road trip from seattle to banff national park

From Seattle To Banff, Canada’s Most Beautiful Road Trip

From Seattle to Banff is a great way to see Canada’s stunning Rocky Mountains in all its glory. In this article we give the reader 4 routes that will take travelers through Washington state, British Columbia, and Alberta.

So fill up the gas tank, grab some snacks, and prepare for the most epic road trip in 2022!

Table of Contents

Quick Overview of Banff National Park

Have you ever heard of Banff National Park? Located in Alberta, Canada, this gorgeous piece of land was the first ever National Park in the country, established back in 1885. The Park spans 6,641 square kilometres and encompasses some of the most spectacular mountain scenery that the Canadian Rocky Mountains have to offer.

Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the Park every year to experience hiking, biking, rafting, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, horseback riding, golfing, ziplining , climbing, camping, skiing and snowboarding. The charming town of Banff, and the uniquely-colored, glacier fed Lake Louise are fantastic destinations for those looking for a slightly tamer travel experience that includes shopping, short easy walks, historic sites to visit, and great culinary options with amazing views.

Of course, the famous Banff Hot Springs , Banff Gondola and nearby Columbia Icefields Skywalk offer up unique opportunities to experience the area in a different way. Wildlife abounds throughout the area, and many tourists have the chance to view bears, elk, deer, moose and other animals, not to mention the plethora of bird life.

There is so much to see and do within the Park that it would be easy to spend a week or more just exploring, no matter which season you choose to travel in, but there are several things to consider as you plan your travels into Canada and Banff National Park.

Tips Before You Go

Although Banff offers excellent travel opportunities through the year, highways to this area always pass through mountain ranges and passes, and winter road conditions can sometimes close highways or slow traffic significantly. There are areas where cell service may not be available, and towns can be few and far between. It is best to prepare well for any winter highway travel by carrying extra food, water, warm clothes, a blanket and a flashlight. Winter tires are required by law to travel through the province of British Columbia between October and May.

A National Park pass is required to spend any time in any of Canada’s National Parks, and can be purchased in person at one of the Park gates. If you are spending more than seven days in the Park, you may want to consider purchasing a year pass, as it will be less expensive. Rates change on a yearly basis, and you can check daily and yearly fees here.

You may want to consider reserving your accommodations before travelling, as during busy summer and winter months hotels can easily sell out. Summer months also provide opportunities for camping, which can be booked online in advance.

If you are a U.S. citizen, you will require a valid passport to cross the border into Canada. It is always a good idea to check travel advisories, restrictions and border rules, and of course, that your vehicle is in roadworthy shape, before heading out for your trip.

4 Epic Driving Routes from Seattle to Banff

There are four versions of driving routes that can be taken, dependent on how much time you want to spend on the road, or what else you would like to see. If you are determined, you could drive the entire trip in one long day, but there is so much to see and do along the routes that we recommend that you take the time to enjoy every mile.

Driving Route One from Seattle to Banff

Total drive time: 10 hours 30 minutes (with no stops)

No matter where you are departing from in the Seattle area, you will need to get onto the I-5 heading north. You will be following directions to Sumas, where you will be crossing the border into the province of British Columbia. Follow the I-5 for approximately 88 miles to Bellingham, where you will take Exit 255 for WA-542 E/Sunset Dr toward Mt Baker. From here you continue, following the signs for Customs and Immigration until you come to the border crossing.

Welcome to Canada! This highway turns into BC-11, which you will follow for a short jog of 2 miles before turning right onto Highway 1 – the Trans Canada Highway towards Hope. Remember that distance signs and posted speed limits are now in kilometers, rather than miles.

Everyone Loves a Waterfall

Our first recommended stop will be at Bridal Veil Falls , approximately a 35-minute drive down the road. Just east of Chilliwack, this provincial park only covers 32 hectares, but is home to a spectacular waterfall that is a definite must see if you are in the area. The water falls 60 meters over the smooth rock face, creating a veil effect which has provided the name. The walk to the falls is only about 15 minutes, so no real workout required to enjoy this beautiful natural site.

Hope, BC – A City of Opportunity

Once you have stretched your legs and taken some pics, your next stop may be Hope, located just 25 minutes farther down Highway 1. The town of Hope is a good place to get out to stretch your legs as well, with its walking tour of the 80-plus wood carved structures throughout the town. You can get your Chainsaw Carvings walking tour brochure from the Visitor’s Center.

The Coquihalla Highway

From Hope, you will be departing on BC-3 E, commonly known as the Coquihalla Highway, looking for the exit for BC-5 N after approximately 4 miles. At the summit of this highway, the road reaches elevations of 1,224 m (4081 ft). This section of highway winds through the Cascade Mountains, following the route of the historic Kettle Valley Railway. Keep your eyes out for small locomotive-shaped signs marking the nearby locations of the old Kettle Valley Railway Stations. If you would like another chance at hiking, stop and check out the Othello Tunnels . This beautiful 2 mile walk leads you through old train tunnels and over bridges steeped in history. How the original engineers over 100 years ago built this railway, given the sheer rock cliffs, racing river, and remote access to the area, is seriously impressive.

Two Steppin’ into Merritt, BC

The next major town along the route is Merritt, which is a drive of about an hour and fifteen minutes. Merritt is famous for its Mountain Music Fest and the town shows its love of music with the interesting Country Legend Murals, located throughout the town; the Walk of Stars, which has more than 100 stars of musicians who have performed at the Fest; and the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame , featuring iconic Canadian country music artists. Stop by the Ballie House for more information on where to see the murals and stars, as is not only a historic site but also the Visitors Information center.

Spend the Night in Kamloops

Continuing on your journey, the Coquihalla Highway takes you to the city of Kamloops, another hour up the road. If you have made a lot of stops along the way, this may be the place to spend the night. Kamloops also offers up some fun activities and attractions, depending on which season you are travelling. You can check out the British Columbia Wildlife Park , the Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park , or take a ride on the Kamloops Heritage Railway , amongst other activities.

Revelstoke – Beautiful Scenery

From Kamloops to the next major stop of the city of Revelstoke, you will be driving for approximately two and a half hours if you choose not to stop anywhere else, but of course there are things to do and see along the way. The highway will wind its way through Salmon Arm, where you can stop and visit the R.J. Haney Heritage Village and Museum , if you like, or simply continue through the lovely scenery towards Three Valley Gap . There is a hotel here, but if you don’t have time to stop for the night, the historic buildings and exhibits in the Historic Ghost Town provide for much entertainment.

Of course, Revelstoke is the main place to stay in the region, with plenty of hotels, campgrounds, resorts, shops and restaurants to enjoy. If you have the time during summer or fall months, venture up the gondola at Revelstoke Mountain Resort for breathtaking views and hiking opportunities, along with a great breakfast or lunch spot! Otherwise, strap on a pair of skis or a snowboard and explore their runs during the winter months.

Another fun activity for summer months in the Revelstoke area is to ride the Pipe Mountain Coaster , where you can take a thrilling ride on a self controlled 1.4-km coaster that can propel you up to 42-kms an hour!

Glacier National Park

From Revelstoke you will travel into Glacier National Park, where there are many pull offs and signs indicating there is something interesting to stop and see. The Giant Cedar’s Boardwalk Trail is found approximately 20 minutes outside of the city and is a short half kilometer boardwalk that will get you out amongst the cedars that can be hundreds of years old. Your next stop should be at Canyon Hot Springs Resort where you can soak your worries away in the mineral springs.

Quick Stopping Points

A bit farther down the highway you will come across the Hemlock Grove Boardwalk Trail . This is another very short walk that will take you through this amazing forest.

A fantastic stop along this highway is the Roger’s Pass Discovery Centre , which, of course, provides you with all the information you would like about the discovery of the Pass and the history of the area. With a theatre and exhibits, this is a must do along this highway. The next notable stop is at Bear Creek Falls . Less than a mile long, this easily accessible trail takes you to a beautiful waterfall.

Golden Rules, Indeed

From here it is only about a 45-minute drive to the town of Golden . It is fun to stop for a bit to see some of the sites here, such as the Kicking Horse River Pedestrian Bridge, which, at 151 feet across, is the longest freestanding timber frame bridge in Canada. The Golden Museum is also worth some time to learn about the fantastic history of the town and the area.

From Golden, you return to travel on Highway 1 towards Lake Louise and Banff National Park.

NOTE to Travellers: Highway 1 will be closed to traffic between Golden and Field from September 26, 2022, until 6 a.m. on December 1, 2022. Please follow alternate route signs during this time, and allow for up to an hour and a half of extra drive time.

Fantastic Finds in Field

By the time you reach Field, you will be almost at the Alberta border, and only a 25-minute drive away from the famous Lake Louise. There are several natural sites to see in the Field area , and plenty of activities to keep you busy for a day or two if you so choose. Check out the Natural Bridge, Emerald Lake, the skiing opportunities, hiking trails, or activities like ice climbing or dog sledding.

The scenery in these parts is spectacular, and you will find driving along the highway during any season to be an amazing journey. Take the time to pull off in the rest stops to take pictures and smell the fresh air, and enjoy each place as you travel through.

Marvel at Lake Louise

You can’t drive by Lake Louise without stopping, so you might as well plan to spend at least part of a day up at the famous turquoise coloured lake. During the summer there are plenty of hiking opportunities, as well as kayaking and canoeing on the Lake itself; during the winter you can ice skate, hike, snowshoe and cross country ski. The nearby ski hill offers up plenty of chances to enjoy the downhill side of things as well. Check out the historic Chateau for an overnight stay or a meal.

The journey on the Trans-Canada Highway from Lake Louise to the town of Banff is only 45 minutes, but the journey through the incredible Rocky Mountain vistas will make you wish it was much longer. The charming town of Banff is chock full of hotels, restaurants and sites, and in the area you will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking.

Driving Route Two from Seattle to Banff

Total Drive Time: 12 hours 30 minutes (no stops)

Departing from Seattle, you will want to head east on I-90 E/Bellevue/Spokane. Look out for exit 85 to travel onto WA-970 N toward Wenatchee. From there, turn left onto WA-970, keeping right to stay on 970 for another 10 miles. From here you will be continuing on to US-97 N. This route takes you towards Wenatchee – but you will have to exit onto US-2. There are plenty of places to stop to stretch your legs, including the Blewett Townsite , which is a historical site with an information sign right off the highway.

Be aware that you will have to take the exchange US-2 E/US-97 N ramp to Okanogan/Spokane in Sunnyslope, before continuing your drive on US-97. Dependent on the time of year, you may find orchards and fruit stands to visit alongside the highway north. This route takes you through a variety of landscapes and provides many places to pull over to take pictures or stretch your legs. The highway is flanked by natural areas and small towns, and if you don’t mind taking slight detours you can view some pretty cool things – such as Chelan Falls , just 45 minutes outside of Sunnyslope. There are several trails that will lead you through the gorge to spectacular scenery and views.

Winding your way through the mountains towards the Canadian border, you may find that you want to stop in every small charming town, each with their own history and beauty.

After passing through the Canadian border, the first major place that you will come across will be Osoyoos . One of the most unique things about this area of British Columbia is that it is a desert! The town provides the perfect place to learn about the ecology of the region at the Desert Center . This 67-acre interpretive nature center provides information about the unique desert ecology and conservation of endangered ecosystems.

Seeing Spots in the Summer

Also in the area is one of the most unique features in the country – Spotted Lake – but this incredible lake is best viewed during the summer months. Due to the heat of the summer, much of the water in the lake evaporates, leaving large concentrations of various minerals that form the spots visible in the lake. Throughout the summer, the spots shift in size and colour as the minerals within each change with further evaporation. You can see colours ranging from blue to green to yellow dependant on the mineral makeup in the water that’s left. Note to travellers: you can not swim in this lake at any time of year.

The Wine Country

This is also the beginning of wine country in the province, so if you are a wine lover, you will find a variety of vineyards and tasting rooms all along the highway from here to Kelowna and beyond. It is impossible to list every vineyard, activity, historic site and orchard in the Okanagan, but we suggest that you plan to spend several days (if you can) exploring this region.

From Osoyoos, you will head north to Penticton on Highway 97, where Okanagan Lake begins. This journey will only take an hour if you don’t stop anywhere. Penticton is beginning of a condensed area with plenty of small towns, orchards, vineyards, and activities. During the summer, fruit stands are found all along the highway between Penticton and the larger city of Kelowna, just another 45 minute drive down Highway 97.

A Keystone Location

Kelowna is a fantastic place to make as a base at any time of year if you have the time to explore the region before heading on to Banff. The mild weather here has created a year round destination for all types of travellers. This vibrant city is full of hotels, restaurants, shops, boat rental agencies and lots of distilleries and places to drink wine. There is plenty of hiking and fishing, and during the winter you can enjoy downhill activities at the nearby Big White Ski Resort.

While we love the Kelowna area, the journey is onwards to Banff National Park, and so you must continue to travel alongside the beautiful Okanagan Lake towards the town of Vernon on Highway 97. Continuing to drive north, you will merge onto Vernon-Sicamous Hwy/BC-97A N, following that highway until you reach Sicamous , the houseboat capital of Canada, which is 218 kilometers away. At Sicamous, you will be turning right to join the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1). This is the junction where you would meet up with the description from Driving Route One, as Sicamous is located between Salmon Arm and Three Valley Gap. You will have a four to five hour drive from Sicamous to Banff, if you make no stops along the way.

Driving Route Three from Seattle to Banff

Total Drive Time: 13 hours (no stops)

From the city of Seattle, you will need to be able to travel east out of the city on the I-90 to Bellevue/Spokane. It seems strange to be travelling southeast to go north, but this highway is a fast alternative to the side highways which may take you a lot longer to get to your destination. Even though this is a major highway, you are surrounded by plenty of green spaces and it is beautiful scenery to be passing through on your way to Canada.

After you merge onto I-90, you will travel 297 miles and through Spokane before you need to turn off anywhere, which will be shortly after you enter Idaho. Look for Exit 2 to Pleasant View Road, where you will want to turn left onto N Pleasant View Rd/Pleasant Vw Rd, following that for 2.5 miles. You will have to go through a traffic circle (take the second exit) and continue on Pleasant View Road for another half a mile before you come across ID-53 E/W Hwy 53. You will follow this for just over 7 miles before turning right onto ID-41 S/ID-53 E.

In less than a half a mile, you will have to turn left onto ID-53 E, following that for 4.3 miles before merging to the left onto US-95 N. Driving on, you will pass by NAPA Auto Parts – BONNERS FERRY ID (on the right in 67.1 mi) before turning right onto Customs Lp/Ferry Ave. From here, turn left at the 1st cross street onto Customs Lp/Immigration St and continue to follow Customs Lp. You will turn right onto US-95 to enter the province of British Columbia, in Canada.

Spectacular Seasonal Crossing

After you enter B.C., US-95 N turns slightly right and becomes BC-95 N. Approximately an hour down the road, you will come across the small city of Cranbrook . In the autumn months, this town is home to, and surrounded by, gorgeous fall colours as the golden larches mature. In the winter months, Cranbrook is famous for its mild climate and the eight world-class ski resorts within driving distance, not to mention the more than 50 kilometers of snowmobile trails in the area. Of course, Cranbrook is also a really cool little historic town, with plenty of charm and great restaurants to enjoy.

This is a quick trip through British Columbia, because your destination along this route is the province of Alberta. BC-95 N will shortly turn into BC-3 E, and will enter Alberta in approximately 85 miles, changing into AB-3 E. The next place that you will come across is the junction town of Elko. Located at the junction of two major scenic highways (Highway 93 and Crowsnest Highway 3), the town sits in the valley of the gorgeous surrounding mountains. Estimate a 45 minute drive between Cranbrook and Elko.

This highway is commonly known as the Crowsnest Highway, and it will provide you with spectacular views of the southern Rocky Mountains, and provide incredible viewpoints for natural wonders and historic sites. There are many places to visit along this route, but opening days and times of most places will depend on the time of year that you are travelling. You will want to check road conditions before travelling this highway during the winter months.

Discover Fernie

From Elko, your next major stop would be the town of Fernie , located 25 minutes north on Highway 3. Everything in this area is within a short drive, but if you are stopping at multiple places along Crowsnest Pass, you may want to consider planning for a day in this area. Fernie is famous for its skiing and powder conditions during the winter, but is also a fantastic summer destination. The stunning scenery that surrounds the town makes it a perfect place to hang out for a couple of days and experience the outdoor activities. You can also take a self-guided walking tour of the town to see the historic side.

If you are a fan of mining or heavy equipment, you will want to stop in Sparwood , another 25 minutes up the road from Fernie. At the very least, you will probably want to take at least a minute or two to stop for a picture with the Terex Titan. This immense truck was built by General Motors of Canada in 1974, and weighs a mind-boggling 350 tonnes, which makes it a great roadside attraction. If you happen to be passing through on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday through July or August, you can also partake of a mine tour here. Pop into the Visitor’s Center to get all the information on a self-guided or guided walking tour of the town as well, as there are many murals and tons of mining equipment located throughout.

Continuing on the Crowsnest Highway

The next recommended visit is to the town of Coleman , located another 35 kilometers down the Crowsnest Highway. The Crowsnest Museum, located in downtown Coleman, is a great place to learn the story of Crowsnest Pass. Their exhibit spaces are set up as rooms, so you can enjoy a Mining Room, a General Store and Blacksmith Shop, a Pioneer Room, a Military/Police Gallery, a Wildlife Room and one more room with changing exhibits. If you don’t want to stop at the museum, the town of Coleman itself is almost living history. Take a self-guided tour of downtown – a National Historic Site lined with miners’ cottages and the original buildings that once housed a hotel, mercantile store, grocers, theatre and boarding house. Since you are in Coleman anyway, stop for a snack at the Cinnamon Bear Café and Bakery, located at 8342 20 Avenue.

Hop back onto Highway 3 to continue driving through the Pass. Just 15 minutes down the road there will be a stop that you should not miss, that being the important Frank Slide Historic Site . On April 29th, 1903, a horrific event happened which devastated the Crowsnest Pass area and killed 90 people. This historic site will give you the opportunity to learn all about the slide, how and why it happened, and the people and mining community that were affected. Spend some time at the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre viewing their new multimedia exhibits before taking a walk through the debris field to appreciate the scale of the boulders that tumbled across the valley.

Hike Turtle Mountain

If you have time, and the energy, to hike Turtle Mountain, you will end up with phenomenal views from the top of the slide area. The hike itself is just over 6 kilometers return, with an elevation gain of 900 meters but will reward you with incredible views of the slide and the surrounding area. The parking for Turtle Mountain is located at the end of a gravel road near 134 Street and 15 Avenue in Blairmore, just 5 minutes down the road from the Frank Slide Historic Site. To get there, turn left onto 129 Street from Highway 3. Take a left at 19th Avenue, then right on 132nd Street; 132nd will turn into 15 Ave. At the T-intersection, turn right. 1 block later, take a right onto the dirt road across from the cul-de-sac. Follow it for about half a kilometre to the parking area at the top of a rise. Yellow markers painted at the base of the cliffs just past the parking area indicate the trailhead.

View to a Waterfall

You are almost out of the Pass itself when you depart the Frank Slide site, and if you are not in too much of a hurry, you can make a short stop at the pretty Lundbreck Falls, which is located 15 minutes further down Highway 3. Located right off the Crowsnest Highway, this waterfall is an easy access for those who would like a beautiful view without much effort, or if you don’t want to take too much time at this stop. This 12-foot drop waterfall is gorgeous at any time of year, but of course as the summer wanes on you may find that it gushes a little less. You can easily view the falls from the observation platform, or if you are a bit more adventurous, head down on the hike to the bottom to get an up close and personal look at the rushing waters.

This is very near the junction of where you will turn north, so if you do stop to enjoy the flowing waters, make sure that you turn right back onto Highway 3, but look immediately for the turn to the left to follow Highway 22/AB-22 (signs for Longview/Black Diamond/Turner Valley). This highway is famously known as the “Cowboy Trail”.

Have Your Camera Ready

Making its way through the beautiful rolling foothills, with views of the Rockies, and farmers fields full of bright canola, tall wheat, or herds of cattle and horses flanking each side of the highway, this lovely route holds parts of Alberta’s past and some of the most interesting and beautiful scenery. Historic sites and ranches can be found along the way, along with some interesting adventure activities, good food and plenty of chances to get out to spend some time taking pictures. Keep your eyes open for wildlife and birdlife, especially at dawn and dusk.

Tuck In for Dinner

You are going to want to stop in Longview, even if you don’t stop anywhere else along this trail, because there is nothing better eaten than some good old Alberta beef. From Lundbreck Falls, it is 113 kilometers, or just over an hour to drive up to Longview. Stop for a meal at the Longview Steakhouse , or if you don’t have time to enjoy the steakhouse, you can stop by the Jerky Shop to pick up some high-quality beef jerky to take on the road with you. There are 32 different types of jerky to be had here, including some unique ones such as Mandarin Ginger, Dill Pickle and Maple Beef.

Continue north on Highway 22, up to the town of Black Diamond, and turn left to follow the highway. Watch out along Main Street here, you can see the restored coal car and big black diamond that represent Black Diamond’s mining history. Even the name of the town is taken from the coal beds in the vicinity. If you didn’t stop to eat in Longview, perhaps Marv’s Classic Soda Shop in Black Diamond is more your style – it is an actual 1950’s classic restaurant. The memorabilia takes you back to the golden age of diners and the classic style burgers, fries and milkshakes will fill you up to keep you continuing along your way.

Even if the diner is not for you, and you are still looking for somewhere yummy to eat, Turner Valley is only 3 kilometers up the road, and is home to the famous Chuckwagon Café , where you can eat breakfast all day long. Along with the claim that they have the best burgers in the province, this eatery has been included in the television show “You Gotta Eat Here” and once you’ve been here you will understand why. The western themed interior is a good accompaniment to the great food.

Historic Trading Post

Following Highway 22 north, you will turn left in Priddis, before arriving to Bragg Creek, which is a short 51 kilometer drive from Turner Valley. In Bragg Creek, we recommend stopping to visit the original Historic Bragg Creek Trading Post . For over 90 years this trading post has been serving the community and the surrounding area. The same family, with the same values, continues to own and run this unique business. Stop in to soak in the history and perhaps purchase some genuine native crafts, moccasins, mukluks, the real Cowichan Knitwear and much more.

Your journey to Banff National Park, or the towns of Banff or Lake Louise, is almost complete! Another hour and a half and you will be immersed in the beauty of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Travel north on Highway 22 to the exit for Highway 1 W, Trans-Canada Highway W, and follow this well travelled road to the gorgeous area that we know as Banff National Park.

Driving Route Four from Seattle to Banff

Okay, here we go again! You will need to follow the driving directions on Driving Route Two until you hit the Canadian town of Osoyoos. This time, instead of travelling north, you will be heading west from Osoyoos on Crowsnest Hwy/BC-3 E towards Castlegar. You will be travelling into the stunning Kootenay Rockies, through rolling orchards and vineyards, along lakesides and rivers.

Soak up Some Art and Culture

The small mountain town of Castlegar lies in the heart of the Kootenays and offers a mix of arts, culture, and outdoor adventure. It is known as the “sculpture capital of Canada” thanks to its outdoor installations. Every year, from May to October, local and international artists compete in Sculpturewalk, and many of the pieces are leased or purchased by the town to be displayed year round. Castlegar is located approximately 222 kilometers (2 hours and 40 minutes) from Osoyoos, so it makes a fantastic place to stop to stretch your legs.

If you are travelling during the summer months, take the opportunity learn some history about the Doukhobors, a group of Russian pacifists who migrated to the Kootenays in the early 1900s, at the Doukhobor Discovery Centre . As well, downtown Castlegar is home to the CPR Station Museum, housed in a 100+ year-old station.

From Castlegar, continue on the Crowsnest Highway to Creston, another hour and a half drive away to the east. This small town is considered to be a hidden gem in the Kootenays and is touted to be the next wine region in British Columbia. Along with three well known wineries, there is a plethora of outdoor spaces to enjoy, along with fantastic culinary opportunities.

Follow Highway 3 to the junction of BC-3/BC-95 N (signs for Cranbrook) and turn left. We already talked about Cranbrook in the Driving Route Three, so we won’t get into any more detail about the city or surrounds.

Experience Living History

This route, however, is going to continue north on Crowsnest Hwy/BC-3 W/BC-95 S and BC-93 N towards Invermere and Radium Hot Springs. You will pass through Fort Steele, where, if you have the time, you can visit the Heritage Park , which is the perfect place to step back in time to experience what life was like here in times previous. This living history museum is run by a not-for-profit and has 98 incredible structures that have been preserved, maintained or renovated to their original splendor for your enjoyment.

For an outdoor experience not too far up the road, you can head next to Wasa Lake Provincial Park, which has the warmest waters to swim in the Kootenays, or a bit farther along to another lovely warm lake that is popular with windsurfers, paddlers and fisherpersons – Columbia Lake Provincial Park.

Hot Springs = Natural Spa

The real attraction in this area is the next recommended stop along this route. Tucked into the valley between the Purcell Mountain Range and the Rockies, Fairmont Hot Springs has an array of outdoor activities to keep you busy while visiting, but of course, the highlight of any stop here is a soak in the hot springs themselves. From Fort Steele to Fairmont you should allow yourself an hour to drive, if you don’t stop anywhere along the route.

If you don’t get a chance to stop at Fairmont to enjoy soaking in the pools there, you can always make a stop at Radium Hot Springs, another gem of a spot found in the Kootenay Rockies and less than half an hour drive up the highway. Of course, the Radium Hot Springs Pools are the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere as you enjoy the naturally heated mineral waters. Stop in at the Visitor’s Center to get some information on the area from their great interpretive displays, or ask one of the staff about the nearby hiking or biking trails.

Radium is the last stop along this highway, so you need to watch for the turn off sign to head towards Lake Louise and Banff. Take BC-93 out of town to the east, and drive until you come to Highway 1, where you will take the off ramp to the right. From Radium, you are now only an hour and a half away from the town of Banff in the National Park. This highway is twisty, with lots of fantastic lookout points to stop and take pictures in. There are even some historical signs in some of the pull outs that will give you some basic information about the area. Travelling through the Kootenays and into the Canadian Rockies is an experience that you will never forget.

All Roads North Lead to Banff National Park

From Seattle to Banff, there are many great places to visit in Canada and the United States. These 4 road trips will take you through beautiful landscapes, historic sites, and even some of the best food around. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just some relaxation, the 4 epic road trips have something for everyone. Get ready to explore!

Kelly Smith

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Seattle to banff road trip: 11 best stops + 2 itineraries.

If you’re thinking about doing a Seattle to Banff road trip, I’m here to tell you it’s completely worth the long drive. Banff is hands-down one of the most jaw-dropping spots in Canada – imagine yourself in a landscape filled with enormous mountains, surreal lakes, and other spectacular natural features. While I’ve been to many parts of Canada over the years, Banff really is one of the most beautiful spots I’ve ever been to.

I’ve done a ton of road trips starting from Seattle, and this one’s a favorite because you get to cruise through some of the best parts of British Columbia along the way. I’m talking about killer views, from forests and coastlines to mountains, that make you pull over just to snap a picture. It’s not just about getting from Seattle to Banff; it’s about all the cool stuff you’ll see and do along the way.

In this article, I’ll share all my go-to spots on this drive. Looking for the perfect overlook for that epic photo? I’ve got you. Want to know where to grab a good bite that’s not just another fast-food joint? Yep, I’ve got that too. Need a comfy but affordable hotel for the night? I’ve got recommendations. Basically, if you want to know how to really enjoy the Seattle to Banff drive, stick around.

Table of Contents

Tips for a Seattle to Banff Drive

As with any road trip, there are a few key things to remember before turning on the ignition. Here are those tips.

How Far is a Seattle to Banff Road Trip?

There is more than one route to Banff from Seattle. The shortest route is on the Trans-Canada Highway, where you can stop at national parks, natural hot springs, and cities.

If you take this non-stop road trip from Seattle to Banff, be prepared to sit for 11 hours at minimum. The drive is about 600 miles and can vary in length depending on what roads you take and how many stops you make.

The second route is via I-90 E. This route takes you to national parks, cities, waterfalls, and alpine forests. It’s about 650 miles and takes slightly longer at 12 hours without stops.

What’s the Best Time of Year to Do a Seattle to Banff Road Trip?

The good news is that this trip is beautiful year-round and is a great road trip idea for couples .

You can expect clear skies and lush scenery throughout the journey in the summer. Banff and Seattle also have a daily high of over 70°F and cool evenings. This is ideal if you plan on doing a lot of hikes, canoeing, or water activities in general.

In winter, the whole area sees snowfall, and the Canadian Rockies are breathtaking when covered in snow. Of course, you’ll have to remember the freezing temperatures when planning a winter trip.

Banff can reach temperatures of -40°F on its coldest days. Travel in winter if you’re hoping to get a chance to ski, snowboard, or go on sleigh rides.

Can You Drive From Seattle to Banff in One Day?

Yes, you can. However, it would require more than one driver as the total drive time can take up to 13 hours, depending on your route. This turnaround also depends on whether you drive non-stop.

So, while it is possible, it’s not recommended. The best part about a road trip is the stops you make along the way, so, if you can, try to split up the journey into multiple days. 

Seattle to Banff Road Trip Map

Here are the places you’ll stop during this Seattle to Banff Road drive.

Seattle to Banff Road Trip Itinerary

Here’s a quick list of where I recommend stopping on a Banff road trip from Seattle:

• North Cascades National Park
• Okanagan Valley
• Lake Louise
• Mount Rainier National Park
• Glacier National Park

How to Drive From Seattle to Banff

Need help deciding which route to take? Below, I’ll break down everything you need to know.

Scenic Route

As mentioned, following the Trans-Canada Highway is the fastest route to Banff at only 11 hours of driving time. Adding a few pit stops along the way can make the course much longer.

This route is the most scenic, with stops along North Cascades National Park, Vancouver, Whistler, and Lake Louise . This brings the total driving time to about 18 hours.

I’d recommend breaking up this trip into two to three days to get the most enjoyment out of your time.

Fastest Route

The I-90 E route will take roughly 12 to 13 hours to complete. This is the fastest route when driving from Seattle to Banff, with stops that include Mount Ranier National Park, Spokane, and Glacier National Park.

This should bring the total driving time to about 17 hours, and, once again, I’d recommend it to be done over two to three days.

Best Places to Stop on a Seattle to Banff

Make your trip unforgettable with these beautiful stops along the way.

Route #1 Trans-Canada Highway

This is the most scenic route on a road trip to Banff from Seattle.

1. Seattle, Washington

Starting in Seattle means you’ll have a wide variety of things to do before the trip begins. I suggest you start early and pick up breakfast at Pike Place Market , which opens at 9 a.m. Here, you’ll have a variety of treats and coffee to choose from.

Since I’m a Seattle native, I could recommend dozens of local coffee shops to go to, but some of my favorites include the following:

• Victrola Coffee Roasters
• Storyville Coffee (the Pike Place location is particularly scenic)
• Cherry Street Coffee House

If you’re not from the city, consider taking some time to explore on your Seattle to Banff road trip. The Space Needle offers panoramic views of Seattle. The beautiful glass museum, Chihuly Garden and Glass , also sits next to it and deserves a visit. Carve out two to three hours in your itinerary to enjoy both places.

2. North Cascades National Park, Washington

To get to North Cascades National Park from Seattle, you’ll take the I-5 N, turn onto WA-530 E, and finally take the North Cascades Highway, which is about a two-hour drive .

North Cascades National Park is often called the ‘American Alps’ because of its jagged peaks and alpine lakes. Summer is the peak hiking season, with trail options ranging from under an hour to full-day hikes. I also love coming here in the fall because hikes like Blue Lake and Heather-Maple Pass are stunning when covered with fall foliage.

There are countless waterfalls and lakes you can see among the pines. If you’re lucky, you might see a handful of the park’s 300 glaciers if you’re lucky. Even in summer, some highly elevated mountain tops have snow.

You’ll also love going on the drive from Seattle to Yellowstone if you like national parks.

You should note that most of the North Cascades Highway closes from about October until May, so keep that in mind when planning your trip.

Note: Entrance to the North Cascades National Park is completely free!

Get your free road trip packing list here!

3. Vancouver, British Columbia

It’s another three-hour drive from North Cascades National Park to Vancouver, so I’d recommend calling it a day here on your Seattle road trip to Banff.

I have already covered a Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary, but here are the highlights. First on the list is a visit to the 405-hectare Stanley Park , filled with towering Sequoia trees and totem poles from the First Nation people.

The Vancouver Aquarium, Gastown District, and Capilano Suspension Bridge Park are also worth a visit. A great way to end the weekend on summer nights is to visit the Richmond Night Market or Granville Street in winter for lively nightlife and street food.

Don’t even get me started on the food in Vancouver – the last time I came here, I essentially ate and drank my way through the city. I recommend Rogue Kitchen & Wetbar for gastropub food and The Magnet if you want a huge variety of local beers to choose from.

4. Whistler, British Columbia

Vancouver to Whistler is only a short hour and a half drive away via BC-99 N and my favorite stop on the Seattle to Banff road trip. The village is known for its snow-capped peaks, sparkling lakes, and lush alpine hiking trails. 

This town has the largest ski resort in Canada — Whistler Blackcomb. The resort has many snow-centered activities to enjoy in winter, from skiing and ice fishing to bungee jumping and dog sledding.

I’ve been to Whistler dozens of times over the years and have also been here in every season. While winter is popular for skiing, I actually prefer the other seasons, so it’s easier to get around, and there’s more to do outside. 

In summer, Whistler comes alive with blooming wildflowers and roaming wildlife. Once again, you‘ll find many outdoor activities here. You can swim on the small beaches of the resort, hike alongside 900-year-old trees, or go boating to escape the heat.

5. Kamloops, British Columbia

Whistler to Kamloops is about a four-hour drive via the BC-99 N . The number one thing to do in Kamloops is to visit BC Wildlife Park to learn more about Canada’s varied wildlife, from bears to cougars.

As the temperatures drop, the city turns into a winter wonderland, with skiing and sleigh rides available at Sun Peaks Resort and Harper Mountain . For a culture trip, why not take a street art tour of the city’s many colorful portraits?

Alternatively, you can take another kind of culture trip and do a wine tasting at Monte Creek Winery before having lunch at The Terrace Restaurant.

6. Revelstoke, British Columbia

One of the best things to do in Revelstoke is visit its hot springs — especially after that long car drive. To get to Revelstoke, Stay on the Trans-Canada highway, and you should reach the city within two and a half hours .

There are a few hot springs about an hour out of town, but I recommend Crazy Creek Resorts on the way to Revelstoke. This hot spring offers remote relaxation among the alpine trees in mineral-rich pools. 

You’ll need to buy single-entry or day passes at the gate to enter. If you enjoy various activities, Crazy Creek Resorts also has hiking trails, a suspension bridge, and biking available.

7. Lake Louise and Banff National Park, Alberta

Lake Louise is a village just off Banff, about four hours from Revelstoke . You can reach it by staying on the Trans-Canada Highway. A few feet after the Golden Visitor Center, you’ll have to turn right onto BC-95 and then AB-93.

You’ve probably already seen images of this emerald lake without even knowing it. The crystal waters reflect the Rockies in a spectacular show resembling a painting. 

In winter, Lake Louise freezes over, making it the perfect place to enjoy ice skating, ice hockey, and other chilly activities. There’s even an ice bar on the lake that serves decadent hot chocolate. 

The lake typically defrosts by the first of June, and that’s when people gather again to enjoy water activities like a morning canoe ride.

Banff is a very short 38-minute drive from Lake Louise to Banff National Park (more about this below), and you may want to spend a few days in the area when visiting Banff from Seattle. 

Route #2 I 90 E

This is the second route you can take to reach Banff. While a bit less scenic, there are still tons to see.

If you’re taking this route to Banff, I would still recommend getting something to eat in the city. I suggest buying something to include in your picnic basket to enjoy in Mount Rainier National Park .

Pike Place , once again, remains a winner in finding a variety of treats and snacks to add to your lunch. I recommend getting bread at Three Girls Bakery , cured meats at DeLaurenti Food & Wine , or ready-packed meals at Michou Deli for a no-fuss lunch.

2. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

Roughly two hours from Seattle is the dormant stratovolcano — Mount Rainier. You can enter the park for $30 per car.

The park has so much to see, so don’t be surprised if you can’t see everything in one day. The top thing to do here is, of course, hike these spectacular trails. The easiest but prettiest trails are the Silver Trails Loop and Myrtle Falls, which take you to cascading waterfalls.

Some of the best sunset spots to enjoy here are Chinook Pass, Sourdough Ridge, and Reflection Lakes . Chinook Pass comes alive in summer with multicolored wildflowers, while Sourdough Ridge is most beautiful in winter. By then, the mountains peaking through at the back have a beautiful blanket of snow covering them.

Make sure to buy your America the Beautiful pass ahead of time so you can easily enter all the national parks for a low price.

3. Spokane, Washington

It is a four-and-a-half-hour drive from Mount Rainier National Park to Spokane via the I-82 and I-90. You make a few stops along the way to stretch your legs, like Dick and Jane’s Spot. 

This quirky spot in Ellensburg is just two hours away. The art studio is filled with unusual sculptures and super-friendly owners. Almost every inch of this house is a kaleidoscope of colors and patterns. It’s so eye-catching you can even see it from the side of the road.

Once you’ve reached Spokane, you can check into your hotel and go downtown to visit the city’s urban park — Riverfront Park . Here, you can enjoy the last rays of sunlight and explore over 30 sculptures, including the iconic ‘Garbage Goat.’ 

Not too far from here is the Wonder Market Food Hall , where you can pick up something to eat. If you want a more substantial sit-down meal, I recommend the fine-dining restaurant Wild Sage Bistro .

4. Glacier National Park, Montana

Stay on I-90 E for about four hours to reach your next destination. I’ve covered multiple stops you can take on a Spokane to Glacier National Park road trip . The top places you absolutely cannot miss are the quaint towns of Lake Coeur d’Alene, Wallace, and Columbia Falls.

The park has seven entrances, but taking the I-90 E will take you to the park’s western entrance. This is on Going-to-the-Sun Road — the most scenic route, so take your time snapping pictures and taking it all in.

I recommend you take easy trails like Avalanche Lake Trail and Aster Falls as an introduction to the park. While short, these trails offer incredible panoramic views and pass some sparkling waterfalls and lakes. Once you’ve conquered these, you can try more moderate to advanced trails.

Note: The park has an entrance fee of $35 per car.

5. Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is about three hours away from Glacier National Park, and you can reach it by almost exclusively staying on the AB-2 road.

Driving to Calgary, you should take time to enjoy the charming sites and shops along the three hours. Places like The Candy Store in Nanton and Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer unique souvenirs you can’t find anywhere else. 

Once you reach town, you can explore the Calgary Zoo , the Heritage Park Historical Village, and Calaway Amusement Park. 

6. Banff, Alberta

From Calgary to Banff is a short hour-and-a-half drive via the Trans-Canada Highway. The town is part of the Rocky Mountain Park UNESCO World Heritage Site and a short drive from the park.

Of course, many people visit Banff for the National Park, but you’ll need to buy a pass before entering. You can buy it at the visitor center or on the Banff and Lake Louise website beforehand. 

Set in the Rocky Mountains, outdoor enthusiasts flock to Banff National Park since its in 1885. It’s basically a playground with outdoor activities like hiking, boating, and wildlife watching. In winter, you can also expect skiing and snowshoeing.

Note: Tickets cost about $11, but kids under 18 can enter the park for free.

Seattle to Banff Itinerary (2 Routes)

I suggest breaking up your stay over two to three days for these routes. Here are the proposed itineraries for both routes.

Day 1: Seattle to Vancouver

Mileage: 4 hours, 32 minutes (232 miles) 

Your day starts in Seattle, where you’ll pick up breakfast and a few road-trip snacks. You can spend a few hours exploring the iconic landmarks in the city before starting your journey. Your first stop is the North Cascades National Park . 

The park is packed with beautiful lakes and trails to keep you busy for hours. Stop by Stehekin in the park for something to eat, a beer, or a refreshing ice cream.

Your last stop of the day is Vancouver . If you have time (and energy), I suggest stopping by one of the city’s parks before stopping by Gastown. Here, you can get food, drinks, and souvenirs before retiring for the night in your hotel.

Where to Stay: I recommend staying at the 3-star boutique Blue Horizon Hotel . It’s in the West End of Vancouver but still close to many attractions, and it even has an on-site restaurant for dinner. (Rates start at $216 per night)

Day 2: Vancouver to Kamloops

Mileage: 3 hours, 56 minutes (219.8 miles)

First on the morning agenda is to get breakfast in Vancouver at Jam Cafe or Cafe Medina. From there, you’ll move on to Whistler , where I recommend spending the afternoon at Whistler Blackcomb.

The final stop is Kamloops , where you can walk around the city on a street art tour or visit BC Wildlife Park for an educational trip. If you’d like to do wine tasting and get a bite to eat, I recommend Monte Creek Winery.

Where to Stay: Wingate by Wyndham Kamloops is a 4-star hotel near downtown Kamloops. It has a wellness spa, an indoor pool, and spacious rooms. (Rates start at $100 per night)

Day 3: Kamloops to Banff

Mileage: 6 hours, 56 minutes (372 miles)

You can enjoy breakfast at your hotel or visit the city for local fare. Either way, you’ll need your strength because today will be jam-packed.

Your first stop is driving to Revelstoke’s many hot springs. There are a few around the city, but I recommend Crazy Creek Resorts or Canyon Hot Springs. Once you’ve spent a few hours here, you can visit town for something to eat. 

I recommend walking through the side streets of Victoria Road to find hidden gems like Village Idiot Bar and Grill for a proper BBQ meal or The Taco Club. After your meal, it’s time to visit Lake Louise and Banff National Park as your last stops.

Where to Stay: High Country Inn is set at the foot of the Banff mountains. After a long day, relax at the dry cedar sauna or indoor pool before enjoying a meal at the on-site Swiss-Italian restaurant. (Rates start at $110 per night)

You can take this alternative route instead of Route 1 or use it for your return to Seattle.

Day 1: Seattle to Spokane

Mileage: 4 hours, 8 minutes (279 miles)

Take time to get your energy levels up by grabbing a cup of coffee and breakfast in Seattle . While you’re here, I recommend stopping by Pike Place to fill your picnic basket for Mount Rainier National Park .

Once in the park, you can spend your morning and afternoon hiking to the prettiest views of places like Myrtle Falls, Patriarchs Trail, and Eagle Peak. There are a few places to enjoy your packed lunch, but I recommend sitting near a bubbling waterfall like Narada Falls or Box Canyon.

After spending a few hours working up a sweat, head to Spokane, your last stop for the night. 

Where to Stay: The Davenport Grand, Autograph Collection is a historic hotel in the city center that you’ll love. (Rates start at $152 per night)

Day 2: Spokane to Glacier National Park

Mileage: 4 hours, 39 minutes (272 miles)

You can’t go wrong with having breakfast at Frank’s Diner. The restaurant is inside a train car, which adds to the vintage quirk.

Next, it’s off to Glacier National Park . You can make a few pit stops to stretch your legs, like at Lake Coeur d’Alene, Wallace, and Columbia Falls. You’ll find many hiking and biking trails, water activities, and more at the park.

Where to Stay: Meadow Lake Resort & Condos is 22 minutes from Columbia Falls Park. The resort offers a peaceful and remote stay with spacious modern rooms, a wellness center, and an indoor pool. (Rates start at $90 per night)

Day 3: Glacier National Park to Banff

Mileage: 4 hours, 20 minutes (253 miles)

Start your morning with a hearty breakfast from Nite Owl & Back Room Restaurants before returning to the road. You’ll need to take a short drive to Glacier National Park, where you can spend a few hours hiking, cycling, or going on a guided landscape tour. 

You can pack a picnic to enjoy in the park or eat lunch at one of the restaurants in Glacier National Park. In no time, you’ll reach Banff to end the trip by staying at a nearby restaurant and visiting the town for a late dinner.

Where to Stay: I again recommend High Country Inn for Banff because of its convenient location and affordability. (Rates start at $110 per night)

You’ll love going on a Seattle to Banff road trip, no matter which route you take.

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a passionate road trip enthusiast who has traveled extensively throughout the United States and Canada via car and continues to go on new trips every year to explore more of the country. Her love of road tripping has given her a unique perspective on the best routes, hidden gems, and must-see attractions along the way.

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8 incredible stops on a seattle to banff road trip.

You all know I’m a lover of road trips, but driving from Seattle to Banff is one of the most scenic ones you can do. The majority of it takes place in Canada, which is a country I can’t get enough of. From maple syrup lattes to delicious poutine, I’m obsessed with not only the food but also the majestic terrain there. That’s why I recommend that everyone go on a Seattle to Banff road trip at least once in their lives.

Banff holds a special place in my heart because it was actually the first solo trip I ever took. I flew into Calgary, got my rental car, and headed west, having no idea what I’d discover. While I picked winter to go (a bit of a tricky time to drive, depending on how much snow they have), I quickly fell in love with the area. The town itself was fun to browse through shops and try local food, and there was no shortage of outdoor adventures.

While it’s an easy flight from Seattle, doing the Banff drive from Seattle is even better. You’ll pass through some of my favorite cities in British Columbia and see way more scenery than flying over it. Here are some tips to keep in mind before going on your road trip from Seattle to Banff, my recommended stops, and a sample itinerary.

Table of Contents

Tips for a Seattle to Banff Road Trip

The most successful road trips rely on expert planning and good preparation (I should know – I’ve gone on many drives from Seattle before). Use these tips for a smooth Seattle to Banff National Park journey.

How Long Is the Drive From Seattle to Banff?

A drive from Seattle to Banff takes up to 11 hours non-stop, and you’ll cover around 600 miles . You’ll get the most out of your holiday if you split the drive into a few days. This way, you can take in all the beauty of the landscapes and landmarks throughout your trip.

Remember, a Seattle to Banff road trip falls within international travel, as you’re crossing the border from one country to another. Keep valid identification with you at all times, and double-check that the relevant border-crossing documentation is up to date.

How Many Days Are Ideal for a Seattle to Banff Road Trip?

Your trip will include incredible stops in interesting places and fun road trip activities, making four to five days enough time to get the full Seattle to Banff road experience. With an entertaining itinerary featuring diverse activities, you might even be tempted to squeeze in slight detours.

Enjoy the benefits of setting your own pace and being able to do things like hiking, sightseeing, picnics, and curious explorations in the small towns along the way. You’re in store for magnificent scenery and unique experiences in charming little nooks.

What’s the Best Time of the Year to Visit Banff?

Your ideal time for a Seattle to Banff road trip depends on things like your budget and the activities on your holiday bucket list. Weather conditions are another significant factor, as all travelers have their own preferences.

For summer lovers who want warm weather , Banff is best between June and August. Winter lovers (I’m talking to you, ski enthusiasts) will experience the best slopes between November and February.

Unlike winter in Vancouver , this area gets plenty of snow. I went during the winter, and while I didn’t ski, I did enjoy snowshoeing during this time of year.

The best time to visit Banff for delightful weather plus the perks of lower accommodation prices is in the spring , from March to May. The town retains its nature paradise allure, and reasonable rates make your travels even sweeter.

In the fall (September to October), the biggest bonus is a quieter period with fewer crowds .

What Should You Pack When Visiting Banff?

I love being snug when I travel, and having the essentials always makes each road trip more enjoyable. This short list of must-haves will ensure you’ve covered the basics.

• Warm sweaters : You can never go wrong with enough sweaters, both light and warm, so you’re comfortable during every part of your on-road adventures.
• Fleece tops : Throw a few fleece tops into your travel bag (along with sufficient pants and leggings), and you’ll be well-prepared for hikes, city walks, and lake visits on the way.
• Comfortable shoes : Every road tripper will confirm that comfy kicks are non-negotiable. So pack your favorite pairs and get ready for a host of discoveries as you traverse from Seattle to Banff.
• Sunscreen , hats, and sunglasses: Good sun protection, stylish hats, and sunglasses will come in handy on those bright days with pleasant temperatures.
• Water bottle : Staying hydrated throughout your trip will ensure you’re energized, so keep your water bottle filled. However, don’t overdo the liquid intake because too many potty breaks on the road can get interruptive.

Seattle to Banff Road Trip Map

This map will give you a snapshot of your Seattle to Banff drive.

8 Places to Stop on Your Seattle to Banff Road Trip

When you decide to leave your everyday worries behind and set out on a well-deserved break, nothing beats a road adventure. A Seattle to Banff trip is the perfect way to get in touch with nature, especially when you live in a busy city.

This road trip features astonishing mountain terrain, pristine lakes, beautiful rivers, and picturesque towns. Below are eight fantastic stops that I guarantee you’ll enjoy.

This awesome road trip starts in Seattle, the much-loved Emerald City . You’ll definitely want to spend a couple of hours soaking up the best of the world’s “coffee capital” before burning some rubber.

Fueling up before a drive is one of the most effective (and delicious) ways to get you in the mood, and Seattle’s popular foods will give you all the hype you need.

My top suggestions include lobster rolls (check out Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls downtown) and the undisputed Seattle dog . There are many great food trucks in town and numerous coffee joints for a one-of-a-kind Seattle cup of coffee ( Victrola Coffee Roasters is one of my favorites).

If you want to try local beer, head to Old Stove Brewing for beer and waterfront views, or look up some other popular Seattle breweries in the area.

With a full belly and a taste of Seattle, it’s time to get road-tripping. Make your way north toward Everett and Marysville, driving through the Mount Vernon region. Along the way, you can stop at North Cascades National Park for a little nature detour and spend a day trip in the North Cascades .

There are tons of hikes around the North Cascades to do if you have the time, with my favorite ones being Heather-Maple Loop and Blue Lake .

The Canadian border awaits, and Abbotsford will serve as your welcome city as it sits along the USA-Canada fringe. As you journey to Hope, you’ll pass the mountainous town of Chilliwack, rewarding you with marvelous views.

Highlights:

• North Cascades National Park: This is a brilliant hiking area. Immerse yourself in Washington State’s natural beauty with a serene walk on a Cascades trail.
• Harrison Hot Springs: This quaint Canadian village community near Harrison Lake is a pretty spot for pictures.
• Cascade Recreation Area: This is the park to visit for your first picnic lunch in Canada.

Want a shorter road trip? You’ll love driving from Seattle to Vancouver .

Your next stop is Hope , 164 miles from Seattle. If you’re keen to explore the area, make Hope your first overnight stay.

On route, you have the opportunity to visit the majestic Bridal Veil Falls . The park lies near the Fraser River, an easy 10 miles from Chilliwack—a great option for a quick detour.

Once you reach the stunning Bridal Veil Falls, the most impressive feature is the 197-foot waterfall cascading over the rock’s edge, forming a ‘veil’ (hence the name). Getting to the waterfall is a short 15-minute walk, so you also get some moderate exercise. Make sure to take loads of striking pictures in this verdant mountain escape.

Hope is just 30 minutes away from Bridal Falls. During a self-guided walking tour, you can spend the rest of the day meandering around town. You can’t miss the more than 80 chainsaw wood carvings sprinkled around town during your Banff road trip from Seattle, an iconic landmark.

Fun fact: The 1982 film “Rambo: First Blood” was filmed in Hope. It’s a little nugget of the town’s history that the locals are only too happy to rave about.

Where to Stay in Hope:

• High Hopes Bed and Breakfast has cozy rooms with private balconies where you can enjoy the unmatched river and mountain vistas. (Rates start at $136 per night.)
• Evergreen Bed & Breakfast offers comfortable stays close to popular attractions, including Hope Mountain. (Rates start at $105 per night.)

3. Kamloops

After leaving Hope, continue north along the Coquihalla Highway toward Kamloops. This stretch takes about two hours, and you’ll complete 126 miles. If you favor taking it easy, I recommend a second overnight stay on your road trip to Banff from Seattle.

Kamloops is one of my favorite places to visit in Canada, and you can pack a whole lot of activities into one day here. Top attractions include Kamloops Lake , near which you’ll find the coolest clay hoodoo rock formations . British Columbia Wildlife Park is also up for grabs for a half-day excursion.

If the detour bug bites, head to Sicamous, an hour and a half (86 miles) from Kamloops. More gorgeous lake and mountain scenery beckons here, where you can enjoy your favorite outdoor activities. Behold amazing views from the Sicamous Lookout , then return to Kamloops to wind down for the day.

Where to Eat in Kamloops:

• Hello Toast and Frankly Coffee ﹘for delicious breakfast and brunch options
• BOLD Pizzeria ﹘for the best pizzas in town
• Sandbar Grill ﹘for tantalizing gourmet burgers
• ATLAS Steak + Fish ﹘no need to explain; it’s all in the name
• The Noble Pig ﹘for a unique brewhouse and upscale pub dining experience

Where to Stay in Kamloops:

• Sandman Signature is one of the best hotels in Kamloops, with two on-site restaurants, a gym, and a bar. (Rates start at $103 per night)
• The Plaza provides hotel stays at surprisingly affordable prices right in the city center. (Rates start at $68 per night)
• Hampt on Inn boasts the perks of an indoor swimming pool, hot tub, gym, and games room. (Rates start at $124 per night)

4. Revelstoke

Once you’ve painted Kamloops red and white (because of the Canadian flag), all roads lead to Revelstoke on your Seattle to Banff driving trip — 2 hours and 30 minutes (132 miles) away. The ride is blissful, thanks to the idyllic river and lakes lining the highway.

When you get to Revelstoke, prepare to line up more wild adventures, as I suggest you make this your final overnight stay before you get to Banff. That’ll secure enough time to have a grand old time in this rainforest haven .

Things to Do in Revelstoke:

• Go wildlife-spotting: You might be lucky enough to spot mountain lions, grizzly bears, and reindeer in Revelstoke’s abundant forest areas.
• Go whitewater rafting on the Glacier-fed Illecillewaet River.
• Visit Mount Revelstoke National Park : Grab my day hiking packing list and explore the great Canadian outdoors in true nature baby fashion.
• Experience a thrilling joyride on the Pipe Mountain Coaster at Revelstoke Mountain Resort . You can also hop into the Revelation Gondola for sublime views of the region’s sprawling mountain ranges.

Where to Stay in Revelstoke:

• Sutton Place is the perfect hotel when visiting Revelstoke in the winter. The ski-in-ski-out suites (i.e., ski-to-door access) make for superb rides. (Rates start at $144 per night)
• Basecamp Resorts Revelstoke offers affordable luxury right in the middle of the forest. (Rates start at $87 per night)
• Regent Hotel has it all: sweeping views, on-site restaurants, a sauna, and live entertainment. (Rates start at $166 per night)

5. Glacier National Park of Canada

You’re getting closer to Banff, so it’s finally time to head to Canada’s Glacier National Park . This is not to be confused with the one you’d visit if you were doing a Seattle to Glacier National Park road trip in Montana.

The trip from Revelstoke to Glacier is a quick half-hour ride (29 miles), so there’s no need for a sleepover. At the 521 square mile park , you can hike, enjoy a picnic, and take mesmerizing nature photographs of the wondrous surroundings. This lush, expansive area features enormous mountains, thick forests, and over 100 glaciers, so you’ll want to stop here on your Seattle road trip to Banff.

Things to Do at Glacier National Park:

• Visit the Rovers Pass Discovery Center to learn about the park’s fascinating history.
• Take a stroll along the Hemlock Grove Boardwalk .
• Explore any of the park’s tranquil trails : Among the best are Glacier Crest, Meeting of the Waters, Rockgarden, Loop Brook, and Asulkan Valley.

After your time at Glacier National Park, head to Golden , just 40 minutes (36 miles) away. This short journey on your Seattle to Banff road trip leads to a quiet little town where you can do some self-directed exploring and fill up on tasty grub before making your way toward Banff.

For amazing views and an enthralling experience in Golden, walk across the highest suspension bridge in Canada at the Golden Skybridge . You’ll feel like you’re floating 426 feet above the Columbia Valley. You can go ziplining or whiz up and down for heart-thumping adventures on the Railrider Mountain Coaster .

Other attractions include the timber-framed Kicking Horse River Pedestrian Bridge and the Golden BC Museum . Here, history lovers can get their fix by learning about the town’s background and all sorts of facts about the Ktunaxa and Kinbasket peoples and their territory.

Where to Eat in Golden:

• Reposados ﹘for mouth-watering tacos and burritos
• Eleven22 ﹘for yummy comfort food
• Jita’s Cafe ﹘for the best vegan wraps, curries, and soups in town
• Ronin Noodle Bar ﹘for scrumptious Asian fare
• Nagomi Sushi ﹘for affordable sushi meals

I love using Roadtrippers for all my road trips because they show you all the fun stops to make along the way. You can get $5 off if you sign up with my code BTR5QTP .

7. Banff National Park

Less than an hour (45 miles) from Golden is Alberta’s Banff National Park , the next stop before you reach your final destination when visiting Banff from Seattle. You’ll travel along the Trans-Canada Highway (also called Highway 1) to get there.

Banff National Park is part of the Canadian Rockies and is celebrated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its dynamic natural and cultural history . The area is yours to discover, whether you choose a bike ride, a nature walk, or a scenic drive.

There are so many areas to discover here, so I recommend spending at least a few days if you have the time. Plenty of hikes are in the area, and I loved doing Johnston Canyon when I was there. If you visit during the winter, you can rent crampons from a local shop in town to walk on the snow and ice.

• Lake Louise: With sparkling turquoise waters, this is a picture-perfect location for mountain backdrops and quiet reflections. Summers allow canoeing and kayaking opportunities, while ice skating is the most popular winter activity on the lake.
• Victoria Glacier: Sitting above Lake Louise, this is one of the most exquisite glaciers in Banff National Park.
• Lake Minnewanka: This stunning lake is one of the largest and longest in Canada, with fabulous mountain scenery.

Best Curated Experiences in the Banff Area:

• Enjoy a horseback riding experience along Bow River in Banff National Park.
• Voyage down Banff National Park’s Bow River in an exciting guided canoe tour .
• Get a taste of the Western way with a Banff wagon ride , plus a traditional cookout.

When you leave Banff National Park and travel east from Lake Louise, continuing on Highway 1 for 45 minutes, you’ll get to Banff . You’ve made it to your final destination, a charming town so full of character that it’s well-liked for weekend getaways from Vancouver . The first time I came here, I was completely in love with this adorable town.

Your first stop in town is the lively Banff Avenue , adorned with unique architecture, boutique shops, romantic eateries, and a few museums. There’s plenty of sightseeing to do and more culinary activities on the menu to get a real feel of town.

Attractions include the Banff Gondola , the Cascade of Time Garden , the Bow Falls , and the Cave and Basin National Historic Site . The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies has wonderful exhibitions and collections capturing the region’s history.

For the ultimate relaxation activity, visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs for a thermal bathhouse experience amidst the lofty Canadian Cascades mountain range. It’ll spoil your well-earned road trip as you prepare to close your Seattle to Banff holiday journey.

Seattle to Banff Itinerary: 4-Day Road Trip

I love planning out an itinerary because it sets out my journey and provides scope for maximizing my time on the road without missing any rip-roaring action.

Whether it’s a travel plan for exploring one city, like this four-day Seattle itinerary , or a travel program for an entire road trip, a clear guide always helps. Here’s my suggested four-day itinerary for your Seattle to Banff road trip.

Day 1: Seattle, Washington, to Hope, British Columbia

Driving Time and Distance: 2 hours and 50 minutes (164 miles)

Day one of your Seattle to Banff road trip consists of a manageable 164-mile drive that should take less than three hours . You’ll be journeying from the Emerald City in Washington State to the town of Hope in British Columbia.

No road trip can begin without good food, and Seattle is a treasure trove of excellent eateries, especially downtown . My favorites are Vinnie’s Raw Bar (an oyster mecca), Pike Place’s Market Grill, Japonessa Sushi Cocina, and Noi Thai Cuisine .

When the tank and your tummy are both full, hit the road and head to Canada’s border. Cities like Abbotsford and Chilliwack provide quick detour opportunities once across. There are loads to see and do in locations like North Cascades National Park and the Cascade Recreation Area , prime tourist attractions.

Where to Stay: High Hopes Bed and Breakfast offers cozy accommodations and lovely mountain views less than two miles from the town center. (Rates start at $136 per night)

Day 2: Hope, British Columbia, to Kamloops, British Columbia

Driving Time and Distance: 2 hours and 10 minutes (126 miles)

On the second day of the trip, leave Hope for Kamloops, the halfway point between Seattle and Banff. This will be roughly two hours on the road, with a chance to get some heart-pumping holiday action on the agenda.

You should be ready for some adventure at this point in the trip, and Kamloops has many hiking trails where you can let your inner treehugger out. You can go for a mountain trek in spring, summer, and fall. In winter, you can go skiing in Kamloops’ outer skirts.

This region has some of the most divine lakes in British Columbia , such as Kamloops, Pinantan, Knouff, and Jacko Lakes. Let your time spent here inspire you to reconnect with nature in a special way.

Where to Stay: Win gate (by Wyndham Kamloops) has brilliant amenities, including a gym, spa, indoor pool, and a hot tub. (Rates start at $112 per night)

Day 3: Kamloops, British Columbia, to Revelstoke, British Columbia

Driving Time and Distance: 2 hours and 20 minutes (132 miles)

Leaving Kamloops on day three, the second half of your road trip will unfold. As you enter Revelstoke’s plush rainforest terrain , you’ll be amazed by how enchanting this region is.

This is a nature wonderland, from the wildlife to the unending mountain landscapes to the rivers and lakes. Make stops at Mount Revelstoke National Park and Revelstoke Mountain Resort for unforgettable outdoor activities.

Where to Stay: Coast Hillcrest H o t el ensures homey stays with access to an on-site restaurant, spa, fitness center, hot tub, and sauna. (Rates start at $117 per night)

Day 4: Revelstoke, British Columbia, to Banff, Alberta

Driving Time and Distance: 3 hours and 15 minutes (176 miles)

On the last day of the road trip, you’ll cover quite a bit of ground, with numerous attractions on the way from Revelstoke to Banff. This remaining stretch is just over three hours, so you’ll have to balance travel and activity time.

You can diversify your experiences on the fourth and final day. Explore the best parts of Glacier National Park before moving on to the town of Golden. The Golden Skybridge is just one of the highlights here. You can follow that up with a museum visit at the Golden BC Museum and some gift shopping downtown.

When you get back on the road and head toward Banff National Park , you’ll officially be leaving British Columbia and entering Alberta. This is your last chance to soak up any outdoor activities that earlier parts of the trip didn’t allow. You can ruminate about life’s beauty while appreciating the scenes at Lake Louise .

You’re now ready to drive to Banff, where you’ll be concluding your expedition. Savor the best of Banff’s attractions, like the town’s buzzing Avenue, as you embrace your road trip’s curtain call. Hopefully, you’ve made terrific holiday memories on this 600-mile, two-nation journey.

Where to Stay: Canalta Lodge has spacious rooms and intimate spaces that are great for socializing, like an outdoor fireplace, barbecue area, and on-site coffee shop. (Rates start at $124 per night)

Whether you see a few or all of these stops, you’ll love going on a Seattle to Banff road trip.

Marissa Pedersen

Marissa is a Seattle local who's obsessed with exploring all things Pacific Northwest, especially hiking, road trips, and national parks. She's been to hundreds of places all over the region and started this website to help others discover the beauty of the area and create their own trips.

4 thoughts on “ 8 Incredible Stops on a Seattle to Banff Road Trip ”

Hello from Mexico! Thank you for putting this awesome blog post together! Do you think it would be possible to do just one stop or two from Seattle to Banff? If yes, what stops would you recommend? I would like to do this trip in early February.

Hi Stefanie, if you stop only once, I would do it in a larger city, like Kamloops. Just keep in mind that it’ll likely take you longer overall since you’re going when there’s a lot of snow.

Hi Marissa, great tips for the route from Seattle to Banff! I was wondering if you have any tips for the drive back to Seattle from Banff? Do you usually stop at other places along the way for the drive back?

Yes, I typically break it up, but also I’m usually in more of a rush to get back versus going there too.

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8 Spectacular Seattle to Banff Road Trip Stops

Discover a set of natural landmarks in this Seattle to Banff Road Trip

Seattle to Banff is definitely one of the most exciting road trips I’ve ever been on! This route seamlessly weaves the splendours of two incredible nations, the USA and Canada, treating you to breathtaking scenery, mesmerizing natural marvels, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and an array of national parks These timeless attractions continually captivate, making it an essential adventure to add to your travel bucket list.

While there’s so much to see between Seattle and Banff, I thought of creating a comprehensive guide that will accommodate all useful resources to orchestrate this road trip. In this guide, you’ll find the best-recommended routes, suggested pit stops, accommodation options, and an extensive catalogue of activities and guided tours, which will help you gain a brief understanding.

Planning Tips for Seattle to Banff Drive

Best route to reach banff from seattle.

When journeying from Seattle to Banff, you have various route options, allowing flexibility based on your preferences and available time. The swiftest route takes you northward through Canada, spanning a distance of 606 miles and requiring 11 hours of uninterrupted driving.

An alternative choice is the I-90 E route, spanning 639 miles and requiring around 12 hours of travel time. Yet, for this particular road trip, we recommend against this option. The reason being, that there are fewer viewpoints and noteworthy stops along the way in comparison to the Trans-Canada Highway.

Driving Times for Seattle to Banff

The driving times for the Seattle to Banff route may vary depending on the route you choose:

• Distance: Approximately 606 miles
• Driving Time: About 11 hours (non-stop)
• Distance: Approximately 725 miles
• Driving Time: Around 13 hours and 30 minutes (non-stop)
• Distance: Approximately 639 miles
• Driving Time: Approximately 12 hours

It’s important to note that these driving times are approximate and based on continuous driving without any stops or detours. Actual driving times may vary depending on factors such as road conditions, traffic, weather, and breaks taken during the journey.

How to Rent a Car

To rent a car for your Seattle to Banff road trip, I suggest  Rentalcars.com . I’ve personally used their service and have found it incredibly affordable compared to other rental operators. With maximum safety assurance, you can be sure of booking the right vehicle for your entire journey.

Seattle to Banff Road Trip Map

Here’s a driving route map (including stopover stops) –

Seattle to Banff Road Trip Stops

North cascades national park.

North Cascades National Park is renowned for its awe-inspiring peaks, glacial lakes, ancient woodlands, and cascading waterfalls. This concealed gem within the U.S. emerges as an increasingly sought-after destination with each passing year.

Remarkably underrated, particularly among hikers and backpackers, this national park finds it difficult to compete with its counterparts like Olympic or Rainier National Parks. However, I feel it’s one of the unique & unspoiled gems of the country, which needs a little more admiration from travellers.

Lodging | Where to stay aroun d North Cascades National Park

Interestingly, North Cascades isn’t a place you can merely traverse by car to catch sight of its landmarks. n fact, you might effortlessly navigate Highway 20 through the park and scarcely realize you’re within the confines of North Cascades. So basically, if you really need to hit the top sights of this park, you will need to get off the highway.

If you decide to spend a night in the park, here are some of the top things to check out –

1. Go Day Hiking

If you’re an avid hiker (like me), you simply won’t get enough of the hiking opportunities this national park presents. With numerous trials of all difficulty levels, you could spend your whole day wandering through the forests exploring scenic vantage points.

Some of the best hikes of this park are often busy during the weekends, since Seattleites like driving up to the park as a day trip. But, if you’re here on a weekday, then it’s quite possible to have the trail to yourself.

You can check this detailed guide on some of the best hikes in North Cascades National Park. However, I highly recommend checking out Blue Lake. It is one of the most gorgeous hikes within the realm of national parks, treating you to utterly breathtaking panoramas of the Cascades. With a round-trip span of 4.4 miles and a modest elevation gain of 1000 feet, it offers a relatively accessible experience, when compared to others.

2. Visit Diablo Lake Vista Point

North Cascades is home to a number of vantage points, but none of them could be compared to the scenic vistas Diablo Lake Vista Point offers. It’s one of the easily accessible vantage points of the park, so you could simply pull up your car and gaze at the stunning Diablo Lake below. It is best viewed during summers when the lake gleams with an iridescent vibrancy, offering a shimmering spectacle.

Vancouver, BC

Vancouver is celebrated for its standing as one of the world’s most captivating cities. Situated on a peninsula, it finds itself encircled by regal mountains and glistening waters, all juxtaposed against the lush splendour of radiant rainforests. This striking dichotomy is a stunning counterpoint to the modern skyscrapers that grace the city’s skyline.

While the city might be crowded during the peak seasons of British Columbia, it still remains an enjoyable city. Thanks to its numerous art scenes, delicious restaurants, luxurious boutiques, historic districts, and bustling markets on which Vancouver thrives.

Accommodation : GEC Granville Suites Downtown | The Burrard | OPUS Vancouver

Ensure that you spend a good amount of time exploring the sights of Vancouver before heading north. Generally, a guided tour serves as the best introductory version to some of the city’s most famous attractions as well as hidden sights. It also saves up a good amount of time, as you don’t have to meander individually to any sightseeing.

However, if solo exploration is your thing then do visit these prominent landmarks in Vancouver: Stanley Park , Vancouver Aquarium , Granville Island , Grouse Mountain , and the Polygon Gallery . It’s not possible to cover all of them in a single day, but you could plan two to three days exploring the many sights of Vancouver.

Whistler, BC

Whistler, a premier ski destination in Canada, is a favourite vacation spot for both locals and visitors alike, attracting them throughout the year, be it summer or winter. As one of the most popular villages, Whistler experiences a high influx of tourists during peak seasons.

Encircling the village, the region is home to untamed rivers, crystalline teal lakes, sprawling forests, and majestic volcanic summits. Moreover, there’s only one main road, Highway 99 (commonly referred to as Sea-to-Sky Highway) interlaces the region’s various attractions and communities. This scenic route also stands as one of Canada’s most remarkable road journeys.

Accommodation : Pangea Pod Hotel | The Listel Hotel Whistler | Blackcomb Springs Suites

Some of the best things to do in Whistler, BC include –

1. Visit Whistler Blackcomb

The main highlight of Whistler is Whistler Blackcomb, an impressive ski resort boasting more than 200 trails, an extensive network of 37 lifts, and 17 mountain resorts. Spanning a vast area of 8,171 acres, Whistler Blackcomb offers an expansive playground for winter enthusiasts. It’s an amazing destination for you to indulge in activities like skiing, snowboarding, dog-sledding, ice fishing, ice climbing, and ice skating.

2. Ride Peak 2 Peak Gondola

Considered one of the best things to do in Whistler, riding the Peak 2 Peak Gondola is a thrilling experience. It’s an elevated journey bridging the gap between two towering mountains. The approximate distance to get across is 4.4 kilometres, but it merely takes 11 minutes to complete the ride. However, even this time feels insufficient once you get used to the snow-cloaked peaks and lush coniferous woodlands.

3. Explore Hiking Trails

British Columbia stands distinguished for its abundant hiking trails, and Whistler is no exception. These pathways get you up close to some of the region’s most dramatic landscapes. Most of these trails are beginner-friendly, while few require moderate to excellent fitness levels. Some of the famous ones include the Garibaldi Lake Trail, Panorama Ridge Trail, Ancient Cedars Trail, Cheakamus Lake Trail, and Singing Pass Trail.

Kamloops, BC

Situated about midway between Calgary and Vancouver, Kamloops is a stunning mountain enclave, inhabited by around 100,000 residents. Boasting a flourishing winery culture and a desert-like climate, the town shares similar characteristics to Kelowna in the Okanagan Valley.

However, unlike Kelowna, Kamloops is relatively quiet and an underrated destination to visit. But it still emerges as a base for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an abundance of scenic lakes, meandering rivers, and pristine trails to explore. Moreover, the town nestles in great proximity to the Sun Peaks Ski Resort, the second-largest of its kind in Canada.

Accommodation : Wingate by Wyndham | Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriot t

Here are some of the notable things to do in Kamloops, BC –

1. Go Skiing and Snowboarding

Spanning across 4,270 acres, Sun Peaks Resort is a paradise for all winter sports enthusiasts. Boasting an impressive 13 chairlifts and a network of 137 ski trails, catering to all skill levels from beginners to experts, the resort offers a plethora of thrilling activities to slide down the snow-clad mountains.

2. Try Delicious Beverages

Kamloops is also home to a selection of exceptional breweries, cideries, and distilleries catering to tourists with a taste for varied alcoholic delights. With multiple options to explore, one standout recommendation is Bright Eye Brewing. While I haven’t had the opportunity to sample all the choices, Bright Eye Brewing stands out for its diverse and innovative beer offerings.

3. Explore Kamloops Lake

Kamloops Lake is a truly stunning sight, covering the majority of the landscape. You can marvel at the lake through the hiking trails, but it’s even more fun if you canoe, kayak or paddle. The north shore boasts a convenient boat launch, and once you start kayaking, you’ll be treated to beautiful vistas of rocky beaches, unique hoodoos, imposing cliffs, and a plethora of other natural wonders.

Okanagan Valley, BC

Stretching across 180 kilometres, the Okanagan Valley is considered to be one of the best day trips from Kelowna. The region harbours lush orchards of peaches and apricots, along with a multitude of exceptional wineries. These vineyards sprawl across terraced hills, basking in the abundant sunshine that characterizes this region of Canada.

While Okanagan Valley is renowned for its sun-drenched summers with pristine freshwater beaches and hiking trails all around, its winters are not to be missed. The entire valley transforms into a haven for skiing enthusiasts, making it one of the must-visit stops on our Seattle to Banff road trip.

Lodging : These are the best accommodation options in Okanagan Valley, BC .

1. Visit Historic O’Keefe Ranch

Established in 1867, the Historic O’Keefe Ranch serves as a living testament to the ranching legacy of British Columbia. It’s one of the notable and must-see places of the Okanagan Valley. The ranch boasts an array of historic structures, both modest and grand, with few still open for your exploration.

Furthermore, you can take a guided tour of the O’Keefe family residence and pitstop at the General Store to relish a refreshing beverage. While there, don’t overlook the enchanting St. Ann’s Church—an esteemed wedding venue that still holds importance to this place.

2. Taste Okanagan’s Famous Wines

Arguably, the Okanagan’s most renowned feature is its impressive assembly of nearly 200 wineries dotting the landscape. I suggest exploring a handful of wineries situated across diverse terrains and terroirs. This way, you’ll delight in nuanced tasting experiences, as the grapes reflect their unique surroundings. Even if wine isn’t your indulgence, it’s still pleasing to visit these vineyards and wineries, that offer not only tastings but also breathtaking vistas and an all-around enjoyable experience.

Revelstoke, BC

Tucked in the eastern part of British Columbia, Revelstoke exudes itself as one of the best mountain towns in the region. Renowned for its allure, visitors flock to Revelstoke for the iconic Revelstoke Mountain Resort. The resort not only offers exceptional inbounds skiing but also boundless heli-skiing and cat-skiing experiences, solidifying its status as winter’s premier attraction in Revelstoke.

While this quaint town might not bask in the same limelight as its British Columbia counterparts, its dynamic outdoor spirit and vibrant community inject an amazing vibe. With art galleries, boutiques, amazing cafes & restaurants and craft liquor stores lining up the downtown street, there’s much to admire & love in this lovely town!

Accommodation: Swiss Chalet Motel | Basecamp Resorts | Grizz Hotel

1. Indulge in Hot Springs

Surprisingly, Revelstoke houses some of the best hot springs. Some may require you to drive a little away from the town, but it’s still worthwhile taking a dip in a natural hot spring. The one I visited was Canyon Hot Springs, which is located amidst the densely forested areas of a mountain. It’s only a 20-minute drive from the town and I found this place simply amazing. I’ll also suggest checking out Crazy Creek Resort and Hot Pools , Nakusp Hot Springs , and Halcyon Hot Springs .

2. Ride the Revelstoke Mountain Resort Gondola

Revelstoke Mountain Resort proudly boasts the loftiest vertical drop of all North American ski resorts, measuring an impressive 1,713 meters. During the summer months, you can embark on gondola rides ascending the slopes of Mount Mackenzie, which provides you with stunning vistas and accessible hiking trails.

While there, don’t miss the chance to explore the Glacier View and Revelstoke View lookouts, perched near the pinnacle of the Revelation Gondola. The Revelstoke View lookout, in particular, treats you to a magnificent town panorama.

Glacier National Park

Nestled in the northern reaches of Montana, mere miles from the Canadian border, Glacier National Park is known for its mountain getaways, unparalleled hiking experiences, and one of the most exceptional scenic drives on a global scale. It’s one of the best destinations to visit on our Seattle to Banff road trip.

Stretching across a vast territory spanning over 700 miles of hiking trails along with the iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road, Glacier National Park boasts an abundance of adventure activities. Since it’s quite overwhelming for first-timers, here are some of the notable things to do during your travel.

Find out more | Lodging & Accommodations in Glacier National Park

1. Drive Going-to-the-Sun Road

If you’re short on time and you’ve got a couple of hours to explore Glacier National Park, then I highly recommend driving this epic route Going-to-the-Sun-Road . For such a fancy name, this drive truly leaves up to its expectations to be called one of the top scenic drives in the United States. It’s a 51-mile engineering marvel that winds and snakes through the monumental landmarks of the national park. The road also connects popular hiking trails, campgrounds, lodges and visitor centers.

Please note: Going-to-the-Sun-Road is closed during the fall and spring seasons due to harsh winters. The only time to drive this iconic route is between mid-June and early October.

2. Venture Grinnell Glacier Trail

The Grinnell Glacier Trail ranks among the favoured and easily reached hikes within Glacier National Park. Starting from Many Glacier Hotel , this 11-mile-long hike cuts through Swiftcurrent Lake  and  Lake Josephine , further traversing into different viewpoints of the park. It ends at Grinnell Glacier Viewpoint  at  Upper Grinnell Lake from where you get to see the panoramic views of the entire mountain range.

3. Visit Hidden Lake Overlook

The Hidden Lake Overtrail Trail stands as another well-frequented path, offering accessibility to novice hikers. Unlike the Grinnell Glacier Trail, this route exclusively winds through the untamed expanses and verdant meadows of the national park. Furthermore, Hidden Lake Overtrail Trail offers more opportunities to spot American wildlife such as marmots, goats, bighorn sheep, and bears.

Banff National Park

Nestled amidst rugged mountains, Banff National Park stands as a veritable haven of glacial lakes and emerald-blue waters, painting an iconic tableau that defines Canada’s natural splendour. It’s a must-visit destination for all outdoor enthusiasts, especially for the ones making their way to British Columbia.

Encompassing a staggering expanse of 2,564 square miles replete with untamed terrain and wilderness, Banff proudly holds the distinction of being Canada’s inaugural national park. Interestingly, only four percent of this expansive park is accessible by road. So, you could simply imagine the sheer grandeur of this magnificent natural beauty.

Read | Where To Stay In Banff National Park

Banff National Park is a pristine playground for travellers visiting. The changing seasons bring in more dramatic colours that visually look so appealing. Though it’s a year-round destination, Banff is best visited during summers when alpine flowers bloom. While it might be crowded during the peak season, I suggest timing your visit either in June or September.

How many days is enough to visit Banff? While 2 days suffice to cover the primary attractions, note that your schedule might be tightly packed, leaving little room for leisurely moments. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, then extending your stay to 3 or 4 days is advisable. This ensures a good balance between exploration and enjoyment.

On the other hand, there’s plenty to do around Banff National Park. From beautiful lakes to glistening glaciers, there’s a lot to marvel at. Below are some of the recommended activities to do if you’re visiting Banff for the first time.

1. Admire Banff’s Scenic Lakes

Banff National Park is home to vivid blue lakes that were formed over millennia by the majestic Canadian Rockies. These vibrant blue lakes and canyons truly depict nature’s enduring artistry. Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise, Moraine Lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, and Peyto Lake atop the Icefields Parkway are some of the destinations that are unmissable during your visit to Banff.

You can check some of these guided tours to these lakes below –

Alternatively, I suggest reading our Canadian Rockies Itinerary guide which details a comprehensive itinerary on how to visit the best attractions of Banff National Park.

2. Explore Hiking Trails

Banff is a paradisiacal destination for all adventure lovers. The extensive network of over 1,000 miles of hiking trails within the national park offers visitors to intimately experience the lush wilderness. The hikes in the region range from beginner levels to difficult ones, with the latter giving more fruitful rewards to unique hidden spots and viewpoints.

The best one I suggest to start off with is a hike to Lake Agnes Tea House in the Lake Louise area. Since its establishment in 1901, the historic Lake Agnes Tea House has been enchanting travellers with its offering of loose tea leaves for over a century. The hike cuts through the deep forests of Banff National Park and passes through short bridges and cascading waterfalls to reach the shore of Lake Agnes.

Alternatively, I also recommend venturing Plain of Six Glaciers which is one of the easiest and most accessible trails. It’s known for its panoramic views of the glaciers that surround Lake Louise, with far-sighted views of Mt. Lefroy, Mt. Victoria, and the Victoria Glacier.

Further Readings & Resources

New Jersey to Florida: 9 Ultimate New Jersey to Florida Road Trip Spots San Francisco to Seattle: 10 Most Beautiful San Francisco to Seattle Road Trip Stops Chicago to Niagara Falls: 9 Spectacular Chicago to Niagara Falls Road Trip Stops Los Angeles to Yosemite: 9 Sensational Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Stops New York to Maine: 8 Spectacular Spots on New York to Maine Road Trip

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Road Trip from Seattle to Banff

If you're looking to escape the bustling city and immerse yourself in stunning mountain scenery, then the road trip from Seattle to Banff is a real get back to nature adventure. Along the way you'll discover quaint towns, gorgeous rivers and lakes and incredible parks and forests.

The 600-mile road trip from Seattle to Banff takes 11 hours to drive. Key stops include Kamloops, Revelstoke, Spokane, Calgary and Missoula plus Great Falls, Kootenay National Park, North Cascades National Park, Lake Louise and Glacier National Park.

To help you make the most of it we've set out the best routes, places to stop overnight as well as our favorite places to visit and time of year to make the trip from Seattle to Banff.

How far is Banff from Seattle, and how long will the road trip take?

There are several different ways you can drive from Seattle to Banff, depending on your preference and the time you have to complete the trip. The quickest will see you head north through Canada and covers a distance of 600 miles, taking 11 hours of non-stop driving.

A southern route option is available which is slightly longer at 725 miles and instead will take 13 hours and 30 minutes of driving without stopping through stunning forests.

Our final suggestion is suited to a winter road trip, where you won't have to worry about icy road conditions. Spanning a distance of 1,065 miles, it's the longest of the three and will take you 16 hours and 45 minutes to complete.

Given the gorgeous scenery, towns and cities you'll be driving through, we'd recommend spending at least three to four days on this road trip, slightly longer if you're hiking along the way.

As you'll be crossing from the US into Canada, you'll also need to remember your proof of identity and to check ahead of the border crossing that you have all the correct documentation with you.

Best road trip route from Seattle to Banff

The best road trip will largely depend on what kind of drive you'd like, as well as the type of scenery you'll most enjoy between Seattle and Banff. The northern option is our Fast Route, not only is it the most direct but you'll be sticking to highways making it straightforward.

Despite it being a direct route, you'll still get plenty of stunning scenery past mountains, lakes and rivers all the way to Banff. There are also several cities to explore, including Kamloops and Golden, plus the amazing Harrison Hot Springs and Glacier National Park of Canada.

It's very much a route of two halves, with the first half up to Kamloops feeling quite urban at times (though that comes with the associated amenities, and there are plenty of small towns to stop and explore along the way).

For something more natural and rugged, you could opt to follow our Forest Route which will take you south through Canada and avoids the interstate for scenic roads through North Cascades National Park, Spokane and Coeur d'Alene before reaching a series of National Forests.

You'll have plenty of chances to enjoy the natural wonders of the Pacific Northwest along this route, including visits to Radium Hot Springs and Kootenay National Park. This route is significantly longer and as the attractions are mainly outdoor, it won't be as enjoyable in poor weather.

If you're looking for a cold-weather road trip, then you'd be better off avoiding the above routes and instead following our Winter Route. This option is much longer and sticks to the interstate for most of the way, but it might be a useful backup in case of bad weather.

How to drive from Seattle to Banff

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Seattle and Banff. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The Fast Route

Our Fast Route begins in Seattle on Interstate 5 (I-5) which you'll follow heading north through Everett, Marysville and Mt Vernon. Continue heading north, alongside the stunning North Cascades National Park until you reach WA-542 east at Exit 255.

Follow this road until you cross the border into Canada, whereby the road will become the Trans-Canada Highway/BC-1 at Abbotsford.

Continue on this road past Chilliwack, making a short detour to visit Harrison Hot Springs. Drive through Hope and merge with BC-5 North, stopping for Cascade Recreation Area if you'd like an early hike.

Follow BC-5 North through several smaller towns, before reaching Kamloops, your first major city on this route. Stop here for an overnight rest and to explore the nearby surroundings, before rejoining Trans-Canada Highway/BC-1 East.

The highway will take you alongside the river as you drive by several lakes and through the mountains of Cat Peak and Mt. Odin. Drive through Revelstoke and stop at Mt Revelstoke National Park.

Continue through the mountains, including the stunning Glacier National Park of Canada and the beautiful town of Golden. Other key places on this part of your route include Yoho National Park to Canada and Mt Temple.

Stop at Lake Louise for stunning views of its turquoise water and mountain backdrop, before following Trans-Canada Highway/BC-1 East the rest of the way to your destination of Banff.

The Forest Route

This route takes you further through the US before crossing into Canada. Begin in Seattle on I-5 North through Everett and Marysville, just like the route above. Except this time, you'll need to take Exit 208 and continue east on WA-530.

Follow this road through several towns and the mountains of Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest and Glacier Peak. Pass Rockport and take State Route 20 east through Marblemount and Newhalem.

Stop here to explore North Cascades National Park, then continue on State Route 20 through several more towns before taking WA-153 East and then US-97 North. Change to WA-17 South and then WA-174 East.

When you reach Wilbur, take the left onto US-2 East to Spokane in Washington - a great point for an overnight stop on this route. Continue heading east as you cross into the state of Idaho.

Take Exit 2 and join US-95 North, alongside Kaniksu National Forest. Continue past a few towns before reaching Kingsgate and crossing into British Columbia where the road becomes BC-95.

Continue north, changing to BC-93 past Cranbrook and drive through several pretty Canadian towns and alongside Mt Harrison to Fairmont Hot Springs, Windermere and Radium Hot Springs.

You'll pass through Kootenay National Park, a stunning place for a hike, before following BC-93 across into the province of Alberta and joining the Trans-Canada Highway/AB-1 East to Banff.

The Winter Route

Our ideal winter trip option will see you leave Seattle on Interstate 90 (I-90) East for a large chunk of the drive. You'll pass through Ellensburg and Moses Lake, before reaching Spokane, like the route above an ideal place for an overnight stop.

Continue on I-90 East, stopping at either Idaho Panhandle National Forests or Coeur d'Alene National Forest for a walk or hike. Pass several small towns before crossing into Montana and past Lola National Forest.

Follow the Interstate until you reach US-12 in Garrison at Exit 174. Follow this road east to Helena, a great base for exploring Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest.

Next merge with Interstate 15 (I-15) North, past Cascade and Great Falls and to Coutts, where you'll cross into Canada and the road will become AB-4. Drive north through several towns before taking Crowsnest Highway/AB-3 West in Monarch.

Join AB-2 North, following signs for Calgary before stopping at this great city for a rest or just to explore. Afterwards, you'll join the Trans-Canada Highway/AB-1 West the final stretch to beautiful Banff.

Best places to stop between Seattle and Banff

This beautiful road trip between Seattle and Banff really deserves a few days spent on it, making the most of the stunning scenery along the way. To make it as comfortable as possible, you should plan a couple of overnight stops to break up the driving.

Of all the amazing towns and cities you'll pass through, here are some of our favorites:

Lake views at Sicamous

Ideally located just over halfway on our Fast Route (over 6 hours from Seattle and just 4 hours to Banff), Sicamous is a great base for an overnight rest. While Kamloops is close by, you'll be stunned by the mountain and lake scenery that you'll get in this smaller Canadian town.

Known for its lakeside setting, with beaches, boating and trails aplenty, Sicamous also has a number of nearby attractions worth considering. After taking in the mountaintop views at Sicamous Lookout, you can stretch your legs at Eagle River Nature Park.

If you have the time, make sure to visit the Crazy Creek Suspension Bridge where you'll get a fantastic view of the Crazy Creek Waterfalls which plunge through a beautiful, forested valley or spend the afternoon relaxing at a vineyard where you can sample the areas famous wines.

Given the stunning setting, you'll want a hotel that maximises the incredible views. A stay at the Best Western Sicamous Inn won't disappoint . Just a short walk from the beach, this resort offers spacious rooms, modern decor and a pleasant indoor pool if you hit bad weather.

Its ideal location, close to the centre of this small town and just off Trans-Canada Highway 1, means it's easy to find without adding any distance to your drive. It also has free parking and those all important lake views, so you'll be refreshed and ready for your final day of driving.

A historic stop at Spokane

If you've decided to follow either the Forest or Winter Route to Banff, then Spokane serves as an ideal base as it's just a day's drive from Seattle and a third of the way to Banff.

Spokane in Washington state is one of the biggest towns on these routes, making it a great chance to enjoy some urban vibes before continuing along the slower road to Canada.

Known for its history, with origins as a logging town, which grew first when the railroad arrived and then expanded much more during Canada's gold rush, nowadays visitors can enjoy exploring the Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture and Historic Flight Museum.

There's also a great historic district, known as Browne's Addition, which is famed for its restaurants, bars and independent shops among nineteenth-century homes and buildings.

After a day of exploring, why not book a room at the Hotel Indigo Spokane Downtown ? Situated in a historic building with clever design to carefully combine heritage features and modern style, this downtown hotel is within walking distance of bars and restaurants.

Expect comfortable and spacious rooms with all the amenities you could want, including an onsite bar, brasserie and free parking. You're also just a short walk to Riverfront Park and the famous Knitting Factory, making your location a great base to discover the hidden gems of the city.

A mountain retreat at Banff

Your trip doesn't end when you reach Banff. Surrounded by the Cascade Mountains, you can enjoy a multitude of activities here from skiing to hiking, swimming and canoeing to shopping and enjoying great food.

Banff itself is a popular tourist destination, with its well-equipped Avenue offering boutique shops, restaurants and beautiful hotels. Meanwhile, you're just a short drive from Banff National Park which is an incredible place to explore and enjoy mountain and lakeside views.

Given its popularity, you won't be surprised to learn that there are a great number of fantastic resorts in Banff. But if getting back to nature has been the driving force to your trip, then you simply have to book the Hidden Ridge Resort .

Combining modern comfort with traditional architecture, this hotel is located on the edge of town so you'll be able to escape the tourists and enjoy unspoilt mountain views.

All rooms come with their own kitchen and outdoor barbeque facilities. Most rooms also have balconies, making the most of the stunning views and there's outdoor hot tubs and pools, plus a sauna to enjoy.

With free parking (there's even a free shuttle for guests if you're tired from all the mountain walking) and being just a mile away from Banff Centre, this hotel is the perfect place to finish your road trip whether you're staying for just a day or the whole week!

Things to see on a road trip from Seattle to Banff

With so many places to visit between Seattle and Banff, it could be a little overwhelming to plan which attractions you'd like to visit along the way. To help, we've set out some of the best bits you'll encounter:

The Fast and Forest Routes

• Everett, Washington - Just 30 minutes out of Seattle, you can make a stop here to head out in search of grey whales on Possession Sound. Sea kayaking can also be an option here, depending on the conditions.
• North Cascades National Park - The first of many mountain-related stops on the way out of Seattle, you can hike the trails of the Cascades, or even just make your way part way up Mount Baker by car to enjoy far-reaching views and a walk across its snow-capped plateau (even in summer).
• Banff National Park - The national park centered around your destination, Banff, is so stunning, and holds so many geological clues to the past, that UNESCO has named it a World Heritage Site. Hike, bike or enjoy a scenic drive as you take in the views of the many mountains, lakes and rivers that make up the park.
• Lake Minnewanka - This man-made lake is one of the largest in Canada, with a stunning mountain backdrop and hiking trails. For something a little different, you can try out stand up paddleboarding here, or take the Beer Voyage Cruise, where local craft beers are on offer.

• Abbotsford, British Columbia - Just over the border into Canada, this town in the Fraser Valley is known as the berry capital of Canada. Take a break to explore the mighty Fraser River and the many small towns nearby.
• Harrison Hot Springs - Take to the water at this beautiful lake with mountain views.
• Kamloops, British Columbia - There are hiking trails and multiple ski runs just outside the city, but in case you're saving your hiking boots for later in your trip, you could also head past Kamloops Lake to visit the impressive clay hoodoos (similar to Bryce Canyon in the US).
• Salmon Arm, British Columbia - Launch a canoe onto Shuswap Lake or head over to one of the wineries in the nearby area for some liquid refreshment.
• Sicamous, British Columbia - Head up to Sicamous Lookout, a wooden platform originally built for hang gliding enthusiasts. Even if you're not up for launching yourself off the mountaintop, you'll catch fantastic views.
• Revelstoke, British Columbia - You'll find Revelstoke among a temperate rainforest which is home to wildlife including caribou, grizzly bears and mountain lions! From here you can go white water rafting on the Illecillewaet River. It's also the entry point to Mt Revelstoke National Park.
• Glacier National Park of Canada - Take your pick of hiking trails in one of British Columbia's National Parks – there are over 1,300 km of trails here, with the routes out to waterfalls being particularly impressive.
• Lake Louise - Once you've finished soaking in the views over the lake's turquoise waters, you can head up to explore nearby Victoria Glacier.

• Spokane, Washington - Talk a stroll through the historic Browne's Addition district before learning more about the history and culture of the region at the Museum of Arts & Culture.
• Coeur d'Alene, Idaho - As well as being an entry point to more stunning outdoor areas, this waterside city is home to several galleries and the informative Museum of North Idaho.
• Idaho Panhandle National Forests - Mile after mile of riverside forests create a lush and inviting area to explore on foot, by bike or over the water.
• Radium Hot Springs - Situated in Kootenay National Park, these natural springs offer a relaxing and, according to some, healing experience.
• Spokane, Washington - Same as with the Forest Route.
• Missoula, Montana - The riverside location of this on the edge of the Rockies means you can kayak right through the downtown area, before enjoying food and drink at one of the characterful bars and restaurants.
• Helena, Montana - The so-called “Queen City” of the Rockies has a historic downtown district which includes Montana's State Capitol as well as St Helena cathedral.
• Calgary, Alberta - Visit Heritage Park Historical Village or the Glenbow Museum before starting out on the last stretch of your drive.

Best time to go on a road trip from Seattle to Banff

The drive from Seattle to Banff is a year-round trip, though the best time to travel will depend on personal preference. For example, if you don't like snow or winter sports, then there are definitely certain months you should avoid.

Banff is cold in winter. Temperatures rarely make it higher than 28 degrees Fahrenheit and regularly fall as low as 7 degrees Fahrenheit. There's also regular and plentiful snow which starts to fall in November and can stick around until April.

Both the Fast and Forest Routes take you through British Columbia, where snow tyres are a legal requirement from October onwards, so make sure your vehicle complies before setting out. If you're picking up a rental in Seattle, you might have to request this as an extra.

If you enjoy winter sports, you'll be rewarded with some of Canada's best slopes when you arrive at Banff, with well-equipped resorts and runs. The stunning setting makes this a very popular ski resort, so accommodation prices will rise accordingly at peak times through the season.

In comparison, Banff experiences relatively cool summers, with temperatures maxing out at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the potential for some pretty chilly nighttime temperatures due to its high altitudes. There's also the chance of rain from May to August.

The stunning location means that the area around Banff attracts many visitors through the summer months, with accommodation prices increasing accordingly. Lakes and attractions near the town can also become busy.

Another option could be to travel in either spring or fall. If you're after a scenic drive with good road conditions, then late April or May could be a great time to schedule your trip.

There are a few festivals you could consider timing your trip with, notably the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival (late Oct/early Nov) and the Ice Magic Ice Carving Competition held in late January on Lake Louise, which will be a marvellous sight to behold!

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Seattle To Banff Road Trip: Top 18 Tips

Traveling from Seattle to Banff is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA and Canada . The 634 miles of a road trip from Seattle to Banff takes around 10 hours and 44 mins of driving without stops.

This article includes 18 top tips that turn your Seattle to Banff drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from Seattle to Banff, take your coffee and keep reading!

Table of Contents

6 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From Seattle To Banff

On the way from Seattle to Banff, you may want to stay at some points on the way. Here are the top six hotels on the Seattle – Banff route!

• Hotel Windrow: Hotel Windrow is one of the best hotels where you can stay on a road trip from Seattle to Banff. Driving from Seattle to Hotel Windrow might take around 1 hour and 46 mins . Hotel Windrow features 59 well-appointed, high-tech guest rooms in Historic Downtown Ellensburg. The hotel also features an exceptional Basalt restaurant and craft cocktail lounge at the base of the atrium lobby. Check the Hotel Windrow, one of the best hotels in Ellensburg, Washington, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.
• Comfort Suites Moses Lake: Another top hotel where you can choose the stay on the road trip to Banff from Seattle is Comfort Suites Moses Lake. Located in Moses Lake, Washington, the hotel is 179 miles away from Seattle, and it would take 2 hours and 47 mins to drive. Located near several popular destinations and tourist attractions, this all-suites hotel is convenient for an enjoyable stay. This pet-friendly hotel also has a heated pool and whirlpool, which are perfect for relaxing after a hard day of work or exploring the area. If you want to learn more about the Comfort Suites Moses Lake, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com .
• Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane: Didn’t our first two hotel suggestions interest you? So we would like to introduce you to the Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane. Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane is located in Spokane, Washington, and it’s 280 miles away from Seattle. You can arrive there in 4 hours and 16 mins of non-stop driving. The Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane is situated along the Spokane River near Riverfront Park and Downtown Spokane shopping and businesses. It is well-equipped to handle all your travel needs, whether traveling for business or looking for a relaxing getaway. Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane for more information.
• The Roosevelt Inn: If you are taking the road trip from Seattle to Banff Coeur d’Alene, Idaho is must have a place you should visit. Plus, The Roosevelt Inn is one of the best hotels in town. It is The Roosevelt Inn, 311 miles from Seattle, and it would take 4 hours and 44 mins to drive. The Roosevelt Inn is a historic Coeur d’Alene inn with 14 rooms and suites. All rooms have queen or king beds and private baths. The inn is just a few blocks from the lake, waterfront activities, and downtown dining. If you need more info about the price and availability of The Roosevelt Inn, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.
• Talus Rock Retreat: Our next hotel is Talus Rock Retreat, Sandpoint, Idaho. It will take 5 hours, and 37 mins of car ride o reach this hotel from Seattle. Tucked away in a private and secluded location, Talus Rock Retreat is the perfect getaway for those who appreciate nature and old-world charm. The retreat features a timber frame and Tuscan-style design, providing guests with an elegant and picturesque setting. Guests can enjoy the peace of the retreat, surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Check the Talus Rock Retreat on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Talus Rock Retreat for reviews, prices, and availability.
• L’Hermitage Hotel, Invermere: Another hotel you can accommodate on the road trip from Seattle to Banff is L’Hermitage Hotel, Invermere. It’s possible to arrive at this hotel in Invermere, British Columbia, within 9 hours drive from Seattle. The L’Hermitage Hotel Vancouver is a 60-room luxury boutique property. It features unique architecture within a West Coast setting, vogue interior design, and thoughtful amenities. This makes it the perfect cosmopolitan getaway. Before making the reservation, we suggest you read the latest reviews on TripAdvisor and Booking.com .

In this part, we explained six different hotels you can stay at on the road trip from Seattle to Banff. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by writing a comment to this post. It will help people who will take the same Seattle to Banff route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from Seattle to Banff. We have six restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

6 Best Restaurants On The Seattle To Banff Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your Seattle to Banff road trip. In this section, we list the six different restaurants to dine at on the road trip from Seattle to Banff. Stay hungry and enjoy!

• Ellensburg Pasta Company: We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on the road trip from Seattle to Banff with Ellensburg Pasta Company. Ellensburg Pasta Company is located in Ellensburg, Washington, 108 miles from Seattle. It would take 1 hour and 46 mins of driving. Ellensburg Pasta Company is a popular choice for lunch and dinner among Ellensburg restaurants, thanks to its excellent service, fresh entrees, and genuine hospitality. For more information about Ellensburg Pasta Company, you can visit the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of Ellensburg Pasta Company.
• Michael’s on the Lake, Moses Lake: Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Banff from Seattle is Michael’s on the Lake, Moses Lake. Located in Moses Lake, Washington, Michael’s on the Lake, Moses Lake is 177 miles from Seattle and would take 2 hours and 45 mins of driving. If you’re looking for fresh seafood, flavorful Certified Angus steaks, premium beer, and wine selections from the Northwest, Michaels on the Lake is the perfect choice for any night out. Whether you want to view Parker Horn on a hot day with a cold microbrew or looking for a hot drink on a chilly night in our beautifully appointed dining room, Michaels on the Lake will exceed your expectations. If you want to learn more about Michael’s on the Lake, Moses Lake, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Frank’s Diner, Spokane: Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Frank’s Diner, Spokane. It will take 4 hours and 13 mins of car drive to take 278 miles from Seattle to Frank’s Diner, Spokane. The Presidential Car Diner has a long and storied history dating back over 100 years. The car was initially manufactured in 1906 as an observation car but was later converted into a diner car by Jack Knight in 1931. Today, the diner is proud to continue its tradition of dining excellence and welcomes you to come and enjoy a meal with you. For more information, you can check Frank’s Diner, Spokane, on TripAdvisor or Google M .
• Fire Pizza, Coeur d’Alene: Fire Pizza, Coeur d’Alene deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. The soups and salads are delicious, but the pizza is even better! The service is friendly and prompt. Fire Pizza, Coeur d’Alene, is 311 miles away from Seattle, and it would take 4 hours and 46 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about Fire Pizza, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Baxters On Cedar: If you enjoy dining, Baxters On Cedar would be an excellent choice in Sandpoint, Idaho. It’s 349 miles from Seattle and would take 5 hours and 31 mins of car driving. Baxters on Cedar is a pub that serves American cuisine using fresh local ingredients whenever possible. If you want to learn more about the Baxters On Cedar, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps .
• Birchwood Restaurant, Invermere: Another restaurant we recommend you visit on the road trip from Seattle to Banff is Birchwood Restaurant, Invermere, Invermere, British Columbia. It will take 9 hours of driving to reach Birchwood Restaurant, Invermere, from Seattle. Birchwood Restaurant offers a mountain casual dining experience for adults, with a unique and relaxing outdoor patio and outside atrium in the winter. They offer various seasonal menu options and can cater to dietary requirements. For more information about Birchwood Restaurant, Invermere, you can check the TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of the restaurant.

This section lists our six restaurant recommendations for you to eat on your road trip from Seattle to Banff. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 634 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a Banff road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from Seattle to Banff. Keep reading.

6 Places To Visit On The Seattle To Banff Drive

A unique experience awaits you in Banff. However, on your road trip, there are also some unique destinations, like Ellensburg, Washington. Therefore, we want to exTherefore when the top six destinations we recommend on the Banff route.

• Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center: Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center will be the first destination we recommend stopping by on your Seattle to Banff road trip. Located in Ellensburg, Washington, Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center is 130 miles away from Seattle, and it would take 2 hours and 13 mins to, however, when. But, when the wind is blowing and the rotors are turning, driving among the wind towers is an uncanny and strangely disorienting experience you won’t soon forget. If you want to learn more about the Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• Moses Lake Museum & Art Center: Moses Lake Museum & Art Center, Moses Lake, Washington, is one of the destinations we recommend you stop on the Seattle to Banff route. It’s 178 miles from Seattle, and it’ll take about 2 hours and 48 mins of driving. The Moses Lake Museum & Art Center is dedicated to exploring the human and natural history of the Columbia Basin and celebrating the works of regional artists. The museum is home to the Adam East Collection of Native American artifacts, local historical exhibits, a fine art gallery, a museum store, and a giant Columbian Mammoth metal sculpture. Admission is free. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. If you want to learn more about Moses Lake Museum & Art Center, you can check it on TripAdvisor or their website .
• Manito Park: One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from Seattle to Banff is Spokane, Washington. And if you visit Spokane, Washington, we suggest you visit Manito Park. You can arrive at Manito Park after 4 hours and 16 mins of driving. Established in April 1904, Manito Park has evolved from an undeveloped recreational area to one of Spokane’s primary showplaces. The Parks and Recreation Department maintains 78 acres of native and cultivated landscape and 20 acres of world-class botanical gardens. You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Manito Park for more information.
• Coeur d’Alene Lake: Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit Coeur d’Alene Lake, Coeur d’Alene, on the Seattle to Banff road trip. Coeur d’Alene Lake is 322 miles from Seattle, and you can arrive there after the 4 hours and 59 mins of drive. Lake Coeur d’Alene is supplied by waters from three different rivers, making it a pristine destination for some water-based activities. Many cruise options are available to visitors, including daily scenic cruises, charter cruises, and holiday cruises. This is a great way to enjoy the lake with family and friends. In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of Coeur d’Alene Lake before going there.
• Schweitzer: Located in Sandpoint, Idaho, Schweitzer ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from Seattle to Banff. You must take 5 hours and 54 mins of driving to arrive at Schweitzer. Schweitzer is a family-friendly resort in the Pacific Northwest that is independently owned. Many consider it the best skiing in Idaho. The summer season at Schweitzer is robust, with miles of hiking, mountain biking trails, and various other activities. This makes it the hub for outdoor recreation in the area. If you want to learn more about Schweitzer, you can check it on TripAdvisor or the official website .
• James Chabot Provincial Park: Another attraction you can visit on the road trip from Seattle to Banff is James Chabot Provincial Park, Invermere, British Columbia. James Chabot Provincial Park is 544 miles from Seattle, and it would take 9 hours to drive. Lake is lovely and shallow and has quite warm water. Be sure to bring swim shoes or flip-flops as the bottom of the lake is rocky. The lake has a washroom and lovely shady areas to escape the sun. For more information about James Chabot Provincial Park, you can check their TripAdvisor page or official website .

FAQ of the Road Trip From Seattle to Banff

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the Seattle to Banff drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From Seattle To Banff?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the Seattle to Banff road trip takes approximately 10 hours and 44 mins to drive. The driving distance between Seattle to Banff is 634 miles.
• If you want to make the Seattle to Banff road trip by bike , the time you spend on the road will be two days and 10 hours .
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the Seattle-Banff route, you will have to walk for nine days and 2 hours .

Where Do You Stop On Driving From Seattle To Banff?

There are many beautiful pit stops along the way to Banff. You can visit Ellensburg, Washington; Moses Lake, Washington; Spokane, Washington; Coeur d’Alene, Idaho; Sandpoint, Idaho; Invermere, British Columbia. Here we list six places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the Seattle to Banff journey, you can check the 6 Best Places To Visit On The Way From Seattle To Banff part.

• Wild Horse Renewable Energy Center: 130 miles / 2 hours and 13 mins to drive from Seattle | 515 miles / 8 hours and 59 mins of driving to Banff.
• Moses Lake Museum & Art Center: 178 miles / 2 hours and 48 mins to drive from Seattle | 460 miles / 8 hours of driving to Banff.
• Manito Park: 280 miles / 4 hours and 16 mins to drive from Seattle | 357 miles / 6 hours and 39 mins of driving to Banff.
• Coeur d’Alene Lake: 322 miles / 4 hours and 59 mins to drive from Seattle | 341 miles / 6 hours and 26 mins of driving to Banff.
• Schweitzer: 361 miles / 5 hours and 54 mins to drive from Seattle | 292 miles / 5 hours and 29 mins of driving to Banff.
• James Chabot Provincial Park: 544 miles / 9 hours to drive from Seattle | 151 miles / 1 hour and 49 mins of driving to Banff.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From Seattle To Banff?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from Seattle to Banff. We have selected six hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 6 Best Hotels On The Way To Banff From Seattle section.

• Hotel Windrow: 107 miles / 1 hour and 46 mins to drive from Seattle | 528 miles / 9 hours of driving to Banff.
• Comfort Suites Moses Lake: 179 miles / 2 hours and 47 mins to drive from Seattle | 457 miles / 8 hours of driving to Banff.
• Oxford Suites Downtown Spokane: 280 miles / 4 hours and 16 mins to drive from Seattle | 356 miles / 6 hours and 38 mins of driving to Banff.
• The Roosevelt Inn: 311 miles / 4 hours and 44 mins to drive from Seattle | 331 miles / 6 hours and 11 mins of driving to Banff.
• Talus Rock Retreat: 351 miles / 5 hours and 37 mins to drive from Seattle | 288 miles / 5 hours and 23 mins of driving to Banff.
• L’Hermitage Hotel, Invermere: 544 miles / 9 hours to drive from Seattle | 152 miles / 1 hour and 50 mins of driving to Banff.

Where To Eat Between Seattle to Banff?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your Seattle to Banff drive, you can consider the six restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 6 Best Restaurants On The Way From Seattle To Banff .

• Ellensburg Pasta Company: 108 miles / 1 hour and 46 mins to drive from Seattle | 528 miles / 9 hours of driving to Banff.
• Michael’s on the Lake, Moses Lake: 177 miles / 2 hours and 45 mins to drive from Seattle | 462 miles / 8 hours of driving to Banff.
• Frank’s Diner, Spokane: 278 miles / 4 hours and 13 mins to drive from Seattle | 357 miles / 6 hours and 37 mins of driving to Banff.
• Fire Pizza, Coeur d’Alene: 311 miles / 4 hours and 46 mins to drive from Seattle | 332 miles / 6 hours and 13 mins of driving to Banff.
• Baxters On Cedar: 349 miles / 5 hours and 31 mins to drive from Seattle | 286 miles / 5 hours and 18 mins of driving to Banff.
• Birchwood Restaurant, Invermere: 545 miles / 9 hours to drive from Seattle | 152 miles / 1 hour and 52 mins of driving to Banff.

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from Seattle to Banff. We have listed six hotels, six restaurants, and six places to visit on the Seattle to Banff drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from Seattle to Banff as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken a road trip from Seattle to Banff? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from Seattle to Banff and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.

Video: Banff Road Trip – Travel Guide

This video includes an extensive travel guide about Banff. We suggest you to check it out before planning your Banff road trip.

Other Road Trips Worth Your Attention

• Seattle To Sacramento Road Trip: Breath-taking Views
• Seattle To Salt Lake City Road Trip: The Unforgettable Adventure
• Seattle To Phoenix Road Trip: Unbelievable Views

Hi, I'm Ece. Join me in navigating memorable road trips around the USA, Europe, and Australia. I provide valuable tips and destination guides, sometimes enhanced by AI. Let's hit the road and make memories!

2 thoughts on “Seattle To Banff Road Trip: Top 18 Tips”

Hi, just want to check if it’s possible to drive along the above route during OCT? Will there be snowing and if snow tyres are needed?

Thank you for your excellent question! October is generally considered a “shoulder season” for travel from Seattle to Banff. While you may encounter some snow, especially as you get closer to Banff, significant snowfall that would make driving difficult is less common in October compared to the winter months.

However, weather conditions can be quite unpredictable. Snow tires are not mandated by law for October, but they are strongly recommended for safer driving. If you’re not traveling with snow tires, it would be wise to at least carry chains and know how to use them. Additionally, make sure to keep an eye on the weather forecasts and adjust your travel plans accordingly.

If you’re comfortable driving in potentially icy or snowy conditions and are prepared with the right equipment, the October journey from Seattle to Banff can be absolutely beautiful, with fewer tourists and a chance to see the fall foliage transitioning into a winter wonderland.

Safe travels and feel free to reach out with any more questions!

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Seattle-to-Banff 7 Day Road-trip Itinerary

O Canada… One of my favorite parts about living in Seattle is the accessibility to our gorgeous neighbors up north. Growing up, we used to take road trips to Vancouver once or twice a year to feast on delicious dim sum and Chinese food (which puts Seattle Chinese food to shame). In college, my friends and I started taking an annual ski trip to Whistler, which to this day is still one of my favorite traditions. Banff has always been high on my list of places to go, but I had never done a real roadtrip this long so I procrastinated planning until last fall! We did the whole drive of Seattle-to-Banff and back in 7-days, and it was such a fun way to explore more of Western Canada! 

Since this trip was the same year I travelled to Patagonia, I was fairly money-conscious while planning. Luckily I was able to drive my own car (my poor baby Prius), and we decided to stay in budget-friendly Airbnbs the whole way, so it was a really nice way to take a full vacation without breaking the bank! 

While this isn’t a fully baked itinerary, I wanted to share our general driving route, places to stay, eating locations, and activity ideas for those of you looking to plan a similar roadtrip in the future!

8 am – Leave Seattle

4 hour drive

12 pm – Explore Hells Gate

• Explore and Lunch – Salmon chowder

1 pm – Leave for Salmon Arm

3.5 hours hour drive

6pm – Dinner in Salmon Arm at Aquatico Bay Steak & Seafood menu

Over night in salmon arm: Airbnb  

9 am – Leave for Banff area

3.5 hour drive

Buy park passes here: https://www.banfflakelouise.com/parks-pass-online

12 pm – Yoho National Park. Below are all separate, will need to drive to each:

• Emerald Lake: can drive to
• Lake O’Hara (sounds hard to get to in a day so unlikely)
• Wapta Falls: 4.7km out and back; furthest away from others but on the way, want to start here
• Takakkaw Falls: 1.6km out and back

30-60 min drive

7 pm -Overnight in Banff area: Hotel

5 am (sunrise) – Lake Louise

Hike up to the Teahouse

12 pm – Moraine Lake

• Moraine Lake Lodge Canoe
• Rockpile trail Moraine Lake (40 min, lower end of parking lot)
• Late Lunch at the Fairmont (Lake Louise) 

Driving through Banff area

• Peyto Lake – quick 3.8 mile hike
• Spiral Tunnel view point on drive back to air bnb

Overnight in Banff area Airbnb (glamping): Airbnb Pre download map and know how to get here, as there’s spotty service in this area!

Glacier National Park

• Avalanche Lake (trail of cedars) or Hidden Lake overlook 
• Columbia Wetlands

Overnight in Banff area Airbnb (glamping): Airbnb

Morning exploring the Banff area

12 pm – Leave for Kamloops 

~4 hour drive 

7pm – Dinner & overnight in Kamloops

• Pioneer park beach 
• Rent bikes around the town
• Paul Lake paddling on the way to kamloops if we leave early enough 

Dinner: Sushi: menu  

Overnight in Kamloops: Airbnb  

9 am – Leave for Whistler

4 hour drive – Kalei

1 pm – Afternoon in Whistler

• Walking through the Olympic village
• Bike tour depending on how body feels
• Peak 2 Peak Gondola

Lunch: Peaked Pies: Menu  

Overnight in Whistler at the Aava Whistler Hotel: Hotel

10 am – Leave Whistler

2 hour drive

12 pm – Stop in Vancouver for lunch

• Granville Island
• Stanley Park Seawall
• Dim Sum in Chinatown

3 pm – Leave Vancouver

3 hour drive

6 pm – Get back to Seattle

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• United States

Seattle to Banff Road Trip: Your Ultimate Guide

• 2 August 2023

Looking for an exciting road trip that takes you through the beautiful landscapes of Seattle and Banff? Look no further! This 600-mile journey is the perfect way to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada.

Starting in Seattle, you’ll head north on the I-5, making your way towards the border with Canada. Once you cross over, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies and the stunning Banff National Park. With plenty of stops along the way, including Kamloops, Revelstoke, Spokane, Calgary, and Missoula, this road trip is sure to be an unforgettable adventure.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and hit the road!

Planning Your Seattle to Banff Road Trip

Best time to travel.

The best time to take a road trip from Seattle to Banff is during the summer months of June through August. The weather is mild, and the days are longer, allowing more time for sightseeing. However, keep in mind that this is peak season, so expect higher prices and crowds. Fall and spring offer fewer crowds and lower prices, but the weather can be unpredictable. Winter can be a beautiful time to visit, but be prepared for snow and icy road conditions.

Essential Items to Pack

When packing for your road trip, be sure to bring warm clothes, comfortable shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery. Don’t forget to pack snacks, water, and a first aid kit. If traveling in the winter, bring tire chains and a shovel in case of snow.

Driving Route and Distance

The driving distance from Seattle to Banff is approximately 600 miles, and the drive takes around 11 hours. The route takes you through Kamloops, Revelstoke, Spokane, Calgary, and Missoula, with stops at Great Falls, Kootenay National Park, North Cascades National Park, Lake Louise, and Glacier National Park. Take I-5 North to WA-542 East to BC-1 East, then take Crowsnest Highway/BC-3 East to Banff.

Before embarking on your road trip, check road conditions and weather forecasts. Make sure your vehicle is in good condition, and fill up on gas and supplies before leaving. Plan your itinerary ahead of time, but allow for flexibility in case of unexpected detours or delays. Finally, enjoy the journey and take in the breathtaking scenery along the way.

Seattle: The Start of the Journey

Places to Visit in Seattle

Seattle is a vibrant city with a lot to offer visitors. Some must-visit attractions include the iconic Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass museum. If you’re a coffee lover, be sure to visit the original Starbucks location in Pike Place Market.

For a more scenic experience, take a stroll through the beautiful Washington Park Arboretum or explore the Olympic Sculpture Park.

Accommodations in Seattle

Seattle has a variety of accommodations to choose from, whether you’re looking for a hotel or an Airbnb. Some popular hotels include the luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Seattle and the trendy Thompson Seattle. For a more budget-friendly option, check out the Ace Hotel Seattle or the Hotel Theodore. If you’re looking for a unique experience, consider staying in an Airbnb, where you can find everything from cozy apartments to houseboats on Lake Union.

Seattle also has a great food scene, with plenty of restaurants to choose from. Some must-try spots include the seafood -focused Elliott’s Oyster House, the farm-to-table cuisine at Sitka and Spruce, and the delicious pizza at Serious Pie. No matter where you choose to stay or eat in Seattle, you’re sure to have a great start to your road trip to Banff.

Exploring the Pacific Northwest

If you’re planning a Seattle to Banff road trip, the Pacific Northwest is a must-see destination. This region is known for its stunning natural beauty, with picturesque landscapes and charming small towns at every turn.

Stopovers in Washington State

One of the highlights of the Pacific Northwest is Washington State, which is home to a number of incredible destinations. Bellingham is a popular stopover for travelers, thanks to its beautiful waterfront and charming downtown area. Ellensburg is another great option, with its historic buildings and proximity to the stunning Snoqualmie Pass.

Idaho: A Scenic Detour

While not technically part of the Pacific Northwest, Idaho is a great place to visit on your road trip from Seattle to Banff. The state is home to a number of scenic drives, including the Payette River Scenic Byway and the Salmon River Scenic Byway. Be sure to stop in Spokane, which is known for its beautiful parks and vibrant downtown area.

Whether you’re exploring Washington State or taking a scenic detour through Idaho, the Pacific Northwest is full of incredible destinations that are sure to make your Seattle to Banff road trip unforgettable.

Travelling Through British Columbia

Highlights of Vancouver

Your road trip from Seattle to Banff will take you through the stunning province of British Columbia. Vancouver, the largest city in BC, is a must-see destination on your journey. Take a stroll through Stanley Park, visit the Granville Island Public Market, and explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

For foodies, Vancouver has a plethora of restaurants serving up fresh seafood and local cuisine. Stay at one of the many hotels in the city, like the Fairmont Pacific Rim or the Rosewood Hotel Georgia.

Nature’s Bounty in Hope

As you drive east, you’ll come across the charming town of Hope, BC. Surrounded by mountains and forests, Hope is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the province. Take a hike in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park, or fish for salmon in the Fraser River. For a unique dining experience, check out 293 Wallace Restaurant, which serves up delicious farm-to-table cuisine.

The Charm of Kamloops

Further east, you’ll reach Kamloops, a city known for its rugged landscape and outdoor activities. Take a scenic drive through the Kamloops Lake Provincial Park, or hike up the Kenna Cartwright Park Trail. For a taste of local culture, check out the Kamloops Art Gallery or the Secwepemc Museum and Heritage Park. Stay at one of the many hotels in Kamloops, like the Delta Hotels Kamloops or the Sandman Signature Kamloops Hotel.

That’s just a taste of what British Columbia has to offer on your road trip from Seattle to Banff. Whether you’re looking for stunning natural beauty or delicious local cuisine, BC has it all.

Entering the Canadian Rockies

Experiencing golden.

As you enter the Canadian Rockies, the town of Golden is a must-visit destination. Nestled between the Rocky and Purcell Mountains, Golden is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can experience the thrill of whitewater rafting, mountain biking, or hiking in the surrounding wilderness. Wildlife lovers can spot grizzly bears, elk, and moose in the nearby Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.

The Beauty of Revelstoke

As you continue your journey, you will come across the charming town of Revelstoke. Known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities, Revelstoke is a great place to stop and explore. You can take a gondola ride to the top of Mount Revelstoke National Park for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The town is also home to the Revelstoke Railway Museum, which showcases the history of the Canadian Pacific Railway.

Stops at Salmon Arm and Vernon

As you make your way towards Banff, make sure to stop at Salmon Arm and Vernon. These towns offer a glimpse into the laid-back lifestyle of the Canadian Rockies. You can explore the local farmer’s markets, sample delicious food, and take in the beautiful scenery. If you are interested in history, visit the Salmon Arm Museum and Heritage Association or the O’Keefe Ranch in Vernon.

In conclusion, the journey from Seattle to Banff is a road trip like no other. As you enter the Canadian Rockies, you will be surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, wildlife, and outdoor activities. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, this road trip has something for everyone.

Exploring Banff and Surrounding Areas

Attractions in Banff

Banff is a charming town located in the heart of Banff National Park. Visitors can take a stroll down Banff Avenue, which is lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. The Banff Gondola offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The Banff Hot Springs are a popular attraction, featuring natural hot springs that are rich in minerals.

Visiting Lake Louise

Lake Louise is one of the most iconic destinations in Banff National Park. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the lake or hike the nearby Rockpile Trail for stunning views of the turquoise waters. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise offers luxurious accommodations and dining options. For a more adventurous experience, visitors can hike to the nearby Moraine Lake or Peyto Lake.

Discovering Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park is located just west of Banff National Park and is known for its stunning waterfalls and mountain hikes. Visitors can explore the Wapta Falls or Takakkaw Falls, which are both easily accessible from the main road. The Emerald Lake is another popular destination, offering scenic canoeing and hiking options. The nearby Teahouse offers a unique dining experience with stunning views of the lake.

Overall, Banff and the surrounding areas offer a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. From scenic drives to mountain hikes, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the local wildlife, including bears, elk, and moose.

Accommodations and Dining in Banff

Hotels in banff.

Banff is home to a wide range of hotels that cater to all budgets. For those looking for a luxurious stay, the Fairmont Banff Springs is a great option. This hotel boasts stunning views of the mountains and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options.

For those on a budget, the Banff International Hostel is a great option. This hostel offers affordable accommodations and is located in the heart of Banff, making it easy to explore the town and surrounding area.

Restaurants in Banff

Banff has a diverse food scene with options for all tastes and budgets. For those looking for a fine dining experience, the Eden Restaurant at the Rimrock Resort Hotel is a great choice. This restaurant offers stunning views of the mountains and serves up a range of delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

For a more casual dining experience, The Bison Restaurant is a great option. This restaurant specializes in Canadian cuisine and offers a range of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant also has a cozy atmosphere and is a great place to relax after a day of exploring Banff.

Overall, Banff is a great destination for those looking for a mix of outdoor activities, stunning scenery, and great dining options. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or an affordable hostel, Banff has something for everyone.

Beyond Banff: Alberta and More

Visiting Calgary

Calgary is a vibrant city with plenty to see and do. If you’re a fan of winter sports, be sure to check out Canada Olympic Park, which hosted the 1988 Winter Olympics. The park offers skiing, snowboarding, and even bobsledding. For a more laid-back experience, head to Prince’s Island Park, which hosts several festivals throughout the year and offers a scenic escape from the city.

Exploring Alberta’s Other Attractions

Alberta is home to many other attractions besides Banff National Park. If you’re looking for adventure, head to Jasper National Park, where you can go whitewater rafting, hiking, or even take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway. If you’re interested in history, check out the Royal Tyrrell Museum in Drumheller, which is home to one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur fossils.

In Edmonton, you can visit the West Edmonton Mall, which is the largest shopping mall in North America and has an indoor amusement park, water park, and even a miniature golf course. For a more cultural experience, head to the Art Gallery of Alberta, which showcases contemporary and historical art from around the world.

No matter what your interests are, there’s something for everyone in Alberta. So why not extend your road trip and explore all that this beautiful province has to offer?

Returning to Seattle

Possible stops on the return journey.

If you’re driving back to Seattle from Banff, there are plenty of amazing sights and attractions to see along the way. Here are a few possible stops to consider:

• Kamloops : Located in British Columbia, Kamloops is a great place to stop for a meal or a quick break. The city has a variety of restaurants and cafes to choose from, as well as parks and trails to explore.
• Spokane : This Washington city is home to Riverfront Park, an urban park with a carousel, a gondola ride, and the Spokane Falls SkyRide. There are also plenty of shops and restaurants in the downtown area.
• Coeur d’Alene : Located in Idaho, this city is home to Lake Coeur d’Alene, a beautiful lake with plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. There are also several golf courses and resorts in the area.
• Seattle : Of course, you’ll eventually end up back in Seattle. Make sure to take some time to explore the city’s famous landmarks, such as the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Don’t forget to bring your passport if you’re crossing the border into Canada!

No matter which stops you choose to make on your return journey, you’re sure to have an unforgettable road trip from Seattle to Banff and back again.

In conclusion, a road trip from Seattle to Banff is a fantastic way to explore the beautiful scenery of the Pacific Northwest and Canadian Rockies. With a total drive time of approximately 11 hours, this trip can be completed comfortably in a single day or spread out over several days to allow for more exploration.

Traveling by car allows for flexibility and the ability to stop at various points of interest along the way. From the bustling city of Seattle to the stunning natural beauty of Banff National Park, this road trip offers a diverse range of experiences.

Whether you’re a US or Canadian resident, this road trip is a great opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes that both countries have to offer. Plus, with the trip being completed in 2017, you can be sure that the information and recommendations provided are up-to-date and relevant.

Overall, a road trip from Seattle to Banff is a must-do for anyone looking to explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest and Canadian Rockies. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most scenic route from seattle to banff.

The most scenic route from Seattle to Banff is the one that takes you through North Cascades National Park, Kootenay National Park, and Glacier National Park. This route offers breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and lakes.

Where should I stop between Seattle and Banff?

Some of the must-see stops between Seattle and Banff include Kamloops, Revelstoke, Spokane, Calgary, Missoula, Great Falls, Lake Louise, and Golden. These places offer a variety of attractions, such as national parks, hot springs, and scenic drives.

How many days should you go to Banff?

To fully experience Banff, you should plan to spend at least 3-4 days in the area. This will give you enough time to explore the national park, hike, and take in the stunning scenery.

What is the best time of year to drive to Banff?

The best time of year to drive to Banff is during the summer months, from June to September. This is when the weather is the warmest and the days are the longest. However, keep in mind that this is also the busiest time of year, so expect crowds and higher prices.

Seattle to Banff distance

The distance from Seattle to Banff is approximately 634 miles, which takes around 10 hours and 44 minutes of driving without stops.

Seattle to Banff and Jasper

If you have more time, consider extending your trip to include Jasper National Park as well. The drive from Banff to Jasper is only about 3 hours and offers even more stunning scenery and outdoor activities.

In this article:

Post written by: Jay Y

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Seattle To Banff: 10 Things To Know About This Mountain Vacation Road Trip

The road trip from Seattle to Banff is full of incredible views and unique cities, but there are plenty of things to consider before getting started.

• The Seattle to Banff road trip offers stunning views of forests, urban areas, and mountains, making it one of the most scenic North American road trips.
• There are multiple routes to consider, with the fastest route taking about 11 hours, a slightly windier route with beautiful forests taking about 13.5 hours, and a longer route for winter travelers taking about 17 hours.
• Travelers should remember to bring their passports, as border crossings between the US and Canada are required. Additionally, there are numerous national parks and hiking trails to explore along the way, and the road trip typically takes about one week to fully enjoy.

Road trips are an enormously popular vacation around the world. Given the sheer size of North America, road trips are often one of the best ways to see the best of what the continent has to offer. While there are a number of can’t-miss road trip stops on a US cross-country road trip , there are even more unique destinations to explore by going international.

The Seattle to Banff road trip is perhaps one of the most scenic North American road trips, exploring the forests, unique urban areas, and mountain views to compete with even the best mountain vacations in the US . Considering the wide variety of options when it comes to driving this one-of-a-kind trip, there is plenty to consider before getting in the car.

From potential routes to major stops, here are several things to consider when planning a road trip from Seattle, Washington to Banff, Canada.

10 Incredible, Bucket-List Vacations To Take In Banff National Park

10 the fastest route takes 11 hours to get from seattle to banff.

Those hoping to minimize the drive time from Seattle to Banff can take the 600-mile route that starts by following I-5 North to WA-542. After crossing the border into Canada, travelers merge onto BC-5 before merging onto the Trans-Canada Highway all the way to Banff.

A straightforward drive, this quick route can be completed in as little as 11 hours. However, considering the drive passes through three different national parks, North Cascades National Park, Glacier National Park of Canada, and Yoho National Park of Canada, there is no doubt that even this fast route will take extra time to explore.

About the Quick Route From Seattle to Banff

• Distance: ~600 miles
• Time: ~11 hours
• Major Stops: North Cascades National Park, Glacier National Park of Canada, Yoho National Park of Canada, Everett, Marysville, Mt Vernon, Lake Louise

9 Outdoor Lovers Can Take A Slightly Windier Driving Route From Seattle To Banff

If time and distance isn’t too restrictive, outdoor lovers can opt for a slightly longer drive between Seattle and Banff that cuts right through some of the most beautiful forests in Canada. While road trip travelers still start on I-5, they will quickly veer east across Washington to Spokane. From here, travelers will make their way north through the narrow strip of Idaho before crossing into Canada on US-95. Merging onto BC-93 towards the final destination.

This route is ideal for those who want to enjoy the smaller towns in Washington and Canada. The real draw of this route, however, is the stunning views of Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, North Cascades National Park, Kaniksu National Forest, and Kootenay National Park, all of which can be enjoyed right along the road.

About The National Forest Route

• Distance: ~750 miles
• Time: ~13.5 hours
• Major Stops: Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, North Cascades National Park, Kaniksu National Forest, Kootenay National Park, Fairmont Hot Springs, Radium Hot Springs

8 Winter Travelers May Want To Take A Longer, Equally Beautiful Route From Seattle To Banff

One of the great advantages of taking a road trip from Seattle to Banff is that there are lots of things to do any time of the year. Even during the winter, it is possible to take a road trip between Seattle and Banff, as long as they are willing to make some modifications. Due to the icier road conditions, those taking this trip in the winter may want to stay further south, staying in the US for more of the drive.

This drive follows major roads for more of the road trip, starting on I-90 East to US-12 before connecting to I-15 North in Montana. I-15 will take drivers to the Canada border, where the road becomes AB-4. Winding back towards Banff, drivers will merge with AB-3, then AB-2, and eventually AB-1 to reach the final destination.

This route, while significantly longer at over 1,000 miles, is the most reliable option for those worried about winter weather, and still passing through scenic areas like Spokane, Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Coeur d'Alene, Helena, and Calgary.

About The Winter Route from Seattle to Banff

• Distance: ~1,100 miles
• Time: ~17 hours
• Major Stops: Spokane, Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Coeur d'Alene, Helena, Calgary, Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Visiting Banff In Winter? 10 Things To Do During Your Scenic Mountain Vacation

7 passports are required to drive from seattle to banff.

This may seem self-explanatory, but it's surprising what can slip through the cracks when preparing for something as big as the drive from Seattle to Banff on a road trip. Regardless of which route travelers want to take, all three cross the border between the US and Canada, and therefore require a passport to complete.

Depending on which path travelers decide to take, drivers will cross the border in either Washington, Idaho, or Montana. Travelers should also note that while a passport is required to enter Canada, border patrol does not routinely stamp passports at these inspection stations . That said, those hoping to pad their stamp collection can usually ask for a passport stamp to add to their collection.

• Passports Required: Yes
• Possible Check Stations Between Seattle and Banff: Lynden, Washington; Eastport, Idaho; or Sweet Grass, Montana

Need to get a passport to complete the Seattle to Banff road trip route? Check out some American passport FAQs, including cost and timing considerations for first timers .

6 Travelers Can Stop At Multiple National Parks Along The Way

Depending on how travelers wind through the roads between Seattle and Banff, numerous national parks and forests can easily be added to the itinerary. Those who go north out of Seattle can easily stop at North Cascades National Park, which has a number of excellent hiking trails , and for those taking the quick route, Glacier National Park of Canada and Yoho National Park are both on the way.

National forests, both in the US and Canada, are also numerous, even for those following the more freeway-oriented winter route. With stateside options like Coeur d’Alene National Forest in Idaho and international stops like Yoho National Park, the Seattle to Banff road trip is perhaps one of the most scenic drives in the northern United States.

• Potential US National Parks To Stop At: North Cascades National Park, Washington; Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest, Washington; Kaniksu National Forest, Washington and Idaho; Coeur d’Alene National Forest, Idaho; Idaho Panhandle National Forests, Idaho; Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, Montana
• Potential Canada National Parks To Stop At: Glacier National Park of Canada; Yoho National Park; Kootenay National Park; Banff National Park

5 The Seattle To Banff Road Trip Takes About One Week

Road trips are one of the most flexible types of vacations when it comes to distance and time. Whether road trippers just want to take a simple afternoon drive or hop on one of the best cross-country road trip routes in the US and Canada, planning a road trip starts with determining the time frame.

The Seattle to Banff road trip route deserves at least five to seven days to fully enjoy, largely due to the wide range of outdoor activities and major cities to enjoy. Those taking one of the longer routes especially should save some time to explore cities like Spokane, Washington, and its wide variety of things to do .

Additionally, Banff itself is a thrilling destination, with year round activities including skiing, hiking, and urban sightseeing. Visitors will want to ensure that they want to leave at least a couple of days at the end of their road trip to fully enjoy this exceptional final destination.

• Major Cities to Explore Between Seattle and Banff: Seattle, Washington; Spokane, Washington; Everett, Washington; Marysville, Washington; Mt Vernon, Washington; Coeur d'Alene, Idaho; Helena, Montana; Calgary, Canada

4 Road Trippers Can See Even More Wildlife At BC Wildlife Park

In addition to the number of scenic areas and top stops on the road trip from Seattle to Banff, there are numerous hidden gems worthy of an afternoon visit. For those taking the quick route between Seattle and Banff, there may be concerns about missing out on some of the natural wonders of the longer routes.

Road trippers worried about not getting enough wildlife viewing can make a stop at BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops. This CAZA-accredited park has a temperature-controlled indoor discovery center, ideal for winter visitors. There is also a splash pad and family farm for the younger travelers.

The main attraction, of course, is the wildlife. Most of the animals on the grounds, from the smallest birds to the largest grizzlies, are rescues that have found their second chance at BC Wildlife Park. In addition to enjoying a life of leisure at their new home, these animals can now teach guests about the unique biodiversity of Canada’s massive landscape.

About BC Wildlife Park

• Entrance Fee: from $19.95/adult
• Address: 9077 Dallas Dr., Kamloops, BC, V2C 6V1
• Oct. 10-Dec. 8: Open Weekends and Stat Holidays 9:30am-4:00pm
• Dec. 15-Jan. 7: Open Daily 4:00pm-9:00pm
• Jan. 8-Jan. 31: Open Weekends and Stat Holidays 9:30am-4:00pm
• Summer Hours: Open Daily 9:30am-4:00pm

3 Travelers Can Relive History At Rogers Pass Discovery Centre

While the natural beauty of the Seattle to Banff road trip is second to none, there is historical significance to the region as well. What are now national forests and major cities were first Native American homelands, then stomping grounds for fur trappers, loggers, and railroad builders.

Those interested in exploring the history of the area can make a stop at Rogers Pass Discovery Centre, not far from the final destination of Banff in Glacier National Park of Canada. The discovery center, considered “ the best national park museum in Canada ,” focuses on the railroad history of the region, exploring the history of the transcontinental railroad in Canada.

The center also suggests several unique hiking trails that follow the old railways, perfect for those hoping to blend history with an outdoor adventure.

About the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre

• Entrance Fee: from $10.50/adult ( Glacier National Park entrance fee )
• Address: Highway #1, Glacier National Park, BC
• Winter Hours: 7:00am - 3:00pm
• Summer Hours: 9:00am - 5:00pm

2 There Are Over 1,000 Miles Of Hiking Trails Between Seattle And Banff

While road trips often conjure images of hours in the car, the drive from Seattle to Banff is peppered with hiking trails sure to stretch even the weariest legs. In fact, Banff National Park itself has over 1,000 miles of hiking trails , although there are a variety of other things to do besides hiking in Banff National Park as well.

Considering all three of the suggested routes also pass through at least two other national forests as well, there is no doubt that hiking is a must any time of year on the road trip from Seattle to Banff.

Popular Easy Hike in Banff National Park - Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail

• Distance: 2.8 miles
• Difficulty: Easy
• Time to Hike: ~1 hour
• Open Year-Round: Yes

Popular Challenging Hike in Banff National Park - Sulphur Mountain Trail

• Distance: 6.7 miles
• Difficulty: Hard
• Time to Hike: ~4.5 hours

10 Tips For Hiking In Banff National Park For The First Time

1 travelers can warm up at radium or fairmont hot springs.

Even in the height of summer, hot springs are a unique attraction that are well worth a dip. For winter road trippers, however, detouring to Radium Hot Springs or Fairmont Hot Springs just outside Banff may be a needed recharge point.

Radium Hot Springs is a unique small town with a variety of outdoor activities, including skiing, biking, and hiking. The main attraction, however, is the hot springs themselves, which visitors can dip in for $16.50 .

Not far from Radium Hot Springs is one of the other best hot springs in Banff, Fairmont Hot Springs . With single entry starting at $16.00, guests can enjoy a dip in Canada’s largest hot springs anytime between 9am and 9pm before starting the final stretch of their road trip adventure.

About Radium Hot Springs

• Entrance Fee: from $16.50/adult
• Address: 5420 BC-93, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0, Canada
• Monday – Friday: 11:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Saturday – Sunday: 10:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.

About Fairmont Hot Springs

• Entrance Fee: from $16.00/adult
• Address: 5225 Fairmont Resort Road, Fairmont Hot Springs, BC V0B 1L1
• Hours: 9:00 am - 9:00 pm

Escape The Busy City With This Road Trip To A Beautiful Canadian National Park

A beautiful montage of emerald lakes, glacier valleys, and colorful pines, the odyssey from Seattle to Banff, Alberta, is a road trip everyone should complete at least once in their life. Trade interstates for backroads and city views for the serene vistas of the Pacific Northwest and Canadian Rockies. Averaging a 16.5-hour journey, it's a trip worth spreading out over at least a few days to capture the wilderness at its fullest. Transversing the entire state of Washington and skirting the upper edge of Idaho, this route favors America's mountainous terrain, while diving deep into British Columbia's Rocky Mountains.

Sunshine and warmth make spring and summer the most favorable seasons to explore the peaceful backwoods, with seas of wildflowers springing up from the earth. However, the winter months make for a picturesque drive while getting lost in a snowy trance. With a map in hand to charter your route and a full tank of gas, set out on a wilderness expedition that will maneuver you through some of North America's most scenic beauty.

Seattle and small towns

Begin your trek in the evergreen forests and snow-capped mountains of Seattle . While it may be the springboard for this road trip, it's worth taking at least a few hours to meander the eclectic streets of America's coffee capital. Grab some lobster rolls along the waterfront or take a tour of the iconic Seattle Space Needle. After a much-needed caffeinated beverage, head north on I-5 toward Snohomish County, the "Antique Capital of the Pacific Northwest". With flourishing economic activity, it's home to a historic downtown filled with antique shops.

From here, the WA-530 runs east toward Mt. Baker -Snoqualmie National Forest and Glacier Peak. The forest is over one million acres, running from the Canadian border to Mount Rainier National Park. Dormant volcanoes, pine-covered mountain tops, and glacier waterfalls create a stunning topography for travelers. The picturesque vistas speak for themselves, with monikers like Artist Point and Picture Lake that reflect the serenity of the land.

Wander the North Cascades

Nestled in the foothills of the North Cascade Mountain Range, make a stop in the small city of Newhalem. Nature trails and glacier lakes make up more of this town than its small collection of urban elements. After hiking to Ladder Creek Falls in Newhalem, head back out on the road, east toward the city of Wilbur on State Route 20, passing through North Cascades National Park before the highway intersects with WA-174. Wilbur is the epitome of a quaint American small town dominated by a strong farming community. Personalities are cheerful in this small settlement, even taking on the name "the friendliest little town!" 

Just over an hour from Wilbur, spend the night in Spokane, where the city lights shine a little bit brighter as a thriving mini-metropolis. If you visit on Father's Day, remember that the national holiday originated in this Washington County. Continuing the road trip, you'll venture into the rugged territory of Idaho, following US-95, which takes you into Kaniksu National Forest. Heading north out toward the Canadian border, cross over Kingsgate, the port of entry into British Columbia. 

Get lost in Canadian beauty

Reaching from the border's edge, the highway cuts through a sea of trees. In autumn, the golden hues of fall melt on a dazzling canvas of red, orange, and brown. Embarking on this road trip during wintertime promises its own scope of beauty, with powdery snowflakes dusting every inch of the landscape. While accessible during every season, chillier months especially call for a pitstop at Lussier Creek Hot Springs, located in the heart of Kootenay National Park. The undeveloped mineral pools are heated deep within the earth's core, perfect for soaking creekside while listening to the babbling brook.

Home to icy glaciers and sloping valleys, Kootenay National Park is a trove of untouched nature carved by forested trails. With over 125 miles of scenic trails, there's no better way to experience the Canadian Rockies than on foot. Marble Canyon is an especially attractive landmark, with its red rock canyons splitting the earth's surface and towering above Tokumm Creek. 

Intersecting BC-93 is Canada's transcontinental highway, AB-1 East. Follow this route until you reach the edge of Banff, Alberta, with its crystal clear waters reflecting a perimeter of pines. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Banff National Park is an iconic mountain destination, home to world-class ski resorts and emerald lakes — a captivating destination renowned by globetrotters. Chateau-style hotels and vibrant boutiques and restaurants line every street corner in the town of Banff, while the untamed wilderness beckons nomads from around the globe to explore its treasures.

If wanting to Vacation a lot means you're lazy, then call me Lazy Lauren. A family of 4 exploring the world using Points and Miles.

4 day Road Trip Itinerary – Banff National Park

My husband and I visited Banff National Park in September.   I was 8 months pregnant with our first child during the trip. But that didn’t stop me from going on some of the most incredible hikes to see the best views I have ever seen in my life.  It’s hard to squeeze everything into 4 days.  Honestly, I could have spent a month here. But, if you are limited with time, see below for our itinerary with tips on how we used our time wisely in the 4 days we had in the park.  

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How to get to banff national park:  fly to calgary – rent a car.

To tell you the truth, I had never even heard of Banff until this year.  I stumbled upon Banff when researching day-trips from Seattle.  We were going to Seattle to visit a friend.  When I saw pictures of Jasper and Banff national park, I cut our time in Seattle short and booked a direct flight on Air Canada (only 45 minutes) from Seattle to Calgary.   Then we booked a rental car from there. 

You can also drive from Seattle to Banff within about 12 hours. That’s with little to no stops and depends on which route you take.  But based on my past road trips, 12 hours can turn into 2 days with all the stopping for pictures. After all, you are driving through the Canadian Rocky Mountains, so pictures are inevitable.  Add the process of crossing the Canadian border, and 12 hours becomes very unlikely.  I chose to fly because I only had 4 days of vacation and I wanted every minute of it to be exploring this national park. If you have longer than 3-4 days it might be more economical to drive from Seattle.  

We managed to squeeze ALOT into our 4 days in Banff National Park.  When I research and plan my trips, I will organize my itinerary based on the locations of each site I want to see.  This way you can fit as much as possible into a short amount of vacation time.  Here’s the run down:

Itinerary Day 1 – Downtown Banff & Banff Gondola :

Fly into Calgary Airport and rent a car.   (HOW to fly to Calagary for Nearly Free) . The drive from Calgary to Banff is about 1 hour.  There are many gorgeous luxury hotels in Banff but they come at a hefty price tag.  We stayed at Banff Park Lodge , which I highly recommend for a budget friendly hotel.  It is centrally located and just two blocks from the main street with all the bars, shopping, and restaurants.  After checking in, explore the downtown area before going to the Banff Gondola (only 5 minute drive from hotel).  I read that you can hike up to the top, but it was getting late and I was antsy to see the view from above.  So we paid the CA$56 and were at the top within 5 minutes.  

After the Gondola, go have drinks at Banff Avenue Brewing Co (their balcony overlooks the main street) and then dinner at Bear Street Tavern (delicious pizza!).  Both places are highly rated on Trip Advisor. 

Itinerary Day 2 – Johnston Canyon & Peyto Lake :

Wake up early, grab some coffee and a quick breakfast on Banff Avenue.  Then hop in the car and head towards Johnston Canyon via the Bow Valley Parkway.  You can also take the Trans Canadian Highway to get there faster, but I highly recommend taking the Bow Valley Parkway .  If you drive slow enough, you have a good chance of seeing all sorts of wildlife….bears, elk, long horned sheep, etc.

Once you arrive to the Johnston Canyon parking lot, hike the Upper Falls trail for a beautiful 3-mile round-trip EASY hike to the waterfalls.  You can also do the .68 miles to the Lower Falls, but we skipped out on that, as I was starved after the hike. Keep in mind…8 months pregnant! 

Pictures from our Johnston Canyon Hike :

After our hike we had lunch at Bridges Restaurant, just up the road from the Johnston Canyon trail head. This is a perfect place to take a quick rest and have a beer, or inhale 2 burgers….whatever. 

************** My family and I use Points & Miles to take multiple bucket list Vacations each year for NEARLY FREE! You can do this too! Click Here to get your FREE Beginner’s Guide with 4 Simple steps to getting started! ***************

PEYTO LAKE (day 2 afternoon)

After Johnston Canyon, continue on to Peyto Lake via the Icefields Parkway scenic drive (about 55 minutes north).   Peyto lake is stunning! Check out my blog post ( click here ) for how to find the secret hiking trail that gets you to the VIEW pictured below.  Most people stop at the main viewing point. Don’t do that. You will miss out! I’m pretty certain the pictures in that post will have you booking your flight to Banff today! 

 After a day of exploring Johnston Canyon and Peyto lake, continue to to Lake Louise where you will spend the night. We arrived at Lake Louise Inn , our hotel near Lake Louise , and took a quick power nap. That evening head over to watch the sun set over Lake Louise. I recommend having dinner at one of the many restaurant options in the Fairmont Chateau overlooking Lake Louise…another Must!  

Itinerary Day 3 – Moraine Lake & Lake Louise + Tea House:

Wake early and head straight to Moraine Lake to get a parking spot before the crowds show up!  I’ve read that parking is so limited nowadays that you may need to take a bus.  Hike up Rock Pile trail for an amazing view of of the lake from above.  Then rent a canoe and take it out onto the lake. Check out my post on tips for exploring Moraine Lake (click here) .  

After a morning of exploring Moraine Lake, head back to Lake Louise for lunch with a view at the Fairmont Chateau (it’s right next to the lake.)  Afterwards, hike up to the Tea House . The trail starts to the right of Lake Louise. It’s about a 1.5 mile hike, straight up the mountain. Not easy when you are 8 months pregnant. And yes, I hiked in my purple rain boots which was not as bad of an idea as you may think. The trail can be quite muddy and they had great grip and were super comfy. You can get some here .)   

There is another lake at the top (see pic above). It is right next the the Tea House and has hiking trails surrounding it. 

That evening head back to Downtown Banff for dinner & drinks at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel . This hotel is absolutely beautiful! It’s definitely worth stopping in, even if you don’t want to eat or drink. (see pics below).   

Itinerary DAY 4 – Grassi Lakes Trail in Canmore

Before we headed to the airport for a 3pm flight in Calgary, we woke up early to hike the Grassi Lakes trail in Canmore on our way out of the national park.  I do recommend this hike but maybe not so early in the morning.  We got there at 6:30am with no one around and tons of warnings about bears in the vicinity.  We risked it because an early morning jogger had just come out from the trail and said she hadn’t seen anything.  Of course we had no bear spray with us.  She gave us a tip to just yell out “Hey-ho” every five minutes or so to keep bears at bay.  The lady claimed “they are more scared of us.”  You can imagine how ridiculous we looked. Just the two of us hiking alone in the woods… screaming every so often.  That sunrise over the mountains, reflecting off the lake, was totally worth it.

TIP: After about 5 minutes into the Grassi Lakes trail entrance, you will come to a fork in the road. You can take the “Difficult Side” on the left or the “easy side” on the right.  We took the difficult side up and the easy side down.  Either way, make sure you take the difficult side at least once (either up or down). Because that is where the best views are!

As far as “babymoons” go, Banff National Park was one for the books.  It was definitely an adventurous one, with all the hiking, canoeing, exploring. I do plan on going back one day, just hopefully not 8 months pregnant.  I might try something a bit more relaxing for our next babymoon (if that’s in the stars). Perhaps with a beach and a hammock.

**** Want to fly to Calgary for NEARLY FREE? Or stay 4 nights in a Banff Hotel for $0.00? I LOVE teaching other families how to responsibly and strategically use Credit Cards to earn and use points so they TOO can take multiple dreamy vacations each year for SUPER discounted prices. Click HERE for your Free Guide! ****

Have you been to Alberta?  What did we miss?

You might also like : Dreamiest Hiking Trail in Lauterbrunnen Valley, Switzerland

Read more: glacier national park – 8 day roadtrip itinerar y, and: 10 most beautiful stops in yellowstone national park, 6 ways to save on vacation rentals – that you probably didn’t know about, how to do disney on a budget with points and miles.

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Banff National Park to Seattle drive

Banff national park to seattle road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Banff National Park to Seattle. If you're planning a road trip to Seattle, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

11:00 am  start at Banff National Park drive for about 2 hours

12:51 pm   Glacier National Park of Canada stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:51 pm drive for about 2.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 4 hours

10:00 am  leave from Sun Peaks Ski Resort drive for about 2.5 hours

12:35 pm   Hope (British Columbia) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:35 pm drive for about 55 minutes

2:30 pm   Abbotsford (Canada) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 3:30 pm drive for about 2 hours

5:42 pm  arrive in Seattle eat at Serious Pie stay at Ace Hotel

day 2 driving ≈ 5.5 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Glacier National Park of Canada   (3 mentions) Sun Peaks Ski Resort Hope (British Columbia) Abbotsford (Canada)

Where's the best place to stay in Seattle?

Are you going straight to a hotel, or looking for a vacation rental or Airbnb?

The best resource on neighborhoods, areas, and hotels is the Trippy page on where to stay in Seattle .

If you're looking for a quick answer, you can check out Ace Hotel , which was mentioned 6 times on Trippy.

Here are some more hotels people talk about:

Want to research more popular hotels in Seattle? Click the blue button below.

Where's the best place to eat in Seattle?

Need some recommendations on somewhere to get food?

Trippy members suggest Serious Pie , which was mentioned 12 times.

Here are some more restaurants people talk about:

Want to research more popular restaurants in Seattle? Click the blue button below.

What are some things to do in Seattle?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Seattle. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Seattle.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Seattle to Banff National Park drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Banff National Park to Seattle . Or get a full Banff National Park to Seattle flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend.

And if you know Banff National Park well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Banff National Park!

More info on this route:

road conditions from Banff National Park to Seattle

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The Ultimate Banff to Jasper Road Trip: 7 Day Itinerary for Alberta’s Top National Parks

Nick kembel.

• Last Modified December 14, 2021
• First Published on October 16, 2021

Post Summary: Banff to Jasper Road Trip

Banff National Park is Canada’s first and most popular national park. Adjoining Jasper National Park is every bit as beautiful and with a less touristy vibe. Connecting the two is the Icefields Parkway. Dotted with turquoise lakes and considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world, it is begging to be road tripped.

This Banff to Jasper road trip itinerary is tailor-made for anyone who has a full week off and wants to experience the best that these two Canadian Rockies national parks have to offer.

Banff & Jasper Road Trip Route Options

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This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! Read the full disclosure policy here

Getting to Jasper and Banff National Parks

Jasper is a 3.5-hour drive from Edmonton, the provincial capital of Alberta, while Banff is a 1-hour drive from Calgary, the largest city in Alberta.

Because Calgary is the closer of the two major Alberta cities to the mountains, it only makes sense to start your trip there, unless you happen to live elsewhere in Alberta or neighboring British Columbia.

If Vancouver looks close on the map, well, note that it is an 8.5- or 10.5-hour drive from Vancouver to Jasper or Banff, respectively.

Coming in from elsewhere in Canada or the US, flying into Calgary’s international airport, and renting a car there is ideal unless you have the time to add several days’ worth of driving to your trip.

Because there is only one highway connecting Jasper and Banff National Parks, there is only one route option for this trip. However, once you reach Jasper, you’ll have three different options for the final travel day.

Option 1: Finish in Edmonton

From Jasper, the shortest option is to take the Yellowhead Highway through to Edmonton. If you have the extra time, there are loads of things to do in Edmonton to justify spending a few days there.

However, if you need to get back to Calgary for a flight or because you live there, this route option will actually be the longest one. Also, keep in mind that it can cost quite a bit more to rent a car in one city and drop it off in another.

Option 2: Backtrack to Calgary

The shortest route from Jasper back to Calgary is actually the same way you came. If you don’t mind driving back down through Jasper and Banff again, it will only take five hours for the return journey.

By choosing this route, you can make any stops that perhaps you missed on the way up.

Option 3: Return to Calgary via Nordegg and the Cowboy Trail

A final option for returning to Calgary takes a little longer than option 2, but allows you to explore different parts of Alberta on the way back.

This option involves returning down the Icefields Parkway through Jasper National Park, but then turning east onto the David Thompson Highway through the beautiful Nordegg region.

Reaching Highway 22, the Cowboy Trail, you then drive south toward Calgary through Alberta ranchland, with the Rocky Mountains visible in the background the whole way.

For this trip, get whatever vehicle is best suited to you and your group. The entire highway is fully paved, and there are so many sections or even side trips requiring 4×4 capability. I book most of my rental cars through RentalCars.com . They have a great selection of rental cars from most major agencies and the best prices – check prices here .

It is important to note, however, that if you plan to do this road trip in winter, conditions can vary wildly. While the Trans-Canada and Yellowhead highways tend to be fine, the Icefields Parkway through the mountains can become dangerously slippery. In rare cases, it can even be closed due to avalanche or blizzard.

For these reasons, it is essential to get a vehicle that has winter tires. It is also a good idea to prepare emergency supplies just in case, and familiarize yourself with your car’s emergency features.

>>> Book your rental car with RentalCars.com

This road trip is possible any time of the year, and each season comes with ups and downs. All things considered, June and September are probably the best months.

• Popular stops like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake can become so swamped with people that they’ll close the access roads, and you can’t even get in unless you take the public shuttle.
• October and November are less inspiring times to visit, though. The autumn colors are past, but the snowy landscape has yet to arrive. It’s too late for summer activities, but too early for winter ones. One plus is the lack of crowds.
• Winter – Hello ski season! And showshoeing, skating, cross-country skiing, dog-sledding, and so on. Doing this road trip in winter is more of an adventure. The whole region becomes a winter wonderland, but a little more preparation (and careful driving) is needed. And despite the ski season, the crowds are still much tamer than in summer.
• Spring – Winter lasts longer in the mountains than elsewhere, so spring doesn’t actually come until May and June, and even then can still be quite chilly. By June, wildflowers start growing in the mountains, making this a lovely month to visit before the onslaught of tourists in July.

Where to Stay on a Banff to Jasper Road Trip?

In both Banff and Jasper National Parks, accommodations are mostly limited to Banff and Jasper townsites along with a few more at Lake Louise in Banff National Park. To maximize your adventure time, here is my suggested accommodation schedule for this itinerary:

• Night 1: Canmore (optional)
• Nights 2,3,4: Banff townsite
• Night 5: Lake Louise
• Nights 6, 7, 8: Jasper townsite

Canmore Camping

If you are planning on camping during your Banff to Jasper Road Trip, skip spending the night in Canmore and plan to camp in Banff for 4 nights.

Canmore Hotels

• Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn  – Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn is a budget friendly modern hotel. Rooms from $57/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hote l s.com .
• A Bear and Bison Inn  – A Bear and Bison Inn is a comfortable guest house located in Canmore. Rooms from $137/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .
• The Malcolm Hotel by CLIQUE   – The Malcolm is midrange mountain hotel with outdoor pools.  Rooms from $189/night;  book on Hotels.com .

Canmore Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Mountain View Retreat – Mountain View Retreat has mountain views and is a 1 BR apartment that sleeps 4.  Rooms from $113/night; book on VRBO .
• Penthouse at Blackstone – The Penthouse is a luxuray top floor apartment that sleeps 6.  Rooms from $229/night; book on VRBO .
• Townhouse with Panorama Views – This townhouse sleeps 12 and has wraparound mountain views.  Rooms from $113/night; book on VRBO .

Banff Camping

There are 2,462 campsites located within 14 campgrounds in Banff National Park. There are spaced out around the park. For this Banff to Jasper Itinerary, it is recommended to camp in Two Jack or Tunnel Mountain.

Banff Hotels

• Fairmont Banff Springs  – Banff Springs hotel is a historic National Park Lodge that is well worth the splurge.  Rooms from $347/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .
• Rundlestone Lodge  – The Rundlestone Lodge is a high-end budget friendly hotel option. Rooms from $83/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .
• Peaks Hotel and Suites  – Peaks Hotel and Suites is a modern boutique hotel in Banff.  Rooms from $137/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .

Banff Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Cozy Rockies Escape – This cozy rental sleeps 4.  Rooms from $184/night; book on VRBO .
• Banff Mountain Suite – The Mountain suite is a perfect getaway options that sleeps 4.  Rooms from $258/night; book on VRBO .
• Penthouse Banff Views – This penthouse sleeps 8 and comes with views of Banff.  Rooms from $403/night; book on VRBO .

Lake Louise Camping

Being able to jumpstart your day at Lake Louise is totally worth setting up for 1 night of camping at the Lake Louise Campgrounds.

Lake Louise Hotels

• Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise  – Chateau Lake Louise is THE HOTEL in the Banff/Jasper area. This hotel sits on Lake Louise and is amazing.  Rooms from $274/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com
• Lake Louise Inn  – The Lake Louise Inn is a budget friendly option near Lake Louise.  Rooms from $67/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .

Lake Louise Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Cozy Room at Lake Louise – This cozy room is provides shuttle access to the lakes and sleeps 3.  Rooms from $101/night; book on VRBO .
• Cozy Lake Louise Retreat – This apartment retreat sleeps 7 .  Rooms from $358/night; book on VRBO .

Jasper Camping

There are 10 different campgrounds in Jasper National Park. You can choose any campground for this Jasper to Banff Road Trip.

Jasper Hotels

• Mount Robson Inn  – Mount Robson Inn is a quaint budget friendly option. Rooms from $101/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .
• Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge  – Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a luxury hotel located in Jasper.  Rooms from $250/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .

Jasper Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Downtown Jasper Suite – The Downtown Jasper Suite sleeps 4 and is located in downtown Jasper.  Rooms from $130/night; book on VRBO .
• Bear’s Den – The apartment sleeps 4 offers mountain views.  Rooms from $202/night; book on VRBO .
• Executive Mountain Chalet – The Mountain Chalet is a private Chalet located on the edge of the park.  Rooms from $726/night; book on VRBO .
• Parks Canada Discovery Pass – The Park Canada Discovery Pass is the annual pass for the Canadian National Parks. The annual pass is the same price as seven days of daily pass. You can buy this upon arrival.
• Kananaskis Conservation Pass – Kananaskis Conservation Pass is a $15 pass that is needed for the recommend hikes in Canmore.
• Refillable Water Bottles – Help reduce litter in the parks and bringing a refillable water bottle with you. Here are my favorite water bottles >>> National Park map water bottle >>> Hydro Flask >>> Nalgene Bottle
• Hydration Bladder – For longer hikes, a hydration bladder is the best way carry water. >>> Buy a hydration reservoir
• Fruit:   Pick hard fruits such as apples or pears.  These hold-up in the heat and in packs without getting squished to mush. Another option is freeze-dried fruit. Freeze-dried strawberries are the BOMB.  They are crunchy, sweet and the best part is they are lightweight and yummy.  These are my new favorite trail snack.
• Vegetables: Cucumbers and carrots hold up well during hiking and in a hot car.
• Granola Bars:   Take your favorite non-coated in chocolate granola bars.  Anything coated in chocolate will melt and be a sticky mess.  My favorite is a selection of Cliff Bars . They are great even when squished.
• Sunscreen – Even in the mountains, sunscreen is important. While Banff doesn’t have coral reef’s, it is recommend to use reef-friendly sunscreen help protect the park’s freshwater ecosystems. >>> My favorite sunscreen.
• Lip balm – Just like our skin, our lips need protections too. >>> Check out my favorite Sunscreen Lip Balm
• Sunglasses – Similar to sunscreen, you need a good pair of polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun. >>> Buy Polarized Sunglasses
• Hat – A hat can keep the sun off your face and neck and help minimize the need for sunscreen while on the trail. >>> Buy a wide-brimmed hat
• First aid kit – As with any outdoor adventure, accidents happen. It is better to be prepared and have a compact first-aid kit ready to help with any accidents. >>> Buy a Solo First Aid Kit >>> Buy Mulit-person First Aid Kit
• Learn more about hiking headlamps .
• Shoes – Shoes are probably the most important piece of gear to any hiker. Hiking shoes should be seen as an investment. On the trail, your feet are your transportation and a solid pair of hiking shoes help support your feet and can prevent injury. >>> Pick out a quality hiking shoe. >>> Buy quality hiking socks.
• Hiking Day Pack – I highly recommend getting a dayback that is designed for outdoor use since these packs come with handy pockets and straps. My 40 L day pack has a pocket for my water bladder and a clip to hold the water line in place. >>> Buy my REI Women’s Day Pack >>> Buy REI Men’s Day Pack
• National Park Obsessed Shirt – Share your love of the National Parks and support National Park Obsessed with a National Park Obsessed T-Shirt. >>> Get your National Park t-shirts

How to Spend 7 Days in Banff & Jasper National Park?

Here is the basic itinerary for this road trip, including a day of travel on either end.

7 Day Banff & Jasper Itinerary

Drive Time: It takes 1 – 1.5 hours to drive from Calgary to Canmore.

This is mainly included as a travel day because you may not have much time, depending on what time your flight is arriving or you are able to depart from Calgary. If you are short on days, you can skip this travel day and go right to Day 1 below.

If you do have the time, however, I recommend stopping to do some hiking in Kananaskis country before reaching Canmore. Here are my recommended easy hikes in Kananaskis . Note that in order to do any of these hikes, you’ll need to register your car’s license plate for Kananaskis Conservation Pass online ($15/day).

After arriving in Canmore, take some time to explore the town’s many art galleries, laid-back vibe, and excellent restaurants to choose from. There are also three breweries and one spirit distillery in town.

Drive Time: It’s a 30-minute drive from Canmore to Banff.

In the morning, wake up early to do the hike to Grassi Lakes 10 minute drive out of Canmore town.

This easy hike leads to two gorgeous, vibrantly colored lakes at the base of two iconic Canmore mountains: Rundle Mountain and Ha Ling Peak on Mt. Lawrence Grassi. The hike takes two hours, and a Kananaskis Conservation pass is required.

After you check out from your hotel, it’s time to head to Banff National Park. You can purchase your National Park Discovery Pass when you drive through the national park gates. Banff townsite is only 30 minutes away, so you’ll have some time to kill.

Park your car in Banff townsite, have lunch, then stroll to explore the town’s many shops, cafés, art galleries. Cross the bridge at the south end of town to visit Buffalo Nations Museum, which highlights local indigenous culture.

Next, follow the lovely walking trail along the south side of the Bow River east to Bow River Falls. Alternatively, take the trail on the north side of the river to Surprise Corner, an epic view of the iconic Banff Springs Hotel.

Check into your hotel, then choose from one of the many great dining options in town. For an evening drink, try Banff Ave Brewing or Park Distillery. After diner, take a stroll around Banff with Banff Ghost Tours and learn about some of the dark and spooky history of Banff (and the Banff Springs Hotel).

>>> Book your Banff Ghost Tours HERE

Drive Time: Less than 1 hour.

Today you’ll get a bird’s eye view of Banff and soak up (both literally and figuratively) the national park’s history.

Drive up the side of Sulphur Mountain to Banff Gondola , where you’ll hitch a ride up to the peak. It’s best to reserve your tickets online, and there are special deals for families and early departures.

>>> Book your Banff Gondola Ticket on Viator or Get Your Guide .

At the summit, there’s a small museum, restaurant & café, and boardwalk trail to the proper peak. The views are outstanding. Most people spend around 1.5 hours at the summit (add more time if you plan to eat there); you need to choose a return time for your gondola, but they are flexible.

Pro tip: If you don’t want to splurge on pricey food, pack a lunch.

After your return gondola ride, drive a few minutes to Upper Hot Springs, the only public natural hot spring spa in Banff National Park. Enjoy the mountain views all around you as you soak in the thermal waters.

Next, drive back down the mountain and visit Cave & Basin National Historic Site, or “Lower Hot Spring.” This cave hot spring was Banff’s first attraction and the whole reason that Banff National Park, Canada’s first, was created.

While you can no longer bathe at Cave & Basin, you can still see the original spring, home to an endangered species of snail. The museum details the park’s history, and there are some children’s activities and walking trails outside.

Drive Time: Around 1 hour, with lots of stops

On day three, if you’re willing to wake up early enough, take in the sunrise from Vermillion Lakes, a few minutes’ drive (or 30-minute walk) out of town. Next drive the Minnewanka Loop just north of town. Go in a clockwise direction, stopping first at Bankhead Ghosttown, the remains of a former mining town.

Next you’ll reach beautiful Lake Minnewanka, where you can enjoy a picnic or stroll by the lake, or take one of the famous cruises on the lake (advance reservations are recommended). There’s a small food shack, but don’t count on it being open; pack some food just in case.

Further along the road, Two Jack Lake is another beautiful lake that also has a popular campground. After that, a side road leads to Johnson Lake, one of the best places to go swimming in Banff. It is a non-glacial lake, so it isn’t as freezing as the others.

Finally, Cascade Ponds features gorgeous mountain views across a series of ponds, perfect for a picnic or simply basking in the sun.

Drive Time: It’s a 1-hour drive from Banff to Lake Louise (via Johnston Canyon) and 40 minutes (return) drive from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake.

>>> Avoid parking issues with the Banff National Park hop-on-hop-off Bus

Check out of your hotel and follow the Trans-Canada highway out of town toward Banff. Turn onto the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) to reach Johnston Canyon. Johnston Canyon is a popular hike through a narrow canyon to a series of waterfalls. You can budget about an hour return to Upper Falls, or continue even further to the Ink Pots.

Next, continue on to Lake Louise, often considered the most beautiful lake in all of Canada. Besides walking the lakeside trail, a number of more difficult hiking trails begin there, you can canoe or kayak, or in winter skate on the lake.

Lake Louise’s twin, Moraine Lake, also makes a claim for the most beautiful lake in Canada. A side road (40 min return) leads to Moraine Lake, but the road closes in winter.

It’s important to note that the parking lots at both lakes can get so full that they get barricaded and you can’t even access them. This can even happen in the early morning for the sunrise rush! If you’re visiting in summer, you should consider parking your car and taking the official shuttle bus from a parking lot nearby. The shuttle does a loop to both lakes.

Finally, check into your hotel and enjoy a quiet evening.

Drive Time: It’s a 3-hour drive from Lake Louise to Jasper, not counting all the stops.

From Lake Louise, you’ll turn off the Trans-Canada and onto Highway 93, the Icefields Parkway. This route features some of the most gorgeous scenery in the Rocky Mountains.

Some stops you may want to make along the way include Herbert Lake, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake (which is particularly beautiful from the elevated parking lot), and Waterfowl Lake in Banff National Park.

After that, the highway enters Jasper National Park, and the first noteworthy stop is Athabasca Glacier on the mighty Columbia Icefield. You can walk right up to the glacier, or take a ride right on it in one of the Snow Coaches. There’s also a package deal that includes a trip to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

After that, other possible stops before reaching Jasper townsite include Tangle Falls, Sunwapta Falls, Athabasca Falls, and Horseshoe Lake, where you can jump off the cliffs into the water.

Start your day by choosing from one of several local hikes. The Valley of the Five Lakes is easy and beautiful, while Edith Cavell Meadows Trail is a little more challenging and includes a gorgeous glacial lake with chunks of ice floating in it, even in summer.

After lunch in town, choose one or several lakes to explore. Patricia Lake and Pyramid Lake offer stunning views of Pyramid Mountain and several trails. Around Jasper Park Lodge, Beauvert Lake, Mildred Lake, Annette Lake, and Edith Lake are each beautiful and have trails around them. Lake Annette also has a beach.

In the evening, explore the shops in Jasper townsite or go for a sun-downer at Jasper Ave Brewing.

Drive Time: It’s a 1.5-hour return drive from Jasper to Maligne Lake.

For your final full day in Jasper, drive Maligne Lake Road to Maligne Canyon, Jasper’s answer to Johnston Canyon in Banff.

Like Johnston Canyon, this is a narrow canyon with a trail through it, but the two canyons have different views and are both worth exploring. If you happen to be visiting at the peak of winter, when the ice is thick enough, the Maligne Canyon Icewalk (in which you walk through the canyon right on the frozen creek) is unbelievably beautiful.

Next, keep following Maligne Lake Road to Medicine Lake and finally Maligne Lake, where cruises depart to Spirit Island, one of the most famous scenes in the Canadian Rockies. Book your tickets early!

For your final return day, choose one of the three options I mentioned above. These are to finish in Edmonton, backtrack to Calgary, or take the slower route back to Calgary via Nordegg and Cowboy Trail.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Jasper and Banff National Parks!

Check out these other popular National Park Roads.

• Utah National Parks Road Trip
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39 Best Stops Between Banff and Seattle

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How long is the drive from Banff to Seattle?

The direct drive from Banff to Seattle is 596 mi (959 km) , and should have a drive time of 11 hrs 6 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Banff to Seattle, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Banff National Park , Lake Louise , Revelstoke , Bellingham , Friday Harbor , Kamloops , Vernon , Golden , and Port Townsend , as well as top places to visit like Johnston Canyon, Lower Falls and Bow Valley Pkwy, or the ever-popular Banff National Park.

Top cities between Banff and Seattle

Lake louise.

Banff National Park

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Friday Harbor

Port townsend, best stops along banff to seattle drive, johnston canyon, lower falls.

Bow Valley Pkwy

Fairmont château lake louise.

Moraine Lake

Takakkaw Falls

Radium hot springs, emerald lake, jasper national park icefield information centre and glacier gallery, columbia icefield skywalk, athabasca glacier, northern lights wildlife wolf centre, kicking horse mountain resort.

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Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Revelstoke Mountain Resort

The enchanted forest, d dutchmen dairy ltd, silverstar mountain resort, salmon arm wharf, planet bee honey farm and honeymoon meadery, davison orchards country village, kangaroo creek farm, bc wildlife park.

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Hell's gate airtram, othello tunnels, cultus lake waterpark, seattle premium outlets, top searches in seattle, other popular road trips from banff, explore nearby places.

• Bainbridge Island
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• Normandy Park
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• Woodinville
• Port Orchard

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Seattle throughout the year

• Seattle in January
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Seattle?

Get inspired for your trip to Seattle with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Seattle Itinerary
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• 4-Day Seattle Itinerary
• 5-Day Seattle Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from banff to seattle.

Yes! You can drive from Banff to Seattle.

How far is Seattle from Banff by car?

The drive from Banff to Seattle is 596 miles (959 km).

How long does it take to drive from Banff to Seattle?

Driving from Banff to Seattle should take you 11 hrs 6 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Banff to Seattle?

Gas from Banff to Seattle would cost around $52 to $122 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Banff to Seattle?

You could check out Johnston Canyon, Lower Falls and Bow Valley Pkwy, or the always popular Banff National Park!

What are the best cities to visit between Banff and Seattle?

People love visiting Banff National Park, Lake Louise, and Revelstoke, among others.

What's the weather like in Banff?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Banff in January
• Weather in Banff in February
• Weather in Banff in March
• Weather in Banff in April
• Weather in Banff in May
• Weather in Banff in June
• Weather in Banff in July
• Weather in Banff in August
• Weather in Banff in September
• Weather in Banff in October
• Weather in Banff in November
• Weather in Banff in December

What are some other road trips from Banff?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Banff.

• Banff to Las Vegas drive
• Banff to Calgary drive
• Banff to Vancouver drive
• Banff to Seattle drive
• Banff to San Francisco drive
• Banff to Los Angeles drive
• Banff to Chicago drive
• Banff to Jasper drive
• Banff to Jasper National Park drive
• Banff to San Diego drive
• Banff to Victoria drive
• Banff to Portland drive
• Banff to Yellowstone National Park drive
• Banff to Drumheller drive
• Banff to Denver drive
• Banff to Glacier National Park drive
• Banff to Colorado Springs drive
• Banff to Sedona drive
• Banff to Kelowna drive
• Banff to Grand Canyon National Park drive
• Banff to Revelstoke drive
• Banff to Monterey drive
• Banff to Yosemite National Park drive
• Banff to Salt Lake City drive
• Banff to Whistler drive
• Banff to Page drive
• Banff to Santa Fe drive
• Banff to Tucson drive
• Banff to Phoenix drive
• Banff to Moab drive

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Canmore To Banff: 10 Things To Know About This Mountain Vacation Road Trip

• Driving from Canmore to Banff is a must-try mountain vacation road trip with a short distance of 16.8 kilometers, taking about 20-25 minutes.
• Banff has two main exits, Banff Avenue and Mt. Norquay Road, with each leading to different attractions and destinations within Banff National Park.
• Traveling by car is the easiest way to reach Banff from Canmore, with car rentals mainly available in Calgary, and having a Parks Canada Pass is important for entry to national parks.

Although there are plenty of beautiful towns in Alberta other than Banff , Banff and Canmore are two of the most famous mountain towns in the Canadian Rockies and can give stiff competition as far as the best mountain vacations in the US are concerned. The proximity between the two towns makes the drive a must-try mountain vacation road trip for tourists. With a total distance of 16.8 kilometers, driving from Canmore to Banff can take about 20 to 25 minutes in ideal conditions.

Banff has two main exits, but visitors should follow the signs located on the highway along Banff Avenue so that it’s safer to reach downtown without causing traffic. Because it’s an easy route, getting to Banff from Canmore is accessible via biking trails and highways, with a few stops along the way to admire the mountainous landscapes, making it one of the best vacations in Banff .

From the famous trails to beautiful stopovers, as well as important route information, here are some of the many things to know about the road trip to Banff from Canmore.

RELATED: 10 Things You Can Only See & Find When Vacationing In Banff, Alberta

The Drive From Canmore To Banff Will Pass By Banff Park East Gate

The best way to enter Banff National Park while driving from Canmore to Banff is to pass by the Banff Park East Gate, located directly between the two mountain towns. Tourists with a Parks Canada Pass can go directly to the right-hand lanes to immediately enter the park.

On the other hand, travelers without a pass can quickly get one by buying from one of the park’s booths with a credit card or cash. The booths are usually located at the park gates, leaving west of Canmore.

• The line for purchasing passes gets longer during summer, so purchasing one online is best.
• Tourists who plan on entering the park multiple times can get the Discovery Pass , allowing unlimited admission to Banff National Park for an entire year.

Day passes cost $10.50 per adult and $9 per senior, and children up to 17 years old are free.

Banff Avenue And Mt. Norquay Road Are The Two Exit Points

The first exit is along Banff Avenue on the right-hand side from Canmore, right before passing Cascade Ponds on the right and Cascade Mountain. Tourists turning left from the exit will reach Banff Avenue while turning right will head straight to Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive .

The Mt. Norquay Road Exit will take tourists directly to Mt. Norquay Scenic Drive to witness the famous Banff Sign and the Vermillion Lakes.

• Tourists who want to see Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake, and Cascade Ponds should exit through Banff Avenue.
• The Mt. Norquay Road Exit is closer to train stations, ideal for tourists traveling without a car.

Visitors who will only visit Banff National Park and not stay in a Banff hotel should exit via Mt. Norquay Road so that it’s easier to find a parking space.

Traveling By Car Is The Best Way To Reach Banff From Canmore

Driving by car is the easiest way to travel to Banff from Canmore and vice versa, and owning a vehicle is better than renting a car because car rentals are mainly available in Calgary, and only Hertz Car Rental location is available in Banff. Again, having a Parks Canada Pass is important because it serves as the visitor’s ticket to entering national parks along the scenic drive from Canmore to Banff.

Tourists should display the Parks Canada Pass on the car’s dashboard or around the mirror for better viewing by the park staff. For travelers visiting Banff on a budget , it’s better to get the Discovery Pass because it’s unlimited and grants entry to more than ten national parks in Alberta.

• Standard car rental rates begin at $42 per day .
• The route to Banff from Canmore gets the most crowded during summer, so tourists are advised to leave as early as possible.

The Legacy Trail Is The Most Famous Bike Trail From Canmore To Banff

Nature enthusiasts and adventurous travelers will prefer heading to Banff by biking, and Legacy Trail is the first and most famous pathway along this mountainside vacation road trip. With a distance of about 16 miles , this bike trail runs from Bow Valley Parkway to Canmore’s Travel Alberta Visitor Information Center.

Bikers love biking on Legacy Trail during mid-April because it’s when snow starts melting. There are picnic areas for pit stops and beautiful locations midway for stunning photos.

• The ride on the Legacy Trail takes one to three hours, depending on the pace.
• Some tourists love biking on this trail and heading to the Lake Minnewanka Loop.

RELATED: 10 Bucket-List Things To Do On Your First Time In Banff (Inside & Outside The Park)

The Goat Creek Trail Is Better for Mountain Bikes

Mountain biking is one of the most adventurous things to do in Canmore , and the Goat Creek Trail is the preferred pathway for mountain bikers. Tourists can find the parking lot near the EEOR Trailhead which extends at least 490 feet away from the famous Banff Springs Hotel at the Spray River West Trailhead.

The Goat Creek Trail is a downhill drive from Canmore, but it’s a pretty easy and family-friendly path, with only a few bumps and bumpy roads.

• The Goat Creek Trail is beginner-friendly, even for kids.
• Tourists with no mountain bikes can rent one at Rebound Cycle in Canmore .

Experienced mountain bikers who want extra thrill can head to the Rundle Riverside Trail after Goat Creek. It’s more challenging and way bumpier.

Route 3 Is The Ideal Road For Tourists Taking The Bus

Taking the bus to Banff from Canmore is also doable, particularly via the Roam Transit Bus on Route 3. This public transportation operates in the morning until late at night and has several stops in Canmore and Banff.

One-way bus tickets cost $6, but purchasing a day pass for $15 is more budget-friendly. Travelers planning to tour Lake Louise from Banff can also get the $25 Super Pass from Roam Transit .

• The only downside of riding the bus is the limited time to tour and take photos because tourists must follow the strict transportation schedule.
• Travelers can also ride a taxi instead, but it can cost up to $80 one-way .

The Johnston Canyon Is A Great Stopover For Hikers Traveling From Canmore To Banff

Hikers on the route from Canmore to Banff (and vice versa) should visit the Johnston Canyon near Banff National Park, with a total hiking distance of 15 kilometers . The Johnston Canyon features beautiful views of the Canadian Rockies, regardless of the season.

There are three parts to this hiking trail : Upper Falls, Lower Falls, and Ink Pots. The Lower Falls has a total distance of around 0.7 miles one way and takes roughly an hour to complete, the Upper Falls take two hours to complete with its 1.7-mile one-way distance, and the Ink Pots take 5 hours.

• Johnston Canyon has no admission fee except for the Parks Canada Pass.
• Parking spaces near Johnston Canyon get easily packed during mid-October.

RELATED: 10 Reasons Canmore Is A Better Alternative To Banff (Heart Of The Canadian Rockies)

A Horse Stable Is Also Along The Drive From Canmore To Banff

One of the best stops from Canmore to Banff on a road trip for animal lovers is a horse stable. Midway on the road from Canmore to Banff is Warner Stables , where tourists can choose a horse and enjoy horseback riding to reach Banff National Park.

A lot of horseback riding tours start from this stable, with tour guides to walk visitors through everything to know about riding the horses. Travelers are required to sign a waiver before they start horseback riding and should properly adhere to the outfit requirements: close-toed shoes and long pants.

• An adult must accompany children under 17 who want to ride a horse.
• Pregnant travelers are prohibited from horseback riding.

Animals Can Suddenly Appear When Driving From Canmore To Banff

One of the unusual experiences to have in Banff is encountering various animals. However, while on the road, these critters can appear, including when driving from Canmore to Banff. There’s a good chance travelers will suddenly see a black bear or a deer on the loose along the pathway, so being cautious and maintaining concentration when driving on the road is crucial.

Generally, animals along mountain road trips remain peaceful and well-behaved as long as travelers don’t disturb these creatures. It’s fine to admire the black bears and take photos, but tourists must always keep a safe distance.

• The best time to drive from Canmore to Banff to see black bears is at dusk or dawn during the animals’ active feeding hours.
• Tourists should only stay on marked trails and travel in groups for extra safety.

The Bow Falls Is One Of The Most Beautiful Stops Between Canmore And Banff

On the Canmore to Banff road trip route, a quick detour to Bow Falls is definitely worth it, especially during summer or spring when the weather conditions are warm and sunny. But this tourist destination is also beautiful during winter when the water is frozen.

Tourists who are in a rush can still visit this beautiful stopover and spend only at most 15 minutes of their time appreciating Bow Falls and taking photos before going back to hitting the road.

• Visiting Bow Falls is completely free, but there are rafting excursions for travelers who want to spice up the adventure.
• The Bow Falls is one of the pet-friendly stopovers in this mountain vacation road trip in the Canadian Rockies.