best road trips canadian rockies

10 Days in the Canadian Rockies: The Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary

Discover the beauty of the Canadian Rockies with this in-depth 10-day itinerary.

A few years ago, I spent a blissful 6 months gallivanting around the Canadian Rockies. I was put on a work assignment in nearby Calgary, Canada, and every weekend I’d rent a car and drive out to admire and hike around the majestic peaks and evergreen forests of Canmore, Banff, Jasper, and Waterton Lakes.

And while some of my memories include run-ins with bears or gracefully getting caught in a thunderstorm while hiking above the treeline, the majority of my Canadian Rockies road trip days were pure happiness.

After my travels there, a lot of friends and readers asked me about my travel tips for a Canadian Rockies itinerary. Several readers even went there solely because they’d seen my photos on Instagram.

To be honest, I’m not surprised at all that people see photos of the Canadian Rockies and immediately book a trip.

Yes, it’s actually that beautiful.

And that’s how this Canadian Rockies itinerary was born.

This itinerary is arguably the most spectacular Canada road trip, and it’s definitely one of the most naturally striking and totally out-of-this-world-beautiful trips you can take in the entire world.

But don’t take my word for it! Read on to learn all of my first-hand tips for planning the ultimate Canadian Rockies road trip.

For your information, this is a SUPER comprehensive guide (read: long and detailed sections to come)! I just wanted to make sure all of our best tips, guides, and resources for the Canadian Rockies were all in one place for you to access easily.

Soooo, grab a glass of your favorite adult beverage, cozy on up, and let’s chat by the crackling fireside about how to plan a kickass Canadian Rockies itinerary!

Travel Tips for Planning Your Canadian Rockies Road Trip

One thing that’s really important to keep in mind is that the Canadian Rockies is becoming a more popular travel destination every. single. year.

That’s why it’s crucial to plan your trip in advance. 

If you’re planning on visiting the Canadian Rockies in the highest season (June through August), I’d recommend planning your trip and making all of your bookings AT LEAST 2-3 months in advance.

If you’re going in the shoulder season (May through early June or September through October), you can plan 1-2 months in advance.

From my own personal experience, here’s everything you need to know as you plan your Canadian Rockies road trip:

Important Tips to Know Before Traveling in the Canadian Rockies

Weather conditions can be very unpredictable. One minute it’s blue skies and sunny and the next, it’s sleeting. This is normal life in the Canadian Rockies, and it’s something you’ll have to get used to if you’re traveling in from a more temperate climate.

Be sure to bring gear for both cold and warm weather (we’ve provided our favorite recommendations a little later in this post), and have waterproof shells for when the weather turns sour.

Accommodation books up very, very quickly. When I was planning my most recent trip to the Canadian Rockies, I noticed Banff and Jasper were already booked at over 80% capacity…2 months before my arrival.

As soon as you think you want to go to the Rockies, you should book cancellable accommodation (Booking.com is great for that!) to make sure you can secure  something .

There’s wildlife everywhere. Talk to any local in the area and they’ll tell you wildlife is commonplace here. It’s not out of the ordinary to see a bear or an elk grazing on the side of the road.

You can absolutely admire these animals from a distance (and even go on a special tour to see them!). But whatever you do, KEEP A SAFE DISTANCE and DO NOT FEED ANY ANIMALS. This is their home and we need to respect and protect them.

You need to buy a ticket to enter the parks. While Canmore isn’t part of this, in order to enter Banff, Jasper, or Yoho, you need to pay the entrance fee. The fees are per person, per day, so depending on the size of your group, you’ll either want to pay individually or splurge for a family/group pass. You can see all prices and conditions on the Parks Canada page.

If you want to avoid the crowds, wake up early. This itinerary will be taking you to many different locations, some more popular than others. However, if you’re not a morning person, you miiiiight want to become one during this trip, as the early morning is a) the best time to avoid the crowds and b) the best time for photos of the park because of the lighting.

When to Visit the Canadian Rockies

The Canadian Rockies are a year-round travel destination. This means that, yes, you can visit during any month of the year, but what you can do drastically depends on the weather. You’ll need to have the right expectations about weather and available activities. 

Visiting in Summer or Fall

Summer and fall usually boast the best hiking and camping weather, but also attract the largest crowds.

Typically, all of the hiking trails and summer adventure activities are open and available during this time of year, meaning that the hotels and lodges are often almost completely sold out and there’s actually traffic.

If you’re planning on visiting the Canadian Rockies during the summer, you’ll need to plan a few months in advance to secure accommodations, car rentals, and tours.

Visiting in the Spring

Spring is the shoulder season, especially after the ski slopes begin to melt but the trails are still covered in winter ice. Weather during this time of year can mimic winter or summer, depending on when in the season you visit.

The first time I ever visited the Canadian Rockies, we went in mid-May and, while not all of the hiking trails were open yet, we experienced very few crowds and even had Lake Louise completely to ourselves.

Not a bad trade-off if you’d prefer a more tranquil, quiet experience!

FYI, this Canadian Rockies itinerary is based on a spring, summer, or fall road trip. 

Visiting in the Winter

However, that’s not to say you can’t make a Canadian Rockies road trip in the winter. Winter is the least-crowded season in the area, but your activities will be limited to snow sports (e.g., skiing, snowboarding, tubing, etc.) and ice activities (like ice climbing and ice trekking, which are pretty cool, IMO).

If you’re planning on doing any of these outdoor winter sports, I recommend grabbing yourself a pair of crampons, a durable, insulated jacket , and thermal snow pants, as you’ll DEFINITELY need them. Also, make sure that you have all of the most important gear for hiking in winter .

If you’re going to take a road trip during the winter season, I’d strongly recommend having experience driving in snowy/icy conditions, and please make sure to have the right gear, like snow chains, ice scrapers, etc.

How to Get to & Around the Canadian Rockies

If you haven’t already guessed by the fact that this is a “road trip” itinerary,  I strongly recommend driving yourself or renting a car to get to and around the Canadian Rockies. Why? Because having your own car gives you the most flexibility for where you can go in the park and what time.

How to Rent a Car in Calgary

Luckily, it’s pretty easy to rent a car at an affordable price from the nearby cities of Calgary, Edmonton, and even Vancouver. You can even rent a car in Banff town. If you’re not from the area, I strongly recommend flying into Calgary International Airport (YYC), as it’s the closest airport to this itinerary’s starting point.

You can rent a car from Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise directly from the airport. However, if you want to save some moolah, I’d recommend checking the prices at Calgary’s downtown car rental locations as well. I’ve found rental cars downtown tend to be cheaper, costing sometimes 20-40% less per day than renting at the airport. Plus, the taxi downtown from the airport only costs ~$15 USD one way.

Getting Around the Canadian Rockies

Once you’ve got a car, there are gas stations all over the Trans-Canada Highway and the Icefields Parkway (the two primary roadways you’ll be using in this itinerary). Before heading anywhere, I strongly recommend checking the Parks Canada road reports, so you know if there are any road closures or bad weather conditions ahead of time.

Where to Stay in the Canadian Rockies

There are places to stay in the Canadian Rockies for any budget level, from penny-pinching backpackers to luxury lovers.

To make planning your accommodations suuuper easy, for each day of this Canadian Rockies itinerary, I’ll be providing two recommendations for places to stay, one budget option and one mid-range option.

I’ll also suggest the most convenient campsite for each day of the itinerary.

However, if you’d like more suggestions or information on where to stay in the Canadian Rockies, we’ve got you covered with 2 complete accommodation guides (Banff and Jasper):

• Where to Stay in & around Banff National Park
• Where to Stay in Jasper National Park

And, for those of you interested in camping in the Canadian Rockies, we’ve got 3 complete and detailed guides on that as well:

The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Banff National Park

• The Ultimate Guide to Camping in Jasper National Park
• What to Pack for a Camping Trip: The Ultimate Camping Packing List

What to Pack for the Canadian Rockies

Clothing to pack for the canadian rockies.

• Waterproof hiking boots – While on a Canadian Rockies road trip, there’s a good chance you’ll be caught walking in mud, snow, and stream crossings. To keep my feet warm and dry during day hikes, I have a cozy pair of Ahnu waterproof hiking boots that always do the trick! My boots have been with me to Patagonia, Peru, Slovenia, and more, and they’re still kicking ( haha, get it?! ).
• Wool socks – You’ll want to bring some warm wool socks to pair with your hiking boots. Not only will these help keep your feet cozy and dry, but they can also help prevent blisters from your boots. We love our Darn Tough hiking socks for all of our outdoor adventures and literally bring them everywhere with us.
• Merino wool layers – It’s a really good idea to bring a merino wool baselayer , which will keep you cool in the summer and warm in colder weather. Merino is soft, sturdy, stink-free, and sweat-wicking, AKA the best fabric ever for staying warm and dry in the Canadian Rockies’ unpredictable climate.
• A waterproof rain shell – No matter what time of year it is, there’s a decent chance of a sudden downpour in the Canadian Rockies. Yes, it literally happens even when the skies are clear and blue minutes before. Bring a sturdy, waterproof rain jacket to stay warm and dry at all times.
• A compressible down jacket – Temperatures in the Canadian Rockies can be chilly even in the summer, especially as you gain altitude. For this reason, I always make sure to pack my thermal puffer, all rolled up into a tiny ball that I can shove into my day pack or clip onto the outside of my bag with a carabiner.

Toiletries & Personal Items

• Mosquito repellent, sunscreen, and sunglasses – Don’t forget these! Just like most other outdoor areas, the Canadian Rockies get lots of sunshine and mosquitoes in the summer, so plan ahead.
• Snacks – Whether you’re hiking, rafting, or driving, you’ll definitely want some snacks to carry with you. I strongly recommend purchasing packaged or resealable snacks as the food scents can be an issue with wildlife in the area.
• Good road trip playlists – You’ll be driving a LOT in the Canadian Rockies, so having a good car playlist downloaded to your phone is a must!

Other Helpful Things to Pack for the Canadian Rockies

• Bear spray – Like I mentioned before, there is a LOT of wildlife in the Canadian Rockies. Be sure to purchase a canister of bear spray if you plan on doing lots of hiking or camping. You most likely won’t have to use it (I never did in 6 months!), but it’s smart to have on you in the event of a chance run-in with a bear or a wolf.
• Head lamp – If you want to catch a stunning sunrise, a colorful sunset, or some epic stargazing, a good, comfortable head lamp is a MUST. Luckily, they’re not too expensive and once you buy one, you can just replace the batteries forever and ever (until the bulbs physically burn out). I like my Black Diamond head lamp for exploring in less-than-optimal lighting.
• Reusable water bottle & filter – We always bring our trusty reusable water bottle (Rafael and I both have Hydro Flask bottles that we LOVE) on our adventures to cut down on plastic waste and keep our water cold. Most of the time you should have plenty of access to clean, filtered tap water, but on long hikes you may need to refill at a stream or cascade. In this case, you’ll also want a water filter or purification system to ensure your water is always potable. We recommend the rechargeable SteriPen, which purifies your water using a portable UV light.
• Carabiners – These are always super useful to have while hiking or exploring. I use them to hang my water bottles, hats, shoes, wet clothes, etc. on the outside of my bag, and they work fantastically. You can literally just buy a pack of 20 carabiners and throw them in your hiking bag when you’re ready for an adventure.

Gear for Camping & Sleeping

• Durable camping gear – If you’re planning on camping, you’ll definitely want some high-quality camping gear to bring with you.
• Hammock – While definitely not a requirement, it’s really nice to have a hammock for relaxing after a long hike or at a riverside campsite. We have an ENO Double Nest (of course, in the brightest, most psychedelic colors they sell) and we basically live it in when we’re not in the car or the tent. It’s perfect for sharing between two people or snuggling up by yourself.

The Ultimate 10-Day Canadian Rockies Itinerary

Day 1: calgary to canmore.

On this day, we recommend arriving in Calgary and driving to Canmore, which is the first stop of our Canadian Rockies itinerary.

You do have the option of staying in the for a day and doing some hikes (which could be a really cool option, especially if the Calgary Stampede is going on).

While many people opt to go directly from Calgary to Banff, I chose to include Canmore because it’s often overlooked by tourists, but it actually is home to some of my favorite hikes and viewpoints in all of the Canadian Rockies. 

While often overshadowed by their northern neighbors (Banff and Jasper), Canmore and the Kananaskis area are, in my opinion, some of the most underrated adventure destinations in all of Alberta.

Striking mountaintops, amazing hiking trails, and beautiful alpine lakes will greet you as you explore Canmore, but you can expect smaller crowds here, even during the high season.

Morning: Arrival in Calgary

If you opt for a direct morning flight from anywhere in the USA or Canada, chances are you’ll most likely be arriving in Calgary Airport in the late morning or early afternoon. Once you’ve arrived, proceed through customs (if necessary) and grab your bags.

• For car rentals at the airport: From the arrivals area, follow signs to the main rental car area to pick up your car from your designated agency.
• For car rentals from downtown: Exit after baggage claim and grab a taxi (NOT a black car, these are 2-3x the price!). Make sure you have the address of your rental agency on hand and let the driver know where you’re going. If you’ve decided to rent from Avis (which we usually recommend), their shop is right next to the Calgary Tower.

Lunch in Calgary

After you leave the airport, I recommend grabbing some lunch in nearby Calgary before heading to Canmore.

Known for its ranching industry, Calgary is known around Canada for its meats. For some of the most delicious steaks in the city, Vintage Chophouse is a fantastic place to try. Since I’m not actually a steak person myself, my favorite dish there is the lobster mac and cheese , which is exactly the heavenly deliciousness it sounds like: large lobster chunks mixed in with a perfect blend of pasta and melted cheeses.

For a cheaper, vegetarian-friendly lunch option, The Coup is a fantastic choice. Their bright, open space and delicious, healthy lunch options are AMAZING. Share a Vegan Char”coup”terie board or order the Satay Bowl for lunch… you won’t be disappointed.

After lunch, if you have extra time to check out the city, explore some of the many things to do in Calgary !

Afternoon: Driving In & Exploring Canmore

After lunch, you’ll drive ~1 hour down the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) to Canmore. At first, you might think you’re in the wrong place, with flat farmlands for miles.

The plains eventually turn into rolling hills, and then…BAM… you’ll see it: the beautiful, majestic Canadian Rockies. At first just a faint outline on the horizon, they’ll eventually grow larger and bluer right before your eyes. 

It’s, like, ridiculously magical. 

For outdoor lovers, seeing the Canadian Rockies for the first time is kind of like the feeling you get when you see the Disney Castle. It’s magical, heart-wrenching, glorious. You might cry (I definitely did). Seeing the mountains and knowing that you’ll be spending the next 10 days there? Priceless.

Depending on how much time you have in Canmore before dinner, you can take a drive around the area and even hop on a short hiking trail (see the next section on Day 2 for some recommendations). You can also check into your accommodations (see below for our recommendations) and wander around the town center for a while.

Evening: Dinner at PD3 Blake Canmore 

Full disclosure: I’ve never eaten at Blake Canmore . BUT I have a good excuse — the TWO times I tried to go, it was either full with a wait (and I was hangry from hiking) or it was closed. You can choose to dine at Blake Canmore’s more traditional dining hall, but I’d recommend going for the more casual PD3, which is a double decker bus converted into a local dining institution (and the food smelled absolutely heavenly ).

Whatever you choose, don’t be like me: plan ahead and eat your first Canadian Rockies dinner at Blake.

Not only does the food look super drool-worthy (I think I could literally inhale their “crack fries” in approximately 2 seconds), but it’s also reasonably priced and the atmosphere is among the most unique in the region. They also have homemade ice cream flavors and signature drinks/cocktails in case you want to end your day 1 with a sweet treat!

Overnight in Canmore

You’ll spend (at least) the first two nights in Canmore, where hotels and hostels tend to be significantly cheaper than staying in nearby Banff. Here are some of our top recommendations for places to stay in the Canmore area:

• Mid-Range Hotel: The Georgetown Inn – Imagine an old-time pub and inn that magically plopped down in the middle of Canmore and you’ve got The Georgetown Inn. This adorable home-style inn is the perfect landing place for you after long days of hiking, since they boast large, comfy rooms and there’s an attached restaurant.
• Budget Hostel: HI-Canmore – Currently Canmore’s only hostel, HI-Canmore is a fantastic place to stay for budget travelers, solo travelers, and backpackers. With dorms and private rooms, HI-Canmore caters to a wide variety of travel preferences and budgets, while offering typical amenities like laundry, kitchen, and cooking supplies.
• Campsite: Bow Valley Campground – Situated right next to the Bow River and the nearby hiking trails, the Bow Valley Campground is the perfect base in Canmore. The campsites are spacious, the rangers are attentive, there are all of the necessary amenities, and the views are totally epic.

Check Additional Accommodation in Canmore

Day 2: Hiking in Canmore

As I say whenever anyone asks me, hiking is the best way to experience the Canadian Rockies , even if you’ve never hiked before or get serious anxiety when you think about climbing uphill (*raises hand and blushes*).

Whether you’ve been hiking since your childhood years or are hitting the trails for the first time ever, there are tons of picturesque hikes in Canmore (and ALL of the Canadian Rockies) suitable for your skill level and preferences.

On day 2 of your Canadian Rockies itinerary, you have a few options: choose 1-2 short hikes in Canmore, or embark on a longer half- or full-day hiking excursion in the area. I’ve listed several hikes, ranging from easy to challenging, in each of the categories below so you have LOTS of options to choose from!

Pro tip: Get started with hiking EARLY. While it will definitely be a little colder outside in the mornings, the most beautiful views of the Rockies happen when the sun is low in the sky, and you definitely won’t want to miss those ideal morning mountain photo opportunities.

Short Hikes in Canmore

Bow River Loop – (3.5 kilometers, 1-1.5 hours) This is a nice little trail that starts in Canmore town center and loops around to the Bow River. If you’ve arrived in Canmore early enough on Day 1 for a short hike, this is a perfect one to try. Stunning views of the river, evergreen forests, and the surrounding mountains will greet you.

Grotto Canyon – (4.4 kilometers, 1.5-3 hours) One of the most unique hikes in Canmore, the Grotto Canyon trail takes you through huge rock structures where local climbers can often be found scaling the vertical rock faces. The trail is surrounded by large rocks and ends at a waterfall.

Grassi Lakes – (4 kilometers, 1-2 hours) Grassi Lakes is one of Canmore’s iconic hikes and is a local favorite that’s perfect for hikers of all levels. The trail takes you to two deep turquoise alpine lakes surrounded by evergreen trees, and it’s a super tranquil place to go for a short morning hike.

Quarry Lake – (3 kilometers, < 1 hour) This family-friendly loop trail winds around the banks of Quarry Lake, offering beautiful views across the water toward the mountains. You can also swim in the lake if the weather is warm enough!

Half-Day Hikes in Canmore

Ha Ling Peak ( CLOSED UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE ) – (5.3 kilometers, ~4 hours) This is arguably one of the coolest and most picturesque summits in Canmore. But don’t let Ha Ling Peak’s short trail distance fool you: the hike is actually quite difficult, as you’ll ascend well over 800 meters in less than 3 kilometers. The peak itself rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the Bow Valley below.

Lady MacDonald Tea House – (9 kilometers, 4-6 hours) This hike, named after a tea house that was never actually built, is a gorgeous trail that has beautiful views start to finish. One of the more popular hikes in Canmore, this moderately difficult hike is a perfect half-day adventure for hikers looking for a bit of a challenge and the reward of stunning photogenic viewpoints.

Full-Day Hikes in Canmore

Mount Yamnuska – (11 kilometers, 6+ hours) By far, Mount Yamnuska is one of my favorite adrenaline-pumping, muscle-throbbing hikes in ALL of Canada! This 11-kilometer trail takes you through an evergreen forest, up a steep rocky scramble, around a chain cliffhanger (seriously), and up to the summit of this iconic Canmore peak. It’s a whopping 900+ meters of elevation gain, so be ready for some SERIOUS uphills and downhills if you choose to tackle this one.

Heart Mountain Horseshoe – (11 kilometers, 6+ hours) I haven’t actually hiked this one, but I’ve heard awesome things about it from friends back in Calgary. This is a moderate to difficult trail that involves a bit of rock scrambling towards the top. The views from the trail and the summit are said to be absolutely incredible.

When You Get Hungry: Breakfast or Lunch at Communitea

Depending on your schedule, you’ll be hungry eventually, and if you need a great stop for breakfast or lunch, I strongly recommend Communitea . It’s a little coffeeshop/cafe hybrid with delicious, healthy dishes and a cute, colorful atmosphere.

Head there for breakfast for a caffeine fix before a big hike, or pick up one of their hot drinks and a delicious, filling savory bowl for lunch after hitting the trails in the morning.

Evening: Dinner at Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co

A Western Canada chain, Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co is literally the perfect post-hiking meal. They’ve got a HUGE oven they use to bake their flatbreads, which come out nice and piping hot to your table. If you’re planning on going during the height of dinner time, I’d strongly recommend making a reservation.

When you check out the menu, you’ll see they have DOZENS of pizza and pasta options to choose from (I may be biased, but you should definitely try the sundried tomato pizza ). You can also grab a Canadian craft beer or a signature cocktail with your dinner.

You’ll spend the night in the same Canmore accommodation you chose on Day 1.

Day 3: Banff Town & Iconic Sights

I know I gave you a day full of hiking yesterday, so today, you’ll be taking it a bit more easy on the legs. You’ll drive the short distance to Banff National Park, explore the Banff Town area, eat a delightful dinner at one of my favorite restaurants in Banff, and end the night with some stargazing if it’s clear outside!

Morning: Drive to Banff & Breakfast at Tooloulou’s

Since you’ll be exploring the area near Banff Town today, you can choose what time you’ll want to head out. ( Banff is about a 30 minute drive from Canmore, so make sure you are in the car driving before you get struck with the iron fist of breakfast hanger. )

You’ll continue down the Trans-Canada Highway until you reach the Banff Entrance (which consists of small huts on each lane of the highway where you pay your entrance fee). Pay the fee, which is $9.80 CAD per adult, then continue driving alllll the way to Banff town.

Along the way, you’ll catch a glimpse of Canmore’s stunning Three Sisters and Banff’s Mount Rundle.

Once you arrive in Banff, head to Tooloulou’s , arguably the best traditional breakfast place in town. It’s a Louisiana-style Cajun restaurant with a Canadian flair. Here, you can get french toast, omelettes, and hashbrowns in HUGE (shareable) portions. It’s delicious, especially since I know you’ll be hungry by the time you arrive in Banff.

Late Morning/Afternoon: Explore Banff Town & Surrounding Areas

After you’ve wrapped up breakfast, you’ll hop back in the car and explore the Banff town area. You might be thinking,  Kay, I didn’t come to the Canadian Rockies to spend time in a town. But actually, Banff town is pretty small and picturesque, and it’s the town’s immediate surroundings that you’ll be getting to know on this day.

Depending on your energy levels and the amount of time you have, there are several options you can try. Here are a few of the main highlights in and around Banff Town:

Banff Gondola – One of the most fun and picturesque non-hiking activities in Banff is a ride on the Banff Gondola. While the ride is only ~8 minutes each way, the Gondola takes you up to a complex with an incredible panoramic observation deck, a cafe and restaurant, and amazing views for days. ( Pro tip: Head up on the Gondola later in the day when the sun is low in the sky for extra special views!)

Surprise Corner – The Surprise Corner is Banff’s worst kept secret, an unofficial viewpoint that has never *officially* been recognized as a landmark. As a roadside viewpoint just outside the city, the Surprise Corner is actually a popular place to stop off and admire views of the Bow Valley and the Banff Springs Hotel sticking up out of the trees. There are also several trails leading from the parking area around and into the valley below.

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – You’ve probably seen photos of the Fairmont Banff Springs all over the internet. If you’re looking for luxury and history all in one place, the Banff Springs Hotel is a fantastic landing spot for you. Situated in the scenic Bow Valley, the hotel boasts several restaurants, a spa, and several amenities for actual guests. However, if you just want to take a look, head there for a leisurely lunch in one of their dining spots.

Lake Minnewanka – Lake Minnewanka is one of my favorite places in Banff, if not for the sheer fact that there is SO much to do there. You can rent a kayak or take a boat cruise, wander the lakeside trails or sit down for a picnic. In the night time, you can even stargaze here! I’d recommend heading over there and seeing where the day takes you…but beware: you might end up spending your ENTIRE day here!

Bow River Falls – This is a short, easy hike down to a wide waterfall on the Bow River. It’s a nice, scenic, paved trail that is family-friendly and will take you near Banff town down the river.

Banff town center – If the weather is bad or you’re just too dang tired to do anything, sticking around in Banff town center is NOT a bad option. There are scenic mountain views from the streets, as well as a handful of restaurants, shops, and museums that you can check out to learn more about Banff’s history, including the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies.

If you have more than just 2 days to spend in Banff, here’s our complete guide to the park with a list of 23 amazing adventure activities to try:

Read our complete guide on the best activities & things to do in Banff

Evening: Dinner at Park Distillery & Stargazing

By the evening, you’ll probably be REALLY hungry and ready for a hearty, delicious meal in a relaxed place. I’ve got the perfect place to you: Park Distillery . Their mission is “campfire-inspired meals” and they really do play the part well, from char-grilled meats and steaks to the amazing smell of campfire inside and around the restaurant.

After your dinner, if you’re still a liiiiittle hungry, stop by Beaver Tails nearby for an amazing Canadian dessert: baked (fried?) dough topped with delicious sweet condiments like Nutella, M&Ms, cinnamon, and more.

If the sky is clear while you’re heading out from the restaurant, you can hop in the car and head to a nearby lake for some amazing stargazing opportunities. Outside of the town center, you can see a lot of stars and constellations in areas with little tree cover.

Here are a few beautiful spots in Banff I’d recommend for stargazing:

• Lake Minnewanka
• Vermilion Lakes
• Two Jack Lake

If it’s cloudy or rainy, just head back to your hotel/hostel and cozy up in your blankets. Tomorrow is a day of hiking so you can definitely use a good night’s sleep!

Overnight in Banff National Park

The blessing and the curse of Banff is that there are SO many places you can stay. And making a decision on where to stay in Banff can be a little overwhelming. So, here are my recommendations for a few popular places to stay (or you can read this post for the full list, from luxury lodges to budget hostels):

• Mid-Range Hotel: Moose Hotel & Suites –  This is possibly the cutest lodge in Banff, with a big wood fireplace in the lobby and stunning views of the Rockies. If you’re looking for an affordable full-service hotel option in Banff, this one is arguably the best.
• Budget Hostel: Samesun Banff –  A cozy hostel located in Banff’s downtown area, Samesun come highly recommend by budget travelers. People really love their laid-back atmosphere, low prices, and kitchen facilities (because, ya know, those restaurants can really add up!). 
• Camping: Two Jack Lakeside –  This is my #1 favorite campsite in the Canadian Rockies. Located right next to Two Jack Lake, the campsites offer stunning sunrise views of Mount Rundle, as well as amazing stargazing options. Campsites come with access to showers and running water, as well as fire pits (extra fee) and spacious areas to pitch your tent/hammock/whatever.

Click here to check reviews and prices for accommodations in Banff

Day 4: Hiking in Banff National Park

Yup, you guessed it: today is a full day dedicated to hiking! There are SO many fantastic trails in Banff, and it’s worth trying at least 1 or 2 of them before you leave. Before beginning any hike in Banff, it’s wise to   check the Parks Canada website   for updates on trail conditions and weather forecasts.

Morning & Afternoon: Go Hiking in Banff

Since we’ve got Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, and Johnston Canyon on the agenda for tomorrow, I’d recommend not choosing those for your hiking day today. Here are 3 other wonderful options for hikes in Banff that you can try on today’s itinerary:

Lake Minnewanka Loop Trail  (Easy): An easy loop around one of the most beautiful lakes in the area, the Lake Minnewanka Loop is a fabulous day hike for beginner hikers or families. If you didn’t get over to Lake Minnewanka yesterday, I’d definitely recommend this option!

Cascade Amphitheatre (Moderate): Cutting through a valley with rocky mountaintop views, forested trails, and bubbling streams, this hike is a tranquil adventure into the woods. The Amphitheatre itself is a green valley surrounded by vertical rock faces and almost 360-degree views of the surrounding mountains. 

Mount Rundle  (Difficult):  One of the most iconic mountains in Banff National Park, Mount Rundle is an amazing and challenging summit hike to the peak of this beast. If you’re planning to tackle this hike, be sure you’re fully prepared by reading this post and bringing all of the  necessary day hiking items  you’ll need.

For even more hiking recommendations, check out our complete guide to Banff’s most incredible hikes (for all levels of hikers!): 

When you’re not hiking and need some food/refreshments, I recommend heading to Good Earth Coffeehouse in Banff’s town center. It’s a cute, cozy coffee shop that serves warm drinks and food all morning and afternoon.

Evening: Soak in the Upper Hot Springs & Grab Dinner at Banff Ave Brewing Co

Once you’re done hiking for the day, head to the Banff Upper Hot Springs , which is just outside of Banff town. Here, you can kick back in the steaming hot pool and relax your muscles after a long day of hiking. The pool is clean and spacious, perfect for relaxing for an hour or two before heading off to dinner.

The Banff Upper Hot Springs costs $8.30 CAD for adults and you can rent a towel and/or swimsuit for $1.90 CAD each.

After your soak in the springs, grab some light eats and a beer at Banff’s craft brewery, Banff Ave Brewing Co . They serve up a delicious, affordable, vegetarian-friendly menu and a sizeable variety of beers, ranging from chocolatey darks (my style) to light, sour IPAs (Raf’s style). Get the crunchy fried broccoli and house nachos, or go for a heavier option like the Alberta Beef Burger or the Mushroom Gnocchi.

You’ll spend the night in the same Banff accommodation you chose on Day 3.

Day 5: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, & Johnston Canyon

This is one of the most iconic days in the itinerary, where you’ll be headed to the famous Moraine Lake (yup, the one you see in all those Instagram photos of Banff), Lake Louise, and Johnston Canyon.

But here’s the catch: this day starts EARLY.

If you can be out of the house by 5:30 AM or before sunrise, that’s ideal.

This way, you’ll avoid the treacherous crowds at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, and you can spend the afternoon strolling through Johnston Canyon (Or, like, napping in a tree from waking up so early. Both are acceptable.).

Early Morning: Moraine Lake

Set that alarm for 5 AM and grab a Clif bar to go for your breakfast as you leave your Banff hotel to drive ~40 minutes to the Lake Louise area.

You’ll see the iconic Lake Louise a bit later in the morning, but you’ll first want to drive up to nearby Moraine Lake to catch that epic sunrise view that EVERYONE AND THEIR MOTHER wants to see. 

The parking lot for Moraine Lake is pretty small, which is why I’m recommending getting up so early. When Rafael and I went there for the first time, we arrived around 6 AM and, while we weren’t the only people there, we had the place largely to ourselves.

Park in the parking lot and go for a stroll around the lake, or up onto the famed Rock Pile to get that incredible view that everyone raves about (there’s a reason why this is one of the most Instagrammed places in Banff ).

Morning: Breakfast & Hiking at Lake Louise

Once you’re finished at Moraine Lake, you can either head straight to Lake Louise or stop at Trailhead Cafe for a coffee and a bite to eat. Their “The Cure” sandwich is amazing to start (continue?) your day.

When you’re ready, head to Lake Louise and try to snag a parking spot as close to the entrance as possible. During the high season, the parking lot fills up and you have to park at a different one a few miles away and then shuttle in (which sucks, don’t do it).

If you get to Lake Louise early enough, you won’t have this problem. Instead, you can park right in front of the hotel and stroll right into the main lake area. Once you arrive at the lake, you’ll see the otherworldly turquoise water, the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, the amazing glacier, and striking mountains around you.

At Lake Louise, you have a few options. You can simply hang out around the hotel and the waterfront, or you can:

• Rent a kayak and explore the lake on the water
• Have brunch at Poppy Brasserie , the Fairmont’s breakfast restaurant which boasts table-side views of the lake and the surrounding mountains
• Do the Lake Agnes Tea House hike , which takes you up to a hidden alpine lake and a cozy tea house that serves warm drinks and snacks in the summer
• Embark on the Plain of Six Glaciers hike , which is a half-day hike that takes you to some pretty epic glaciers and landscapes around and above Lake Louise

If you’re planning on just stopping by Lake Louise, you won’t need more than an hour in the area. However, if you plan on doing any of the above activities, plan for 3-4 hours (5+ hours for the Plain of Six Glaciers hike).

Afternoon: Hiking at Johnston Canyon

After you’ve wrapped up at Lake Louise, you can head towards Johnston Canyon, which is a nearby trail system that travels through a beautiful, stark canyon with teal rivers and waterfalls running through it. If you’re hungry, at the entrance is a small gift shop and cafe where you can buy soups and sandwiches.

On the trails, there are a series of catwalks that take you through the canyon to two sets of waterfalls – the Upper and Lower Falls – and a lake area called the Ink Pots. At the Ink Pots, you can see multicolored pools of water that look really unique and cool for pictures.

You can choose to only visit one or both of the falls, but keep in mind that the total Johnston Canyon trail from the start to the Ink Pots is ~11.7 kilometers round trip.

Evening: Dinner at Bill Peyto’s Cafe

After your busy, busy day in the northern part of Banff, there’s nothing better than sitting down for a big, warm dinner. Bill Peyto’s Cafe is an affordable and popular choice in the Lake Louise area for exactly that.

Full disclosure: I’ve actually never eaten here , but I’ve heard raving reviews about this place, which is actually attached to the HI-Lake Louise Hostel . After a long day (which this one definitely was), it’s a great place to enjoy hearty, affordable Canadian food and drinks.

Try the elk burger with a side of Canadian craft beer , and don’t forget to try their famous hot sticky toffee pudding cake .

Overnight near Lake Louise

On this night, you can choose to stay in your same Banff accommodation as the last two days, OR you can relocate closer to Lake Louise. I tend to prefer the latter because tomorrow, you’ll be heading north toward the Icefields Parkway, and it will eliminate over half an hour of driving for you the next day. Gotta make up for the sleep you lost last night!

Here are a few options for places to stay near Lake Louise:

• Splurge Resort: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – I know I haven’t been giving many “splurge” recommendations for this itinerary, but if you’re going to splurge for ONE NIGHT on your trip, this is it. I’ve been dreaming of spending a night or two in the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise since the first time I visited, and I’ll be saving those pennies until I can do so one day. Anyway, if you’ve got the cash, there’s no better place to spend a night than this iconic hotel, which rests on the banks of Lake Louise itself.
• Mid-Range Hotel: Paradise Lodge & Bungalows – Perfect for larger groups, this family-friendly set of bungalows is located on the road to Lake Louise and offers large full kitchens in-unit. There’s no on-site restaurant, but the Lake Louise Visitor’s Centre isn’t far.
• Budget Hostel: HI-Lake Louise Alpine Centre – HI-Lake Louise Alpine Centre is located just outside of Lake Louise near the Visitor’s Centre. As another Hostelling International hostel, you can expect clean, cozy dorms and private rooms, large social areas and a kitchen, and affordable rates.
• Camping: Lake Louise – This tent camping spot is located right near Lake Louise and is the perfect place to spend a night in the area.

Day 6: Icefields Parkway

On Day 6, you’ll head up to Jasper via the most beautiful highway in the Canadian Rockies (and maybe in Canada…or the world…).

Nothing screams Canadian Rockies road trip more than driving its most scenic route, and today you’ll have the chance to do that, with a bunch of stops in between.

While the drive itself only takes ~3 hours, you’ll definitely want to stop for some photos, fresh air, hiking, and more. In this part of the itinerary, we’ve laid out all of your options for places to stop and things to do along the Icefields Parkway.

Morning: Alpine Lake Viewpoints

Grab an early breakfast to go at Trailhead Cafe in Lake Louise. I’d also recommend grabbing some extra sandwiches to go for lunch later, as you may not want to stop for food during your road trip.

Then, head out north on the Icefields Parkway towards Jasper. There are tons of amazing places to stop as you leave the Banff National Park area and turn into the Columbia Icefield.

First, stop at Peyto Lake, which is about 40 minutes from Lake Louise. Peyto Lake is a stunning turquoise lake that you can admire from its highway upper viewpoint, and it’s definitely worth at least a short photo stop before continuing onward. 

Late Morning & Afternoon: Choose Your Own Adventure

After you’ve stopped at Peyto Lake, you have a TON of options for things to do along the way. Here are just a few of the many hikes, activities, and viewpoints you can stop at along the Icefields Parkway:

Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre – The discovery centre sits off of the icefields parkway about an hour and a half away from the Jasper Information Centre. Here you can get some scenic views from the top of the centre and you can book excursions out into the icefields. If you are feeling hungry, grab a bite in the attached Altitude restaurant. If you are just passing by on the way to Jasper, plan to spend 30 minutes here for a quick pit stop.

Glacier Skywalk – Take a 400 m walk along a glass-bottomed walkway that overlooks the gorgeous Sunwapta Valley 280 meters below. Tickets for the attraction can be purchased at the nearby Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, which is about 6 km away towards Banff on the Icefields Parkway. Tickets cost $35 at the door, but you can pre-purchase them online for a slight discount. Plan to spend 30 minutes to an hour there.

Do a Glacier Walk – Take an Athabasca Glacier Tour where you can walk on and drink from the 10,000 year old sheet of ice. You’ll be taken out to the glacier on a huge all-terrain bus with a knowledgeable guide who will teach you about the area’s history. After arriving on the glacier, you’ll get to walk directly on the ice and explore crevasses and hills. Some tours are all day events (10 am – 5 pm), but you can find shorter trips at the Discovery Centre that are 3 hours in length.

Mistaya Canyon – If you are looking for a short half hour break while driving up to Jasper, consider stopping at Mistaya Canyon. Look for a small parking area about 5 km South from the Saskatchewan Crossing. You’ll take a short 10 minute hike that crosses a wooden bridge where you can see beautiful views of the mountains and waterfalls surrounding Mistaya Canyon. This spot is not as well known to many tourists, so it’s a good peaceful place to stop on your way to Jasper or Banff.

Herbert Lake – Herbert Lake is only 6 km away from Lake Louise along the Icefields parkway. Similarly to Mistaya Canyon, looks for a small pull-out area next to the highway where you can park your car. A short 5 minute trail will take you to a brilliant, scenic view of a tranquil, mirrored lake. You’ll have the option of following the trail around the perimeter of the lake if you choose, or simply enjoy the serenity and tranquility of this secluded area.

Chephren Lake – Stop off at the trailhead for Chephren Lake, one of my favorite lakes on the Icefields Parkway. You have to hike in ~3 hours round trip to get there, but I promise the views are totally worth it. By the time you finish up with Chephren Lake, it should be early afternoon and you’ll be ready to continue on to the rest of the Icefields Parkway.

Parker Ridge – About an hour and half from Lake Louise, Parker Ridge offers unparalleled views of the Icefields and Saskatchewan Glacier. The hike is a short 2.7 km that climbs 250 m. You’ll be above the treeline for the majority of the hike. Set aside about 2 hours for the entire round trip. Parking is limited.

Evening: Dinner at Evil Dave’s Bar & Grill in Jasper

For a cozy dine-in experience, Evil Dave’s Bar & Grill is a local favorite. With eclectic decor and delicious, large dishes, it’s a really awesome choice for a post-road trip dinner in Jasper.

They serve up Western Canadian favorites, like Tenderloin and Grilled Chicken sourced from Alberta, but they’ve also got a whole list of amazing vegetarian and vegan options as well.

Overnight in Jasper

• Mid-Range Hotel: Pyramid Lake Resort – This resort looks like a giant log cabin from the outside and sits right next to a lake. Guests will have scenic views of the mountains and can dip their feet in the water just a couple of feet from the hotel.
• Budget Hostel: Jasper Downtown Hostel – With dorms and private rooms, the Jasper Downtown Hostel is the best place for backpackers in Jasper. It offers all the proper amenities of a hostel, including common areas, a shared kitchen, and laundry machines on-site.
• Campsite: Wapiti Campsite –  Wapiti is located next to the Athabasca river and offers gorgeous views of the mountains. The site includes access to hot showers, electricity, and fire pits. It is also close to the main town so you can make quick runs for supplies.

Day 7: Hiking in Jasper

Day 7 is all about exploring Jasper by foot! ( Do you like how I’ve left a whole day in every destination on this itinerary for hiking? Yeah…I kind of like hiking… ) There are several hikes in Jasper for hikers of all levels, from “never hiked before” beginners to experienced mountaineers.

Today, you’ll spend most of the day hiking, then you’ll relax in the hot springs before treating yourself to dinner in one of Jasper’s best restaurants.

Morning & Afternoon: Hiking in Jasper

Like I mentioned, there are dozens of hikes you can try in Jasper ranging from easy, flat trails to rock scrambles. I’ve listed out some of the most popular ones for you here so you can choose 1-2 and plan your day:

Easy Hikes in Jasper

Maligne Canyon:  (Easy, 3.9 kilometers) An easy, short hike, Maligne Canyon brings you through a striking canyon, passing by ranging rivers and breathtaking waterfalls in the process. Perfect for families or beginner hikers wanting to see some of the most awesome views in the park!

Valley of the Five Lakes: (Easy, 4.5 kilometers) The magic of the Valley of the Five Lakes trail is exactly what it sounds like: five gorgeous, picturesque lakes with the Canadian Rockies lying majestically in the background. It’s perfect for beginner hikers wanting an easy half-day adventure on one of the most tranquil and iconic Jasper hiking trails.

Moderate/Challenging Hikes in Jasper

Edith Cavell Meadows: (Moderate, 6 kilometers) Edith Cavell Meadows is one of the most popular trails in Jasper, and for good reason – it’s got a bit of everything, from mountain views to alpine meadows to hanging glaciers and more. The first part of the path is paved, leading you to a lookout point over Angel Glacier. After the lookout point, the trail continues ascending, and the path leads to two more viewpoints – most people (myself included) choose to stop at the second one.

Bald Hills: (Challenging, 13.2 kilometers) As one of the most popular full-day Jasper hikes, Bald Hills is an amazing and challenging trail that will bring you up to some of those drop-dead gorgeous views you see in the postcards. This summit hike is one of the best hikes you can do in the park, and we highly recommend it if you’re up for the challenge. 

If you’re in need of some food for fuel or relaxation, head to Coco’s Cafe in downtown Jasper. They serve amazing coffee beverages and snacks for hungry hikers (including some seriously mouth-watering vegetarian and vegan items), and their prices are affordable.

Evening: Dinner at Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen

For the perfect smoky, rich, locally sourced meal, there’s no better place in Jasper to try than the Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen . Located next to the Maligne Canyon trailhead, this small, charming restaurant embodies the spirit of Canadian Rockies gastronomy, with locally sourced meats and produce. 

If you’re super tired from the trails, you can also grab their mouth watering dishes to go, but why not stick around and enjoy the fresh smells and flavors in-house?

You’ll spend the night in the same Jasper accommodation you chose on Day 6.

Day 8: Jasper Town & Iconic Sights

After your big day of hiking yesterday, you’ll take it a little bit easier on Day 8. However, you’ll start your morning super early with a beautiful sunrise view, head to one of the most picturesque lakes in ALL of Jasper, and then explore the area surrounding Jasper town before heading toward Yoho National Park.

Early Morning: Sunrise at Pyramid Lake

You’ll head out before 6 AM (check the sunrise forecast on your Weather app for a more accurate departure time) to Pyramid Lake.

This dramatic lake is home to a towering mountain peak, a beautiful blue lake, evergreen forests, and a large wooden lodge.

You should get there when the sky is still a deep navy blue, but just bundle up and wait for the sunrise. If it’s clear enough outside, you should start to see the faint hues of pink and red slowly start to paint the mountain face (like the photo I took a few years ago below). 

If you’re looking for an alternative view, nearby Patricia Lake is also a really lovely place to watch the sun as it peeks over the horizon. Patricia Lake’s water is a lot more still than the water at Pyramid Lake, creating a gorgeous “mirror lake” effect.

Head back to Jasper town center to grab a quick coffee and breakfast at Coco’s Cafe (or another one of Jasper’s coffeeshops!). 

Morning: Maligne Lake

From Jasper town center, it’s a bit of a drive to arrive at Maligne Lake. However, once you’re there, you can spend the rest of the morning simply wandering around the area, doing a nearby hike or getting out on the water.

Here are a few ways to spend your morning in Maligne Lake:

Admire Spirit Island – One of the famous views in Jasper is Spirit Island, a tiny, evergreen-filled island jutting out into the middle of Maligne Lake. It’s super picturesque amidst the backdrop of the clear, turquoise waters of Maligne Lake, and makes for a super picturesque spot to spend the morning.

Take a boat tour – There are a handful of motorized boat tours that travel through the Maligne Lake area, and you can book one very easily. If you’re feeling tired from all of your travel (I understand, this itinerary is SUPER jam-packed!), opt for a relaxing boat cruise around the beauty of the lake.

Kayak around the lake – If you’re looking for an active alternative to the boat cruise, you can rent a kayak and explore around the lake yourself!

Go hiking – There are tons of trails and hiking areas that extend from Maligne Lake up into the nearby mountains.

Early Afternoon: Explore the Jasper Town Area

Now that you’ve spent virtually the entire morning outside, you’ll return to Jasper town center and enjoy some of the more laid-back attractions in the area.

Since you won’t have a TON of time to do things in Jasper town, here are a few suggestions for things you can do with 2-3 hours:

Ride the Jasper Skytram – The Jasper Skytram brings you close to the top of Whistlers Mountain. There’s a sizeable observation deck and an area where you can grab food and drinks. Or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, hop on the hiking trail near the platform to reach the summit of the mountain.

Go cycling on Jasper’s bike paths – Rent a bike at Vicious Cycle Canada and hit the trails! There are plenty of bike trails in and around Jasper’s town center where you can explore on wheels.

Visit the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum  – Located in the center of Jasper, the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum discusses how Jasper’s community began, and provides important historical context to the area that’s now largely known for its natural beauty and adventure activities.

For our entire list of things to do in and around Jasper town, check out the complete guide:

Click here to read our complete guide to things to do in Jasper

Late Afternoon & Evening: Drive to Yoho National Park

The drive to Yoho, your next stop, takes 3.5-4 hours, and since you’ve already made your stops on the Icefields Parkway, you can drive it straight. However, I’d plan to leave Jasper no later than 2 PM to make sure you have plenty of daylight to drive all the way to Yoho. 

Once you’re in Yoho, you’ll actually stay in Field, the town of Yoho. There, you can grab dinner (I recommend Truffle Pigs Bistro & Lodge ) before settling in to your accommodation for the night.

Overnight in Field (Town of Yoho National Park)

• Mid-Range Hotel: Truffle Pigs Lodge – This 12-room inn is a small, comfortable, mid-range hotel option. With private rooms and bathrooms and an attached restaurant, it’s the perfect full-service accommodation option for Yoho. It’s also located in the heart of the tiny town of Field, perfect for access to all of the main park attractions.
• Budget Hostel: Fireweed Hostel – Built into a two-story log cabin, this cozy hostel is the perfect backpacker lodge for budget travelers in Yoho. Located in the town of Field, it’s an easy drive from most of the park’s main attractions, and there are typical hostel amenities like communal hangout space and a kitchen. It’s perfect for backpackers and solo travelers!
• Campsite: Kicking Horse Campground – A well-maintained, quiet campsite in Yoho National Park, Kicking Horse Campground offers campers a place to rest their heads (and shower, and get access to running water) from late June to October.

Day 9: Hiking & Sightseeing in Yoho National Park

Today is your full day in Yoho National Park, which is the smallest Canadian Rockies park and one of the most easily overlooked stops on any Canadian Rockies itinerary.

It’s actually in British Columbia, so it’s often not listed on “places to visit in Alberta” lists. But it’s equally, if not more, beautiful than its neighbors. 

In fact, the word “yoho” in Cree, a local indigenous language, means something like “WOW!!!!” When you see it, you’ll probably agree that Yoho National Park is definitely deserving of such a high honor.

On Day 9 of your Canadian Rockies road trip, you’ll take the full day to explore Yoho. Banff is just a short drive (~40 minutes) away, so you can hang out here until about dinner time and then head over to Banff to spend the night.

FYI: Yoho doesn’t actually fully open all of its roads until late June, so you may need to modify your Canadian Rockies road trip plans if you come earlier in the season.

Morning: Takkakaw Falls and Emerald Lake

Takkakaw Falls is the second highest waterfall in Western Canada and is a super spectacular spot to head to in the morning. The access road is only open from June through early fall, so unfortunately if you are headed to the Canadian Rockies in the spring, you won’t be able to see the fall at that time.

To get to the end of the falls, you’ll need to take a trail, which is only ~1.5 kilometers. Once you arrive at the base of the falls, you can stand close enough to feel the cool water sprinkle your face. Cool (literally), huh?

Next, head to Emerald Lake, a stunning alpine lake in Yoho not far from Field. Here, the f ine sediment from the glaciers sits in the water and gives it its characteristic emerald color after which it is named. You can rent a kayak here or hike the 5.3 kilometer loop trail around the lake!

Afternoon: Lake O’Hara

Lake O’Hara is an alpine lake, and is one of the main sights in Yoho National Park. It’s definitely worth the long journey it takes to get there.

Situated at 2000m in elevation, you need to hike up a trail in order to get there (but you may be able to pay to take a shuttle down back to the parking lot during the summer months. Note, however, that this is not a guarantee!)

Advance reservations are required to go up to the lake, however, you are still able to hike the 11 km up to the top even if you weren’t able to get a bus reservation.

If you don’t get a bus reservation, you will have to hike back down the 11 kilometers you came (which means this will easily turn into a full-day excursion!). However, if you are able to take the bus back down, plan to be around Lake O’Hara for 4-5 hours. (If you have to hike both ways, plan for 6-7 hours.)

Evening: Dinner in Banff 

For your last dinner, you’ll head back to Banff’s town center. You can eat at one of your favorite restaurants from before, or opt for a bit more of a “fine dining” experience at one of these Banff local restaurants:

Saltlik – Enjoy a nice quality steak dinner at one of Banff’s premier steakhouses. There is a separate bar area for drinks. The restaurant has a great selection of side dishes. Try the mac and cheese!

The Bison – This picturesque dining establishment features wood-fired inspired food, and their dishes are LITERALLY to die for. For meat lovers, choose between ribs, bison, duck, or trout. Vegetarian dishes are also available. And, of course, before you leave Canada, you’ve got to try their poutine!

You’ll be back in Banff for your final night of this Canadian Rockies itinerary, so enjoy it! Again, here are my recommendations – the same ones as before – for a few popular places to stay (or you can read this post for the full list, from luxury lodges to budget hostels):

Day 10: Return to Calgary

It’s the last day of your Canadian Rockies itinerary, and sadly you’ll have to return back to your normal life soon. But before you go, you’ll spend one last blissful morning amidst the peaks and forests before heading back to Calgary.

Morning: Sunrise at Vermilion Lakes

Wake up early (before 6 AM) and head to Vermilion Lakes for your final morning in the Canadian Rockies. This is THE sunrise spot, and we left this for the last day so that you can enjoy one last morning of tranquil mountain magic before heading back to the real world (*sobs*).

Even on misty mornings, the sunrise here can be quite beautiful, so I’d recommend going even if it looks cloudy outside. Park in the parking lot at Vermilion Lakes and walk into the shore area, where you can sit and enjoy a warm drink or just listen to the sounds of the morning.

It’s here where you’ll bid farewell to Banff and the Canadian Rockies and all of your amazing memories you’ve just made over the last 10 days. From personal experience, I will say that this place really sticks with you, forever. The landscapes of the Canadian Rockies have truly made an impression on me that my heart will always yearn for.

Returning to Calgary

You’re finally reaching the end of your Canadian Rockies road trip. (Sad face emoji!)

Depending on what time your flight is scheduled to depart, you’ll need to make your way back to Calgary. When you’re ready, dry your eyes and hop in the car, taking the Trans-Canada Highway all the way back to the city. Drop off your rental car wherever you picked it up, head back to the airport, and bid those incredible mountain vistas adieu .

Feeling some serious post-Rockies depression already? Well then you’ll just have to plan another trip up here! There are LOADS MORE things to do in the Canadian Rockies than we had time for in this itinerary, and until then, you can drift off to sleep at night with visions of the snow-capped rocky peaks and magical turquoise lakes dancing around in your mind…

Other Places to Visit on a Canadian Rockies Itinerary

If you’re one of the lucky ones who actually has more time in the Canadian Rockies than 10 days, read on for a few more areas you can add to your Canadian Rockies itinerary:

Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park (along with its US neighbor, Glacier) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Peace Park. This Alberta national park consists of a giant glacial lake system surrounded by mountains, and it rests on the Canadian border with Montana. Its a bit far from the rest of the parks on our itinerary, but it’s definitely a worthwhile addition to any Canadian Rockies road trip!

Like its northern neighbors, Waterton Lakes is full of amazing, spectacular views and hiking trails, including its famed Triple Crown hiking challenge. To learn more about Waterton Lakes and the hiking trails there, visit our complete guide:

Kootenay National Park

Kootenay National Park , located in British Columbia, is another lesser-known Canadian Rockies national park. Located southwest of Banff National Park, you can experience all kinds of beautiful hiking trails here, with amazing, breathtaking alpine lakes and mountain passes to explore. It’s not far from the rest of the places on this Canadian Rockies itinerary and would be the perfect addition if you have a few extra days to spend in the region.

I haven’t actually personally been to Kootenay National Park, but this guide to 25 things to do in Kootenay is an excellent starting point if you’d like to explore the area.

Additional Canadian Rockies Travel Resources

Phew! If you’ve made it this far, congratulations. You’ve literally gotten your hands on all of the information you need for all of the stops on this itinerary. However, we do have even MORE detailed guides on each of the stops in the Canadian Rockies on our website and beyond.

The below resources (both our guides and the external ones) are all really helpful for learning more about the attractions at each stop on this itinerary, or for adding activities and extending your trip.

Have a look and remember — these are ALL just our recommendations. Doing more research on the area enables you to make your Canadian Rockies itinerary the perfect one for YOU!

Our favorite (external) Canadian Rockies travel resources:

• Lonely Planet: Banff, Jasper, and Glacier National Parks – If you’re into physical guidebooks to take with you when you travel, this is the ultimate companion to our Canadian Rockies itinerary. The Lonely Planet guide to Banff, Jasper, and Glacier has all the information you need to get around, find a nice place to stay, and book tours for the adventures you want to try.
• Moon Canadian Rockies – Another comprehensive print guidebook about Banff, Jasper, and more! It never hurts to have more than one, right?
• Parks Canada Website – This website is the ultimate resource for up-to-date information about the national parks in Canada. Here, you can find out about road and trail closures, construction occurrences, weather warnings, and more.
• To Banff and Beyond – A wonderful Banff-focused travel blog which includes several tips, hikes, and activities to do in the Canadian Rockies area!

10 Days in the Canadian Rockies Itinerary: Read Next

All of our own guides, tips, and misadventures in the Canadian Rockies

• Incredible Hikes in Canmore
• 23 Incredible Things to Do in Banff National Park
• Where to Stay in Banff National Park
• 17 Spectacular Things to Do in Jasper National Park

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I’m Kay. I’m originally from small town Virginia, but have moved all around the East Coast and the United States for basically my entire life. I spent my childhood days blissfully wandering through the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling in leaves, playing in creeks…you know, the usual overly adventurous 5-year-old stuff.

But those early years spent outside gave me a real problem: I’m now an adventure addict. Basically, if I’m not at my computer banging out articles or photos, I’m probably out hiking, biking, or camping somewhere beautiful.

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Hey – What an amazing blog, thank you so much.

If you had an extra 3-4 days, where would you spend them? Additional destinations or adding more days to places like Banff and Jasper?

Thank you SO MUCH (!) for putting this together. I am planning a canadian rockies road trip with my dad this summer and this is perfect. I honestly dreaded planning a bit because I know how much there is to do / see and to think of but this just made my life so much easier and now I can’t wait!

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Canadian Rockies Road Trip Loop: Detailed 9 to 12 Day Itineraries + Map

Want to explore both sides of the Canadian Rockies (Alberta and British Columbia) and drive a circular road trip route? This Canadian Rockies road trip loop may be the perfect choice for you!

Road trippers can easily ‘join’ the loop from either Calgary or Vancouver, Western Canada’s two biggest cities. Car rentals are usually much cheaper when picking up and dropping off at the same location.

This Canadian Rockies loop route is easy to combine with other BC road trip destinations, such as the Okanagan Valley , Slocan Valley ( hot springs ) and the Columbia Valley (Radium, Invermere).

JR and I have been exploring the Canadian Rockies (and surrounding mountain ranges) for more than a decade.

This road trip route is very similar to one I recently organised for my parents, who were visiting from the UK. I wanted them to see the most iconic sights in the Canadian Rockies and also some quieter, off-the-beaten-track locations as well.

This detailed guide includes a day-by-day overview of the entire Canadian Rockies loop road trip itinerary, as well as planning tips to help save you money (and stress!) along the way.

Here’s what to expect:

Road trip itinerary at a glance

Need to know info.

• Exploring Banff
• Banff National Park
• Banff to Jasper
• Jasper National Park
• Jasper to Valemount
• Valemount to Kamloops
• Kamloops to Revelstoke
• Revelstoke to Golden
• Golden to Banff

Camping details

• Alternative itineraries

More planning resources

Published December 2023. This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of these links, we may receive a small percentage of the sale. All prices in this post are Canadian dollars.

Canadian Rockies Loop road trip overview

Time to start planning a Canadian Rockies loop road trip! This section of the guide provides an overview of the itinerary with a map and some important need-to-know information

Before we go any further, here is a look at the entire 9 road trip itinerary from start to finish (there is a 12 day version later in the guide):

Day 1 : Banff* Day 2: Banff Day 3: Banff to Jasper Day 4: Jasper Day 5: Jasper to Valemount

Day 6: Valemount to Kamloops Day 7: Kamloops to Revelstoke Day 8: Revelstoke to Golden Day 9: Golden to Banff**

*If beginning in Calgary, add 126km (90 minutes) drive from city. From Vancouver, drive directly to Revelstoke and start the itinerary mid-way through day 7 . **If finishing in Calgary, add 126km (90 minutes) drive back to the city

If one glance at this routing makes you think ‘way too fast!’ then I suggest looking at the alternative itineraries noted at the bottom of the page.

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

Canadian Rockies loop road trip map

• This Canadian Rockies road trip route can be explored in either direction, though I would recommend counter-clockwise (and the itinerary below is written in that direction) to ensure you can visit certain places early in the day
• The best time to drive this road trip is July to September . June can also be a good time, though some activities and trails will have limited accessibility at this time
• This itinerary is relatively fast-paced . If you choose to do most of the activities listed, you will likely be busy all day
• Need more downtime? Stretch this itinerary over a longer period or skip some of the activities/stops
• The route and suggested activities are aimed at people who enjoy exploring nature and being active while on vacation
• Please keep in mind that this Canadian Rockies road trip route offers just a taste of the activities and hiking trails on offer in these locations. It is impossible to do everything in such a relatively short road trip
• Before you leave home , learn how to avoid negative bear encounters and basic outdoor safety . If you see a bear while driving, stay in your vehicle!
• When exploring , be sure to always Leave No Trace (dispose of trash properly, stay on established trails, don’t feed wildlife)
• More tips and advice in our BC trip planning guide

Day-by-day Canadian Rockies loop road trip guide

Read on to discover a detailed breakdown of this Canadian Rockies loop road trip itinerary, including where to stay and what to do each day.

Day 1: Banff

Calgary to Banff driving distance: 127km Driving time without activities : 1 hour 30 minutes

*If beginning in Calgary, add 126km (90 minutes) drive from the city. If beginning in Vancouver, drive directly to Revelstoke and read the itinerary from day 7

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

For many people, visiting spectacular Moraine Lake and Lake Louise is a priority. I’ve put them on the schedule for day 2.

My top picks for things to do in and around Banff Townsite:

• Explore the shores of Two Jack Lake and then cruise the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive (24km). Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Walk the shoreline trail or consider renting a canoe ($85/hour)
• The best free vehicle-accessible viewpoint is the Mt Norquay Lookout . It’s completely free and offers amazing vistas of Banff and surrounding peaks
• Thrill seekers will love the Via Ferrata course at Mt Norquay! The experience offers a safer way to experience climbing in the Rockies (and the views are AMAZING)
• Feel like a hike? The 2km uphill trail to the top of Tunnel Mountain is well worth the effort (300m elevation gain) as it ascends the slopes of this prominent landmark

• If that sounds like too much, reserve a spot on the Banff Gondola that ascends to the top of Sulphur Mountain . The views are simply spectacular. I’d recommend taking the bus (route 1) to avoid having to find parking at the gondola base
• Explore downtown Banff and enjoy the views of the surrounding mountains while browsing the wide range of shops
• If the shopping area doesn’t appeal, take a walk along the Bow River to see the falls . If you have the time, continue to the Surprise Lookout , which features views of the iconic Fairmont hotel

Side note here regarding accommodation. It’s no secret that Banff is not a cheap place to stay.

If your budget doesn’t stretch to it, consider the nearby town of Canmore instead (still touristy but more of a local vibe, slightly lower prices).

Where to stay

Budget Our preferred Banff campground for tent camping is Tunnel Mountain Village 1 . The sites are relatively private and the campground is just a short bus ride away from downtown

Mid-range Our favourite downtown hotel is Moose Hotel & Suites (walking distance to everywhere, rooftop hot tub). In Canmore , the Pocaterra Inn offers one of the best value stays in town

Luxury For a once-in-a-lifetime visit to Banff, consider the Fairmont Banff Springs or the Rimrock Resort . The latter has truly incredible views across Banff and the surrounding mountains

Day 2: Explore Banff National Park

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

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

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

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

In addition to spectacular lakeshore views, both lakes have great hiking opportunities.

Lake Agnes is a very popular destination from Lake Louise, 7.4km return with 390m elevation gain (allow 2 to 2.5 hours, note that it is uphill almost the entire way).

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

Day 3: Banff to Jasper via Icefields Parkway

Banff to Jasper driving distance: 290km Driving time without activities : 3 hours 40 minutes

Depart Banff early to visit Johnston Canyon (32km, 35 minutes drive). Suspended metal walkways provide secure passage through the deep gorge to a series of waterfalls.

The 2.4km return hike to the Lower Falls takes less than 1 hour. The Upper Falls are 5km return. Johnston Canyon is usually very busy from 10am onwards, so I would recommend getting here by 9am at the latest.

Make a stop in Lake Louise for gas and supplies before hitting the road to drive Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) along the Continental Divide.

Often cited as one of the best road trips in the world, the Icefields Parkway is lined with towering mountains and immense glaciers, providing jaw-dropping vistas no matter where you look.

Driving the 230km Icefields Parkway without stopping takes around three hours. To visit most of the mentioned stops, allow five to six hours. Plan to arrive into Jasper early in the evening.

My favourite roadside viewpoints are Crowfoot Glacier , Bow Lake, Waterfowl Lake , Weeping Wall , the Big Bend , Tangle Creek Falls and the Goats and Glacier Lookout (all are featured on our road trip map ).

My recommendations for must-see places are:

• Bow Lake – Take a walk along the lakeshore of this beautiful vibrant blue lake surrounded by dramatic mountains
• Peyto Lake – Uphill 1km return trail (mostly paved) to an elevated viewpoint over a gorgeous turquoise lake
• Wilcox Pass Trail to Viewpoint – 3.4km return uphill hike to lower viewpoint (red chairs) over Athabasca Glacier, 9.5km return for upper viewpoint
• Sunwapta Falls – 200m walk to Upper Falls, featuring a bridge viewpoint of a dramatic waterfall cascading into a deep limestone gorge
• Athabasca Falls – Powerful waterfall accessible within a very short walk of the parking area, optional side trail into the canyon (well worth the stairs!)

Jasper is half the size of Banff. With two nights here, you’ll be able to see some of the park’s most impressive sights and also enjoy the charm of the compact townsite.

Budget Campers have a choice of campgrounds in Jasper – we usually stay at Whistlers Campground , which was completely renovated a few years ago

Mid-range The Mount Robson Inn is a solid downtown accommodation pick, with free breakfast and a range of room configurations (great for families/larger groups)

Luxury Treat yourself with a stay at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge . The upscale resort is located on a 700-acre lakeside property with spa, heated pool, golf course and restaurants

Day 4: Explore Jasper National Park

Driving distance: 103km Driving time without activities : 2 hours 30 minutes

Jasper National Park is Canada’s largest, with the small town of Jasper at the centre of it all.

• Start your day early with a drive on the scenic Pyramid Lake Road (15km return, 30 minutes)
• Elk are very commonly seen on this narrow and winding road that first passes Patricia Lake before skirting the edge of Pyramid Lake itself
• Take a short walk on Pyramid Island and enjoy the views of Pyramid Mountain before returning to Jasper and heading to magnificent Maligne Lake (50km one-way)
• Pre-book a cruise to Spirit Island , one of Canada’s most iconic and spectacular sights

Yes, the cruise is super touristy but there’s no other way to see the true beauty of Maligne Lake in such a short amount of time ( paddling to Spirit Island takes around 6-8 hours return).

• On your way back to Jasper, stop at the Medicine Lake Viewpoint. This glacier-fed lake is famous for its ‘disappearing’ water.
• The second to last destination of the day is Maligne Canyon . There is a choice of loop and out-and-back routes here. The easiest is a very short 600m loop to Bridge #2 featuring impressive views of the rushing water and deep canyon
• For a longer experience, consider the hilly 5km out-and-back route to Bridge #5 . It includes numerous impressive viewpoints and even several waterfalls. There is a loop alternative but it’s less scenic as the path veers away from the canyon
• Before leaving the Maligne Lake Road area, check out the gorgeous views from the Maligne Lookout. The parking lot is the next right-hand turn after leaving Maligne Canyon

Day 5: Jasper to Valemount

Jasper to Valemount driving distance (via Mount Edith Cavell): 183km Driving time without activities : 3 hours 10 minutes

The drive between Jasper and Valemount is scenic and straightforward, though there are not many easily accessible roadside activities. For that reason, I would recommend spending your morning in Jasper National Park.

There are so many options for what you could do this morning but my top pick would be seeing Mount Edith Cavell and the Angel Glacier that flows down its north face.

The narrow and winding 27km Edith Cavell Road takes around 45 minutes to drive from Jasper. If you had more time to spare, I would suggest exploring the Edith Cavell Meadows Trail as well.

• Leaving Jasper, prepare to gain an hour at the British Columbia border (hooray!)
• Make a stop at beautiful Overlander Falls . Allow 30 minutes to walk to the main viewpoint and back
• Just around the next corner is Mount Robson , the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies (3954m). The best views are found right in the parking lot
• The Mount Robson Visitor Centre has some great indoor exhibits (and it is free!) and there’s a good café here as well
• Less than 10 minutes drive further on from Mount Robson is Rearguard Falls Provincial Park . A steep and short trail leads down to several viewing platforms of this thundering waterfall

Turning onto Highway 5 towards Valemount reveals views of the ‘other’ side of the Canadian Rockies.

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

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

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

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

Day 6: Valemount to Kamloops

Valemount to Kamloops driving distance (via Wells Gray): 412km Driving time without activities : 5 hours

Start your morning with a couple of hours of driving through the lush North Thompson Valley.

The star attraction of this day is Wells Gray Provincial Park , one of BC’s most spectacular protected areas. It is a little more rustic (and much quieter!) than the national parks.

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

Once in Clearwater, turn onto Clearwater Valley Road and prepare for 2-3 hours of waterfall chasing!

• Spahats Creek Falls – 60m high narrow waterfall cascading into deep, wide canyon. It’s just a short walk from the parking lot
• Moul Falls . Optional stop since it is only accessible via a 6km return hike (half easy, half moderate). Short waterfall in rocky bowl
• Dawson Falls. Reminiscent of a small-scale Niagara Falls, this waterfall stretches wide across the river. 900m return
• The Mushbowl – Fast, frothy and rocky waterfall by roadside, just after Dawson Falls parking lot
• Helmcken Falls – Magnificent 141m high waterfall plunging into a rugged canyon. Short walk from the large parking lot

Beyond Helmcken Falls, the road is unpaved. For travellers with more time, the Ray Farm Trail is a pleasant 3km return (homesteading history, interesting mineral springs). The 1.6km return trip to Bailey’s Chute Trail combines both waterfalls and rapids.

Leaving Wells Gray Provincial Park, the drive to Kamloops is pretty straightforward. Watch for the Canadian Mountaineer train on the parallel tracks!

Kamloops has a wide choice of accommodation and eateries. An alternative overnight destination would be Salmon Arm. The drive would take around an hour longer.

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

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

Luxury For upscale lodgings in the downtown area, book a stay at the Delta Hotel . The location is convenient for restaurants and also when arriving from Highway 5

Day 7: Kamloops to Revelstoke

K amloops to Revelstoke driving distance: 212km Driving time without activities : 2 hours 30 minutes

Kamloops is situated in British Columbia’s dry grasslands region and consequently, the landscape looks very different to anything else on this Canadian Rockies loop road trip.

I don’t have that many recommendations for must-see stops between Kamloops and Revelstoke – plan to spend most of your time in Revelstoke itself.

• Monte Creek Winery is worth a look if you reach it after 11am
• On a hot day, the Blind Bay beaches on Shuswap Lake can be great for a refreshing dip
• Salmon Arm makes for an excellent lunch stop. The DeMille’s Farm Market sells fresh produce from the Shuwap region throughout the summer months
• Just past Sicamous is D Dutchmen Dairy , a family farm selling homemade ice cream, cheese and milk. Note that it does get very busy around lunchtime
• The drive along Highway 1 from Sicamous to Revelstoke has plenty of pretty sections but not many places to stop. One of our favourite rest areas is the Last Spike , a historical site celebrating the completion of the railway connecting eastern and western Canada

Arriving in Revelstoke sometime in the early afternoon, I’d suggest making the most of the day with a scenic drive on the 26km long Meadows in the Sky Parkway into the subalpine of Mount Revelstoke National Park (park pass required).

At the end of the road, there is an uphill 1km long trail to the summit area (1947m). If you’ve never visited the top of a mountain, this is a great way to do it. There is a choice of short trails, all with interpretive signage.

If you’re travelling with kids, you may want to prioritise visiting Revelstoke Mountain Resort instead, home of the 42km/h Pipe Mountain Coaster .

Whatever you do, make sure you spend some time in downtown Revelstoke. It’s one of my favourite mountain towns in BC (friendly vibes, great range of shops and restaurants, plenty of history).

For travellers who have another night to spend in Revelstoke, I would recommend white water rafting with Apex or a hike on the wonderful Eva Lake Trail (14km return) which starts at the summit of Mount Revelstoke.

Budget Snowforest Campground in Mount Revelstoke Park is convenient for the Meadows in the Sky Parkway. Alternatively, try Martha Creek Provincial Park

Mid-range The Swiss Chalet Motel offers excellent value for families and larger groups. Basic breakfast included and the property is only 10-15 minute walk to downtown

Luxury The stylish rooms at the historical Regent Hotel are surprisingly spacious. The complimentary breakfast buffet is the best I’ve had anywhere in Canada

Day 8: Revelstoke to Golden

Revelstoke to Golden driving distance: 148km Driving time without activities : 2 hours

Time to head further into the mountains! Begin the day with a short 500m stroll on the Highway 1 adjacent Giant Cedars Boardwalk in Mount Revelstoke National Park (closed in 2023 but hopefully open in 2024).

The surrounding valley slopes get steeper and steeper as the highway heads into Glacier National Park. Multiple snowsheds and tunnels provide avalanche protection for the road in winter.

• Two short hiking trails provide a taste of the surrounding national park – Hemlock Grove Boardwalk (350m) and the Rockgarden Trail (430m)
• For a longer hike, head to the Meeting of the Waters Trail (3.3km loop, starts from the Illecillewaet Trailhead).
• Most of the other hikes in this area of the park are very steep and require most of the day to explore (such as the Glacier Crest Trail ).
• The highest section of Highway 1 is at Roger’s Pass, with an elevation of 1327m. The Discovery Centre here is well worth the stop (free)
• Before leaving Glacier Park, consider the very short but steep hike to beautiful Bear Creek Falls (1km).

The time zone change , from Pacific Time to Mountain Time is just beyond the park’s border. Unfortunately, you’ll lose an hour when driving east. There are usually construction delays in this area too.

If you do get into Golden early, consider heading east through town towards Wapta Falls in Yoho National Park.

The 3.2km return hike (mostly flat, with some steep sections near the end) takes just over an hour with the destination an impressively wide waterfall surrounded by mountains.

Families and thrill seekers may prefer to check out the Golden Skybridge , host to Canada’s highest suspension bridges, or the Via Ferrata course at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.

Budget For camping, consider the municipal campground , which backs onto the Kicking Horse River. An alternative is the Kicking Horse Campground in Yoho National Park

Mid-range Golden has a plethora of motels and chain hotels to choose from, with popular options being the Holiday Inn and Ramada (we’ve stayed at the latter twice)

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

Day 9: Golden to Banff*

Golden to Banff driving distance (via Emerald Lake, Yoho Valley Road): 187km Driving time without activities : 2 hours 45 minutes

This day is all about Yoho National Park . In my opinion, Yoho is the most underrated park in the Canadian Rockies.

• The first stop today is Emerald Lake , which is as beautiful (or even more so!) as the name implies
• Enjoy the views, rent a canoe ($90/hour) or walk the family-friendly 5.2km loop trail around the lakeshore. Allow around 2 hours for the latter
• On the way back to Highway 1, make a stop at the Natural Bridge , where the mighty (and very cold!) Kicking Horse River has carved out a natural limestone bridge through erosion

• The tiny community of Field hosts an excellent restaurant (Truffle Pigs) and Visitor Centre as well as impressive mountain views
• Next up is a scenic drive on Yoho Valley Road . Please note, this road is open from late June until Mid October only and has no services or phone signal. There are several tight switchbacks – trailers and large RVs are not permitted
• Takakkaw Falls , British Columbia’s second-tallest waterfall, is located at the end of Yoho Valley Road
• If you have an additional day to spend in Yoho, I would highly recommend a full-day hike on the Iceline Trail or a Burgess Shale guided tour
• The Spiral Tunnel Viewpoint is the last stop in Yoho. Depending on timing, you may be lucky and see a train pass through this impressive structure.

The remaining distance to Banff is impossibly scenic, with snow-capped mountains surrounding the highway.

If you have any spare time, Kootenay National Park’s Marble Canyon (15 minutes drive) is well worth the detour.

*If starting in Vancouver, plan to stay in Banff for the night and continue to ‘Day 1’ description next. If finishing in Calgary, add 126km (90 minutes) drive back to the city

Canadian Rockies loop road trip: top tips

In this section, I will share some final thoughts about planning a Canadian Rockies loop road trip.

Money saving advice

• Gas is significantly cheaper in Alberta than in British Columbia , even in resort towns like Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise. Be mindful of where you gas up!
• Most of the overnight stops are in small towns. During the summer months, accommodation and dining availability and choice can be limited. Book early!
• This itinerary focuses on free activities over paid ones. I have, however, mentioned half a dozen paid attractions which I think offer one-of-a-kind experiences
• A national park pass is required to visit Jasper, Banff, Yoho, Glacier and Revelstoke national parks. All five parks are covered by the same day pass ($10.50/adult). If you plan to spend seven or more days in the parks (as you would with this itinerary), a Discovery pass provides better value
• Wells Gray Provincial Park and Mount Robson Provincial Park are completely free to visit
• The choice of restaurants and cafes is pretty limited on this Canadian Rockies road trip loop route. To save time and money, make your own lunch each day and buy plenty of snacks

The best way to save money while touring the Canadian Rockies is to camp.

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

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

It is possible to buy relatively cheap camping gear and accessories at Canadian stores like Walmart. A full set-up with an entry-level tent (4 person), sleeping bags (2), sleeping mats (2), stove and other essential supplies would cost around $500CAD.

The campgrounds mentioned in this Canadian Rockies loop itinerary are very popular and, as such, travellers should reserve in advance.

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

Not mentioned in this post is the collection of excellent first-come, first-serve campgrounds along the Icefields Parkway. Consider staying at least one of these during your road trip (instead of Banff and/or Jasper).

Alternative road trip itineraries

While we think the above Canadian Rockies loop road trip itinerary provides a great overview of BC and Alberta, we know that may not be perfect for everyone.

The great news is that it is easy to adapt the route to create your perfect itinerary.

• Starting and finishing in Vancouver? Check out our 2 week Western Canada road trip itinerary
• Want to visit the Canadian Rockies AND Vancouver Island? We have a 2 week BC Coast and Mountains route for that too!

12 day Canadian Rockies extended road trip loop

If you have extra time and budget (up to 12 days), I would extend the original loop road trip itinerary like so:

Day 1 : Banff National Park Day 2 : Banff National Park Day 3 : Banff National Park Day 4 : Banff to Jasper Day 5: Jasper National Park Day 6: Jasper National Park

Day 7: Jasper to Valemoun Day 8: Valemount to Kamloops Day 9: Kamloops to Revelstoke Day 10: Revelstoke to Golden Day 11: Golden Day 12: Golden to Banff

This lengthened trip includes one additional night in both Jasper and Banff national parks and a second night in Golden. This would provide a much more relaxed pace and the chance to visit more attractions.

During the full day in Golden, explore the optional activities mentioned in this post such as Wapta Falls , Golden Skybridge or Kicking Horse Resort .

Okanagan Valley detour, 2 additional days

For an interesting contrast to the Canadian Rockies, consider a detour to the Okanagan Valley on your road trip.

The southern interior of British Columbia is host to a spectacular landscape of dry valleys, huge lakes and grasslands. Besides being beautiful, the Okanagan Valley is also Canada’s second-largest wine region. It’s also where we live!

If starting your Canadian Rockies road trip from Vancouver , I would detour via the Okanagan Valley on the way to/from the main loop described in this post. Plan to spend one night in Penticton, Peachland, Kelowna or Vernon.

Highway 97 travels through the centre of the Okanagan and then connects with Highway 1 near Sicamous (west of Revelstoke).

Read our suggestions for things to do between Vancouver and the Okanagan Valley before starting your planning.

Road trippers starting in Calgary could detour to the Okanagan Valley from Kamloops and return to the main loop route at Sicamous. Plan to spend the night in Kelowna, Peachland or Penticton.

8 day Canadian Rockies itinerary without a loop

If the concept of the loop doesn’t interest you, consider this alternate 8 day Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary which starts and finishes in Calgary:

Day 1 : Calgary to Banff Day 2 : Banff National Park Day 3 : Banff to Jasper Day 4 : Jasper National Park

Day 5: Jasper National Park Day 6: Jasper to Golden Day 7: Golden Day 8: Golden to Calgary

The first four days would follow the same itinerary as guided in this post.

On day 5, take a day trip to the Mount Robson area from Jasper OR explore more of Jasper National Park. Day 6 involves driving the Icefields Parkway again (never a bad thing!)

I have suggested two nights in Golden as the drive from Jasper is reasonably long, especially with sightseeing stops.

During the full day in Golden, explore the optional activities mentioned in this post OR take a day trip to Glacier National Park.

15 of the Best Day Hikes in British Columbia Ultimate 2 Week Western Canada Road Trip from Vancouver: Itinerary, Tips & Map What To Do in Wells Gray Provincial Park, British Columbia Toronto to Vancouver Road Trip: 24+ Great Places to Stop 5 Awesome Alternatives to Banff, Alberta The Best Hot Springs in BC: Complete Guide + Map

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

Andy & Linda Nette

Thursday 7th of December 2023

Thank you for this Canadian Rockies tours suggestions. For our 50th wedding anniversary, my wife and I have booked and paid a deposit on a 14 day river cruise in April ‘24 on the Danube, but have been unable to generate any excitement about it. After looking at your site, we have decided to forego our deposit, stay in Canada, and book as per your suggestions above. We appreciate the thoroughness of your research.

Hi Andy and Linda,

Wow, what a compliment! I'm sorry that your planned trip failed to inspire you but I'm so glad you've found an alternative! Happy to help :) Make sure you check out our 2 week Western Canada road trip itinerary as well.

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How to plan an Amazing Canadian Rockies Road Trip Itinerary

The Canadian Rockies are nothing short of spectacular. In many ways, it was our first trip to the Canadian Rockies years ago that set us (mostly Matt, who wasn’t into hiking and the outdoors until relatively recently) onto this path to running this site full time. It seemed like around every bend in the road or trail, there was a somehow more spectacular view awaiting us. 

How can one relatively compact place (relatively is doing a lot of work here) contain so much sheer natural beauty? Glacier-fed alpine lakes with that trademark shade of turquoise. Neverending ranges of rocky peaks. Abundant wildlife, including moose and Grizzly bears.  

It’s no wonder that so many people – including us – flock to this slice of alpine paradise. And, to be clear, there will be A LOT of people, but we’re going to do our best in this guide to give you specific tips based on our own trips to the Canadian Rockies to help you avoid the worst of the crowds.  

In this guide, we’re going to go through ALL the information we think you need to plan an incredible 10 day Canadian Rockies itinerary.

We’ll start with some important logistics – like where to fly in and out of, how to structure your trip to maximize your time, etc. – and then move on to a day-by-day itinerary that you can copy and paste for your own trip (in this case, we’re okay with plagiarism!). 

The intention is to put all the information you need to plan your once-in-a-lifetime Canadian Rockies road trip all in one place.

Plus, it’s all based on our own personal experience over multiple trips to the Canadian Rockies, and we’ll give you the lowdown on what’s worth it, what’s not, and what we wish we’d done differently. 

Sound good to you? Let’s get into it. 

P.S. Strap in with a cup of coffee (or wine, no judgement here), because this guide is LONG and DETAILED. We really tried to shave it down, but a lot of the details we’ve included are essential for planning your trip, so we’re leaving them in!

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

How Many Days Do You Need for a Canadian Rockies Road Trip?

To see the best of Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise (including Moraine Lake), you really need a MINIMUM of 7 days. It’s a lot of driving, and trying to pack it all in just 7 days is going to mean you’re missing key highlights and hikes. 

Plus, with only 7 days, you basically have no flexibility when it comes to the weather (I’m currently writing this on a rainy July morning in Jasper). 

We’ve written this Canadian Rockies itinerary for 10 days . Those extra few days allow you to get a little off the beaten path (to the extent that even exists in Banff and Jasper) to see some of Yoho National Park, a less-heralded park just west of Banff National Park, and have some flexibility to spend a rainy morning waiting for a break in the weather, if needed. 

Plus, it gives you more time to dive deeper into the Icefields Parkway, the incredibly scenic road trip from Banff to Jasper, which deserves more than a couple of hours on your itinerary. We’ve got two half days dedicated to that drive, which is packed with raging waterfalls, epic vistas, and great hikes. 

If you have more time (11-14 days) or less time (7-9 days), we have some ideas on how to alter this itinerary at the end. 

If you have 7 days, you should also read our guide to planning a 7 day Banff and Jasper itinerary (coming soon-ish!), which packs the highlights into a week. 

Where to Start and End Your Canadian Rockies Road Trip 

This one is easy! If you’re coming from somewhere out of the area, the answer is going to be Calgary, which is about an hour and a half away from the town of Banff. 

You’ll want to fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC) , which has some direct flights, but is likely going to require a connection if you’re not coming from one of the airline’s hubs. Still, it’s by far the most convenient airport to fly into. 

If you’re coming from the Pacific Northwest like us, driving to the Canadian Rockies is doable, but you should keep in mind that it’s a long drive. We drove from Portland up to Vancouver, where we spent a couple of days before embarking on a Vancouver to Banff road trip . 

Because it adds a significant amount of drive time (9 hours from Vancouver to Banff, one way), we’d only recommend this option for people with 14 days or more . 

Do You Need to Rent a Car for This Canadian Rockies Itinerary?

The short answer is yes, we think you definitely need to rent a car to make the most of your trip to the Canadian Rockies .

And you should rent it on arrival at Calgary International Airport , and drop it off at the same location when you’re heading home. 

However, I will say that, unlike our trip more than five years ago, Banff has come a long way in terms of public transportation, and it is now possible to piece together an itinerary using a combination of public transportation and guided tours. 

There are public buses (via ROAM Transit ) between Banff and Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Sunshine Meadows, and Johnston Canyon.

However, the thing to know here is that you’re going to be sacrificing A LOT of flexibility. While they exist, the routes don’t always come terribly often, and the first bus of the day is often later than we’d recommend getting the day started. 

The other major downside is that you’ll end up missing a bunch of the stops along the Icefields Parkway, which would be a shame. There are tours that tackle it, but they’re not going to make as many stops as we think you should. 

So, the long answer is that yes, you should definitely plan on renting a car, but it’s possible to put together an itinerary without driving. 

How to Structure Your Canadian Rockies Itinerary

We’re adding this as a separate section up top because we think it’s pretty important to consider how you structure your itinerary to maximize your time. 

At a high level, we’d break up your trip into three distinct parts, staying in a different place for each of them to use as a home base for the region. 

Those three parts are Banff (and around), Jasper, and Lake Louise. 

Here are a few reasons why we strongly believe that’s the best way to structure your itinerary. 

The first thing to know is that it’s a 45-60 minute drive from Banff to Lake Louise. To make the most of your time and be able to see the lake multiple times without commiting to 90 minutes of driving each time, we’d strongly recommend trying to stay near the lake for two nights . 

It’s worth seeing the lake at both sunrise and sunset, we think, and this will allow for an early start on the very busy trails. There aren’t that many options and they’re kind of pricey, but we think it’s worth it to avoid driving back and forth a bunch of times.   

For the record, we did that on our first trip (but not on our second) and wish we had done it on that second trip. 

The second thing to consider is that it will take you nearly four and half hours to drive from Jasper National Park to Calgary. For that reason, we’d recommend ordering your trip to start in Banff, head up to Jasper, and then return to Lake Louise at the end so that you’re set up for a more manageable drive back to the airport (2 hours, ish). 

This is also true if you’re driving back home, unless you live in Edmonton, which is up near Jasper. 

This is what the resulting 10 day trip looks like, at a high level: 

• Day 1: Arrive in Calgary (Sleep in Banff)
• Day 2: Banff
• Day 3: Banff
• Day 4: Drive Banff to Jasper (Sleep in Jasper)
• Day 5: Jasper
• Day 6: Jasper
• Day 7: Drive Jasper to Lake Louise (Sleep in Lake Louise) 
• Day 8: Lake Louise
• Day 9: Lake Louise / Moraine Lake
• Day 10: Drive Back to Calgary (Yoho in AM if you have time)

Where to Stay for This Itinerary

Now that we’ve covered some of the important logistics and laid out our thoughts on how to structure your Canadian Rockies itinerary, let’s talk about where to stay.

As we’ve covered already, we think you should break up your trip into three chunks – Around Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise – and choose a home base near each place to use to explore.

This will cut down on driving back and forth, and allow you to get an earlier start on hikes and viewpoints, which is important in the summer when crowds are intense.  

In this section, we’ll go through an overview where to stay for each of those regions. For more detail, including more options, you should go read our guides to where to stay in Banff (which includes Lake Louise) and where to stay in Jasper . 

Staying Around Banff

This is your first decision point, because you have two distinct options when it comes to choosing a home base for exploring around the town of Banff.

The two options are staying in the town of Banff, which is right in the middle of all the action, or staying in Canmore, a suburb (ish?) of Banff that is just outside the national park boundary. 

In general, Banff is going to be a little more convenient in terms of location because it’s further west, closer to key trailheads like Johnston Canyon. 

While Canmore is an extra 15 minutes away from things, it’s far more charming, with a better food and drink scene (we think) and a more laid back vibe.

Plus, it’s more affordable, and the accommodation options are more modern and updated (while some places in Banff feel a little dated because they’ve been constantly full for decades). 

For what it’s worth, we’ve stayed in both places and, after this latest trip when we stayed in Banff, we decided we will always stay in Canmore on future trips because we like it better as a town, and it’s generally a better value. 

In Banff, we stayed at Tunnel Mountain Resort , which is just up the hill from town on – you guessed it! – Tunnel Mountain. It’s a good location, with free parking and a bus line that runs right into town from right in front of the resort. 

Our room was kind of a dim cave situation (which might be because we needed a dog-friendly room), and it probably needed a fresh coat of paint and some new fixtures to justify the price we paid for it. But, it’s Banff, so you’re never REALLY going to get a great value, are you?

We’d cautiously recommend it, especially if you need a dog-friendly place to stay with a kitchen, which is how we ended up there. 

If you don’t need those things and you want to be based in Banff itself, look at Basecamp Suites Banff . We stayed at their location in Revelstoke and absolutely loved it – wish we’d stayed at their location in Canmore on this trip! 

They have locations all through the Canadian Rockies, and this particular location is a suite hotel, where you have the amenities of a hotel like housekeeping and a front desk, while the units are all apartments. 

Basecamp also happens to have multiple locations in Canmore , which is where we’d recommend staying if you’d rather stay in a less hectic town (and, also, is where we’ll be staying on our next trip). 

Staying in Jasper

Jasper is a little more straightforward than Banff because you really only have two options here. 

Your first option is staying at one of the many hotels right in town, which puts you within walking distance of all the amenities like grocery stores, restaurants and bars, and shopping in downtown Jasper. 

Your second option is staying somewhere outside of town, which is going to be a more rustic experience, but is less convenient when it comes to accessing those aforementioned amenities. 

For what it’s worth, we stayed at Bear Hill Lodge on our last trip, and absolutely loved both the cabins themselves, and the proximity to downtown Jasper (it’s a 10-15 minute walk). 

Our other recommendations here would be either Pine Bungalows Resort , which is right across the river from downtown (though it’s not walkable), or the Pyramid Lake Lodge , which (as you might guess) is right on the shores of Pyramid Lake just outside of downtown Jasper. 

Staying Near Lake Louise

As we’ve already covered, we really think the best way to experience Lake Louise is to stay nearby, which is what we’ve done on our trips, and we haven’t regretted it one bit. 

There are very, very few options near Lake Louise when it comes to hotels, and there are two that stand out to us as a good value (we’re not counting the Fairmont Lake Louise here, which is far out of our budget). 

The two options we’d recommend are Paradise Lodge and Bungalows , which is where we stayed on our first trip and it has since been renovated and expanded, and Basecamp Baker Creek , which is a little further out, but looks like a lovely place to stay operated by our favorite hotel company in the Canadian Rockies. 

The other great option is Lake Louise Campground , which you’ll need to reserve basically when the window opens in the spring (that’s what we did).

You can read more about the reservation procedures here , which are far more structured and relaxed than the US National Park processes. Obviously, that only works if you have camping gear with you. 

The Best Time to Do This Canadian Rockies Road Trip

Summer and early fall, between July and mid-October, is going to be the best time to do the road trip we’re going through in this guide .

You’ll have the best weather, snow-free trails and roads, and longgggg days (we’re here in July, and sunrise is at 5:30am, sunset is at 10pm) to explore. 

The big downsides of summer are crowds and prices , and they’re somewhat related. Summer is, by far, the most popular time to visit, which means trails are packed, and prices in Banff and Jasper are at an all-time high. 

If you’re visiting in the summer, you’re going to want to book your accommodations as early as possible, too. Same with campsites – book them on the day they go on sale (which you can find here ). 

Banff is a good winter destination, too, but that trip is going to look very, very different, with more skiing and snowshoeing, and less driving around and hiking. Keep in mind that winter driving is serious business in the mountains, and many roads require winter tires from October/November to April. 

This is particularly important for the Icefields Parkway, which closes intermittently in the winter due to storms. Once you drive it yourself, you’ll understand why it wouldn’t be ideal to drive it during a winter storm. 

Things to Know Before Your Canadian Rockies Road Trip

We’re going to use this section to cover important logistics – like shuttles, permits, and safety tips – that you should know before you hit the road. 

Park entry fees and passes . You’ll need to pay a fee when you’re in any of the national parks on this itinerary. You have two options – buying a pass for the number of days you need it for, or buying a Discovery Pass, which gives you access to all national parks in Canada for a full year. At a high level, the math on the Discovery Pass works out if you’re spending 7 days or more in the parks ($10.50 per day, $72.25 for an annual pass) though there are some permutations around family passes that might make the math change in your particular instance. You can buy both versions at the park entrance stations, or online in advance . 

Remember that you’re at elevation . The town of Banff sits at 4,500 feet above sea level, and Lake Louise is at 5,250 feet above sea level (Jasper is slightly lower). Two things to know here – stay hydrated, and give yourself a day or two to acclimate if, like us, you’re coming from around sea level. This is the reason we have you starting off with a lower intensity hike on the first day of the itinerary below. 

Expect it to be busy busy busy . If you’re in the Canadian Rockies in the summer, don’t expect to find a whole lot of solitude unless you head into the backcountry (and even then…). The best way to avoid crowds is to get a very, very early start. We arrived before 8am to trailheads (before 7am at Lake Louise), and found that we were often one of the first few groups on the trail, with far more people coming up the trail as we headed down. 

Book your Lake Louise and Moraine Lake shuttles ASAP . Especially if you want to get on one of the early morning departures, which you should. We’ll cover getting to Lake Louise below (if you choose to drive, get there before 7am to secure parking and be ready to pay $21 for the day), but Moraine Lake is only accessible via shuttle, and it’s SUPER competitive. You need to book it in advance, which means you’re unfortunately going to have less flexibility when it comes to weather. More information on the shuttles here . 

Know where to find gas stations . You’ll want to have a full tank of gas as you start your drive on the Icefields Parkway, because there’s exactly one gas station between Lake Louise and Jasper at the Saskatchewan River Crossing, and it’s more expensive than getting gas elsewhere. There are plenty of gas options in Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper. 

Wildlife is…wild . Banff and Jasper are amazing places to see wildlife. On this last trip, we saw Grizzly bears, black bears, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, tons of marmots, among other things. However, it is very very important that you remember that these are wild animals we’re talking about, and your actions impact their lives. Give them plenty of space, and avoid stopping in the middle of the road to gawk at them (though this inevitably happens – make sure to pull off the road and stay in your vehicle). Read this Parks Canada guide to responsible wildlife viewing before your trip. 

Planning a Picture Perfect 10 Day Canadian Rockies Road Trip Itinerary: A Complete Guide

And now, on to the actual itinerary!

We’ve written this as a day-by-day itinerary, with suggestions on exactly how to spend each day.

Obviously, as you’re planning your own trip, things are going to come up like shuttle availability and weather.

So, while you could just copy and paste this itinerary, you’re probably going to have to shift some things around. 

That being said, we’d strongly recommend keeping the Banff-Jasper-Lake Louise structure intact, if you can. 

Remember that structure as you’re reading through the itinerary, because it means that the highlights of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are at the end of this itinerary (days 8-10), where you’ll find some useful tips on accessing the lakes, hiking, and more.  

Day 1: Arrive in Calgary, Drive to Banff, Two Jack Lake for Sunset

Your first day is going to be at least half travel time, depending on when your flight lands in Calgary. We’d strongly recommend booking the earliest possible flight in (and the latest one on the way out) to maximize your time in the Canadian Rockies.  

You’ll land in Calgary (assuming you’re flying in) and head over to the rental car agency to pick up your car.

It takes about two hours to go from the airport to Banff, depending on traffic and where exactly you’re going. Head to your accommodations, check in, drop your bags, and set out for an afternoon of exploring nearby. 

If you’re not flying into Calgary to start your trip, you’ll want to make your way to Banff (and you’ll likely have an extra half day or so in and around Banff to hang out). 

Lake Minnewanka & Scenic Drive

Your first stop is going to be Lake Minnewanka, which is a massive lake out to the east of Banff. It’s only about 15 minutes away, but by the time you’re on the lake, you might as well be in the middle of nowhere. 

The drive out to the lake (and between this lake and Two Jack Lake, which is SPOILER ALERT your next stop) are particularly good places to see wildlife like bighorn sheep and elk. We’ve seen both, multiple times, along this road. 

There are a couple of things to do at Lake Minnewanka, and the first is definitely the boat cruise (which we skipped because of the dog, but we absolutely would have done it if we were sans Lupine).

The cruise takes you out to Devil’s Gap at the far end of the lake, and brings you back. More information here . 

The second thing we want to call out is renting a canoe or kayak . The lake is huge – it’s 13 miles long! – and it’s impossible to get very far on foot (more on that in a second). Getting out on the water in your own watercraft will allow you to get out to different parts of the lake that most people never make it to. 

The third and final thing is hiking around Lake Minnewanka . There are two trails in particular that we’d consider. 

The first is the simple lakeshore trail , which isn’t totally flat, but also isn’t a huge climb and would make a good first hike as your body gets acclimated to the elevation in the Rockies. This is a nice option because you can easily customize it to how you’re feeling, going for a mile or two and then turning around, or going the entire way to the end of the maintained trail. 

The second is C-Level Cirque , which is a short but intense hike up to a rocky bowl with great views back towards the lake. It does involve some scrambling near the top, but it’s relatively easy compared to some of the other scramble trails in the area. 

Two Jack Lake at Sunset

Spend your first sunset in Banff at nearby Two Jack Lake, which is a smaller (but arguably equally picturesque) lake near Lake Minnewanka. 

Park in the lower parking lot and grab one of the picnic benches, either on the beach right there, or on the little spit out to the right, and watch the golden glow of the setting sun over the silhouette of Mount Rundle in the distance. 

Day 2: Vermillion Lakes, Johnston Canyon, & the Town of Banff

On your first full day in Banff, start with an early morning (ideally, sunrise) trip out to Vermillion Lakes to admire the reflection of the curved peak of Mount Rundle in the still water of the lake (and look for elk and moose along the shoreline). 

Then, tackle your first hike of the trip into Johnston Canyon (with an optional extension to the colorful ink pots) before spending the afternoon and evening in the town of Banff. 

Vermillion Lakes 

We love Vermillion Lakes at any time of day, but it’s particularly special in the early morning and late evening hours when the water of the lake is calm and you have the chance to get a perfect reflection of Mount Rundle in the still water. 

This is a very popular spot for photographers for obvious reasons, and our favorite photo spots are along the stretch of shore just outside of town ( here on Google Maps). 

This also happens to be a great place to see wildlife – we have seen elk along the road, and a variety of birds out on the lake (plus, muskrats). 

Johnston Canyon (and the Ink Pots?)

From Vermillion Lakes, head over to the Bow Valley Parkway to start the drive to your hike for the day, Johnston Canyon (with an optional extension for the Ink Pots). 

Johnston Canyon is a unique experience, but it’s one that you really need to have before the crowds show up. We would arrive NO LATER than 8am or so for this hike, but the earlier the better . 

At about 10am, the narrow boardwalk is packed with people. We know, because we came back down the trail and spent two miles trying to keep Lupine on one side of the narrow boardwalk when there were just SO MANY PEOPLE to get pets from. 

The hike is worth it, though. You’ll follow a boardwalk through a canyon with high walls and a river running through it, and the crown jewels of the hike are the upper and lower falls.

Looking for another reason to get an early start? The lineup to see the falls at 11am or so was wild. 

Here’s a picture. 

Looking to escape the crowds? We have some good news. The vast majority of people only go to one or both of the falls, which means you’ll have the continuation of this hike out to the Ink Pots – colorful pools in a beautiful valley – largely to yourself. 

To get to the Ink Pots, it’s about a 2 mile hike in the woods, climbing the entire way. It’s a bit of a slog – there are no views or redeeming features of that stretch of trail to speak of – but the end point is worth it, we thought. 

The Ink Pots are cool because they’re formed by thermal activity, but they’re not hot like thermal pools in Yellowstone, for example.

If you look closely at the bottom of the pools, which is made easy by the fact that they’re completely clear, you’ll see little swirls at the bottom which is where the water is coming up from below. 

They’re particularly stunning on a sunny day, when the rays of the sun make them vibrant and bright, but we were there on a cloudy day and still thought it was worth the journey. 

Exploring the Town of Banff

Spend your afternoon in and around the town of Banff, which is on the one hand very “touristy” in the sense that nearly everyone you’ll encounter outside of service workers is a tourist, but also has some pretty cool spots to check out. 

The main drag in town is (unsurprisingly) called Banff Avenue, and it’s where you’ll find the vast majority of restaurants, shops, and other places of interest in that vein. However, there are also a couple of walkable/driveable places with nice views that are worth seeking out. 

Here are a few of our favorites.

• Surprise Viewpoint: This is the classic view of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel backed by the mountains. You can walk there from town, but it is uphill along a busy road. However, that’s probably preferable to navigating the parking situation, which is usually full of tour buses. 
• Bow Falls: Probably not the most impressive waterfall you’ll see on this trip (especially if you make it over to Yoho National Park), but definitely the most accessible from downtown Banff thanks to the short flat riverside trail. Arguably the best views are actually not of the falls, but of the mountains towering over town (Norquay and Rundle). 
• Cascade of Time Garden: This was Alysha’s discovery, and it’s worth walking through on your way back to town. It’s a little oasis with nice views of downtown Banff and some fun landscaping. 

If you’re up for a little more walking, you can do all three of them as a fun little loop from town. Here’s a map of what that looks like. 

There are also plenty of bars and restaurants in town for dinner and drinks.

Here’s the Eater guide for the Canadian Rockies for some inspiration. Special shout outs for the Balkan (where we’ve eaten and enjoyed) and to the Bistro at the Juniper Hotel for the views (we haven’t eaten there, but have admired the views and considered it). 

Day 3: Choose Your Own Hiking Adventure & Canmore

On your second full day in and around the town of Banff, enjoy a morning hike before heading down the road to Canmore, a charming little mountain town that quickly became our favorite place to go to eat, drink, and shop. 

Choose Your Own Hiking Adventure

While we like to hike a bunch of miles a day when we’re in the Canadian Rockies (less so as we get older and recovery becomes harder!), we also recognize that not everyone is up for 10 miles a day.

For your hike today, you have a few options depending on what you’re up for. 

If you are up for some mileage, we highly recommend Healy Pass . It’s a long hike, but it’s relatively easy in terms of elevation gain and intensity.

And the views from the pass are downright magical, especially in the early summer when the meadows are blanketed in wildflowers and fall when the larches are golden. 

• Healy Pass (11.1 miles / 2,814 feet elevation gain): We loved this hike. It’s a must-do if you’re in the Rockies in early summer (call it mid-July?) for the stunning wildflowers or mid-October when the larches are lighting up. From the pass, you have a nice view of the Ramparts and the Monarch in one direction, and the peaks backing Egypt Lake in the other. It also leaves from the Sunshine Meadows parking lot, which is giant, which means there’s no parking nightmare. 
• C-Level Cirque (5.8 miles / 2,490 feet elevation gain): We mentioned this earlier as an option around Lake Minnewanka, and we’re mentioning it here again as a moderate option that’s an easy drive from Banff. You climb up through the forest for the first few miles before emerging into a rocky bowl, at which point it’s a quick scramble up to a viewpoint back towards the lake. 
• Tunnel Mountain (2.7 miles / 879 feet elevation gain): If you’re looking to take it easy for the day, we really enjoyed Tunnel Mountain. It’s a quick drive (or walk, depending on where you’re staying) from Banff, and the trail is the kind that gets you sweating a little bit, but not so much that you can’t wear those same clothes later. There are some nice views out in both directions from along the trail, with the final view looking out over Banff and the valley beyond. 

Exploring Canmore

For the afternoon, head 15 minutes east from Banff over to what turned out (again) to be our favorite town in the Rockies, Canmore.

We liked Canmore so much that, while we will definitely be back to the Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park, we will likely never ever stay in the town of Banff again. It’s all Canmore for our future selves!

Canmore is our ideal version of a small-ish mountain town, because while it is very clearly on the tourist track (it’s 15 minutes from Banff, though it is technically outside of Banff National Park), it also feels like people actually live there. Which is not something we’d ever say about Banff. 

The fact that people actually live in Canmore (the population has been increasing, especially since the events of 2020 and the rise of remote work) means that, unlike Banff where, for example, there is not one single good coffee shop, there are a bunch of businesses catering to both tourists and locals. 

And it’s truly just as beautiful as Banff, with downtown Canmore sitting along the Bow River, backed by the Three Sisters – which you’ll see and hear a lot about in the brief time you spend in Canmore. 

Similar to Banff, there’s one main drag in Canmore – 8 Street – and that’s where we’d recommend you start with your explorations.

Here are a few of our favorite spots in Canmore. 

• Eclipse Coffee : This was a recommendation from the barista at Prototype Coffee , one of the best coffee shops in Vancouver , and I’m so glad I mentioned that the Banff area doesn’t have any good coffee because I was SO wrong. They have two locations – one right on the main drag, and one over near the Safeway in a strip mall – and they roast their own beans. If you’re looking for good coffee in Canmore, head straight to Eclipse – do not pass go, do not collect $200. 
• Mixed Culture : For the best selection of craft beer, cider, and wine in Canmore, go here. This is another one we stumbled upon, and the owner was extremely helpful in helping us choose some ciders AND gave us a great tip on finding wineries in the Okanagan Valley by connecting us with his natural wine distributor’s online guide. Highly recommend if you’re looking for some cans or bottles to enjoy at camp, or at a lake, or basically anywhere. 
• Core Values Cider : On the recommendation of the owner at Mixed Culture, we moseyed over here to find them working hard on their new taproom, which should be open now (late summer 2023). I was definitely not expecting to find a cidery in Canmore, but here it is! They specialize in dry, wild-fermented cider too, which is very much in our wheelhouse. 
• Communitea : We’ve now eaten here four or five times over a few trips, and are deeply in love with this little corner cafe in Canmore with a great food and tea menu. We like the Pad Thai (even though it’s not REALLY pad thai, if we’re being honest) and basically all of the salads and bowls. Good gluten free options, too).
• Stonewaters : We stumbled upon this cool store, which is a fun place to pop into for locally made (mostly, anyway) gifts, cards, and other fun stuff.  
• Lovely Ice Cream : Right outside of Stonewaters is a little cart slinging cups of ice cream and ice cream sandwiches, all gluten free! We went here multiple times, and would recommend it for a nice sweet treat.  

Aside from the food and drink (and shopping) scene, there are a few other spots in Canmore that are worth your time. 

• Bow River Trail: We don’t have a specific route, but we do think you should walk along the river out to the Canmore Engine Bridge ( here on Google Maps), which is a cool view with the bridge in the foreground over the river, with the Three Sisters in the background. 
• Three Sisters Viewpoint: This is a drive from downtown, but it’s the best view of the Three Sisters. It requires some navigation (park here and walk under the railroad tracks), but there’s a little pond with a nice reflection of the peaks. If you’re into photography, it’s worth coming back at sunrise, when the alpenglow lights up the Sisters just before the sun crests the horizon. 
• Grassi Lakes & Quarry Lake: Some short hikes near Canmore, also with nice views of the Three Sisters. Quarry Lake is in a nice park with an easy, flat trail along the lakeshore. Grassi Lakes is a little more involved, and takes you out to a couple of bright greenish-blue lakes. 

Mount Norquay for Sunset

End your day up at Mount Norquay, which is across the Trans-Canada Highway from the town of Banff.

This was, perhaps, our favorite discovery of our time in Banff itself, because it’s hard to beat the view of Rundle towering over the city from the grassy slopes just below the parking area for the ski resort (which is what Mount Norquay is really famous for in the winter). 

The lookout is almost the entire way up the mountain ( here on Google Maps), and this would be an excellent place to watch the sunset with one of those beers, ciders, or wines that you got at Mixed Cultures in Canmore earlier in the day. 

Plus, this is one of the better places in Banff to see Bighorn Sheep – we saw a family (including babies) on the road on the way up, and got out the telephoto lens to watch them frolic a little bit.  

Day 4: Driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper

Today, the star of the show is the Icefields Parkway, which is the incredibly scenic drive from Banff to Jasper that will leave your jaw on the floor of the car at every bend in the road. 

The first time we ever did this drive, it was so smoky that you could not see 50 feet in front of you, so we truly had no idea what we were missing until we came back down from Jasper on a clear day, and were flabbergasted at the sheer natural beauty on display along this two and a half hour drive. 

We’ve allocated basically a day and a half of this itinerary to this drive, and we’d definitely plan on taking your time here, stopping often for short walks out to viewpoints. 

We have an entire guide to driving the Icefields Parkway , which you should read for a full list of all the stops we’d recommend along the way. Here is a selection of our favorites, including a great hike to do along the way. 

If you miss a stop on the way up, you have to make the drive back down in a couple of days anyway, so you can hit it then!

The Helen Lake Trail

The trailhead for Helen Lake is just across the Icefields Parkway from the first Bow Lake viewpoint, and it fills up in the morning on most summer days. 

The trail climbs through the forest for the first mile and a half or so, oscillating between mostly flat sections and sections that are surprisingly steep and rocky, making it seem harder than it is.

As you climb, you’ll start to get some nice views of Bow Lake behind you, so make sure to turn around and admire it when gaps in the trees appear. 

The real show starts when you get above the treeline into a vast alpine meadow, full of flowers and marmots galore (at least in the early summer).

This stretch of trail is excellent, and it’s a slight uphill grade all the way up to the lake. 

From the lake, you can continue on to the top of Cirque Peak, the mountain you see on the far side of Helen Lake. It’s another few miles (round trip), and double the elevation gain (including scrambling and route finding), so it’s not for the faint of heart.

We skipped it, but we did go around the lake and climbed the switchbacks on the far side to get a view back over the lake, which we’d recommend. 

Bow Lake is one of the many majestic glacial lakes on the Icefields Parkway that features that brilliant turquoise water thanks to the glacial sediment in the water. It’s backed by Crowfoot Mountain (and the glacier of the same name). 

There are two things to do at Bow Lake. 

The first is to stop at the Bow Lake viewpoint , which is basically right across the road from the Helen Lake trailhead ( here on Google Maps). From there, if you get down to the water level, you have a great view of Crowfoot Mountain across the cloudy blue water of the lake. 

The second is to park at the historic Num-Ti-Jah Lodge on the northern shore of the lake and explore that area. 

The cafe at the lodge, which has a nice little outdoor patio, is a good place to grab a snack and a cup of tea or coffee (or in our case, a well-earned cider from Core Values in Canmore).

Just a few steps from the cafe is the lakeshore, which has some pretty spectacular views. 

We definitely think you should leave the crowds behind and walk out along the northern shore of the lake for a bit, where you’ll get a nice view of Crowfoot and a distant view of Bow Glacier falls in the distance.

If you’re up for it, there’s also a hike around the lake up to Bow Glacier Falls .

We skipped it, opting to do Helen Lake, Wilcox Pass, and Parker Ridge instead. However, all three of those hikes are fairly intense, while Bow Glacier Falls is in the easy/moderate category. It’s a good option if you’re looking for something a little more low-key. 

If you’ve seen pictures of Banff, you’ve probably seen at least one picture of Peyto Lake.

It’s that vibrant turquoise glacier-fed lake. Oh, there are tons of those in the Canadian Rockies? Right. Peyto Lake is special because you view it from above, and have the mountains backing it. 

The timing here is a little unfortunate – if you follow this itinerary, you’ll be hitting the lake in the afternoon sometime, and that happens to be the busiest time to be there.

But there’s no real way to fix that (unless you skip the hike to Helen Lake, in which case we’d probably go here first then double back to the other stops), so it is what it is!

It’s a short half mile walk to the upper viewpoint, which you’ll certainly be sharing with hundreds of your new closest friends. 

The Columbia Icefields Discovery Center

After another hour or so of driving (there are a couple of stops along the way that are worth making, like Waterfowl Lakes and Mistaya Canyon), you’ll cross over the border into Jasper National Park (saving our favorite hike, Wilcox Pass , for the trip back down to Banff) and arrive at one of the most impressive parts of the drive: the Columbia Icefield. 

Which, by the way, is the largest icefield in North America (though it is shrinking at an alarming rate). There is 125 square miles of ice here, and from the roadside pullouts and Discovery Center, you’re only seeing an impossibly miniscule fraction. 

If your vision for your trip includes walking on a glacier, this is the place to do it. You can’t go by yourself, though. You can book an Ice Walk to get out with a guide and all the equipment you need. 

It’s worth stepping inside the Discovery Center and going to the lower level, where there is a cool interactive display that talks all about the ecosystems here. 

Athabasca & Sunwapta Falls

This pair of waterfalls will be among your last stops as you roll into Jasper at the end of the day. They’re fifteen minutes apart, and they are both worth stopping for. 

Athabasca is the first one you’ll encounter as you’re driving north. To be honest, it’s hard to take a picture of this waterfall that really does it justice because it comes through a little gorge, which obstructs the view of the falls from straight on.

From the side, you can see the top of the falls, but you don’t get the view of the 80 foot drop. 

Follow the trail from the parking lot to see the falls from multiple views, including the two we just mentioned. 

Aside from, you know, the beautiful waterfall, the best part about Athabasca Falls is the short hike down into the canyon, which a tiny fraction of the people at the falls actually do. From there, you get a more bottoms-up view of the canyons formed by this impressively powerful waterfall. 

Sunwapta Falls is a little further up the road, and is arguably more impressive, with the island of trees in the middle of the river just before it tumbles over the falls.

The drop here is shorter than Athabasca at just 61 feet, but we prefer the views of Sunwapta. 

From Sunwapta Falls, it’s a nice short drive into the town of Jasper, which will be your home base for the next few days. 

Day 5: Wildlife Drive, Maligne Lake, & Maligne Canyon

Jasper is more “wild”, for lack of a better word, than Banff, which probably has to do with its more remote location.

While Banff is an easy two hour drive along the Trans-Canada Highway from Calgary, Jasper takes around four hours to get to from nearby big cities like Calgary or Edmonton. 

For that reason, along with the fact that many people who visit Banff just never make it up to Jasper because they have limited time, it feels more rugged and out there than most places in Banff.

However, with 7-10 days, we definitely think it’s worth visiting, and two days is a good amount of time to spend in and around Jasper.

One thing we will say about Jasper is that it just doesn’t have the amenities that Banff has. We found Nesters to be the best grocery store in town, and loved both Sunhouse Cafe (coffee and tea) and Neighborhood (wine and small plates), but that’s about all we got excited about. 

On your first full day in Jasper, you’ll tackle what we think is the main attraction – Maligne Lake – and the surrounding area. It’s an hour-long drive from the town of Jasper out to Maligne Lake, but there are two nice stops along the way in Medicine Lake and Maligne Canyon that are worth your time. 

We’re organizing the day as Medicine, Maligne Lake, Maligne Canyon to optimize for wildlife viewing in the early morning at both Medicine Lake and Maligne Lake, which does mean you won’t have Maligne Canyon all to yourself. But that’s the order we’d recommend.  

Medicine Lake

While this entire stretch of land is a great place to see some wildlife – we saw a mama moose and her baby completely by accident in the parking lot of the Bald Mountain trailhead before sunrise – Medicine Lake is renowned as a hotspot for seeing moose, elk, bighorn sheep, and more. 

As we’ve already mentioned in some of the Banff sections, the best time to see wildlife is going to be dawn and dusk, so if you’re serious about it, you’ll want to be out at Medicine Lake around sunrise (an early wake up call, we know). 

For what it’s worth, we’ve always had our best luck seeing wildlife within an hour of sunrise or sunset. 

Aside from the wildlife, there’s not much to do at Medicine Lake. It’s worth noting that the lake is actually seasonal, and disappears when the water runs out (which is unusual in the Rockies, which is full of glacier-fed lakes). 

You’re about halfway to your destination here, so you’ll continue your drive onwards to Maligne Lake once you feel like you’ve seen enough. 

Maligne Lake (+optional boat cruise)

Maligne Lake is the crown jewel of this corner of the world. You’ve undoubtedly seen at least one picture of it on Instagram (probably of Spirit Island, a little tree-covered island miles and miles south from the parking area that’s only accessible by boat). 

There are ample opportunities for hiking and other outdoor recreation at Maligne Lake. We’ll give you three ideas in terms of how to spend a half day at the lake. 

First is the boat cruise out to Spirit Island , which is one of the only ways to get that far out into the lake and see pieces of wilderness that only a tiny fraction of visitors get to see.

However, you will likely be crammed into a motorized boat (which, honestly, isn’t great for the lake) with other visitors, so don’t expect to find solitude out there. It’s a 90 minute cruise. 

Second is a self-guided tour out to Spirit Island which, if you’re up for it, is the best way to do it from both an environmental and experiential perspective.

You can either rent a canoe or kayak from Maligne Lake Boathouse ($160 a day for a canoe), which is both the most convenient and also the most expensive option (funny how that works), or you can rent from Wild Current Outfitters in Jasper ($125 a day for a 1-2 person canoe). 

With Wild Current, you book in advance and then pick up the canoe at Maligne Lake, so you don’t need to worry about transporting the boat to and from the lake.

From the boat dock out to Spirit Island is a hair under nine miles, which is no joke.

We’d suggest booking either an early morning or late afternoon rental (the latter would change your itinerary a bit) so that you avoid the bulk of the crowds and boat cruises heading out there. Bring lots of water, snacks, and sun protection!

Third is hiking near Maligne Lake . There are several trail options nearby, from easy flat loops to tough climbs. 

Here are a couple of hiking options near Maligne Lake, some of which we’ve done personally (Bald Hills is great, but be prepared for wind at the top) and others that were on our list for our latest trip, but either got smoked out or didn’t allow dogs. 

• Moose Lake (1.7 miles / 472 feet elevation gain): Super easy hike that takes you southwest from the boat house and parking lot to a nice lake. There’s a reason they call it Moose Lake, and if you can get to the lake early in the morning (or around dusk) there’s a nonzero chance you’ll get to see a moose frolicking in the lake. 
• Mary Schaeffer Trail (2 miles / 275 feet elevation gain): Another easy loop, this time along the lakeshore and then back through the forest. Less about the moose and more about the views of Maligne Lake. 
• Opal Hills (5 miles / 1,696 feet elevation gain): This one is more in the moderate category, and it’s a good way to get a sense for how the landscape changes as you gain elevation. As you climb, there’s an abrupt shift from green, lush forests to a barren rocky landscape. It’s a distinct line that you can see from afar, which is odd. If you’re feeling spicy, continue on to Opal Peak . 
• Bald Hills (9.3 miles / 2,559 feet elevation gain): This is the hike we’ve done, and while we enjoyed it and the view from the top is spectacular, the wind and cold up there made it so miserable that I legitimately have only one or two pictures of the entire hike (rather than the hundreds I have from other hikes).

Maligne Canyon

On your way back to Jasper, it’s worth stopping at Maligne Canyon for a short hike down into the canyon, where you’ll have a bottom-up (sometimes top-down) view of the tall limestone walls and the rushing river. 

This is another popular spot, but it’s a big parking lot, so parking isn’t as much of an issue as it is at some of the other stops on this itinerary. 

One tip here : we’d strongly recommend this version of the hike , which is an out-and-back that follows the river the entire way, rather than doing a loop that takes you away from the canyon. We did the loop, and the part of the hike that’s not in the canyon is pretty “meh.”

Day 6: Valley of Five Lakes OR Edith Cavell Meadows & Pyramid Lake

On your second full day in Jasper, pick from three of Jasper’s most iconic trails for your morning hike, and then head up to Pyramid Lake for the afternoon before ending in downtown Jasper. 

A Morning Hike: Choose Your Own Adventure

Can you tell we’re big fans of giving you a few hike options to choose from based on how you happen to be feeling that particular day?

That theme continues here, where we have a couple of good hikes within an hour of Jasper that offer different experiences and intensities. 

Edith Cavell Meadows (5.1 miles / 1,879 feet elevation gain): We did this one on our first trip, and we’re glad we did because it’s not dog-friendly and wouldn’t have been nearly as pleasant with the smoke we encountered on our second trip. It starts with a short hike to the base of the Angel Glacier (and the glacial pond at its base) before continuing up into the alpine meadows beyond. Then, it quickly turns into a barren, rocky alpine landscape, and the views open up to include the rocky ridge that towers over the parking lot and first section of trail. 

Valley of the Five Lakes (3 miles / 534 feet elevation gain): We did this hike on our latest trip, and it’s a lovely, mostly easy stroll that takes you past – you guessed it! – five lakes. It’s a good hike, though we’d caution you that the longer loop takes you through a very poorly maintained stretch of trail on the northwestern end of First Lake. If you want a longer hike, we’d go along the north shore of First Lake, then come back along that same route to head back to the parking lot (rather than going around the lake, which doesn’t actually follow the lakeshore).   

Sulphur Skyline (4.9 miles / 2,142 feet elevation gain): One of the premier hikes in Jasper National Park, this is a tough hike that starts about an hour away from the town of Jasper (to the northeast). The climb isn’t going to be easy, but the views from the top are equal parts expansive, with 360 degree views, and spectacular, with rocky mountain spines and winding rivers.

Pyramid Lake

After a break for lunch and a little siesta, head up to Pyramid Lake, which is about 15 minutes north of Jasper. 

For what it’s worth, we saw TONS of elk on this stretch of road, and got a kick out of the fact that Lupine saw them out the back window of our car and, after driving for another 10 minutes or so up to the lake, immediately leaped out of the car and scoured behind it for said elk. Guess dogs don’t necessarily comprehend distance traveled in a car. 

You’ll pass Patricia Lake on the way up, and aside from the nice Patricia Lake Bungalows along the lakeshore, there’s not much to do or see there (though it is, unsurprisingly, beautiful). 

There are three destinations up at Pyramid Lake that are worth your time, and the first is the dock outside of the Pyramid Lake Lodge, which is THE place to rent a boat of some kind to paddle the lake. 

The second destination, and the arguably most famous of the three, is Pyramid Island. Accessed by a picturesque wooden footbridge, this little island is worth walking out on, especially for the views across to the other shore with Pyramid Mountain’s hulk looming over the lake. 

The last destination is the beaches on the the south end of the lake, which you’d access by heading left when the road forks as you approach the lake. We were here on a very drizzly morning, and despite the drizzle loved the view of the lake and surrounding mountains from here. 

Downtown Jasper

We don’t have too much to say about exploring Downtown Jasper since we spent most of our time cooking at home while we were in town (the Jasper farmers market is fun, and we found it interesting that most of the produce seems to come from British Columbia). 

However, there were a few places that stood out to us in Jasper. 

First is the duo, owned by the same group, of Neighbourhood Food and Drink (for wine and small bites) and Sunhouse (for coffee and brunch with an Australian flair).

We got great coffee at Sunhouse on a smoky morning, and had a blast chatting with the barista. We then had a similar experience at Neighbourhood a few nights later, which is a natural wine focused bar where we discovered Daydreamer wines , a favorite stop of ours in the Okanagan Valley. 

Jasper Brewing Company and the Raven Bistro were also recommended to us by various people we encountered. 

Day 7: Icefields Parkway (Round 2) & Lake Louise at Sunset

This day is about hitting the stops along the Icefields Parkway – including our favorite hike along the Icefields Parkway – that you missed on the way up a few days ago en route to Lake Louise, where you’ll head for sunset. 

Your first stop is the border of Jasper National Park and Banff National Park, which is a little over an hour from Jasper.

If you skipped any of the Icefields Parkway stops that we recommended on the way up to Jasper, like Athabasca Falls or Sunwapta Falls, now is the time to do them!

Wilcox Pass

We’ve saved the best for last, we think, because Wilcox Pass is our favorite hike along the Icefields Parkway.

It’s a 5.8 mile hike with 1,700 feet of elevation gain, and the only hard part is the last mile or so, which is a steep rocky ascent to the Wilcox viewpoint. 

After the first mile or so, the views on this hike are bangers all the way through, starting with the red Parks Canada chairs, morphing into stunning views of the valley you’re hiking through, and ending with a nice view out over the Icefields Parkway and the glaciers beyond. 

The name is a bit of a misnomer, because you’re going to reach the sign for Wilcox Pass, look around, and feel underwhelmed. Fear not! Follow the trail left for another mile or so as it climbs to the final viewpoint, which is well worth the effort it takes to get there. 

Not only are the views excellent, we also saw multiple groups of bighorn sheep on this trail, along with a huge family of mountain goats (with a bunch of babies) along the way.

Remember to give them plenty of space – just because they’re herbivores doesn’t mean they’re not dangerous, especially when their babies are involved. 

There is a pit toilet at the trailhead, which is just off of the Icefields Parkway. 

Parker Ridge is another good hike that is about 10 minutes further south on the Icefields Parkway. It’s slightly easier (but slightly less spectacular), and would be a good option if 6 miles seems too aggressive for your tastes. 

Lake Louise

Finish your day with a sunset at Lake Louise. 

Now, we think Lake Louise is worth seeing twice – in the early morning (before a hike), and in the late evening. The light does different things at each time of day, and it’s well worth seeing both. 

Check into your hotel or campground, drop your stuff, and head out to the lake. Make sure to arrive after 7pm. Why after 7pm? Parking at Lake Louise, which normally costs $21 (no matter how long you’re parked there), is free after 7pm. 

Day 8: Lake Louise & Hiking Nearby

For the two days you’ll spend near Lake Louise, split your time between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.

This is going to be, by far, the most complicated piece of your trip because of the logistics involved in getting to the two most popular spots in Banff National Park, but it’s 100% worth it. 

While some people opt to do both lakes on the same day, we’d strongly recommend that, if you’re interested in hiking, you do them on separate days because some of our favorite hikes leave from both lakes, and it would be impossible to do them on the same day. 

This does mean you’ll need two days of shuttle reservations (more on that in a second), but we think it’s more than worth it. 

On your first full day in the area, tackle Lake Louise, which is one of the most popular places in all of Canada and is home to some of our favorite hikes in Banff .  

Getting to Lake Louise

Of the two lakes here, Lake Louise is slightly easier to get to. But only slightly.

As of 2023, you can still drive to the parking lot at Lake Louise , while the parking lot at Moraine Lake is only accessible via shuttle or bus (more on that in the section on Moraine Lake). 

You have three options when it comes to getting to Lake Louise: drive yourself and arrive super early, or take the shuttle or bus to the lake. 

Each of the three options has its own pros and cons, which we’ll go through here. 

Option 1: Driving Yourself to Lake Louise

The first option is to drive yourself , which gives you more flexibility and allows for an earlier start on the trail (unless you’re on the first shuttle). However, the cons arguably outweigh the pros here. 

The first con is that you need to arrive super early, which is partially why we recommend staying nearby so that it’s a 10 minute drive, not an hour. There are two big lots at Lake Louise, and by 7am or so on summer days, they are both full. You need to arrive by 7am at the latest to get a spot. From our own personal experience, we were there at 6:15ish, and they were almost full by the time we had strapped on our hiking boots and headed to the trail. 

The second con is that it costs $21 to park for the day , between 7am and 7pm. However, this might actually work out to be cheaper than the shuttle if you have a full car of people, so this is probably less of a con and more something to know going in. 

Option 2: Taking the Parks Canada Shuttle 

Your second option is taking the Parks Canada Shuttle , which starts and ends at Lake Louise Ski Resort, just across the highway from Lake Louise ( here on Google Maps). 

This is a good option if you don’t want to get up super early to deal with the nightmarish parking situation at the lake, or if you want to do both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in the same day using the Connector shuttle that runs between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. 

However, there are two downsides to this option. First is less flexibility – you’re beholden to shuttles on the way there and back, and the tickets are very competitive, so you might not be able to snag an early morning seat unless you book months in advance…when you won’t know what the weather is going to look like that day. 

The second is that it’s not super convenient if you’re staying in Banff or Canmore. Keep in mind that this option does mean that you have to drive out to Lake Louise, which is 45-60 minutes from the town of Banff. If you’re staying in Banff, we have a better option next.

Shuttles run every 20 minutes from 6:30am to 7:30pm, and you should make advance reservations as soon as possible. More information here .

Roam Transit Bus 8x from Banff  

The third option is to take Roam Transit bus 8x – the Lake Louise Express – from Banff High School in downtown Banff out to Lake Louise.

This is the best option if you’re coming from Banff because it means you don’t have to drive 45-60 minutes just to catch the Parks Canada shuttles. 

There is an option here to connect with the Parks Canada Moraine Lake Shuttle, and you’ll need to buy the “Superpass” to do that (for the record, we recommend doing the two lakes on separate days). 

This is the most convenient option if you’re coming from Banff, but it’s also the most expensive, costing $10 each way per adult (seniors are $8 each way, kids 17 and under are free). 

Reservations should, again, be made as far in advance as you can. More information here . 

Hiking Options Around Lake Louise

There are two main hiking routes from Lake Louise, and both are excellent, and both feature backcountry tea houses that this part of the world is famous for. 

They are the Plain of Six Glaciers , which takes you out into the glacial valley at the far end of Lake Louise, and Lake Agnes and the Beehives, which takes you up to a ridge high above the lake.

We slightly prefer the Plain of Six Glaciers because it’s a more unique landscape, but that’s just us. 

Here’s a brief description of each of those hikes (including two versions of the Beehives), along with a route that combines them into one long all-day affair, which is what we did on our latest trip. 

The Plain of Six Glaciers (9.1 miles, 1,929 feet elevation gain): Of the hikes at Lake Louise, this is our favorite (we’ve done it twice now, and it was breathtaking boh times). It takes you out and back to a magnificent view of Abbot Pass and the glaciers up there, with a fun teahouse stop along the way. Great views all the way through! Read our trail guide: Hiking the Plain of Six Glaciers . 

The Big Beehive Loop (6.7 miles, 2,552 feet elevation gain): A close second, this hike takes you up past picturesque Lake Agnes (and the teahouse of the same name) to the top of the Big Beehive, which has a commanding view out over Lake Louise and the Bow River Valley. It’s a great hike, especially in the fall when the Larches along Lake Agnes turn bright gold. 

The Little Beehive and Lake Agnes (5.7miles, 1,955 feet elevation gain): A stripped back version of the Big Beehive hike, this takes you up to the Little Beehive (which has a slightly worse view) and then ends at Lake Agnes Teahouse before returning back to the shore of Lake Louise. It’s slightly easier, but we’d really urge you to try for the Big Beehive if you can because it really is much better. 

Now, if you’re an experienced hiker, you’re mentally and physically prepared, and you absolutely MUST experience both, you can combine the two hikes into one big loop, which is what we did. Here is the Alltrails guide for that hike. 

For what it’s worth, we use Alltrails+ to download maps and track distance and elevation and we clocked 12 miles and 3,500 feet of elevation gain. 

It’s a tough hike, but it’s doable if you’re prepared with plenty of snacks, water, and a reasonable fitness level. It will take you all day, especially if (like us) you linger for a bit at each of the two teahouses to catch your breath. 

If you are going to do the full loop, we’d advocate for two things.

First is skipping Little Beehive, because it’s not worth the effort given you’ve already done the Big Beehive.

Second is going clockwise, out to the Plain of Six Glaciers first (which is very exposed and is tough in the beating sun) then looping back to Lake Agnes and the Big Beehive. 

Basically all of these hikes are going to take the better part of a day, and you’re going to want to spend the rest of it recovering and replenishing, because there’s another big day coming tomorrow!

Day 9: Moraine Lake & Hiking Nearby

Moraine Lake might just be the most popular lake on Instagram. And we’re not saying that’s necessarily a bad thing.

It’s pretty clear why that is, with the spectacular blue water of the lake with the Valley of the Ten Peaks rising above it. 

To this day, out of the tens of thousands of photos I’ve captured around the world, the picture above is one of my favorite pictures that I’ve ever taken. 

Experiencing the beauty of Moraine Lake is absolutely one of the quintessential Canadian Rockies experiences that you definitely shouldn’t miss, but over the past few years it has become more complicated as the park has done its best to grapple with overwhelming visitor numbers. 

As of 20233, they’ve completely closed the road to Moraine Lake to passenger vehicles year round, and introduced a reservation-based shuttle system in an effort to mitigate some of the negative impacts of thousands of visitors per day. 

Don’t worry, we have a whole section on how to navigate those systems to get your tickets in this section. 

You might be tempted to visit Moraine Lake on the same day that you visit Lake Louise, but if you’re an avid hiker, we’d recommend doing them on separate days, because each lake has a couple of the best hikes in Banff that leave from its shore. 

For us, a perfect day at Moraine Lake starts with the famous rockpile viewpoint, followed by a stroll along the lakeshore, and ending with one of the many hikes nearby. Including the shuttle rides to and from the lake, it’s really an all-day affair. 

Getting to Moraine Lake

The first thing we need to cover here is getting to Moraine Lake, which has changed over the past few years as record traffic numbers overwhelmed the infrastructure at the most popular lake on Instagram and necessitated some limitations on visitation. 

As of 2023, Moraine Lake Road – the only road into the lake – is closed to private vehicles . 

That means that the only way to access Moraine Lake is by shuttle or bus, and there are both public transportation options and private options. It’s also worth noting that the lake is only accessible by vehicle from May to October. 

We’ll talk about both public and private offerings, but we’re going to focus more on the public transportation options. 

The first option is the Parks Canada Shuttle . This option leaves from Lake Louise Ski Resort, which is just across the highway from Lake Louise Village.

That does mean that, if you’re coming from Banff or Canmore, you will need to drive about an hour to catch the shuttle (the next option might be better, depending on what you’re looking for).

This option connects you to the Lake Louise Lakeshore, Moraine Lake (via a connector shuttle that leaves from Lake Louise lakeshore), and the Lake Louise Campground. It runs frequently – every 20 minutes between 6:30am and 7:30pm – but it still fills up in the summer.

Book well in advance. More information here . 

The second option is combining the Roam Transit Lake Louise route (route 8x) with the Moraine Lake Connector shuttle (operated by Parks Canada) .

This is a great option if you’re staying in Banff, because it means you don’t have to make the 45-60 minute drive out to Lake Louise Ski Resort to connect with the Parks Canada Shuttle.

Instead, you take the 8x from downtown Banff to the shore of Lake Louise, and then hop on the Parks Canada connector that takes you to Moraine Lake.

This requires you to purchase the “Roam Superpass” when you book your ticket, which gives you access to the connector shuttle. More information here . 

The third option is the Moraine Lake Express through Roam Transit (route 10 ).

The most important thing to know is that this option is only available in the fall , September through mid-October.

This route leaves from the town of Banff (in front of Banff High School) and makes a beeline to Moraine Lake, which makes it a really nice option if you’re staying in Banff and don’t want to drive out to Lake Louise. More information here . 

All three options are very competitive, and you should book your tickets well in advance, especially if you want the coveted early morning slots. 

Keep in mind that even if you want to just use the connector to Moraine Lake, you need to check in at Lake Louise Ski Resort and take the shuttle from there to Lake Louise. 

There are two private transportation options we want to highlight for different reasons.

• The first is the Sunrise Shuttle , which is the only option for photographers who want to see Moraine Lake at sunrise (aside from spending $$$ to stay at Moraine Lake Lodge). It takes you from Banff to the lake, arriving around 45 minutes before sunrise, where you’ll stay for two hours before being whisked back to Banff. It’s pricey, and we wish there was an option to stay at the lake to get an early start on a hike, but it’s the only way to have the lake to yourself at sunrise.
• The second is the open top buses operated by Wow Banff , because it’s the only way to bring a dog to Moraine Lake (their route goes from Lake Louise Ski Resort, to Lake Louise, to Moraine Lake). Dogs are only allowed on the upper deck, and we seriously considered doing this to get to Moraine Lake with our dog, Lupine. 

The Rockpile Viewpoint and Lakeshore

Your first stop off of the shuttle should be the famous rockpile viewpoint, which is a short walk off to your left. From here, you’ll have an excellent view of the lake, backed by the mesmerizing Valley of the Ten Peaks. 

Early in the morning, the water is a bright shade of blue, and as the sun rises and interacts with the fine rock particles in the water, it becomes a unique shade of turquoise.

Both are beautiful in their own right, and if you’re on an early shuttle you might have the opportunity to see both versions. 

After the rockpile, we would also recommend strolling the lakeshore for some more excellent views.

Head back to the parking lot and walk the other way, passing the Moraine Lake Lodge and canoe rentals. You could walk all the way to the end of the lake, but we’d probably go half way or so and turn back, because you’ve got a hike ahead of you!

Choose Your Moraine Lake Hiking Adventure

After poking around the lakeshore and taking some photos, it’s time to embark on your daily hike. As usual, we have a few options for you to choose from based on your own comfort and fitness levels. 

However, we should say that we highly recommend the hike to Sentinel Pass. It is our favorite hike in the park, though it’s not an easy one. The views out over Larch Valley and back towards the Valley of Ten Peaks are nothing short of spectacular. 

Here are the three hikes, in order of difficulty (easier to harder). 

• Consolation Lakes (4.6 miles, 1,000 feet elevation gain): This hike continues past the rockpile to a string of two lakes. It’s the easiest of the three, and is a very gradual grade.
• Eiffel Lake (7.6 miles, 2,000 feet elevation gain): Another alpine lake, surprise! This hike is longer with more elevation gain, but it’s still in the moderate category. The first mile and a half climb the same switchbacks as Sentinel Pass, which aren’t easy, but then it’s a mostly level walk out to Eiffel Lake, another turquoise lake with a tiny fraction of the crowds at Moraine. 
• Sentinel Pass and Larch Valley (7 miles, 2,600 feet elevation gain): The switchbacks at the beginning and end of this hike are the hardest parts, with a nice stroll through beautiful Larch Valley in the middle as a break. The views from Sentinel Pass back over Larch Valley and Minnestimma Lake are breathtaking, as is the final ascent to the pass. 

Day 10: Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, & Drive Back to Calgary

On your last day, spend the morning skimming the surface of Yoho National Park, which is immediately west of Lake Louise, and then finish your trip by driving back to Calgary, tears streaming down your face because you can’t believe that every day isn’t filled with rocky peaks, alpine lakes, and 10+ mile hikes (what, just us?). 

For logistical purposes, we’d go out to Emerald Lake – the furthest point from Calgary – and stop at Takakkaw Falls as you head back towards Calgary. 

Emerald Lake

Moraine Lake is the Instagram darling, but Emerald Lake isn’t far behind. And, again, it’s easy to see why. Emerald Lake, as you might imagine based on the name, skews more green than blue when the sun hits the water and interacts with all that glacier dust floating in it. 

It’s a very popular spot, and tour buses start rolling in at 9am or so. We’d recommend getting out there as early as you can (we were there at sunrise, which was magical). 

If you have the time, there are two things worth considering here. 

First is a walk along the lakeshore, particularly on the left side of the lake (if you’re coming from the parking lot). There’s a loop all the way to the other side of the lake, and the views from the far side back towards Emerald Lake Lodge are stunning. 

Second is renting a canoe and exploring the lake from a different vantage point. They’re not particularly cheap, but they ARE cheaper than Lake Louise or Moraine Lake. 

There are also some hikes here, but if you want a good hike, we’d save it for your next stop. 

Takakkaw Falls

Your second stop in Yoho National Park is Takakkaw Falls, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada and is well worth the drive on the narrow road to reach. It’s a short one mile round trip walk from the parking lot to the base of the falls. 

If you’ve got the time for a hike (we have this in the “more time” section below), there are two here that are worth your time. 

The first is the hike to Laughing Falls , which involves two more waterfalls and a mostly flat hike out into the Little Yoho Valley.

If you have the energy, you can continue on to Twin Falls , which is a full day excursion, but takes you deep into the Little Yoho Valley out to the Twin Falls Chalet and the waterfall of the same name. 

The second hike to consider is the Iceline Trail loop , which is the one we’d choose with unlimited time (we’ve done it, and it’s amazing). This one aggressively climbs to get above the treeline up on the ridge, where you’ll have great views out over the valley and, in our opinion, one of the best views of Takakkaw Falls from across the valley. 

Instead of doing the out and back, loop down past Celeste Lake and Laughing Falls to vary the terrain. It’s a long hike, and spends a big chunk of time above the treeline, so watch for thunderstorms and get an early start. 

Drive Back to Calgary

The drive from Yoho back to Calgary will take you about 2.5 hours, and we’d suggest giving yourself plenty of time to get back to the airport to catch your flight. 

What to Add With More Time (11-14 Days)?

If you have more time in the Canadian Rockies, congratulations! There is PLENTY to do and see to fill two weeks (a lifetime, really), so you will never feel like you’re running out of things to do if you have two weeks or more. 

Here are some things we love, and think are worth adding to your Canadian Rockies itinerary with extra time. 

More Hikes! (1-2 Days) 

There are plenty of other hikes in Banff and Jasper to add to your itinerary, and we’d recommend adding an extra day for each long hike that you’re interested in. 

One option is to add another of the “choose your own adventure” hikes in the itinerary above. For example, if you only did the Big Beehive at Lake Louise, you could add a day and do the Plain of Six Glaciers too. 

The other option is to refer to our guide to the best hikes in Banff and choose from there. Here are a few that aren’t included in the main itinerary above, but that we think are worth your time. 

• Bald Hills (Jasper): This hike leaves from the shores of Maligne Lake and takes you up to the top of a ridge with great views. Lots of wildlife possibilities, too – we saw a mama and baby moose in the parking lot early in the morning before our hike. It was incredibly windy at the top of the mountain and, as the name suggests, there’s not a whole lot of tree cover up there to protect you. 
• Paradise Valley and Lake Annette (Lake Louise): We actually didn’t get to do this hike because it’s on Moraine Lake Road and requires the shuttle (no dogs allowed!), but it was high on our list. You can do it as a shorter out and back hike, or you can do it as a through hike to Moraine Lake up and over Sentinel Pass, which would be one (long) epic day. 
• Healy Pass (Banff): Of all the hikes we did that were not at Lake Louise or Moraine Lake, this was our favorite. It’s also the least crowded, and the gigantic parking lot means that parking isn’t really an issue either. It’s relatively long, but the elevation gain is very gradual, and we would put this in the moderate category (bring plenty of snacks and water though, because it’s a long walk). The first three miles or so are in the trees, but once you burst out of the treeline and are met with sweeping views from Healy Pass, you’ll understand why we enjoyed this hike so much. We will say that this is a must-do in the early summer (early to mid-July) for wildflowers, and in the fall (mid-October, but it depends on the year) for the golden larches. 

Yoho National Park (1 Day)

Yoho National Park sits on the eastern border of Banff National Park, just a few minutes west of Lake Louise.

However, despite its proximity, relatively few people make it to Yoho, and we think that’s a shame. It’s not like it’s a hidden gem – it’s very much on the beaten path these days with Emerald Lake’s popularity on Instagram – but it’s far less hectic than its neighbor, Banff National Park. 

Now, we’ve included a half day or so in Yoho in the itinerary above before driving back to Calgary, but it definitely deserves a full day to itself, if not more.

There are several world class hikes – namely, the Iceline Trail (we’d do it as a loop – more on that in a second) – and plenty of other attractions to occupy an extra day.  

• The Iceline Trail : If you’re up for a big hike, this is the one you should do. It has two things going for it. One, you get up above the treeline into the rocky alpine landscape high above Takakkaw Falls. Two, you get what is probably the best view of Takakkaw from the ridgeline looking across the valley. The best way to do this – and we wish we had known this before our hike – is as a loop that goes up the Iceline Trail switchbacks and comes back down via Laughing Falls.
• Twin Falls & Laughing Falls: This is an easier hike, heading out from Takakkaw Falls to the Little Yoho Valley, passing three waterfalls along the way. The full lollipop hike is nearly 10 miles and 2,500 feet of elevation gain, but the shorter out-and-back hike to Laughing Falls gets you two of the waterfalls at a much lower effort. More information on the longer hike here. 
• Wapta Falls : This is in a different part of the park, a few miles west along the Trans-Canada Highway from the turn offs to Takkakaw and Emerald Lake. It’s an impressive waterfall, though the hike isn’t particularly beautiful. It’s worth a stop if you’re heading west to Glacier (or you’re driving back to Vancouver to finish a Vancouver to Banff road trip ), but probably not worth the detour for most people. 

Lake O’Hara (1-2 Days) 

You caught us! Technically, Lake O’Hara is in Yoho National Park, but we think it deserves its own line item here because it is both spectacular and hard to access. It’s a paradise of alpine lakes and hanging valleys. 

We didn’t get to do it this last trip because the shuttle doesn’t allow dogs (which we totally understand), and Matt is currently contemplating going back on his own JUST to go to Lake O’Hara for a few nights (don’t tell Alysha or Lupine). 

Basically, the only ways to access Lake O’Hara – which is a hub for some great hikes and also a gorgeous lake itself – are by shuttle or by walking a long forest road (11km each way).

You can learn about how to secure a shuttle spot here , including when the reservations open, how to get one, and everything else you might want to know. 

In terms of staying overnight, there is a campground at the lake, along with a couple of lodges. All of the options are very, very competitive, and if you want to stay overnight out there you’ll have to book early. More information here . 

Glacier National Park of Canada (2 Days) 

Though it is a little far from Banff and Jasper, we think Glacier National Park (of Canada) is worth the slight detour. If you’re a mountain lover like us, it offers some of the best high alpine hiking in Canada with a TINY fraction of the crowds that you’ll find in Banff and Jasper. 

The hiking is the main draw here, and two days and two nights is enough to get in a couple of great hikes.

We’d do Abbott Ridge (we met a search and rescue person at Glacier who said this is her favorite hike in the park, but we had to skip it) and either the Great Glacier Trail (shorter and easier) or Asulkan Valley (longer trek with more Grizzly bears) on your second day. 

As you might expect, the best way to experience Glacier National Park is to camp, because there just aren’t very many places to stay near the park.

Stay at Illecillewaet Campground , if you can, which is also the trailhead for most of the best hikes in the park. 

However, we originally booked a room at Heather Mountain Lodge , which is the closest lodging option to the park, before we realized they didn’t have a kitchen (which does not work for Matt, who has Celiac Disease and needs to be able to cook) and we had to cancel. 

It’s pricey, but the proximity to the park and the sheer beauty of the cabins are worth it, we think. 

What to Do With Less Time (7-9 Days)

With less time in the Canadian Rockies, there are a few changes you can make to the itinerary above to maximize your time. 

The first thing we’d say is that you should not cut any time in Lake Louise. Don’t try to do Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in a single day – keep those two days as written above. 

The two places you can and should cut time are going to be around Banff, which we think you can limit to two days (including the day you arrive) and the Icefields Parkway, which you can spend less time on than the 1.5 days we recommend above. 

To make it work in eight days, we’d drive back to Lake Louise from Jasper on the second full day, so you’re only spending two nights in Jasper. 

Oh, and you won’t be able to fit in Yoho, we think, so save it for next time. 

Here’s what an eight day trip might look like. 

• Day 3: Drive Banff to Jasper (Sleep in Jasper)
• Day 4: Jasper National Park
• Day 5: Jasper & Drive to Lake Louise
• Day 6: Lake Louise
• Day 7: Moraine Lake
• Day 8: Drive Back to Calgary

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Hi Matt and Alysha thank you so very much for publishing this Canadian Rockies Tour Guide it is so far the most informative article I’ve ever read . It is very detailed and will surely guide us if ever we will be given a chance to travel . More power to you and GOD be less

You’re so welcome! Hopefully you’ll get to explore the Canadian Rockies at some point soon – it’s an incredible place and we can’t wait to go back! Cheers!

You’re so welcome! Hope you get to make it to the Canadian Rockies at some point in the future 🙂

Hi there, thanks for this brilliant itinerary. I am looking to do something like this but with adding Vancouver on. How much time do you think I would need for this and is there a way you would recommend doing this sort of trip where you fly in/out of Vancouver/Calgary and leave from the other? Thanks

Hey Emma! I’d probably say that you need 10 days or more for that trip, and it’ll probably be pretty rushed. 14+ days would be better. And I would DEFINITELY fly in/out of Vancouver and Calgary to avoid having a long drive to get back to the airport. One way is the way to do it!

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Perfect Itinerary for a Road Trip In the Canadian Rockies

The ultimate Canadian road trip has to include some time spent in the amazing and unbelievably stunning regions of the Canadian Rockies. From abundant wildlife to snow-capped mountains, giant glacier fields, and magical blue lakes, seeing the Canadian Rockies should be on your bucket list. We spent a couple of summers in the Canadian Rockies and came up with the ultimate road trip to help you plan the adventures of a lifetime among those incredible mountains.

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*Discloser: This article may contain affiliate links, meaning I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through a link. More information

Where are the Canadian Rockies?

The Canadian Rockies are in western Canada, running north from the US border in western Alberta and eastern British Columbia into the Yukon Territory. 

How long do I need for a road trip to the Canadian Rockies?

I recommend three weeks to fully enjoy much of what this region has to offer. However, there is much to see and do in the Canadian Rockies. You could spend months exploring this vast territory. But whether you have just a few days or a few weeks, any time spent in the Canadian Rockies will be an unforgettable experience.

When is the Best Time to Visit the Canadian Rockies?

The best time to visit the Canadian Rockies will depend entirely on the activities you plan on doing. Summer, from June to September, is perfect for hiking, swimming, horseback riding, kayaking and most sightseeing activities. However, July and August are the busiest, so expect crowds if you visit during those months.

Winter also sees its share of visitors, where many skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, skating and dogsledding opportunities are available. Snow and ice arrive early, sometimes by October, and linger well into May. This one-week winter itinerary in the Canadian Rockies provides all the information you need to plan an amazing trip full of outdoor winter activities.

Canadian Rockies Road Trip Itinerary

Canadian rockies road trip stop 1: canmore, where is canmore.

Canmore is a small town in Kananaskis Country, Alberta. The mountains of the Canadian Rockies surround this charming community. It is about an hour (or 100 kilometres) west of Calgary, AB, four hours (or 390 kilometres) south of Edmonton, and a nine-hour drive (or 850 kilometres) from Vancouver, BC. 

A bit of History

Canmore area is known as “Chuwapchipchiyan Kudi Bi,” or “shooting at the willows,” translated from Stoney Nakoda. The name Canmore came in the 1800s, originating from Gaelic Ceann Mór , translated as big head or chief, explaining the sculpture of the big head in downtown Canmore.

Hiking in Canmore

Numerous f amily-friendly hikes are available near Canmore . They are primarily easy walks with beautiful scenery, and they can be enjoyed as a family or by hikers of all levels. 

My favourite easy hike in Canmore is the River Walk, which follows the Bow River and features the impressive old train bridge. I also thoroughly enjoyed the Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk Trail, which wanders through town and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. 

If you are searching for a more challenging hike, you can choose from one of the scrambles to the summit of the mountains surrounding Canmore . All peaks from this peak-bagging list are challenging hikes but so rewarding. 

One of my favourite challenging hikes in Canmore is the East End of Rundle Route . The views are amazing, and the mountain is impressive.

What to do in Canmore (besides hiking)

• Canmore Caving Explorer Tour
• Canmore Cave Adventure Tour
• Canmore Museum
• Downtown Shopping on Main Street
• The Elevation Place for the climbing gym or the indoor pool
• Stop in at Where the Buffalo Roam Saloon for one of their house creations or classic drinks. The place is small and cozy but full of character.

Where to Stay in Canmore (my recommendations)

• Ambleside Lodge B&B , Canmore’s family-owned refuge in the Canadian Rockies, is a perfect choice if you long for that rustic chalet feel.
• A Bear and a Bison Inn is a B&B offering a bit of luxury with fireplaces and in-room jacuzzis. 
• The Lady Macdonald Country Inn is a family-owned lodge with the right mix of Victorian style and country charm. 
• For a more affordable stay, Canmore Downtown Hostel rents dorm beds and private rooms.

Where to Eat in Canmore?

My favourite is the Grizzly Paw Pub and Brewing Co . We loved the atmosphere, good music, great food and friendly staff.

We also had breakfast and lunch at Graze Food and Drink . It has good food and excellent service.

The Iron Goat Pub and Grill is highly recommended for its fantastic food and service.

Other great options:

• Rocky Mountain Flatbread
• The Market Bistro

Don’t Miss

Three Sisters Lookout Trail is a one-kilometre loop that is considered an easy hike. It brings hikers to a viewpoint at a pond with the Three Sisters Peaks in the distance. The scene is a nice reward for minimum effort! Park across the street from the off-leash dog park on Bow Valley Trail.

Canadian Rockies Road Trip Stop 2: Banff

Where is banff.

The touristic town of Banff sits nestled in the Canadian Rockies. It is 20 minutes (25 kilometres) north of Canmore on the Trans-Canada Highway or 120 kilometres east of Calgary, Alberta.

A Bit of History 

Banff was established at the foot of a small mountain named Tunnel Mountain. It was called as such because the plan was to dig a tunnel through the mountain for the railway to cross the mountain that stood in its path. The plans changed, and the railway was built elsewhere, but the name stuck. This small mountain, more of a hill, is surrounded by impressive mountains like Rundle, Cascade and Norquay. It is also known as the Sleeping Buffalo because of its shape.

Hiking in Banff 

There are numerous family-friendly hikes in Banff . My top hikes that can be done with children are the Tunnel Mountain Trail and the Johnston Canyon Hike. 

C-Level Cirque Trail is another hike I enjoyed in Banff. The walk near the old building ruins and mineshafts in the forest was interesting, and the view of the cirque was impressive. Hikers can keep going through the woods on a steep path that leads to a lookout of Minnewanka Lake and the surrounding mountains. This is a 9-kilometre moderate hike.

If you are up for full-day challenging hikes, popular ones are the scramble to Mount Rundle’s summit or the trek to the top of Cascade Mountain . Both are difficult but very rewarding, with magnificent views from the top.

What to do in Banff (besides hiking)

• Shopping in downtown Banff: Banff Avenue is a must for anyone visiting the region. Walk and Shop with Cascade Mountain in full view.
• Visit Banff Park Museum to learn about Banff’s history and culture. You might also like the art exhibits of the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies or the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum teaching us about the heritage of the First Nations in the region. 
• Enjoy a raft tour on the Bow River with Rocky Mountain Raft Tours .
• The boat tour of Lake Minnewanka with Lake Minnewanka Cruise is also a coveted activity in Banff. The scenery along the ride is unforgettable. Don’t forget your camera.
• Visit Cave and Basin Historic Site for the thermal springs and the interesting interactive exhibits
• Relax with some time in the Banff Upper Hot Springs surrounded by mountains.
• Bike or drive the Vermillion Lake Drive. Banff Cycle will happily outfit you with the necessary equipment.
• Go for a swim or a paddle in Johnson Lake. Black Diamond Bike and SUP Rentals can help you here. 
• Open Top Touring offers a different and original way to tour the town and enjoy the views.
• Challenge yourself on Mount Norquay’s Via Ferrata
• Enjoy a drive on the Bow Valley Parkway with scenic views.
• Need more ideas? Fishing, golfing, horseback riding , dogsledding or sleigh rides, ice skating, cross-country skiing or snowshoeing, skiing or snowboarding, ice climbing, and e-bike tour .

Camping in Banff

• Tunnel Mountain Village Campground
• Two Jack Main Campground
• Two Jack Lakeside Campground

I appreciated my stay at the Two Jack Main Campground. It offers beautiful campsites in a wooded area for an authentic camping experience.

I stayed a couple of nights at the Tunnel Mountain Village Campground. This campground was well-maintained and closer to the town of Banff. The location of Tunnel Mountain Village is practical, but I enjoyed the secluded Two Jack Main Campground.

These two campgrounds are busy during the high season. Therefore, I highly recommend booking a site in advance.

Where to Eat in Banff?

• Park Distillery Restaurant and Bar has a fantastic ambiance, an excellent drink selection and tasty food. You can sit on the second-floor patio and enjoy the surrounding mountains.
• The Canadian Brewhouse is a favourite among tourists and locals for its ambiance and food. The service is excellent, and the appetizers are original and delicious. This is the place to be if you want a sports bar.
• I enjoyed eating at the Banff Ave Brewing Co . The pub’s staff was friendly, and the food was great.

Spend time relaxing on the beach by Minnewanka Lake and walk along the shore to admire the lake and the mountains surrounding it. This is one of my favourite spots in Banff.

The Banff Gondola will take you to the top of Mount Sulphur, where you can enjoy the fantastic views. There is a boardwalk that leads visitors across the summit. The gondola terminal also has a souvenir shop, a restaurant and an engaging, interactive exhibit about the Canadian Rockies.

Canadian Rockies Road Trip Stop 3: Kootenay National Park

While staying in Banff, we hopped over the border to British Columbia to explore Kootenay National Park for a few days. Kootenay National Park is a mixture of mountains, canyons and grasslands with great outdoor activities and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Where is Kootenay National Park?

Kootenay National Park is 50 kilometres northwest of Banff. From Banff, take the Trans-Canada Highway north and exit west on the Banff-Windermere Highway (Hwy 93). Not too far after the British-Columbia/Alberta border, you will notice the entrance sign for Kootenay National Park.

Hiking in Kootenay National Park

Marble canyon to paint pots.

• Distance: 6 km out-and-back
• Elevation gain: 110 m
• Estimated time: 2 hours
• Trailhead: parking at the Marble Canyon trailhead or the Paint Pots trailhead on Highway 93

This trail connects two interesting attractions. The Marble Canyon is a wonder as you hike along the rim and on bridges above the canyon. The Paint Pots are a different sight, with the minerals colouring the rocks around them—plan for a muddy trail for this part. 

Dog Lake Trail

• Distance: 5 km out-and-back
• Elevation gain: 300 m
• Estimated time: 1.5 hours
• Trailhead: from the Dog Lake day-use area on Highway 93

This trail is a nice and easy walk through the forest over the Kootenay River and down to the lake. It is the perfect place for a picnic while enjoying the views of the surrounding mountains.

Stanley Glacier Trail

• Distance: 11 km out-and-back
• Elevation gain: 615 m
• Estimated time: 3 hours
• Rated moderate
• Trailhead: from the Stanley Glacier parking lot

My absolute favourite hike in Kootenay National Park. The first part of the trail is through a forested area. Once out of the trees, the view opens up to high cliffs, waterfalls and the glacier. I recommend hiking past the maintained trail to enjoy the glacier in full view. This will involve a bit of scrambling, but the views are stunning.

You can hike this trail with a guide as part of the Burgess Shale fossil hikes.

Attractions

Radium Hot Springs : unwind and relax in the hot pool at Radium Hot Springs. Open year-round, no reservations needed. 

Stop at the Numa Falls day-use picnic area. Have a picnic by the Vermillion River. A mere 300-meter walk along the river will bring you to the bridge over the river, where you can admire the falls.

Canadian Rockies Road Trip Stop 4: Lake Louise

Where is lake louise.

Lake Louise Village is 60 kilometres north of Banff on the Trans-Canada Highway. It is coveted for its emerald blue lakes and famous hiking trails. It is also from there that the famous Icefields Parkway begins.

The Lake Agnes Teahouse was built in 1901 as a refuge for hikers. It started serving tea and coffee in 1905. The Lake Agnes Teahouse is a famous destination for today’s hikers and can be reached hiking from the shore of Lake Louise. If you visit this charming teahouse, you might want to consider volunteering to lend a hand in bringing some garbage back down the trail, as the employees have to haul the provisions up and the trash down every day.

Hiking near Lake Louise 

There are too many hiking trails to name them all, but this list of family hikes includes the best of the easy trails around Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. 

Planes of Six Glaciers and the Agnes Lake Teahouse are the most popular and often very busy trails from Lake Louise, and for a good reason. They both offer amazing views and fantastic hiking adventures. The Big Beehive is a highly recommended hike with stunning views of Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. 

If you want a more challenging hike from Lake Louise, try scrambling Fairview Mountain or Devil’s Thumb. Both are unique challenges with gratifying views once at the top.

For the peak bagger readers on here, you can find more scrambles on this list of mountains to climb while you are in the area.

Hiking near Lake Moraine

Larch Valley to Sentinel Pass is a challenging hike, but the valley is amazing. And if you are up for a scramble, try your feet at Mount Temple . Note that this is a full-day challenging scramble for experienced hikers and scramblers. 

The Tower of Babel is rated an easy scramble, though it is physically challenging. The short hike brings you to the plateau of the tower, where the views are astounding. 

For a more leisurely hike, I recommend the Consolation Lakes Trail. This trail brings hikers to the lakes in a valley surrounded by mountains. Be aware of restrictions on this trail depending on the time of year because of bear activity.

What do to in Lake Louise (besides hiking)

• Summer Sightseeing Gondola at the Lake Louise Ski Resort
• Wildlife Interpretive Centre (free with the purchase of the Gondola ticket)
• Visit Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
• Visit Moraine Lake. As of the 2023 season, Moraine Lake will no longer be accessible by personal vehicle. Visitors will need to use a shuttle to get to Moraine Lake. More information here . 
• Rent a kayak to paddle Lake Louise or Moraine Lake. You can rent the equipment on-site.
• Enjoy one of the many biking trails. The Pipestone Loop is an easy and wide mountain biking trail for the less experienced biker. If you are new to mountain biking, you might consider booking a guided biking tour with Bikescape . In addition, you can rent equipment at the Wilson Mountain Sports Store in the Village.
• Shop at the Samson Mall for souvenirs. The mall includes a sporting store, a gift shop, a souvenir shop, an art gallery, a bookstore, a candy shop and a liquor store. There are also a bakery, a coffee shop and a grocery store.

Where to stay in Lake Louise Village?

The Mountaineer Lodge in downtown Lake Louise is a bed and breakfast offering rooms or suites with a fireplace.

Lake Louise Inn offers rooms or suites with a kitchenette and fireplace options.

For tourists travelling with their home, Lake Louise Campground is a beautiful campground by Bow River. An electric fence surrounds the tent section to protect campers from wildlife. The RV section can accommodate up to 180 units with service. It is best to reserve your campsite ahead of time. Some sites come with a fireplace, and others are in a no-campfire zone.

Where to eat in Lake Louise?

Lake Louise Inn’s Legends is a great option to eat out. The food is tasty.

Laggan’s Bakery and Delicatessen was a personal favourite of mine, with great coffee and amazing baked goods. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack. It is located in the Samson Mal l in the Village.

Bill Peyto’s Cafe was closed when we were there, but it came highly recommended, so I thought I would include it here. 

Other options:

• Lake Louise Village Bar and Grill
• Mountain Restaurant
• Javalanche Cafe
• Trailhead Cafe

There is a grocery store in the Village to replenish food supplies. The Village Market is pricy but convenient.

Lake Moraine Rock Pile for the perfect picture. This short trail from the Moraine Lake parking lot brings visitors to a pile of boulders from where the view of the lake with the 10 Peaks behind it is spectacular. The better capture the true blue of the lake, hike at dawn or early morning. 

Fairview Lookout trail from the Lake Louise day-use area. The short easy path brings hikers to a lookout over the lake with the Chateau behind it. It is stunning on a sunny day.

Canadian Rockies Road Trip Stop 5: Yoho National Park

We hopped over the border again to British Columbia to explore Yoho National Park. Yoho is full of hiking adventures and stunning landscapes. 

Where is Yoho National Park?

Yoho National Park is near Field, British Columbia. It is less than half an hour (28 kilometres) from the Village of Lake Louise on the Trans-Canada Highway. 

Field, BC, is a small community where you can stop for gas or snacks at the Yoho Trading Post. The Yoho National Park’s Visitor Centre is just across the street.

Hiking in Yoho National Park

Takakkaw falls trail.

• Distance: 1.3 km out-and-back
• Elevation gain: minimal
• Estimated time: 30 minutes
• Trailhead: from the Takakkaw Falls day-use parking area. 

This trail is primarily a leisurely walk on a paved path. It crosses a bridge with the high falls in full view. You will find a pair of Parks Canada red chairs on this trail. The hike brings you up close to the falls to experience the thundering noise and the mist from the falling water from 254 metres high. 

Emerald Lake Loop

• Distance: 5 km loop
• Trailhead: from the Emerald Lake day-use area parking lot. 

This trail makes a loop around Emerald Lake, hugging the shoreline for half the way. You will come across benches, perfect for enjoying the views. The second part of the trail wanders in a lush forest and comes to a beautiful meadow before returning to the lake near the Emerald Lodge. This is a busy spot in the park, and parking is limited. Make sure to arrive early or use patience while waiting for a parking space.

For an added challenge, you can add the Emerald Basin Trail to this hike. You will come to the Emerald Basin Trail intersection at the lake’s far end. This will add an extra 6 kilometres to the hike, making it an 11-kilometre hike with an elevation gain of 380 metres. Once you reach the end of Emerald Basin Trail, you return to the Emerald Loop by the same path and continue on the shoreline to finish the loop. 

Paget Lookout

• Distance: 7 km out-and-back
• Elevation gain: 520 m
• Trailhead: from the parking lot across Wapta Lake on Highway 1 just west of the Great Divide Lodge

This moderate hike has decent elevation gain and astounding views. The hike starts in the forest and gains altitude rapidly. Once above the tree line, you come to an old fire lookout from the 1970s. The building is now a day shelter, and the view of the valley is stunning. 

For an extra challenge, the trail continues and quickly becomes a scramble to the summit of Paget Peak. The scramble can be tedious, but the reward at the top is worthwhile. You can walk around the plateau and admire the surrounding mountains with a 360-degree view. Sherbrooke Lake and Wapta Lake are also visible below. 

Natural Bridge is a rock wall that the raging water carved its way under to turn into a bridge. You can get up close to the bridge and hike on either side of the river. 

Spiral Train Tunnels are a popular attraction. The interpretive signs tell the story of the previous dangerous train tracks and the construction of the spiral tunnels, a feat in itself. If you stand long enough on the lookout, you might see the train entering and exiting the tunnel. 

Meeting of the Waters is a cool attraction where the blue glacial water and the whitewater of two rivers meet. The Kicking Horse River and the Yoho River converge in a beautiful mix of colours. 

Lake O’Hara is a stunning alpine lake in Yoho National Park. It is in a remote area that can only be accessed by a park shuttle. If you wish to spend time at the lake, you must make reservations well in advance, as the seating on the shuttle is limited and very popular. You can make your reservations on the Parks Canada Website . You can also stay overnight at the Lake O’Hara Campground, the Elizabeth Parker Hut or the Lake O’Hara Lodge. Reservations to one of these accommodations are required but will include the shuttle.

Wapta Falls are a must-see when exploring Yoho National Park. An easy 2-kilometre hike on a wide and well-maintained trail will bring you to the falls. Once you come to the falls, the trail continues along the river down to the lower falls. This is the best vantage point to admire the full beauty of Wapta Falls.

Emerald Lake is the gem of the park. It is a sublime turquoise lake fed by glaciers and surrounded by mountains. Make time during your stay to visit this stunning lake.

Canadian Rockies Road Trip Stop 6: Glacier National Park

After exploring Yoho, we made our way west, driving for about an hour to Glacier National Park for more hiking adventures through the rainforests and glaciers of this fantastic park.

Where is Glacier National Park?

Glacier National Park is in eastern British Columbia, less than an hour’s drive (60 kilometres) from Golden, BC, on the Trans-Canada Highway. It is 250 kilometres east of Kamloops, BC. 

Hiking in Glacier National Park

Meeting of the waters.

• Distance: 3.5 km loop
• Trailhead: from the Illecillewaet Campground 

The easy trail wanders in the forest to a bridge where the waters meet. It is a leisurely walk through hemlock and spruce.

Great Glacier Trail

• Distance: 8.5 km out-and-back
• Elevation gain: 320 m
• Trailhead:  from the Illecillewaet Campground 

This trail was once a hike up to the glacier’s toe, but it has since receded over 1500 metres from the trail’s end. Nevertheless, the views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers make this trail a top hike in the park. 

Glacier Crest Trail

• Distance: 13.5 km out-and-back
• Elevation gain: 960 m
• Estimated time: 6 hours
• Rated difficult

This hike starts in a lush forest with giant pines. Then, through a few switchbacks, hikers will find themselves above tree line on the ridge between two valleys carved by glaciers with a lookout on the Illecillewaet Glacier. 

Hermit Trail

• Elevation gain: 820 m
• Estimated time: 4 hours
• Trailhead: 1.5 kilometres east of Rogers Pass Discovery Centre

This short but challenging hike through steep switchbacks combines rock stairs and rope-assisted scramble to bring hikers to an alpine meadow with stunning views. 

Explore the Rogers Pass National Historic Site by walking along the 1885 Trail or completing the Loop Brook. They are both easy and flat trails. 

If you plan to make the 1885 Trail entirely out and back, the distance totals 9 kilometres. It connects the Illecillewaet and Loop Brook campgrounds. The Loop Brook is under 2 kilometres, but sturdy shoes are recommended.

The historic site includes the ruins of Glacier House and the ruins of the stone pillars of the old railway tracks. It is said that they are among the oldest-built structures in western Canada. 

Visit the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre for its informative exhibit on avalanches and wildlife and learn much about the area’s history.

Canadian Rockies Road Trip Stop 7: Golden

On our way back from Glacier National Park, we stopped in Golden for some exploring and sightseeing. 

Where is Golden, BC?

Golden is a small city in southeast British Columbia. It sits by the Kicking Horse River on the Trans-Canada Highway. Golden is a four-hour drive (360 km) west of Kamloops or three hours (260 km) east of Calgary. 

Top Things to do in Golden

The Golden Skybridge is the highest suspension bridge in Canada. The challenge of this hike does not come from the trail’s difficulty. It is a wide, well-maintained path. It comes from surmounting your fear of heights as you walk on the two suspension bridges across the Columbia Valley. 

Mountain biking is a popular sport in this region. The Kicking Horse Resort is a ski resort in winter but turns into a mountain biking heaven in the winter. So, if this is your sport, the Kicking Horse Resort is your spot. 

Visit the Northern Lights Wolf Center , where rescued wolves live safely until they can be released into the wild. Some wolves make this refuge their forever home because of exceptional circumstances. The owners are dedicated to their wildlife refuge, and their love for the animals is evident. The interpretive guides are knowledgeable and engaging. 

Visit Boo at the Grizzly Bear Refuge . The refuge is set in the mountain among the trails in the Kicking Horse Resort. The interpretive tours will teach you all about Boo, the grizzly, his rescue and his life at the refuge. If you are lucky, he will come and say hi.

The Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is a must to make this road trip complete. We decided to explore each section of the parkway over a few days while staying at campgrounds along the way.

Most campgrounds on the parkway are on a first-come, first-served basis. Those that are reservable will also welcome walk-ins (or rather drive-ins). There are usually plenty of sites, and after two summers spent along the Icefields Parkway, I have always found a site to spend the night, even during high season.

Campgrounds on the Icefields Parkway (in Banff National Park)

• Mosquito Creek Campground (27 km from Lake Louise)
• Silverhorn Creek Campground (55 km from Lake Louise)
• Waterfowl Lakes Campground (62 km from Lake Louise)
• Rampart Creek Campground (94 km from Lake Louise)

Campgrounds on the Icefields Parkway (in Jasper National Park)

• Wilcox Creek Campground (107 km from Jasper)
• Icefields Tent (105 km from Jasper)
• Icefields RV (103 km from Jasper)
• Jonas Creek Campground (77 km from Jasper)
• Honeymoon Lake Campground (52 km from Jasper)
• Kerkeslin Campground (35 km from Jasper)
• Wabasso Campground (17 km from Jasper)
• Wapiti Campground (6 km from Jasper)
• Whistlers Campground (4 km from Jasper)

It is possible to drive the Icefields Parkway in one day and choose which stops and attractions you want to prioritize. To help you decide on which stops you might most enjoy, this list of the most compelling attractions on the parkway will help.

Canadian Rockies Road Trip Stop 8: Jasper

Our last stop in the Canadian Rockies is the charming town of Jasper, Alberta. This tourist town, too, surrounded by mountains, offers many outdoor adventures.

Where is Jasper?

Jasper is a Canadian Rockies town in northern Alberta. It is a nearly 5-hour drive (400 km) north of Calgary or 4 hours (360 km) west of Edmonton. 

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a luxurious hotel on the shore of Lac Beauvert in Jasper. Celebrities like James Stewart, John F. Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe stayed at the lodge occasionally. In addition, numerous films and tv shows were set on the grounds while the actors stayed at the lodge.

Hiking in Jasper National Park

There are numerous hiking trails around Jasper. If you are visiting with children or prefer easy hiking trails, the list of hiking options is endless. There are a few options listed in this list of family-friendly hikes . My favourites are Valley of the Five Lakes and Pyramid Island Loop.

For moderate hikes, Jasper does not disappoint. Among hikers’ favourites are Opal Hills Trail and Bald Hills Trail, both in the Lake Maligne area. The Sulphur Skyline Trail is also a must for avid hikers in the region. This one is in the Miette Hot Spring area. 

For peak baggers, I highly recommend Pyramid Mountain and Roche Miette . They are stunning mountains that offer unique challenges, and the views from their summits are unprecedented. 

Another favourite is the Indian Ridge which starts at the top of the Jasper Skytram. Here too, the views are stunning.

What to do in Jasper (besides hiking)

The Jasper Skytram will bring you to the top of Whistlers Mountain, where you can hike the last few hundred metres to the summit. If you don’t feel like hiking to the summit, the views from the boardwalk outside the Skytram’s terminal are breathtaking and well worth the trip. 

Jasper Planetarium and Dark Sky Telesc o pe Tours at the Jasper Lodge will amaze every stargazer. 

Spend some relaxing time at the Miette Hot Springs .

Mountain Biking on the many bike trails around Jasper. The Bench Bike Shop can outfit you with what you need for a mountain trail or a stroll around town. Need a tour guide? Try Journey Bike Guides .

Rock climbing and mountaineering with a guide.

Kayaking or canoeing on Maligne Lake. You can rent kayaks and boats on-site. 

Book a whitewater rafting tour on the Athabasca River or the Sunwapta River . There are family rafting tours and easy raft trips available.

For the foodie in you, take a food tour in downtown Jasper.

Visit the Jasper Mountain Galleries in the Jasper Park Lodge or the Jasper Yellowhead Museum on Bonhomme Street in Jasper.

Need more ideas? Spa, horseback riding, fishing, golfing, shopping

Sundog Tours

Take the Jasper Train Tour to McBride, BC, with a stop in Mount Robson Park. This is a full-day tour where you ride by bus to McBride with the chauffeur as a guide to point out all the highlights along the route. There are two stops in Mount Robson Park in British Columbia. Then, in McBride, take the train back to Jasper.

Where to Eat in Jasper?

Earls Jasper was perfect for a night out to eat. We had a balcony table on the second floor; the view was amazing, and so was the food!

Jasper Pizza is an excellent option for dinner, eat-in or delivery. They are open for lunch from Friday to Sunday but at 4 pm the rest of the week.

Camping in Jasper

There are a few options for camping near Jasper. All of them are good, but the services they offer are different.

• My favourite was Snaring Campground, a bit out of town off the Yellowhead Highway just past the Palisades Centre. It does not have any service and is on a first-come, first-served basis campground. I loved it because the campsites are under the canopy of trees, making it a bit more private. 
• Whistlers and Wapiti are also good options. They both have electrical sites and showers and toilets. The Whistlers Campground also has oTENTik huts. You can make reservations ahead of time for both of these campgrounds on the Parks Canada Website . I stayed at the Wapiti Campground and loved having the elks graze around the campground, but the sites are in a field with no privacy. Same with the Whistlers.

Maligne Lake Boat Tour to Spirit Island is an iconic Canadian adventure. This small island, only reachable by boat, is a picture-perfect scene with the majestic blue lake and the mountains in the backdrop.

Make time to visit the Mount Edith Cavell area. The easy path leads visitors under the glacier, with the powder blue lake at its toe. The majestic Mount Edith Cavell standing high above the meadow is an impressive sight.

Last Words on the Ultimate Road Trip in the Canadian Rockies

This is the end of our road trip across the Canadian Rockies, which has taken us through two provinces and five national parks. This itinerary in the Canadian Rockies, including Banff and Jasper, has some of the best adventures this astounding landscape offers. The adventures in this part of the country are limitless, and we will be back for more soon.

There are endless adventurous road trips in Canada. Click here for more Canadian road trip options.

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Josanne is a Canadian adventurer and traveller. She shares her passion, hoping to inspire and empower individuals to embark on extraordinary Canadian travel adventures. She is committed to sharing immersive experiences celebrating Canada's unique landscapes, wildlife, and cultures while promoting responsible and mindful travels that cherish Canada's natural wonders.

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What an amazing post and the photos are stunning, thank you for sharing…some of the Rockies were on our DO list though this post has inspired me to add more…

Thank you! It is a fantastic region to visit. I hope you get to enjoy it as much as I did!

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Epic 10 day Canadian Rockies Itinerary & Road Trip

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Canada’s showstopper mountains await you in Banff, Jasper and Yoho National Park. In this post, we will share an EPIC 10 day Canadian Rockies Itinerary in a road trip format. 

At these national parks located primarily in Alberta, you will see the Canadian Rockies in all their glory. Living in Edmonton, the Canadian Rockies have been our weekend getaway for years, and we really enjoyed all of our road trips here, and continue to do so!

Table of Contents

Canadian Rockies Itinerary: An epic 10 day Canadian Rockies Road Trip Itinerary

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Banff National Park was recognized as a national park in 1885. In Banff, you will be mesmerized by stunning mountain views, pristine lakes and rivers, outdoor activities, slow traveling, good food, and great hospitality. 

There are five national parks located within the Canadian Rockies. Four of them are adjacent to each other and make up the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks. 

These four parks are 

• Banff National Park, 
• Jasper Banff National Park, 
• Kootenay Banff National Park, 
• Yoho Banff National Park,
• Waterton National Park 

We will explore the 3 national parks (and at least five lakes or more) in 10 days. Here are quick planning tips for your Yoho, Banff, and Jasper itinerary 

Entry fees:

There are entry fees required at all the National Parks in Canada including at Banff, Jasper, and Yoho. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass for an individual or family/group. It’s payable at the gate. Make sure to tape the entry pass on your vehicle’s windshield.

The fee is calculated based on the number of days you spend at the park. If you are staying in Banff for 1 to 24 hours, regardless of your accommodation, you will pay for a 1-day entry fee. Similarly, if you stay for additional nights, you pay per day for park entry fees.

All the national parks have the same entry fee and the same rules. For example, let’s say you are driving from Banff National Park to Jasper National Park, and you have paid for your park entry in Banff; so long as the time/day/date are covered, you will not need to pay again. 

Just show your pass at the gate. If you are not entering the national parks but are traveling via the Trans-Canada Highway, you do not need to pay any park fees.

• Entry fee for individual parks is $19.60 CAD/day for a vehicle. Parks Canada offers free entry for youth – 17 years and under for National Parks only.
• You can also purchase The Discovery Pass, for unlimited admission for a full year at over 80 Parks Canada, valid for 12 months from date of purchase.

Day 1: Arrive in Calgary Canada and drive to Banff

If you are traveling or flying from the United States or the east coast of Canada, you will most likely arrive in Calgary. Calgary is one of the largest cities in Alberta and is also the nearest airport to Banff National Park.

On day 1 of your Canadian Rockies Itinerary, arrive in Calgary . 

To drive to Banff, you can rent a car from Calgary International Airport or from anywhere in the city. Purchase insurance and track the kms that you travel. Many rental companies operate in Calgary, Alberta, including at the airport.

Note you can also hop on a bus to reach Banff town from Calgary. Buses are available to take you from the Calgary airport or major hotels to Banff. Shuttle bus tickets range from about $69 to $169 CAD. Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket counter at the airport.

Driving time from Calgary to Banff is 1 hour 30 minutes. And you can travel via Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 W. 

Top Hotels/Airbnbs to stay in Banff : 

• Rimrock Resort Hotel: Located in Banff town, Rimrock Hotel is a nice 4-star property, with beautiful suites, restaurants on site. For breathtaking views, opt for a room with mountain views. Check out reviews and photos here
• Juniper Hotel : Based a little further away from Banff town, but Juniper Hotel has a gorgeous bistro to die for. We love staying here for amazing morning breakfast views. Click to check prices and availability
• Find Airbnbs in Banff

Restaurants to try out in Banff:

• Magpie and Stump
• Park Distillery and Bar
• Nourish Bistro Banff
• Other eats: Boston Pizza, Good Earth Cafe, Balkan Restaurant

Day 2: Explore Banff town  

Next morning, wake up to a warm breakfast in the downtown area . Our pick is Touloulou’s. Today’s itinerary will be an easy one, and will revolve in and around Banff Avenue. So it is a good idea to hang out at a breakfast cafe and enjoy a mountain staycation. 

Wander Banff town and explore its beautiful streets. At Banff Avenue you will find tons of photo opportunities as well as souvenir stores to buy goodies back home. 

There are tons of free parking lots available in the downtown area. We recommend that you park your car and walk around the downtown area, before driving to the Banff Gondola.

After breakfast and time at Banff Avenue, drive to the Sulphur Mountains Sightseeing area. The Sulphur Mountains are a mountain range in the Canadian Rockies. They are best-known for the 8-minute Banff Gondola ride to the top. 

There is free parking available at the Sulphur Mountain Gondola. Washrooms, gift shops and Starbucks Cafe are also located in the complex. Gondola rides start at $59 CAD, and includes a trip to the mountain top and back. 

You can easily spend a couple of hours here checking out the valley and soaking in mountain views. There are various levels to explore the scenic views from an 360 degree observation deck to stunning boardwalks and a Sky Bistro! 

Our favorite is the boardwalk, where you can enjoy a lovely stroll (2 km) to Sanson’s Peak and the Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station—a National Historic Site of Canada.

Sulphur Mountain Gondola is open all year round. During winters, they also organize special events like ‘Christmas on Mountaintop’, Stargazing and festive dining at the Sky Bistro (restaurant). 

If you do not wish to pay for a Gondola ride, you can also hike/walk the Sulphur Mountains in about 2 hours. 

From Banff Gondola, head to the Bow Falls . The falls are located right by the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (which has parking and is completely accessible without hiking).

Spend 30 minutes or so at the Bow Falls. And then opt for a Castle Food Tour at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. It is a perfect way to relish culinary delights from a master chef, and also learn about the history of this heritage hotel and food in Alberta. 

In the evening, it’s time for a walk at the Cascade of Time Gardens. This place is super stunning and it looks like a fairy tale, with the gorgeous mountains and a Tudor Gothic Revival-style administrative building. 

The Cascade Gardens are my absolute favorite best photo spots in Banff. They are located not too far from downtown Banff, so you can easily walk to this photo spot. 

During summers the daylight hours will be longer, so you can even have a nice stroll as late as 08:00 pm. Gardens are open every day from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm. Access is free.  

Day 3: Explore Lakes and Banff Hot Springs

On day 3, drive inside Banff National Park and stop by beautiful lakes. Start the day early to make the most of this drive to 3 lakes – Minnewanka Lake, Two Jack Lake, and Moraine Lake.

Lake Minnewanka is located 11 kilometers from Banff town. The lake is easily accessible by road, with parking spaces available. Not only is it one of the best photo spots in Banff but it is also a great place to kayak or take a cruise to Spirit River, tasting some wine and cheese on the go. The stunning mountains and beautiful lake make for more picture-perfect moments.

At the Lake Minnewanka Loop, you might be lucky and see bighorn sheep. You can also take a leisurely cruise on the lake. 

Activities in and around Lake Minnewanka

• Walk or stroll the beautiful lake Minnewanka boardwalk and sightseeing areas. 
• A variety of Lake Minnewanka Cruises are available from June to September. More information on cruises, schedules and current prices  
• If you wish to hike in Banff , you can go on a 40 minute Stewart Canyon Trail (easy to moderate level hiking). 
• If you have additional time on your hands, embark on Aylmer Pass (23.4 km round trip). The trail includes a climb to 560 meters, to reveal a stunning panoramic view of “The Lake of The Spirits.”

Up next is the Two Jack Lake – a pristine lake located on the Lake Minnewanka Loop. Two Jack Lake is perfect for swimming and kayaking. During the summer, it’s a great place to sit back, picnic, or read a book. 

Two Jack Lake is where Salil and I got married. It is definitely one of the most beautiful spots in the Canadian Rockies (and one that is not overly crowded)!

Speaking of crowds, Moraine Lake is notorious for that! The stunning site of the mountains, lake, and colorful kayaks at the dock is one of the most iconic images of Banff National Park. It is just so pretty! 

It is not difficult to take this shot; the problem lies in finding parking and making your way to the lake. 

During the summer months, especially in the afternoons, you might find yourself stuck in traffic (i.e., lining up to find a parking spot). To avoid this, head to the lake in the morning before 09:00 am or after 05:00 pm. 

In 2020, even with restrictions on international travel the parking lot at Moraine Lake was filled as early as 5:00 am. We have been lucky to find parking in the evenings (with a 5 to 10 minute wait). 

Note that access is closed in the winters, starting from Canadian Thanksgiving day in October.

You can opt for a full day at Moraine Lake too if you like. Come early at 4:30 am or 5 am, find a parking spot and take your sunrise Instagram shots taken, and then spend the entire day outdoors.

Hiking Trails in and around Moraine Lake 

• Larch Valley: The Larch Valley hike is one of the easiest hikes in the Moraine Lake area. It lasts for 1-2 hours.
• Sentinel Pass: Sentinel Pass is a continuation of the Larch Valley hike and will take you higher above for incredible views of the Valley of the Ten Peaks, at an elevation of 732 meters. It’s a 12-km hike (round-trip).
• Consolation Lakes: Another easy hike at 60 meters’ elevation and a duration of 1-2 hours

After a day of hiking (or lake sightseeing) soak in hot thermal waters, while sipping a drink and taking in those gorgeous mountains views. 

The Upper Banff Hot Springs are a delight after a long day of hike, or sightseeing. These thermal waters were discovered in 1883, and have been pulling tourists since then. Imagine soaking into warm waters and looking over at the Mount Rundle. 

Banff Upper Hot Springs admission fees are $8.30 (adult), $6.30 (youth), and children under the age of 3 are free. Don’t forget to carry your swimwear! If not, you can rent one at the Hot Springs Complex . 

Day 4: Day trip to Lake Louise

Lake Louise is THE most recognizable image of the Canadian Rockies. It is located about 90 minutes outside Banff town, in the hamlet of Lake Louise, Alberta. 

You can embark on the Trans Canada Hwy and reach Lake Louise (quickest way). There are parking areas, washroom close to Lake Louise. 

A glacial-fed lake, Lake Louise sparkles a pristine blue turquoise hue in the summertime, making it perfect for memorable holiday shots, nature photography, and outdoor activities. 

The iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is located near the lake, and the town centre of Lake Louise is an excellent area to have a meal, buy souvenirs and candy! 

• The most popular activities in Lake Louise include horseback riding day trips during the summer season and sleigh rides in the winter. Read our entire guide to visiting Lake Louise in winter 
• Lake Louise Ski Resort is also a popular spot for winter activities in the mountains
• You can rent a canoe from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise’s Boathouse to go deeper and closer to the scenic mountains. Rentals start at $85 CAD per hour. 
• For a romantic staycation and celebrations, stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise . Book one of the deluxe spa treatments whilst enjoying amazing views.

We recommend starting early and staying here for a day. During summers, you can hike the 2.2 mile to the Tea House, which starts on the shores of Lake Louise near the Fairmont Chateau Hotel. It is a moderate trail and takes about 1.50 to 2 hours. You can relax at the tea house, and then embark on a return trip. Keep in mind it is seasonal, and is only open during summer months. 

NOTE: Finding accommodation in Lake Louise in the summer is difficult. But if you are lucky we recommend staying here for a few days and continuing to Yoho National Park as a day trip, and then head to Jasper National Park. 

If accommodation is an issue, you can still keep your Banff hotel as base, and drive to Lake Louise and back (Day 4), and do the same on day 5 for Yoho National Park.

Day 5: Head to Yoho National Park British Columbia

Yoho National Park is located in the province of British Columbia and forms a part of the Canadian Rockies mountain range. It is a phenomenal place—a protected alpine paradise—and it deserves at least one day on your road trip itinerary.

Driving Distance

• Banff to Yoho National Park : 1.25 hours 
• Lake Louise to Yoho : 40 minute

You don’t have to pay any entry fees at Yoho National Park, if you have already pre-paid for 10 days at the Banff entrance. 

There are tons of things to see in Yoho National Park, but we will stick to a few for a day trip itinerary. We highly recommend stopping by the Takakkaw Falls, the Kicking Horse River, and the ever-so-beautiful turquoise-colored Emerald Lake. You can certainly cover the highlights in a day, as well as fit in a short hike or leisurely canoe ride.

While road tripping from Banff/Lake Louise to Yoho National Park, you will arrive at Lower Spiral Tunnel. This viewpoint is located 7.4 km east of Field on the Trans-Canada Highway (your first stop for the day).

There are informative displays on the Spiral Tunnels and the Kicking Horse Pass National Historic Site of Canada . These tunnels were created when British Columbia joined the Canadian Confederation and a railway network was constructed. A quick stop is all you need, but if you wish to capture the trains pass through you will have to wait for a while. (About 25 to 30 trains pass through the Spiral Tunnels every day).

Next on the Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary is the Natural Bridge – a convenient spot to capture the nature-scape of the Canadian Rockies. This is a unique phenomenon in which 2 rocks create a bridge-like structure. 

The turquoise blue water that passes through it makes this bridge quite unique. You don’t have to hike or spend hours to get to this beautiful spot. The bridge is easily accessible via the Trans-Canada Highway and parking is available right in front of it. 

When heading west, you will come to the turn off for Yoho Valley Road (to Takakkaw Falls). Instead of heading to the falls, continue west on the highway (past the town of Field) and make a turn at Emerald Lake Road. Near the start of the road is the spot from which you can admire Natural Bridge. 

From Natural Bridge, continue on to the end of the road to reach the Emerald Lake . The Emerald Lake is enclosed by mountains—President Range, Mount Burgess, and Wapta, and is one of the prettiest places in the Canadian Rockies. 

Although accessible in winters too, the lake looks different and has different activities for each season. The area is great for cross country skiing in the winter. Rain is frequent in the summertime, and in June and July you can canoe and hike in and around the lake shore.

There are accessible hiking trails near the lake (first half of 5.5-km circuit). Parking is available nearby and you can also find a gift shop, cafe and restaurant, and the beautiful Emerald lodge for overnight stay. 

For lunch, head to the town of Field. It is a small town in British Columbia and is home to only 300 residents. This is an excellent spot for lunch. Eat at the Truffle Pigs Bistro – our favorite!

After lunch, drive to one of the most powerful falls in the Canadian Rockies. About 4 km from the town of Field is the Yoho Valley Road, located off the Trans-Canada Highway are the Takakkaw Falls. 

Note that the access to the falls are open from mid-June to mid-October. Also when you are driving it is important to know that the Yoho Valley road is steep and narrow, with a set of switchbacks that makes driving both challenging and interesting. 

Once there the Takakkaw Falls will take your breath away! It is one of the highest waterfalls in North America, and it creates a powerful cascade that tumbles 830 feet into the river below.

The scenic drive to the Falls takes about 30 minutes. You can also see wildlife along the way. We recommend not stopping for pictures here; as the roads are steep and narrow, you can easily cause traffic congestion here.

After parking your car, you have to walk a short trail and a wooden bridge to see the Takakkaw Falls. The water rushing down to the edge of the barren cliffs and the surrounding sea of coniferous forest make Takakkaw Falls one of the most picturesque scenic points in the Canadian Rockies.

After a fun-filled day at the Yoho National Park, return to Banff or Lake Louise Hotel.

Day 6: Jasper National Park for 2 days   

Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. You can arrive in Jasper town via Banff or Lake Louise, either way, get ready to be mesmerized as you drive the ever stunning Icefields Parkway!

Driving Time

• Banff to Jasper Town: 3 hours, 29 minutes (287.9 km) 
• Lake Louise to Jasper Town: 2 hours, 57 minutes (233.0 km)

Use day 6 to drive to Jasper town and really take your time to enjoy the scenic view. We have taken the routes in summer as well as in winter – great views each time! But if you have never driven on winter roads, we recommend that you visit in the summer or early fall months. 

If you drive while stopping at a few lookout points, you can easily spend 5 to 6 hours on the road. Always find a safe place to stop by and take in views. Please do not go slow while driving as it could lead to traffic congestion. 

For the purposes of his itinerary, we recommend exploring the 2 highlights 

Johnston Canyon – Johnston Canyon is located 25 km from Banff and it takes about 2-3 hours to explore, so ensure you add that to your itinerary. 

Bow Summit/Peyto Lake – Peyto Lake is one of the most stunning and photograph lakes in Canada. It is located about 100 km from Banff and 188km from Jasper. To enjoy some scenic views, embark on the 2.9-km hike to capture the stunning turquoise-coloured lake. 

You will arrive in Jasper town in the evening. So pack some snacks for your (almost) day long road trip. The good thing is that the road to Jasper National Park from Banff is lined with wildlife corridors along with scenic views and watching them is a real treat.

Stay in Jasper National Park for the next 2 nights.  Book your stay at Jasper Inn & Suites

Day 7: Jasper Sightseeing 

Start your day with breakfast at the heart of Jasper town. You will find cute local cafes to kick start your day! 

After breakfast, it’s time to start exploring. Jasper is home to a couple of lakes that are located pretty close to the downtown area. First off, let’s start with Pyramid Lake. This is a kidney-shaped lake located about 5 to 7-minute drive from Jasper town. 

This is the prettiest area in Jasper for unwinding and admiring the natural beauty of the Rockies. Pyramid Lake lies at the foothills of Pyramid Mountain—hence, the name. The lake is located at an elevation of 1,180 meters.

During the summer, you can join a canoe tour or go kayaking at the Pyramid Lake.Or hike – the Pyramid Lake Hike is an easy hike (5.2 km one way). It begins near the Jasper Activity Centre parking lot and ends at the end of the Pyramid Lake road, near the wooden foot bridge. 

Patricia Lake is another lake, located very close to Pyramid Mountain and lake. During the summer months, you can also swim, canoe, or picnic here and be mesmerized by the stunning mountain backdrops. The lake has a resort with boating facilities (Patricia Lake Bungalows).

Activities at Patricia Lake are similar to its next door neighbour Pyramid Lake. It is a great spot to view wildlife in Jasper National Park. 

During summers, you must visit the Jasper Skytram . It is the highest and longest tramway in Canada and located at a height of 2,277 meters above sea level. You can take the Jasper Skytram to the summit lookout area, to enjoy stunning views of the Canadian Rockies.

During the peak summer months, the Skytram opens at 8:00 a.m. During the fall, the Jasper Skytram opens its doors at 9:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. It is closed in winter. Fees are $52 CAD for adult entry. Feel free to skip the Skytram, if you have already taken the Banff Gondola (and save some cash).

From the Skytram, drive to the Athabasca Falls . The Falls are located about 15-20 minutes from downtown Jasper. These stunning falls are about 23 meters high and are on the west side of the Icefields Parkway—Columbia Icefield. It receives water from the glaciers of the Icefields Parkway, making it the largest river system in Jasper National Park. (We will be heading to the Icefield on day 8)

Athabasca Falls is a great place to hike and capture some of the stunning mountains and waterfalls. While hiking in and around Athabasca Falls, be mindful of slippery surfaces such as the boardwalk, rocks, and the trail in general. During the winter, trail access is closed for safety reasons.

To see the waterfalls up close, you do not need to hike. A short walk along the trail to the boardwalk will take you to these majestic falls. 

Close to the falls is the Maligne Canyon . (located about 12-15 minutes away from downtown Jasper). Maligne Canyon is stunning. So over the years, the lake’s waves have beat against the rocks and walls of the hills to create beautiful craters. 

The canyon area contains waterfalls, underground stream outlets, birds, and flora and fauna and has hiking trails for all levels. Maligne Canyon Loop Trail is a 3.4-km trail along which you can see waterfalls and go bird watching. 

Other things to add to your itinerary 

Maligne Lake – One of the most picturesque locations in Jasper National Park is Maligne Lake. The lake is beautiful, with rare turquoise waters and a small islet called Spirit Island.

The drive to Maligne Lake is also one of the most scenic routes in the Canadian Rockies. The drive starts near the town of Jasper and ends at Maligne Lake. Along the way, you can stop at Maligne Canyon and the popular Hanging Valley viewpoint.

The scenic road to Maligne Lake is built along the glacier valley that runs between the Maligne and Elizabeth mountain ranges. This is why you will see stunning mountain peaks, glacier lakes, and tons of wildlife on your way.

Medicine Lake – This is a 7-km picturesque lake located approximately 20 km southeast of downtown Jasper. Medicine Lake is shallow and forms part of the Maligne Valley watershed. 

Day 8: Athabasca Glacier & Columbia Icefield Discovery Center 

We highly recommend reserving a FULL day to enjoy and explore the Athabasca Glacier. The glacier is best explored as a day-long tour to the Columbia Icefields Parkway, located in the Canadian Rockies. 

As you might already know, the Columbia Icefields are the largest glaciers in Canada. Athabasca Glacier is one of the distributions of the Columbia Icefields.

Guided tours, with glacier walks and skywalk services to the Athabasca Glacier, are offered to visitors which commences at the Icefield Discovery Centre. Entry to the Discovery Centre is included in the park admission fees, but tours are priced separately. 

The Banff Jasper Collection tour collective offers Athabasca Glacier tours. These guided tours include a trip to Athabasca Glacier and Skywalk. You will be taken to the glacier in a special vehicle and will be allowed time on the glacier surface. Take pictures, walk the surface, and live the experience.

The Sunwapta River is a tributary of the Athabasca River. The Sunwapta Falls is a pair of waterfalls in the same river. The falls are accessible via the Icefields Parkway, which connects Jasper and Banff National Parks. Note that the Icefields are far from Banff (185km from Banff), than Jasper (103km). 

Day 9 Hiking in Jasper National Park

Spend your final day in Jasper National Park hiking. Here are a few popular trails

• Edith Cavell Meadows Trail –  This is a 6.1-km loop trail in Jasper, of moderate intensity. This trail offers a number of activities, such as hiking and bird and nature watching. Mount Edith Cavell is one of the most prominent peaks within Jasper National Park. 
• Sulphur Skyline Trail – The Sulphur Skyline Trail offers some of the most stunning views of Jasper National Park. The Sulphur Skyline trail road is closed for the winter and usually opens in May as the temperatures rise. 

After an eventful day at the Sulphur Skyline trail ride, head to Miette Hot Springs . The springs are located right at the trailhead of the Sulphur Skyline hike, which is about 61 kilometers northeast of Jasper.

Whether or not you hike, you must head there to soak in the amazing views and the warm waters of the Rockies. Miette Hot Springs is an outdoor pool, offering a great view of the Fiddle River Valley. 

Day 10: Jasper to Calgary via Canmore for lunch

Today’s the day to drive back to Calgary and fly out. We recommend that you start early and make a stop at Canmore before reaching Calgary Airport. 

Jasper to Canmore is about 3.50 hours drive. Canmore is a small town located 20 minutes outside of Banff town. If you start at 8:00 am ish, you will be in Canmore by lunch time. There are tons of cafes and restaurants here to relax and have a delicious meal (we actually prefer walking in Canmore town more than Banff, as it’s less commercialised). 

• Top Restaurant Picks : Spice Hut, J Bakery, Mexican Aroma Restaurant
• Activities: Canmore Nordic Centre, Grassi Lakes Hike, Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk,  Big Head Sculpture, Yoga and recreational centres

From Canmore, you will arrive in Calgary in about an hour. For an overnight stay in Calgary near the airport, stay at our favorite Hampton Inn Suites. 

We hope you enjoyed our 10 day Canadian Rockies Itinerary. You can easily adjust this itinerary and make it longer or shorter than 10 days. 

Have questions about Canadian Rockies, ask us? 

Pin: Canadian Rockies Road Trip Itinerary

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

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10 Comments

This looks like a magical trip! Lake Louise has been on my list for a while, but I would love to turn it into a 10 day adventure and visit all of these other amazing spots that you’ve shared!

The views from the gondola look amazing! I love anywhere with that turquoise, glacial water.

Absolutely beautiful. Canadian Rockies have been on my wish list for a very long time, especially a visit to Banff. This gives me motivation and ideas.

Love this itinerary! I really want to go on a road trip here so I’m saving this for when I plan it so I can refer back to these stops and tips.

I would love to return to Canada and explore the Rockies, especially Banff. Yoho National Park looks pretty spectacular as well.

I hope you visit us soon!

Your photos are amazing – that pic of the Banff Gondola was just

You are very kind! Thank you so much 🙂

We followed this intinerary in July 2022 and had a fantastic trip, thanks for all of the suggestions. The scenery was spectacular. For our first trip to Canada it was one of our best vacations and we felt this allowed us to see the majority of attractions and sights. I would highly recommend using this itinerary.

YAY! I am so glad Dave! Thank you for sharing 🙂

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• Canadian Rockies Itineraries

Two Weeks In The Canadian Rockies – An Epic Road Trip Guide for Motorhome Travellers and Nature Lovers (2024 Update)

45 Comments

• January 19, 2024

Thousands of kilometres of breathtaking mountain valleys, icefields 3 times the size of Paris and more unique photography locations than you will be able to visit in your lifetime. That’s what awaits you on my road trip itinerary around the Canadian Rockies.

Canadian Rockies Two-Week Road Trip Overview

What type of traveller is this Canadian Rockies road trip perfect for?

Do you like to venture onto backcountry trails? Are you up for some hiking adventures? This Canadian Rockies road trip is designed for those who love to be outside and don’t plan on seeing the Rockies through the window of their car. 

This road trip is mainly designed for Motorhome travellers, but don’t worry. You can easily follow along with a regular car and book accommodation along the way. I included hotel recommendations for each destination.

When is the best time to do this road trip?

The ideal travel time for this Canadian Rockies road trip is between June and August when the nights are warm(ish) and the campsites are operating. 

Though campsites already re-open in May and stay in operation until September, during shoulder seasons I would recommend that you opt into hotel stays. The nights can still be very cold in May or September!

Any time before May or after September you may run into difficulties with finding a campsite that is open. 

If your main objective is to hike, then aim to go between mid-June and mid-October.

Where does this road trip start and finish and what area s does it visit?

The itinerary starts and finishes in Calgary – the nearest international airport hub, and takes you through Banff National Park, along the Icefields Parkway and all the way up to Jasper National Park.

From Jasper, you will make your way back down through Yoho National Park and finish in the Kananaskis Country Provincial Park near Canmore.

How much time do I need to complete this Canadian Rockies road trip?

The optimal time for this road trip is 14 days, but it can also be easily shortened or prolonged depending on the amount of time you have planned for your holidays. However, I would say you need at least 7 days to get a good taste of what the Canadian Rockies have to offer.

More Canadian Rockies itineraries

Are you travelling from Vancouver? You may find my other custom itineraries useful: 

• Vancouver to Calgary through Canada’s Epic Landscape  or
• The Ultimate 3-week road trip across Western Canada starting and ending in Vancouver

The Canadian Rockies road trip map

Above you can find the map of the whole itinerary. If you click on the top left of the map you will find separate layers marking the route, photography spots, hikes, points of interest and campsites.

How to use the map?

To hide and show different layers just click on the check box next to the layer’s name. You can also click on the icons on the map to see the names of the places I have marked.

I will be talking about them as I break the itinerary down day by day. 

Canadian Rockies Road Trip: The Logistics

What’s the best way to travel around the Rockies?

I’ve spent many months travelling through the Rockies in my minivan, which I converted into a tiny motorhome.

Understandably enough, if you choose Canada as your holiday destination, you won’t have time to do what I’ve done. In this case, if you want to follow this itinerary, you will either have to rent a car or a motorhome.

Rent a Campervan with Motorhome Republic

There is a vast array of campervan rental companies in Calgary and going through them all to find the best option will almost certainly give you a headache. To ease up your planning try the Motorhome Republic .  

It’s an awesome RV search engine that will help you choose a camper van tailored to your needs by scanning the top Motorhome rental companies in the area.

TIP! The rough estimate of this itinerary is 1500km. You will need to know this when booking your campervan as you will have to prepay for your kilometres. 

Rent a Compact Car with Discover Cars

This itinerary is optimised for camper vans but could easily be done in a regular car providing that you bring camping equipment with you or stay in hotels.

If you are looking to rent a compact car try  Discover Cars  – World’s best car rental search engine. 

Park Entries and Fees: National Parks Discovery Pass

This itinerary crosses through a few national parks, including the famous Banff and Jasper. Visiting a Canadian national park requires paying entrance fees.

If you are travelling for more than 7 days then consider investing in a Discovery Pass, which works out to be cheaper than buying daily passes. For example, the family/group pass covering up to 7 people in one vehicle costs CAD$151.25 per year.

Avoid waiting in lines and purchase the pass online, directly on the Parks Canada website , before your trip. You can also buy one at the entry toll gate located just a few kilometres past Canmore  at the entrance to Banff National Park , a place you will be crossing on this road trip.

TIP! Make sure to have your pass on display in the car at all times.

Information about staying at Parks Canada campgrounds

There is an ample variety of campsites all along the spots enlisted in this itinerary. The majority of them have been equipped with toilet and shower facilities as well as plug-in options for those travelling in bigger motorhomes which require re-charging.

The cost of staying at the campsites in 2024

The cost in the Province of Alberta is usually ca. CAD 35 per site per night and each site is permitted to hold up to 6 people and a maximum of two cars.

There’s an option of buying a fire permit for an additional fee. The permit also includes the firewood, so it’s an easy decision in my eyes. What’s a campsite without a fire, right?  

Tip! If there are only two of you and you don’t hold a reservation, consider asking other travellers in the check-in line if they want to share a site and subsequently the cost. This is what I did a few times when the campsites were full.

When to book the campsites in the Canadian Rockies in 2024?

If you travel In the peak summer months (June to August) you will find it very handy to book the sites well in advance, especially in the more popular areas like Banff, Lake Louise or Jasper. After all, tourism has boomed here in recent years.

All bookings can be made on the  Parks Canada Reservation Website and the system usually opens in March.  

Upon arrival at each campsite, you will be briefed about the wildlife awareness and measures you will have to undertake to keep the wildlife safe. 

Stocking up on groceries before starting the road trip

Once you’ve arrived at Calgary International Airport, pick up your car or campervan and head to the closest supermarket.

Although there are supermarkets in all of the road trip destinations, Calgary has the cheapest prices so it’s better if you stock up before you hit the road. Besides, once you get it over with you will have more time to enjoy your holidays!

14-day Canadian Rockies road trip: day-by-day breakdown

When you become acquainted with your new home on wheels for the next couple of weeks, then it’s time to hit the road. The main road from Calgary to the mountains is Trans Canada Highway 1 and it will take you to your first destination – Banff.

Day 1-4: Banff and its surroundings

• Distance from Calgary International Airport : 143 km / 89 mi
• Travel time: 90-120 minutes

Banff is considered by many to be the main hub in the Canadian Rockies. Its dream location coupled with its incredible geological features make it a top hit on our road trip.

Its quaint high street gets pretty busy in the summertime and so do many of the famous photography spots in Banff.

Best things to do in and around Banff

Sulphur mountain.

A series of relatively steep switchbacks for 5.5km (3.4 mi) will take you to the Upper Gondola Terminal on Sulphur Mountain. You’ll ascend 700m (2,300ft) and it’ll take around 1-2 hours one way.

The views of Mount Rundle and Cascade Mountain are well worth the effort. If you are not up for hiking you can take the gondola up and down instead. Whether you choose to hike or ride the gondola, you are up for the best views of Banff from above.

Banff Upper Hot Springs

The Banff Hot Springs, which are conveniently located near the lower gondola terminal are a treat after a long day of exploring.

They are run by Parks Canada and at around $17.50 / person it’s a bargain. If you decide to hike up Sulphur Mountain you can treat yourself to the hot springs afterwards. It will be a perfect end to a long day.

Join a lake cruise 

A cruise along Lake Minnewanka is an awesome way to see the Fairholme Range and the iconic Mount Inglismaldie. They depart every 30 minutes from the boat dock near the car park and prices start at 65 CAD per person.    

Practice your photography skills

Banff is any photographer’s wet dream. Amateurs, hobbyists and professionals flock from all over the world to get the chance to take their own version of photos from locations that have already been photographed to death.

The biggest piece of advice I can give when visiting photography spots in Banff National Park is to make the most of blue hour, golden hour, sunrise and sunset.

Bow Valley Parkway

Make sure to reserve one of the days that you spent in Banff for the Bow Valley Parkway. It’s a beautiful stretch of road which hides many natural gems.

What to see along the Bow Valley Parkway

The Bow Valley Parkway is a mini version of the  Icefields Parkway  but it still packs one hell of a punch. It’s only a 51km (32 miles) stretch of road but you can easily spend a day there.

Johnston Canyon

Since your time is limited I would highly recommend visiting Johnston Canyon. Make sure to get there early.

The morning light coming through the trees and shining upon some waterfalls in the early morning hours is a sight to behold. Providing the weather is good of course! 

One of the best ways to explore the Bow Valley Parkway and Johnston Canyon is on an E-bike and walking tour with an experienced guide.

My favourite time of the year for visiting Johnston Canyon is in the winter when all the waterfalls are frozen giving an impression of being in a fairytale ice castle. During winter time you can join a guided ice walk across the Johnston Canyon.

Morant’s Curve

At first thought, it’s just some train tracks running through a forest, but the famous Morant’s curve has become one of the photography hot spots. If you are patient enough to wait for a train to pass for some long exposures then you are guaranteed a great shot!

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

Accommodation in Banff

Once you arrive in Banff there are a few campsites that you’ll be able to call home for the next few days.

My favourite, due to its location and the beautiful views that go with it, is the Two Jack Lakeside campground . However, if you want to be closer to the town centre you should go to the  Tunnel Mountain Campground . 

If you would like to be in a more remote location another great campsite to consider is the Johnston Canyon campground along the previously-mentioned Bow Valley Parkway which is a 30-minute drive from the township.

Banff International Hostel

What guests loved about it

• Great loft space

Moose Hotel and Suites

• Beautiful decor
• The welcoming smell of the fireplace

For Luxury Fans

Rimrock Resort Hotel

• Unparalleled views
• Excellent attention to detail

Day 4-6: Lake Louise

• Distance from Banff: 57 km / 35 mi
• Driving time: 40 minutes

Although Lake Louise is a popular winter skiing destination it is also famous in the summer for two big reasons: Lake Louise and the one and only Lake Moraine.

Truth be told, there’s not much directly at Lake Louise Village, but it’s an excellent central hub to explore the beautiful surroundings. 

Things to do in Lake Louise

Lake Louise is a few minutes’ drive away from Lake Louise Village. I hope I am not confusing you here. The village and the lake have the same names. The lake’s shoreline is a perfect location for the countless  hikes in the area . 

If you don’t feel comfortable hiking on your own you can book a guided hike around Lake Louise.

Lake Louise lakeshore

The 4km (2.5 miles) 1-hour return flat lakeshore stroll gets you away from the hustle and bustle of the world-famous Chateau Lake Louise, built right on its shoreline, and gives you the perfect view of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. 

The Plain of the Six Glaciers

Further on along this path is the way to the much more impressive Plain of the Six Glaciers, it’s a longer 11km (6.8 miles) uphill 4-hour return but it’ll transport you in some of the most pristine wilderness Canada has to offer.

Surrounded by towering peaks and frozen glaciers, you’ll be blown away. Make sure your camera has enough battery and take some cash because there’s a teahouse on the way there too. 

Discover Banff Tours runs guided hikes on some of the classic trails around Lake Louise including the Plain of the Six Glaciers.

Visit Lake Agnes Teahouse

If you’re feeling a bit more energetic than the Lakeshore but don’t think you can tackle the Plain of the Six Glaciers then the hike up to Lake Agnes is a good middle ground. It’s a 7km (4.4 miles) uphill return that should take around 3 hours.

You’ll not only be treated to the view of Lake Agnes at the top but also the sensational Mirror Lake and several vistas overlooking the Bow Valley on the way.

Again take some cash because there’s another tea house up there – the world-famous Lake Agnes Tea House. 

Get a glimpse of the Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is the most famous Canadian lake and one of the  many famous postcard pictures of the Canadian Rockies . Its turquoise waters glisten in the sun and are incredibly framed beneath the famous Valley of the Ten Peaks.

The Lakeshore stroll is one of my favourites as it offers fantastic views with minimal effort. It’s a 2.4km (1.4 miles) flat return which only takes 40 minutes.

IMPORTANT (NEW IN 2023 ): Due to the high volume of traffic the road to Lake Moraine will stay closed for the entire summer season. Only shuttle and commercial buses will be able to bring visitors to its shoreline. Prebook your shuttle directly with Parks Canada or with a private company which I linked below.

Hike the Larch Tree Valley

Another one of  my favourite hikes in the Canadian Rockies (especially during September) is the Larch Valley Trail. It takes you 400m above the shimmering Moraine Lake through the forest amongst all the Larch trees before opening out amidst the valley of the Ten Peaks.

If you’re there at the right time of the year (early fall) you’ll be amazed at all the different colours, but the surrounding peaks are enough to leave you speechless.

It’s a 10km (6 miles) 4-hour return to the Minnestimma Lakes and a 14km (9 miles) 6-hour return to the Sentinel Pass across the Larch Tree Valley.

Accommodation in Lake Louise

There are two campsites at Lake Louise,  Lake Louise Tent and Lake Louise Trailer . Both have encircling electric fences to deter the abundant wildlife living in the area. 

HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre – Hostel

• Very friendly staff
• Great for meeting other travellers

Paradise Lodge & Bungalows

• Great location, a 15-minute walk from Lake Louise
• Rustic lodge feeling

Chateau Lake Louise

• Superb location right on the lake
• Choice of restaurants

Day 6-8: Icefields Parkway

Lake Louise Village marks the start of the Icefields Parkway (93N). This is the main drag connecting Lake Louise and Jasper and it is where you will be spending your next two days. 

The 232 km stretch of road which travels from Lake Louise in Banff National Park up to Jasper encompasses, what I consider to be, the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Travel past monumental glaciers, icy blue lakes, enormous mountains and stretches of road that simply have to be seen to be believed. There are plenty of stops along the Icefields Parkway hence I believe you should spend at least a couple of days exploring it.

I have driven up and down this road, countless times and still didn’t get to experience everything!

You can learn everything about the incredible Icefields Parkway with this brilliant smartphone audio tour between Lake Louise and Jasper.

Watch as your audio guide points out must-see sights, attractions, breathtaking mountains, and glaciers that you pass along the journey. Learn about the area’s early pioneers, animals, geography, and the historical events that led to the highway’s creation.

Accommodation on the Icefields Parkway

HI Rampart Creek Hostel

• Clean and functional kitchen
• Great value for money and location

Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge

• Friendly and dedicated staff
• A rustic place far from the madding crowd

Day 8-10: Jasper National Park

• Distance from Lake Louise: 232 km / 144 mi
• Driving time: 3 hours (without stopping)

At the end of the Icefields Parkway, you’ll end up in the townsite of Jasper, a well-located little town with plenty of things to see and do.

I would recommend staying a couple of nights here. Jasper is the central hub of many beautiful spots in the Jasper National Park region.

Best things to do in Jasper National Park

Cruise down maligne lake.

Maligne Lake is around a 1-hour drive from Jasper. A boat cruise on the lake has to be one of the best activities in Jasper National Park.

It’ll take you halfway down the lake to Spirit Island (one of many  top photography spots in Jasper NP ) where you’ll disembark and have a chance to take in the view. 

Self-guided paddling trip

If you are feeling more adventurous you can rent a kayak or canoe and  paddle there yourself , just be prepared for a long day (26 km round trip).

If you have an extra day you can consider staying a night at the Fisherman’s campground accessible only by boat or canoe. This will require a bit more organizing ahead though as backcountry camping spots sell out faster than tickets to the Glastonbury Festival.

Hike the Sulphur Skyline 

The Sulphur Skyline is one of  my favourite hikes in Jasper National Park . It departs from the car park at the Miette Hot Springs which is a 61 km drive from Jasper.

Head north on Highway 16 for 44 km then turn right onto Miette Road next to the Pocahontas bungalows.

Follow the Miette Road until the end where you’ll find the trailhead. The hike offers unbelievable 360 panoramic views but is a steep 8km return which should take around 5 hours.

When you get down, a geothermal hot pool soak will be waiting for you.

Soak in the Hot Springs 

Like the Banff Hot Springs, The Miette Hot Springs are also owned and operated by Parks Canada.

They have 2 hot pools and 2 cold pools which contain many minerals good for your skin and body. If you’re brave try the coldest pool.

If you’ve done the Sulphur skyline hike, this will be the perfect way to relax afterwards.  The hot springs are only 100 meters away from the trailhead. 

Take the SkyTram up the Whistler Mountain

As well as Banff, Jasper has its gondola too. It costs CAD62.95$ and offers spectacular panoramic views from the top.

You can hike up there too but it’s a 1000m elevation gain so I haven’t yet attempted it. There’s also a hike you can do at the upper gondola station to Whistlers Mountain or  Indian Ridge . 

Hike along the Maligne Canyon

Maligne Canyon is just 11km outside Jasper along Maligne Lake Road. It’s an undulating 7.4km return which should take around 3 hours.

It’s beautiful at all times of the year but my favourite is when the snow melts at the start of summer and the river is at its most ferocious. It’s a busy spot, but the further you get away from the parking lot the quieter it becomes.

Get a cinnamon bun at the Grizzly Paw bakery

There are two bakeries in Jasper called the Grizzly Paw and they do the most amazing cinnamon rolls. I spent a little fortune on those and made sure to have one after every hike I did in Jasper. I am still trying to crack their recipe but to no avail.

Accommodation in Jasper

The two major campsites here are called  Wapiti  and  Whistler . Both are huge with plenty of sites.

I prefer Whistler but both are pretty similar. Both campgrounds are close to each other and both are only around 5 minutes south of Jasper’s town centre.

Jasper Downtown Hostel

• Well-stocked kitchen for self-cooking
• Great central location

Jasper House Bungalows

• Great location right on the banks of the Athabasca River

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

• Heated pool, hot tub, and spa
• Location and scenery

Day 10-12: Yoho National Park

• Distance from Jasper: 260 km / 162 mi
• Driving time: 3.5 hours (but it will probably take a whole day)

On your return back from Jasper toward Calgary turn right at Lake Louise junction on the Trans Canada Highway 1. This road will take you to the little town of Field. You will now be entering Yoho National Park.

What to do in Yoho National Park

Takakkaw falls.

A good half-day hike and one of the most popular in Yoho National Park. It’s a 12km (7 mi) loop that should take around 4 hours.

It will leave you in awe of its natural beauty. After all, Yoho is the *Cree word for awe. That’s a Yohosome fact, isn’t it?

Emerald Lake

Another beautiful place to photograph in this area is Emerald Lake. Just a short 15-minute drive from the campground this photogenic lake should be on your list of things to do and see as it’s  one of the most photogenic places in the Canadian Rockies.

Visit Lake O’Hara

If you are one of the lucky ones who pre-booked their bus trip to Lake O’Hara, good on you. This remote lake has a very limited visitor allowance per year making it sought after amongst outdoor lovers.

I’ve been here in both the Winter and Summer seasons and have put together a separate  guide to Lake O’Hara . You should check it out! 

*Cree is a 3000-year-old language spoken by the Cree people.    

Accommodation in Yoho National Park

The best-located campsite in Yoho National Park is called Kicking Horse Campground.

Canadian Rockies Inn – Adult’s Only

• Comfortable quiet rooms
• Very welcoming and personal staff

Charlie’s Guesthouse

• Cosy and homely feeling
• Great location in the middle of Yoho Park

Cathedral Mountain Lodge

• Delicious food
• The most beautiful setting

Day 12-14: Canmore and Kananaskis Country

• Distance from Field: 105 km / 65 mi
• Driving time: 70 minutes

Canmore is where I spent  the picturesque winter  when living in Canada so maybe my opinion is a bit biased, but I truly find Canmore and its surroundings more beautiful than any other place on this Canadian Rockies itinerary.   

Best things to do around Canmore

Hike the ha ling peak.

Ha Ling Peak is the most popular summit in the Bow Valley. From the car park down Spray Lakes Road, it takes the majority of people 2-3 hours to get to the summit and just over one hour down.

The short 6km hike is quite steep as it includes an elevation gain of 737m (2417ft) but the views from the top are spectacular. I have done this hike multiple times including one  sunrise quest to the top.   

You can either do this trip on your own or join a certified hiking guide on a half-day trip to the summit.

Rawson Lake and Sarrail Ridge

The Sarrail Ridge is a moderate 11km (7-mile) 5-hour return hike which starts down in Kananaskis Country near the eastern tip of the Upper Kananaskis Lake. The first half, although slightly uphill, is relatively easy.

The second half is a much harder 45-degree almost scramble to the lookout. This route, which is popular on weekends with Calgary locals, is very quiet during the week. It’s one of many  superb hikes in Canmore and Kananaskis Country.  

Look for moose near Mount Engadine 

Engadine Lodge and the Moose Meadows is a 38km drive (1 hour) down the Spray Lakes/Smith Dorien trail from Canmore. It’s a beautiful place to go for a nice cup of tea or a slice of cake in the afternoon.

The meadows that surround it are very picturesque with little streams flowing through them. It’s also, as the name suggests, a very popular spot to see moose. The meadows are one of  the best spots in the Canadian Rockies to spot wildlife.

Practice your photography

Canmore and Kananaskis, just like any other area in the Canadian Rockies, have some incredible photography spots.

They range from mountain peaks to alpine lakes and will fill your soul with inspiration. See how many of my  favourite photography locations in Canmore and Kananaskis  you can fit into your trip!!!

From Canmore, it’s just 120km or 1 hour and 15 minutes to Calgary International Airport. Follow the Trans Canada Highway back east and proceed along with the signs for the airport.

Accommodation in Canmore

The two campgrounds that I would recommend are the Bow River Campground and the Spray Lakes West Campground near the Spray Lake Reservoir with the latter being my preferred choice.

Spray Lakes site is around a 20-minute drive from the town centre on the Smith Dorien highway (or more like a well-maintained gravel road). The views next to the campground are some of the best you will get.

If however, you want to be closer to the town, Bow River Campground should be your choice. Do bear in mind that it’s a bit close to the highway and it may be a bit noisy.

Canmore Downtown Hostel

• Well-designed spaces
• Very clean and well-organized

Tamarack Lodge

• Well-appointed, clean, and modern
• Beautiful and well-stocked units

The Malcolm Hotel

• Fantastic views from the pool
• Very comfortable beds

How to shorten this two-week Canadian Rockies itinerary?

This is a question I get asked quite often. I get it, unfortunately, it can be difficult for some to carve out a full two weeks of holidays to travel up and down the Rockies. Here are a few ideas on how to make this road trip plan shorter.

• Connect the days spent in Canmore with the days spent in Banff. They are only a 20-minute drive apart. That way you can save yourself a couple of days.
• Don’t stay overnight on the Icefields Parkway. Whilst I highly recommend it, if you don’t have a spare day then don’t feel bad about it. You can spend the whole day driving from Lake Louise to Jasper and then another day when driving back. This will already give you almost two full days on the Icefields Parkway.
• Cut out, Yoho National Park. Whilst amazing you just have to face the fact that you just can’t see everything! I spent 15 months in the Rockies and I still feel like I only scratched the surface. It’s better to take it slow than to try and see it all!

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Hi! I am the photographer and creator of www.inafarawayland.com. I come from Poland, but I've been living, travelling and working around the globe since I turned 18. A few years ago, during one of my trips to Scotland, I bought my first DSLR and my adventure with photography began. When I am not stuck to my computer editing photos, you can find me hiking somewhere in the mountains.

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Hi Marta, Thank you do much for so detailed advice for 2-3 week road trip in West Canada, especially who want to use campsite in July, August. My plan is nearly 3 week from Vancouver (we will flight from Vietnam to Vancouver that’s halfway of the earth 🙂 We have 8 member (1 below 12) in a rented van, we dont know how we can gather, use only one campsite for 8 while the rules for up to 6 persons. We can book serviced camp or bring tents, either will best choice? Can we pay extra 1 adult and 1 kid via Parks Canada online? Or should we book 2 campsite and use 1? I read repeatedly your posts to make the plan and book along with your guidance!!AGain thank you that much!!!

Hi Angelina. Thanks for visiting. Since you have 8 people in the van I presume you are travelling with tents (I don’t really understand what you mean by saying we can book serviced camp). Yes there are rules in place when it comes down to how many people can be on one campsite, mainly so the facilities don’t get overloaded. You should book two campsites and you also should be asigned to campsites that are next to each other. This isn’t really a big deal and you still will be all able to hang out together on one of the sites, but sleep in separate tents on two campsites. It’s not like they are fenced off from one another or anything. You will be within each other sight. I hope that helps.

Hi Marta, we want to travel light but still want to experience camping site, and we found out all equipped camping in Two Jack Main are fully booked or unlaunched to be booked, is there any campsite provide equipped camping nearby?Or should we wait till May to book for late July trip?Thank you alot for you advices!

As far as I understand the all equipped camping still requires of you to bring your own sleeping bags which would be a lot of hassle to do if you are travelling from vietnam. I understand that you would like to try camping but ask yourself if it is really worth the effort. As for reservations I am afraid it all comes down to keeping your hand on the pulse in order to not miss the dates when the reservations open.

Wow, I really liked your Rockies road trip guide, I plan to visit them a few times during my one-year stay in Canada, I already passed by from Calgary to Kelowna and spent 2 nights at Canmore/Banff three weeks ago. Although, I will visit them again at the end of the summer to see the beautiful blue colour of the lakes. My family is coming to travel to Canada, they are arriving in Vancouver on April 26th and leaving Vancouver on May 11th, I would love to do the Rockies Mountains with them in RV during this time. I hope the spring weather will be ok, that is not what you are recommending (mid-June to mid-October) but that was the only period they could come.

Hi Louis. Thanks for your great feedback. I am sure your family will love the road trip regardless. Whilst May is not the best time for hiking, there are still plenty of spot to see and visit on a road trip from Vancouver to Vancouver. By the way I have a dedicated Vancouver to Vancouver Itinerary which might be worth for you to look into. I hope you and your family have an amazing time on the road trip. Happy travels!

Hi Marta ! We are a family with 2 teens visiting BC and the rockies for the first time this summer. We really like your blog, it is great ! We intend to rent a VC or motorhome to do the trip you suggested in 2 weeks from Vancouver. Can we park anywhere for the night ? Do we have to book all campsite ? What is the best way to buy the pass to enter the parc ? Do we need to know already all our itinery per day ? Thanks for your precious help.

Hi Elodie. Thanks for visiting. I am glad you decided to follow my trip. As for your question, no parking anywhere is not possible. Whilst you might be able to park free of charge outside of National and Provincial Park boundaries, within those boundaries you have to stay at a campsite. Now another thing, campsites do book out well in advance so do get on it asap. Which answers the last question, pre-booking campsites doesn’t give you much of a room for spontaneous changes in your itinerary. 10 year ago you could have just go and get a campsite on the spot, but those days are long gone. As for the Discovery Pass you can either order it online or buy them at the gates of the park or in visitor centres.

My husband and I plan to take a trip in the northwest US and on up into Canada, Alberta and BC, probably in August or September of next year. Do you have any information on dispersed camping? i’m hoping there is dispersed camping in Canada, to save money along the way. Thanks.

Hi Sue, Thanks for visiting. Camping outside of designated areas in National and Provincial Parks is unfortunately not allowed. Most of the places on this itinerary are indeed within Parks boundries. I am afraid you will have to book campsites. I hope that helps!

Your itinerary is perfect! I did this trip in 2021 with some photographer friends, staying at hotels. We followed all your recommendations here! I loved it so much, that I want to take my husband back in July 2024. We are going to rent a motor home and stay in the campgrounds. My question is this… you don’t have any campgrounds listed for the icefields parkway. Where do you recommend staying for that part of the trip? I see they have rustic campgrounds through out the icefields parkway. Do you have a recommendation?

Hi Kari. You just made my day. Thanks so much for your awesome feedback. I do have a separate post about Icefields Parkway with all campsites enlisted. I really liked the Waterfowl lakes campground because of its proximity to the lakes. Yes the campsites along the Icefields Parkway are quite basic, but your camper should provide you enough electricity for a couple of days if you arrive with a fully charged battery. I hope that helps. I would really appreciate if you used my afiliate links to book your campervan. Let me know if you have more questions!

Hi Marta, thanks for sharing a very informative blog. We are planning a 2 week motorhome trip for May 2024. We’re basically following the route from Calgary that you have described. We’re aware that many campgrounds will be closed at this time of year, but understand that there are a few year-round campgrounds. Do you have any particular recommendations or advice for Motorhoming in the Rockies in May. Many thanks in advance!

Hi Steve. Thanks for visiting. Yes there will be campsites in the Rockies that are open in May. The downside to travelling at this time is that most hikes still won’t be accessible, but with some research you will be able to do some regardless. Especially those facing South Side. Definitely pack warm clothes with you. The nights can still get very cold. Always have some windows cracked open because the condensation is relentless when outside temperatures dropped. You don’t want to wake up inside the campervan to wet blankets and clothes.

Hi Marta, I truly enjoyed reading your travel blogs. We are planning on a week trip in late August to September, if it’s doable and we’d like to start from Calgary. I would like to know which main places I can get into a hotel. Possibly 7-10 days to maximize our trip. Can you please suggest what highlights I should be concentrating on. I know that there are so many nice places to see. Are there chances on seeing wild animals a well? I hope you can suggest things for us so I can get started on making my reservations. Thank you. Hope to hear from you.

Hi Revelyn. Thanks for visiting. I know the information can get overwhelming. If you have 7-10 days I would divide them as follow 2-3 days Kananaskis country, 2-3 days Lake Louise and 2-3 days Jasper. If you need help planning an itinerary I am happy to do that. Here is the link to my travel planning services.

Hi Marta, We have our trip planned for end Aug, start Sept but only have 12 nights RV hire, where would you recommend cutting down the overnight stays. We will only be able to visit once so would love to get the most from our trip. We are more focused in the quiet than the hustle & bustle. Any help would be most appreciated. Many thanks 🙂

Hi Sally. Thanks for visiting. This is the itinerary I would follow then: Day 1-3 Lake Louise, Day 4-5 Icefields Parkway, Day 6-8 Jasper, Day 9-12 Kananaskis Country. Don’t feel bad about not staying in Banff. This is definitely the most touristy area and if you wanted to check it out anyways you can do it from Lake Louise or en route back down from Jasper to Kananaskis. Lake Louise is in Banff National Park and most of its hot spots are there not in actual Banff. As for Kananaskis I recommend staying at either the lower or Upper Kananaskis campsites. It’s a wonderful area! One of my favorites in the Rockies. Do prebook your campsites though! Let me know if I can help any further.

Hi Marta, great read thankyou, myself and my husband are due out for 3 weeks in an Rv sept 23, we plan to do a similar route to yours but over more time, jasper we are planning 6 nights, would you stay in one campsite or maybe two for change of scenery and different location? Also we would like to stop mid way on the ice field parkway but would this be possible in a 29ft rv? Also I’ve read Edith cavell you can’t drive to the parking lot in an rv? Is this the case? If so do you know another way to get there? Finally my husband is also a keen photographer so we are super excited and your photos on your blog are amazing. Many thanks kate

Hi Kate. Thanks for visiting. Sounds like you have an amazing trip planned. As for your question regarding Jasper. The campsites are in mostly forested areas with not many views, so I don’t really see a point in moving from one campsite to another. Yes, Edith Cavel road has restrictions in place. Here is the info directly from the Parks Canada website “Maximum length 25 feet No trailers and large motorhomes are allowed on Cavell Road. Drop-off area located in the parking lot at the start of Cavell Road on 93A.” You could cycle it but unfortunately, I don’t know of any shuttle. You could travel down the Icefield’s Parkway. Plenty of campsite there and I have a whole post about it . There is a huge parking lot near the athabasca glacier with RV parking. Let me know if you have more questions!

Hello Marta! I love your blog and I am dreaming with this trip since 2020 when de Covid “pauses” all plans… We are again planning our trip with all your valuable comments and recommendations 🙂 Thank you so much for sharing. We are not sure wich month we should choose for this trip. We are not thinking in “July and August” because are the busiest times. September is your recommendation and we are wonder if the best days are early or mid September. The great balance for weather , colors 😉 and the best experience. We are going to rent a car and stay at hotels. Manuela

Hi Manuela! thanks for stopping by my site and sorry to hear about your ruined plans! Fingers crossed they will finally come to fruition. As for your question. Let me start by saying, the weather is never a guarantee. Whilst September is still a pretty stable month for travelling in the Rockies and in fact one of my favourite times there, you still should consider that you probably won’t have the perfect weather for the entirety of the trip. If you do, then you can consider yourself very lucky 🙂

As for the best time. Mid-September onwards is when the autumn colours start showing up so if you are after seeing the foliage that’s when you should plan your trip. I would even go as far as the end of September if you want to see the peak of autumn. I am very glad you are choosing to stay in hotels though. Camping in the Rockies during September can be quite extreme with temperatures reaching well below zero Celsius during nights. Let me know If I can help further!

Your blog has helped me so much- our trip starts the 10th sept ( stay in Vancouver for 2 nights then we head over to Calgary).

I have made lots of notes and recommendations re hikes/photo points. Cant wait to do this now 🙂 Heather

Hi Heather! Yey I am so happy to hear that! have an amazing time and let me know how your trip went. If you have any questions, please do let me know!

Hi, first thing, love your blog and your posts, we’re a group of 4 friends and we want to start our trip in Calgary but to end it towards Vancouver, what is the trail that you would recommend on? Thank you so much for your help!

Hi there! Thanks for visiting! I have another itinerary from Vancouver to Calgary which you could reverse and start in Calgary and end in Vancouver. It’s the most extensive itinerary I have built on my site! Do check it out and let me know if you have more questions!

Dear Marta I am so happy I stumbled upon your amazing blog, thank you for these awesome tips, these are super helpful!

I‘ve got a question, we (two from Switzerland who would enjoy to explore the canadian rockies☺️, most probably from Calgary with an RV) would want to visit around Mid September to beginning of October. According to your recommendations about Motor Home Republic, the vehicles are most likely winterized during the winter season (starting usually from October 1, depending on weather conditions), meaning there would be no access to shower toilet or sink. This sucks as we would really want to drive around with an RV and it wouldn’t be worth the cost if we couldn‘t use its amenities. We really aimed to come over after the high season ended (mid September), would you say it would be just better to rent a car and pay for the amenities on the camping site so we‘d have access to the shower rather than booking an expensive RV? Or should we risk it and book the RV and book camping spots that have shower amenities (does that generally cost more compared to a normal parking spot) Sorry for this long text but I am quite unsure on how to plan this😅. Thanks so much in advance for your time and sharing your thoughts ☺️🙏🏻

Hi Kim! Thanks for the visit and your feedback. I am not exactly sure if I understood you correctly. You are afraid that when you book your campervan you won’t have access to its shower and sink? To be honest I don’t see why you wouldn’t. It has to get really cold before the water tanks start freezing and since the water tanks are usually somewhere inside the campervan and campers are often equipped with diesel heating I reckon you would be fine. What I suggest is to write to the companies directly, but plenty of people still rent campers during that time. Just bear in mind that during September and October it does often already get cold overnight. As for campsites, they usually remain open until the end of September and some are even open year-round. The ones that close sooner are the campsites on the Icefields Parkway, but you can also check which ones stay open and which ones stay close. It doesn’t cost more to book campsites when you want to use the shower amenities. As for your second question, I also don’t really understand: “would you say it would be just better to rent a car and pay for the amenities on the camping site so we‘d have access to the shower”. Do you mean you would be bringing a tent then? It it is a yes, then I wouldn’t recommend staying in a tent at this time of the year. Let me know if that helps and if you have more questions.

Fantastic – thanks very much – I’m sure I’ll have more questions to follow!!

No Worries! Ask away any time!

Hi Marta – great blog, we’re heading to Canada this summer and planning to hire an RV for 5-6 days to travel from Calgary to Banff and Jasper (then back to Calgary).

Can I ask a couple of questions – is there an RV Park/Campsite between Banff and Jasper – keen not to drive it all in 1 day.

Also, if you stay in a place for a few days (such as Banff) can you walk everywhere from the campsite or do you need to use the RV to get around town/to locations?

Hi Edward! Thanks so much for stopping by! I will get straight to the answers. Yes, there are plenty of campsites between Banff and Jasper. There is a campground near Johnston Canyon on the Bow Valley Parkway and also one in Lake Louise. Also definitely visit my post about Icefields Parkway, where I have a whole list of accommodation and campground options between Lake Louise in Banff NP and Jasper. https://inafarawayland.com/icefields-parkway-travel-guide/ As for the second question depends on what campsite you stay at. The tunnel mountain campground has a shuttle bus to town, but there is also a big RV parking lot right at the entrance from Banff which is a walkable distance to downtown. If I were you though, try to avoid Banff downtown as much as possible in the summer. It’s just one big commercial zone. Take advantage of what the Rockies have got to offer and plan a route that avoids towns and spends as much time in the beautiful mountains as possible. Let me know if you need any more help! Always happy to help!

Marta, Thank you for your wonderful travel guides! We are planning to rent a very large RV in August 2022 and follow your Calgary to Calgary trip! My question is…will we need to “unhook” the RV each morning to venture out sightseeing and hiking in the surrounding area, then “re hook” back up each evening in the campsite? Sincerely, Kelley

Hi Kelley! Thanks for visiting my site? I would love to help you but what do you mean by “unhook”? Are you renting an RV or did you meant to say trailer that you will pull with car?

This Canadian Rockies 2-week trip guide is fantastic, and I will make use of this guide immediately. I am planning a trip right now, including all the things provided in this guide.

Hi Marta, such an informative blog! And really stunning photos! I came across your website while searching for info on New Zealand some time ago, but actually you inspired us to go to Canadian Rockies now:). We plan to travel around mid-July for about 3 weeks (if the pandemics allows..), trying to squeeze in some day hikes. We plan to travel in a rented saloon car and our own tent + camping gear. The thing is we really don’t want to book everything in advance but rather have flexibility and go day by day (or few days in advance max). Would you say it is feasible? At the end we just need a place to pitch a small 2-people tent (no need for electricity for campervan etc). I understand that all the prime locations in National Parks might be fully booked, but maybe there are many other campsites in the vicinity of the NPs where finding a spot is easier? What would you recommend? Thank you!

Hi Bart. Thanks for stopping by and your awesome feedback! I am glad to hear my website inspired you to go to the Canadian Rockies. As for your question if you were going in the second half os September then I would say you can definitely wing it (apart from some places) but because you are going in July, going without bookings is a bad idea, unless you only plan on visiting off the beaten path places (and even those are often very busy with locals). Campsite bookings are notoriously difficult to get in July and August and that applies both to backcountry and front-county. Campsites are also quite limited. Now given the circumstances we are currently in, this July might turn out (and it probably will) a lot quieter than the previous years because a lot of people will be cautious about travelling overseas, but if it was me I would definitely make bookings (or move your travel to September) or you can stick to the area where campsites operate on a first come first serve basis (Icefields Parkway). Anyways I hope that helps! let me know if you have any more questions!

Hi Marta, many thanks for your reply! I am just reading on Banff NP website that there ~2500 camping sites / 14 campgrounds available in the park, which at first glance seems to be a rather high number to me. If you say these fill up quickly, it means the Park really gets crowded. Let’s see how the situation evolves this year. Thank you again for help, cheers 🙂

Hi Marta. First off, thank you for this unbelievable travel guide throughout Calgary! You have definitely taken some of the stress out of planning this trip by providing some great advice and tips on where to go, where to stay, and what to do. I can’t wait to get to Canada to see some of these breathtaking destinations! I am trying to follow this itinerary as close as possible, but will only have 9-10 days in Calgary. Do you have any recommendations on how to plan this trip in 9-10 days? Maybe cut certain things out of the trip (even though that may be hard). I plan on going in September and will be staying in hotels. I am mostly going to see the breathtaking scenery, do some light hiking, and do small activities throughout the trip. I am open to any ideas you may have so please let me know what you recommend! Thank you!

Hi Patrick. You can connect the days and Stay 3 days in Canmore visiting the areas around Canmore and Banff. Then drive on the Icefields Parkway to Jasper , stay 3 nights in Jasper. From Jasper drive back on the Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise and stay there for 3 days. That way on you last day you will be closer to Calgary. From Lake Louise you can also visit the Yoho NP. As for hikes I have recommendations for each regions so make sure to check out my other articles.

Hi Marta. What a great website, and stunning photos. Thanks for sharing all your info. I will be travelling through Canada independently this August, and wanted to ask your opinion regarding which of the hikes detailed on your website you think are appropriate to complete solo, and which would require navigating in a small group (either with like minded travellers or an organised guide). At this stage I plan to stay in hotel accomodation and hire a small car for transport. Many thanks 🙂

Hi Abby thanks for stopping by. Because of the wildlife on the trails none of the hikes are really recommendable by Parks Canada to do solo, but there are some hikes that are lots busier than others meaning chances of running into wildlife are very slim. For example Edith Cavell meadows in Jasper has quite a few people on it, Parkers ridge on the Icefields Parkway, All day hikes in Lake Louise (particularly the plain of 6 glaciers, Lake Agnes and Larch tree valley). In Kananskis country Ha Ling Peak, EEOR and Rawson Lake always have people on them). Just don’t go super early in the morning when there is still noone on the trail. You can also always team up with others at the car park. I have done that once on the trail to Burstall Pass, as we have run into a couple who has run into a grizzly on that day. We were still at the start of the trail so we decided to turn around and then met a group of 6 at the carpark and asked them if we could join (I was there with my friend on the day). I hope that helps!

Sure does. Thanks for the advice.

No worries!

Hi Marta, will this 2-week itinerary be suitable if the travel period is last week of July and first week of Aug? Will there be swarms of mosquitoes on the hikes mentioned? 😀

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A road trip through the Rockies: A 2-week Itinerary

Updated On 2nd March, 2023

The Canadian Rockies are a thing of dreams.

This mountain range, filled with epic mountains, stunning scenery and endless outdoor activities, is the perfect destination for a road trip adventure. I have spent a lot of time exploring Canada, especially classic west Canada road trip itinerary destinations such as Whistler and Vancouver . However, the Rockies have been on my bucket list for so long, and I was determined to experience them for myself! So, a few months ago, I mapped out this epic winter Canadian Rockies itinerary to explore some of the top skiing mountain resorts and the best of the Rockies. 

This 2-week Canadian Rockies itinerary kicks off in Vancouver and follows a loop venturing as far east as Banff and as far south as Rossland before looping back toward Vancouver. Including everything from hot springs, tubing, skiing, and all of the best eats along the way.

If you are looking for ideas for things to do on your upcoming Canada road trip itinerary,  places to eat, places to drink and the spots not to miss – I have you covered with this 2-week Canadian Rockies itinerary.  

Other blog posts you might be interested in…

• The best things to do in Canada: the ultimate bucket list
• North America: the ultimate travel guide
• A guide to planning a British Columbia road trip
• How to budget for a road trip through the Canadian Rockies
• A 7-day Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary: Banff, Jasper & Yoho National Parks
• The best things to do in Jasper National Park
• 12 reasons you should visit the Kootenay Rockies
• A 1-week road trip itinerary for the Kootenay Rockies
• The best things to do in Banff National Park in summer
• The best things to do on Vancouver Island
• My top things to do in Vancouver in summer

But first, what are the Canadian Rockies?

The Canadian Rockies are a sweeping region of over 180,000 square km stretching through British Columbia and Alberta in western Canada. This region is known for its dazzling peaks and endless adventures. In the summer, you will find panoramic hikes, mountain bike adventures and vivid blue lakes begging to be explored.

In the winter, these peaks transform into a blanket of white and offer some of the best skiing terrain in the world. Not to mention all the cosy winter activities on demand! It really is the perfect destination for a west Canada road trip itinerary.  

How to get to the Canadian Rockies

One of the best ways to begin a west Canada road trip itinerary is by landing at Vancouver’s International Airport YVR. This is a fully serviced international hub that is bound to have a great flight from wherever you are visiting. From here, you can pick up your rental car or campervan and begin!  

Where to stay on your Canadian Rockies road trip?

Depending on your personal style of travel, you can opt to travel in a rental car and stay at hotels/hostels etc., for this Canadian Rockies itinerary. Alternatively, you can choose to travel in a campervan or motorhome. 

If you are travelling in a car for this 2-week Canadian Rockies itinerary, there will be plenty of different accommodation styles to choose from along the way. If you are looking for cheaper stays, be sure to look in the towns outside of the mountain resorts. You will likely find a good deal and be able to drive up to explore the mountain or take advantage of local bus services to and from the mountain. 

If you choose to travel in a campervan for your Canada road trip itinerary, there are also a few options for camping along the way. Travelling in a camper in summer, you will find plenty of campsites in this region. If you are travelling in winter, many RV parks will be closed. However, in their place, many of the local ski resorts offer free or low-cost parking options.  

Do I need to buy any Parks Passes?

To travel to the Rockies region during this 2-week Canadian Rockies itinerary (specifically Banff National Park), you will need a Discovery Parks Pass . These cost around $145 CAD for up to seven people in one vehicle and is valid for 12 months and up to 80 Canadian parks destinations. 

Ski Passes for the winter

If you are planning a West Canada road trip itinerary during winter and want to take advantage of the incredible skiing on offer,  it is worth buying a multi-mountain pass such as an Ikon Pass or a Mountain Collective Pass . These multi-mountain passes give you access to a huge number of resorts, each with several days included per resort. These are absolutely perfect for a west Canada road trip itinerary! Be sure to do your own research, but overall these passes are often worth it, even if you just spend five or more days skiing per season.  

A 2-week itinerary through the Canadian Rockies

This 2-week Canadian Rockies itinerary is set in winter but could just as well be done in the summer! In winter, there is plenty of skiing and boarding to be done, while in the summer, you can swap this out for local hikes and mountain biking at many of these same mountain towns!  

Day 1: Vancouver to Sun Peaks

Drive time: 4 hours and 26 minutes.

After arriving in Vancouver and picking up your rental, it’s time to hit the road toward the first stop on this 2-week Canadian Rockies itinerary: Sun Peaks Mountain Resort. After making your way out past the city’s edges, you will come across one of the most iconic roads on a west Canada road trip itinerary: The Coquihalla Highway. This road climbs to an impressive elevation of 4068 feet (1240 metres) and winds through an impressive mountain range. If you are driving this road in the winter, it’s important to look ahead at the weather. This road is notorious for becoming quite dangerous with ice and snow and large trucks and can close due to avalanches. So be sure to check ahead.

On the way to Sun Peaks, you will pass through Kamloops. This town is a great place to pick up any food/supplies. You can choose to stay the night in Kamloops or drive up the mountain and stay up in the mountain village. If you are travelling in a camper, you are permitted to camp in Sun Peaks for a small fee of $15 per night in parking lot 5. Simply head to the customer service desk, pay the fee, and you have ski-in ski-out accommodation – how does it get better than that?

Day 2: Explore Sun Peaks

Sun Peaks Resort is a stunning little mountain resort with an iconic mountain village. Begin the day by heading into the village and grabbing a coffee from Vertical Cafe . If you’re feeling a little holiday spirit, they also offer a boozy shot for their coffees. 

The mountain itself is best known for deep steeps and powder stashes but also has a huge range of beginner and intermediate-friendly terrain. After exploring the mountain for the morning, grab a poutine from Chez Joe Poutine for lunch. This place does a mean spin on this Canadian classic with everything from Indian, Texan and Maple bacon additions to keep things interesting. 

If you’re looking for a good place to head for dinner after a big day of skiing, be sure to check out Fondue Stube . They offer a 3-course meal including cheese, broth and chocolate-based fondue for $100 CAD for two. Yum!  

Day 3: Ski Revelstoke

Drive time: 3 hours and 8 minutes.

Say goodbye to Sun Peaks and drive the 3 hours to the next Canadian Rockies Itinerary destination: Revelstoke. Revelstoke is a notoriously steep mountain, perfect for immediate riders looking for a challenge and advanced riders looking for a playground to explore. Begin the day by grabbing a coffee from town at the Modern Bakeshop and Cafe or La Baguette if you’re staying up at the base of the mountain. Then grab your skis or board, and start exploring. If you are a beginner or would prefer a rest day, be sure to check out the local Halcyon Hot Springs . These springs are located on Upper Arrow Lake, a short 45-minute drive from Revelstoke – a perfect day adventure for just $30 CAD per person.

After a big day of exploring, head to the Roxy Theatre for a classic small-town movie night and grab an apres drink at Monashee Spirits . Their Monashee Mule is the perfect after-ski refresher. For more ideas on things to do, check out the best things to do in Revelstoke .  

Day 4-5: Ski and Skate at Lake Louise

Drive time: 3 hours.

Today it’s time to continue west on this West Canada road trip itinerary. On the drive, stop in the town of Golden at Legendz Diner for a classic 50’s diner experience. Then, carry on driving towards Lake Louise.

Lake Louise is both the name of a town, but also of one of the most popular (and breathtaking!) lakes in Canada. It is also conveniently (and perhaps a little confusingly) the name of the local ski resort. If you are looking for a day of skiing, make your way to explore the mountain. Otherwise, I recommend grabbing a pair of skates and heading to the lake. Skating on a lake that is 70 Metres deep is a surreal experience – talk about wild ice skating! Access to the lake itself is free, but if you don’t have your own skates, you can rent a pair from the Fairmont for around $23 CAD. Once you have finished exploring, make your way to Banff for the night. 

Note : Banff National Park has very strict rules around camping, and they do not allow this at any of their resorts/in the park. As such, if you are travelling in a camper for the duration of this Canadian Rockies itinerary, you will have to book a campsite or enjoy a night at a hotel in this region.  

Day 6/7: Adventure like the locals at Mt. Norquay

Drive time: 20 minutes.

Kick off day seven of this Canada road trip itinerary with a classic hearty breakfast from Coyotes Southwestern Grill, or try a breakfast-inspired poutine from Tooloulou’s . Then make your way up to Banff Mt. Norquay, just a short 10 minutes from town. This is a super cute, small ski resort best known to the locals. If you want to skip a ski day, why not go tubing instead? Norquay is home to Alberta’s longest tube lanes and a great way to spend a morning. Tickets cost around $40 CAD and include access to the magic carpet to carry you back to the top. Once you’re finished, head back to your accommodation and stay another night in Banff.  

Day 8: Ski Sunshine Village

Drive time: 40 minutes.

Sunshine Village is a short 20-minute drive from the town of Banff. This is one of the most unique resorts in the fact that it has two villages: one at the base and one at the mid-mountain. Parking at the base of the mountain, you will load a gondola that will take you to the ‘village’ at mid mountain. From here, you can access ski lessons, lifts and the majority of the terrain. This is a fantastic hill for beginners and even has a heated chair with a cover for those extra chilly days! Stay one final night in Banff.  

Day 9: Road trip to Panorama and soak in Radium Hot Springs

Drive time: 1 hour and 55 minutes.

Begin the day by grabbing a morning coffee from  Little Wild  in Banff before getting ready for the next leg of this 2-week Canadian Rockies itinerary inland towards Panorama Mountain Resort. This drive is spectacular, offering stunning views of the Rockies as you weave through the valleys. 

On the way, you will pass through  Radium Hot Springs . This idyllic mountain town is nestled in between the Rockies and Purcell Mountains. It is also home to the famed Hot Springs of the same name. These hot springs cost $16.50 CAD per person and offers a ‘cooler’ 32-degree pool as well as a ‘warmer’ 40-degree pool. These are a little more commercialised than hot springs I have been to in the past, but it is still a pretty magical way to take a break from driving. Once you have finished soaking, hop back in the car and continue onto Invermere to stay the night. However, it is important to be aware of the avalanche risks of this pass in winter. Over this 40km stretch of highway, there are 135 known avalanche paths. But don’t worry, it is also home to the world’s largest mobile avalanche program and is monitored very closely. The only problem is the regular (and often lengthy) highway closures after a big snowfall. But I think this just makes it all the more special when you do have the chance to drive through it and experience it for yourself. 

This is also the gateway to other incredible mountain resorts such as Banff, Lake Louise and more. For more ideas of where to go on a larger Rockies road trip, check out our  road trip through the Rockies: a 2-week itinerary guide.  

Day 10: Sit on top of the world at Panorama Resort

Begin the morning with the short 20-minute drive to ski at Panorama Mountain Resort . Regardless of your ability, I would recommend catching the chairlift all the way to the top to the summit. The views on a clear day are breathtaking and completely surreal – offering an almost 360-degree view of the surrounding peaks.

At the top of the summit chair is the Summit Hut . This little mountain hut offers a range of boozy and decadent hot chocolates and coffees that you can enjoy with a view. Intermediate riders can enjoy the cruisy blue cat track down, while the more advanced riders should try and duck over into the Taynton Bowl to explore the backside. This short hike is absolutely worth the views and terrain. Then, head back to Invermere for the night.  

Day 11: Ice Skate in Invermere

Invermere is a quaint little town set on Windermere Lake and a must-do for any west Canada road trip itinerary. In the winter, this 17.7km (11 mile) long lake, transforms into the largest skating loop in the world.  Known as The Lake Windermere Whiteway , this 34 km (21 mile) groomed track runs all around the lake. But don’t worry! You don’t have to skate the whole thing.

This loop is broken into a smaller 5 km loop and a few other larger loops. Even if you are a novice, I would highly recommend grabbing some skates and exploring – it is truly spectacular. Finish off your skating adventure with a coffee or gelato from Stolen Church Coffee co .  

Day 12: Adventure through the eclectic town of Nelson, BC

Drive time: 4 hours.

Today we are nearing the end of this Canadian Rockies itinerary with a big drive south toward Nelson, BC. Here you can spend the day skiing at Whitewater Mountain Resort or simply meandering and exploring this eclectic town. Baker Street is filled with cute cafes, breweries and eclectic thrift stores. 

If you are l​ooking for a unique experience, why not check out the Himalaya Salt Cave for a salt cave and sound therapy session. Then end the day with a drive to Red Mountain Resort for the night. If you are travelling in a camper, you can park here overnight for up to seven days! Otherwise, you can stay close by in Rossland.  

Day 13: Explore Red Mountain, BC

If you are planning your Canada road trip itinerary between January and March, be sure to get an early start to the day with a yoga class. Every Thursday a by-donation class is held at Keen Cafe to help skiers and boarders warm up before the first chair! Once you are feeling limber, it’s time to head up to explore the mountain.

If you are a competent rider and want a thrill, ride the Motherload Chair. This chair gives access to the third steepest terrain in Canada (after Whistler Blackcomb) and has a thrilling chair ride up! Stay another night at Red Mountain Resort or in the nearby town of Rossland.  

Day 14: Drive to Vancouver and have one final explore

Drive time:7 hours.

Today marks the end of this 2-week Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary. If you have a few more days, you can take your time getting back to Vancouver and even spend a few days exploring this beautiful city! For more ideas, check out our guide to the best things to do in Vancouver . 

So there you have it! A 2-week Canadian Rockies itinerary! Are there any top things to do in the Rockies that we have missed? Anything else you would love to see added to this Rockies travel guide? As always, happy adventuring.  

What are your favourite things to do in British Columbia?

I am a writer, podcaster and traveller fascinated with what it takes to thrive in a more alternative lifestyle. After years of trying to fit the mould, I ditched the 9-5, moved to Canada to work as a ski instructor, and have been living a little differently travelling the world ever since. I now live in my van with my partner and our pup, exploring Australia all while discovering what it takes to thrive in this unconventional nomadic lifestyle.

See all Claire’s adventures here.

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The Ultimate Canadian Rockies Road Trip Guide

Canada blew our minds in so many ways.

With the beautiful landscapes, to the abundance of wildlife and some of the clearest bluest water we have ever seen, we just couldn’t get enough of it. From the minute we started driving through the Canadian Rockies, we were already planning our return.

Road tripping through the Rockies is without a doubt the best way to explore this beautiful region. Giving yourself the option to stop, get out of the car and explore at your own pace, road trips let you see the world at a slower pace and gives you the chance to change your itinerary in any way you would like.

The drive through the Rockies, from Banff to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic and enjoyable drives in the world. There’s always something beautiful to look at out the window and an endless number of places to stop along the way.

Whether you’re currently planning your Rockies adventure, or still trying to decide whether a road trip is the right choice for your trip, we’ve got the answers! Here’s everything you need to know to plan your own trip to the Rockies.

Stretching 900 miles northwest from the border of Montana in USA, the Canadian Rockies run along the border or Alberta and British Columbia in Canada.

In this post:

Best time to visit the Canadian Rockies

The high season in the Rockies is during the summer months from around June to September. Generally the weather is a bit warmer during these months, although we did have one snow day when we were visiting in June!

During the summer months you’re able to do the most exploring, with more roads open to drive down and most of the hiking trails around the parks open during this time. The Rockies are also a lot more popular during this time, so expect sights to be a little more crowded (although they are still generally so quiet and peaceful) and a few more cars on the road.

If you’re coming to Canada for the snow season, than during the winter months from about October to March is when you want to visit. Most of the Rockies are snowy during this time and there are so many mountains to try skiing and snowboarding.

Where to start your Rockies road trip

Calgary  is a great place to start your Rockies road trip, especially if you’re flying in. The main airport, Calgary International Airport (YYC), is only an hour and a half drive from Banff, which is likely to be your first stop in the Rockies. Unless you’ve taken our advice to stay in Canmore, which is only an hour and 10 minute drive from Calgary.

If you’ve got some time to spare, spend a night or at least an afternoon checking out Calgary, as this little city has so much to offer on it’s own. There are actually so many amazing places to eat in Calgary – cute cafes, trendy restaurants and mouthwatering menus, we were actually disappointed we didn’t have more time to spend there!

If you like the idea of a one way trip, you could extend your road trip a little bit longer and drive to another destination before returning your car. Vancouver, Edmonton and Kelowna are all great destinations to finish up your trip after exploring everything the Rockies has to offer.

Find the best flight deals to Calgary for your adventure

Where to stay in the Canadian Rockies

If you’re visiting during the high season, Canada can book out months and months in advance. There is limited accommodation options in the main towns and they are normally booked out well in advance.

I’m normally a pretty good planner. I like to have my itinerary locked in months before we depart for a trip, just to be safe. And on this trip I knew our accommodation situation would be even trickier as we were travelling in a group of 6.

But I was shocked to see that when I started looking for accommodation options around 5 to 6 months before we were due to arrive, there were so few options available, it was basically nothing. And that wasn’t even just looking for places that fit 6 people, I couldn’t even find 3 basic hotel rooms at the same place.

Start looking for accommodation options as early as you can, as most places book out 6 months to a year in advance.

The most surprising part of our accommodation search, was that all of my normal go-to websites for hotel bookings were coming up with virtually nothing. Many of the hotels, inns and accommodation options don’t even having listings on general hotel websites, and just take bookings directly through the hotel reception.

We were able to find some options through the tourism pages for each location, so the below websites are a great place to start if you’re struggling to find any options:

• Banff and Lake Louise – banfflakelouise.com/accommodation
• Jasper – jasper.travel

We organised our trip by staying for a few nights in Banff National Park and then spending a few nights in Jasper National Park. This worked out really well as it gave us a home base in each park, so we didn’t have to pack up all our things and move to a new spot every day.

If you’re struggling to find affordable accommodation in the town of Banff, we highly recommend checking out the options in  Canmore . It’s only about 20 minutes from the town of Banff, but there are heaps more options that don’t book out so quickly, and the prices are much more reasonable.

During our stay we checked into Basecamp Resorts in Canmore and it might just have been our favourite stay of the whole trip. Our three bedroom apartment was practically brand new, with a great size kitchen and lounge area so we could all hang out together, and even included our own washing machine and dryer. There was even a roof top hot tub overlooking the mountains to relax in after a long day of exploring.

Find the best deals by booking your Banff hotel in advance HERE

Purchase your Parks Pass on the freeway

To visit both Banff National Park and Jasper National Park you will need a Parks Pass, a small fee that you pay on your first entry that helps contribute to the upkeep of the parks. There are ticket booths along the highway where you can purchase your pass on the day of your visit, so you don’t have to worry about organising one in advance.

If you’re driving through the Rockies you might need to pay some of the following fees. For entry to  Banff National Park or Jasper National Park there is a daily fee of $9.80 CAD per person or $19.60 CAD for a family or group.

For longer visits, you can also choose to purchase a  Discovery Pass   which gives you unlimited admission for 12 months to over 80 National Parks in Canada. This is the way to go if you’re spending an extended period of time exploring Canada! The Discovery Pass costs $136.40 CAD for a family or group (of up to 7 people in one car) for a whole year, or a single adult ticket is $67.70 CAD.

There can be extra fees associated with camping in the parks as well, so if you’re planning any kind of camping trip make sure you check out the Parks Canada website for more information.

Highlights through the Canadian Rockies

The Rockies cover a huge amount of land, across multiple states in Western Canada, covering mountains, rivers, lakes and even gorges. There are heaps of off the beaten track trails, hidden hot spots and beautiful views to explore, but most visitors that come to the Rockies are looking to hit up the main hot spots.

Some of the most popular places to visit around the Rockies include –

Banff National Park

Home to some of the most exquisite lakes you’ll come across anywhere in the world, Banff National Park is often what people are thinking of when they say they want to visit Canada. It’s those bright blue lakes, surrounded by mountains with snowy peaks and stunning views, that leave you speechless even if you see them in a magazine.

The town of Banff itself is super cute, with it’s store fronts that look like little log cabins with speciality stores that sell everything from souvenirs to popcorn to Christmas decorations. If you are looking for accommodation that’s actually in Banff, this is where you’ll be staying.

Lake Louise

One of the most iconic spots around Banff National park is Lake Louise. This is where you’ll find the infamous Fairmont Chateau , sitting right along the turquoise water of the lake, with the beautiful mountain ranges standing tall all around.

If you’re looking for one of the most amazing places to stay in the area, check into the Chateau for a night! Of course, with such stunning location can come a pretty hefty price tag though.

In the cooler months Lake Louise is a favourite spot for skiiers and snowboarders, with some of the most picturesque slopes in the world. You can try out all kinds of winter sports at the lodges around Lake Louise, and in the summer months it’s a great place to spot bears and wildlife coming out from hibernation.

Moraine Lake

Just down the road from Lake Louise and a little lesser known, Moraine Lake is another spot you don’t want to miss on your road trip. The smaller lake is overshadowed by the mountains of the Rockies, and the views here are just unreal.

Take a walk away from the crowds and around the lake for views that just keep getting better. Some of the best views of Moraine Lake is when you get away from the car park and a little further around the lake. Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to miss the tour buses and most of the traffic.

Icefields Parkway

The 140 mile highway between Banff and Jasper is known as Icefields Parkway and is quite simply one of the most scenic roads we have driven on to date. Winding through mountains, along blue lakes, past thousands and thousands of beautiful Christmas looking trees, the scenery is continuously changing as you drive further down the road.

The highway has unobstructed mountain views along both sides of the road the whole way along, meaning you don’t even have to veer off the main highway for those beautiful views. There are heaps of different rest stops and places to stop along the way to take the time to get out and really appreciate where you are.

Even though the drive from Banff to Jasper is only 4 hours, set a whole day aside to make the trip. That way you can pull into every rest stop, check out the view from every lookout, and stop for a while every time you see a bear!

Icefields Parkway is also a great place for spotting wildlife, with all kinds of animals often wandering around the park land surrounding the road including black bears, grizzly bears, moose and deer. Along this road is actually where we spotted our very first bear! He was literally just wandering along the side of the road, unphased by the passing cars or people stopping to take his photo.

Jasper National Park

In the northern part of the Rockies, Jasper National Park is a great place for spotting bears and wildlife, as well as exploring more of the Canadian country side. Some of the drives around Jasper are highlights for wildlife spotting in the Rockies, and are actually pretty quiet to explore, with few other cars sharing the road with you.

In the winter time Jasper is another great spot for winter activities, while in the summer time there are lots of trails open for hiking and mountain bike riding.

How long should you plan the trip for?

No matter how long you have to explore the Canadian Rockies, there are some great itineraries out there that range from just a few days to a week and even longer.

At a minimum, to make sure you don’t miss out on anything and you don’t have to rush, dedicate at least 4 days to your road trip. This is really such a beautiful part of the world, and you don’t want to rush through it because you haven’t given yourself enough time to explore. Ideally, if you have the time, at least a full week should be dedicated to really get the most out of the region.

To give yourself an idea of how much time you might need write out a list of all the places you want to visit around the Rockies and then figure out how long it will take to travel between them. That way you can at least figure out how long you’ll spend driving on your trip, and then you can decide how long you’d like to spend in each place.

If you’re visiting during the winter months, allow yourself some extra time to deal with any potential road closures or difficult weather conditions that might have an impact on your trip.

Renting a car in Canada

In order to explore the Rockies on the road you’ll need to rent a car for your road trip. You can pick up a rental car from Calgary Airport when you fly in, so you can hit the road straight away.

Before you start looking into rental cars it’s a good idea to plan your route – are you going to do a loop, picking up and returning your car in Calgary? Or are you going to keep going with your road trip and maybe drop off your car in another location?

The other thing to consider is what type of car you want to rent. If you’re going to be heading off on a long road trip maybe you want a bigger car that’s a little bit more comfortable. Or if you’re going to be driving up mountains and inclines you might need something with a little more power.

For this kind of longer road trip, sometimes just booking the cheapest rental isn’t always the best option, so it’s a good idea to do some research. We decided to upgrade to an F-truck for our trip, mainly because these kind of huge pick up trucks aren’t so readily available in Australia and Thom really loves them. It was definitely a much nicer ride through, so much more comfortable than the regular sized car we had originally booked. My Mum could even stand up in the back seat!

You can rent a car in Canada from around $500 AUD for a whole week for a small size car, with different rental companies offering different deals and prices. It’s always a good idea to shop around on Rental Cars   to find the best deals available on your travel dates.

If you’re looking at dropping the car off in another location you might be up for some pretty steep one way fees. We picked up our car in Calgary and dropped it off in Vancouver, so we were looking at one way fees on our booking! Make sure you shop around for your extra fees too, not just the day rate, because they differed quite a bit between companies. We rented our car through Alamo because they had the cheapest one way rate we could find at $150 CAD, however the majority of other car rental companies had one way fees of $300 – $400 CAD.

Generally anyone over the age of 21 can rent a car in Canada, as long as you are carrying a drivers licence and a credit card in your name. Some SUVs and luxury cars are only rented to drivers over the age of 25, so that’s a good idea to double check before you arrive.

Always make sure that your travel insurance policy covers car rental excess for your trip as well. This way you can avoid being charged with extra insurances at the rental desk and you’re covered in a worse case situation.

We were nervous about the price of fuel on our trip, but we were pleasantly surprised. Fuel was about $1.30 CAD per litre and our F150 only needed to be filled up once on our whole trip. Avoid pre-purchasing a full tank of fuel at the car rental counter – they are way more expensive and you are so unlikely to actually return the car fully empty!

What to pack for your Rockies trip

Even if you’re visiting during the summer months it’s a good idea to pack for every situation in the Rockies. During our trip we had a day that was snowing and 0°C where we needed to rug up in jackets and beanies, and then we had another day that was about 27°C and we were back in our summer clothes!

Just to be safe, pack a few different options for both warmer and cold weather. Make sure to take at least one heavy jacket and a closed pair of shoes for colder days. Beanies literally kept us so warm during our visit, so it’s a good idea to pack one of those as well!

If you’re planning to do a lot of hiking around the parks also make sure you pack a proper pair of runners – many of the trails can be a bit loose, so the more supportive your shoes, the better!

What to do if you see a bear on your road trip

One important thing to remember is that  you’re in bear country now . The Rockies are home to all kinds of wildlife, but the most important thing to remember is that it’s home to hundreds of black bears and grizzly bears!

From what we heard from the locals, the bears are generally pretty used to being around people and cars, so they often wander around the outskirts of the towns and can be found walking along the side of the road.

If you do see a bear, make sure you stay in your car at all times. Do not get out or try to get closer to them. They might seem super chill and cuddly, but they can also be aggressive and unpredictable if they feel like they’re being threatened. Keep a safe distance between your car and the bear – you never know which way they’re going to go and you don’t want to hurt them by getting too close.

Carry bear spray on you at all times if you’re hiking just in case. You don’t want to have to use it unless it’s a critical situation, but it’s always better to be prepared.

No matter how long you have to spend in the Rockies, it’s sure to be a highlight of your trip! This place is absolutely incredible and in real life it quite simply takes your breath away. Get out of the big cities, disconnect from your devices and take in the amazing wild nature Canada has to offer.

Explore more of our adventures around Canada

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Emma is a travel writer, photographer and blogger, chasing the sun around Australia. Travelling in her recently renovated vintage Viscount caravan, along with her husband Thom and daughter Macey, she's sharing the very best experiences from around her beloved sunburnt country.

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Canadian Rockies Road Trip—An Epic 1-Week Itinerary

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This Canadian Rockies itinerary is authored by Maya.

Snow-capped mountain peaks, gorgeous turquoise lakes, valleys filled with glaciers as far as you can see, and an occasional bear or mountain goat sighting.

Does that sound enticing enough?

I’m stoked you’re on board! This guide will show you all the fantastic places you can see during a Canadian Rockies road trip in just one week.

Included are highlights and insider tips from Banff, Jasper, and Yoho National Parks. Of course, you can spend more time in each of these parks, but why not make the most of your trip if you come for a week.

You’ll have your mind blown with the Canadian Rockies’ scenery.

To enjoy the stunning colour of the lakes, I recommend visiting from July to September, September being the less busy time.

Let’s jump right in!

Table of Contents

Canadian Rockies Road Trip Itinerary

Things to do:, what's it like living and working in canada, 15+ best vancouver day trips and adventures (canada).

How to Get Around!?

It’s nearly impossible to get around the USA and check out the best adventures without a car! Here are our top recommendations…

Rent a car! I usually find great deals on cars and SUVs here:

Rent a home on wheels! For the more adventurous, rent a van or RV and forgo the hotel room.

Canadian Rockies Itinerary Day 1: Calgary to Banff National Park

Calgary is the closest international airport to the most beautiful national parks in the Rockies. While there are many things you can do in the city, let’s not waste precious time. The mountains are waiting.

Once you pick up your car or a campervan, the drive to Banff takes about 1.5 hours on a toll-free highway. You can purchase the Park Pass for national parks at the gate or online in advance . In Banff, either stay in one of the lodges in town or a campground.

Camping is a very popular option in the Rockies and Banff, mainly due to the extremely high prices of the lodges. Camping in Banff involves waking up to the sound of the birds, and trees, and fresh mountain air.

Campervans are the best budget-friendly option, but if you don’t want to sleep in a car or a tent, glamping in oTentiks is also an option. oTentiks are pre-built wooden tents with beds, electricity, heating, and showers. Book a campground here .

The best first thing you can do in Banff is stroll the main Banff Avenue. It’s filled with souvenir shops, hotels, restaurants, and most importantly, it offers gorgeous views of Cascade Mountain and Mount Rundle.

Start at Banff Avenue and continue along the Bow River through the pedestrian bridge. Walking the path downstream leads to a viewpoint of Bow Falls, a beautiful local spot and my favorite picnic place.

Canadian Rockies Itinerary Day 2: Banff National Park

Explore Banff and let those legs move after sitting on the plane. One of the most popular attractions in Banff is the gondola up the Sulphur Mountain. The panoramic view from the top of the mountain is breathtaking.

Just imagine mountains all around you, views of valleys, mountain peaks, the town of Banff, and even Lake Minnewanka in the distance.

You can either choose to take the gondola up or hike up the Sulphur Mountain yourself. It’s one of the best hikes in Banff, but if it’s not your thing, the gondola takes 8 minutes and costs about $60/adult.

Of course, the hike is free, and I’ve seen people of all ages hiking up the switchbacks to the mountain top. It’s a 5.5 km long hike (one-way) and takes around 2 hours with breaks on average.

Important tip: always check trail conditions before hiking if the trail is open and carry bear spray anywhere in the Canadian Rockies. Parks Canada recommends having it within an arm’s reach (you can buy it in any outdoor store in Banff) and learning how to behave around wildlife in advance.

Enjoy the viewing platform, interactive indoor center at the upper terminal, or lunch in the restaurant. Walk the 1 km long boardwalk to Sanson’s Peak, an old weather station for more gorgeous views.

The afternoon is a great time to enjoy a lake cruise. Lake Minnewanka is a 21 km-long glacial lake and the second longest lake in the Rockies. Within a 20-minute drive from Banff, you can cruise, kayak, hike, or bike along the lake.

The cruise takes you across the lake, where the guide talks about the history and different wildlife living in the area. Another option is to rent a kayak onshore and explore on your own.

There are several picnic tables where you can relax afterward. A short hike through the forest leads to Stewart Canyon, an excellent viewpoint of Lake Minnewanka.

To end the day, visit Vermilion Lakes that are walking distance from Banff. It’s a favorite spot for photographers, bird watchers, and picnic lovers.

Canadian Rockies Itinerary Day 3: Moraine Lake & Lake Louise

A Canadian Rockies itinerary won’t be complete without seeing the most iconic lakes in the Canadian Rockies – Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. And luckily for all of us, they’re located next to each other.

About a 45-minute drive from Banff, you’ll find Moraine Lake in the Valley of Ten Peaks. When you arrive at the shore, you’ll be stunned! An absolutely gorgeous turquoise lake with snow-capped mountain peaks in the backdrop.

As pretty as Moraine Lake gets right from the shore where Moraine Lake Lodge is located, there are several viewpoints and options for making the most of your visit. First, follow the sign and walk up the Rockpile to see the lake from above; this is the best viewpoint.

To get away from the crowds, walk the trail just past the lodge. There’s a canoe rental on-site or you can bring your own (or rented) kayak or stand up paddleboard to paddle around the lake. It takes you to the end of the lake with several benches along the way to rest and enjoy.

Due to the extreme popularity of Moraine Lake, getting to the lake can be difficult. You need to arrive before sunrise to have a spot on the parking lot; otherwise, Parks Canada closes the road. A hassle-free option would be booking a shuttle. You can read our Moraine Lake guide for more info.

Lake Louise is a short drive away in the next valley. It features a huge parking lot, and generally, it’s easier to get to than Moraine Lake.

The bright turquoise color of Lake Louise with surrounding mountains and Victoria Glacier in the backdrop makes for a breathtaking moment. Canoe rentals are located onshore, and several hikes in the area give you a different viewpoint of Lake Louise from above.

My favorite hike is Mount Saint Piran which is 13 km long and lesser-known, so no crowds on the trail. You see Lake Louise from a bird’s eye view, the Bow Valley, and even peaks and lakes on the other side of the mountain along the Icefields Parkway (which you will drive on Day 5 of your Canadian Rockies road trip).

Canadian Rockies Itinerary Day 4: Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park might be small, but it’s an essential part of any Canadian Rockies itinerary.

It takes only 30 minutes to drive from Lake Louise to Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park. At 373 meters high, they’re the second-highest waterfall in Canada, and you can get right under them.

A short paved trail leads from the parking lot right under the magnificent Takakkaw Falls. Takakkaw means “magnificent” in Cree language and you’ll understand why they were named like this as soon as you arrive. They also provide an excellent way to cool off in summer.

There are plenty of picnic tables and also the famous red chairs. Red chairs are scattered around the most iconic viewpoints in the Canadian Rockies. Taking a photo in the chair is almost a must on your Canadian road trip.

After the Takakkaw Falls, visit the Natural Bridge with a bustling waterfall under your feet. The same road also takes you to Emerald Lake. Emerald Lake has a different shade of green depending on how the sun’s rays reflect on the water.

Canoe rentals are provided onshore, and they’re the most budget-friendly in the Rockies, with an hour rental under $100. You can walk around the lake, spot wildlife, or relax at the patio with a view of Emerald Lake and surrounding glaciers.

Canadian Rockies Itinerary Day 5: Icefields Parkway to Jasper

The Icefields Parkway is often called “one of the most beautiful drives in the world” by many publications, including National Geographic.

It takes you from Lake Louise in Banff National Park to Jasper in Jasper National Park, and it’s hard to predict how long 230 km would take you. You can rush and get to Jasper in two hours or take your time and drive for two days.

Icefields Parkway is famous for its rugged beauty, glacial lakes, waterfalls, wildlife, and endless glacier views. The road offers a lot of stops for hiking, camping, and viewpoints. If you want to take your time with this leg of the trip, an RV is a great option. You can book your van at Outdoorsy .

My recommendations are Bow Lake, (newly opened) Peyto Lake, Waterfowl Lakes, Mistaya Canyon, Columbia Icefield, Sunwapta Falls, Athabasca Falls, and Horseshoe Lake.

The longest stop is at Columbia Icefield. You can book an Ice Explorer bus which would take you directly to the glacier. It’s an amazing experience if you’ve never walked on a glacier. If you bring your water bottle (with filter), you can also drink the glacier water.

You’ll want to stop often, enjoy the views and take pictures, so spending a full day on Icefields Parkway is a must. And you’ll also drive the road back from Jasper to Calgary on Day 7, where I’m suggesting hikes with the most stunning views.

Canadian Rockies Itinerary Day 6: Jasper

Once you reach the Columbia Icefield on the Icefields Parkway, you are already in Jasper National Park. Take in the beauty along the road until you reach the small mountain town of Jasper.

A little-known neighbor of Banff is Jasper, located in the Athabasca River Valley. The activities and hikes are more spread out, so you don’t feel like meeting crowds, which is rarely the case in Banff.

Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Rockies and offers countless options for outdoor fun. My personal favorite is stand-up paddleboarding on Edith Lake (with SUP rental on-site) and biking the trails along the Athabasca River to see wildlife.

If there are only two things that I would recommend to you, it’s visiting Maligne Lake and hiking in the Valley of the Five Lakes.

When driving to Maligne Lake, stop at Maligne Canyon for a short stroll and at Medicine Lake, where bears like to hang out.

Maligne Lake is a long azure lake surrounded by mountains and glaciers. You can take a cruise across the lake to see the famous Spirit Island, a popular spot for photographers, rent a kayak to paddle on your own, or hike up the Bald Hills to see the lake from above. Several short hikes are starting at Maligne Lake that take you to small mountain lakes.

You can access the Valley of the Five Lakes from the Icefields Parkway when driving or leaving Jasper. It’s the most stunning hike in Jasper featuring emerald lakes in different shades, viewpoints with red chairs, and often wildlife. The 5.5 km loop around the lakes is family-friendly and accessible for all fitness levels.

Canadian Rockies Itinerary Day 7: Jasper to Calgary

On the last day, when you drive through the Icefields Parkway back to Calgary, you’ll surely realize how much there is to see and experience in the Canadian Rockies and would want to come back.

Enjoy the viewpoints on the way back, and I highly suggest stopping at either Wilcox Pass or Parker Ridge for a hike. At Wilcox Pass, it only takes a few kilometers of hiking to reach the viewpoint with red chairs to see Athabasca Glacier across the valley.

Parker Ridge is a steep 5 km hike but with a huge reward at the end, where you see the massive Saskatchewan Glacier with a turquoise pool underneath.

I hope you find these tips helpful to have an epic Canadian Rockies road trip and enjoy it to the fullest!

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Maya is an adventure athlete and world traveler. After her trip around the world, she returned to the Canadian Rockies. Apart from adventure sports, she loves traveling to places beyond the beaten path which are not often visited. She shares her travel stories and comprehensive adventure travel guides on her blog Travel with the Smile .

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The Ultimate Canadian Rockies 2 Week Road Trip Itinerary

This post is also available in: Nederlands

Are you on the hunt for the best Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary that will take you along the most spectacular places in both British Columbia and Alberta? When planning your own trip feel free to modify our Canadian Rockies itinerary based on the amount of time that you have!

Or maybe you don’t want to spend too much time driving? That’s totally fine as well! Most of our itinerary covers places in the state of Alberta but we chose to fly to and from Vancouver because we absolutely wanted to see killer whales.

I recommend visiting the Canadian Rockies for at least a week, but 2 weeks is way more ideal for a Canadian holiday . And know that no matter how long you choose to spend in this wonderful part of the world you’ll have an absolutely fantastic time!

I did a ton of research while I was planning our very own road trip but one day before we left I discovered that almost all of the hiking trails that I had planned on doing were still completely covered in snow and way too dangerous.

So I pretty much had to wing it but in the end we were able to create an incredibly diverse itinerary that will take you through amazing nature and wildlife sightings like you’ve never experienced before .

Here is our Canadian Rockies road trip guide!

Planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies can feel a little overwhelming sometimes. Especially if it’s your very first time visiting the country the logistics of it all can seem a little daunting.

From figuring out which National Parks to visit to how to get around and where to stay. I will share all of the details of our Canadian Rockies road trip so that if you want you can simply copy paste our itinerary .

Quick facts about our Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary

Starting point – Vancouver. Fly into Vancouver International Airport

End Point – Vancouver. Fly from Vancouver International Airport

Both or one of these can be replaced by Calgary, depending if you want to make it a one way trip.

Mode of transportation – We rented a camper van from Outdoorsy . They are like the AirBnb for campers and RV’s in both Canada and the USA . If you would like your pick up location to be different from your drop off location, this is usually possible at an extra fee.

📖 READ MY ULTIMATE GUIDE ON CAMPING AND CAMPGROUNDS IN THE CANADIAN ROCKIES

Best time to plan this trip – Halfway June to end of September

States covered in Canada – British Columbia and Alberta

Parks covered in Canada – Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, Jasper National Park, Banff National Park , Kananaskis Country and Yoho National Park

Duration of itinerary – 2 weeks

Parks Canada Discovery Pass – This allows you entrance to all Parks Canada destinations for the year and is  only $145.25 for a family  ($72.25 per person).

Best time of the year for a Canadian Rockies road trip

When planning your Canadian Rockies road trip, the time of year that you visit is one of the most important factors to take into consideration. The best time of the year to travel to the Canadian Rockies is summer and early fall.

Winter is not a good idea because a lot of the roads will be closed off due to harsh weather conditions.

Spring can also be very cold and all of the places that are a little higher elevation will still be snowed in or the lakes will still be frozen. This road trip will take you straight through the mountains and that’s not a good idea if all the roads are covered in snow.

The best time to plan a Canadian Rockies road trip is late summer and early fall . By then all of the snow will have melted, the weather will be warm and you’ll be able to enjoy all the activities. Do know that this is also high season and that campings can book up pretty fast during this season.

If you go too late then chances are high that roads will close again because well it can already start snowing in Canada as soon as October.

When to start planning your Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary

How much from before you need to start planning your Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary depends entirely on when exactly you’re planning to go.

If you’re visiting in July and August you’ll have to book your accommodation from before . This won’t give you a ton of flexibility but these two months are peak season for the Canadian Rockies.

When traveling with a camper van make sure to book it in time. Rent an RV or camper through Outdoorsy and you won’t have to worry much about accommodations.

In the peak summer months you will find it very handy to book camp sites in advance , especially in the more popular areas like Banff, Lake Louise or Jasper. All bookings can be made on the  Parks Canada Reservation Website.

If camping is not your thing you can find the best accommodations through Booking.com . I’m a big fan of their loyalty program that offers up to 20% booking discount once you reach Genius Level 3. I recommend looking at hotels and B&B’s at least 5 months from before .

When it comes to renting a car I always choose SunnyCars . You can cancel free of charge up to 1 hour before departure and all insurance is included in the price upfront. You don’t need a 4×4 vehicle when exploring the Canadian Rockies.

We planned our trip during the last 2 weeks of June and I arranged our camper van at the start of January. For our camp sites we were able to simply drive up during the day and grab a spot.

Best Canadian Rockies Road Trip Itinerary

Below I’m sharing a  suggested itinerary  for your Canadian Rockies road trip, based on our own adventure.

Now let’s talk through the day to day itinerary

DAY 1 – VANCOUVER

Fly into Vancouver International Airport and pick up your rental car or camper/RV. From here it’s time to start driving towards Yoho National Park which is about 9 hours driving. After a long flight it’s totally fine if you don’t get a ton of driving done yet today. Just do some basic grocery shopping and drive as far as you can.

You’ll drive along the Trans Canadian Highway 1 towards Kamloops. If you’re traveling with a camper or RV you can find a camp site nearby using the phone app WikiCamps Canada . For our first night we stayed close to Spences Bridge, British Columbia . We found a free camp site, cooked our very first meal and crawled underneath our blankets.

After a 36 hour travel day it didn’t take long before both of us were sound asleep.

DAY 2 – YOHO NATIONAL PARK

Wake up early, grab some breakfast and keep on driving towards Yoho National Park , which sits at the end of British Columbia. On the way you’ll see the scenery changing and once you reach Emerald Lake you’ll be in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. No matter where you look you’ll be surrounded by incredible mountain ranges.

Emerald Lake is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll and can be found after driving up a side road of the TCH near Field . There’s a pretty big parking lot where you can station your car/camper.

💡 TIP – Almost every parking lot is equipped with spaces large enough for RV’s and motorhomes. Our camper from Outdoorsy was still small enough to fit a regular size parking.

We completed the hiking trail around Emerald Lake, which is about 5.2km and has little to no elevation. Pretty much the perfect hike after a long day of driving!

We spent the night at the nearby campsite Kicking Horse Campground . If you want to splurge and stay at an incredible location you should book a night at the Emerald Lake Lodge . Their rooms come with a view over Emerald Lake and the Rocky Mountains.

DAY 3 – BANFF NATIONAL PARK

Rise and shine today because today you’ll visit Moraine Lake at sunrise . Make sure that you arrive 1 hour before sunrise because there’s only one road leading to Moraine Lake and once the parking lot is full this road gets closed off.

❗️ 2023 UPDATE – As of 2023, Moraine Lake Road will be closed to privately owned vehicles. According to Parks Canada, access to the lake will be by Parks Canada Shuttle, Roam Transit, commercial buses and taxis from June to mid-October. 

The trail to the  rock pile viewpoint  is located on the left once you leave the parking and it takes about 10 minutes to reach the top. It’s easy to find yourself a spot more away from the crowds. Cause no matter what time of day, there will be a lot of other people here.

Drive down to Banff and grab breakfast at Melissa’s Missteak and enjoy the view over the mountains from their second floor. If you’re still tired after this morning grab the best coffee in Banff at Whitebark Cafe and explore the town on foot.

From Banff drive to the nearby Cascade Ponds . Cascade Ponds are a series of ponds that lie under Cascade Mountain and they’re beautiful to visit year round. But in the summer you can hold a bbq here at one of the picnic tables.

The last stop of day 3 of your Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary is Lake Minnewanka and the Lake Minnewanka scenic drive . Hike the shoreline trail for incredible views over the Lake Minnewanka reservoir and its surrounding mountains.

💡 TIP – Since this hike is on the edge of core grizzly territory, there are  seasonal restrictions  in place.  Between July 10 and September 15, cycling is not permitted, hikers must hike in tight groups of 4 or more (carrying bear spray) and dogs are not permitted past the Stewart Canyon Bridge.

The Lake Minnewanka Scenic Road starts close to the Trans Canada Highway exit and it’s a short loop that passes by lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake.

I highly recommend circling this road before sunset or in the early morning the next day for the biggest chance of wildlife sightings. Don’t forget to stop by Two Jack lake for an incredible view over Mount Rundle .

Set up camp at the Two Jack Lakeside Campground . This is a rather popular campground so I suggest checking in at 2pm.

Another option is to stay at Banff. You can stay at one of the most iconic hotels in Canada, the Fairmont Banff Springs or the Mount Royal Hotel , another historic hotel that dates back to 1908 and is located right in the center of Banff.

DAY 4 – LAKE LOUISE

Day 4 of your Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary starts with a drive up to Lake Louise . Start your day early so you can get the most out of your time here. Lake Louise is one of the most iconic places in the Canadian Rockies.

There’s a pretty  big parking lot  at Lake Louise but during the busiest summer months it can definitely fill up rather fast, especially on the weekend. So make sure to arrive early, that means before 8am to secure yourself a spot. Lake Louise introduced paid parking from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m during high season. The parking at Lake Louise costs  12.25CAD  for a full day of parking per vehicle.

Start your morning by watching the sunrise over Lake Louise and if you’re really lucky (like we were) you can also spot a grizzly bear with her cubs.

By 8am make sure to get in line at the boat dock to be one of the first ones in line to rent a canoe. The dock is run by the  Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise  and its open daily in-season from  8.30am to 7pm . The price is 145CAD for 1 hour , which is plenty of time to paddle across the entire lake. It’s definitely not cheap but renting a canoe is definitely one of the top things to do at Lake Louise .

Next up is one of the most fun hikes in the Canadian Rockies , the Little Beehive and Agnes Lake Teahouse. On your way up you’ll first come across Agnes Lake Teahouse where you can grab a cup of their famous tea. Make sure to bring cash with you cause they don’t accept cards.

Afterwards you can continue hiking and after a short burst upwards you’ll reach one of the most spectacular views over Lake Louise and the Canadian Rockies . There are several outlook points at the Little Beehive just be careful when you’re standing close to the edge.

In the evening we’ll drive back down to Banff where you can stay at the same accommodation as the night before. If you want you can drive the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Road again to increase your chances of spotting wildlife.

DAY 5 – KANANASKIS COUNTRY

Kananaskis Country is one of the more remote areas but should definitely be a part of your Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary ! To visit Kananaskis Country you’ll need  a Kananaskis Conservation Pass  ($90/year for 2 vehicles), which can be purchased through the  Alberta Parks website . You can also buy a daily pass at $15/day but this only registers 1 vehicle.

We only needed a pass for 2 nights and bought them at the Kananaskis Visitor Information Centre .

💡 TIP – Cell service in Kananaskis Country is pretty much non existent so make sure to download all of your maps and trails from before.

Today we’ll hike the Barrier Lake Trail , one of the very few places in Canada where you’ll find yourself in the Canadian Rockies and also see the prairie.

You can do the trail to the Prairie View Lookout either as an out & back hike or as a loop. I highly recommend doing it as a loop! It will add a couple more kilometers but it’s a lot less dull and you’ll also pass by a waterfall! The total length of the Barrier Lake Trail is 15.4km.

Drive down to the Kananaskis Interlakes Campground , one of the most scenic campgrounds in Kananaskis Country.

We were also greeted by an older female grizzly bear who roams this campground eating flowers wherever she goes.

DAY 6 – KANANASKIS COUNTRY

For your second day in Kananaskis Country you can choose from an abundance of different hikes. there’s the Smutwood Peak Trail, Tent Ridge, Sarrail Ridge or Windtower . We opted for the last one cause at the time of our visit there was still too much snow on the other trails and a high risk for avalanches.

Drive up to Spray Lakes and park at the West Wind Pass Trailhead . Make sure to bring enough layers with you cause even on a sunny day it can get incredibly windy on top of the mountain and the weather can shift in a minute. The hike starts pretty mild and winds up through the forest until you reach the West Wind Pass . For a lot of people this is the end of their hiking journey and while the view from here is already pretty stunning, it’s nothing compared to what you’ll find on top of the mountain!

The path now goes alongside the mountain and for a while it remains flat with some climbing involved. the last part of the hike is another 400 meter climb up on loose gravel rocks. Easy to hike back down but a pain in the ass to hike up. Take small steps and bring hiking sticks with you for some extra support.

Once you’re at the top get ready to enjoy spectacular 360° views !

After your hike get ready to drive back up towards Banff National Park cause tomorrow you’ll drive one of the most scenic roads in the Canadian Rockies!

We camped at the Mosquito Creek Campground , which is really close to Peyto Lake. And no worries, its name is just very unfortunate. You won’t find any more mosquitos here as anywhere else in the Canadian Rockies.

DAY 7 – ICEFIELDS PARKWAY

On day 7 of this Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary you’ll drive one of the most spectacular roads in the entire world. The Icefields Parkway connects Banff National Park with Jasper National Par k and with its 232km (144 miles) it’s easy to drive in a single day.

Along the way you’ll have to make several stops cause the Icefields Parkway is dotted with more than 100 ancient glaciers, cascading waterfalls and emerald lakes set in sweeping valleys of thick pine and larch forests.

Below you can find our favorite stops

• Mistaya Canyon
• Tangle Creek Falls
• Sunwapta Falls
• Athabasca Falls

After driving the Icefields Parkway you’ll arrive at Jasper National Park where you’ll stay for the next couple of days.

With our camper we chose to stay at the Wapiti Campground . If you’re looking for a hotel then I would either go for the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge or the Pyramid Lake Resort , which gives you an incredible view over one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies .

DAY 8 – JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Start your day early by watching the sunrise over Pyramid Lake , one of the best things to do in Jasper National Park . Head to the wooden bridge that connects the shore to Pyramid Island for one of the best viewpoints.

Next up is the Valley of the Five Lakes Trail , one of the most beautiful and rewarding hikes in Jasper National Park. This easy hike will take you along 5 pristine lakes, one even more beautiful than the other and can be enjoyed by the entire family.

It’s a very popular hike in Jasper National park and the parking lot is located right next to the Icefields Parkway. It’s not the biggest parking lot so I do advise you to arrive before 9am to make sure you can grab a spot!

Next you should head to Downtown Jasper to grab lunch at Jasper Brewing Company .

After lunch it’s time to visit one of the most popular places in Jasper National Park, the Maligne Canyon . Maligne Canyon is  the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park , with a depth of more than 50 meters at certain points. You can explore this incredible landmark by crossing 6 bridges built across various points of the canyon. There are several parking lots from where you can start this loop. We started at the fifth bridge which was pretty cool cause that way we saved the best for last! At bridge number 3 you’ll find an impressive waterfall and towards bridge number 2 and 1 the canyon is at its deepest.

Drive back to Jasper and go and grab your canoe gear at Pure Outdoors for tomorrow’s adventure! It’s best to contact them a couple of days from before and if you want to replicate our itinerary you need to ask them for a 24 hour rental that starts the day before at 7pm. Renting a canoe for 24 hours will cost you  €100 .

Drive up to Maligne Lake and Pure Outdoors will make sure your canoe is already there. All you have to do is unlock it.

Watch the sunset over Maligne Lake and park at the parking lot next to the dock . If you’re with a camper you can still catch a few hours of sleep before getting up in the middle of the night.

DAY 9 – SPIRIT ISLAND

So the goal for today is to reach Spirit Island by sunrise ! Spirit Island is one of the most iconic landmarks in Canada’s Rocky Mountains and the only way to reach it is by boat. Everyday at 9am overpriced tourist boats head out to see it but we will already be there at sunrise!

To reach Spirit Island you’ll have to canoe 14km one way which takes 3.5 to 4 hours depending on your skills and physique. Don’t do this adventure on your own, make sure there’s two of you in the canoe. We timed our start 4.5 hours before sunrise which meant we had to start paddling at 1am.

Once you reach Spirit Island drag your canoe on the shore across from it and enjoy the quiet and solitude while watching one of the most incredible moment s from this Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary.

After 2.5 hours we decided to paddle back so we weren’t bothered too much by the currents created by the tourist boats.

After arriving back to your camper/car you can drive back to Jasper to indulge in some much deserved breakfast or lunch. We tried to stay awake as long as possible afterwards on our campsite but by 6pm we were sound asleep that day.

DAY 10 – JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Your last day in Jasper National Park is another hiking day! But with this hike the reward versus the endurance is definitely worth it!

Drive up to the Miette Hotsprings to hike the Sulphur Skyline Trail . I really enjoyed this hike cause the elevation goes gradually and at the very end there’s a bit of a steep climb. But by then you are already above the tree line and you can enjoy the incredible views while hiking up.

And do you want to know the best part? After completing this hike you can take a dip in the Miette Hotsprings.

Since this will be your last day in the province of Alberta and tomorrow will be a long driving day, make sure to also rest enough. We spent the afternoon at Jasper Brewing Company before spending our last night at the Wapiti Campground.

DAY 11 – DRIVE FROM JASPER TO JOFFRE PROVINCIAL PARK

Today you’ll be doing a lot of driving, especially if you also want to see some of the most incredible places in British Columbia.

Make sure to stop by the Mount Robson Visitor Centre for one of the most incredible views over Mount Robson.

Along the way you can also make a small detour to the Helmcken waterfall and later on grab lunch at Kamloops at either the Sandbar Grill or at the Red Beard Cafe and try their hamburger with Brie cheese.

Our final stop of the day is one of the campsites closest to Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. We opted for the Rogers Creek Rec Site . If you’re looking for a hotel in the area the closest town is Pemberton .

DAY 12 – JOFFRE LAKES PROVINCIAL PARK

During this hike near Pemberton you’ll pass by all 3 lakes and all of them are vibrant turquoise in color. That is if the sun is shining, otherwise they’ll look more emerald. You’ll pass by the first lake after only 200 meter into the hike but after that it’s a bit of a climb up. My favorite was lake number 2 and from there it’s only a short hike up to lake number 3 which will also take you across a couple of bridges and alongside a waterfall.

I recommend starting your hike in the early morning since it’s a very popular route.

💡 TIP – A free Day-Use Pass is required to hike this trail during high season. Reservations can be made with BC Parks .

After spending the morning at Joffre Lakes it’s time to drive down to Vancouver. A fun activity to do is visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , one of the most popular activities in Vancouver. Tickets are 63CAD, which gives you access to all park attractions.

In Vancouver we stayed at the Capilano River RV Park , a big difference from all of the scenic campgrounds from before but your best option if you also want to visit Vancouver with a camper.

If you’re looking for a hotel in Vancouver then the area of Downtown Vancouver is a really good option.

DAY 13 – VANCOUVER

Start your last day of this epic Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary with one of the best activities to do in Vancouver. Head over to Granville Island where you can board the Prince of Whales which will take you towards the area of Vancouver Island to go whale watching .

🐳 This is the exact whale watching tour from Vancouver that we booked –  Vancouver, BC: Whale Watching Tour

During this tour you’ll have a guaranteed chance of seeing killer whales, also known as orca’s.

If you’re up for one more hike then I highly recommend driving up to Cypress Mountain to hike up to St Marks Summit . This 11km round trip will take you through a beautiful forest trail and at the end offers you an incredible view over Lion’s Bay.

On your drive down make a quick stop at Cypress Lookout to watch the sunset over Vancouver. If you’re in the mood for good food I highly recommend booking a table at either Miku Vancouver or Cardero’s Restaurant

DAY 14 – VANCOUVER

If you have a little time before your flight leaves this is an ideal time to simply wander around Vancouver.

Below you’ll find some of my favorite things to do in Vancouver:

• Wander around Queen Elizabeth Park
• Visit the Vancouver Art Gallery
• Enjoy Vancouver’s Beaches
• Exploring Historic Gastown

Afterwards it’s time to drop off the camper or rental car and checkin for your flight back home.

I hope you’ve found this 2 week Canadian Roadtrip Itinerary useful and that you’ll have an amazing time exploring this beautiful region.

Charlotte Lint is the founder of Charlies Wanderings. Charlotte has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing efficient travel guides and finding unique places to stay. Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

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The Ultimate Canadian Rockies Itinerary For 10 Days

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Planning a road trip in the Rocky Mountains of Canada? Check out my tried and tested Canadian Rockies itinerary for 10 days – the perfect amount of time for a taster of this astoundingly beautiful part of the world…

Our Canadian Rockies Road Trip didn’t start out with a bang.

Sixteen hours on a Greyhound is not anyone’s idea of fun, certainly not ours. I think the fact that they made us change buses and wait around for an hour at midnight was what made it even less fun than we expected it to be. Watching the sun rise slowly, lighting up the snow-capped mountains, made it more bearable.

We got into Calgary at 10 am and headed straight to Cora’s for breakfast. The first time we visited Calgary back in 2010, we were taken to Cora’s by our host and we were treated to the best breakfasts we had ever eaten.

It was pretty darn amazing and just what we needed after that long, loooong bus trip. Unlimited coffee refills too which we DEFINITELY needed!

Our Canadian Rockies Itinerary 10 Days

Our Canadian Rockies itinerary was for 10 days, and we decided to include Glacier National Park in Montana too. Ten days may seem like a lot of time but it really isn’t because there is so much to do in this area! 

Ideally, I would love to do a much longer Canada Road Trip in the future, but this 10 day Canadian Rockies road trip was a great taster. Next time I want to go RVing in Canada !

As we had been to Jasper on a previous road trip, we decided to skip it this time around to see some new places, but if you have longer, I highly recommend adding it to your road trip. Or drop Glacier National Park and add Jasper instead.

After picking up our rental car and some quick stops to get food and a propane canister for our camping stove (this camping food guide is a must-read before shopping for food and cooking gear), we hit the road to drive to our first stop: Waterton Lakes National Park .

Day 1-2: Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes is part of an International Peace Park that encompasses Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada, and Glacier National Park in Montana, USA. It is a three-hour drive from Calgary and we were recommended by a friend to drive on a smaller highway, rather than the busy and generic main highway.

We drove through flat prairie land, past ranches in the heart of Canada’s cowboy country. Gradually we started to see the mountains rising out from the flat land in the distance.

After driving for three hours, finally we started climbing, surrounded by sheer rock faces. As we entered the park it started raining heavily but luckily it didn’t last for long.

The Waterton Lakes townsite has a spectacular setting, nestled on the rocky shoreline of Upper Waterton Lake and surrounded by massive mountains. We walked around the tiny downtown and to Cameron Falls, a small but beautiful cascade nearby.

The camping ground located in the townsite was full so we drove a few kilometres out of the park and found a nice camping ground that was reasonably priced.

As we were cooking dinner there was a short rain shower followed by a bright pink sky and numerous rainbows, even a double rainbow. We somehow managed to keep our emotions in check, unlike some people http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQSNhk5ICTI .

Someone spotted a massive bear over the fence in the National Park. The fence was fairly flimsy (to a massive bear anyway) so I didn’t sleep well that first night. Every noise I heard was potentially the bear coming to eat us.

The next day we completed a gorgeous but challenging hike up to Crypt Lake, you can read more about that here .

We only had a short time in beautiful Waterton Lakes National Park but we loved it. It didn’t feel crowded like Banff or Jasper National Parks but it easily rivaled their beauty.

I’m not sure why it doesn’t get the same number of visitors but I hope it stays like that. The wide open spaces and unhurried pace is what makes it so special.

If you decide to stay longer in Waterton Lakes National Park, I recommend hiking the spectacular Carthew-Alderson trail, Bertha Lake and Bertha Falls, and Bear’s Hump.

Days 3-5: Glacier National Park

The next stop on our road trip was across the border in Montana. Glacier National Park is consistently rated as one of the top National Parks in the U.S. and I had wanted to visit it for ages.

Luckily because the border crossing was a small one, the TSA was a lot more relaxed and we got through within five minutes, a completely different experience than our last crossing into Detroit.

The Park Café near the St Mary entrance to the park is known for its amazing pie so that was where we headed first (of course). After fueling up on some incredible coconut cream pie and boysenberry pie, we drove the famous Going to the Sun Road across the park. Make sure to make a reservation to drive the road in 2024.

It is a spectacular drive and one of the best in the U.S. according to a lot of polls. We passed by shimmering lakes lying at the foot of snow-covered mountains. Waterfalls dropped into deep glacial valleys and wildflowers were abundant on the high alpine meadows.

At the highest point of the road, Logan Pass, there is a very popular Visitor Centre with numerous short hikes departing from there. We did the Hidden Lake Overlook hike which was only 5 km/3 miles return but very worthwhile.

There were lots of ground squirrels, marmots, and chipmunks along the way and we saw some white, hairy mountain goats in the distance.

Once we got to the viewpoint for the hidden lake it was lunch time so we sat and admired the lake view while eating. A few cheeky ground squirrels tried to join us and got VERY close but they were outta luck as you should never feed the wildlife.

We had a friend who lived in Whitefish, Montana which is just outside the western boundary of Glacier.

Whitefish is a cool little town with Wild West-style wooden storefronts and a tidy main street. We went for a wander then headed down to the lake, where half the town was sunbathing and swimming, before driving to our friend’s place.

Austin and his housemates (all guides for a cycling tour company) put on an amazing gourmet BBQ for us, complimented with some local Wild Huckleberry beer. Great evening and we even got to spend the night in a couple of spare beds at their place – luxury!

Back into the park the next day, we drove over to Many Glacier in the North East of the park which was going to be our base for the next two nights. 

We stopped along the way in Apgar Village which is tiny, comprising a couple of log cabins selling souvenirs, a motel, and a visitor center. It is situated on the lovely Lake McDonald, one of many pristine lakes in the park.

The grand Many Glacier Hotel is one of the great ‘Parkitecture’ Hotels famous in the US National Parks. This style is also known as ‘National Park Service Rustic’ and it intends to create buildings that harmonize with the natural environment.

The hotel has a great balcony with Adirondack chairs where you can relax after a hard day hiking, watching the sunset behind the mountains while sipping a hot chocolate. We did exactly that after our 16km/10 mile return hike to Iceberg Lake.

Iceberg Lake is one of the beautiful crystalline blue lakes in Glacier National Park with the added bonus of actually having icebergs floating in it. The hike was fantastic and pretty easygoing.

We hiked along a ridge line then through the forest, stopping for lunch at a waterfall, before emerging to the breathtaking sight of the lake. There were a lot of moose along the way including a mother and baby.

We picked lots of wild huckleberries and salmonberries on the trail. Huckleberries grow locally and no one has managed to domesticate them so you can only find them in certain areas of the USA and Canada. They are very similar in look and taste to blueberries. Delicious.

On our last day in the park, we did an epic 19km hike called the Highline Trail. It started at Logan Pass and traversed a thin trail above a stunning valley replete with waterfalls and small glaciers, before switch-backing up to a butte where we had lunch.

We met an older couple on the trail that had hiked to the butte and were on their way back. Apparently, a grizzly had been on the trail about an hour earlier. We didn’t see any sign of it when we were hiking up the switchbacks – we weren’t sure if we were relieved or disappointed.

After 12km/7.5 miles we got to the Granite Park wilderness Chalet. Pretty shattered, we relaxed for a bit with cold drinks before hiking another 7km/4.3 miles to get down to the road where a free shuttle would take us back to Logan Pass.

The hike down was roasting as a forest fire had burnt a lot of the trees the previous year so there wasn’t much shelter. After the amazing views of the first part of the hike, it was a bit boring with not much to look at except bare trees.

Until we saw the bear.

It crossed the trail about 20 meters in front of us and stopped us dead in our tracks. Mr Bear walked down to a small tree with berries and started feasting. He looked up at us but didn’t seem bothered by our presence.

After watching him, spellbound for a while, we continued the hot trek down.

We bid a fond farewell to the truly spectacular Glacier National Park the next morning. It is definitely in my top 5 U.S. National Parks!

But it was time for our Rocky Mountain Road Trip to continue.

Day 6: Fernie, Radium Hot Springs, Golden

Our good luck with the weather changed when we left the US. Canada welcomed us back with a grey, cloudy embrace. Driving over the Crowsnest Pass, we left the plains of cowboy country and were back in beautiful BC.

Our first stop in BC was Fernie, a small community in the BC Rockies with a historic downtown core and a strong arts scene. We visited the Arts Co-op and I was really impressed by the quality of art displayed there.

We also went to a small museum with information about the town’s history. It was really interesting and you can see how proud the locals are of their little piece of paradise in the mountains; the community spirit is strong in this place.  

I really liked the feel of the town and could see myself coming back to stay a while and explore the surrounding area.

Radium Hot Springs

Radium Hot Springs was not much further on from Fernie so we stopped there for a soak in the thermal hot springs. There is nothing like swimming in hot springs. 

Feeling relaxed, we drove another hour and found a quiet campground to spend the night before driving to Golden the next morning.

Golden is another cute little community known for its wooden pedestrian bridge (the longest freestanding timber frame bridge in Canada!) that they are very proud of.

A s the weather hadn’t improved, we spent the morning in the local coffee shop/bookstore catching up on our emails. Yoho National Park was the next stop on our road trip.

Day 7-8:   Yoho National Park

We set up camp at a basic camping ground in the park for two nights and spent the afternoon visiting the main attractions.

Takakkaw Falls is an iconic waterfall located inside the park and is truly spectacular. The sun came out as we pulled up. It is a short walk across the milky Yoho River to the thunderous Takakkaw. I climbed up beside the falls and got pretty wet from the spray.

Field is the town within Yoho National Park and is made up of a handful of orderly streets in the shadow of the surrounding mountains. Little colorful cottages, many of them B&Bs, abound.

The only shops in town are a restaurant, a cafe, and a post office. There is a small lake between the town and the highway where people swim. It is a lovely little place.

It started raining as we got to Emerald Lake, British Columbia’s answer to Lake Louise. Sheltering in the gift shop, we waited it out. The lake has an island with a hotel on it, that is linked by a bridge to the mainland.

We went for a walk around during a break in the weather. I love these technicolor lakes. The color still entrances me every time I see one.

On our first night in Yoho, a big thunderstorm blew in after dinner. After sitting in the tent for a while, trying to stop it from collapsing on us due to the crazy wind and pounding rain, we gave up and slept in the car. It was more comfortable than we thought it would be but we were happy to be back in the tent the next night.

There are lots of beautiful hikes in Yoho National Park if you have longer in the area – I highly recommend doing the excellent Iceline Trail for a stunning longer trail. For shorter hikes tackle Sherbrooke Lake, the Emerald Lake Loop, Yoho Pass, Twin Falls Teahouse, and Emerald Basin.

Optional Add-On: If you manage to get a shuttle reservation , I highly recommend spending a night or two camping or staying in a hut or lodge at Lake O’Hara. I did the hike to Abbot Pass Hut and it was one of my favorite Canadian adventures. The hut is no longer there but the Lake O’Hara area is one of the most breathtaking in the Canadian Rockies.

Day 9-10: Lake Louise and Banff 

Lake louise.

Lake Louise in Banff National Park is another lake of astonishing blue. We visited it on our first Canadian Rockies road trip but wanted to go again to do the Plain of Six Glaciers hike that takes in a historic teahouse as well as glaciers and lake views. There were a lot of cute little chipmunks and ground squirrels on the way up.

The hike followed the lake to the other end then rose up, through exposed rocks, into the mountains. The Plain of Six Glaciers teahouse is a beautiful historic two-storey log cabin with a balcony where you can enjoy refreshments.

We had a couple of overpriced lemonades then decided to hike back down again rather than up to the glacier viewpoint as it was quite cold and wet by that stage.

It started hailing on us when we were walking down, not very pleasant. After the hail stopped, Lake Louise came into view again and there was a striking rainbow hovering above it.  No one else was around to see it, it was just for us. So it didn’t end up being too miserable after all.

Since then I have done the combined Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse and Lake Agnes Teahouse hike and it is one of my favorite in the area.

Another amazing lake in Banff National Park (and my personal favorite) is Moraine Lake. When we first saw Moraine Lake we were completely blown away by its beauty and the quiet solitude after the crazy circus surrounding Lake Louise.

Three years later the circus has moved to Moraine Lake.

We had to park about 15 minutes walk up the road because the parking lot was full. We had wanted to do a 5-10km hike from Moraine but as there are a lot of grizzly bears in the area, you had to have at least four people together to hike any of the trails in the area or risk a big fine (or being attacked by a bear; incentive enough perhaps?). You can no longer drive to Moraine Lake, make sure to book a shuttle in advance.

We did the short walk around the rock pile instead. It offers the best views of the lake and we saw lots of one of my favorite critters – the pika.

Pikas are cute little rodents with no tails and big ears. They live in amongst the rocks and you can usually see them scurrying back and forth, collecting grass for their winter food supply. I saw in a documentary that they also eat the brains of dead birds. Ewwww.

If you have the time, I highly recommend hiking to Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass when visiting Moraine Lake. It was a hike I really enjoyed on a subsequent visit and is especially spectacular in the fall. 

Last time we were in Banff it was cold and rainy. We visited the hot springs, the majestic Fairmont Hotel and the excellent Whyte Museum as well as a couple of Banff’s fantastic restaurants.

This time around the sun was out so we strolled along the walkable main street, had ice cream at Cows (that amazing ice cream place hailing from PEI) then walked along the Bow River to the Bow Falls. There is rock flour in the river so it is a pale blue. Such a nice place to sit and relax in the sun.

We also went back to the Fairmont. I love the Fairmont Hotels in Canada. All of them look like castles and are so grand and impressive. If you are visiting Banff on a Wednesday, don’t miss the farmers market.

Banff is probably the most tourist-choked place in the Canadian Rockies but it is a pretty mountain village nonetheless.

There are lots of excellent hikes to do in the Banff area – I recommend Sulphur Mountain summit (you could also take a gondola but it is expensive), and Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots Trail between Lake Louise and Banff.

Our last stop on our 10 Day Canadian Rockies Itinerary was Lake Minnewanka near Banff where we went for a wander before driving towards Calgary where we would be dropping the car off the following morning.

It was a long weekend so we had trouble finding a camping ground but eventually, we got an overflow site in Kananaskis Country.

There were certainly ups and downs on our road trip (namely the weather) but overall we had a fantastic time and managed to do some incredible hikes in between the bouts of rain as well as catching up with a friend, eating lots of wild berries, soaking in hot springs, sampling local craft beer, visiting two countries, spotting loads of wildlife and driving one of the top drives in the US. Also, no bears ate us. Not bad at all!

The Rocky Mountains continue to captivate and amaze me and we are so glad we got to visit this amazingly picturesque part of the world again. Our 10 day Canadian Rockies Itinerary was one of the big highlights of five months in Canada .

I strongly encourage anyone with a passion for hiking to visit this magical place, it is a hiker’s paradise. Use this Canadian Rockies Itinerary for 10 Days as a guide and start planning your trip!

If you liked this post, check out some of my other Canada content:

• How I Traveled Through Canada on $30 Per Day
• A Great Canadian Adventure: Hiking To Abbot Pass Hut
• Crypt Lake Hike: One of the Best Hikes in Canada
• Life in Field, BC: The Best Mountain Town in the Canadian Rockies
• What To Do in Revelstoke If You Only Have Two Days
• The Best Vancouver Itinerary: 4 Days in Summer
• The Sunshine Coast, BC: Canada’s Most Underrated Destination?
• Revisiting Victoria: Canada’s English-Themed City
• What To Do in Summer on Denman Island, Canada
• Hiking Through the Mountains to Stunning Garibaldi Lake
• Why You Should Visit Vancouver in the Fall

2 Comments on The Ultimate Canadian Rockies Itinerary For 10 Days

Only spent a weekend in canada and even though i only saw a fraction of it,i loved it.

My favourite country (equal with New Zealand) Louisa. I hope you get back there, the people and the landscapes are truly beautiful 🙂

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7 Epic Road Trips You Can Enjoy in the Canadian Rockies

There is no shortage of epic drives to make in the Canadian Rockies. As soon as you drive through these vast mountains you’ll be met with some of the highest peaks you might ever see, glorious waterfalls, glacial lakes, and complete wilderness. We love hopping in the car on a beautiful summer or winter day and see what the road brings us.

Some days, all we want to do is jam out with a coffee in hand and enjoy the views, while other days, we’ll pack the bikes, paddleboards, or hiking equipment and make a full 10-hour day out of our road trip!

Our Favorite Roadtrips in the Canadian Rockies

Bow valley parkway.

The Bow Valley Parkway (or the 1A) is a road that every visitor to Banff National Park should drive on at least once. Before the Trans Canada, the 50 km long Bow Valley Parkway was the original road linking Banff and Lake Louise in the early 1900s.

Now, it’s a road primarily used for sightseeing and outdoor recreation, but it still connects Banff to Lake Louise, just at a slower pace than the highway. It’s a great alternative to the Trans-Canada and although it’s much slower than the highway, it allows visitors ample time to get out of the car and enjoy the breathtaking views.

The Bow Valley Parkway runs parallel to the Trans Canada, with the Bow River between the two. While both routes are scenic, the Parkway offers much more to visitors. Along the way, there are some great hiking options, including the famous Johnston Canyon. There are also a few accommodation options and scenic pull-off points like the famous Morant’s Curve . It’s beautiful all year round, though there are some closures to be aware of during the summer months.

In the summer, Parks Canada also closes a section of the road to vehicles, making it ideal for cycling. We head here multiple times a year in the summer just to get out the bikes and cycle on this stunning road.

• How Long Does it Take to Drive : 1-3 hours.
• Things to Note: There are seasonal closures during the summer months, stay up to date on the Parks Canada website.

Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive/Loop

The 24 km Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive is just outside Banff. If you haven’t visited the stops along this route yet, it’s worth a half-day of driving to see the alpine lakes.

Hop on this road, and you can see four mesmerizing lakes in 24 km. Every bend along the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive unveils fresh panoramas and concealed wonders. From shaded nooks and vantage points with stunning lake views to remnants of a bygone mining town, it’s possible to spend the whole day on the road if you bring your picnic supplies and a stand-up paddleboard or kayak.

From Banff, the first stop you’ll come across is Cascade Ponds , an excellent place to hang out under Cascade Mountain. Continue on to Johnson Lake , one of the best lakes in Banff to swim. After you’ll see Two Jack Lake , we love to take the stand-up paddleboards out. Just a 5-minute drive away is Lake Minnewanka , with nice trails to walk the lake and a boathouse where you can board a cruise and head back to Devil’s Gap. If you are visiting  Banff with kids  or are a history buff, you may even enjoy a short visit to the Bankhead Ghost Town.

Notable hikes along the route are C Level Cirque and Alymer Lookout. One of my favorite things to do is hop on a road bike and cycle the 24 km for an awesome workout!

• How Long Does it Take to Drive : 1-2 hours, depending on how long you stop at each lake.
• Things to Note: You cannot paddle at each lake in one day per Parks Canada rules .

Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway , or Hwy 93 North, is a scenic drive between Banff and Jasper that attracts visitors from around the world. It’s a place where one can enjoy drive-in nature, surrounded by waterfalls, rock spires, ancient glaciers, and turquoise lakes.

It’s often been called the most scenic drive in the world, and I’ve yet to drive down a road as beautiful as the Icefields Parkway. This 232 km double-lane highway runs along the Continental Divide. It runs from Lake Louise in Banff to the Town of Jasper, both fantastic places. You can drive the parkway from Jasper to Banff and from Banff to Jasper.

There are many stops along the Icefields Parkway, so many that you probably won’t get to them all in one drive. We have driven the road countless times and still haven’t seen everything. So, wake up early and brace for an entire day of staring up in awe.

A few of our favorite stops include Herbert Lake, Bow Lake , Peyto Lake, Mistaya Canyon, Athabasca Falls , and Sunwapta Falls. If you want to hike, there are plenty of opportunities like Parker Ridge and Wilcox Pass. About halfway between Banff and Jasper, you’ll reach Athabasca Glacier, and it’s here you can enjoy a walk on Athabasca Glacier or book the Jasper Skywalk for a walk on a glass bottom floor. If you want to stay on the Parkway and enjoy the beauty a while longer, we highly recommend booking a night at the Glacier View Lodge.

• How Long Does it Take to Drive : 4-10 hours, depending on stops.
• Things to Note: There are no services (not even fuel) during the winter months.

Maligne Lake Road

The scenic 46-kilometer journey is the most scenic road in Jasper, and is one of the best places to spot wildlife in the park. The drive starts near Jasper town and concludes at Maligne Lake. Constructed along the glacier-carved valley nestled between the Maligne and Elizabeth mountain ranges, the road offers stunning vistas of towering peaks, turquoise glacier lakes, the spirited Maligne River. The road is famous for its wildlife sightings, including elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, white-tail deer, as well as grizzly and black bears.

One of the first stops is Hanging Valley Viewpoint at kilometer 6, which is easy to miss if you’re not paying attention. It provides an excellent view of Athabasca Valley, Pyramid Mountain, and the town of Jasper. Continue to Maligne Canyon, one of Jasper’s famous highlights. It’s here you can get out of the car and enjoy a 1-2 hour along the canyon. The next major stop is Medicine Lake, or “disappearing lake,” because it quite literally disappears in the winter. You’ll eventually dead-end at Maligne Lake , one of the most photographed and famous lakes in the Rockies.

At Maligne Lake, you can enjoy the marvelous scenery, rent a canoe from the Boathouse, have a coffee at the Waffle House, or book a cruise out to Spirit Island .

This road is equally stunning during the winter months, though you should be prepared for winter driving conditions and to be self-reliant. There’s no cell coverage along this road, and there are no services in the winter months. All the restaurants and operations at Maligne Lake are also closed in the winter.

• How Long Does it Take to Drive : 2-4 hours. All day if going to Maligne Canyon and enjoying the cruise.
• Things to Note: Admire wildlife from a distance and avoid creating a bear jam.

Highwood Pass

Highwood Pass is the highest paved highway in Canada, at 2,206m. It offers astounding views of the front range. The road winds through Peter Lougheed Provincial Park on Alberta Highway 40 in Kananaskis.

At the start of summer, the snow often melts before the official opening date for the highway (typically June 15th). It makes for an excellent car-free route for cyclists and a pretty nice challenge if you bike the entire route. Due to the elevation and high snow levels, the road closes in the winter, typically between December 1st and June 14, months due to avalanche risk

There are some excellent hiking trails along Highwood Pass, including Pocaterra Ridge , Arethusa Cirque, and Mist Mountain.

• Things to Note: Closed in the winter months.

Red Rock Canyon Parkway

One of the most famous roads in Waterton National Park is the Red Rock Canyon Parkway. It’s 9 km of rolling hills, mountains, and grassland prairie with plenty of pull-off points. You can drive it, bring your own bike, or rent one from Pat’s downtown and cycle the whole way! Taking in the views along this route is one of the best things to do in Waterton. Even if you’re from elsewhere in Alberta, I promise you haven’t seen colors in the mountains like this before.

The famous Red Rock Canyon is at the end of the Red Rock Canyon Parkway. It is a stunning feature in the park and easy to hike around. Here, you can bring the whole family for a day of relaxation.

Smith Dorrien Trail to Kananaskis Trail (Hwy 742 to HWY40)

The Smith Dorien Trail is 70 km long, running from south of Canmore to Kananaskis Trail (Highway 40). We recommend starting the drive in Canmore (above Grassi Lakes ) and doing the whole drive as a loop. I can’t comment on everything along the route because there is just so much! Some even say they think it’s more beautiful than the Icefields Parkway!

From Canmore, you’ll pass Goat Pond, where you can bring a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy the water. You’ll also pass Spray Lakes, the idyllic Mount Engadine Lodge , and the trailheads for hikes like West Wind Pass, Chester Lake, and Burstall Pass .

Before reaching Highway 40, you’ll come across the Blackshale Suspension Bridge, which is fun to do with the kids, and eventually Kananaskis Lakes. When you connect to the Kananaskis Trail, you’re in for even more beauty!

It’s important to note that the Smith Dorrien Trail, while not dangerous, is a gravel road and is incredibly dusty. It’s always corrugated, even after Parks does work on it, which can make for a bumpy ride. A 4×4 is not necessary, though a high-clearance vehicle wouldn’t hurt.

• How Long Does it Take to Drive : 3-5 hours, depending on stops.
• Things to Note: Speeding is never good, especially on this road.

Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies

• Tours (New in 2024): The Banff Blog is partnering with one of the leading tour companies in Western Canada so readers can experience the magic of the Rockies with other travelers – without having to think about a thing. See all our 2024 tour offerings here!
• Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
• Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car : The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service connecting you from the Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Banff or Canmore.
• Get Around : We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. Or embark on an epic campervan trip. We like to compare prices on Motorhome Republic and Outdoorsy .
• Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going to watch for cheap airfare deals!
• Hop On, Hop Off : This tour is taking Banff by storm. It’s exactly what it sounds like, hop on and off a bus bound for all the best attractions at your own pace!

About Natasha

Natasha calls Canmore, Alberta home. After traveling across seven continents and 90 countries with Cameron, she settled down in the stunning Canadian Rockies. She loves to help others travel and make their planning easier. She is a winter enthusiast and loves to snowboard, ice skate, and snowshoe and enjoy all the fantastic summer opportunities in Banff like hiking, scrambling, and biking. You can find her in the mountains or enjoying a coffee by the river. Learn more on the about us page! If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

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The Most Epic 5 Day Itinerary & Road Trip into the Canadian Rockies

Buckle up and get ready for an exhilarating adventure as we embark on the most epic 5-day itinerary and road trip into the mesmerizing Canadian Rockies. From the bustling city of YYC to the charming town of Canmore, the iconic landscapes of Banff, the pristine beauty of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, the captivating hues of Peyto Lake, this journey will take you on a whirlwind exploration through some of nature's greatest masterpieces. Get ready to witness jaw-dropping vistas, chase unforgettable sunsets, and create lifelong memories in the heart of the Rockies. Let's hit the road and dive into the wilderness like never before!

Day 1: Arrive in Calgary, and drive to Canmore

Calgary is one of the largest cities in Alberta and is also the closest International Airport near Canmore and Banff National Park. The airport has a large number of rental car companies within the domestic departure level.. You can also book through the Banff Airporter Shuttle service that will drop you off close to the Town Centre, at the Coast Hotel. This will run you about $79.99 one way or $160 return and tickets can be purchased online. Our recommendation is to use Vivo Green , which will run you about $55 pp one way, and will drop you off at the Northwinds Hotel Canmore .

Driving time from Calgary to Canmore is 1.2 to 1.5 hours dependent on the road you take:

• Fastest Route: Calgary to Canmore on the Trans-Canada Highway. Takes 1 hr 20 min across 122.0 km via the Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 W.
• Scenic Route: Taking an additional 20 minutes to Canmore, you’ll exit towards Cochrane and take Highway 1A from Cochrane to Canmore.

Within Canmore and Banff public transit is free, and between locations, the price to get from Canmore to Banff is $6.

Recommended itinerary for the day:

• Head into Canmore's downtown area and find a cozy local café ( Rocky Mountain Bagel Co and Eclipse Coffee Roasters are just a couple of our favs) for breakfast.
• The Canmore Museum is  worth a visit if you're interested in the history and culture of the area. Take a peek at the Big Head on the main street, steps away from one of our recommended properties, the Lamphouse, which backs onto the river.
• Choose a hiking trail that suits your fitness level and interests. Some popular options include Grassi Lakes Trail , Ha Ling Peak , East End of Rundle or the easier Policeman's Creek Trail.
• Walking Trail - Policeman Creek Boardwalk ‍
• Hiking Trail - Grassi Lakes ‍
• For an adventurous experience, consider joining a cave tour. Canmore Cave Tours offer guided explorations of Rat's Nest Cave, where you can crawl through passages and marvel at the unique underground formations.
• End your day by taking a seat at Rhythm & Howl aour very own restaurant serving up serving up dishes inspired by the surrounding landscapes, using only the freshest, locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

Top Canmore Lodging Recommendations:

For the budget conscious travelers

For the unique and comfort travelers

For the instagrammable location

Top Canmore Restaurant Recommendations:

For the eclectic flavours: Rhythm & Howl

For the best pizza in town: Rocket Pie

For the best Canmore pub food: Tank310

Day 2, 3 & 4: Travel to Banff National Park and the Townsite of Banff

Banff National Park is a breathtakingly beautiful protected wilderness mecca located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. It is Canada's oldest national park, established in 1885, and covers over 6,600 square kilometers of rugged mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes.

To venture in Banff National Park, you'll need to purchase a park pass. Passes can be purchased for up to seven people within one vehicle, and the individual prices can be found here . Entry and service fees are charged at most national parks and national historic sites, where revenues are kept to support visitor services and facilities. If you’re planning to travel into other Canadian National Parks, the Discovery Pass may be an alternative option for you depending on how many days you will be traveling through.

You can also take local transit from Canmore to Banff with Roam Transit. The Route is called Canmore-Banff Regional Route 3, and the schedule can be found here along with the various bus stations.

Driving from Canmore to Banff is about 25-30 minutes by the Trans Canada Highway, watch for the signs to exit into Banff Town Centre and follow the route.

Day 2: Lake Minnewanka and Hot Springs

• Start your day with breakfast at Wild Flour Bakery , a cozy bakery and cafe in Banff.
• Drive or take a shuttle to Lake Minnewanka , a lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Hike around the lake, or simply relax and take in the view.
• How to get there via Transit: Roam Route 6 : Daily service operating May - September
• Take a boat tour around the lake.
• Head towards Two Jack Lake , a serene and picturesque lake located just a short distance from Lake Minnewanka. Take a stroll around the lake or relax on the sandy beach, taking in the views of Mount Rundle and the surrounding forests.
• Head back to Banff and have lunch at The Eddie Burger + Bar , a popular local spot for burgers and craft beer.
• Spend the afternoon exploring Banff's downtown area, which is full of shops, restaurants, and art galleries. You can also visit the Banff Park Museum or the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies to learn about the area's natural and cultural history.
• In the evening, soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs and enjoy the sunset over the mountains.
• For dinner, head to The Bison Restaurant , which offers contemporary Canadian cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients.

Day 3: Banff Gondola & Two Jack Lake

• Start your day early and head to the Banff Gondola . Take the scenic ride up to Sulphur Mountain and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
• Take the Banff Gondola up - There is only one price per day. The pricing does change based on the day of your visit (weekends vs weekdays) and how far in advance you buy your tickets. Same day tickets are higher but it is one price for the entire day regardless of the time of the day you visit. ‍
• Hike up Sulphur Mountain ‍
• Have lunch at the Sky Bistro ‍
• Spend some time exploring the interpretive center and boardwalks at the summit, which offer information about the local ecology and wildlife.
• After lunch, take a hike up Tunnel Mountain , one of the best birds eye views of Banff, that will take around an hour and 40 minutes to complete, round trip.
• End your day with a nice Italian dinner at LUPO , a popular restaurant in Banff that has great specials throughout the week.

Top Lodging in Banff:

Best Stay in Banff

Top Banff Restaurants:

For amazing views and Canadian cuisine

For contemporary cuisine

For quick bites

Day 4: Johnston Canyon

Carved over centuries by the rushing waters of Johnston Creek, this picturesque canyon offers a captivating hiking experience. Visitors can meander along the well-maintained pathways, passing by stunning waterfalls, turquoise pools, and towering limestone cliffs.

Getting to Johnston Canyon by car takes around 30 minutes to get to. Get to Johnston Canyon trailhead by bus with Roam Transit. A one-way fare costs around $2.50-5.00. The route is called Johnston Canyon Route 9 and the stations can be found here. Make sure you reserve your tickets in advance.

• Start your day by rising early and embarking on a journey to Johnston Canyon , making sure to pack some snacks and lunch for your upcoming hike.
• Begin your hike towards the Lower Falls, taking in the captivating sights along the way.
• Continue onwards to the Upper Falls.
• For a break, find a spot along the trail or at a designated picnic area to enjoy your  packed lunch amidst the breathtaking beauty of nature.
• Afterward, retrace your steps and hike back down to the parking lot, covering a total distance of 5.3 kilometers (3.3 miles).
• As the day winds down, treat yourself to an early evening meal and drinks at the Rose and Crown rooftop patio. Take in the views and enjoy the sunshine.

Day 5: Baker Creek & Icefields Parkway

Experience the enchanting turquoise waters of Lake Louise and the mesmerizing hues of Peyto Lake, surrounded by the breathtaking Canadian Rockies.

The Brewster Bus offers direct transportation from Banff to Lake Louise. The bus usually picks up passengers from most hotels in Banff or the Brewster Transportation Centre. The one-way fare is approximately $40.

Roam Transit operates two routes from Banff to Lake Louise. The 8X route, known as the Lake Louise Express, provides non-stop service from Banff to Lake Louise Village. The 8S route, called the Lake Louise Scenic Route, offers a scenic journey to Lake Louise with multiple stops. The one-way fare for Roam Transit is $10, and various pass options are available.

If you prefer to drive, it takes around 40 minutes to reach Lake Louise from Banff. The route involves taking the Trans Canada Highway or Bow Valley Parkway. This option provides flexibility and the opportunity to explore other attractions along the way.

Recommended Itinerary for the day:

• Start your day early and drive to Lake Louise, one of the most iconic destinations in Banff National Park. If you’re not driving this trip, take our convenient shuttle service that departs from Baker Creek daily with Ten Peaks Shuttle . Hike the Lake Agnes trails, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery.
• Have lunch at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise , a historic hotel with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• In the afternoon, take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway and stop at Peyto Lake, which is renowned for its stunning turquoise color and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• On the way back to Banff, stop at Bow Lake for more beautiful views.

Top Lake Louise Lodging Recommendations:

For incredible scenery and the cutest cabins

For a funky jacuzzi suite

Top Restaurant Recommendations:

For the rustic lovers

For some brews with a view

For the pub lovers

For the upscale crew

Best scenic viewpoint:

‍ Bow Summit Viewpoint

Best stop along the way to Baker Creek:

‍ Morant’s Curve , only 6 minutes down the road from Baker Creek

To reserve this incredible itinerary, please reach out to our groups and events email when booking multi-property stays. By booking the entire itinerary with your preferred properties from all destinations in the itinerary, you'll enjoy a fantastic 15% discount on your entire booking.

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Canadian Rockies Road Trips & Tailor Made Self Drive Tours

The Canadian Rockies is everything you would imagine: towering mountains, snow-capped peaks, shimmering lakes and endless opportunities to spot wildlife. 

Home to popular banff national park (canada’s oldest and most visited) and jasper national park (the largest in the canadian rockies), you can spend days or weeks in jasper, banff and lake louise and still never tire of the sights. , as part of your road trip, take part in a food tour, try ice climbing, go on a wildlife walk or see it all from above in a helicopter..

Our experts can indulge your every desire to plan the perfect Canadian Rockies road trip for you.

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"We just came back from our winter adventure 5 days/4 nights in Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada. We had such a nice time and everything was great."

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"We did the "Rail & Drive Across Canada" with you & it was wonderful. A Bucket List dream come true!"

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"Thanks for a great holiday. The Rockies - awesome, Victoria- beautiful. Whistler- magic."

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A Memorable 3-week Canadian Rockies Itinerary: An RV roadtrip

A roadtrip to never forget: a 3-week canadian rockies itinerary with an rv.

This trip was one to remember. Thinking back about it, I’m still so pleased I’ve been able to do this trip. An RV road trip through the Rocky Mountains, Canada. How great does that sound? In between assignments for my job, end of September 2018, I’ve been able to go on a 3-week Canadian Rockies trip, a road trip with an RV. Before the trip, I’d done a whole lot of research on the route, the best places to stay, what hikes to do, and what other places to visit to draft up the perfect 3-week Canadian Rockies Itinerary. Visiting the Canadian Rockies was a dream coming through and I did want to get the most out of these 3-weeks in the Canadian Rockies. All my personal experiences and prior research are covered in this extensive travel guide to the Canadian Rockies through British Columbia and Alberta. 

Day to Day travel plan (itinerary):

Day 1&2: Vancouver Day 3: RV pick-up and drive to Whistler Day 4: Hike Garibaldi Lake Day 5&6: Drive and Well’s Grey Day 7 t/m 10: Discover Jasper National Park Day 11&12: Driving the Icefields Parkway 

Day 13&14: Lake Louise Area Day 15&16: Banff National Park  Day 17: Yoho National Park (Emerald Lake) Day 17&18: Kelowna  Day 19&20: Vancouver

A travel map to the canadian rockies

|| start your canadian itinerary in vancouver (2 nights)

Vancouver is the starting point of our RV road trip covering the regions of British Columbia and Alberta. Vancouver is a great city with a wonderful food and drink culture. You can enjoy yourself here for a couple of days exploring different parts of the city, visiting Granville Island, exploring Yaletown, discovering Stanley Park, and heading towards Downtown Eastside to explore many craft beer breweries.  We stayed here for 2 nights, which meant we had 1 full day to discover Vancouver, as on the 2nd day we had to pick up our RV for the trip. 

We stayed in GEC Granville Suites Downtown , which was a perfect and affordable hotel in a central location. 

|| Whistler area and garibaldi lake (2 nights)

We picked up our RV from Fraserway. We had a hotel pick-up that brought us to Delta, the area where we could pick up the camper. This took a while, as there was some paperwork to do, using the camper was explained, and of course some waiting time. We loaded our suitcases in the RV and around noon – we were ready to go! 

From Delta, we drove towards Whistler where we found a Walmart on the way and decided to do our groceries. We tried to buy as many preservable foods as possible for the 3 weeks (say hello to pancakes in the morning, frozen fruits, crackers, soups, and more). Next to that, as huge craft beer fans, we found a BC Liquor Store and bought some supplies. After this, we continued to our first RV park called Whistler RV Campground.  

We stayed two nights at Whistler RV Campground, as we wanted to do the hike towards Garibaldi Lake , which in my opinion was the most beautiful trail near Whistler. You’ll read everything about it in my Garibaldi Lake report. 

|| A LEsser known national park: Well's Grey (2 nights)

Well’s Grey is one of the relatively lesser-known National Parks. However, coming from Vancouver and Whistler, you don’t want to drive straight to Jasper National Park. On the one hand, because it is just too far for a single leg, on the other hand, because you have this spot in between and you of course don’t want to get sick of full days of driving too soon.

We decided to spend two nights in Well’s Grey and stayed at the Dutch Lake Resort & RV park , which is located at, surprise surprise, the Dutch Lake. From here, we used one day to discover Well’s Grey and visit the, in my opinion, main highlight, Helmcken Falls. While you are at it, definitely also continue to Dawson Falls. We drove around in the park and actually, this was the only time we saw some black bears! after touring around in Well’s Grey, we went back to the campsite, enjoyed the views of the Dutch Lake, and prepared for the next drive.

|| Travel guide to Jasper national park (3 nights)

On to the next destination! We drove past Mount Robson and continued to Jasper National Park. We’ve stayed 3 nights at Wapiti Campground. Another option nearby is Whistlers Campground and from what I’ve seen and researched, the two don’t differ too much. However, at the beginning of October, the only campground open was Wapiti. From Wapiti it takes about an hour to walk to Jasper Town (Whistlers is slightly closer). As we loved to have a beer in the city center, we went on foot in the evening. During the day, there are some RV parking spots near the city center. Perfect when you want to go for lunch, want to check out the tourist office, or need some groceries. We’ve had some lovely food and drinks at Earl’s Kitchen in town and don’t forget to visit Jasper Brewery when you are into craft beer. 

We’ve stayed 2/3 days in Jasper, as there is enough to do! Maligne Lake & Spirit Island were our highlights, but there are also many hikes to take in the park. We did the Valley of the Five Lakes hike. More below!

Maligne Lake & Spirit Island

Maligne Lake is stunning. This is one of the only places where we did a tour, which is also needed to visit Spirit Island. I’ve written a specific guide on what to expect from the Maligne Lake Cruise and all the practicalities you’ll have to know.  From the Maligne Lake, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Maligne Canyon, however, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this one. After your cruise on Maligne Lake, you can also continue the day with the Bald Hills trail, Opal Hills trail, or any other hike starting from the lake. 

Btw, did you know Maligne Lake is the perfect place to spot a Moose? 

Hiking in Jasper National Park

Like all the national parks in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is home to many great hikes. We’ve done the Valley of the Five Lakes trail the day we arrived and headed to Pyramid Lake on the other full day we had. Both were stunning as the pictures show. However, there are more hikes. Read about the top 10 hikes in Jasper here. 

|| Driving the icefields parkway (1 to 2 nights)

Now it gets slightly complicated. Well, at least for me to describe the route. The pictures don’t lie, it was VERY snowy when we drove the Icefield Parkway. This was the second day we drove the Icefields Parkway as the first day we couldn’t see anything as a snowstorm was going on and it was very very cloudy. But, what I would normally recommend: take your time for the Icefields Parkway as it is stunning and a new view shows up around every corner. 

You can find an overview of all stops worth visiting along the Icefields Parkway here.

|| Exploring the Lake louise area (2 nights)

The Lake Louise Area might be one of the most popular ones of the Canadian Rockies. Lake Louise is home to the famous lake, surprise, Lake Louise but also to Moraine Lake which might even be prettier. The area is also home to some great hikes such as the Lake Agnes hike and Plain of the Six Glaciers. Both do have a nice tea house on the way, which is pretty unique if you ask me. As you might have read by now, the weather wasn’t too good so we weren’t able to do most of the hikes and couldn’t visit Moraine Lake. Good excuse to head back right? 

Want to read about the Lake Louise area in more detail? Check out this In and Around Lake Louise Travel Guide. 

|| banff national park (2 nights)

Time to head to Banff National Park! It was quite fun to be back in a small city, head to a craft beer bar (it’s a hobby) and enjoy some nice food in a restaurant. As it was snowing like crazy, we used Banff as a place where we were still able to do something, as hiking became impossible. So, now you are wondering, what to do in Banff while still enjoying our 3-week Canadian Rockies itinerary? 

We went to the Banff Hotsprings for a relaxing experience in a hot spring while looking over a big layer of snow. Another recommendation about Banff, is the Banff surprise corner, rewarding you with a great view. 

We had a lovely Cheese Fondue dinner at The Grizzly House , enjoyed some cocktails at the famous Park Distillery,  and enjoyed our beers at  Banff Ave Brewing Co.

Looking to spend a little more time outside and around Banff, there are several lakes/hikes to take. Head for example to the Vermillion Lakes, Lake Minnewanka or take some more time to hike the East End of Rundle Trail (6 hours).

We haven’t gone up with the Banff Gondola, however, I’ve heard good stories. The gondola rewards you with beautiful views from the top of Sulphur Mountain. Buy your tickets here.

A great place to spend the night is the Tunnel Mountain Village II Campground, it isn’t the most charming location, even though you have a great view of the mountains around, but it only takes about 20 minutes to walk to the city center, which is quite nice! There is also a resort part of Tunnel V illage if you prefer more luxury as a break. 

|| yoho national park (1 or no nights)

I have to admit, Yoho National Park didn’t swipe me off my feet. The only place we did visit was the Emerald Lake , of which I saw stunning images on Instagram, but the weather conditions caused the chalet to be closed and the Lake not to be as beautiful as normally. However, we still took the hike up ( Emerald Lake Basin Trail ) which took around 3 to 4 hours. We went to the Yoho National Park visitor center for more inspiration, however, we decided to leave it with this and continue our journey towards Kelowna. However, Yoho is still a great place on the way when coming from Banff, so if you want to spend the night, I would recommend Kicking Horse Campground.  We decided to drive a little bit further and stop around Revelstoke where we relaxed during the afternoon and spend the night at  Revelstoke   Campground,  which is pretty modern and where you also have the opportunity to stay in chalets.

|| Wine Tasting in the Okanagan valley: kelowna + OSOYOOS (2 nights)

It’s time for some wine! An area I wanted to visit was the Okonogan Valley, famous for its wines and to balance out the nature in our 3-week Canadian Rockies Itinerary. We decided to spend 2 nights in the area of which we spend one in Kelowna. We knew someone there and were able to park the RV in front of the house and enjoy a great Thanksgiving dinner! In Kelowna, we spend a good bit of the afternoon at Mission Hill,  famous for the Oculus wine, where we did a tour and were able to see the property, discover the wine cellars and of course taste their best wines. 

The next morning we drove down south a little bit more (towards Penticton) and did spend some time discovering the area and tasting wines at smaller locations. Unfortunately, I don’t remember the place where we spend the night around here. 

The next day, we continued south even further and drove towards Osoyoos to spend another night and discover the wineries close. I would recommend just driving around and the wineries can provide you with a map of other wineries in the area. There are plenty! We went to for example the Burrowing Owl  (amazing Cabernet Franc), Nk’mip cellars, Moon Curser Vineyards, La Stella Winery, 

|| vancouver (2 nights)

When heading back to Vancouver, we stayed for one night at the Burnaby Cariboo RV park, which we got for free when renting our RV. We decided to do this, so we could hand in our RV at the set time in the morning, but wouldn’t have to risk driving here. on the way, we got some Four Winds craft beers (FAVOURITE!) to spend our last night in front of the RV with.

The next day, we headed to Delta, to hand in our FraserWay RV after which we headed to Vancouver, where we stayed the night in Yaletown. We discovered Yaletown, visited Yaletown Brewing, and head an amazing sushi dinner at Minami, which is sushi I’ll never forget!

We stayed again in GEC Granville Suites Downtown , the perfect place to end this holiday. 

Final notes on a 3-week RV itinerary through the canadian rockies

And that was it, the end of our 3-week RV roadtrip through the Canadian Rockies. An amazing and unforgettable experience, if only because of the crazy weather we had and icicles of 1,5 meter hanging on the mirrors of the RV. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to see some locations and do as many hikes as planned, but it was a great experience. I would love to go back once, go camping and discover the area off the beaten tracks. 

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Best Road Trips Canadian Rockies

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Itineraries for classic road trips plus other lesser-known drives  with expert advice to pick the routes that suit your interests and needs

Full-color route maps -  easy-to-read, detailed directions

Detours -  delightful diversions to see the Canadian Rockies' highlights along the way

Link Your Trip -  cruise from one driving route to the next

Insider tips  - get around like a local, avoid trouble spots and be safe on the road - local driving rules, parking, toll roads

Stretch Your Legs -  the best things to do outside the car

Essential info   at your fingertips  - hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, prices

Honest reviews for all budgets  - eating, sleeping, sightseeing, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss

Lavish color photography  provides inspiration throughout

Covers  the Icefield Parkway, Radium Hot Springs, Emerald Lake, Marble Canyon, Banff National Park, Spiral Tunnels, Yoho National Park, Lake Louise, Kootenay Lake, Kimberley Alpine Resort and more.

ISBN: 9781838695682

Edition: 1st

Publication Date: October 2022

Writers: Lonely Planet

128 pages,30 maps | Dimensions: 128mm width × 197mm height

Next edition due: Not yet determined

An Amazing Road Trip to Alberta and BC: Touring the Canadian Rockies

What do you get when you drive through two countries, visit two provinces, travel for 14 days, and log over 3600 miles?

An amazing road trip to Alberta and British Columbia in Canada!

And, no doubt, you will be happy and exhausted by the time you arrive back home!

What are the Best Things To See on a Road Trip to Alberta and BC?

The Rocky Mountain range, the largest in North America, extends some 3,000 miles from New Mexico through Colorado , Wyoming, Idaho, and Montana in the United States up to Alberta and British Columbia in Canada.

Follow this mountain range from Colorado on a road trip to Alberta and BC and you will be rewarded with diverse wildlife sightings, amazing hiking trails, dramatic wilderness, scenic byways, and stunning alpine lakes as you sightsee along the way. If you have never hiked through the mountains of Colorado or in others locations along the Rocky Mountain range, you are in for a treat.

1. Alberta Sunsets

First off, enjoy the sunsets in southern Alberta as you are driving along on your road trip to Alberta and BC. They don't disappoint.

In fact, there is actual SCIENCE behind the phenomenon of amazing sunsets in southern Alberta.

Make a point to plan your drive time so that you can stop and enjoy the setting sun in Alberta. Apparently, the stellar sunsets are amazing due to the shape of the land combined with Chinook wind conditions. That's right, those mild, westerly "Chinook" winds drive moist Pacific air from British Columbia across several mountain ranges to arrive on the prairies of Alberta.

Crossing the mountain ranges "wrings out" much of the moisture until dry air descends on southern Alberta. And this dry air is the beginning ingredient of a stellar sunset.

Next, add in some upper-level clouds (if there is sufficient moisture) to create a "Chinook Arch".

"And now the stage is set for a really good sunset if everything else works out.

In order to get an excellent, long-lived sunset, the horizon has to be free and clear of cloud. This is why it is important that the low-level air is dry. It enables the unobstructed disc of the sun to shine for as long as possible on the belly of the cloud as it sets. And secondly, the higher the cloud layer is in the atmosphere (as with Chinook Arches), the longer the setting sun can shine on the underside of it, changing slowly from gold, to orange, to red." ~ Kyle Brittain The Weather Network

Now you know.

2. Waterton National Park

If this is your first road trip to Alberta and BC, take the opportunity to visit Waterton National Park, one of the best national parks in Alberta. Everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime.

The park borders Glacier National Park in the United States. Waterton Park is a small hamlet nestled within the peaks of the Rocky Mountains in southwestern Alberta.

Tourists flock to the park year round to see and enjoy its beauty. You'll find activities from hiking, camping, kayaking, fishing, golfing, boat tours , wildlife sightings, walking along the lake, and strolling along the streets of Waterton.

Your visit won't be complete without stopping by Cameron Falls, Cameron Lake, and Red Rocks or hiking Bears Hump. Don't forget to stop at the iconic Prince of Wales hotel as well.

Reserve a campsite at the Waterton Park campgrounds

Check availability at the Prince of Wales Hotel

3. Lundbreck Falls, Alberta

Lundbreck Falls are the main feature of the Lundbreck Falls Provincial Recreation Area and Lundbreck Campground.

Lundbreck Falls are located near Pincher Creek in Southern Alberta. The rushing Crowsnest River plunges 39 feet to the canyon below creating a dramatic horse-shoe shaped waterfall.

You can book your stay at the Lundbreck Campground on your road trip to Alberta and BC or enjoy the day use facilities for a picnic lunch .

Don't forget to pack some snacks and Built Bar protein bars for your trip. Keep your group happy and not "hangry" (hungry and angry).

You can view the falls from an observation platform or follow a path for a short hike down to the falls. Be sure to bring along your camera.

Continue on past Lundbreck on Highway 3 into the Crowsnest Pass. You will come first to Frank Slide on your road trip to Alberta and BC touring the Canadian Rockies; between Bellevue and Sparwood, you'll pass into British Columbia.

4. Frank Slide

At 4:10 am on April 29, 1903 a massive rockslide thundered down Turtle Mountain and buried part of the mining town of Frank in Alberta's Crowsnest Pass. The slide was one of the largest rock slides in Canadian history and certainly the deadliest as more than 90 people were buried in the rubble and perished.

Scientists estimate that rocks were moving at a speed up to 70 mph (120 km/h).

At the time, approximately 600 people were living in the mining town.

The site of the slide remains largely unchanged even today. It has become a popular tourist spot and was designated a Provincial historic site. If you stop, be sure to add the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre as a waypoint on your road trip to Alberta and BC.

False stories spread around the world about a single baby girl, named “Frankie Slide” by her rescuers, who was the only survivor from the town of Frank following the slide...there were 3 young girls who survived the slide, plus 20 other people pulled alive from the rocks, along with the over 500 people from the townsite of Frank who were not touched by the slide at all. ~ frankslide.ca

5. Explore Kootenay National Park on a Road Trip to Alberta and BC

Kootenay ( pronounced Koo-tuh-nay ) was established as a national park in 1920 as part of an agreement between the Canadian government and British Columbia to build a new highway across the Rockies. In exchange, title would be given to a 5 mile (8 km) strip along either side of the almost 60 miles (94 km) of highway. The Banff-Windermere Highway was intended to be used solely for park purposes.

The 60-minute scenic route through Kootenay National Park features stunning vistas around every bend, icy mountain rivers, and steaming hot springs as you continue your road trip to Alberta and BC. But plan to spend the entire day exploring canyons and waterfalls or plan a backpacking trip along the park's numerous trails.

Whatever your adventure-seeking heart loves, you will find it in the heart of Kootenay National Park as you're touring the Canadian Rockies.

• River Rafting Trips
• Skiing and Other Winter Activities
• Ziplining Adventures

The official Parks Canada guided tour app is a must to accompany you along your road trip to Alberta and BC as you experience the history, sites, and sounds of the national park at your own pace. The app offers:

• GPS-activated guidance , history lessons, behind-the-scenes stories
• Alerts along the way for some of the best places to stop
• Location-specific history, photos, fun facts, and information
• Questions to challenge your knowledge, listening skills, and observation skills
• Experienced Parks Canada staff members offer insider information to Kootenay National park

Make this app your perfect travel companion during this part of your road trip to Alberta and BC.

If you happen to be closer to Whistler, BC, there are so many great hiking trails to explore there as well. How about a trip to Victoria, BC ? We had some fun adventures there too.

6. Sinclair Canyon in Kootenay National Park

Sinclair Canyon Pass provides a dramatic entrance into the national park. The road is busy but you'll find a number of pull out spots as you drive through the canyon. You don't even have to venture too far from your vehicle to enjoy magnificent scenery.

If you happen to hear music after stopping, it might just be a musician taking advantage of the amazing acoustics of this area of the canyon. That might be a first for any road trip you have been on, but definitely a highlight of your road trip to Alberta and BC.

If you are up for a short hike that is fairly easy, and under 2.0 miles in distance, check out the Sinclair Creek Trail on the AllTrails app .

Sinclair Creek features Sinclair Canyon Falls, a short waterfall that leads down into the valley.

There are a number of trails in this area, including the Juniper Loop Trail. Be prepared for your hike by being mindful of the 10 essentials for your best day hikes .

Only a short distance from the canyon entrance along Highway 93, you'll discover Radium Hot Springs.

7. Radium Hot Springs in B.C.

Does soaking in hot springs sounds delightful after a long day of driving on your road trip to Alberta and BC? If yes, then you will want to visit Radium Hot Springs in B.C. The pool is located less than 2 miles (3 km) northeast of the village of Radium Hot Springs on Hwy 93 in Kootenay National Park .

If you are passing by and think to yourself, "I wish I had thought to pack a swimsuit and towel for my road trip to Alberta and BC...", not to worry, you can rent both at the front desk.

Note * If you are only planning to soak in the hot springs, you do not need a national park pass. If you are planning to continue on through the park after your relaxing soak, then you can purchase a park pass at the Radium Visitors Center or at the Park Gate.

Radium Hot Springs is surrounded by a magnificent rock face. Not only is it a favorite stop for travelers in the summer time but in the winter as well. Radium Hot Springs in B.C. is open year round.

The temperature in the hot pool ranges from 37 to 40 degrees Celsius (that's 98 to 104 Fahrenheit).

8. Dog Lake in Kootenay National Park

If you follow the recommendations of the Parks Canada Guided Tour App on your smart phone, you will be directed to stop for a hike to Dog Lake as you come to the McLeod Meadows picnic area and campground on the Banff-Windemere Highway (Hwy 93).

You can't miss the signage.

The hike is only 1.6 miles (2.6 km) one way trip but offers some amazing scenery along the way during your road trip to Alberta and BC.

The river forks around a small island where you cross two bridges over the brilliantly blue turquoise Kootenay River. One of the bridges—a suspension bridge—sways with the wind...and enthusiastic children.

If you happen upon the lake on a perfect day, Dog Lake becomes a giant reflecting pool, highlighting the Mitchell mountain range.

9. Paint Pots in Kootenay National Park

Take a short hike through the forest to the Paint Pots during your road trip to Alberta and BC. The path meanders around creeks, rivers, marshy areas, and small lakes until you eventually reach orange-colored, mineral-rich ponds and streams. Historically, people used this orange-colored water and mud for painting.

If you visit during the Summer months, you won't have to worry about the muddy and often flooded pathways that are characteristic during the Spring and Fall months. If you do visit when the conditions are wetter, take note that your shoes and clothes may actually be stained —hence the term " paint" pots.

There is a sign at the beginning of the trail where someone has scratched in "Paint Pots" with an arrow. Follow that sign to view the Paint Pots. If you go in the other direction, you will head toward Marble Canyon. You may wish to plan to go there next along your road trip to Alberta and BC.

If you choose to hike to Marble Canyon from the Paint Pots, it is a 4.5 mile trail out and back.

10. Marble Canyon and Tokumm Creek Falls in Kootenay National Park

Don't let this scenic stop at Marble Canyon in the Kootenay National Park pass you by.

Park in the easily accessible parking area off of Highway 93 to hike through Marble Canyon as it follows the Tokumm Creek below to the Tokumm Creek Falls.

The rocks of the canyon area a glacial gray, but against the turquoise blue of the Tokumm Creek, the effect is stunning. Hike the easy to moderate path up to Tokumm Creek Falls following the trail which traverses over the gorge and Tokumm Creek far below a number of times. 

The sound of the falls thunders through the canyon and increases in volume as the gorge deepens and you near the falls. This is one stop along your road trip to Alberta and BC touring the Canadian Rockies that you just don't want to miss.

11. Lake Louise

You have made it to Lake Louise!

Lake Louise is a popular "bucket list" destination that is often teeming with tourists from around the world . You can't have a road trip to Alberta and BC without including Lake Louise!

In fact, Lake Louise, the crown jewel of Banff National Park, draws in millions of visitors every year.

The lake and its wildly blue, turquoise-colored water is fed by glacier melt and is surrounded by a hanging glacier and Mount Victoria. It makes for a stunning backdrop for your selfies and photos. (Just be mindful of others.)

Lake Louise can attribute its stunning blue color to glacier waters that are full of " rock flour ". This rock flour is made up of fine particle of rock that refracts the light.

Lake Louise is among the most Instagrammably beautiful lakes around the world .

As a year-round destination, outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy:

• rock climbing
• canoeing and kayaking
• mountaineering
• snowshoeing
• ice climbing
• ice skating

With the coolness of the Lake Louise weather, the lake is typically frozen over from November through May.

And, if you are in the mood for a polar plunge into the frigid glacier water, be sure to have towels handy. The lake is typically 39° F (4° C).

The Fairmont Chateau Hotel, looms above the lake, and if you aren't staying in the hotel, you may wish to venture inside for a look. You'll find a variety of shops to satisfy your touristy needs.

Want to book a stay at the Fairmont Chateau Hotel as an iconic and memorable stop on your road trip to Alberta and BC? Click the link above.

Note * Not only will you need your Parks Canada Pass for all of Banff National Park, but you will also need to pay for parking at Lake Louise from 7am-7pm between May and October. Pay stations are available with parking fees currently set at $21.00 per vehicle per day. Overnight parking at Lake Louise (when you are not a guest of the hotel) is not allowed.

In addition, the parking lot near the shores of Lake Louise is typically full by 7 am and remains full all day. Your best bet is to take the shuttle (see information below in the FAQs).

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Banff National Park is located in the heart of Alberta's Rocky Mountains. It is world-renowned and well-loved.

Banff townsite is located on the Bow River off of Highway 1 (or the Trans-Canada Highway) approximately 80 miles (127 km) west of Calgary. It claims the distinction of being the highest town in Canada.

If you are not taking a road trip to Alberta and BC and wish instead to fly to Canada, the nearest airport is in Calgary.

From downtown Banff, you have access to a myriad of activities:

• mountain biking
• visiting hot springs
• horseback riding
• superb dining
• shopping and souvenir hunting
• riding the gondola
• taking the Cave and Basin tour
• visiting museums and art galleries
• enjoying winter activities: skiing, snowshoeing, skating, tubing

If you choose to stay in Banff

13. Johnston Canyon Falls

The dramatic Johnston Canyon is a breathtaking natural attraction that rounds out the list of best things to see on a road trip to Alberta and BC.

The hike through Johnston Canyon may claim the distinction of the most popular hike in Canada!

You have the choice of hiking to the Lower Falls or the Upper Falls at Johnston Canyon. The Lower Falls are perfect for a wide range of ages and activity levels. Yes, you will find that it gets pretty busy.

Start your hike at the trailhead at the Lodge. The path is semi-paved and fenced as you hike along the canyon edge and through forest. Enjoy the scenery as you stop at viewing platforms and catwalks.

The Lower Falls are only a 20-minute walk where you can view thundering falls from a bridge or inside a small cave. Perfect if you only have a short amount of time to stop whilst touring the Canadian Rockies.

If you take the trail that leads up to the Upper Falls, you will begin to see the crowds decrease as you hike an additional 1 mile (2 km). It should take about 45 minutes. Along this trail, you will be rewarded with seeing SIX more falls.

Note * As of July 2021, vehicle access to Johnston Canyon is via the Castle Junction only. Check before you go.

Planning and Journaling Your Road Trip to Alberta and BC

There are many working pieces that go into planning a road trip. You will want to do research on where to stay, what to do, must-see sites, what to pack, and then put together a daily schedule.

Buy on Amazon

The Ultimate Travel Planner , a hardcover notebook and journal, has you covered for keeping track of all your destination research.

And while you travel, be sure to make notes in your Travel Journal of your day-to-day activities. This road trip to Alberta and BC will be one you want to remember.

Entering Canada for a Road Trip to Alberta and BC

If you are coming by car from the United States for your road trip to Alberta and BC, you will enter Canada at a border crossing. The Sweetgrass-Coutts border crossing is the busiest in the Province of Alberta; however, there are many other options available.

If you are driving through Glacier National Park in the United States, you will enter Canada close to Waterton Park (see below) at the Chief Mountain Border Crossing .

All members of your travel group should have a valid passport.

Are you interested in extending your road trip to Eastern Canada ? There are so many great hikes, road trips destinations, and places to explore.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i schedule the parks canada shuttle.

The easy and stress-free way to see both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in one day!  Reserve your shuttle ticket online  and park your vehicle at the Park and Ride, located at the Lake Louise Ski Resort. Click  here  for directions.

Can I drive my personal vehicle to Moraine Lake still?

New in 2023, Moraine Lake Road is now closed to personal vehicles year round. Be sure to schedule the shuttle using the link above.

When is the Best Time to Go on a Road Trip to Alberta and BC?

If you have ever taken a road trip to Alberta or BC, you know that the best time to visit is during the summer months from June to August. And even then, it has been known to snow!

You will want to drive during the summer months because as you drive further north on you road to trip to Alberta and BC, the temperatures become cooler. Lake Louise weather can be iffy somedays. Be sure to plan for any type of weather.

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Best Things to See on a Road Trip to Alberta and BC

Final Thoughts on An Amazing Road Trip to Alberta and BC: Touring the Canadian Rockies [2023]

Doesn't this just sound like a fantastic trip? No doubt you will be exhausted by the time it is done, but you will also have seen some of the most beautiful country in the world. Your road trip to Alberta and BC will be the highlight of your summer!

And if you are lucky, you can also add some caribou, deer, elk, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and even bear sightings to your list of amazing things that you got to see touring the Canadian Rockies.

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