Island , one of Canada’s most iconic and spectacular sights. Yes, the cruise is super touristy but there’s no other way to see the true beauty of Maligne Lake quickly ( padd l ing to Spirit Island takes around 8-10 hours return).
• If you have extra time, consider taking a short drive along Highway 16 beyond Jasper. The road parallels the impressive Athabasca River

Here to hike? Get an early start and head directly to Maligne Lake. The Bald Hills loop is the best ‘bang for buck’ trail in this area, offering spectacular above treeline views of Maligne Lake. The return distance to the summit is 15km with 715m of elevation gain

Jasper to Banff (Day 8)

Jasper to Banff driving distance: 289km (+10km sightseeing) Driving time without activities : 3 hours 30 minutes

Often cited as one of the best road trips in the world, the Icefields Parkway is a 230km long highway along the Continental Divide. It starts in Jasper and ends near Lake Louise, 60km west of Banff

The road is lined with towering mountains and immense glaciers, providing jaw dropping vistas no matter where you look.

There are numerous roadside viewpoints along the route, as well as hiking trailheads and picnic areas. Be sure to get gas and food supplies before leaving Jasper.

Best things to do between Jasper and Banff

• Driving the Icefields Parkway without stopping takes just less than three hours. To visit the below sights and stop at half a dozen viewpoints, allow four to six hours
• Our favourite roadside viewpoints are Crowfoot Glacier , Bow Lake, Waterfowl Lake , Weeping Wall , the Big Bend , Tangle Creek Falls and the Goats and Glacier Lookout (all marked on the road trip map )
• Athabasca Falls is a powerful cascade accessible within a very short walk of the parking area, optional side trail into the canyon (well worth the stairs!)
• Make a quick stop at Sunwapta Falls to see the almost roadside Upper Falls
• The Columbia Icefield  is the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies, with the Athabasca Glacier being the most accessible part. The easy Toe of the Athabasca Glacier  hike is 1.4km return
• The bright turquoise colour of Peyto Lake has to be seen to believed! The walk from the parking lot is uphill, just over 1km return
• Bow Lake is another great spot to stretch your legs during the latter half of the Icefields Parkway

Where to stay in Banff

While Banff is about double the size of Jasper, it also receives almost double the amount of visitors. The price of accommodation is usually a bit higher too. As with Jasper, I’d recommend booking as early as possible.

Our favourite downtown hotel is Moose Hotel & Suites . It is situated right on Banff Avenue, just a few minutes walk from a huge choice of restaurants, cafes and stores. One of the other highlights of the hotel is the huge roof top patio with hot tub.

There are a number of different campgrounds to choose from in the Banff area. Our preferred campground for tent camping is Tunnel Mountain Village 1 . The sites are relatively private and the campground is just a short bus ride away from downtown.

If your budget doesn’t stretch to staying in Banff, consider the nearby town of Canmore instead (still touristy but more of a local vibe, slightly lower prices). The Pocaterra Inn offers one of the best value stays in Canmore.

Budget not an issue? Consider staying in Lake Louise ! The Fairmont Château Lake Louise is the most iconic place to stay in the Rockies.

Banff (day 9)

There are so many different things to do in the picture perfect mountain town of Banff and surrounding Banff National Park .

For many people, spectacular Moraine Lake and Lake Louise are a priority. I would recommend visiting these lakes on your second full day here (day 10). Spend your first day exploring Banff and the immediate surrounding area.

Best things to do in Banff

• If you’re an early riser and loved Maligne Canyon in Jasper, consider an early morning trip to Johnston Canyon (30km drive from Banff). The 2.4km return hike to the Lower Falls takes less than 1 hour. Johnston Canyon is usually very busy between 10am – 3pm
• In the morning, explore the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive (24km). Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Walk on the shoreline of the lake or consider renting a canoe ($85/hour)
• Instead of returning directly to Banff, take a short detour to the Mt Norquay Lookout . It’s my favourite free viewpoint in Banff
• Feel like a hike? The 2km uphill trail to the top of Tunnel Mountain is well worth the effort (300m elevation gain) as it ascends the slopes of this prominent landmark to reveal a number of spectacular viewpoints over the Banff Townsite as well as Mount Rundle and the Bow Valley
• If that sounds like too much for you, reserve a spot on the Banff Gondola that ascends to the top of Sulphur Mountain . The views are simply spectacular. I’d recommend taking the bus (route 1) to avoid having to find parking at the gondola base
• Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring downtown Banff . If the shopping area doesn’t appeal, take a walk along the Bow River to see the falls (close to the Fairmont)

Here to hike? It’s possible to ascend Sulphur Mountain by trail, rather than gondola. The 11km return trip includes 665m of elevation gain. My friend Leigh has written a comprehensive hiking guide . It is possible to take the gondola down instead of hiking, but there is a fee.

Banff (Day 10)

Driving distance: 133km Driving time without activities : 1 hour 30 minutes

Start your day with a visit to Banff National Park’s most famous lakes – Lake Louise and Moraine Lake . Please note that Moraine Lake is usually open from late May to early October only.

Since Moraine Lake is only accessible by bus and Lake Louise parking is very limited (and also $21/day!), there are two main options:

• Use the Parks Canada park-and-ride shuttle ($8) located at Lake Louise Ski Resort, 45 minutes drive from Banff. There are regular reservable buses to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, with a Connector Shuttle.
• 8X Roam Transit bus from Banff to Lake Louise Lakeshore. This reservable express bus takes 55 minutes. The $25 Roam System Wide Pass includes access to the Parks Canada Lake Connector Shuttle to Moraine Lake

Best things to do at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

• In addition to spectacular lakeshore views, both lakes have great hiking opportunities
• Lake Agnes is a very popular destination from Lake Louise, 7.4km return with 390m elevation gain (allow 2 to 2.5 hours, note that it is uphill almost the entire way). A teahouse has been located at Lake Agnes for more than 100 years
• For a longer hike near Lake Louise, choose between the Lake Agnes/Big Beehive/Plain of Six Glaciers Loop (18km with 900m elevation gain) or a summit of Mount Piran (13km return with 900m elevation gain)
• In the Moraine Lake area, consider the Consolation Lakes trail . Starting just past the Rockpile, this 5.8km return hike features views of high alpine meadows, mountain peaks and the Quadra Glacier as well as plenty of pretty wildflowers and the two namesake lakes

Back in Banff, fill your afternoon/evening with any activities you may have missed yesterday. If you already purchased the $25 Roam bus pass, use it to take the bus to the base of the Banff Gondola (avoiding the need to walk or find parking!)

Banff to Golden (Day 11)

Banff to Golden driving distance: 146km (+56km sightseeing) Driving time without activities : 2 hours

This day is all about Yoho National Park . In my opinion, Yoho is the most underrated park in the Canadian Rockies. Plan to leave the Banff area relatively early to make the most of the day.

Best things to do between Banff and Golden

• Make a quick stop at the Spiral Tunnel Viewpoint . Depending on timing, you may be lucky and see a train pass through this impressive structure
• Parking can be a challenge at Emerald Lake after 11am, so head here next. Enjoy the views, rent a canoe ($90/hour) or walk the family-friendly 5.2km loop trail around the lakeshore
• On the way back to Highway 1, visit the Natural Bridge
• Turn east on Highway 1 and drive back to Yoho Valley Road . Please note, this road is 13km long with no services, no phone signal and several very tight switchbacks. Trailers and large RVs not permitted
• Takakkaw Falls , British Columbia’s second-tallest waterfall, is located at the end of Yoho Valley Road
• Back on Highway 1, head west towards Golden . If you have time, Wapta Falls is a worthwhile stop (3.2km return)
• Families and thrill seekers may prefer to check out the Golden Skybridge , host to Canada’s highest suspension bridges
• If you didn’t bring a picnic, Truffle Pigs in Field is the place to go for food in Yoho. It’s not cheap but it’s the opposite of a tourist trap, with everything is made from scratch, with quality ingredients. There’s ice cream too.

Here to hike? The Iceline Trail should be your priority today. Usually hiked as a 20km loop, the Iceline begins at Takkakaw Falls at the end of the Yoho Valley Road. Allow 7 to 9 hours

Where to stay in Golden

There’s much more to the small town of Golden than the assorted collection of motels, hotels, gas stations and fast food joints on Highway 1.

Take the signed detour and head downtown to discover heritage buildings, trendy bars and unique boutiques, all with the backdrop of the rushing Kicking Horse River and huge snow capped mountains.

Moberly Lodge ‘s quiet, spotlessly clean rooms are a welcome sight after a day exploring Yoho. Outside, there are stunning views and a hot tub, ideal for a post-hike soak.

If you’re on a tighter budget, Golden has a plethora of motels and chain hotels to choose from, with popular options being the Holiday Inn and Ramada (we’ve stayed at the latter twice).

For camping, consider the 72 site municipal campground , which backs onto the Kicking Horse River. An alternative is to stay at the Kicking Horse Campground in Yoho National Park but you’ll need to secure a reservation early.

Golden to Revelstoke (Day 12)

Golden to Revelstoke driving distance: 148km (+52km sightseeing) Driving time without activities : 2 hours

Two more national parks are on the itinerary today – Glacier National Park and Mount Revelstoke National Park . Your day will end in Revelstoke, British Columbia’s best up-and-coming adventure town.

Best things to do between Golden and Revelstoke

• Interested in the Golden Skybridge but ran out of time yesterday? Consider dropping by this morning
• Enjoy the mountain views from your vehicle on the drive to the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre in Glacier National Park. This informative centre is my favourite of its kind in the Rockies
• Stretch your legs on the Hemlock Grove Boardwalk (350m loop), which traverses a cedar and hemlock forest. I’d also recommend the Meeting of the Waters trail (3.3km loop) but it can be difficult to park
• Heading out of Glacier National Park, you’ll drive through a number of snowsheds , representing the huge amount of snow (14m!) received here in winter
• Entering Revelstoke National Park , consider stops at Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail (500m loop, was closed in 2022) and the Skunk Cabbage Boardwalk (one short section open in 2023)
• Arriving in Revelstoke , you have some decisions to make. The Meadows in the Sky Parkway is a 26km paved scenic drive into the alpine, with hiking trails and scenic viewpoints along the way
• If you’re travelling with kids, you may want to prioritise visiting Revelstoke Mountain Resort , home of the 42km/h Pipe Mountain Coaster (the only one of its kind in Western Canada)

Here to hike? There are so many options for this section! In Glacier National Park, choose between the Hermit Trail (6.4km return), Balu Pass (12.8km) or Abbott Ridge (15.6km). All three trails are very steep. In Revelstoke National Park, Eva Lake (14km) is an easier but still very satisfying day hike

Where to stay in Revelstoke

Perched on the edge of the Columbia River and surrounded by the Monashee and Selkirk mountain ranges, Revelstoke is a beautiful outdoor playground.

Revelstoke has a great choice of accommodation. If staying downtown is appealing, book a stay at the wonderful Regent Hotel .

The stylish rooms in this heritage building are surprisingly spacious. Better still, the complimentary breakfast buffet is the best I’ve had anywhere in Canada.

Travelling with the family or a larger group? Look no further than the Swiss Chalet Motel . The property is a 10-15 minute walk to downtown, with exceptionally reasonable prices. I stayed in a two bedroom suite with close family and we all had plenty of space.

Campers should make an early reservation for the Snowforest Campground in Mount Revelstoke National Park. It’s not the most spacious national park campground but the convenience (10 minutes drive from town on the Meadows in the Sky Parkway) is hard to beat.

Other local camping options include Martha Creek Provincial Park and Blanket Creek Provincial Park .

Revelstoke to the Okanagan Valley (Day 13)

Revelstoke to Kelowna distance: 197km (+5km sightseeing) Driving time without activities : 2 hours 40 minutes

The interior of British Columbia is host to a spectacular landscape of dry valleys, lakes and grasslands.

This is the Okanagan Valley and besides being beautiful, it is also Canada’s second largest wine region.

Kelowna is the biggest city in the Okanagan Valley (pop 140k). If you think you may be craving city amenities by this point, consider a night here.

For me, Kelowna is just a bit too busy. This is especially true in the summer, when the hot Okanagan weather attracts thousands of people from all over BC to this bustling lakeside city.

Vernon and Penticton are small towns located to the north and south of Kelowna respectively. While there is still plenty to do around Vernon , we do prefer Penticton (our home town, so we are somewhat biased!)

Best things to do between Revelstoke and the Okanagan Valley

• Have any railway fans in the family? A trip to the Revelstoke Railway Museum would be a worthwhile stop before leaving town
• The drive along Highway 1 from Revelstoke to Sicamous has plenty of pretty sections but not many places to stop. One of our favourite rest areas is the Last Spike , a historical site celebrating the completion of the railway connecting eastern and western Canada
• Sicamous is an ideal location for a break. The D Dutchmen Dairy is a family operated farm selling homemade ice cream, cheese and milk. Note that it does get very busy around lunchtime
• Turn off Highway 1 and towards the Okanagan Valley on Highway 97A. The highway skirts Mara Lake (consider a stop at the provincial park of the same name for a swim!) before travelling through farmland
• Vernon is 150km from Revelstoke and is a potential overnight destination (see below). If stopping here, my top three activities would be a swim at Kal Beach , a short hike ( suggestions here ) and a visit to Planet Bee Honey Farm
• Kelowna is another potential overnight destination. If stopping here, my top three activities would be a swim in Okanagan Lake , a winery visit and a walk along the waterfront promenade
• Penticton is another potential overnight destination. If stopping here, my top three activities would be a swim in one of the lakes, a winery visit and a trip to Munson Mountain Lookout

Here to hike? The Okanagan Valley is usually very hot during the day in summer. I’d suggest an evening or early morning hike. In Vernon, check out Middleton Mountain . Knox Mountain is a great pick in Vernon. In Penticton, check out the KVR Trail from Vancouver Place to McCulloch Trestle

Where to stay in the Okanagan Valley

Vernon, Kelowna and Penticton offer a wide variety of accommodation options. Summerland and Peachland are great alternatives.

In Kelowna, our top pick is the Hotel Zed . This renovated motel boasts funky rooms and an ideal downtown location close to Okanagan Lake. It has easy access to Highway 97 as well.

My favourite place to stay in the Vernon area is Sparkling Hill , a luxurious adults-only spa retreat. For a quick overnight hassle-free stop, however, I’d suggest the almost brand-new Fairfield Inn & Suites .

In Penticton, the Lakeside Resort has the best location in town. Right on the waterfront, most rooms have views of the leafy downtown area or Okanagan Lake itself.

For camping, we like Ellison Provincial Park near Vernon and Bear Creek Provincial Park near Kelowna. An alternative is Okanagan Lake Provincial Park North near Summerland. Click for more suggestions.

Okanagan Valley to Vancouver (Day 14)

Kelowna to Vancouver driving distance: 390km (+20km sightseeing) Driving time without activities : 4 hours 30 minutes

It’s the last day of your 2 week Western Canada road trip! Time to head back to Vancouver. The journey will take around 5 to 7 hours, depending on chosen route/stops.

For a more detailed version of this road trip section, check out this Vancouver to Okanagan Valley road trip guide .

Best things to do between Kelowna/Vernon and Vancouver

From Kelowna or Vernon, the most direct route to Vancouver is via Highway 97 followed by the 97C, 5A, 5 and 1.

• The first part of the journey is pretty scenic, with wide open views of Okanagan Lake and then a plateau area. Be sure to get gas before leaving Kelowna as there’s only one service station on the 97C
• Merritt is the best place to stop for lunch/gas/snacks. If you want to stretch your legs, I’d recommend the Godey Creek Trail (1.9km loop). Please note that there is construction happening in this area
• My favourite place to hike on this route was Othello Tunnels near Hope, but it has been closed since November 2021 due to flooding
• A great alternative is Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park a little closer to Vancouver

Best things to do between Penticton and Vancouver

There are two routes possible from Penticton – the same highway combination as above or a similarly timed alternative via Highway 3.

• The Highway 3 route is scenic but slower. The road is more twisty and has more drop-offs
• I’d recommend driving Highway 3 over the Highway 97C/5 combination as there are more interesting places to stop
• The small town of Keremeos is the fruit stand capital of the Okanagan region – pick up some fresh peaches, apricots or cherries for your journey (season dependent)
• Princeton is the ideal place to get gas/coffee/lunch/snacks
• Take an extended break in Manning Provincial Park . Drive up to Cascade Lookout (open July to Sept, 16km return) for amazing views of the surrounding mountains. Rent a canoe or walk around Lightning Lake (5km short loop, 9km long loop)

Returning to Vancouver, you have the option to stay in the city again or overnight close to the airport (YVR).

We’ve stayed at various hotels around Vancouver Airport over the years.

The big chain hotels offer standard, reliable service ( Sandman Vancouver Airport , Holiday Inn , Travelodge ). A complimentary shuttle to the airport is usually provided and sometimes breakfast as well.

On the upper end, there is a Fairmont right in the airport (the convenience!)

I’m always surprised at the above-average pricing for the airport hotels and, for that reason, we sometimes choose to stay in the city instead.

The SkyTrain from downtown to YVR takes 25 minutes and costs only $4.45 (+$5 from YVR to downtown).

Western Canada road trip: Top tips

In this section, I will share some final thoughts about planning your perfect Western Canada road trip.

The best way to save money while touring Western Canada is to camp.

• National park campgrounds (Parks Canada) average $30-50/night plus $11.50 reservation fee
• Provincial park campgrounds (BC Parks) average $20-40/night plus $6/night reservation fee
• Private campgrounds average $30-70/night

The downside is that you’ll need your own camping equipment. An alternative option is to rent an RV, so you can sleep in your vehicle.

It is possible to buy relatively cheap camping gear and accessories at Canadian stores like Walmart.

A full set-up with an entry-level 4 person tent, sleeping bags (2), sleeping mats (2), stove and other essential supplies would cost around $500CAD.

The specific campgrounds mentioned in this Western Canada road trip itinerary are very popular and, as such, travellers should reserve in advance.

• Reservations for vehicle-accessible national park campgrounds usually open in January for the following summer. The exact launch dates are usually revealed during the preceding December. Parks Canada reservation website
• Reservations for vehicle-accessible provincial park campgrounds in British Columbia operate with a four month rolling window . So if you want to book for 7th August, the date will be available to book on 7th April. BC Parks reservation website

Alternative road trip itineraries

While we think the above 2 week Western Canada road trip itinerary provides a great overview of BC and Alberta, we know that may not be perfect for everyone.

This road trip route does involve a lot of driving and only short stays at each location.

The great news is that it is easy to adapt the routing to create your own two-week Western Canada road trip itinerary.

Two-week itinerary with Vancouver Island

When I originally put this itinerary together, it included a short stay on Vancouver Island.

As mentioned, I have since removed this suggestion as the current ferry situation would make it potentially stressful (too many cancellations/delays).

Ferry issue aside, I think my new 2 week itinerary provides better pacing, with shorter driving days. It also includes an additional full day in the Banff area.

For those interested, itinerary for my original 2 week Western Canada route looked like this:

Day 1 : Vancouver Day 2 : Vancouver to Tofino Day 3 : Tofino Day 4 : Tofino to Whistler Day 5 : Whistler Day 6 : Whistler to Clearwater Day 7 : Clearwater to Jasper

Day 8 : Jasper Day 9 : Jasper to Banff Day 10 : Banff Day 11 : Banff to Golden Day 12 : Golden to Revelstoke Day 13 : Revelstoke to the Okanagan Valley Day 14 : Okanagan Valley to Vancouver

If Vancouver Island is on your bucket list and you still want to see everything else in this itinerary, I would recommend visiting Western Canada for a minimum of 16 days instead.

Follow the above outline but add an extra night on Vancouver Island (consider Parksville area) and stay in Kamloops and Valemount when travelling between Whistler and Jasper (rather than Clearwater).

Set on Vancouver Island but still want a taste of the Rockies and only have 2 weeks to spare? Check out this new BC Coast and Rockies road trip guide .

Two week itinerary without Jasper and Wells Gray Provincial Park

Not interested in going so far north (Clearwater/Jasper)? I would suggest the following itinerary.

Head directly to Revelstoke from Whistler via an overnight stop in Kamloops or Salmon Arm. Spend an extra night in Golden, the Banff area and the Okanagan Valley. Be sure to take the time to drive some of the Icefields Parkway.

This adapted itinerary would look like this:

Day 1 : Vancouver Day 2 : Vancouver to Whistler Day 3 : Whistler Day 4 : Whistler to Kamloops/Salmon Arm Day 5 : Kamloops to Revelstoke Day 6 : Revelstoke to Golden Day 7 : Golden

Day 8 : Golden to Banff Day 9 : Banff Day 10 : Banff Day 11 : Banff to Revelstoke Day 12 : Revelstoke to the Okanagan Valley Day 13 : Okanagan Valley Day 14 : Okanagan Valley to Vancouver

Three-week Western Canada road trip itinerary

Have three weeks to spend on your Western Canada road trip? Excellent! The extra time offers much more flexibility and better pacing (less time driving!)

I would suggest an itinerary like this:

Day 1 : Vancouver Day 2 : Vancouver to Victoria Day 3 : Victoria Day 4 : Victoria to Tofino Day 5 : Tofino Day 6 : Tofino Day 7 : Tofino to Parksville Day 8 : Parksville to Whistler Day 9 : Whistler Day 10 : Whistler to Clearwater Day 11 : Clearwater to Jasper Day 12 : Jasper

Day 13 : Jasper Day 14 : Jasper to Banff Day 15 : Banff Day 16: Banff Day 17: Banff to Golden Day 18: Golden OR Revelstoke Day 19: Golden to Revelstoke (or extra night in Revelstoke) Day 20: Revelstoke to Okanagan Valley Day 21: Okanagan Valley to Vancouver

As you can see, this more relaxed itinerary includes a stay in Victoria (beautiful oceanside Vancouver Island city), an overnight stop in Parksville (lovely beaches, close to the ferry terminal) and extra nights in Banff, Jasper and Revelstoke/Golden.

Our 2 Week BC Coast and Rockies road trip guide features detailed descriptions of the Vancouver Island sections of the above three week itinerary.

The Best Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip Routes: Highway 1 & Alternatives Canadian Rockies Road Trip Loop: Detailed 9 to 12 day Itineraries + Map

The Best Okanagan Valley Wineries: A Local’s Guide

What To Do in Wells Gray Provincial Park, British Columbia

Complete Guide to BC Parks Camping Reservations

How to Stay Safe in the Outdoors

Bear Safety in Canada: What You Need to Know

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One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Sunday 28th of July 2024

Thanks so much for your guide. We followed it pretty much and loved every second. Unfortunately we were evacuated from Jasper so found ourselves covering the same route back and having to rethink our trip! We ended up spending 2 nights in Sun Peaks and 3 in Kelowna, avoiding the smoke and fires of Golden. We’ll be back to finish the tour one day and hope Jasper recovers! On our way to Vancouver tomorrow so hoping to make some scenic stops on route! Will recommend your tour to others.

Monday 29th of July 2024

Hi Victoria,

Wow, I am so sorry that you had to be evacuated from Jasper! I hope you don't have too much trauma from that experience.

I'm very glad you found this guide helpful and I hope your journey back to Vancouver (and beyond?) was straighforward!

Raymond Keenan

Sunday 7th of July 2024

Great Guide, we're close to 80yr old, so we won't be hiking great distances. We're going to hire a car in Vancouver, drive around, stay in Hotels - Motels, get back to Vancouver, then make our way back to Brisbane, Australia. Any suggestions would be very welcome! God Bless, Raymond Keenan. P.S. We'll be on our Honeymoon!

Monday 8th of July 2024

Hi Raymond,

Congratulations on your wedding! The great thing about this road trip is that there is plenty of roadside viewpoints and short, easy walking/hiking trails to explore.

For example - Malahat Mountain (roadside viewpoint), Kinsol Trestle (completely flat 2.5km return walk), Cathedral Grove (flat 1 to 3km loops), Tofino area beaches (flat sand), Ancient Cedars Loop Trail in Ucluelet (mostly flat 1km loop), Englishman River Falls (flat 400m return to the first viewpoint), Shannon Falls (mostly flat 400m return), Brandywine Falls (mostly flat 1km return), the Last Spike (roadside), Giant Cedars Boardwalk (500m return, potentially open mid summer onwards), Emerald Lake (almost roadside), Natural Bridge (roadside), Takakkaw Falls (mostly flat 700m return), Spiral Tunnel Viewpoint (roadside), Bow Lake (roadside) and the Mt Norquay Lookout (roadside).

Just to give you some ideas! And when I say 'mostly flat' I mean there may be a slight slope along one section. No hills.

Thursday 16th of May 2024

Hi Gemma, thanks again for your wonderful itinerary and excellent advice. We are following very similiar route to above but in reverse. After collecting RV in Vancouver we are driving to Merritt for one night before driving to Revelstoke for 2 nights. I had planned this journey going through Kamloops but note your route goes through the Okanagan Valley and Kelowna. Would you recommend this route as more scenic despite being slightly longer travelling?

Friday 17th of May 2024

@Gemma, Thanks for advice Gemma, and apologies for misunderstanding of double post! Bookmarked your site for constant referral during trip. Thanks again :)

I just replied to your comment on the other post - I'll copy and paste my answer here for anyone else reading.

The more straightforward route is certainly through Kamloops. The northern part (Highway 1 junction to Oyama) is very scenic, winding through farmland, rivers and several beautiful lakes. Kalamalka Lake is a highlight.

Between West Kelowna and Oyama, however, the highway is very busy with both local and tourist traffic. The road does cross Okanagan Lake and you get some views there. Kelowna is a big city and driving through it in summer can take a long time. It’s not the most pleasant driving experience either, especially as the highway is surrounded by strip malls. The detour would definitely take longer than 40 minutes.

The part between West Kelowna and Merritt is not out-of-this-world scenic, consisting mostly rolling hills. You'd need more time to see the scenic areas.

As a day trip detour, I wouldn’t recommend it unless there is something specific you want to see.

Saturday 20th of April 2024

Thank you very much for all the information! We are traveling from Greece and planning to follow your itinerary but we have one day less than the recommended. Which stop do you think that it's best to skip?

Hi Andreas,

As much as I love the Okanagan Valley (I live here!), I would skip it on this particular road trip if you don't have the time.

Monday 19th of February 2024

Thanks so much for this fantastic guide. I'm planning a trip in late May but was planning your route in reverse, starting in Vancouver and heading towards Banff, last stop Whistler. Is there any reason you prefer starting at Whistler?

Tuesday 20th of February 2024

No - you can drive this route in either direction. When it was originally written, the first few days involved a trip to Vancouver Island and it was logical to do that first (catching a ferry early in the morning vs. later in the day). Driving to Whistler first does mean you will, on a clear day, get a beautiful view of Mount Robson when travelling between Valemount and Jasper.

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3-week roadtrip in Western Canada

Do you want to be sure to see everything? You love seeing stunning landscapes? Do you have 3 weeks of vacations you don’t know what to do with? This itinerary is made for you!

Get to see the all the gems of Western Canada: the Rocky Mountains , Vancouver Island , the famous Inside Passage between Prince Rupert and Port Hardy… You’ll feel like at the world’s end.

Here is a glimpse of the beautiful experiences awaiting in 3-week road trip to Western Canada:

• Stroll around the Granville Island Public Market to immerse yourself in Vancouver’s local culture
• Admire the wonderful natural gem that Cathedral Grove is in Campbell River
• Hike along the beautiful North-Coast Trail in Port Hardy
• Go on an excursion to observe whales from Prince Rupert
• Look at the fossils of Driftwood Canyon Provincial Park in Smithers
• Visit the Native-American village of Ksan in Prince George
• Try out the must-sees of Jasper National Park : the SkyTram and the Lake Maligne 
• Marvel at the gorgeous landscapes of the Rocky Mountains at Banff National Park
• Feel the adrenaline rush when rafting down the Illecillewaet river
• Snowshoe in winter, horse ridding in summer , Whistler has many activities to offer

To travel safely and without any worry on your mind, we recommend Chapka Insurance !

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Itinerary for the 3-week road trip in Western Canada

Vancouver > Campbell River > Port Hardy > Prince Rupert > Smithers > Prince George > Jasper > Banff > Revelstoke > Whistler

Some practical information before your road trip to Western Canada

For this itinerary, we recommend  renting a car from Hertz.  It’s possible to rent it in one city and return it in another without exorbitant prices and limiting hidden costs.

You want to buy a paper travel guide ? We recommend this one ! In our opinion, it is the most complete, the most visual and the most up to date!

Need a road map to prepare your itinerary? We recommend this one , the most detailed and the most pleasant to read!

The best period to do this road trip to Western Canada is between may and september . It’s when the temperatures are the most enjoyable, there are less chances of bad weather. More information here.

You can’t visit Western Canada without trying its seafood , British-Columbia’s specialty! Make sure you also taste the delicious fruits , you can especially find them during summer.

Contents : 3-week road trip in Canada

1- Vancouver – Stop 1 of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada 2- Campbell River – Stop 2 of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada 3- Port Hardy – Stop 3 of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada 4- Prince Rupert – Stop 4 of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada 5- Smithers – Stop 5 of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada 6- Prince George – Stop 6 of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada 7- Jasper – Stop 7 of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada 8- Banff – Stop 8 of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada 9- Revelstoke – Stop 9 of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada 10- Whistler – Stop 10 of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada

3-week itinerary in Western Canada : step by step

Stop 1: Vancouver

What to do in Vancouver?

The perfect blend of city and nature to start this 3-week road trip in Western Canada. 

• Stanley Park , one of the biggest urban park of North America. A spectacular view over the ocean and mountains.
• Granville Island Public Market , one of the best marketplaces in Canada with amazing cheese, fruits, pastries and fish shops.
• English Bay Beach , an astonishing urban beach, bordered by palm trees.
• Vancouver Art Gallery , a contemporary art museum also hosting international exhibitions. It is nowadays a major actor in Vancouver’s art scene.
• Dr Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden , a lovely and intimate garden where turtles swim around and might even come and see you. A real peaceful heaven in the heart of the city.

What more to do in Vancouver?

• Looking for thrills and unique experiences? We’ve found the perfect activity for you, a panoramic seaplane flight over Vancouver . It’s sure to be a sight to behold!
• Is your sporting side coming back to life in this city? Then it’s time for an electric bike ride around Vancouver !

Where to sleep in Vancouver?

• Mid-range: Only 1km from the centre, the Times Squares Suites hotel will satisfy you! Take advantage of its suites which are real flats, fully equipped with a washing machine and a balcony, and giving a view on Vancouver.
• High-end: Want to spend a night in one of Vancouver’s most legendary hotels? If so, it’s the Fairmont Waterfront . Just a 5-minute walk from the Gastown district, enjoy its outdoor heated pool, contemporary decor and well-equipped suites!

Stop 2: Campbell River

What to do in Campbell River?

Salmon’s world capital, this second stop of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada holds its share of adventures.

• Try out the traditional way of fishing salmon .
• Explore  Cathedral Grove , the provincial natural park. Hike through the over 800-year-old giant pine trees.
• Hit the road towards the Western part of the island and enjoy the wonderful landscapes.

Where to sleep in Campbell River?

• Mid-range: The conveniently located Anchor Inn and Suites offers comfortable rooms. The Campbell River Museum is a 2 minute drive away and the Campbell River Common shopping centre is less than 10 minutes away by car!
• High-end: The Comfort Inn & Suites will make all your dreams come true. Just 2 minutes from the pier, enjoy 24-hour service, a gym and comfortable suites.

Stop 3: Port Hardy

What to do in Port Hardy ?

For this third stop of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada, live the perfect adventure surrounded by wilderness, on Vancouver Island. 

• Take a hike on the North Coast Trail and you will feel like you’re the only one in the world !
• Rent a kayak and row along the islands’ rocky shores and creeks.
• You could even use the skills you learned on the Campbell River and try catching salmon !

Where to sleep in Port Hardy ?

• Mid-range: Stay at the Glen Lyon Inn , with its friendly staff, ocean-view bar and restaurant, and well-equipped rooms. You’ll also find tours to observe local wildlife within a 5min walk.
• High-end: The Kwa’lilas Hotel welcomes you less than 10 minutes’ walk from the waterfront and Port Hardy town centre. With its traditional style, this hotel has everything to charm you!

Stop 4: Prince Rupert

What to do in Prince Rupert?

Before getting to Prince Rupert enjoy the journey across the iconic Inside Passage, known as one of the most beautiful cruises in the world. Experience an outstanding 15-hour ferry cruise and get to see whales, dolphins and gorgeous landscapes.

This 4th stop of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada is the world’s third deepest natural ice-free port.

• Whale observation.  Go on day-trips and get to see marine mammals just a few meters / feet away.
• Museum Of Northern British Columbia . Discover largest variety of British Columbia’s Native American tribes art as well as its cultural and natural heritage.
• Explore Prince Rupert’s port, one the the biggest on the west coast. You’ll get to see huge cruise liners stopping in the city, along with other boats. You should also go to the Terminal Altin Interpretive center to get to know about this port and its functioning’s history.

Where to sleep in Prince Rupert?

• Mid-range: Located in downtown Prince Rupert, the Black Rooster Guesthouse offers contemporary furnished rooms and flats. On-site yoga classes and bicycle rentals are available.
• High-end: Located in the centre of Prince Rupert, the Crest Hotel features a beachfront restaurant and hot tub. Next door is the Adventure Tours facility, which offers whale and bear watching tours. All rooms have a view of the city or harbour. A pair of binoculars will be provided so you can enjoy the view from the large windows!

Stop 5: Smithers

What to do in Smithers?

Staggering mountains views are awaiting in this stop of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada.

• Go to  Driftwood Canyon Provincial Park , great place for fossil observation.
• Visit the  Smithers Art Gallery , a provinicial museum displaying local artists’ artworks.
• Take part in the  Bulkley Valley Exhibition , a festival occurring at the end of august. Come and discover the cowboy lifestyle on a wide-open area. You could even get to see rodeos, farm animal races and even more !

Where to sleep in Smithers?

• Mid-range: Enjoy an authentic Canadian experience at the Silvern Lake Trail Bed and Breakfast . You’ll receive a warm welcome and a delicious homemade breakfast in the morning. To top it off, there’s an outdoor hot tub and a stunning view of Kathlyn Glacier and Twin Falls.
• High-end: The Stork Nest Inn is less than a minute’s drive from the Trans-Canada Highway. This makes it a strategic location! Plus a gourmet breakfast is served every morning so enjoy!

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Stop 6: Prince George

What to do in Prince George?

This stop of the 3-week road trip in Western Canada is one of the biggest urban centres of Northern British-Columbia.  

• Go to the Native American village of Ksan . Walk through this historic village and you’ll feel like you are few centuries back in time.
• If you feel like you need greenery, go to  Lheidli T’enneh Memorial Park . Relax in this park after a long day of driving, you could go biking along its trails or let your kids play in the dedicated playgrounds for example!
• Do not miss the Ancient Forest Trail ( Chun t’oh Whudujut ), a forest with a humid microclimate. Take a lovely hike through its giant trees.

Where to sleep in Prince George?

• Mid-range: Canadas Best Value Hotel has an on-site restaurant. Only 2 kilometres from Treasure Cove Casino, the hotel offers spacious rooms, you won’t be disappointed!
• High-end: Located on a 125 hectare ranch in Prince George, Woodhouse Cottage offers private cottages! In addition to the spectacular setting, there are hiking trails nearby.

Stop 7: Jasper

What to do in Jasper?

A wild and authentic National Park. It is one of the gems of this 3-week road trip in Western Canada.

• Head to Miette Hot Springs , discovered in 1909. Enjoy a 40° C / 104°F – pool surrounded by mountains.
• Take the Skytram cable car in Jasper. Up Mount Whistlers, enjoy a gorgeous 75 km / 46 mile radius view.
• Do not miss Maligne Canyon , a narrow canyon thats 50 meters / 164 feet deep.  Cross the canyon on one of the 6 bridges and explore one of the many trails.

What more to do in Jasper?

• Get your family’s thrills on a rafting trip in the Athabasca Falls .
• Take in the tranquil scenery, watch wildlife and navigate the beautiful Maligne Lake on this perfect  day-trip to see the highlights in a few hours .
• For animal lovers, there are tours that focus on respectful wildlife viewing in the national park. So don’t hesitate to join in, whether your trip is in summer or winter .

Where to sleep in Jasper?

• Mid-range: Jasper Downtown Hostel offers accommodation in downtown Jasper. You’ll be staying in comfortable rooms or dorms just a few 100 metres from the city centre.
• High-end: Back to hotel excellence! The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge features an award-winning golf course, 8 on-site restaurants and a 930 sqm spa. The Marmot Basin ski area is also 30km away. All rooms are fully equipped, so it’s worth the diversions!

Stop 8: Banff

What to do in Banff ?

This city in the middle of a natural park will surely become one of the highlights of your 3-week road trip in Western Canada. 

• Fairmont Banff Springs , iconic building built in 1888. Enjoy a coffee or cocktail in one of its four lounges.
• Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies , over a century-old museum. Discover objects and artworks dating back to the 1800 up to today. Learn about Banff and its pioneers’s through its permanent exhibition.
• Banff National Park , in the middle of the Rocky Mountains.  Go discover a wild nature and astonishing landscapes.

What more to do in Banff?

• Making this road trip as a couple? Then add a romantic touch with a sleigh ride !
• Your adventurous spirit is back? Don’t hesitate to go for a hike at the Ice Canyon .

Where to sleep in Banff?

• Mid-range: Want to be cut off from the world between the Rocky mountains and be in a unique setting? Then the Banff Boutique Inn is for you! With its proximity to the city centre while being in the middle of nature, and its decoration that only this establishment has.
• High-end: Still from the same brand but that’s because they’re so great! The Fairmont Banff Springs offers swimming pools, ski resorts nearby … In short, everything you need to relax and enjoy!

Stop 9: Revelstoke

What to do in Revelstoke ?

Vacation resort in the Rocky Mountains, Revelstoke is a great stop of this 3-week road trip in Western Canada.

• Go to Revelstoke dam , a popular tourist attraction. It’s one of the biggest dam in British Columbia, we recommend going during summer / spring.
• Do not miss Mount Revelstoke National Park . Drive through the Meadow in the Sky parkway  (26km / 16 miles) and enjoy the forests, pines trees and subalpine flowers. Hike on the Giant Cedar trail to discover over 500-year-old trees.
• For a little thrill, you can also go rafting on the Illecillewaet River .
• Glacier national Park . Take the  Trans-Canada Highway and go through the park. Stop at the Roger Pass discovery center and learn about the complex British Columbia railway network.

Where to sleep in Revelstoke?

• Mid-range: For those who like comfort, modernity and a city centre atmosphere, book the Regent Hotel Revelstoke . With a range of facilities and a great view of the mountain, it’s the perfect hotel to pamper yourself after a day of exploring!
• High-end: Indulge yourself with a stay at Cornerstone Bed and Breakfast . This is the perfect accommodation for nature lovers who prefer to be away from the city centre. Beautifully decorated, serving a delicious breakfast, with comfortable rooms, this bed&breakfast has it all!

Stop 10: Whistler

What to do in Whistler?

Lovely mountain village, perfect to end this 3-week road trip in Western Canada. 

• Discover a ski resort with over 200 slopes and go to Lost Lake , where 25 slopes begin.
• Rent snowshoes and go hiking surrounded by gorgeous landscapes.
• Visit  Whistler Olympic Park , sumptuous immaculate snow where the 2010 Olympic Games took place.

What more to do in Whistler?

• Bring out your inner child and take a tour of 5 zip lines in Whistler !
• Do you love horses? Then spend a full day riding in the mountains of British Columbia’s Coast Mountains.
• What would a trip to Whistler be without a float plane ride? Don’t panic, we’ve got just the ticket! Fly over the Whistler Valley and get a 20 minute scenic flight .

Where to sleep in Whistler?

• Mid-range: For a mid-range hotel, you can still get access to small gems like the Mountainside Lodge , 550 metres from the Whistler and Blackcomb lifts. Each suite has a gas fireplace and a well-equipped kitchen.
• High-end: Enjoy Four Seasons excellence for a night! Four Seasons Resort Whistler offers a heated outdoor pool, 3 hot tubs and an 8 minute walk to the Whistler Blackcomb lifts! Rooms also offer mountain, forest or courtyard views.

Learn more about your 3-week road trip in Canada…

• Check out all the practical informations you need to know about the country by clicking here .
• Book a car rental at the best price, by this website  we recommend.
• To book a flight at the best price, we recommend you this website .
• You are looking for a great travel insurance  for your 3-weeks road trip in Western Canada?  We recommend you this one !

Do not hesitate to share your trip with us, we can’t wait to hear all about your adventures!

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A Western Canada Road trip: Best way to see Canada

Thinking of a Western Canada road trip? Get ready to be blown away by the jaw-dropping landscapes, beautiful cosmopolitan cities, and cute mountain towns of Western Canada. There is something for everyone on this Ultimate 18 Day Western Canada Road Trip Route.

Unveiling the Hidden Gems: Western Canada Road Trip Route

Psst! Canadians have been keeping a secret—Western Canada is home to some truly mind-blowing scenery. Trust me, when I say this Western Canadian road trip route will have you coming back for more! Mountains, rainforests, silky sand beaches, abundant wildlife, vibrant wildflowers, charming mountain towns, turquoise lakes that look like Gatorade, hot springs, and captivating history. No matter if you’re an adventure enthusiast seeking an adrenaline rush or simply looking to escape the daily grind, this stunning Western Canada road trip is one you will never forget!

Map of Ultimate Western Canada Road Trip Route

Access this map on google here

Start your Western Canada Road Trip by Flying Into Vancouver

Because Vancouver has a large international airport with multiple daily flights from many major centres, and is well served by ferry routes to Vancouver Island , highways and freeways throughout Canada and the US, this is the best bet to start your Canadian travels.

You might know that Canada is a big country geographically! It follows that if you are planning a road trip such as this, you will need a rental car. In order to include Pacific Rim National Park on this route, you will need to catch a ferry from Vancouver to Vancouver Island.

Ferries run to Nanaimo from Tsawwassen and HorseShoe Bay. Alternatively, there are flights directly into the Tofino Harbour that run from Vancouver Harbour. You can take the train from the Vancouver International Airport to Waterfront Station to get on a seaplane and save some time on the road.

If you are travelling on a weekend in the months of May to September, booking your ferries ahead of time is a very good idea. Don’t worry about missing out on the city of Vancouver, as you’ll stop here on the way back from Vancouver Island (and there are plenty of unique things to do in Vancouver !)

Alternatively, if you have less time to road trip Western Canada, save Tofino and the Pacific Rim National Park for your next Canadian trip. For a shorter route, start in Vancouver and head north East towards Revelstoke. For an alternate route, fly into Calgary and complete a loop heading West from Calgary to Banff.

Stop 1- Pacific Rim National Park (Tofino & Ucluelet)

Pacific Rim National Park is nestled along the enchanting West Coast of British Columbia . This vast expanse covers nearly 500 square kilometres of breathtaking coastal landscapes, waterfalls, caves, sea life, and pristine rainforest wonders. This is one of my absolute favourite places to explore, trust me when I say it’s magical. The perfect addition to a Western Canada Roadtrip and guaranteed delight for any nature enthusiast.

No matter the time of year, the Pacific Rim area promises an unforgettable experience. Check out the best things to do in Tofino and Ucluelet to plan your time! Bonus if you get sunny weather while visiting, you can witness mesmerizing sunsets at the beaches of Tofino.

Best Things to do in Tofino:

• Go whalewatching or explore tidepools in the area.
• Check out the beaches around Tofino
• Go hiking in Tofino
• Visit a Nordic Sauna
• There really are endless things to do in Tofino for all ages and abilities.

RECOMMENDED TIME TO SPEND: Plan to spend 3 nights, including the night you travel from Vancouver to Tofino in the Pacific Rim area. Once you’ve experienced this area, you’ll probably want to come back again!

Best Places to Stay in Pacific Rim National Park

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, Ucluelet Because of it’s beautiful location, surrounded by rainforest, guests love this resort! This hotel has a hot tub, swimming pool, and on site restaurant.

Duffin Cove Resort – Beautiful waterfront accommodations located right in the village of Tofino. 5kms from Chesterman Beach, all rooms have full kitchens.

Ocean Village Resort – Cottages right on the beach, indoor pool, pet friendly, full kitchens.

Once you get a taste of the west Coast; You might want to be even closer to nature. Of course, camping is a great option in the Pacific Rim area. Find information about camping in Tofino with this list of campgrounds in the Pacific Rim here.

STOP 2- VANCOUVER (WEST COAST CITY FOR YOUR WESTERN CANADA ROADTRIP)

Now that you’ve experienced the magic of the Pacific Rim , plan to head back to Vancouver (and the mainland).

Often confusing, here’s a tip from a local: Vancouver Island is not a part of Vancouver 😅. In order to get back to Vancouver, you’ll need to book a ferry (can be booked here ) or a sea plane flight from Tofino to Vancouver.

My local tip: You’ll want to pack a rain jacket, no matter the time of year! Because of it’s coastal location, Vancouver is known to get large amounts of rainfall throughout the year.

Best things to do in Vancouver

• Rent bikes and tour the seawall. Because Vancouver is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the seawall is a must do in Vancouver. You need to know that the paved bike pathway is one way (running counter clockwise) around the seawall. For incredible views, stop at prospect point, and third beach.
• Explore Granville Island. Once you arrive you will see that this can be a busy spot. Local -tip , grab takeout food from the market and head over to the park at the Splash park. This is a quieter spot and consequently will mean far less people and sneaky seagulls!
• Because of its location nestled in the rainforest, there are many spots to access nature right in the city! Pacific Spirit Park, Queen Elizabeth Park, and Fraser River Park are 3 beautiful parks worth a visit.
• If while in Vancouver, you have time and are okay with some driving in the wrong direction, head to Squamish. The views from the Sea to Sky Gondola are incredible, and there are hiking trails all around as well.
• Choose your cuisine as well as your restaraunt and eat some mouth watering food.

RECOMMENDED TIME TO STAY : Plan to spend 2 nights in Vancouver to get a real taste of the city! A person could spend many days in the city and not run out of things to do! Check out my local guide for over 50 non-touristy things to do in Vancouver .

B est Places to Stay in Vancouver

Because there is significantly less rain in the summer months, these months are busy season in Vancouver. During this time, accommodations definitely jump in price. PNW Locals know that really are only two seasons in Vancouver, rainy and dry.

Downtown Vancouver Apartment/ AirBNB Located right in downtown Vancouver close to beaches, shopping, food, and attractions. Private Pool and Garden with full kitchen.

Blue Horizon Hote l -Located in the West end of Vancouver, many amenities, and comfortable accommodations.

Rosewood Hotel Georgia a luxury hotel located in the heart of downtown Vancouver. It features modern accommodations, top-notch dining and luxurious spa services.

Stop 3 -Revelstoke and Mount Revelstoke National Park

The drive from Vancouver to Revelstoke will take about 6 hours. Of course this depends on who you travel with, and how many stops you want to make along the way. If you are like me, and like to take in the sights along the drive, there is plenty to explore between Vancouver and Revelstoke. Maybe that’s another road trip though!

Mount Revelstoke National Park: The Underrated Gem

Time to spotlight the often overlooked Mount Revelstoke National Park. Trust me, this National Park is highly underrated! With mountain landscapes as breathtaking as it’s neighbour Banff National Park, but with far fewer crowds, it’s a dream come true for many travellers.

Best things to do in Mount Revelstoke National Park:

• Hiking: There’s no better way to immerse yourself in the beauty of Mount Revelstoke National Park than by exploring its network of hiking trails. The park offers a range of trails suitable for all levels of fitness and experience.
• Scenic Driving Routes: Meadows in the Sky Parkway, a scenic drive that takes you up the mountain and offers stunning views of wildflower meadows and snow-capped peaks. From the summit, you can also access hiking trails that lead deeper into the park’s wilderness.
• Biking: If you like mountain biking, you will love Mount Revelstoke National Park. It has some fantastic trails to offer.
• Picnicking and Relaxing : Given this National Park’s scenery, it makes a great spot for a picnic. Find a peaceful spot to unwind and take in the fresh mountain air.
• Wildlife Viewing : Keep your eyes peeled for diverse wildlife, including black bears, elk, mountain goats, and a variety of bird species. Wildlife sightings are common in Mount Revelstoke National Park. Be sure to have your bear spray on hand!
• Snowshoeing and Skiing: Given the amount of snowfall in the area, Mount Revelstoke National transforms into a winter wonderland. The park offers opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on its trails. Plus you are very close to Revelstoke Mountain Resort, which is known for LOTS of snow.

Things to do in the town of Revelstoke

• Ride the Mountain Coaster at Revelstoke Mountain Resort.
• Check out the annual summer concerts at Grizzly Plaza . There are 58 free concerts in Revelstoke scheduled in summer 2023
• Take a ski trip to Revelstoke Mountain Resort for some of the best powder in Canada!
• Revelstoke has many swimming holes and lakes! It also has a great aquatic centre in the winter. Go for a swim .
• Visit one of Revelstoke’s many pubs and restaurants, such as The Village Idiot Bar & Grill or The Rockford Wok Bar & Grill .
• In addition to the mountain trails, there are many places to walk around Revy. T ake a stroll along the Columbia River where you can catch stunning views of Mt Begbie and other surrounding peaks.
• Spend a day exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glacier National Park (see above!), located just outside of town.
• Go rafting on the Illecillewaet or Eagle Rivers with one of Revelstoke’s many experienced river guides.
• Go to the F armer’s Market on Saturdays.
• Visit the Railway Museum , it’s so interesting!

RECOMMENDED TIME TO STAY : Plan to stay 2 nights in Revelstoke. You can explore the downtown core of Revy for the remainder of the day you arrive from Vancouver, and spend a full day exploring Mount Revelstoke National Park as well as Revelstoke attractions on your second day. After your second night, grab a delicious breakfast and take a short 30 minute drive from Revelstoke to Glacier National Park .

B est Places to Stay in Revelstoke

Sutton Place Hotel at Revelstoke Mountain Resort with a beautiful outdoor pool and hot tub area, this resort is located at the base of the Revelstoke Mountain Resort. The hotel features ski in/ski out suites with private balconies. The property offers ski storage, ski rentals, and a ski pass vendor on-site. Full kitchens are available, and is open year round.

Stop 4 -Glacier National Park and Golden BC

I’m about to spill the beans on Glacier National Park in Canada . Yes, you read that right, there’s a Glacier National Park in Canada too, and it’s an absolute gem!

Don’t confuse this Glacier National Park with it’s American name twin. This Glacier National Park is located in interior BC, right smack in the middle of Revelstoke and Golden. Trust me, this park is like a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered.

Best Things to Do in Glacier National Park BC

• Roger’s Pass Discovery Centre . Take a deep dive into the history and geology of the area. This pass played a pivotal role in connecting British Columbia to the rest of Canada when the Canadian Pacific Railway was completed. Although there is not much in the way of development now, this area is very significant to Canada’s history.
• Hiking i n Glacier National Park is a breathtaking experience. There are paths and trails suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Check out the TrailCollectiv app for detailed trail information and maps for hiking across Canada. Two easy hikes include Loop Brook Viewpoint Trail and Meeting of the Waters.

Oh, and before I forget, a little reminder that bears call this park home, so keep your eyes peeled and be bear-aware. The park has limited cell phone service.

After spending the day exploring in Glacier National Park, Canada, plan to stay in the mountain town of Golden BC just 30 minutes up the Trans Canada Highway.

Best things to do in Golden British Columbia:

With it’s location nestled in the mountains, Golden is a beautiful town and has many incredible restaurants with food from many cultures. There are a lot of fun things to do in Golden, no matter your interests!

• Visit the Golden Skybridge to cross Canada’s highest suspension bridge, a canyon swing, zipline, and a fantastic playground. The views are incredible even if you, like me, get really scared of heights!
• See Boo the Grizzly Bear at Kicking Horse Grizzly Refuge. Boo was orphaned by a poacher as an infant and was brought to this sanctuary created especially for him.
• Visit Northern Lights Wolf Centre
• Ski, snowboard, or mountain bike at Kicking Horse Mountain
• Go swimming, fishing, or trail running/hiking at Cabin Lake and the surrounding trails.
• Go white water rafting on the Kicking Horse River
• Dine at one of Golden’s delicious restaurants, some of my favourites include: Whitetooth Mountain Bistro (upscale, casual, delicious), Eleven22 (modern comfort food, great accomodations for dietary needs), Reposados (Tacos & Tequila, also vegan options), and Wandering Fern Cafe (a mobile coffee and pastry cafe)

RECOMMENDED TIME TO STAY : Plan to stay 1-2 nights in Golden, BC. You can explore the downtown core of Golden for the remainder of the day you arrive from Glacier National Park and the following morning. Plan to drive Golden to Radium after exploring the Golden townsite for the morning. Again, as with many Canadian destinations, if you have more time, there is enough to do for many days! A smaller road trip route in this area is the Golden Triangle, which runs through Golden and 3 Western Canadian National Parks.

B est Places to Stay in Golden

Camp Moose Trail Unique, beautiful glamping experience where everything has been built by hand.  Every log you see was either a tree that was taken down during clearing, or hauled in from a slash pile from up a nearby logging road.Each tent is heated via woodstove and there is a communal hot tub and sauna as part of the property.

Holiday Inn Express Golden Kicking Horse Part of the Holiday Inn Chain, offering a pool,hot tub, and complimentary breakfast.

STOP 5 -KOOTENAY NATIONAL PARK & RADIUM HOTSPRINGS -incredible additions to a Western Canada Road trip

Hold onto your snacks, folks, because Kootenay National Park is more than just breathtaking scenery—it’s a wildlife wonderland! Get ready to play a game of “spot the critters” as you venture through this diverse ecosystem. From elusive cougars and majestic bears to graceful moose and an array of rare bird species, there’s never a dull moment when it comes to encounters with our furry and feathered friends. And keep your eyes peeled for the iconic Big Horn Sheep, the park’s very own four-legged rock climbers. This is one of my favourite all season destinations, I love it in the winter, and equally as much in the warmer months.

Best Things to Do in Kootenay National Park BC

• Visit Radium Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
• Check out Marble Canyon and it’s turquoise waters and mountain views.
• Take a hike right from the townsite of Radium through Sinclair Canyon

Best things to do in the town of Radium British Columbia

• Visit the many hot-springs of the area ( Radium Hotsprings, Lussier Hotsprings, Fairmont Hotsprings)
• Check out the Columbia River Valley – paddle or float and be on the lookout for the many species of birds.
• Explore Hoodoos
• Rent e-bikes to explore
• Visit in the winter and go wild ice skating, skiing, or tobaganning
• Eat and drink at the many delicious options. Local tip- Something I discovered on my last trip to Radium. Radium Brewing offers a unique option to grab food from any other restaurant and bring it to the brewery for a full experience!

RECOMMENDED TIME TO STAY : In order to have time to explore, stay 2 nights in Radium, BC. After driving from Golden, use your arrival day to explore Kootenay National Park. There are many beautiful roadside stops, or head for an evening soak in Radium Hot Springs.Paddle , go kayaking or birdwatching in the Columbia River Valley, and explore the towns of Radium and Invermere your second day. Plan to drive from Radium to Waterton in the morning after your second nights stay.

Best Places to Stay in Radium BC

Radium Chalet The best views out over the Columbia Valley and those big mountain peaks! European style chalet with free breakfast and a delicious restaurant.

STOP 6- WATERTON

Now that you know about Glacier National Park in Canada, you might find it interesting to know that Canada does have a National Park that shares a border with Glacier National Park in the USA! Although it doesn’t have the same name, Waterton Lakes National Park borders Glacier National Park in Montana. This Western Canadian National Park offers a unique blend of mountain landscapes and prairie grasslands. Because development was stopped in the 1970’s, Waterton is a quiet National Park in the Canadian Rockies.

Best things to do in Waterton, Alberta

• Waterton Lakes : Enjoy the serene beauty of Upper and Lower Waterton Lakes, which lie at the heart of the park. Take a boat tour to appreciate the picturesque scenery, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters at your own pace.
• Take a Waterton Day tour, that includes tea at the Prince of Whales and a guided boat ride
• Red Rock Canyon : Marvel at the vibrant red rock formations that give Red Rock Canyon its name. Take a short walk along the canyon’s rim or venture down to the riverbed to witness the striking contrast between the colorful rocks and the clear waters. There are many hiking trails leading from Red Rock Canyon.
• Crypt Lake Trail: Challenge yourself with the renowned Crypt Lake Trail, a demanding but incredibly rewarding hike.
• Prince of Wales Hotel: Visit the iconic Prince of Wales Hotel, perched on a bluff overlooking Upper Waterton Lake. Admire the hotel’s unique architecture and enjoy a meal or afternoon tea with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
• Explore trails that start right from the townsite of Waterton. Cameron Falls is a popular, gorgeous view, that is accessible for all abilities and located right in town at the south end of Waterton.

RECOMMENDED TIME TO STAY : Plan to stay 2 nights in Waterton, AB. You can explore the trails and incredible beauty of the area during the days, and eat at the local restaurants, explore the boutiques and gear shops in the evenings. Most of the services and accomodations in Waterton close for the winter months (October to April).

B est Places to Stay in Waterton National Park

Prince of Whales Hotel A historical landmark in Waterton, with spectacular views over the lakes.

Kilmorey Lodge Located within Waterton National Park, family rooms, onsite restaurant

STOP 7-CALGARY, ALBERTA

Welcome to Calgary! A dynamic city nestled in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies. Calgary is known for its warm hospitality, vibrant cultural scene, and a plethora of exciting activities to keep visitors entertained. Most folks will have heard of the iconic Calgary Stampede, a world-renowned rodeo and festival. There are also many things to do, like exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Kensington and Inglewood, brimming with unique shops and delectable eateries, there’s never a dull moment in this energetic city.

Best things to do in Calgary, Alberta

• Explore one of the many city parks including Fish Creek Park, Nosehill Park, Bowness Lagoon, and Baker Park.
• Explore the neighbourhoods of Kensington, Inglewood, Marda Loop, and 17th Avenue
• Ride bikes to explore the city (or fatbikes in the winter!)
• Visit a steak house or the city’s first Vegetarian Restaurant.
• Do a street art tour with craft beer tastings.
• Take in a concert, cultural event, or sporting event.
• Explore the new Calgary Public Library
• Float on the Elbow River
• Take a city tour for the day

RECOMMENDED TIME TO STAY : Plan to stay 1 night in Calgary, AB. The drive from Waterton will take about 3 hours, then take the rest of the day to take Calgary in! In the morning grab breakfast before heading from Calgary to Banff. Of course, as mentioned with other destinations, there is plenty to do and see in Calgary for a longer time!

B est Places to Stay in Calgary

2 Bedroom Apartment in downtown Calgary Affordable, modern full apartment with stunning views of the Bow River.

Alt Hotel in East Village A hotel in East Village located close to restaurants, pubs, the zoo and science centre, and exciting neighborhoods.

STOP 8-BANFF NATIONAL PARK, ALBERTA

The Canadian crown jewel, Banff National Park. Nestled in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, this natural wonder has been captivating visitors since it became the first national park in Canada in 1885. Spanning over 6,500 square kilometers with pristine alpine forests, awe-inspiring peaks, and those famous turquoise waters, Banff is paradise! Sure, it may get crowded at times, but I have to say it is stunning and well worth a visit!

Must Do things to do in Banff, Alberta

• Scenic Boat Tour: Hop aboard a boat on Lake Minnewanka and prepare to be mesmerized by its crystal-clear waters and panoramic scenery. For a guided tour with historical insights, check out the Cave and Basin Historic Site.
• Hiking in the Canadian Rockies : Lace up your boots and venture into the majestic beauty of Banff National Park through its extensive network of hiking trails. From the popular Plain of Six Glaciers to the breathtaking Johnston Canyon, there’s a trail for every adventurer out there.
• Explore the Townsite of Banff: After a day of exploration, head to the townsite of Banff, where delightful restaurants, great shopping, lively nightlife, and beautiful accommodations await you.
• Ski and Snowboard: If you’re visiting during the snowy season, don’t miss the chance to hit the slopes in Banff National Park. With its iconic ski and snowboard resorts offering terrain for all skill levels, you’ll have a blast carving your way through over 7,000 acres of winter wonderland.
• Iconic Turquoise Lakes: Yes, they may get crowded, but a visit to the unbelievably blue lakes in Banff National Park, such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Peyto Lake, is an absolute must.

RECOMMENDED TIME TO STAY : Plan to stay 2 nights in Banff, AB. You can explore the downtown core of Golden for the remainder of the day you arrive from Glacier National Park and the following morning. Plan to drive Golden to Radium after exploring the Golden townsite for the morning.

B est Places to Stay in Banff National Park

Canalta Lodge Located 5 mins from the centre of Banff townsite, this hotel has beautiful amenities including outdoor hot tubs and firepits and a delcious onsite coffee shop.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a Canadian Rockies icon, known for its breathtaking beauty and grandeur. This upscale hotel offers fine dining and is located right on the shores of the aqua Lake Louise.

STOP 9. YOHO NATIONAL PARK, BC (can’t miss stop on a Western Canada Road trip!)

Now that you have experienced Banff, on to Yoho National Park. In Cree, Yoho, means “awe” and Yoho National Park definitely lives up to its name with its stunning mountain peaks, glacial lakes, roaring waterfalls, and ancient fossils.

Must Do things to do in Yoho National Park, BC

• Natural Bridge: Witness the power of nature at the Natural Bridge, a unique rock formation carved by the Kicking Horse River. Walk across the bridge and marvel at the turquoise waters flowing beneath you. It’s a great spot for photography and taking in the beauty of the surrounding scenery. This spot is accessible for all physical abilities including those who have physical disabilities or use a wheelchair.
• Takakkaw Falls: You won’t want to miss seeing one of Canada’s highest waterfalls. Takakkaw Falls is a magnificent sight, with water cascading 384 meters (1,260 feet) down into the Yoho Valley. There is an option to take a short hike to get closer to the falls and feel the mist on your face.
• Emerald Lake: You might now know that yes the water is really that colour! Emerald Lake is a vivid turquoise colour and oh so beautiful! This iconic lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and is a popular spot for canoeing, hiking, and simply soaking up nature.
• Burgess Shale Fossils: Because of its exceptionally preserved fossils, this spot has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site . Join a guided hike to the Burgess Shale to see some of the oldest and most unique fossils in the world.
• Wapta Falls
• Explore the historic town of Field, BC

RECOMMENDED TIME TO STAY : Plan to stay 2 nights in Yoho National Park (or just up the road in either direction at Golden or Lake Louise). As a bonus, you might get a little more time to explore Golden. It’s much more than you think when just passing through on the trans Canada highway!

B est Places to Stay Close to Yoho National Park

Emerald Lake Lodge -A beautiful mountain lodge with beautiful rooms overlooking the stunning Emerald Lake.

Golden Acres Mountain Lodge Featuring a garden and stunning mountain views. A beautiful sustainable mountain lodge in Golden BC.

STOP 10-BACK IN VANCOUVER!

After taking in all the sites of Western Canada, either fly out Vancouver to your home destination or take a day or two more to take in what the city of Vancouver has to offer !

WRAPPING UP: WESTERN CANADA ROAD TRIP

This Western Canada road trip will take you through 7 national parks and Canada’s most beautiful cities and mountain towns. Along the way there are opportunities for many outdoor activiites, eating delicious food, beautiful accomodations, and no shortage of big mountain peaks and stunning turquoise lakes! Each stop offers a unique experience, so be sure to plan your visits accordingly and make the most of your time exploring!

Jessica Sproat is the owner and author of Next Up Adventure, a blog that helps travellers find the best experiences and hidden gems, while seeking out an adventurous life (even with children!). Jess is a photographer, writer, and child development expert and has contributed to numerous discussions and publications around the value of travel and access to nature for people of all ages. She is the co-founder of an app called Trail Collectiv, which is an incredible resource! When she isn't travelling, writing, or working as a health care professional you can find her enjoying the finest things in life. The small things, along with her family.

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Western Canada in 3 weeks – Road Trip Plan from Vancouver to Canadian Rockies and Back

November 15, 2021

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I initially came to Canada on a Working Holiday Visa to do a road trip across the entire country. Since the visa allowed me a whole year for my stay I thought my plan should be manageable. 

I quickly learned it wasn’t. Canada is massive and unless I planned to spend the whole time behind the wheel sightseeing from the window of my car I quickly had to change my strategy.

I decided to shift my focus toward the Canadian Rockies and Western Canada, particularly the two most beautiful Canadian Provinces:  Alberta and British Columbia.   I spent over 14 months traveling between BC and Alberta. I’ve completed countless hikes and photographed many of the iconic spots in the Rockies. 

I have put together an  Outdoor Guide to the Canadian Rockies and Beyond  and with a clear conscience, I can tell you it will be your best online resource for planning your road trip across Western Canada. 

Know before you go

After seeing how popular Canada is in the summer, the number one piece of advice I can give you is to plan your trip well in advance.  Especially if your holidays fall within the busiest months of July and August. Often by January, many hotels are booked out for the summer.

As always my guides are completely free and if you find them useful, it would be awesome if you use the affiliate links provided in this post to book your accommodation, car rental, or motorhome. You are also welcome to share it with whoever might find it helpful. 

If you have any questions regarding the road trip plan or need advice, leave them in the comments! I always answer!

Vancouver – Canadian Rockies – Vancouver Road trip overview

The itinerary starts in Vancouver, one of the biggest transport hubs in Western Canada. It then heads north on the “Sea to Sky Highway”, stopping in Squamish and Whistler.

After spending a few days in the mountains it will take you into the Okanagan Valley, famous for wine and geothermal hot springs.

Afterward, it’ll be time to focus on the best part of the road trip – the Canadian Rockies. You will spend some time around quaint little mountain towns: Canmore, Banff, and Lake Louise travel through the world-famous Icefields Parkway, and visit the largest National Park in the Canadian Rockies – Jasper. 

On the way back west to Vancouver this guide will take you via Wells Gray Provincial Park and back along the Sea to Sky Highway to give you a chance to see all the things you didn’t manage to see on the way up.

How much time will you need?

Unless you plan on being in the car most of the time, I wouldn’t recommend trying to tackle this distance in less than two weeks. Three weeks however is in my eyes an optimal time. We all tend to rush through our lives, so giving yourself time to take it all in every once in a while will do you some good. 

If you have more time, consider  visiting Vancouver Island  or completing one of the awesome backcountry trips in the Canadian Rockies . 

If this journey isn’t exactly what you’re after, I have also made itineraries for the  voyage from Vancouver to Calgary , or  Calgary to Calgary road trip focused solely on the Canadian Rockies.  

Vancouver – Canadian Rockies – Vancouver Road Trip Map

Below you can find the map of the whole itinerary. By clicking on the top left of the map you will find separate layers marking the route, photography spots, hikes, points of interest, and many campsites.

To hide/show different layers mark the check box next to the layer’s name. You can also click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places. I will be talking about them as I break the itinerary down day by day

The Best Way to Travel Around Western Canada

Option 1: Rent a motorhome

Indisputably the best way to travel around Canada is in a Motorhome. With a camper, you’re never left with hotel bills and you’ll have the opportunity to be in the right place at the right time only having to pay small campsite fees.

When planning your road trip you can search through all the biggest campervan rental companies using the Motorhome Republic   booking search engine. A real-time saver. 

TIP: This itinerary travels in the region of 3,000 km. This information is important as you have to prepay for your kilometers if you rent a campervan.  

Option 2: Hire a compact car and stay in hotels

If you decide to rent a smaller compact car and bring your camping gear (or stay in hotels) use  Discover Cars  – It’s my go-to website when booking a car. 

If your motorhome doesn’t already include it make sure you buy a compulsory  Discovery Parks Pass  which costs ca. 150$ per vehicle and includes up to 7 people. The toll gate where you can pick one up is when you’ll be driving on the Meadows in the Sky Parkway as you enter Mount Revelstoke, National Park. 

Travelling in a motorhome? Here is what you should know about the campgrounds

When it comes down to campsites in Canada, you’re spoilt for choice, especially near all the spots enlisted in this plan. The majority of them are equipped with toilets and shower facilities as well as electric sites for those traveling in bigger motorhomes that require electrical hookups. 

I recommend campsites operated by Canada’s Park Authorities. Most of the campsites in the province of British Columbia are around 45$ per site per night.

Campsites in Alberta are slightly cheaper and you can expect to pay around CAD 40/per site per night. One site can fit up to 6 people so traveling in a group can be advantageous. 

In the peak summer months (July and August) you will find it very handy to book the sites at least 3-4 months in advance. The sooner the better. 

• All bookings in British Columbia can be made on the  BC Parks Reservation Website
• All bookings in the National Parks can be made on the  Parks Canada Reservation Website
• All bookings in Alberta (outside of national parks boundaries) can be made on the  Alberta Parks Reservation Website

My recommended 3-week road trip itinerary from Vancouver to Vancouver

Day 1 -3: vancouver to whistler on the sea to sky highway.

If you’ve been following my website for a while you’ll know that I am not a city fan. I always design my road trips around nature. This one is no different.

Although I have heard good things about Vancouver I always tell anyone who plans a road trip and has a very limited time frame, to not waste it on cities. They are all similar after all. If you want to see cities with lots of history go to Europe. When you come to Canada focus on its beautiful landscapes! 

Your first venture will be the drive along the Sea to Sky highway. You will spend your first two nights around this area. This road will be your gateway to Squamish and Garibaldi Provincial Park, eventually ending in the resort town of Whistler.

I have gone into much more detail on the  Sea to Sky Highway in a separate post  outlining the best stops and activities to do along the way, as well as top picks for accommodation! 

Day 3-4: Whistler to the Okanagan Valley

From Whistler to the Okanagan it’s a 400 km/5 hour drive via the Pacific Coastal Mountains and the rolling hills and valleys of the Okanagan. You will continue northeast on Highway 99.

Two of my favorite stops along the way are Nairn Falls and the tiny Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. If you leave Whistler early you can plan a stop at either for a quick hike. You’ll be driving back the same way, so if you don’t have time to stop here on the way up, you can do so at the end of your road trip. 

Due to the microclimate and milder temperatures than the rest of the country, the Okanagan Valley with its countless wineries and fruit orchards became the Napa Valley of Canada. Purchasing fruit in the local markets along with wine tasting at one (or several) vineyards are some of the must-dos here. 

Vernon, Kelowna, and Penticton are all cities in the Okanagan and boast many of the same attributes. They all lie on the shore of Okanagan Lake and each has its wineries and vineyards.

It’s a very relaxing place when you venture out away from the city centers, life moves slowly and it’s a nice chance to relax after exploring Whistler. Spoil yourself and book a tour around some vineyards. You can also  stock up on wine  and fresh fruit for the rest of your road trip!

Accommodation in Vernon (Night 3)

Fairfield Inn and Suites

For Luxury Fans

Sparkling Hill Resort

Day 4-5: Revelstoke and Glacier National Park

Your next destination after the Okanagan will be Revelstoke with a break in between for a soak in the hot springs. You will take 97 North first then Highway 6 East towards Nakusp.

It’s a stunning drive through hilly meadows. You can start to feel the earth around you getting bigger, rougher, and more jagged. This whole area has been created by the force of nature. One of them is the intense geothermal activity happening underground.

When driving from the Okanagan Valley to Revelstoke you should stop at the Halcyon Hot Springs or Nakusp Hot Springs for a chance to soak in the mineral-rich water. Nothing defines a “holiday” better than relaxing in a geothermal pool while gazing at the beautiful views ahead. Wouldn’t you agree?

On this section of the road trip, there are two ferry crossings both of which take you across Upper Arrow Lake. Both are free of charge and leave at regular intervals. The first, the Needles Ferry leaves every 30 minutes all day and the second the Shelter Bay Ferry leaves every hour finishing at midnight and starting again at 5 am. 

They both operate on a first come first serve basis and no prior bookings are required. 

After the second ferry crossing, it’s an hour’s drive to Revelstoke – the gateway to the Glacier National Park, where you will spend your 4th night.

Must-dos around Revelstoke

Meadows in the sky parkway.

The 26km parkway is a windy uphill drive that is home to many viewpoints and lots of wildlife. If you are not a hiker, this is your chance to summit a mountain without any effort.

Grizzly bears are a common sight near the summit and a myriad of hiking trails can be enjoyed at the top with incredible mountain vistas. Hint. Head there in the morning to skip the crowds and for the best chances to spot wildlife! 

The road is open from:

• 9 am – 5.30 pm between May 20th and June 15th
• 8 am – 5 pm June 16th to September 7th
• 9 am – 5 pm between September 8th and October 11th when it closes for the season winter season. 

Roger’s Pass

Another one of the stunning drives in British Columbia. Roger’s Pass is a famous mountain pass along Trans Canada Highway Number 1 across the  Selkirk Mountains in Glacier National Park .

You will be driving through it when heading to your next destination: Yoho National Park. Make sure you have your camera ready because, after each turn on this stretch of the road, your mouth will be opening wider! Oh, and we are just getting started! 

Accommodation in Revelstoke (night 4)

Regent Hotel

Best Western

Day 5-8: Yoho National Park & Lake Louise

Although Yoho National Park and Lake Louise are only a 20-minute drive apart, they are in two different provinces. 

Since accommodation in Yoho is even more scarce than in Lake Louise, my advice would be to base yourself there and explore from there. It will also save you from too many check-ins and checkouts! 

Best things to do in Yoho National Park and Lake Louise

Visit lake o’hara on a day trip.

If you have some determination in you, as well as tons of patience you absolutely should visit Lake O’Hara . I’ve been there twice already and it’s one of those places I plan on going back to in the upcoming year. Why? Because it’s freaking beautiful!

This fragile area is however subjected to limited visits and saying that the reservation system is a bit outdated would be an understatement. That’s why you will need patience to book your visit! If I sparked your interest in you check out my guide to Lake O’Hara. It will tell you how to score a spot and visit this region of Yoho National Park. 

Check out Emerald Lake and Takakkaw Falls 

There is no shortage of insanely blue and turquoise lakes in the Canadian Rockies and Emerald Lake is no exception. Where do you think it got its name from?  

As for the Takakkaw Falls. The whole picnic area at the base of the falls makes for a perfect lunch spot. If like me you are an avid hiker I would highly recommend squeezing in the Iceline trail in your itinerary. It starts near the base of the falls. Whenever I read any recommendations for  day hikes in the Rockies , the Iceline trail always scores at the top.

Hike around Lake Louise 

There are a lot of hikes in Banff National Park and some of the best of them are around the Lake Louise area. Plenty of companies offer guided tours too.

Whether you’re interested in an easy lakeside stroll or ticking off the summit of a nearby mountain I compiled  a list of my favorite hikes around Lake Louise  so you can get an idea of what you might fancy. 

Bear in mind that parking at Lake Louise is very limited and spaces often fill up before sunrise. Once they do the vehicles are turned around. It’s better to book a shuttle service with Parks Canada to ensure you get there stress-free.

See the World Famous Moraine Lake 

Moraine Lake is often the highlight for many visitors to the Canadian Rockies but take this as a warning. Only a few years ago during summer seasons, the parking lot at Moraine Lake or Lake Louise would fill up even before sunrise. This leads to traffic jams and overuse of the area.

TIP: Starting in 2023 , Moraine Lake Road will be closed to personal vehicles year-round. From June to mid-October, only Parks Canada shuttles, Roam Public Transit, and  commercial bus tours  are permitted to travel on the road .

This means you will need to plan if you want to include Moraine Lake in your Canadian road trip. Visit the Parks Canada website to learn everything about the shuttle service to Moraine Lake.

Accommodation in Lake Louise (Night 5, 6 & 7)

HI – Lake Louise Alpine Centre

Chateau Lake Louise

Day 8-10: Canmore and Kananaskis Country

You finally made it to the Bow Valley! I bet Whistler seems like a century away. Canmore is where I spent the majority of my time when living in Canada.

Call this place home for the next few days and thank me later! Don’t worry about driving past Banff either we’ll be visiting it on the way back up.

Canmore is also an ideal gateway into Kananaskis Country – an area in the Canadian Rockies that very few international tourists visit. 

Kananaskis Country is an amalgamation of over 10 provincial parks surrounding Canmore, many of which used to be inside the border of Banff National Park until its reduction in size in 1911. 

Things to do around Canmore

Scenic flight around mount assiniboine.

Due to the restriction on air traffic in the national parks, it’s not possible to do a scenic flight there, but because Canmore (and Kananaskis Country) lie outside of the national park boundaries flight options are available around here. 

If you’re unsure of where to go, my suggestion would be to do a scenic flight around Mount Assiniboine. Alpine Helicopters is one of the companies operating directly from Canmore. 

Check out some jaw-dropping hikes  

Canmore and Kananaskis Country are my favourite places to hike in the Canadian Rockies. I know I am repeating myself, but seriously, guys, they are just too good not to share!

Check out my post about the best hikes in Canmore and Kananaskis Country , which was a whole year in the making. I didn’t want to miss anything.

Practice your photography skills  

If the idea of hiking makes you cringe and you are more into photography, I’ve also got an article on the  best photography spots in and around Canmore . Some of them don’t require any effort to get to!

The Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

Unfortunately, wolves no longer inhabit the Bow Valley (Banff and Canmore), mainly due to irresponsible human activity. Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is a non-profit organization that rehabilitates and houses wolfdogs from all over North America, and it gives you a chance to learn more about these creatures.

Although the animals in the sanctuary aren’t strictly 100% wolf, some of these wolfdogs are extremely high-content and impossible to tell apart. It’s a fun activity for people of all ages and really illuminates the problem of rearing wolfdogs.

Accommodation in Canmore  (Night 8&9)

Blackstone Mountain Lodge

Solara Resort

Day 10-13: Banff & The Bow Valley Parkway

What’s next on the agenda? Well, pick up sticks and head 20 minutes along the Trans-Canada Highway to Banff. 

Banff National Park is as beautiful as they say, however to me personally the little town of Banff is a little overrated.

With a shopping strip on the main street, notorious summer traffic jams, and parking problems, it doesn’t really scream holiday. I sometimes wonder why would anyone want to travel halfway across the World just to go shopping. 

Maybe as a tourist, I’d view things differently but after being a resident of the Bow Valley for a while, my view is kind of skewed. 

Anyway, Banff is probably what you’ve been dreaming of when planning your trip to the Canadian Rockies so the last thing I want to do is to get you worried.

With a little bit of planning and booking your accommodation well in advance, you’ll have lots of fun here too! That’s why I’ve put together this itinerary. That handy piece of advice also goes for places like Whistler, Canmore, and Jasper.

Things to do around Banff

Bow valley parkway .

The Bow Valley Parkway is a shorter version of the Icefields Parkway, but don’t worry. You won’t be left high and dry in the awesome views department.

The 50 km stretch of road between Banff and Lake Louise is home to Morant’s Curve, Castle Junction, and my favorite – Johnston Canyon. The   Bow Valley Parkway is also one of  the best places to spot wildlife in the Canadian Rockies. 

Please note that From March 1st to June 25th, travel is not permitted between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. on the 17-kilometer section of the parkway from Johnston Canyon Campground to the Fireside Picnic Area. This is to ensure the area remains a high-quality home for wildlife. Remember to always keep your eyes on the road at any time.  

The best and most environmentally friendly way to explore the Bow Valley Parkway is by joining an e-bike guided tour connected with Johnston Canyon Walk.

See the best photography spots

Banff is a dream location for photographers and I defy any itinerary not to include it. Its quaint high street gets pretty crowded in the summertime and so do many of  the photography spots in Banff .

The best time to visit the locations is as early as possible. The iconic photography locations close to Banff village are Vermillion Lakes, Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, Surprise Corner, and the viewpoint up on Mount Norquay. 

Sulphur Mountain Gondola & Banff Hot Springs

If you didn’t get a chance to stop at Nakusp or Halcyon hot springs now is your chance. If you did, oh well you can always go again! The hot springs are located at the foot of the aptly named Sulphur Mountain.

The cost of the gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountains is 62$ per person which personally I think is a tad pricey. If you’re able, give your legs some exercise instead.

A series of strenuous switchbacks for 5.5 km (3.4 mi), offer short glimpses through the trees of surrounding valleys but will be nothing compared to the view when you make it to the Upper Gondola Terminal on Sulphur Mountain. 

Save the visit to the hot spring for later! There is no better way to relax after some exercise than to soak in the hot springs.

Accommodation in Banff (Night 10, 11 & 12)

Banff International Hostel

The M oose Hotel

Fairmont Banff Springs

Day 13 & 14: The Icefields Parkway

It’s time for the Icefields Parkway! If you haven’t heard of it already you are up for a treat.  If you think what you’ve seen so far was impressive, wait for the Parkway!  This road is the cherry on top of the cake. I really mean it! 

The 232 km stretch of road connects Lake Louise and Jasper encompassing what the Canadian Rockies are about: glaciers, jagged peaks, and lakes with such beautiful colors, it will be hard for your mind to grasp it all!

I have created a  separate guide dedicated to Icefields Parkway , including the best places to stop and all campsites, hostels, and lodges you can stay at along the way.  

Do everything in your power to travel along this road for at least two days! 230 kilometers may not seem like a lot, especially in a country as big as Canada, but there are so many beautiful spots along the way, that it would be a shame to just only spend one day on it.  

Hint:  Accommodation on the parkway is very limited  so make sure to book as far in advance as possible! 

Day 14-18: Jasper National Park

Wow, so you’ve just completed what National Geographic called “One of the Most Spectacular Drives in the World”. How does it feel? Pretty good right? Well, there’s even more to come.

Jasper is a small town that lies on the northern point of the Icefields Parkway. Its picturesque streets are home to many restaurants and its location makes it a great hub to nestle down for a few days whilst you explore the area. 

Things to do in Jasper National Park

Take the skytram up to whistler’s summit  .

As well as Squamish, Whistler, and Banff, Jasper has its own gondola too. It costs CAD 45$ and offers spectacular panoramic views from the top. You can hike to the top but it’s a 1000m elevation difference from the town. I haven’t yet attempted it.

Once at the top you can continue by foot another 200m in elevation gain to the summit of Whistlers Mountain or try the  Indian Ridge hike . An 8 km return hike to a spectacular ridgeline offering even more extensive views. On a clear day, you can even see Mount Robson! 

Check out one of these excellent hiking trails around Jasper

Jasper National Park is the biggest of the 7 parks that are collectively honored with the title of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Canadian Rockies and more area equals more hiking trails. Jasper has some of the best in the world.

There are so many  hiking trails in Jasper  that you’ll never be able to do all of them but you’ll certainly be able to give some of them a go. Some of the most popular ones in the area are the stroll along Maligne Canyon,  The Valley of Five Lakes, Bald Hills & Sulphur Skyline. 

Visit iconic photo locations

If photography is your cup of tea then Jasper has some seriously epic locations for you. Reflecting lakes, raging rivers and jagged mountains are common here but to make the most of your time in Jasper, read my article,  Where to get killer photographs in Jasper National Park.

Go kayaking on Maligne Lake or take a cruise to Spirit Island 

Spirit Island is one of those iconic locations in the Rockies that always appears on everyone’s Instagram feed. If you are looking for an easier way to get there, then a cruise is your answer. You can pre-book them online (if you are traveling in the high season booking in advance is a good idea).

Keen photographers will be saddened to hear that the cruises are not licensed to operate at sunrise or sunset. If you want to experience those times you have to get there via Canoe, Kayak, or a boat with an electric motor.

I hardly doubt any of us travel with one in their bag so I’ve gone more into the possibilities on my  multi-day paddling guide to Maligne Lake . 

The road leading from Jasper to Maligne Lake is also a stunner and black bears are a common sight here. 

Accommodation in Jasper (Night 14, 15, 16 & 17)

HI – Jasper

The Crimson

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Day 18-19: Jasper to Clearwater via Mount Robson

Heading west out of Jasper along Highway 16, you’ll pass the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson. The visitor center is ideally located to snap a picture of it or get some last-minute trail information if you’re planning on doing  the Berg Lake Trail  – another awesome  multi-day hike in the Canadian Rockies .

Hiking or biking part of it, to Kinney Lake only, is an alternative for those with less time on their hands. 

The Waterfalls

The next stop – Clearwater is the gateway to Wells Gray Provincial Park. After checking into your accommodation or campsite you can visit one of the famous waterfalls along Clearwater Valley Road. The first of which is Spahat Falls, the second is Moul Falls and last, but certainly not least, the iconic Helmcken Falls.

Bears can often be sighted on these trails and at the roadside so keep an eye out for them. 

White Water Rafting

If you’re feeling adventurous then consider going White Water Rafting along the Clearwater River. The river has everything from Class 1 calm water to extreme Class 6 canyons. 

Accommodation in Clearwater (Night 18)

Dutch Lake Motel

Ace Western Motel

Clearwater Lodge

Day 19-21: Clearwater to Vancouver via Joffre Lakes Provincial Park

It’s finally time for the last leg of your awesome road trip! If you are running out of time you can follow Highway number 5 from Clearwater and join Trans Canada Highway 1 and be back in Vancouver within 5 hours. 

I recommend however to travel back the same way you came up, that is highway 99. The views along this road are way more spectacular.

If you haven’t stopped at Joffrey Lakes at the start of your journey you should certainly do it now. This tiny provincial park packs one hell of a punch! 

The first Joffre Lake, framed spectacularly below the hanging Matier Glacier, is only a 5-minute walk from the trailhead car park. The next two lakes are a bit harder to get to, but worth every effort.

The 10 km return (6.5 miles) hike to the Upper Joffre Lakes should take around 3.5 hours to complete (even though at the trailhead it says it’s 4 hours one way!). It’s one of the top hikes in British Columbia so make sure you don’t miss out. 

You can stay your last night in either Pemberton or if your flight leaves early the next day, consider staying your last night in Vancouver.  

Accommodation in Vancouver (Night 20)

Hi – Vancouv er Central

L’Herm itage Hotel

JW Marriott Parq Vancouver

That’s it! I hope you will have an epic time travelling through Western Canada. As always any feedback is welcome. If you have any questions about this itinerary leave a comment below. I am always happy to help out! You can also find a lot more information in my  Canadian Rockies and Beyond Travel Guide! 

If you want to extend this road trip, consider  visiting Vancouver Island  or completing one of these  awesome backcountry trips in the Canadian Rockies . Happy travels! 

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57 thoughts on “Western Canada in 3 weeks – Road Trip Plan from Vancouver to Canadian Rockies and Back”

Hi Marta, Firstly thanks so much for all the information you have listed here. I just wondered if there was a good resource to view and find the relevant camping places along the route for if we were to hire an RV on our planned trip? Is there a website or something that could help me see those places?

Do you know a rough idea of costs to stay on campsites with an RV (probably a smallish one just for 2 people).

Thanks again, Sean

Hi Sean. Thanks for visiting! You can use Wikicamps. Campsites are around 40-50 bucks per night (depending if they are private or run by Parks Canada). However do bear in mind that if you travel in high season you will need to prebook your campsites in advance.

Thanks Marta, We’d be travelling in the second half of September, and into October. So also assuming the next question would be whether they are still open or not. Thanks for info on average costs as well. Cheers Sean

Hi Sean. Yes the campsites are still open then (some do close, but most will still be open).

Hello Marta, we planned to do a trip to Canada (and Alaska!) in 2019 (from Melbourne Aust.) but prostate cancer and covid killed that plan :(…. we are aged 77 yrs now and not very fit but want to start travelling again. I found your blog back in 2019 and had it stored in my files as part of our planning back then… We are now starting to think about a trip for 2025 in Sept/Oct covering the usual sights but also thinking we might drive to some of your quieter, less touristy places (we hate crowds!), however, there is no way we can “hike” anywhere perse’, gentle walks ok….. We are thinking about 3-4 weeks driving a car but don’t want to spend it all driving, so can we just ask what/where/how you would suggest we modify this 3 week plan knowing our restrictions, please?? thanks

Hi Alan! Thanks for visiting my blog and I am sorry to hear about your shattered plans but glad to hear you are on the mend and ready to start travelling again. Your question is really broad and hard to answer to be honest. I would probably just focus on spending more time in each town and take walks or guided trips (like wildlife watching or taking gondolas to viewpoints). Walking possibilities are endless in the Rockies. There are some really lovely walks around lakes (for example near lake Edith in Jasper) or along Kananaskis lakes near Canmore.

Hi Marta, Thank you so much for such a great plan. Myself and my boyfriend are hoping to rent an RV and do this trip between September 20th and October 10th. Would you think this would still be okay in an RV or will it be too late for campsites etc.

Hi Melissa. Thanks for visiting. Some campsites will be closed, but most will still be open, so you shouldn’t have a problem. It’s a lovely and quiet time and the autumn colours are beautiful. The only thing to keep in mind is that the nights can already get quite chilly. It would be good if your RV had some kind of heating system. Have a fantastic time!

Hi Marta! Thank you so much for all your helpful tips. We just came back home from the Canadian Rockies and had an awesome time! A small update: We wanted to drive the Bow Valley Parkway but it seems like the rules about the section between Johnston Canyon Campground and the Fireside Picnic Area have changed. According to the sign, the road was completely closed (except for bicycles) this year from May 1st to June 25th, so no time-based rule anymore. Carina

Hi Carina. Thanks so much for the feedback. I will make sure to update the post and let know the other travellers.

I am doing a trip in Canada in September, and I am keen to follow your amazing itinerary, however, I only have 2 weeks to do the trip. How would you suggest adapting this for that amount of time? I still need to start and finish in Vancouver.

Thanks heaps!

HI Josie. Thanks for following my plan. You could shorter the stay in Jasper, Connect the visit to Banff in Canmore and just stay for 3 nights in either (they are only 20 mins apart so you can still see all the sights by staying in one town). Also skip Okanagan and drive straight to Revelstoke. You can also shave off a day in Yoho and Lake Louise and do Icefields Parkway in a day. That will save you a few days. I hope that helps!

Thanks so much for putting this itinerary together. I will be traveling to Canada with my husband and 3 year old daughter from the 18th of September until the 12th of October (2024) and used your road trip plan as inspiration. We are flying in and out from Vancouver and what we love most about this trip is that it also added some time at the Okanagan. We are also very much citypeople and even though we are coming to see nature, we wanted to end in Vancouver to see the city.

We have planned to stay in Vancouver the last 5 days and we decided to stay at the Okanagan for a night more than your suggested itinerary. All the rest is directly copied from your plan. It has been a struggle though to find accomodation at Lake Louise and Banff and now we have found something in Field. I am wondering why you have chosen to spread the hikes in Banff between these to places and why you decided to do Canmore in between. I am trying to figure out if we could stay at Field twice instead, or maybe stay in Field longer the first time and then just stay longer in Canmore as well. It would then be 5 nights total in Field and 5 nights in Canmore (since your plan is 3 nights around Lake Louise, 2 nights in Canmore and 3 nights in Banff). I’m having a hard time figuring out where the best place to stay is for the best day hikes in Banff NP.

Hope you can help out 🙂

Hi Francesca. Thanks for following my itinerary! You can visit the sights in Lake Louise whilst staying in Field and you can also visit the sights around Banff when staying in Canmore. They are close to one another. I hope that helps!

I wish I had seen your posts before I started to explore Canada. I’m about to plan my 4th trip there and this time, it’s to repeat a road trip I did a few years ago from Calgary to Vancouver. I’ve already visited most of the places mentioned in your Vancouver – Calgary itinerary although I won’t mind revisiting some of those sites just because they are so spectacular and you just can’t enough of them.

Doing trail walks along the route was always the way we would explore places until last year when my wife broke every bone in her ankle in a bad accident during a trip to Europe. Unfortunately that’s the end of our hiking days 😢

However our travel plans continue, and I wanted to ask you for your recommendations for out of the way sights and hidden gems along the route from Calgary to Vancouver. The plan is to drive the journey in a rented car over 16-21 days staying in a combination of hotels and Airbnb. We have separate plans for Vancouver so this trip will just be one way.

The standard touristy attractions will not be a priority for me, and having already seen some of the Canadian Rockies, I know that walking is really the best way to appreciate what’s on offer. However doing hard or long walks is no longer possible and any walking trails you recommend would have to be manageable.

I would so appreciate your thoughts on this trip we’re planning to do. We don’t have any time constraints and if we need more than 3 weeks do this, that’s fine. For this reason too I won’t be pre-booking accommodation just because we won’t really know where we’ll be and for how long in a given location. Thanks.

Hi Peter. Thanks for visiting and I am sorry to hear about your wife’s accident. I do know many off the beaten path places but I am afraid they all require quite a bit of hiking to get to. It’s mostly multiday hikes. From my general experience anything that is beautiful and easy accessible is guaranteed to have many tourists nearby. I am afraid I won’t be able to help you much with your question but I do wish you a wonderful trip.

Hi, I am so impressed with your itinerary and am thinking of doing this during Fall (September/October) 2025. However, I would like to know if it is possible to catch the Northern Lights during this season. I visited Vancouver in 1986 (39 years ago travelling with a travel agency). My wish is to do it on my own road trip with my husband. Please advise. Many thanks for all your hard work.

Hi Violet. Thanks for your great feedback. Now to your questions. Whilst the northern lights do sometimes appear in the Rockies they are nowhere near as strong as in Northern Canada (Yukon and Northwest Territories or Manitoba). Most of the time you only see a faint glow in the Rockies. Shooting with long exposure can catch the colours. The really strong Aurora happens very rarely in the Rockies. If your objective is to see the northern lights then go more North.

Hello Marta,

First of all thanks for sharing your invaluable experience with everyone! it’s such a detailed plan with all considerations! we also live in Vancouver and are planning to do this around June. Since I can work remotely, I want to plan a 60-day round trip in way I get to work 4 days a week (Monday to Thursday) and take the other 3 to rest. Also, I will be doing this with my new TESLA Model Y, so there are some considerations around that, but as long as we take Trance Canada HWY we should be good! you have already shared a lot of great things here, I was wondering if you could help me plan better! Thanks again for your guide and information

Hi Alireza. You can send me a message via my trip planning advice page and we can take it from there.

As a first time visitor to Canada I appreciate the effort you put into this guide. I’ve saved it so I can reference it on the trip. Due to commitments back down under I can only visit in March, would most if the places you mentioned be open still? I’ll be in a campervan. Cheers

Hi. March isn’t an ideal time to travel. You should expect winter conditions in many places. March is still very much ski season. Most hikes won’t be accessible. Many campsites will be closed (for example along the Icefields Parkway). Can you still travel, of course you can, but just come well prepared, be comfortable driving in winter conditions and pack many warm clothes.

We are cruising from Australia over a 31 day period and arriving at Seattle on the 1st.May, and then Flying to Vancouver. We are planning an approx. 25 days of hiring a car and setting off immediately to Squamish/Whistler and back down to Okanagan, Revelstroke, Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, Wells Gray, back to Whistler and Vancouver. We then plan a few days on Vancouver Island and then head home. This itinerary is still being worked on with the various sites in each town and the duration. I have read your 3 week touring blog on this as well (Thank you so much) and as well as the many questions being put forward. Is this the best way to go, is first week of May too early to be travelling, I would add that we were planning to do the various walks to look outs /Water falls ,lakes ect but nothing too strenuous or dangerous. We were also unsure as to whether we should book hotel accommodation in advance…thankyou would appreciate any feedback…kind regards, John

Hi John. You can already travel the Rockies in May, but you might not be able to see everything. For instance Moraine lake road doesn’t usually open until Mid-May. You should be able to get hotels on the go as it is still very much low season. You can expect winter like conditions in high elevation places for example Icefields Parkway or Lake Louise but the valleys etc will be clear of snow. I hope that helps.

Hello Marta, I would like to ask you which one did you like more? The Canadian Rockies or the Dolomites? I would want to go to one of them this year but i don’t know which one to choose. If you would have to pick one, which one would you do again? Thank you very much.

Hi Sofie. I loved both for different reasons. I currently live in the Alps close to the Dolomites. I moved here to be closer to the Dolomites and I do love it, however sometimes I find it sad how developed the alps are. I swear if people could they would but a mountain hut every few hundred meters and a gondola to every summit. You don’t have that in the Rockies. There you can expect vast open spaces with not much civilization in sight. The Dolomites are certainly easier to travel around. The hut network makes it really easy to move across the mountains with very little on your back. In the Rockies I had to carry a 20kg backpack on my bag and all the food if i wanted to spend some time in tbe backcountry. The wildlife is also more amazing in the Rockies, but the wildfires can be horrendous and ruin your holiday. Dolomites win when it comes down to adventuring. The via ferrata network is just amazing. You need to ask yourself what your priorities are. If you are a solo traveller I think the Dolomites are much safer due to wildlife. I hope that helps!

first of all thanks a lot for providing all your knowledge here.

Me and my girlfriend want to do a trip like you suggested. We are coming from San Francisco by plane and need to chose the destination airport. Which city would be ideal to rent an RV from? I am sure this highly depends on the typical routes (Meaning if you want the best value option, try to do the tour in reverse, e.g. renting in Calgary vs Vancouver) – I hope this makes sense 😉

Many thanks once again for your help!

Hi Jonas. Thanks for stopping by. I reckon this is a hard question to answer. The GST is lower in Alberta if that’s what you are asking, but there are so many other things to consider that I reckon it might drive you crazy trying to find out the best deals + flights etc. You can either do Vancouver to vancouver trip or Vancouver to Calgary. Vancouver to Calgary is my favourite option because you starts at sea level and you leave the best for last (meaning the Rockies). I always tell people, once you see the Rockies a lot of other destinations won’t be as fascinating. I hope that helps a bit.

I’m thinking of traveling in the first three weeks of May. Is it too early for hiking? Are there specific routes you think are more appropriate? How about RV versus hotels? Any resources would be greatly appreciated!

Hi Sherry. Thanks for stopping by. May is still a bit early to hike. Although truth is you can find hikes at any time of the year. Lower elevation hikes, valley walks are generally doable year-round. Also trails that don’t cross avalanche terrain or are South exposed (here the snow melts a lot quicker). The official hiking season is around mid-June until the end of September. October is generally still ok to hike too. As for travelling in a motorhome. It’s doable if your camper is equipped with heating. The nights can still be cold. Also not all campsites are open in early May, but some already are. I did the Elfin Lakes Trail at the end of May. That can give you an idea how much snow there still is at higher elevations. Once again though in the valleys you will already have full on Spring. The great advantage of travelling at that time is the very small amount of tourists.

Fantasitic itinery which I am interested in following. However, I am struggling to understand exactly where you have stopped each night. Apologies if I am missing something obvious, but do you have a simple list of which town you stayed in each night so I can get an idea where and how long you stayed in each place?

Everything else is amazing and thank you for putting this together.

Hi Michael, under each location there is a subsection that is titled “accommodation in…. (night …) that way you know exactly where I was staying. If that section is missing like for example for night 1 and 2 that is because I am talking about spending time on the Sea to Sky highway and linking to another article. In that article you will find recommendation about where to stay or accommodation in along the Sea to Sky highway. I hope that explains it. Let me know if you have more questions 🙂

Hello We will be in Canada from May 13 th to June 3rd and would like to rent a RV to go from Vancouver to Calgary.

Our plan is to stay in Vancouver for 2 days and rent the RV. I am a little concern about the weather. Is it too soon to do the road trip ? Will it be too cold to stay in a RV ? Thank you for your response

Hi Mimi. Thanks for visiting. You should consider my Vancouver to Calgary road trip itinerary then. As for your question. It is fine to travel in the second half of May as long as hiking isn’t your main objective as some trails will still have snow on them. That doesn’t mean you can’t hike. You will just have to choose south facing trails, where snow melts quicker, valley walks or lower elevation hikes. Nights can be cool, but RV’s have heating systems in them so that shouldn’t be an issue. Day’s are already pleasantly warm. Mosquitos do start to be a burden during that time though, so definitely something to consider. I hope that helps!

Hi Marta, love this entire trip! We are planning on maybe doing this trip as closely as we can to your plan however we need to get it done in 16 days, is there parts of the trip which would more advisable than others to either skip or not spend as much time on? Love your site!

Thanks, Kyle

Hi Kyle. Thanks for visiting. I would recommend that you do a one way trip from Vancouver to Calgary (it’s possible to book a camper that way). Otherwise I would cut out the Okanagan Valley and from Whistler travel straight to Revelstoke. I would connect Canmore with Banff and stay in this area for 3 days instead of 5 as per my article. Also cut a day in Jasper NP. That will save you a few days alltogether. I hope that helps!

Are there hard copies of these itineraries available and how does one get them. I am interested in the 3week Canadian Rockies drive as well as the Vancouver Island drive.

Hi Charlotte. Thanks for visiting. I wish I could help further, but unfortunately I do not offer hard copies of these itineraries. The way I earn money through this blog is advertising, when I receive site visitors, like you. Hard Copies would basically take away my income.

My husband and I (doesn’t that sound very British!) are planning a three week RV road trip leaving on Aug 24 next year. I’m pretty certain we will do your suggested trip exactly but just wanted to check with you the amount of days in Jasper and Banff. We intend to do a lot of hiking but as we are by no means professional (we need to put some serious practice in between now and next summer) we will probably be doing more of the easier 5 hour ish day hikes that don’t require a degree in map reading. With this in mind is it still a good idea to spend that amount of time in both parks? I would really like to get some whale watching in too so am trying to see what we can fit in and what we could cut without missing out. And wish me luck getting tickets for the Lake O’Hara Bus!

Hi Mel! Thanks for stopping by. Wow you are really on track when it comes down to planning! Have you considered following my Vancouver to Calgary itinerary instead? It goes over 2 weeks and it will give you a few days to go to Vancouver Island too to see the whales. Starting in one spot and leaving from the other means a lot less driving and a lot more time to actually enjoy the ladnscape. I have itineraries for both. Just follow the links! If your objective is to hike then you really shouldn’t cut the days for JAsper and Banff NP.

Absolutely love your blog. So helpful and informative. We are planning on doing a route very similar to your 3 week roadtrip. We were originally planning on 3weeks in June 2024 however having read a bit more we’re wondering whether September might be a better option. We want to avoid the crowds of July and August but still want the decent weather and to be able to hike etc… Any advise on whether you would chose June or September?

thank you!!

Hi Emma. Yes if you can go in September. At the moment there is quite a bit of smoke in Jasper NP. It seems like the summer will already be quite smoky and filled with wildfires. Whilst September is still quiet touristy especially in main areas it is definitely a lot quieter then the summer holidays and school holidays. By September the skies are also usually clear and the wildfires subside. June is also terrible for mosquitos. If you were to travel in a campervan you would have to pack a lot of mosquito repellent 🙂 I hope that helps!

Your Knowledge of this beautiful country looks and sounds amazing . Myself and my wife are looking to take an epic adventure of western Canada for four weeks in May 23 for our joint 50th birthdays . Would the above be suitable. We are gonna hire a big camper van and travel and maybe finish on Vancouver island .wanna do as much as possible and see as much . Thanks

Hi Aaron. Sounds like an amazing journey that you are planning. You can combine this route with my Vancouver Island mini road trip guide . That will cover your 4 weeks. Let me know if you have any questions. Happy travels!

What an amazing and helpful website you’ve got. I’ve got a question. We have rented a motorhome for 6 weeks from 23 May – 6 July. We don’t normally like making reservations for campsites (or hikes) as we prefer deciding what we would like to do whenever we’re there. However, I’m starting to get a bit stressed when it comes to popular spots like Banff and Jasper. Do you think we need to book our stays for the month of June in advance as well? Takes a bit of the spontaneous go with the flow experience away.. Anyway, would love to hear from you! Keep up the good work!

Cheers, Stephana

thank you so much for this trip! it what I am going to base my holiday around! though we are camping/RV do you have any favorite camp ground or things we shouldn’t miss

thank you Lucy

Hi Lucy! Thanks for the great feedback. I really liked the Alice Lake campground near Squamish and I think campgrounds in the Kananaskis country are awesome too (for example the Upper Kananaskis campground). All in all I would say don’t miss Kananaskis country. To me it was even better than Banff NP. Luckily I do include it in my itinerary. I hope that helps. Let me know if you have any more questions! Happy travels!

Heya Marta!

Thank you for this AMAZING Blog you have created, it has given us so much information that we needed for our trip. We are hoping to plan our 3 week trip to Canada From June – July 2023 (hoping we haven’t left it too late to book flights/hotels/campsites etc) we are hoping to rent an RV for the entire trip I’m assuming insurance to drive vehicle is included in package on RV websites ? Do you have a rough guide or break down of cost of the trip would be ?

many thanks for your time,

Hi Steph. Thanks for stopping by and for your great feedback. Regarding the insurance, you usually are faced with several options when booking the RV, usually towards the end of the booking process, depending on the extent of the insurance, that you want to pick. Campsite bookings for next summer season usually open between November and January, so if I were you I would already start with the bookings as spaces are limited. As for the breakdown costs, it is really hard to tell and highly depends on the type of traveler you are, how many of you will be there, etc. RV rentals have skyrocketed after the pandemic, but so have hotel prices and everything else. Sadly. My rough estimate would be 200 CAD/two people including one meal daily in a restaurant, the other meals prepared by yourself in the van, campsites, and petrol. Activities, flights and RV would be extra

Thanks so much for your fab website. My boyfriend and I would love to drive a similar route to your Vancouver, rockies and back however we would love to go a bit further maybe up to Alberta and also do it in Winter. We would love a 4×4 with tent on roof type thing. I would love your advice with this as there isn’t much out there and want to be prepared.

Thank you so much. Eloise

Hi Eloise. Thanks for visiting. This road trip goes through both British Columbia and Alberta. Actually, most of the time is spent in Alberta, so it sounds like it would suit you right. As for driving and sleeping in a tent in the winter, it’s possible, but you really need to be prepared and know what you are getting yourself into. Most campsites are already shut, also it is bitterly cold, down to -30, -40 degrees. You will be faced with such issues as water tank freezing. You need to have a really good car battery, otherwise, you might wake up not being able to start your car in the morning. Some cars are equipped with special block heaters and you plug the cars in overnight to keep the battery warm and ready to start. Humidity can be a big problem in the tent in the winter, so your tent should be a 4 season one and your sleeping bag should be high alpine sleeping bags. If you are into this kind of thing and survival then go for it, but make sure you are also enjoying your trip along the way. Carrying snow chains might be useful. Also bare in mind that some roads are closed in the winter, the most prominent of all being the Moraine Lake road. You can however do other things like skiing, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating etc. Let me know if you have more specific questions.

Hi Mart, came across your post and found it super useful. Big Thank You to your efforts. I am planning a Vancouver – Rockies mountains – Vancouver in 14 days in November this year. Will it be a good time to drive a motorhome or is it better off to rent a car to get around? I am concern about November being close to winter season and the road condition might be a little challenging for motorhome. What would be your advice? Thank you.

Hi Bryan! Thanks for your feedback. I would say rent a normal car, not a motorhome. I reckon the cut-off time for Motorhomes is September, after that the nights get frigid cold and the humidity that builds up in the vans becomes a big issue. I stayed in my van until the end of October and honestly I was over it. It was a daily struggle to even get dressed. Also, the campsites will be shut by then so you won’t have that many possibilities to recharge batteries etc. Go for a small car and hotels. You will enjoy it a lot more! I hope that helps.

Wonderful! We hope we can finally go this summer (it got canceled last year). We do 3 weeks with a motorhome, but my family also wants to visit Vancouver Island. What would you skip and how long would you say we need for Vancouver Island?

Hi Manouk. Sorry about your cancelled trip last year and fingers crossed it will happen this year! As for your question. I do have a 4 day mini road trip to Vancouver Island and then a two week road trip from Vancouver to Calgary which you should combine, that would give you a total of 3 weeks with a couple of days spare if you wanted to get back to Vancouver instead. You ca find them in the road trips category of my canadian rockies guide. Please let me know if that helps and if you have more questions!

Hi Marta, while preparing our trip I came across your website. A great source of information and inspiration! In May we will make a trip through western Canada with a camper. I was curious about the map with your route, but it seems that it is not shown?

Hi Leon! I have recently migrated my site and the maps didn’t migrate properly. I had to upload them back up manually and I am happy to report that they are up and running again! Let me know if you have any troubles seeming them! Thanks!

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Disclaimer:  The locations and hikes on this website have been researched by the author and are believed to be accurate at the time of publishing. The author can take no responsibility for any unforeseen circumstances encountered along the routes. Anyone following these trails or road trip itineraries should be aware of any danger that hiking and climbing bring and understand that they are solely responsible for their safety.

Copyright © In A Faraway Land 2024

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• Los Angeles

Ten jaw-dropping stop-offs on a Western Canada road trip

See stunning vehicular vistas and then take some time out at these amazing pit stops on a road trip from Vancouver to Calgary

Best seen on four wheels, Canada is blessed with enormous landscapes, wide, wild expanses and roads that wind straight through the middle of it all. To explore lakes, waterfalls, national parks and the jaw-dropping contours of the Rockies in Western Canada, rent a car or take an RV on the road, then eat, sleep and immerse yourself in spectacular scenery. Set off from Pacific-facing Vancouver and head inland towards Calgary . Each windscreen vista will be more spectacular than the last, and these ten essential pit stops along the way will help you make the most of it all. Just watch out for grizzlies.

RECOMMENDED:  Full guide to the  best things to do in Canada

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

10 essential pit stops on a western Canada road trip

1.  granville island public market.

The centre of Vancouver is almost entirely surrounded by salt water – walk the city’s seawall to see from Downtown’s glinting high rises to epic sunsets at English Bay. Then, take a ferry from False Creek to Granville Island Public Market to refuel. Eat your way around stallsselling local produce and street food, including salmon cured in maple syrup.

2.  Vancouver Island

Forget those four wheels for a second. While you’re on Canada’s West Coast, you’ll want to get out on the ocean to spot the whales that call Vancouver Island ’s waters their home. Jump on the car ferry over to the Island or book a day tour with Prince of Whales (a marine wildlife-spotting company, not a Trump Twitter gaffe) to watch for humpbacks, orcas and grey whales.

3.  Sea-to-Sky Highway

Leave Vancouver via the Sea-to-Sky Highway , so called because it takes you from the ocean’s edge to the alpine forests and snow-capped mountains in Whistler and beyond. Set off in late afternoon to watch the fjords and islands of Howe Sound transform as the light fades. Stop off in Squamish to ride the Sea-to-Sky Gondola for more breathtaking (and knee-wobbling) views.

4.  Mount Revelstoke National Park

Once you’ve made it through the desert-like landscape along Highway 99 and the Trans-Canada Highway past Kamloops, the roadsides sprout greenery and mountains appear on the horizon again. Stop in Revelstoke to explore its small but mighty national park. Drive the winding Meadows in the Sky Parkway and roll past tall hemlock trees to sub-alpine wild- flower meadows. Just remember, you’re in bear country now...

5.  Wapta Falls

Park up on the western side of Yoho National Park at the Wapta Falls trailhead. This hike takes you over knotted tree roots through a silent alpine forest until you reach Wapta Falls. This dramatic section of the rushing Kicking Horse River boasts a huge wall of water framed by fir trees and backed by mountains. Bonus points if its spray creates a double rainbow.

6.  Emerald Lake

No prizes for guessing where this stunner of a lake got its name. Surrounded by mountains, this glassy stretch in Yoho National Park is all rich hues of green and blue. You can hike around it, watching as the lake changes from translucent jade to deep turquoise, or slide out on to the surface in a kayak. It’s a popular place, but quieter than nearby Lake Louise – arrive early and you’ll feel like you’ve got it all to yourself.

7.  Columbia Icefield

Alongside the border between British Columbia and Alberta, the Icefields Parkway is one of the most incredible roads in the world, lined with craggy mountains, lakes and the wild animals of Banff and Jasper National Parks (bears, mountain goats and bighorn sheep). The star is the Columbia Icefield, where you can get close to ancient glaciers. Step out over the Sunwapta Valley on the Icefield Skywalk glass observation deck, or hike up to the toe of the Athabasca Glacier. Don’t miss signs that mark how rapidly it’s been receding in recent years.

8.  Jasper National Park

Although you’ll say goodbye to your mobile phone signal on the Icefields Parkway , you can enjoy the feeling of remoteness once the sun sets thanks to a total lack of light pollution. Jasper National Park became a Dark Sky Preserve in 2011 and is full of stellar opportunities to get an eyeful of stars. For the best views, head out to Maligne Canyon, Medicine Lake or Pyramid Lake after dark to spot astral delights. You might even spy the Northern Lights.

9.  Maligne Lake

You’ll struggle to spot where water meets sky at Maligne Lake, an achingly pretty expanse that, on a calm day, makes a perfect mirror. You can set off on hikes from the edge of the lake, but the best way to see it is by boat. A 90-minute cruise takes you across to Spirit Island, a tiny land mass that might be one of the most snapped places in Canada. You can try to keep it off the ’gram, but resistance is futile.

10.  Banff Upper Hot Springs

All that hiking left you with aching muscles? Soothe yourself in steaming pools on the hill high above the picturesque town of Banff . The natural thermal waters have been attracting bathers since the 1800s and, when you’re immersed in the mineral-rich pool, it’s easy to see why. Don’t leave this alpine town without exploring: visit the castle-esque Fairmont Banff Springs hotel , which could easily be mistaken for the Grand Budapest.

Explore more of Canada

The 14 best things to do in canada.

• Things to do

Canadians are famously proud of their homeland and one jaunt through the Rocky Mountains or a stroll down Quebec City’s Rue Saint-Jean will show you exactly why. While it is far from possible to condense the wonders of the country into one list, here are 14 of the top contenders.

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Spirit of Western Canada & the Rockies Road Trip

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INTRODUCTION

This compact Western Canada & Canadian Rockies road trip focuses on two of Canada's most beautiful areas – the scenic drive from Whistler to Sun Peaks Alpine Resort and the spectacular Rocky Mountain national parks.

Soak up turquoise lakes, rugged peaks and glittering glaciers, plus take your choice of tours in jasper and banff for a personalized experience..

Itinerary at a Glance

DETAILED ITINERARY

The below itinerary reflects our recommendations for this specific trip. This itinerary is also available in the reverse direction.

Departing Vancouver | Departing Calgary

Day 1 Vancouver to Sun Peaks | 478 km/297 mi Enjoy the scenic journey from Vancouver to Sun Peaks with a stop in Whistler on the way. Highlights today include Shannon Falls, the Stawamus Chief Rock and Whistler Village before continuing along the Duffey Lake Road to see breathtaking views of Joffre Glacier.

Day 2 Sun Peaks to Jasper | 444 km/276 mi Follow the Thompson River through rolling plateaus to the snowy peaks of the Monashee Mountains. View Pyramid Falls and the expansive glaciers of the Albreda Icefields. Pass by Mount Robson at 3954 metres, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Arrive in Jasper late afternoon.

Day 3 Jasper | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 3 Excursions Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of three excursions Option 1. Maligne Lake Cruise Cruise Maligne Lake, where you can marvel at the magnificent shoreline and Spirit Island. Option 2. Jasper River Float Enjoy a gentle rafting tour on the Athabasca River for a unique perspective of Jasper National Park. Option 3. Jasper Nature Walk A guided nature walk featuring a spectacular array of rolling hills, jagged peaks, forests, meadows, marshes, streams, and stunning glacial lakes.

Day 4 Jasper to Lake Louise | Ice Explorer + Skywalk | 208 km/129 mi Today, travel through the spine of the Canadian Rockies along the amazing Icefields Parkway and encompass the ultimate glacier exploration. From walking on ancient ice with the Ice Explorer ride, to standing on a glass platform almost one thousand feet in the air at the Glacier Skywalk (included), today’s experiences will leave you with a special appreciation for this treasured region of the Rockies

Day 5 Lake Louise to Banff | 62 km/38 mi Today we suggest taking the scenic Bow Valley Parkway route which runs parallel to the Trans-Canada highway. Be sure to stop at Johnston Canyon and walk along the paved footpath to either the lower or upper waterfalls.

Day 6 Banff | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 4 Excursions Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of four excursions Option 1. Banff Gondola Maximize your views of Banff National Park with minimal exertion on a round-trip gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Option 2. Lake Minnewanka Cruise Admire views of the Canadian Rockies by boat as you cruise across the turquoise-hued Lake Minnewanka and over to Devil’s Gap. Option 3. River Explorer Canoe Tour Enjoy the serenity of the Bow River and marvel at the beauty of Banff National Park. Perfect for families, no paddling experience is necessary. Option 4. Bow River Horseback Adventure Saddle up for a journey through the celebrated landscape of Banff National Park on this guided horseback riding adventure.

Day 7 Banff to Calgary | 115 km/72 mi Today it’s time to say goodbye to the fresh mountain air and majestic sights of the Rockies. Drive to Calgary to drop off your rental car and begin your journey home.

Day 1 Calgary to Banff | 115 km/72 mi Leave the Stampede City of Calgary for the short drive to Banff, a resort town renowned for its scenic natural beauty and stunning wildlife.

Day 2 Banff | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 4 Excursions Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of four excursions Option 1. Banff Gondola Maximize your views of Banff National Park with minimal exertion on a round-trip gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Option 2. Lake Minnewanka Cruise Admire views of the Canadian Rockies by boat as you cruise across the turquoise-hued Lake Minnewanka and over to Devil’s Gap. Option 3. River Explorer Canoe Tour Enjoy the serenity of the Bow River and marvel at the beauty of Banff National Park. Perfect for families, no paddling experience is necessary. Option 4. Bow River Horseback Adventure Saddle up for a journey through the celebrated landscape of Banff National Park on this guided horseback riding adventure.

Day 3 Banff to Lake Louise | 62 km/38 mi Today we suggest taking the scenic Bow Valley Parkway route which runs parallel to the Trans-Canada highway. Be sure to stop at Johnston Canyon and walk along the paved footpath to either the lower or upper waterfalls.

Day 4 Lake Louise to Jasper | Ice Explorer + Skywalk | 208 km/129 mi Today, travel through the spine of the Canadian Rockies along the amazing Icefields Parkway and encompass the ultimate glacier exploration. From walking on ancient ice with the Ice Explorer ride, to standing on a glass platform almost one thousand feet in the air at the Glacier Skywalk (included), today’s experiences will leave you with a special appreciation for this treasured region of the Rockies

Day 5 Jasper | Freedom of Choice - Choose 1 of 3 Excursions Today you can personalize your day by choosing one of three excursions Option 1. Maligne Lake Cruise Cruise Maligne Lake, where you can marvel at the magnificent shoreline and Spirit Island. Option 2. Jasper River Float Enjoy a gentle rafting tour on the Athabasca River for a unique perspective of Jasper National Park. Option 3. Jasper Nature Walk A guided nature walk featuring a spectacular array of rolling hills, jagged peaks, forests, meadows, marshes, streams, and stunning glacial lakes.

Day 6 Jasper to Sun Peaks | 444 km/276 mi Today travel the ‘Yellowhead’ Route past the sprawling grandeur of Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Beyond Mount Robson Provincial Park, the highway follows the Thompson River through the snowy peaks of the Monashee and Caribou Mountains.

Day 7 Sun Peaks to Vancouver | 478 km/297 mi Continue to Lillooet, known as the land of the Gold Rush Trail and ‘Mile Zero’ of the Old Caribou Wagon. Leaving Lillooet travel the Duffey Lake Road to Whistler where a stop is a must for a short stroll through this charming alpine resort before continuing to Vancouver. Highlights today include breathtaking views of the Joffree Glacier, Shannon Falls & Stawamus Chief Rock. Your magical Canadian Rockies adventure comes to an end upon your arrival in Vancouver.

Package Includes:

• 1 night accommodation in Sun Peaks
• 2 nights accommodation in Jasper
• 1 night accommodation in Lake Louise
• 2 nights accommodation in Banff
• Maligne Lake Cruise
• Jasper River Float
• Jasper Nature Walk
• Ice Explorer ride onto Athabasca Glacier + Glacier Skywalk
• Banff Gondola
• Lake Minnewanka Cruise
• River Explorer Canoe Tour
• Bow River Horseback Adventure

Hotel Information | Moderate Grade

• Sun Peaks Resort - Coast Sundance Lodge | Standard Room
• Jasper - Moderate Hotel | Standard Room
• Lake Louise - Lake Louise Inn | Summit Deluxe Queen Room
• Banff - Elk+Avenue Hotel | Standard Room
• Sun Peaks Resort - Sun Peaks Grand Hotel | Deluxe Room

Hotel Information | Superior Grade

• Sun Peaks Resort - Sun Peaks Grand Hotel | Deluxe Mountain Village View Room
• Jasper - Forest Park Hotel | Woodland Balcony / Alpine Standard
• Lake Louise - Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Fairmont Room
• Banff - Banff Caribou Lodge | Superior Room

Hotel Information | Deluxe Grade

• Sun Peaks Resort - Sun Peaks Grand Hotel | Deluxe Balcony Mountain Village View Room
• Jasper - Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Deluxe Room
• Lake Louise - Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Fairmont Lakeview Room
• Banff - Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel | Deluxe Room

Hotel Information | Deluxe Plus Grade

• Jasper - Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | Premier Deluxe Room
• Lake Louise - Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise | Deluxe Lakeview Room
• Banff - Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel | Deluxe Mountain View Room

Not included:

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

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DATES & PRICING

Departs from Vancouver: Daily (Tour Code: Ex Vancouver SD10) Departs from Calgary: Daily (Tour Code: Ex Calgary SD11)

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Wineries & Spectacular Rockies Lodges of Western Canada Road Trip

Worked with Jennifer planning a road trip from the Calgary Stampede through Lake, Louise, Banff, Jasper, Sun Peaks and finishing in Vancouver. We worked together using some of my ideas and many of her ideas. She booked most of our hotels, sight seeing venues and car rental. We had a marvelous trip. Everything fell into place and each hotel she selected was great and a little different from the one before. Thank you Jennifer for all your help. Will never forget this trip.

Anne New Jersey, United States

My family recently completed the 7-day self-drive tour of Western Canada. I couldn't be more pleased with the trip! Jennifer B. was absolutely fantastic helping me figure out how we wanted to customize our trip and making suggestions. She was always so patient with my many questions, too!The lodgings that this trip placed us at were more than wonderful. We particularly liked Deer Lodge at Lake Louise. It is a beautiful historic lodge, just a few minutes walk from the Fairmount. All aspects of the tour were problem-free, and I really feel that the cost of the tour was very reasonable, especially for the quality experience we had.I highly recommend Jennifer and Canada by Design to anyone who wants to visit Western Canada!!

Marlene Schillinger - Virginia, United States

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Western Canada Self-Drive Road Trip Itinerary

I’m often asked what there is to see and do in Western Canada. I’ve lived in British Columbia (BC) all my life and have enjoyed many road trips exploring BC and Alberta. I’ve put together this guide to help with planning. This is a 6-night self-drive road trip that gives you the highlights of some of the most stunning and less crowded areas in Western Canada. I’ve driven this Western Canada Self-Drive Road trip myself many times, as I live in the area, so I am very familiar with places on this trip!

Day 1: Vancouver to Whistler

Day one will be packed with some gorgeous sightseeing opportunities. As you leave Vancouver, you will travel onto the Sea-to-Sky Highway as you make your way to Whistler . I recommend a stop at the impressive Shannon Falls and/or Brandywine Fall (pictured above) before continuing on to Whistler. When you arrive in the village, you can explore the village and you will have the option to take part in some extreme activities like the amazing zip-trekking through the forests that surround the village. There is also something for the very brave, a bungee jump in one of the gorges in the area. There is also the option to take the Peak-to-Peak Gondola, where you will be wowed by the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. There are also several hikes in the area and bike trails that you can explore. Your hotel is located at the base of Whistler Mountain, where you can enjoy leisure time, enjoy the hotel amenities, and explore Whistler Village. In the evening, there is also the option to participate in the Vallea Lumina, a multi-media night walk in pursuit of hidden wonders.

Day 2: Whistler to Sun Peaks Resort

Depart Whistler for Sun Peaks Resort. On the way, I recommend a stop at Joffre Lakes and a leisurely walk to the lower lake for some photo ops. Then, it’s on to Kamloops for lunch. There are many options in town, such as Casa Azul Mexican Restaurant , or you can enjoy lunch and wine tasting at Monte Creek Ranch Winery . You will then arrive at Sun Peaks Resort and check into the beautiful Sun Peaks Grand Hotel & Conference Centre .

After settling in enjoy an included excursion on the sightseeing chairlift. Once you reach the top at 6,000 ft elevation, you can explore the mountain, which has 18 hiking trails that range from relaxing strolls to exhilarating summits, all featuring magnificent wildflower displays. After this, you will have plenty of free time to enjoy the hotel amenities, including a big outdoor pool and have the evening at leisure to explore the pedestrian village of Sun Peaks Resort and sample some of the fine dining options the village offers. I recommend Sun Peaks Spa and The Great Canadian if you enjoy a good spa treatment. It’s Heavenly!

Day 3: Sun Peaks Resort to Jasper National Park

Depart for Jasper National Park. The first stop I recommend is at Spahats Falls near Clearwater in Wells Gray Provincial Park. This waterfall is the perfect spot for a photo opportunity. The cut in the mountain that the water has created over millennia is the funnel point for this gushing waterfall as it cascades down into the bowl below. If you want to spend a bit more time in Wells Gray Provincial Park, keep driving past Spahats Falls. Two more falls with easy access are Dawson and Helmcken (the most impressive).

Moving on, you can stop at Mount Robson before you reach the Alberta border, and on a clear day, this is one of the more impressive sights of the tour. That being said, even if there is some cloud around, it makes that photograph all the more mysterious. As you cross into Alberta, you will then carry onto the town of Jasper, where you will stay overnight. You will have free time to explore the town of Jasper and have dinner. I recommend dinner at Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen. Seated on the patio, you’ll be beside the rushing water in Maligne Canyon. To walk off your dinner (or beforehand), you can explore the well-marked trails around the canyon.

Just a few of the great places to eat in Jasper!

Day 4: Jasper to Icefield Parkway to Banff

Today, you will have another early-ish start, as there is so much to see and do. After you enjoy breakfast in the hotel, I recommend a drive to Maligne Lake. Enjoy the beautiful views on the way and then there is the option of an additional cost to take a boat tour to one of the most photographed spots in Canada, Spirit Island. After leaving Maligne Lake, you will then travel to the turquoise beauty of Athabasca Falls and Bow Lake. This will be your first taste of the unique colours that the lakes and rivers have in the Rocky Mountains.

Next, you will drive down the famous Icefields Parkway, where you can glimpse hundreds of glaciers. You will stop at the Athabasca Glacier, part of the Columbia Icefield, where you will take a world-renowned Ice Explorer onto the glacier. Here, you can walk around, take in the beauty, and even sip of millennia-old water. You will get the feeling of just how fragile our planet really is while you are up there. Your accommodation will be in the Town of Banff for the next two nights at a hotel in downtown Banff’s heart. Suppose you’d like to add an extra night to your itinerary. In that case, I recommend staying at Glacier View Lodge and walking on the glass-floored Glacier Skywalk… plus enjoy the amazing cuisine designed by Executive Chef Terry Port at Altitude Restaurant before continuing to Banff.

Day 5: Banff

Following breakfast at your hotel, get ready for a day of exploring. You can start the day off with a gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Here, you will take in the magnificent views of the valley and mountains surrounding the town of Banff before touring the townsite. Next, I recommend a stop for a stunning photo opportunity at Bow Falls before heading to the magical spires of the Banff HooDoos. You will then circle around to the Banff Springs Hotel, a site with many tales of ghosts, including the mystery of room 873. You will then have the rest of the day to navigate your way around this quintessential Rockies town. There are some fantastic shops for those needing retail therapy along Banff Avenue and well-marked paths running beside the turquoise Bow River, both on the town and golf course sides. Several optional activities can be booked for a discounted rate. These include horseback riding, whitewater rafting, canoeing, known as the Bow River float, hiking, caving, hot springs, fishing (early booking essential) and more. There are many dining options for you to choose from this evening.

For something unique, I recommend taking a tour of Banff in a replica vintage 1930s coach!

Day 6: Banff to Lake Louise to Revelstoke

Get ready for lake day! After breakfast and hotel check-out, head to the Rockies lakes. You will get to see Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Emerald Lake, three of the most beautiful lakes in the area. You will have plenty of free time to walk around the lakes or rent a canoe and head out across the lakes to see parts inaccessible by foot. Before arriving in Revelstoke, you will travel through Roger’s Pass from the lakes, a past steeped in history. You will stay overnight at the beautiful Sutton Place Hotel at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Enjoy the many resort amenities.

On your way through Golden, a must-stop is at the Golden Skybridge, which consists of two of the highest suspension bridges in Canada! You can have lunch and enjoy a kids’ play area with mini suspension bridges. There is something for all ages.

Day 7: Revelstoke to the End of Your Trip

Enjoy a lovely continental breakfast in the hotel. As you leave one mountain range, the Selkirk Range, and move toward the Coastal Mountains, there are many stops you can make along the way. The first recommended stop of the day will be at Craigellachie, the site of the famous Last Spike. This location is the historic meeting point of the east and west construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

As you travel into the Okanagan Valley, the desert region of Canada, you can stop at a local farmers market for lunch, followed by a cidery visit.

You can finish up the adventure with a stop at Othello Tunnels . These tunnels were cut from the granite cliffs in 1914 by the Canadian Pacific Railway connecting the Kootenays to the Coast. A total of five tunnels were cut out as part of the Kettle Valley Railway grade. The engineering effort it took to build this route was impressive, especially considering the limited infrastructure of the time. You will have the opportunity to walk through the tunnels and cross the cascading Coquihalla River. This area is also rich in film history, with several blockbuster film scenes shot at Othello Tunnels. You will be arriving back in Vancouver at approximately 8:00 pm after a week of amazing sights, fantastic memories and friendships that will last far into the future.

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I have an obsession with travel and photography and hope my experiences inspire you to travel. My focus is luxury travel and lifestyle including food and wine!

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Budget(ish) travel adventures to fit around your 9-5!

11 Awesome Places To Visit on a Western Canada Road Trip

If you’re planning a West Canada road trip, here are ten (ten!) spots that truly show off the beauty and atmosphere of the Alberta and British Columbia provinces…

Back in June 2017, I got to live out one of the ambitions I’ve had since I began travelling – a road trip in Western Canada. Having seen the pictures and heard the stories of this incredible place, it was something I just had to do for myself. And, as a stupidly awesome perk of my job at the time, I got to be part of the TrekAmerica annual #iTrekHere trip, taking the route of the Mountie tour [update – TrekAmerica are no longer in operation, however G Adventures offer a similar itinerary , which also includes time on Vancouver Island] .

The road trip took us through the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, through wilderness and forest, past lakes and waterfalls, and among the daily highlights of mountain-gazing, laze gawping and bear spotting, these are ten of the highlights that anyone travelling in West Canada should add to their itinerary.

Banff, Alberta

After leaving Calgary early in the morning, our first stop was the town of Banff, set in Banff National Park. It’s a really pretty town, with the kind of backstreets you’d imagine in a cult classic coming-of-age Netflix show. All the roads are named after animals you’re likely to find in the Canadian wilderness. Hello, Grizzly Street!

Banff town is the gateway to the incredible national park of the same name, with over 1600km of hiking trails to choose from. Maps from the visitor centre in hand, our first hike of this Canadian road trip was up Tunnel Mountain. It was a bit steeper than I’d hoped, being quite out of practice with my hiking – but the views from the top (and middle…and everywhere…) were beyond worth the effort. Also, I bumped into LOTS of friendly Canadian dogs *heart eye emoji* and even saw some elk mooching around on the mountainsides.

For dinner, you have to head to Park Distillery – one of the best restaurants I visited on my trip. Campfire-style food, topped off with a Smoking Smore Bar dessert. Yep. They’re as amazing as they look.

Where to stay in Banff

Tunnel Mountain Village II Campground ($), Samesun Backpackers Hostel ($$), HI Banff ($$), Banff Aspen Lodge ($$-$$$), High Country Inn ($$-$$$), Banff Boutique Inn (adults only) ($$$), The Rundlestone Lodge ($$$), Royal Canadian Lodge ($$$).

Lake Louise, Alberta

One of Western Canada’s best-known lakes, and for good reason.

Lake Louise was actually originally named Emerald Lake due to it’s bright green-blue waters, but the name was changed when guide Tom Wilson discovered another lake he decided was more deserving of the name (see below). The new name came from Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, daughter of Queen Victoria.

The first views of the lake from the dock are striking enough as it is, but a walk around the lakeside hiking path shows off the amazing colours of the water against a striking mountain backdrop.

I’d also recommend a nosy around the Fairmont Chateau, perhaps one of the most photographed hotels in the world, that dates back to 1890. The decor is as classy as you’d expect, and there are some shops where you can browse and pick up a Lake Louise souvenir or two.

Canada National Park Admission Fees

Lake Louise is part of Banff National Park, and you’ll need to buy a National Park Pass , which costs $10.50 per day, to access the park. If you’re visiting lots of places on a Western Canada road trip, it’s worth picking up the Discovery Pass, which costs $72, and is valid for 12 months at over 80 Parks Canada destinations including national parks and provincial parks.

Peyto Lake , Alberta

If you’re a fan of beautiful lakes, a road trip through Canada’s west is the gift that keeps on giving!

Peyto Lake is a glacier-fed lake in Banff National Park, in the valley of the Waputik mountain range. During the summer, glacial flour (tiny, fine-grained rock) flows into the lake, giving it a bright turquoise colour. There are no public transport routes, and it’s just over an hour’s drive from Banff. Believe me, it’s absolutely worth the trip.

Peyto Lake can get pretty busy with tourists – but we headed to Bow Summit early in the morning, and actually had the whole viewpoint to ourselves. This is one amazing view. Our tour leaders blindfolded the group, led us down the path to the viewpoint, and did a dramatic unveiling of the lake before us – and the reactions were incredible. 

Emerald Lake, British Columbia

Another day, another awesome lake. That’s Canada for you.

This one, Emerald Lake, is in British Columbia’s Yoho National Park. It’s the perfect place to try a bit of canoeing – I partnered up with our tour leader, Heather and we paddled out into the lake for ridiculous views. We got there as soon as the hire shop opened, which meant there was no one else on the lake other than our group.

When I visited, there were actually still traces of snow around the lake edges – in June!-, so we landed our canoe and built a snowman. He’s pretty cute, right? 

Other spots in Yoho National Park to check out

Takakkaw Falls – the second highest waterfall in Canada, at 373m Kicking Horse River – for the best white water rafting in the Canadian Rockies The Natural Bridge – a rock bridge carved by the Kicking Horse River Lake O’Hara – a stunning natural spot, preserved by restrictions on visiting . You can also hike the quiet McArthur Pass trail from here. Field – the only town in Yoho National Park, with a handful of cafes and shops in the summer months

Jasper, Alberta

If you want another cute little mountain town to follow Banff, Jasper delivers. Just imagine strolling along appreciating the cute, quaint streets, then looking up and BAM. Hello mountains. I think I could live here for the rest of my life and have that never get old. It’s also part of Jasper National Park, the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, also home to the stunning Maligne Lake.

If you want to see the town from a whole different perspective, the Jasper SkyTram. Taking you to near the summit of Whistlers Mountain, 2,277m above sea level, the town of Jasper (in the shape of a J!) and surrounding area stretches out as far as the eye can see. From the viewpoint, you can even take a small (and maybe snowy) hike up to the summit of the mountain.

For lunch, I can recommend Jasper Brewing Company for some amazing poutine that I basically INHALED. If you’re keen to get a taste of the local ales, there’s a tasting flight where you can try six of them – and you can even get yourself a tour of the brewery itself at certain times. The Blueberry Vanilla Ale was a particular highlight!

Where to stay in Jasper

Whistler’s Campground ($), Wapiti Campground ($), HI Jasper ($$), Tonquin Inn ($$), Mount Robson Inn ($$$)

Athabasca Glacier

How does walking on an ACTUAL GLACIER sound for an unmissable experience? Donning sexy yellow jackets and waterproof trousers, we strapped on our crampons and made our way out across the ice. If you’re worried about slipping over, the crampons really help. I mean…I STILL fell over, but that’s just my standard, really.

It’s not something you can do by yourself, but IceWalks provide a guide to show you the safe places to walk as well as giving loads of info about the glacier itself. Athabasca Glacier is part of the Columbia Icefield – the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies. On our walk, we filled our water bottles with refreshing glacier water, and held ice in our hands that could be hundreds of years old. If you don’t like hiking/can’t hike, there IS a bus tour available , but the walk was something special that I’d highly recommend if you CAN manage it.

Looking back at how far onto the glacier we’d come was impressive; but more impressive was how much further the icy landscape reached. But it might not be around for long. The glacier is shrinking by more than 5 metres per year, which means it could be completely gone within our generation. Learning this was one of those moments that really puts into perspective what humankind are doing to their earth – and made me think personally about how I treat the world we live in. It’s a true natural wonder – one everyone should see, and everyone should do their best to protect.

Booking your Athabasca Glacier Tour

A half day Athabasca Glacier tour with IceWalks costs CA$126.99, with departure times at 9.45 and 2pm daily from May – October. The hike takes 3 hours and you cover 5km, and although it’s a relatively easy walk there are a couple of steeper sections at the start to reach the glacier.

Mount Robson Provincial Park

And sorry, guys. I’m not quite done with lakes yet…because Kinney Lake is a beauty. In Mount Robson Park, there are some amazing hiking trails – one of which leads you to this epic lake. There are stone ‘beaches’ around the lake, which make for perfect lunch spots. Tucking in to a classic TrekAmerica wrap, I couldn’t think of many better places to bring your picnic.

Wells Gray Provincial Par k

While Banff, Jasper and Whistler may be popular spots to visit on any West Canada road trip, Wells Gray Provincial Park is a slightly lesser-visited destination. But believe me, there’s plenty to be seen.

Wells Gray is known for its waterfalls, with over 40 named falls in the park, Our first stop was the biggest name amongst them, Helmcken Falls – a 141m high spout of water crashing down to the river below. As a contrast, Dawson Falls is only 20m high, but a completely different style of falls, stretching across the whole width of the river. Apparently Dawson has the same proportions as Niagara Falls – but on a much smaller scale, of course!

Many of Wells Gray’s waterfalls are easily visited by car, but for Moul Falls, you’ll need to take a bit of a hike through forest and meadows. It’s worth the effort of the switchbacks that lead to the viewpoint because, when it’s safe to do so, you can actually walk behind Moul Falls itself.

I’ve actually never been skiing – so had no idea what a ski resort was actually like. Turns out, they’re pretty awesome. The town of Whistler is a mecca for adventurous travellers, all about working hard and playing harder. There’s such a fun, laid back vibe here and it’s a great way to unwind after days on the road. If you fancy some food, Sushi Village does a good ‘treat yo’self’ sushi menu, and Zog’s Dogs is perfect for a quick bite to eat.

During the daytime, a few of us decided to take the Peak2Peak mountain gondola. It’s a record-breaking gondola (cable car) that stretches unsupported 1.8 miles from Whistler Mountain to Blackcomb Mountain. The views (something I’ve talked about plenty in this post…) are truly something wonderful, with Whistler itself a cluster of pinpricks amongst the trees and the mountains from the top of Blackcomb. It costs CAD$108 for a scenic ride to Blackcomb and back.

Peak2Peak Tip: There are a handful of ‘glass bottomed’ pods that you can wait for – we found the queue to be much smaller on the journey back, although actually, it wasn’t THAT impressive and the normal pods are just as cool. 

Where to stay in Whistler

Whistler RV Park and Campground ($), Pangea Pod Hostel ($$), Pinnacle Hotel ($$$), Marketplace Lodge ($$$)

On my original Canadian road trip, we only scratched the surface of Squamish, stopping briefly to check out Shannon Falls. On my recent trip to Vancouver, though, we jumped aboard the Skylynx bus and visited Squamish without a car . Safe to say, after the experience we had there, I just had to update this itinerary to share how wonderful this small Canadian Rockies town is!

We pitched up at Mamquam Campground, a back-to-basics site with no showers or running water (campsites with more amenities are available!), just a short walk from the gorgeous Mamquam River. Squamish is the ideal base for getting out into some of the stunning surrounding trails – although hiking in 36 degree heat was quickly abandoned in favour of sampling the delights of a local brewery.

If you want to find out more about what to do in Squamish, check out my in-depth blog post here !

The best things to do in Squamish

Go hiking – with plenty of trails for all abilities, Squamish is a hikers’ paradise. Ride the Sea To Sky Gondola – for panoramic views of the surrounding area Hire a mountain bike, kayak or SUP – active adventurers will find plenty to do, and the Squamish Adventure Centre is your perfect starting point for booking in your activities. Craft Beer Trail – British Columbia has a thriving craft beer scene, and there are plenty of delicious brews in Squamish to sample.

Where to stay in Squamish

Klahanie Campground  ($), Squamish Adventure Inn & Hostel  ($), Crash Hotel Squamish  ($$), August Jack Motor Inn  ($$), Sea To Sky Hotel  ($$$)

Vancouver, British Columbia

Our Canadian road trip came to an end in the city of Vancouver – and sadly, we didn’t have much time to explore. But even from our walk around Granville Island, it really feels like the kind of city I want to explore more. Stopping by the Public Market, packed with street food and market stalls, I grabbed a Mexican burrito bowl and took a seat by the bridge, reflecting on an amazing adventure with newfound friends. Blissful.

Luckily, I was able to head back to Vancouver a few years later with my partner, and spent a lot more time getting to know this wonderful city a little better. It’s now one of my favourite cities in the world – particularly for the proximity to the outdoors, and just a really lovely general vibe. The food scene is wonderful, and I’ve shared my recommendations for the best cheap places to eat in Vancouver if you’re visiting on a budget.

The best things to do in Vancouver

Go Whale Watching – we splashed out on a whale watching trip in Vancouver and honestly, it’s one of the coolest things I’ve ever done. Wander the market at Granville Island – full of delicious places to eat and boutique shops, as well as Granville Island Brewing , which offers tasting flights of their local craft beers. Take in Stanley Park – a really lovely city park, transporting you from the metropolitan hum of Vancouver to 400 hectares of West Coast forest. Visit Gastown – a trendy, indie district that’s home to the famous Gastown Steam Clock. Hike (or get the gondola) up Grouse Mountain – a peak with amazing views over Vancouver, accessed by a 1.8-mile trail featuring 2,830 stairs, or the much less tiring gondola. Capilano Suspension Bridge – 230m above the River Capilano, brave visitors can walk 405m through the temperate rainforest in the northern reaches of Vancouver.

Where to stay in Vancouver

Vancouver isn’t the cheap place to find accommodation, however if you book in plenty of advance, you can often find deals on smaller guesthouses, or spots a little outside the main metropolitan centres.

Capilano River RV Park and Campground ($), Samesun Hostel ($$) [temporarily closed] , Cambie Hostel ($$), Century Plaza Hotel ($$$), Sonder at Revival ($$$), Hyatt Regency ($$$$)

Extending your Western Canada Road Trip: Vancouver Island

Still not done with all that magical nature? Vancouver Island is a true outdoor-lovers paradise, its 31,285 square kilometres brimming with intriguing forests, secluded beaches, and fascinating wildlife.

To get from Vancouver to Vancouver Island, there’s a car ferry that takes 1hr 40mins, departing from Horseshoe Bay ferry port to Nanaimo. A return trip for a vehicle and two passengers costs around CA$120. From there, your adventure begins!

What to do on Vancouver Island

A Vancouver Island road trip could be a whole blog post on it’s own, but here are just a handful of highlights:

Visit Victoria – In BC’s capital city Victorian architecture, plenty of parks and gardens and delicious food. Bear watching trips – Head to Tofino to join a boat tour around the island’s beaches, looking out for black bears along the coast. Or, if you prefer grizzlies, you can join a tour from Telegraph Cove. Pacific Rim National Park – A beachside natural reserve with 75km of hiking trails and over 100 islands and islets. Strathcona Provincial Park – Hike, bike and canoe the valleys and peaks of this mountainous park.

Planning your Western Canada Road Trip

The most popular route for a West Canada road trip is from Calgary to Vancouver – or the reverse. The direct drive time from Calgary to Vancouver along the Trans-Canada Highway is around 10.5hrs – but obviously, this doesn’t take into account all the must-visit stops along the way. I’d say for the ultimate Rockies road trip, you need at least 2 weeks to pack in all of the above locations – but if you have more time to travel even more slowly, even better!

Hiring a car in Canada

The most budget-friendly way to hire a car in Canada for a Rockies road trip is to fly to Calgary – rental prices are cheaper here than in Vancouver. I’ve just found two weeks Calgary-Calgary in May priced from just £215, whereas for the same dates, a one way trip from Calgary to Vancouver coming in at around £600-700.

If you’re not quite up for camping, but want a bit more of that authentic Canadian adventure experience, you could also look at RV/campervan hire – it’s a lot more expensive, but a great way to combine your method of transport with built-in accommodation. Indie Campers have a base in Calgary too.

Finding accommodation in the Rockies

In my opinion, camping is the absolute BEST way to do a road trip in the Rockies – there’s no better feeling than opening your tent and immediately being met by the amazing natural surroundings. It’s also a really cost-effective way to travel – campground pitch costs are as low as $10 per night, and there are plenty of campsites with great facilities for washing and cooking.

If you’re really against the idea of spending your road trip under canvas, then it’s worth booking your accomodation as far in advance as you can – the popular spots tend to book up quickly, especially for the cheaper accommodation options.

If you love nature, outdoorsy activities and more incredible views than you could even dream of, a road trip in Western Canada will be your absolute dream. It’s doable on a budget, if you travel out of the peak summer season and choose camping options for accommodation. Genuinlely, this will forever remain one of the best trips I’ve taken, and would absolutely recommend driving the Canadian Rockies to anyone!

More Canada travel:  A Helicopter Ride Over The Canadian Rockies

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Hi, I'm Milly! I'm here to help you maximise your time and budget when travelling. I spent five years working in the travel industry, and have been travelling around my 9-5 since 2016. I love outdoor adventures, exploring new cities on foot, travelling responsibly and respectfully - and eating as much as humanly possible!

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Where to Go on a Western Canada Road Trip

Road tripping Vancouver and the Canadian Rockies and can’t decide between vibrant nightlife and breathtaking views? Moon has you covered. Here’s the best of each region, from dynamic cities to world-class national parks. Take in historical sites, astounding mountains, and Western Canada’s best food. Whatever your mood, start here to find adventure on the road.

The rainforest meets the city in Vancouver, where massive Stanley Park and forests of glass-and-steel skyscrapers populate the downtown peninsula. The North Shore Mountains overlook the city skyline, while the sea hugs the city, with sandy beaches just steps from urban hotels. Yet this outdoor-oriented metropolis has plenty of culture as well, reflecting its First Nations heritage (the totem poles at the Museum of Anthropology are a must-see) and its contemporary Pacific Rim society. Granville Island, Gastown, and Kitsilano draw food-lovers to their locally focused restaurants, while the suburb of Richmond has some of the best Chinese food outside China. With its well-connected international airport and location just north of the U.S. border, 145 miles (230 kilometers) from Seattle, Vancouver is a convenient starting point for trips along the British Columbia coast and east to the Canadian Rockies.

Victoria and Vancouver Island

Across the Strait of Georgia at the southern tip of Vancouver Island, British Columbia’s waterfront capital city of Victoria retains elements of its British heritage—visiting the world-class Butchart Gardens and taking afternoon tea at the grand Fairmont Empress are still beloved traditions for visitors—even as this increasingly cosmopolitan community booms with new restaurants and cocktail bars. Elsewhere on the island, you can snorkel with seals, take a bear-watching tour, or watch the waves crash along the Pacific coast.

Whistler and the Sea-to-Sky Highway

One of western Canada’s most spectacular short drives, the Sea-to-Sky Highway connects Vancouver to the resort town of Whistler. Known for winter sports, Whistler has plenty to do in warmer weather, too, from riding the gondolas into the mountains, to hiking, cycling, and canoeing, to exploring the region’s aboriginal heritage.

Kamloops to the B.C. Rockies

As you drive east from Vancouver and cross the Coast Mountains, you leave behind the green coastal rainforest and wind through the desert-like hills of British Columbia’s interior. Here, the sunny city of Kamloops makes a convenient stopover point midway between Vancouver and the Rockies, with several small museums and an emerging wine industry. Continue east on the Trans-Canada Highway to a trio of national parks, Mount Revelstoke, Glacier, and Yoho, where you can hike, paddle the glacier-fed lakes, or enjoy the mountain scenery. Base yourself in towns like Revelstoke or Golden (only Yoho National Park has accommodations) and enjoy their cafés, restaurants, and comfortable lodgings.

Banff and Lake Louise

Banff National Park is a highlight of any Canadian Rockies road trip, with dramatic mountain peaks and natural hot springs, the sparkling blue Lake Louise, and more than 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) of hiking paths. Within the boundaries of Canada’s first national park, the town of Banff bustles with restaurants, museums, and shops, and though its sidewalks can feel as jammed as New York City’s during the busy summer season, there’s always plenty of space out on the trails.

The Icefields Parkway between Lake Louise and Jasper is one of Canada’s great drives, where you can stop at the Columbia Icefield to walk on a glacier or hike among the glacier-capped peaks. Without Banff’s crowds, Jasper National Park is equally beautiful, and as the largest park in the Canadian Rockies, there’s ample room to explore its lakes, canyons, and mountains.

The Kootenays

The Kootenays region extends across southeastern British Columbia, between the Rocky Mountains and the Okanagan Valley. Here, you can explore the diverse landscape of Kootenay National Park, follow the Hot Springs Highway to several natural mineral pools, hang out in funky mountain towns like Fernie and Nelson, or learn more about the First Nations who’ve lived in the area for more than 10,000 years. Delve into the history of other ethnic communities, too, including the Japanese Canadians who were sent to internment camps across B.C. during World War II, and the Russian pacifists known as the Doukhobors who settled here in the early 20th century.

The Okanagan

More than 200 wineries hug the lakeshores and rocky hills of the sunny Okanagan Valley in central B.C., often called the “Napa of the North.” This agricultural region stretches from Osoyoos, in the desert-like lands near the U.S. border, north to Kelowna, the area’s largest city. If you love wine, or enjoy being outdoors along some of Canada’s warmest lakes, plan to stop in the Okanagan as you drive between Vancouver and the Rocky Mountains.

Canada’s fourth-largest city has the closest airport to the Canadian Rockies, so you can start or end your Rocky Mountain travels here. Known for the annual Calgary Stampede, Calgary has the excellent Glenbow Museum of western Canadian history, art, and culture; Heritage Park Historical Village, the country’s largest living history village; and a new National Music Centre. The city’s restaurants regularly rank among the country’s top dining spots. A short drive from Calgary, the Canadian Badlands has a completely different geological profile, with its unusual hoodoo rock formations and deep rocky canyons.

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Top 10 trips to Canada

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A patchwork of provinces with their own stories to discover, planning a trip to Canada can be a little overwhelming if you don’t know where to start. Do you want to hike around old-growth forests and azure lakes in the Canadian Rockies? Experience the maritime culture of the Atlantic provinces? Or venture into the stark landscapes of the Arctic?

Whichever part of the country you choose to explore, we can create a Canada trip entirely around your passions. You might like a private guide to show you the historic sights and culinary delights of cities like Vancouver, Montréal, and Toronto. Or perhaps you’d prefer to spend time in the great outdoors, staying on a working ranch, cruising the iceberg-strewn and whale-populated Arctic waters of the Northwest Passage, or heading out on a 4x4 tour in Whistler to spot grizzly and black bears.

Below, we’ve collated a selection of our specialists’ top Canada tour ideas. With these to inspire you, we can design a trip that helps you see the country your way.

1. Cities of eastern Canada

2. Parks & prairies of Saskatchewan

3. Discovering the Canadian Rockies

4. searching for wildlife in western canada, 5. polar-bear spotting in northern manitoba, 6. cruising the northwest passage, 7. getting to know newfoundland.

8. Coastal Nova Scotia & New Brunswick

9. A quest around Québec

10. on the road in ontario.

From the cobbled streets of Québec to Toronto’s glittering skyline, this route takes you to a quartet of culturally rich cities in the east of Canada. Whether you want to focus on their food, history, art, or gardens, we can help you discover each one in your own way.

Where the trip could take you:

You’ll fly into the multicultural metropolis of Toronto, then make your way east to Québec City via Canada’s capital, Ottawa. Finally, you’ll head back down to lively Montréal . You can spend as much time as you like in each city, journeying between them on trains that take you past dense evergreen forests and snow-capped mountains.

Experiences you can have:

You could take a private walking tour of Old Montréal’s narrow streets, where you’ll learn about the city’s history as you take in the intricate Gothic Revival architecture of Notre-Dame Basilica and hear street musicians play in Place Jacques-Cartier square. Meanwhile, in Ottawa, you could drift along the Ottawa River or the Rideau Canal on a boat to see the city’s sights from the water. And in Québec City, you can explore the local culinary scene on a food tour.

This may be a city trip, but that doesn’t mean you won’t have the chance to experience Canada’s natural beauty too. We can arrange a guided tour of the thunderous Niagara Falls from Toronto — including a cruise to the mist-engulfed, frothing foot of the falls in the summer — followed by a tasting at one of the region’s renowned wineries.

2. The parks & prairies of Saskatchewan

Authentic cowboy ranches, welcoming cities rich in history, and bison-dotted grasslands that ripple under skies so vast and dark they seem specially crafted for stargazing. The landlocked province of Saskatchewan  might not be the first place people consider when planning a trip to Canada, but it has plenty to offer — especially on a second-time visit to the country.

After flying into Calgary, you’ll spend several days exploring the prairies of Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park and Grasslands National Park. You can balance out your time in the great outdoors with stays in cities like Moose Jaw, Regina , and Saskatoon. For a look at prehistoric Canada, we recommend also including a visit to the fossil beds and lunar-like landscape of Drumheller.

Saskatchewan’s parks provide great opportunities for wildlife spotting, whether it’s moose in the spruce forests of Cypress Hills or bison on the sprawling Badlands of Grasslands. And on clear nights, the wide skies and lack of light pollution make it easy to spot the myriad constellations twinkling above you.

To really get a feel for life on the prairie, we can arrange for you to spend time on a working cattle ranch  on Lake Diefenbaker. Here, you could ride horses over the grasslands, swim in the lake, learn traditional cowboy skills, or toast marshmallows over a campfire.

It’s not all about the countryside, though. Beneath the streets of Moose Jaw, you can take a guided tour of the network of tunnels used for rum-running during the American Prohibition. Meanwhile, at the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Heritage Centre in Regina, you can find out more about the Canadian “Mounties”.

With their dense forests, colossal ice fields, and startingly turquoise lakes, Canada’s Rocky Mountains  are a beacon for those who want to experience the country’s wilderness. Whether you’d like to explore their slopes on foot, by boat, or from the air, we can arrange for you to discover both the highlights of the Rockies and their lesser-known spots with local experts by your side.

A tour of the Canadian Rockies can include four different national parks, from wildflower-filled Waterton Lakes to the sheer, snow-capped peaks of Banff. You’ll also visit outdoorsy mountain cities like Fernie , Nelson, and Revelstoke, which combine small-town charm with a big sense of adventure.

Hiking is a major draw of the Canadian Rockies, and we can recommend some of the best routes to suit you. That might mean a privately guided hike of the crevasses and ice caves of the Athabasca Glacier, or keeping an eye out for elk, moose, and deer on the trails in Elk Valley. Afterwards, we suggest a visit to one of the area’s many hot springs to soothe your muscles.

You can also journey through the region on the water, whether that’s a leisurely cruise on Lake Minnewanka or white-water rafting down the Kootenay River. There’s even the option to combine your trip with an Alaskan cruise, where you’ll have the chance to spot humpback whales in Glacier Bay National Park.

To see the Rocky Mountains from a different perspective, we can arrange for you to take a helicopter tour  around the pyramidal peak of Mount Assiniboine and the Gloria Glacier that tumbles off it.

From whales breaching the ocean’s surface and eagles circling overhead to bears prowling through the forest  and along the shoreline, there are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife on a trip to western Canada. Throughout your journey, we’ll pair you with expert guides to give you the best chance of seeing the country’s most celebrated animals up close.

Following your flight into Vancouver , take a couple of days to explore this dynamic city, then head to the small town of Campbell River. From here, you journey east into the wilderness of Egmont on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast and mountainous Whistler. You’ll also spend time in Wells Gray Provincial Park and Jasper National Park, before ending your trip in the Rockies.

During your stay in Campbell River, you can join a whale-watching cruise for a chance to see orcas and humpbacks surface alongside your boat. You might also spot porpoises and dolphins frolicking in the water and bald eagles soaring above you.

For those who prefer to keep their feet on dry land, Wells Gray Provincial Park  has an extensive network of hiking trails, from which you might spy bears, moose, deer, and elk.

If a bear encounter is top of your list, we can arrange a private 4x4 tour in Whistler. Here, your guide will drive you through the backcountry in search of grizzlies and black bears. And in Jasper , you can take a wildlife tour with an expert Métis guide. They’ll tell you about the history of Métis people in the national park while you look out for bears, mountain sheep, moose, and wolves.

A furry white polar bear lumbers up to your tundra vehicle, sniffing at the wheels before peering through the windows at you, his breath fogging the glass. In the distance, a pair swipe at each other in the snow with their huge paws. If you’re planning a trip to Canada specifically to see polar bears , Manitoba is the place to go.

You’ll fly into Winnipeg and spend a day or two exploring the city, then catch a charter flight up to Churchill in northern Manitoba . Nicknamed “the polar bear capital of the world”, this is where you’ll spend most of your time, before returning to Winnipeg for your onwards travels.

Hundreds of polar bears migrate to Churchill  every year, and one of the best ways to get a close-up look at them is on a tundra vehicle tour. These will safely transport you across the rough terrain while your expert guide tells you all about the wildlife you spot. In addition to polar bears, you might spy Arctic foxes, hares, and caribou. You can also take evening tours to see the bears — and, if you’re lucky, on clear nights the northern lights  might be dancing above you too.

Polar bears may be Churchill’s main draw, but they aren’t the only animals you could come across. In the summer, you can head out on a kayak or Zodiac boat to see playful beluga whales. We can also arrange for you to take a dog-sledding expedition through the snow with your own pack of huskies.

This route enables you to sail through the Arctic waters of Canada’s Northwest Passage, which joins the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to learn about Inuit culture and the history of the region, spot narwhals and beluga whales from the deck, and explore the remote tundra on foot.

After flying into Toronto , you’ll take a charter flight to Greenland and board your ship. As you cruise along fjords and past icebergs, you’ll stop at a series of locations to explore the landscape on foot. These include Sisimiut, Greenland’s second-largest city, the Arctic community of Mittimatalik, and Devon Island — the world’s largest uninhabited island.

In Greenland, you can explore the Ilulissat Icefjord UNESCO World Heritage Site by Zodiac boat. Here, you’ll sail past colossal icebergs calved from the glacier at its base.

There may also be the option to hike across the country’s tundra with an Inuit expedition team, who’ll teach you about local plants and wildlife as you go. You can learn more about Inuit culture by attending a cultural performance put on by a local theater group, and trying your hand at traditional games.

Whether on board your cruise ship or smaller skiffs, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot marine life as you journey through ice-strewn straits and fjords. That includes minke, beluga, and humpback whales, as well as narwhals, sea birds, and even polar bears. Throughout your voyage, you’ll also have the chance to hear stories about historical expeditions to open up the Northwest Passage.

The windswept and wave-splashed island of Newfoundland sits off Canada’s east coast, in the iceberg-prone waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Besides being a prime location for watching these eerie glacial chunks drift past, Newfoundland boasts welcoming cities, moose-filled national parks, and seas teeming with marine mammals.

Your stay in Newfoundland can take you all across the island, from the character-full capital, St. John’s (Canada’s easternmost city), to the historic fishing villages of Trinity Bay and Twillingate. You’ll also spend several days exploring the exposed cliffs and ribbon-like fjords of Gros Morne National Park.

During your time in Gros Morne , we suggest lacing up your hiking boots and following the trails through dense boreal forests and across exposed stretches of ocean crust and the Earth’s mantle at the Tablelands. Keep your eyes open for moose as you go — the park has one of the highest densities of these animals in the world.

If you have an interest in history, we recommend a visit to L’Anse aux Meadows. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the only authenticated Viking settlement in North America, and gives you a glimpse into what life was like here 1,000 years ago.

To really get away from it all on your trip to Canada, we can arrange for you to stay in a restored lighthouse on Quirpon Island. Here, you’ll spend your time watching out for orcas, humpback, and minke whales, as well as icebergs floating past your doorstep. You can also join a boat tour from Trinity Bay or Twillingate for an even closer look.

8. Coastal trip in Nova Scotia & New Brunswick

With fishing towns full of brightly painted houses and rocky coastlines lashed by powerful tides, Canada’s Atlantic provinces are very much shaped by the sea. Whether you want to photograph lonely lighthouses or tuck into freshly caught lobster, we can show you all the best sides of this salt-splashed region.

Beginning and ending in Halifax, this self-drive Canada trip follows Nova Scotia’s “lighthouse route”, giving you the chance to explore historic towns like Lunenburg, as well as the Cabot Trail through the highlands of Cape Breton Island. Then, in New Brunswick, you can explore the biodiverse Bay of Fundy and riverside Fredericton. You also have the option to visit Prince Edward Island .

To find out more about New Brunswick ’s maritime heritage, you could join a lobster cruise in Shediac or take a guided tour of the lighthouses on Campobello Island. This is also home to Franklin D. Roosevelt’s summer residence, where you can sample ginger cookies made to Eleanor’s own recipe. Meanwhile, in the Bay of Fundy, you’re able to kayak on the highest tides in the world and then walk on the ocean floor when the tide is low.

Over in Nova Scotia , we could arrange for you to have a private tour and whisky tasting at Glenora, the oldest single malt distillery in North America. For an outdoor adventure, Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers forested hiking trails and sandy beaches, or you can go on a whale-watching tour from Ingonish to spy pilot, fin, minke, and humpback whales.

The province of Québec  combines cities that have a tangible European cultural heritage with nature on an epic scale. On this trip, we can help you discover its history and gastronomy, as well as explore its sheer mountains, boreal forests, and rivers visited by a multitude of whales.

We suggest first spending a few days in Montréal before heading to the forested Mauricie region or Lac Saint Jean. You’ll then follow the path of the St. Lawrence River, stopping at Tadoussac and journeying through the Charlevoix  region on your way to Québec City. There’s also the option to spend a couple of days in the Eastern Townships before your international flight home.

You can get to know Québec City  on a private walking tour of its labyrinthine lanes with an expert local guide who’ll tell you stories of its history and the people who’ve lived here through the centuries. To find out more about the region’s culinary scene, we can arrange for you to attend a tasting of wines and spirits made with local honey in Baie St-Paul.

If you’d like to see some wildlife on your trip to Québec, we recommend searching for moose on the hiking trails of Gaspésie National Park. Its leafy slopes are home to one of the largest populations of these ungainly animals in North America. You can also join a whale watching tour in Tadoussac for a chance to spot beluga, humpback, and — if you’re very lucky — blue whales.

From the multicultural hub of Toronto to the roar of Niagara Falls, there’s no shortage of big-name sights in Ontario . And thanks to our specialists’ in-depth knowledge, we can plan a trip here that also includes lesser-known attractions, whether that’s learning about Canada’s First Nations heritage or listening out for wolf howls in Algonquin Provincial Park.

You’ll fly into Toronto and spend a couple of days here before heading south to Niagara-on-the-Lake . Your trip to Ontario can also include time in Algonquin and Killarney Provincial Parks, a stay on Manitoulin Island , and a visit to the lakeside town of Tobermory.

While you’re in Toronto, we recommend heading to the top of the CN Tower for 360-degree views of the city. And in Tobermory, you can see things from a different perspective with a glass-bottomed boat ride in Fatom Five National Marine Park to peer down at the ghostly relics of 22 shipwrecks as your guide explains how they ended up in their watery graves.

We can also arrange for you to go on a canoe tour in Manitoulin Island with a First Nations guide, who’ll tell you about the history and culture of the Ojibwe people as you explore.

Meanwhile, in Muskoka, you could attend a wine tasting at a cranberry farm and learn how this local delicacy is made. And, if visiting Niagara Falls is on your wish list, we can set you up with a private guide who’ll take you to the best spots to see them from.

Further reading

• 5 active winter experiences in Canada
• Top 10 hidden highlights of Canada
• Self-drive vacations in Canada
• Highlights of Vancouver Island
• Polar bear watching in Canada

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Road trips in Western Canada

Western conquest.

Explore the must-sees of Western Canada. The natural beauty of Vancouver Island, the waterfalls of Wells Gray Park and the awe-inspiring peaks of the Rockies will blow your mind!

The West by RV

From nights under the stars in Rocky Mountain campsites to the beauty of Vancouver Island, come and enjoy a unique experience in the heart of Canadian nature.

West with the family

Embark on unforgettable family adventures from Vancouver to the authentic charm of historic Hat Creek Village. Finish your road trip in style in the heart of the majestic Rockies.

Dream destinations

Discover breathtaking landscapes and majestic mountains in unspoilt wilderness. Each day offers a new dream destination for an unforgettable experience.

From glaciers to geysers

From glaciers to geysers, dense forests to endless meadows, this road trip crosses borders, soaking up the majestic grandeur of the Rockies from country to country.

Once in the West

Explore Western Canada from Calgary to the majestic Rockies, from Wells Gray to Vancouver, ending at legendary Lake Louise! An epic journey through the heart of Alberta and British Columbia.

Back-country roads

Travel the scenic backcountry roads from the comfort of your motorhome. At every turn, the diverse landscapes of the Rockies will leave you in awe!

Vancouver Island

Explore Vancouver Island, from the charming city of Victoria to the wild beaches of Pacific Rim. You won't remain indifferent to the authenticity of Telegraph Cove and the beauty of Quadra Island.

Wild refinement

Between national parks, towns and unexpected encounters, this mountain epic promises moments of pure emotion and wild adventure.

From the Rockies to Yellowstone

From the majestic Rockies to the mythical Yellowstone Park, nature reveals a show without borders, with exceptional landscapes and captivating natural diversity!

The best Western Canada tour

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The best time to go on a Canadian Rockies road trip or Eastern Canada adventure is during the summer months, between mid-June and mid-October .

The high touristic season is between mid-July and mid-August . There are a lot more travelers and the prices are higher.

From mid-September to mid-October , the trees are adorned with red, orange and yellow to offer quite a spectacle. You can sometimes still get nice temperatures. We call it the Indian Summer.

Whatever option suits your desire, make sure to check out our section " When to visit Canada ? " before booking your travel dates.

Driving in Canada

Before leaving for a road trip aboard your Canada car rental, it is best to be aware of the particularities of the Canadian highway code. We have gathered for you the most important information on our " Driving in Canada " page.

When should I book my Canada tour ?

The best time to book your Quebec road trip or Western Canada tour is to book at least 6 months in advance to ensure availability, especially if you plan to travel in July or August.

Indeed, if you book your Canada road trip at the last minute, you risk limited availability , not to mention that you can expect the most beautiful places to be full.

Finally, the earlier you book, the more money you will save . There is no good reason to wait before booking your trip.

Consult our section " When to book my trip? " to know more.

What is the Authentik roadbook ?

The Authentik roadbook is a fully personalized Canada travel guide tailored to your individual Canada tour . Your Authentik advisor will start preparing your roadbook as soon as you book your trip.

The roadbook can be delivered to your home prior to your departure or given to you upon your arrival in Canada.

See it as your  personal assistant that will help you discover the most beautiful places in the country so that you don't miss a thing on your trip with us.

See our " Roadbook " section for more information.

Which destination to choose between Eastern and Western Canada ?

Are you planning a Canada self-drive holiday  and hesitating between Eastern Canada and its warmhearted Quebec or a Canadian Rockies itinerary  ?

Consult our " East vs West" section to help you see more clearly.

Should I choose a Canada tour by RV or by car ?

You are wondering if you should explore our great outdoors aboard a Canada RV rental or a  car  ?

Both types of travel have their pros and cons.

And contrary to popular belief, it is not always true that an RV trip costs less.

Consult our section " Car or RV " to know more.

See all FAQs on road trips in Canada

Check out our comprehensive road trip FAQs or our practical information FAQs on traveling to Canada in general.