tours from calgary to banff and jasper

The Ultimate 7-Day Calgary to Jasper Road Trip

Are you planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies and looking for the best 7-day Calgary-Banff-Jasper itinerary?

Over these past years, our family has enjoyed exploring Alberta and the Canadian Rockies. As such, we’ve been to Banff or Jasper at least once a month (when it wasn’t -30 outside).

To help other traveling families, I’ve created the ultimate 7-day Calgary to Jasper road trip itinerary for families traveling with kids. In this guide, you’ll get a daily playbook for exploring 3 of western Canada’s prettiest cities. You’ll have an epic detailed Banff and Jasper itinerary for 7 days.

So, if you’re planning a road trip from Calgary to Jasper this year, we have the perfect 7-day itinerary for you. Let’s dive straight into the detailed itinerary.

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you .

Calgary, Banff, Jasper Itinerary (7 Days) RECAP

• Day 1: Enjoy Calgary
• Day 2: Drive to Jasper
• Day 3: Jasper
• Day 4: Jasper
• Day 5: Jasper to Banff
• Day 6: Banff
• Day 7: Banff and drive back to Calgary

Day 1: Arrive in Calgary

The first day you reach Calgary, you’ll probably want to relax and check into your hotel.

If you were flying, you’d arrive at Calgary International Airport, a 20-minute drive from downtown Calgary. You can rent a car or a campervan directly from the Calgary airport. Or you can wait downtown. Make sure to reserve your car in advance by comparing options on DiscoverCars.com .

🛏️ Where to stay in Calgary There are many hotel options near the airport . We love the Element Calgary Airport Hotel . It offers hotel rooms with a full kitchen . There is a pool and the breakfast is delicious . But you can try to find a family-friendly hotel directly downtown, such as the Westin Calgary . Then, you can park your car and explore the city by foot.

It will all depend on where you’re coming from, but we always recommend easing into a city rather than trying to cram everything into the first day. This is especially true if you’re traveling with kids , making things even more exhausting for everyone.

There are three activities that we highly suggest for your first day in Calgary with kids if you only have a few hours(depending on the weather):

• Take the C-Train Downtown:  One of the things that Emilie and I did in Calgary was take the kids on the C-Train. You can ride for free between City Hall and 7th Street. There are tons of shops and places to stop along the way.
• Head to Prince Island Park:  If the weather is nice, take a short walk and head to the park. This is a fun little island on the Bow River that’s the perfect place to bring a picnic and let the kids burn off some energy.
• Head over to the Calgary Tower (that big building resembling Seattle’s Space Needle). It’s $18/person for adults, $9 per child aged 4-12, and free for kids 3 and under. We haven’t done this yet , but we’ve heard fantastic things about the experience.

💡 PRO-TIP: If you arrive early in the day and have a full day to spare in Calgary, I highly recommend visiting the Calgary Zoo or Heritage Park Calgary Zoo . The Calgary Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals worldwide, including rare and endangered species. The zoo is divided into thematic zones, such as the Canadian Wilds, Destination Africa, and the Panda Passage , allowing families to embark on a global wildlife adventure without leaving Calgary. With interactive exhibits, playgrounds, and seasonal events like ZooLights in the winter, the Calgary Zoo provides endless animal encounters and learning opportunities. Heritage Park . Heritage Park is a big living history museum. The park offers a rich tapestry of past and present with lots of exhibits and attractions. There’s something for everyone, from historic buildings and antique steam trains to beautiful gardens and a replica 19th-century village. Interactive activities and educational programs make it engaging for kids, while adults will appreciate the attention to historical detail. Bowness Park. Finally, you can grab some ice cream or dinner and walk through Bowness Park. There’s a small pool, a playground, and walking trails by the river. Depending on the time of year, that swimming pool can be an excellent way for the kids to cool off. Have an extra day? Why not head to Drumheller, the dinosaur capital of the world? We’ve spent a few days in that area, and there are LOADS of things for kids to explore. For more information,  check out this helpful post .

Day 2: Drive from Calgary to Banff to Jasper

You’ll want to wake up early and drive from Calgary to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway .

I suggest you download the Canadian Rockies audio tour offered by GuideAlong . It’s a fun way to learn about the region while driving.

A little after Canmore will be the entrance of Banff National Park. The Park Canada pass is required for your stay in the Canadian Rockies , including Banff and Jasper National Parks.

The Icefields Parkway is a 232-kilometer drive (officially Alberta Highway 93) between Lake Louise and Jasper. If you don’t stop, it takes about 4:30 to drive from Calgary to Jasper. But you’ll make at least 100 stops, so plan for the entire day.

💡 PRO-TIP: I always recommend families start their Calgary-Banff-Jasper trip with Jasper, not Banff. The drive from Lake Louise to Jasper is unpredictable, especially if you’re visiting others the summertime. Also, remember that it can still snow in the summer up there, so you’ll want to check the weather reports. The road is well maintained year-round , but there are snowstorms and risks of avalanches. It’s not unusual for the road to be closed for a day, so if you start with that, you’ll have more flexibility and days to reschedule if the weather is really bad.

On your way to Jasper, I recommend doing the following stops (you’ll do the rest on your way back from Jasper to Banff)

• Bow Lake: Enjoy the lakeshore. You can walk by the lakeshore.
• Peyto Lake: A short 2.4-km (1.5-mile) trail will bring you to Peyto Lake, where you can have a breathtaking view of the lake. Can you see the wolf’s shape?
• Saskatchewan River Crossing
• Tangle Fall
• Columbia Icefield and the Athabasca Glacier: If you have the energy, do the Wilcox Pass trail up to the first viewpoint. You’ll have a fantastic view of the Glacier. Plus, you can take some pictures with the famous Parks Canada red chairs.
• BONUS: Columbia Icefield Skywalk

At the end, you’ll arrive in Jasper, where you can walk around and explore the downtown area.

🛏️ Where to stay in Jasper There are many options when it comes to lodging in Jasper National Park. It will depend on the time of year you’re visiting, your budget, and the amenities you want. If you’re traveling with kids, we recommend Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge , Chateau Jasper , HI Jasper (you can read our review here )

Day 3: Jasper National Park

Jasper is a laid-back town with lots of nature to explore .

There are, of course, tons of outdoor activities to do. This is how I recommend you spend your first full day in Jasper.

Start your day with a hike at Maligne Canyon. It’s a 3.7-km (2.3-miles) loop in one of the deepest canyons in the Canadian Rockies . This trail captivates with its stunning limestone walls, waterfalls, and bridges. The trail offers spectacular views of the geological formations and river below.

Then, drive on the Maligne Canyon drive toward Maligne Lake. You’ll want to stop at the mysterious Medicine Lake before arriving at Maligne Lake.

Did You Know? Medicine Lake water levels change throughout the year. The family will enjoy learning about the underground cave system that causes this natural phenomenon. In the summer, it looks like a typical alpine lake, but in the fall and the winter, the water slowly disappears , leaving not much more than mudflat.

If time allows, you can go on a 90-minute Maligne Lake cruise . It will bring you further on the lake to Spirit Island, where you’ll have time to walk around and enjoy the views. We did it once and we really enjoyed the experience. The boat ride is the only way to see Spirit Island with kids (otherwise you have to kayak to the island, which is too much for little ones)

You’ll want to spend the rest of your afternoon at Edith Lake and Annette Lake . It’s the perfect place to play in the sand, paddleboard, or enjoy the water. There are also a lot of charcoal BBQs for an outdoor dinner.

Then, you’ll end your day with an evening at the Jasper Planetarium .

Jasper National Park is one of the largest and most accessible dark sky preserves. The  Jasper Planetarium is the perfect stop to learn about astronomy and see what the sky looks like in different places in the park.  You’ll learn about the cosmos in the immersive dome theater and outside exhibit. The tickets include the dome theater and the telescope tour.

Day 4: Jasper National Park

On your second day in Jasper, you’ll start with a ride on the SkyTram . It’s a gondola, similar to the Banff Gondola (but a little cheaper!).

The first ride is at 9:00 a.m. in the summertime or 10:00 a.m. in the shoulder season. Note that it’s closed in the wintertime . Take your time at the top of the mountain.  It offers panoramic views over Jasper’s mountainous landscapes.  You’ll see the Athabasca River, Edith Lake, and Annette Lake. You’ll even see some of British Columbia’s mountain peaks on a clear day .

Take some time to walk on one of the trails at the summit. I recommend the Whistlers Summit Trail.

In the afternoon, you’ll want to hike the Old Fort Point trail . It’s a This  3.8-kilometer loop trail   with abundant wildlife and some of the most stunning views in the park.

End your day with a stroll in downtown Jasper. You can also eat at one of the restaurants in downtown.

While there are fancier options, we went to Smitty’s, a family-friendly chain. With young kids, we have no reason to pretend like we’re fancy. The Jasper Pizza Place is another great option for families. Plus, it has a cool rooftop terrace.

Day 5: Drive from Jasper to Banff

It’s time to drive back to Banff National Park. You’ll be driving again on the Icefields Parkway. I recommend you make the few stops you didn’t have time to do on the way from Banff to Jasper, including:

• Athabasca Falls
• Sunwapta Falls
• Goats and Glacier
• And so much more

If you wake up early enough, you can even do the beautiful V alley of Five Lakes hiking trail .

After driving the Icefields Parkway back to Banff National Park, make your way to Lake Louise . Please don’t just go see the lake, take a few pictures and head back. Take some time to enjoy the area.

Depending on your energy level, I recommend you do one of the following hikes :

• Lake Louise Lakefront Trail : 4.5 km (2.8 miles) out-and-back
• Lake Agnes Trail : 7.4 km (4.6 miles) out-and-back

When you’re ready, drive to downtown Banff and enjoy the evening with some shopping and dinner. The kids will also love playing at Central Park’s playground. You can walk along the Bow River as well.

Banff Town is catered to shopping and restaurants, which can be a lot of fun with kids. Banff Avenue is the main street and it’s where you’ll find most stores, restaurants and a lot of hotels. You’ll want to stop at the famous candy store for a few treats for the kids.

🛏️ Where to Stay in Banff National Park? There are many options when it comes to lodging in Banff. It will depend on the time of year you’re visiting, your budget, and the amenities you want. If you’re traveling with kids, we recommend: Banff Rocky Mountain Resort , Moose Hotel & Suites , Fairmont Banff Spring  (if you have the budget for it). If you’d like to stay closer to Lake Louise,  Baker Creek Mountain Resort . You can read our hotel review here .

Day 6: Banff National Park

Now you have a full day in Banff, why not get back into nature (what Banff is famous for)? There is so much to do in Banff that it can be really hard to choose.

Banff National Park is filled with day hikes , from easy to hard hiking trails. Most hikes are also open all year round, even in the wintertime . There are hiking trails for all levels.

Start your day early at Moraine Lake. You’ll need to book your shuttle to Moraine Lake early in the year to get a spot. When you’re at the lake, I recommend walking up on the Rockpile Trail to have an amazing view of the lake.

Then, take the scenic Bow Valley Parkway and stop at Johnston Canyon. It’s one of the most popular hikes in Banff National Park. If you can, I highly recommend hiking to the Upper Falls. It’s beautiful.

In the late afternoon, head to Cave and Bassin National Historic Site. It’s where it all started. If you can, go on a guided tour. You’ll learn so much.

You’ll want to end your late evening with a sunset picnic dinner at Vermillion Lakes. If you have paddleboards, it’s a great place to go for a paddleboarding adventure.

Pro Tip: Bring a can of bear spray with you… just in case. Bears aren’t known for being aggressive in the area, but it wouldn’t be unheard of if you saw one. We recently met with a friend who stumbled on a bear near Lake Louise within his first 5 minutes of exploring the region.

Day 7: Last Day in Banff and Drive Back from Banff to Calgary

Now you’re on the last day of our Calgary, Banff, & Jasper itinerary. To get back to Calgary, you’re looking at around 1.5 hours, depending on the road conditions. So depending on when your flight back is you may have some time to discover a few more places.

Start your last day walking around the Cascade of Time garden. It’s located at the end of Main Street after crossing the bridge over the Bow River.

We can then, go see the Bow Falls. It’s a quick walk where you’ll have a beautiful view of the Bow Falls. If you walk up the stairs along the river, you’ll also have a breathtaking view of the Fairmont Banff Spring Hotel.

Then, slowly make your way back to Calgary with a stop in Canmore for lunch. I highly recommend a lunch at Rocky Mountain Bagel Co. You can then walk around downtown Canmore and walk on the Policeman’s boardwalk.

When you’re ready, drive back to Calgary to catch your return flight.

Don’t Forget for your Calgary, Banff, Jasper Itinerary

Make sure to pack lots of layers, even in the summer. The weather in the mountains changes a lot throughout the day. Plus, you’ll want to be dressed well when walking outside near the Columbia Icefield. It can get very cold throughout the year. Remember, you’re walking on a huge piece of ice.

F.A.Q Calgary to Jasper Itinerary

How far is banff from calgary.

Banff is only 143 km from the Calgary Airport or 128 km from downtown Calgary. You can plan on a 1h30 drive if you take the Trans-Canada highway .

How to travel to Banff from Calgary?

The best way to travel to Banff from Calgary is by renting a car at the Calgary Airport (or downtown). There are many shuttle services from Calgary airport , but without your own car, it will be limiting your Calgary to Jasper road trip.

How many days in Banff?

There is so much to do and see in Banff that you cold easily spend an entire week, but if you only have 7 days for a Calgary Banff Jasper itinerary, I recommend staying in Banff for 2 to 3 days .

How many days in Calgary and Banff?

If you only have 7 days to explore the Canadian Rockies, I would recommend staying in Calgary only 1 day, then 2 to 3 days in Banff and the rest in Jasper.

How many days to spend in Calgary?

There is many things to do in Calgary that you can make it a great weekend getaway. But if you only have 7 days in the Rockies, I highly recommend spending only a day in Calgary.

Final Thoughts: Calgary to Jasper Itinerary

And that’s all for now! This has been our 7-day Calgary, Banff, & Jasper itinerary.

The 7-day Calgary, Banff, and Jasper itinerary offers a perfect blend of city exploration and natural wonders . Starting in Calgary, you can ease into their adventure with family-friendly activities like visiting the Calgary Zoo or Heritage Park . The journey then leads to Jasper via the scenic Icefields Parkway, where you’ll stop at Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and the Columbia Icefield .

Jasper itself is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with highlights including Maligne Canyon and the Jasper Planetarium . The itinerary then takes you back to Banff, with a drive along the Icefields Parkway offering opportunities to visit Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls .

In Banff, you can enjoy hikes around Moraine Lake, explore Johnston Canyon, and visit the Cave and Basin National Historic Site . The trip concludes with a return to Calgary, allowing for a final exploration of the city’s attractions.

We hope you enjoyed this post.

Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

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7 Day Private Tour:

Best of the canadian rockies from calgary, one week of unforgettable sightseeing through banff, lake louise, and jasper.

Tour Category:

Private Multiday Tours

December to March | May to October

Destinations:

Calgary | Banff  |  Lake Louise |  Jasper

Tour Description:

From Calgary to Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper. This 7-day, 6-night sightseeing tour will take you to all of the must-see locations in the Canadian Rockies. From the plains of Calgary to the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, you will see the very best of Canada’s landscapes: mountains, lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls.

Best of the Canadian Rockies: 7 Day Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Calgary / Banff
• Day 2: Banff Tour
• Day 3: Banff to Lake Louise Tour
• Day 4: Lake Louise to Jasper Tour
• Day 5: Jasper Tour
• Day 6: Jasper to Calgary Transfer
• Day 7: Departure from Calgary

Arrival in Calgary and touring to Banff

To start your vacation, your private tour guide for the next week will pick you up from the location of your choice within Calgary whether it is the Calgary Airport, downtown, or the surrounding area. For those who are arriving on a flight, your guide will meet you in the arrivals section of the airport.

From Calgary, your adventure to the Canadian Rockies begins! The drive from Calgary to Banff takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours as the scenery outside of your private vehicle gradually changes from prairie landscapes, to foothills, to mountain peaks. Depending on the time that you arrive in Calgary and the preferences of your group, your guide would be happy to make stops to show you some of the sights along the way.

Your hotel in Banff for the next two nights is included.

Half-Day Private Tour: Banff Highlights and Banff Gondola

Today, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning for a half-day sightseeing tour of the town of Banff and its surrounding highlights. Visit Surprise Corner for the best views of Fairmont Banff Springs hotel, otherwise known as “The Castle in the Rockies”. See the towering mountains including Rundle, Tunnel, Cascade, and Norquay. Learn about the wind-shaped hoodoos, see Bow Falls, and experience a scenic drive along Tunnel Mountain Drive.

The highlight of today’s tour is a gentle ride on the Banff Gondola up to the top of Sulphur Mountain for fantastic views of the Bow Valley, interpretive boardwalks, and endless photo opportunities.

Upon completion of the tour, the rest of the afternoon in Banff is yours to spend how you wish. The exact timing of the day is up to you as it is a private tour but it is best to plan for a 2 to 3 PM end to the tour if you are making afternoon plans. Let your guide know where you would like to be dropped off in town.

Your hotel in Banff tonight is included.

For ideas on how to spend your free time in Banff, see below:

Full-Day Private Tour: Banff to Lake Louise Sightseeing Tour

Today, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning with your luggage for a full-day sightseeing tour of the area between Banff and Lake Louise. During this tour, you will travel along the Alberta and BC border, cross the Continental Divide, and explore more sights within Banff National Park and Yoho National Park.

From May to October , the tour will focus on the many mountain lakes, and waterfalls in the area which include key locations such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Emerald Lake, and Takakkaw Falls.

From December to March , the lakes will be frozen over and some of the mountain roads will be closed meaning that Moraine Lake and Takakkaw Falls are not accessible, however, there is still plenty to do and see! There are some great, optional, Canadian winter activities that can be included on this day. Let us know your preference for the following activities in advance of your trip:

• Ice Skating on Lake Louise
• Horsedrawn Sleigh Ride at Lake Louise
• Dogsledding in Banff National Park
• Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing at Emerald Lake

Your hotel for one night at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is included. This world-famous lake is known as the Jewel of the Canadian Rockies and is one of the most photographed locations in the world.

Full-Day Private Tour: Lake Louise to Jasper Sightseeing Tour

Today, your guide will pick you up from the Chateau Lake Louise in the morning with your luggage for a full-day sightseeing tour up the Icefields Parkway to Jasper. Known as one of the world’s most scenic drives, you don’t need to venture far from the main highway to see some spectacular sights.

From May to October , the tour will have many scenic photo stops along the route to Jasper including Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, Crowfoot Glacier, and Athabasca Falls. A stop at the Columbia Icefields will allow you to climb aboard an Ice Explorer—a specialized bus that travels directly onto the Athabasca Glacier. Further up the Parkway, take a walk on the Icefield Skywalk, a one-kilometer interpretive walk that leads to a suspended, glass platform that extends out over the valley below.

From December to March , the Icefields Parkway sees much less traffic and turns into a beautiful drive of solitude and wonder. The roadside stops feature endless views of snow-capped mountains and ancient glaciers that make it a true winter wonderland. During this time, we’ll stop in Lake Louise so that you can grab your lunches to go, with stops along the way at Bow Lake, the Athabasca Glacier, and Athabasca Falls.

Your hotel in Jasper for the next two nights is included.

Half-Day Private Tour: Jasper Wildlife & Maligne Canyon Icewalk

Today, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning for a half-day sightseeing tour of Jasper National Park. While touring through Jasper, you have a great chance of seeing all types of wildlife due to the remote location of this Rocky Mountain town. The first stop on the tour is the Maligne Canyon, where 10,000 years of erosion have created the deepest canyon in the Rockies. Start off with a short and easy walk, admiring the Maligne River and its many waterfalls as you cross back and forth across a series of bridges.

From May to October , you’ll make a stop at the disappearing Medicine Lake, followed by the fairytale-like Maligne Lake for a walk around the lake, or a boat cruise out to Spirit Island which is included from late May to early October depending on the ice melt.

From December to March , you’ll have the option to strap on some ice cleats and go for a walk through the Maligne Canyon where you can see the frozen waterfalls up close. For those feeling less adventurous, an itinerary focussed on wildlife viewing may be more suitable.

Upon completion of the tour, the rest of the afternoon in Jasper is yours to spend how you wish. The exact timing of the day is up to you as it is a private tour but it is best to plan for a 2 to 3 PM end to the tour if you are making afternoon plans. Let your guide know where you would like to be dropped off in town.

Your hotel in Jasper tonight is included.

For ideas on how to spend your free time in Jasper, see below:

Full-Day Private Transfer: Jasper to Calgary

Today, your guide will pick you up from your hotel in the morning with your luggage for a full-day transfer from Jasper back to Calgary. You’ll once again have the opportunity to see the Icefields Parkway, but from a different perspective. Traveling the Parkway from the South offers a better view of the lakes along the way, however, traveling from the North will give you better glacier views.

Upon arrival in Calgary, you will be dropped off at your Calgary downtown hotel to rest after a long drive and action-packed couple of days. It is time to say goodbye to your tour guide as your trip comes to an end with your last night free in Calgary.

Your hotel in Calgary for one night is included. *For those with an early morning flight the next day, a Calgary Airport hotel can also be substituted.

*Should you prefer to end your tour in Edmonton, this day can be modified to have a transfer from Jasper to Edmonton, with an Edmonton hotel.

Departure from Calgary

Your vacation concludes upon check out of the Calgary hotel.

Should you have a flight to catch from YYC, a complimentary private shuttle to the airport will be included from your hotel.

Should you have some free time before you depart from Calgary, see below for ideas on how to spend your free time in the city:

7 Day Private Tour: Sample Pricing for 2023 & 2024

Group of 6 people (3 rooms).

• +$714 Superior Hotel Upgrade
• +$2153 Deluxe Hotel Upgrade
• +$3205 Premium Hotel Upgrade

Pricing Details:

• Peak Season rates are for June through September – you’ll save more by traveling outside of those months
• Sample prices are per person(based on a group of 6 people) in Canadian Dollars and are subject to an additional 5% Canadian sales tax.
• Prices are based on double occupancy in hotels. For single, triple, or quad sharing, please request a quote.
• Base prices are based on the Popular Hotel category
• Prices are available for one to nine people traveling. Please request a quote to find out the exact pricing for your group.
• For groups or 10 or more people, please contact us for a custom itinerary.
• To qualify for any current  Specials , please  r equest a quote.

What's Included

• Private Tour Guide/Driver
• Private Vehicle (Up to 9 people with luggage)
• 6 Nights of Hotel Accommodations *(Hotel Level Selection Required)
• National Park Passes
• Private Transfer between Calgary & Banff
• Private Transfer between Jasper & Calgary
• Private Transfer between Calgary Hotel & Airport
• Private Half-Day Banff Tour (Banff Gondola – All Seasons)
• Private Banff to Lake Louise Tour (+Optional Activity – Dec to Mar only)
• Private Lake Louise to Jasper Tour (Glacier Adventure – May to Oct only)
• Private Half-Day Jasper Tour (Maligne Lake Cruise – May to Oct only)
• Luggage Handling

Not Included

• Flights in or out of Calgary
• Gratuities/tip for guide and hotel staff
• Canadian 5% sales tax

Popular Hotels

Our base level of hotels or “ Popular hotels ” typically include standard room types in major hotel chains such as Marriott, Delta, and Sheraton properties.

Superior Hotels

Our Superior level of hotels or “ Superior hotels ” provide you with upgraded rooms at Popular Hotels or base-level rooms at some of our 4-star properties.

Deluxe Hotels

Our Deluxe level of hotels or “ Deluxe hotels ” offer a guarantee of either a larger room or a spectacular view at one of the Superior Hotels, or at a 4.5-star hotel.

Premium Hotels

Our high-end hotel options, or “ Premium hotels ” include the Gold Floor at all Fairmont hotels where available, otherwise known as the Grand Railway Hotels.

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More tour options.

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4 Day Private Tour: Banff Weekend Getaway from Calgary

From Calgary to Banff. This quick 4-day, 3-night sightseeing tour will take you to all of the must-see highlights in Banff National Park. From Calgary to the Rocky Mountains, you will see the very best of the Canadian Rockies' most popular mountain town.

From Calgary to Banff and Lake Louise. This 6-day, 5-night sightseeing tour will take you to all of the must-see highlights in Banff National Park. From the plains of Calgary to the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, you will see the very best of Canada’s landscapes: mountains, lakes, and waterfalls.

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An Epic Canadian Rockies Itinerary: From Calgary to Jasper and Beyond

last Updated: December 17, 2023 banff canada jasper road trip

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Canada and stoked to make the adventurous trek from Calgary to Jasper? Trust me – there’s a reason I keep heading back! Read on for practical travel planning tips, how to structure your itinerary, and the best spots to see along the way! This is the only Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary you’ll need to read! 

If you’re planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies, you’re in for a real treat. The whole area is full of jewel-toned glacial lakes, cascading waterfalls, majestic mountainous terrain, and jagged snow-covered peaks. Picture perfect postcard views everywhere you look.

And that includes wildlife on the side of the road, such as bighorn sheep, moose, elk, mountain goats, and the occasional bear (yes, I just said bear)!

pin for later:

This road trip through the Canadian Rockies was one of the most impressive drives of my life, and I’ve been on my fair share of road trips over the years ( Iceland , Norway , California , Hawaii , etc, I’m looking at you). I found the gorgeous Canadian province of Alberta to be just so special that I did this trip, not once, not twice, but three times (twice in summer and once in winter ). 

Read Next: The Best 3 Days in Banff Itinerary (all my favorite activities and lakes to see!)

When to take this Canadian Rockies road trip:

The scenery’s stunning year round, but frigid winter conditions mean some activities are closed. As noted above, I’ve visited in both seasons and loved both just as equally (for different reasons of course).

Summer: While the most crowded (and therefore expensive), if this is your first time to the area, I highly suggest you plan your Canadian Rockies itinerary during the pleasant summer months.

Not only will the lakes show off their distinctive gleaming turquoise colors, but you’ll be greeted with very, very long days! The sun doesn’t set until almost 10pm in the peak of summer over here, meaning lots of time for explorations!

Do note that the weather in the Canadian Rockies is quite temperamental, so you’ll want to pack along a light jacket for the cool mornings and chilly evenings.

Spring/Fall: The Canadian Rockies see over 4 million visitors a year, and I bet at least 75% visit from June-August. With that being said, a visit in late Spring or the fall may be your best bet if you’re not a fan of the masses.

Do note that many lakes don’t fully thaw until late June, so expect icy bits in the spring, with possible snowfall as early as late September/October! Bring a bunch of different clothes, check the weather forecasts before your trip, and you’ll be fine!

Winter : If you’re planning to visit the Candian Rockies in the frigid winter months, head on over to THIS POST for lots of pre-planning info. I visited Banff and the surrounding areas in February, and most definitely learned a lot!

Let’s just say I was way colder than expected, despite packing layers upon layers for the snow and below 0 temps. But frolicking in a permanent snow globe is one of my favorite things, so can’t be mad about that!

How long should this Canadian Rockies itinerary take?

I’ve driven from Calgary to Jasper and then back to Calgary in as little as 5 days, and lemme tell you, we felt ridiculously rushed. Thankfully I had already been to the area numerous times before, so I didn’t feel upset missing out on a few things.

If this is your first time to the area (and you have no clue when you’ll be back), I’d highly suggest carving out at least a week to drive from Calgary to Jasper, if not even a few days longer. The Banff itinerary I have provided here covers 9 full days, which you can shorten to 7 if need be. 

If you have way less time, don’t fret — you can still see tons with only 3 days in Banff (I’d stick to Banff and the surrounding areas, save Jasper for another time).

Do note that I don’t typically include long day (or multi-day) hikes into my travel plans. They just aren’t my thing (while I’d love to say I’m an avid hiker, my legs give out after a few miles). If you’re planning to spend a few days hiking and want to see the bulk of activities on this Canadian Rockies itinerary as well, I’d add a few extra days to this pre-planned week-long itinerary.

Calgary to Jasper Itinerary Overview

Rough Route: Calgary (1 night) → Banff (2 nights) → Lake Louise (2 nights) → Icefields Parkway → Jasper (2 nights) → Calgary/Edmonton (1-2 nights)

Do note that you can choose to drive roundtrip (essentially backtracking back to Banff and Calgary once you’re done exploring Jasper), or you can end in Edmonton which is a tad closer than driving back to Calgary. 

In addition, I’ve planned this Canadian Rockies itinerary from Calgary to Jasper (as that’s likely where most people will start from), but do know that you can actually start in Edmonton and do the entire route in reverse.

I typically find cheaper airfare going to/from Calgary, but depending on where you’re home airport is, you might as well check both (Calgary as well as Edmonton).

Reverse Route: EDMONTON → JASPER → LAKE LOUISE → BANFF → CALGARY

How to Get to the Canadian Rockies?

If you’re coming from the US, getting to the Canadian Rockies is quite simple. You can easily hop on a flight to Calgary (YYC), then make the short drive to your first stop of either Canmore or Banff in roughly an hour and a bit.

For reference, from my home airport of San Francisco (SFO), the flight takes roughly 3 hours, while flights from other parts of the country will obviously be longer due to longer distances traveled.

Check out my post on Banff in winter for lots of driving tips should you be planning your visit during the icy snowy months.

Renting a Car:

Renting a car in Calgary is pretty straight forward, as there are numerous car rental agencies both at the airport and right outside. We typically book here and find great deals → for this particular trip, we saved over $100!

For the lowest price, make sure to only input the times you actually need the car, and consider renting from a company not within the airport itself (we took a free shuttle to an outside company to get our car).

Do note that many (if not all) car rental agencies in Calgary will ask for proof of insurance upon pick up. Be prepared to show your own, or pay up at the counter for over priced insurance through the rental company. If you’ve got a travel rewards credit card (like my favorite, the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve), it most likely includes car rental insurance – but of course confirm beforehand.

→ Find the cheapest car rentals over here.

Accommodation Options in the Canadian Rockies:

Ohhh, if you’re traveling during the popular summer months of June through September, you’ll NEED to book accommodation at least 2-3 months in advance. You may have some luck with last-minute bookings in May or October, but don’t count on it. And thankfully, there are lots of hotel options along the way from Calgary to Jasper, with all different budgets in mind.

When we were finally ready to finalize accommodation in Banff and Jasper, a lot had already been sold out and we didn’t have many hotels to choose from. Plan (and book) early to get the greatest flexibility when it comes to accommodation, in terms of budget and location.

Here’s where I’ve stayed on my numerous trips, and where I wish I could have stayed:

Calgary : 

Hyatt Place Calgary Airport

We wanted some place close to the airport since our flight was leaving early the next morning. It was your typical Hyatt – very clean, staff very friendly, and free breakfast buffet, at an affordable rate. Would recommend if your travel plans see a relatively early flight like ours did! We ubered into town and I don’t remember it costing much.

Find more hotel options in Calgary here.

Banff : 

Samesun Backpackers Banff 

I’ve stayed here twice so far, and have to say, it’s not terrible at all. If you’re looking for cheapie-won’t-break-the-bank accommodation options, Samesun is it. Located a few minutes from the center of town, with a fun bar environment, daily local activities, and helpful staff.

Irwin’s Mountain Inn

Honestly, nothing too special about this place, but it was one of the lower cost options in Banff Town and had free parking. Once we were ready to book hotels, most were either sold out or waaaaay outta our price range ($300+/night). Irwin’s was affordable and in a good location. Check out their sister property, The Rundlestone Lodge as well.

Fairmont Banff Springs

My dream finally came true and I stayed at the Fairmont Banff Springs during my visit to Banff in November . I mean, it’s a castle, y’all! What’s not to love?! During my first winter visit to Banff (in February) I had the pleasure of taking a dip at the Willow Stream Spa (located within the hotel), and if that’s any indication of the level of class of the hotel, you know I’m there.

Find more hotel options in Banff here.

Lake Louise: 

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Soooo, I’ve never technically stayed in Lake Louise (I always base myself out of Banff), but next time I visit, I’m making it a top priority to stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. I mean, it is technically a castle afterall.  And it’s located directly on the lake… what’s not to love?! Hold me to it!

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

If you haven’t figured it out by now, the Fairmont wins in Jasper as well, being the most popular place to stay in the National Park. It’s an upscale, rustic retreat, with not only a spa and suites, but golf courses as well. 

Tonquin Inn Jasper

Since we booked unfathomably late (and by that I mean a month ahead of time), the only accommodation I could find available was at the Tonquin Inn, which ended up being a perfectly fine place for a few nights.

Other options include The Astoria Hotel (lodging with lots of character and charm), Whistler’s Inn (surrounded by mountains), and HI Jasper (hostel just a short walk from downtown). 

Find more hotel options in Jasper here.

Getting a National Parks Pass:

Yes, Banff is a National Park (I don’t know if everyone realizes that), and yes, you need to pay to get in (even if you’re staying in the nearby town of Canmore). 

When visiting the Rocky Mountain National Parks, (which you’ll do quite often on this road trip from Calgary to Jasper), you’ll need a valid parks pass to enter any of them, including Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, or Yoho National Park.

The cost of entry into the National Parks is determined by how many days you’ll be in the parks, as well as how many people are in the car. For example, the cost of a day pass is $9.80CAD, meaning if you’re in the parks for 4 days, it’ll be $39.20CAD per person.

However, if you’ve got more than 2 people in your vehicle, there are savings to be made (a pass for 2 people vs 7 people is the same price). So gather up all your travel besties and maybe rent a van? :p

Depending on how long you’re visiting the parks for, how many people you’re traveling with, and if you’re pretty sure you’ll be returning within the year, it may make sense to purchase an annual Discovery Pass for $136CAD. This website will recommend the best value option for your group. 

In addition, be sure to purchase passes ahead of time so you don’t waste precious minutes waiting for them upon arrival, as the lines can get mighty long (especially in the popular summer months).

An important note on wildlife:

You’re in the wilderness out here → expect to see some wildlife. Always carry bear spray with you and always go hiking in groups (at least 2 people). Always be alert for wildlife, as they may surprise you, especially while hiking (always stay on the trails) and even while driving around the parks. 

Be sure to educate yourself before you do run into wildlife, and always keep a safe distance. NEVER attempt to pet/feed/chase/touch any animal, no matter how harmless or cute or docile they may look. And never step out of your car when bears are present, promise me that. Photos are great – but never at the expense of your life.

Remember, bears are living creatures, and can/will attack when threatened. Keep your distance and if you feel the need for better photos, bring along a zoom lens and crack open the window (when safe).

On my few visits to the Canadian Rockies I’ve seen bighorn sheep, a bunch of black bears, elk, and even a few grizzlys. With just a few days in the area, you’re bound to see some wildlife. Be on the lookout and stay safe. And don’t go out of your vehicle when bears are present – just don’t do it! I can’t stress that last point enough!

What to Pack

When you visit really determines what you’ll need to bring, but you’ll always need: bug spray, bear spray (yes, bear spray), binoculars, a raincoat (yes, even in summer), sunscreen (yes, even in winter), hiking layers, a camera, and reusable water bottle.

→ Psst – check out this (very) in-depth road trip packing guide to ensure you don’t forget anything!

Driving times from Calgary to Jasper:

The entire drive from Calgary → Canmore → Banff → Lake Louise → Jasper is roughly 5 hours. Just remember you’ll need to drive back to Calgary if you’re flying home outta there (another ~5 hours), or to Edmonton if you choose two, one way flights (~3 hours, 45 minutes).

While the drives aren’t necessarily super long, you’ll probably wanna stop every 15 minutes or so to take photos along the way. Be sure to factor that into driving times if you’ve got pre-planned activities to get to. There are so many pull offs and lookout points along the highway, it’s hard to decide which ones to stop at. And if you unfortunately miss one, just keep going: they’ll be more soon.

Tips for a successful road trip from Calgary to Jasper and beyond:

1. Stock up on road trip snacks : Before making the drive, stop at a grocery store upon arrival in Calgary to pick up some non-perishables. Snacks will be significantly cheaper over here than in the nearby National Parks. We headed to a Walmart right near the airport for some honey wheat pretzels, kettle corn, chips, and even some goods for lunches – a loaf of olive bread and some salami.

You may want to bring along a packable cooler for some perishable stuff if you’ve got a family to feed. We didn’t feel the need to, but if you’ve got a big family/bunch of friends in your car, it may be worth it to keep some food items in there to reduce the cost of food in the National Parks.

2. Be aware of gas stations: Although there are plenty of gas stations in Calgary, there’s not as many along the road once you leave the city. There are a few in Banff, one in Lake Louise, one at the Saskatchewan Crossing, and a few in Jasper.

I’d suggest always having at least half a tank of gas while on the road traveling between Banff and Jasper, and plan to avoid using the Saskatchewan Crossing petrol station as it’s much more expensive. I like using the GasBuddy app to find stations and their prices, although Google Maps now has this function as well.

3. Be on the lookout for wildlife : As noted above, the Canadian Rockies are filled to the brim with wildlife, especially along the Bow Valley Parkway (highly recommended) and in the more rugged Jasper National Park. Stay safe and never exit your vehicle to get closer to animals. They’re called WILD animals for a reason!

And now, let’s get this Canadian Rockies road trip from Calgary to Jasper started!

Day 1: CALGARY

Let’s face it, this Canadian Rockies trip will most likely be starting in Calgary , so if you’ve got the time, may as well explore (at least for a little while!). We chose to get a move on it and started off driving directly to Banff, so you could totally leave Calgary towards the end of your trip (like we did) if you’re planning on driving round trip.

OR you can totally skip out on Calgary altogether (if you’d like the extra time in the mountains), but it’s such a vibrant little city it’d be a shame to miss it!

However, in order to save time (or if you just wanna tack on another city to your Canadian Rockies itinerary), you may want to fly back home out of Edmonton, which is slightly closer to Jasper than Calgary is. With that being said, choose to see Calgary before making your way to Banff if you’ve decided not to back track to Calgary after your week in the Canadian Rockies is over.

If you’ve only allotted one day in Calgary, pick and choose from the following attractions: Calgary Tower (for city vistas with a revolving restaurant), Calgary Zoo, Glenbow Museum (artworks and local history on display), Heritage Park Historical Village, Prince’s Island Park, Canada Olympic Park, RiverWalk (go for a stroll or bike ride), and walk over the Peace Bridge.

We only had time for a quick stroll and some food, and chose to eat at Native Tongues (my cucumber pineapple agua fresca was perfect on a warm, sunny day), and of course grab some cones at Village Ice Cream (wildly popular).

On our walk we checked out the Central Library (really interesting architecture) and saw the Calgary Tower from afar. I obviously need to get back to Canada and spend more time in Calgary.

Read Next: The Complete Guide to Calgary (my friend living in Calgary wrote this for me, so this guide is from a local and include lots of secret tips!)

Where to Stay in Calgary: As noted earlier, we opted to stay at the Hyatt Place Calgary Airport , but if you’re spending time in Calgary at the beginning of your trip, stay downtown! The Hotel Arts Kensington , Hotel Fairmont Palliser , and Aloft Hote l all look like great options!

Day 2: CANMORE

Depending on how much time you’ve got, I highly recommend making a short stop in Canmore Town, whether it be for a few quick hours or for the night. This picturesque mountain town is often overlooked by tourists, meaning it’s usually not as crowded as Banff (although it’s been getting more popular in recent years).

Canmore’s got much more of a local vibe, tons of craggy mountain views (it’s known for summits like the Three Sisters and Ha Ling Peak), and a bunch of turquoise blue lakes. 

P.S. If you’re hoping to take a helicopter tour of the Canadian Rockies (highly recommended, FYI), it’ll likely take off in Canmore (as did our dog sledding tour when we visited Banff in the winter ). 

Early Morning : Start the morning off by making the quick 1-hour drive from Calgary to Canmore. Sure, you could drive all the way to Banff today (it’s just another 30 minutes or so), but why not make a pit stop in another cute mountain town along the way?

At first, the drive from Calgary to Canmore will seem boring and lackluster, but once you get a bit closer to the Rockies, BAM, those mountains will be all you see. The scenery will drastically change the closer and closer you get to Canmore/Banff; you’ll quickly see what I mean after your first mountain peak view.

Mid-Morning/Afternoon: Start off your time in the Rockies with a BeaverTail in Canmore (essentially fried dough with a whole lotta sugar), and then pick and choose a few of these highlights of Canmore. 

Main Highlights of Canmore:

1. Helicopter ride over the Canadian Rockies: I loved this oh so much, I did it twice – once in the lush summer months, and once in the frigid winter temps. We flew over the Three Sisters mountain range, the Goat Mountain range, Spray Lakes, and oh so much more.

You may need to keep your itinerary quite flexible if you’re planning to head up in the skies during winter time, as difficult weather can unfortunately cancel many heli rides.

Visiting during the summer? There’s a much better chance you’ll encounter optimal helicopter ride weather! It’s from up there in the skies that you realize just how massive, awe-inspiring, and unbelievable the Rocky Mountains actually are. Super scenic, undeniably smooth, and somewhat thrilling. If you’re looking for a bucket list check, I highly recommend a heli ride over the mountains. 

2. Walk around the mountain town of Canmore: Sure, you’ll most likely be walking around Banff Town as well, but the town of Canmore has a slightly different vibe. Here in Canmore you’ll find more trendy boutique shops (instead of the tacky tourist shops in Banff), and more local dining options (instead of the chain restaurants found in Banff).

I like to grab a beaver tail and indulge while admiring the mountain views all around town. 

3. Meal at Communitea: If you happen to be hanging out in Canmore when hunger strikes, I highly recommend grabbing some food at Communitea (my favorite!). The second we stepped inside this vibrant cafe I totally understood all the hype – this place has a huuuge variety of hot teas (because tea’s always a good idea) and a great selection of health-related eats.

Note that they close around 6/7ish, so plan to eat an early dinner if you’re coming in on the later side of the day. Psst – not sure what to order? Get any of the buddha bowls or the pad thai – allll phenomenal choices.

4. Go for a hike: As there are so many hiking trails in Canmore, it’s hard to choose just one (lucky you if you have more time in the area!). The most popular ones include the Grassi Lakes Hike (a 4.3km hike full of stunning pristine mountain lake views), Quarry Lake Loop (a super short 1.2km walk around the lake), and the East End of Rundle Hike (a much more strenuous uphill 5.6km trek – a great leg burner)!

Where to Stay: Tonight, either finish the drive to Banff (roughly 30 minutes or so), and sleep/eat in Banff, or book a hotel in Canmore (for either just tonight or for the duration of your stay in Banff*).

*You can opt to stay in Canmore in order to save a bit on accommodation when touring Banff, but do note that it’s roughly 30 minutes away, and with summer traffic, you’re likely looking at longer drives. Decide for yourself if the cost savings are worth the potential extra driving.

Highly rated accommodation options in Canmore include: Malcolm Hotel , Basecamp Resorts Canmore , and the Solara Resort & Spa .

Days 3-4: BANFF NATIONAL PARK

Next up, Banff National Park; the real reason for this drive from Calgary to Jasper, am I right? Rocky mountain peaks, a picturesque (albeit crowded) mountain town, glistening glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife. Banff is quite possibly one of my favorite places in the entire world. And I’ve been lucky to visit some pretty epic destinations.

With two full days in Banff , you can easily see all the area’s highlights. If you’re planning on doing a longer hike or two, plan an extra day or so in the park. And remember to bring along some bear spray, sold at numerous shops in town (better to be safe than sorry!).

Technically , Banff National Park includes Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, but as they’re located a bit north, we’ll cover them in the next few days. No need to rush as long as you’ve got the time!

Grab a digital map of Banff National Park here .

Honestly, you can do the activities listed below on either day in any order, but the plan I wrote out below just makes sense geographically and crowd-wise (although expect crowds in summer regardless of when you visit). Best to start the day as early as possible!

Day 1 in Banff:

1. Sunshine Village Gondola at Banff Sunshine Meadows: Start the day at Banff Sunshine Meadows, a ski resort on the outskirts of town, known for its intense ski trails come winter and moderate hikes once ski season is over. This place is pretty jam-packed come winter, but you’ll find it relatively quiet in the hot, summer months.

We took the gondola up, and loved walking throughout the wildflowers. We almost decided to take a short hike to one of the lakes for closer views, but quickly decided against it once we heard there’d been a grizzly sighting near the path just the day before (and we had no bear spray with us!).

The view from the lookout point was satisfying enough – just check out that photo! And don’t be like us- be sure to bring along some bear spray if you’re planning a hike!

2. Banff Town Center: This town is the epitome of a true mountain town – with peaks dominating its skyline, chateau-style hotels, lots of souvenir shopping options, and tons of wildlife (yes, bear spray is much-needed over in these parts).

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Just walk up and down the side streets – you’ll find BeaverTails (don’t miss this iconic greasy treat), homemade fudge, ice cream, and possibly even a few deer! Just be aware you won’t be the only one going for a stroll – summer sees a swarm of visitors, so be prepared to dodge some crowds along the way.

Don’t miss out on the poutine, cheese (and chocolate) fondue, and my favorite breakfast/coffee spots – Whitebark Cafe, Wild Flour, and Good Earth Coffeehouse.

3. Banff Gondola: One of the most popular things to do around here is the Banff Gondola, a scenic cableway heading to the summit of Sulphur Mountain to reach its 360 degree rooftop observation deck.

From up here you’ll get panoramic views of the town of Banff, stunning Bow River, and the surrounding mountains. We were in such awe the entire time; pictures do not do this place justice (take my word for it).

We found the best views by walking a bit further along the path, on the Banff SkyWalk Vista Trail, where thankfully the crowd dispersed quite a bit. We even saw a few bighorn mountain sheep up here, casually strolling around and posing for photos. 

Do note that it’s kinda expensive to take the Banff Gondola, with prices currently around $55CAD. If you wanna slash the cost of that admission ticket, plan a 2 hour hike up the summit of Sulphur Mountain, and get the same views fo’ free!

This moderately-strenuous hike (6.8miles of a series of switchbacks) provides stunning views of Bow Valley almost the entire way, but it’s not for the faint of heart. On my first visit to Banff, I hiked up (wanting to save the cash for things like poutine and beaver tails), while I took the gondola the last two times.

Depending on what month you visit, the gondola and parking lot may be exceptionally crowded (especially in prime summer months). We had to park a bit aways away, but trust me- no matter the season, the gondola is one activity you don’t wanna miss (if you like nice views and all…).

We stayed for sunset and the golden hues on the mountains and surrounding trees left me speechless. 

Psst- it gets chilly up here! Expect the temps to drop quite a few degrees once you reach the top of the gondola (yes, in both winter and summer). Had I known that, I may not have worn a dress, as I got goosebumps quite quickly!

4. Banff Upper Hot Springs: Finish off the day with a relaxing soak in the hot springs (about 2 minutes away from the Banff gondola). I mean, what could be better than soaking in a warm bath with 63,537 of your closest friends? Nothing, as long as said bath is nestled in the Canadian Rocky Mountains with views of Mt. Rundle across the valley. 

I visited twice ( once in winter and the other in the heat of the summer), and have to say that the Upper Hot Springs are even more spectacular when the temps are below zero (and yes, your hair will freeze and turn gray – it happens to everyone, and returns back to its normal state quickly after leaving).

Be prepared to wait in line, as the hot springs are a popular attraction no matter the weather. Bring your own bathing suit if you aren’t keen on donning one of their 1950’s vibes bathing costumes (but do know this is an option if you decide you spontaneously need a dip).

Day 2 in Banff: 

1. Johnston Canyon Hike/Bow Valley Parkway: If rushing waterfalls, limestone cliffs, and turquoise pools get you going, plan a morning at Johnston Canyon. Note that the farther you venture, the more you’ll see. You can hike to the lower falls in 1 easy mile (roundtrip), upper falls in 3 miles (roundtrip and a bit more strenuous), and the ink pots in 6.5 miles (plan at least 3 hours for this roundtrip trek).

We managed to trek to the lower and upper falls in roughly 2 hours or so, and most definitely recommend this! The hike to the falls is relatively easy, partially on wooden/steel catwalks and paved roads. In winter, it’s covered in snow and a whole different spectacle. Think ice crystals and icicles at every turn; it’s like stepping into Narnia. 

You’ll want to get here early if visiting in summer (yes, we already established it’s busy, busy, busy this time of year), as the parking lot gets filled up quite early, as in we arrived at 9am and it was full (there’s extra parking down the road, don’tchu worry).

In order to get to Johnston Canyon you’ll be taking the Bow Valley Parkway (1A), which is known to be filled with wildlife – be sure to keep a close eye out for any animals on the road! 

2. Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake: Our first set of lakes in Banff – I mean, that’s a huge reason you’re coming to this region, right?! And PS – some even prefer these two lakes to Lake Louise (although I’m semi-obsessed with the latter).

The way the mountain reflects in the glacial water is absolutely mesmerizing, and luckily, there’s boats that can take you out on the lake! Be sure to book online in order to bypass the (possibly very-long) cue. It’s a favorite activity during the warm, summer months!

If you don’t have time for a boat ride, just stroll along the shore (minimal physical effort required). Wanna stretch your legs? There’s a great trail – be sure to watch out for the mountain goats and chipmunks! 

Visiting in the popular summer months? Consider taking the bus straight from Banff Town, as it can be exceptionally easy (and parking can get quite difficult due to crowds). Do note the lake will be frozen over if you’re visiting in the (beyond)-chilly winter months – still beautiful nonetheless.

3. Surprise Corner: You’re driving and driving along Tunnel Mountain Road, and then, BAM! There’s the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (and Sulphur Mountain) in the distance. You’ll only need a few minutes over here to check out the view, but boy, is the short drive worth it. There’s no sign here, so just follow your Google Maps and you’ll see it straight away.

4. Bow Falls Viewpoint: This scenic spot is so close to the town of Banff it’d be just plain old silly to skip it (a quick 5 minute drive or a lovely 20 minute walk if the weather’s nice). And get this – the waterfall has even been featured in several 1950’s films; remember Marilyn Monroe in River of No Return (yup, that’s Bow Falls!).

It’s peaceful with sounds of the soothing water (with the roar of the water over the falls as well); a great place to enjoy nature! Yes, most of Banff is just that, as the entire area’s full of scenic beauty. There’s benches and tables around the park, making it the perfect spot for a late afternoon picnic. Visiting in winter? → expect the falls to be frozen (only making them even more spectacular)!

Where to Stay in Banff: Thankfully, there are a great deal of hotels/motels/lodges in Banff Town to choose from – at all price points (ranging from a few bucks a night all the way to hundreds and hundreds). I’ve stayed in a few different spots in Banff, namely Irwin’s Mountain Inn (typical mountain lodge), Samesun Banff (hostel in a great location), and the Moose Hotel & Suites . 

Everyone raves and raves about the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel , and in all reality, what’s not to love? It’s a castle , after all. Next time I visit Banff, I’m staying here (even if I have to convince my travel partner it’s worth it). Do note that hotels in Banff get booked up waaaay in advance for the high summer season, so if you have a particular hotel in mind, be sure to plan ahead (like 5-6 months).

Days 5-6: TURQUOISE LAKES AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS 

When people think of Banff, the activities on today’s agenda are what they typically think of! Prepare your eyes for some of the bluest glacial water you’ve ever seen – I’ve been a few times and I’m still just as blown away as during my first visit.

FYI – you can switch around Days 5 and 6 if you’d like.

Just remember, if you’re visiting during the busy summer season, all three lakes will be exceptionally crowded. Plan to arrive as early as you possibly can, not only to dodge some crowds, but to ensure parking as well (the lots fill up fast).

You can easily visit all 3 lakes in 2 days, just understand with only 2 mornings for 2 lakes, you’ll definitely find lots of crowds at the 3rd.

My recommendation: do Moraine Lake first thing one morning (like, super early), and Emerald Lake the other. Plan to hang around Lake Louise both days, possibly kayaking around the lake one day, and going for a hike on the other. Plus, 2 afternoons at Lake Louise gives you better chances for that picture-perfect postcard weather. 

And if you’re suuuuper short on time, you can squeeze all three in during just one day! Plan to arrive at Moraine Lake around 5am, visit Lake Louise for the rest of the morning/early-afternoon, then spend the remainder of the day at Emerald Lake. It’ll be a long and crowded day, but worth it to see all three. 

Keep in mind that if you’re visiting Banff in the snowy winter months , these lakes will be frozen over. I enjoyed Lake Louise in the winter just as much as during the summer, although did not make it to Moraine Lake or Emerald Lake.

The road to Moraine Lake (Moraine Lake Road) actually closes from mid-October to mid-May (dates change slightly every year) due to avalanche risk, although snowshoeing and cross country skiing is available at Emerald Lake during the winter.

Find additional and up-to-date restrictions and road closures on the official Parks Canada website.  

Lake Louise

Get ready, because today is full of striking turquoise-colored lakes, snow-covered mountain tops, those famous red canoes, and loads and loads of people (face it, this is a sought after part of the world). You’d be downright silly to skip out on Lake Louise during your Canadian Rockies road trip.

Ohhhh Lake Louise. The crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies. I promise you, a stop over here will be one of your favorites on this Calgary to Jasper itinerary. She’s an absolute stunner, known for her chilly, turquoise waters with Victoria Glacier and soaring mountains overlooking the lake (with the beautiful Fairmont Lake Louise on her shoreline).

You’ll want to plan at least a few hours here, if not a whole day, as you’ll find yourself in awe at every corner and with enough activities to last quite a while. 

However (yes, of course there’s a however), the time of year you visit Lake Louise makes a hell of a difference. Note that the waters of Lake Louise do not fully thaw until late May or early June, so if you’re hoping to witness the lake in all her stunning turquoise glory, wait until mid-late summer for a visit to the Rockies.

April and May will bring more tranquility and solitude, but no one can promise those striking turquoise waters until July. And, as expected, the lake will be iced over in the freezing winter months, with part of the snow cleared for ice skating! 

You could easily spend multiple days at Lake Louise, taking in it’s sheer beauty and just admiring the Victoria Glacier in the distance. With two half days, you can most definitely get in the highlights below:

Main Highlights of Lake Louise:

Walk around the lake: Yes, Lake Louise is crowded beyond disbelief. However, if you stray from the area near the hotel, you’ll find much more peace and quiet.

Plan to walk around the lake on the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail (at least part-way), and you’ll encounter tons of milky-blue creeks and picturesque meltwater along this easy and super-scenic trail. Look back and you’ll even get great views of the grand Fairmont Lake Louise, which is a stunner in it’s own way.

Rent a famous red canoe : Many visitors want that iconic Canadian experience of paddling around the stunningly scenic turquoise lake (and yes, I was one of them). However, do note that renting a canoe is quite pricey, and will set you back around $125CAD per hour.

If you’re a guest of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise , you are eligible for a decent discount which definitely helps (cost would be $85CAD per hour).

It can get quite crowded, so if you have your heart set on paddling around, head to the boathouse first thing upon arrival – the other activities can wait. I rented a canoe with 2 friends (max 3 adults or 2 adults/2 small kids), which helped decrease cost per person quite a bit).

Wander around the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise : Even if you’re not staying at the stunning chateau, plan to spend a bit of time in and around the hotel. Elegance and sheer beauty at it’s best!

Admire the architecture. Make sure to stop by the terrace, as you’ll get fantastic views of the lake from here. And if you can’t bare to take your eyes off the lake, plan for lunch at the Lakeview Lounge (and ask for a window seat!). Afterwards, browse through the stores and grab some dessert at the cafe.

Go for a hike : Wanna see Lake Louise from above? What about burning off some of those BeaverTail-induced calories? There are numerous hikes to quaint mountain top tea houses above Lake Louise, including Lake Agnes Tea House (4.4miles/6.2km) with the additional extensions of Little/Big Beehive (+2/3 km), and the Plain of Six Glaciers (8miles/13km).

These have quite the view to effort ratio (meaning phenomenal views for only moderate activity). You’ll want to set aside a few hours for each of these hikes, and expect the tea houses to be fairly crowded in the summer months.

Moraine Lake 

Moraine Lake is by far the most picturesque of all the hotspots in the area (and many even call it more spectacular than Lake Louise, myself included). BUT it’s kinda a b*tch to visit (you heard that right).

You need to plan your timing right if you actually wanna see the lake in all its glory, since you need to visit very early in the morning (and I mean early). The parking lot gets filled up by 6-7am at the absolute latest (and, yes, I’m dead serious), meaning in order to ensure a spot, you’ll want to arrive no later than 5am. Yupppp, insane, right?!

There’s another way to visit without all the crowds, although it’ll still be a very early morning wake up call. Not many take advantage of this, but there are early bird buses departing from the overflow parking lot of Lake Louise right off the main road.

These buses will take you directly to Moraine Lake for just a few bucks (departing from 6-7:30ish, be sure to check the schedule in advance). This way, you don’t need to get there at 5am, and can easily park in a lot.

Really have a thing against early mornings (I hear ya). You can plan to take the shuttle bus from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake a bit later in the morning, but be sure to get your ticket as soon as you arrive (tickets were sold out once we finished exploring Lake Louise and wanted to head to Moraine Lake).

We thought we could casually walk up to the shuttle line and snag a ticket – no siree! For this option, plan to drive directly to Lake Louise, and you’ll see buses for Moraine Lake in the parking lot. Just remember, get your timed ticket as soon as you arrive!

Once you get to Moraine Lake, plan to climb up the large rock pile, as that’s where the famous lookout spot is located (and where these photos were taken). This view, the lake surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks, is actually one of the most photographed images of nature in the world. The world. Aka don’t snooze your alarm!

The hike only takes a few minutes (15 minutes tops), and despite what others say, the path is pretty well-marked and clear. I climbed up in Converse and was just fine.

You can also rent a kayak over here, but in my honest opinion, the most rewarding views are from up above. From up here, you’ll get to witness the snowy peaks of the mountains mirrored in the still turquoise waters below; it’s an absolutely mesmerizing sight. Promise me you won’t forget your camera.

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is actually located within Yoho National Park in nearby British Columbia, and is unfortunately overlooked by so many tourist s . Don’t be one of them! Make sure you include Emerald Lake into your Banff itinerary (once you see the photos you’ll see why).

Trust me, after seeing the glistening, emerald waters with the greenest pine trees reflecting in the water, you’ll never want to leave. It’s just that gorgeous. Be sure to take a walk around the perimeter of the lake, as you’ll find yourself away from the crowds with the place almost to yourselves.

This is another spot where you can rent a canoe, and thankfully it’s a tad bit cheaper than over at Lake Louise, although will still cost you a pretty penny (worth it, yes!).

You can also make a short stop at Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park, although we did not have time for this (we spent too much time gawking over the water of Emerald Lake – figures).

Where to Stay near Lake Louise: There are a few accommodation options in the Lake Louise area, although you could choose to spend an additional night in Banff instead. My top choice – stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise . Yes, it’s pricey, and yes, it can be crowded mid-day, but one look at it and you’ll be wishing you were staying there.

If you still wanna be right near the lake but not shell out crazy money, the Deer Lodge is a great option as well. In addition, Emerald Lake Lodge, a peaceful resort overlooking, you guessed it, Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, is a great choice as well if you wanna stay away from all the hustle and bustle (finally checked this off my bucket list when we visited Banff in November !).

Day 7: ICEFIELDS PARKWAY

Say goodbye to those stunning glacial lakes, because we’re continuing on with this Canadian Rockies road trip on the Icefields Parkway!

Head on up to Jasper National Park via the impressive Icefields Parkway (this wouldn’t be a very thorough Banff travel blog without mentioning this)! Whatever you do, you absolutely cannot miss this stunning drive.

It’s full of lush pine forests, jagged snow-covered peaks, and tons of wildlife spotting opportunities (bighorn sheep, mountain goats, moose, and bears are known to frequent the highway – watch out!), making it one of the world’s most spectacular driving routes.

This will be a very full, action packed drive, so plan to start early and be thankful for that extra light if you’re visiting in the summer. The entire drive should take roughly 3 hours from Lake Louise to Jasper (without stopping), so dedicate the whole day so you don’t feel super rushed.

Plan for some traffic in the busy summer months, and note that in some spots along the highway the speed reduces to a slow 50km/hr.

You’ll want to pack a picnic lunch (we had peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and a few snacks like pretzels, granola bars, etc) since there’s not many options for decent food along the road. Also – make sure to fill up your gas tank in Banff/Lake Louise, as there’s really only one gas station along the way, and the prices are exorbitant.

We did the following in one day and found it a great use of time:

Stop 1: Bow Lake

Driving northbound (coming from Banff/Lake Louise), Bow Lake will be the first stop you want to make along the Icefields Parkway. Known for its delicate glacial blues and fantastic reflections (and fewer crowds), it’s not one to miss. 

However, reflections and water color is highly dependent on the weather. The first time I visited the water was especially calm and serene, and I got the most gorgeous mountain reflections, but during the next visit there was some wind, resulting in small ripples forming in the water, with zero reflections. You’ll probably have the best luck with reflections in the early morning.

No matter the weather, look out for Bow Falls and Bow Glacier in the distance. Take some time to go for a walk along the shoreline, and check out the historical Num-Ti-Jah Lodge!

Psst – the lake is very easy to access as it’s right off the road, and parking is very convenient.

Stop 2: Peyto Lake

I’m sure you’ve seen photo after photo of this stunning glacial lake, as Peyto Lake is alllll over social media. You won’t wanna miss this lake, I can promise you that! It’s by far one of the best views in all of the Canadian Rockies in my opinion (with the water glistening against snow capped mountains and deep, green trees), and a wonderful way to spend a mid-morning. 

And no, it’s not filled with electric blue Gatorade, although it sure looks like it! The distinctive blue color is oh so real, and is due to rock flour particles from nearby glacial melt. Make sure to notice the shape of the lake – it actually looks like a wolf head! And ohhh, it’ll be crowded.

When inputting a location into your GPS, be sure to put in “Bow Summit”, as this is where the Peyto Lake overlook is. Do note that unlike Bow Lake which can be accessed right from the parking lot, you’ll need to take a short, 15 minute uphill hike from the lower parking lot to reach the Peyto Lake viewpoint. 

There is another parking lot (the upper parking lot), but this is reserved for tour buses and those with handicapped stickers, which is about a 2 minute walk to the overlook.

Be extra careful taking pictures here if you venture off the path (do so at your own discretion). I’ve read that there are additional (albeit unmarked) trails leading to a spot slightly lower than Bow Summit, where you can find some peace and quiet and even more stunning views. 

Stop 3: Athabasca Glacier/Columbia Icefield Adventure

Ever step foot on a 10,000 year-old sheet of ice before? Well, today’s your chance to get up close and personal with Athabasca Glacier and do just that! In order to get directly on the ice, you’ll need to take a tour organized by the Columbia Icefield Discovery tourist center. 

On the tour we traveled a few minutes to the Athabasca Glacier via snow-coach (an all-terrain vehicle with tires bigger than me!),  drank the pure glacial melt water (bring a water bottle for this), learned all about the history of glaciers in the area, and walked on the crunchy ice.

Do note that it’s practically freezing on the glacier (yes, even in the middle of summer), so be sure to bundle up! You’ll have roughly 20 minutes on the ice, which doesn’t sound like long, but we froze in a matter of minutes!

Is the Ice Explorer Tour worth it? I say yes, but it is quite expensive (at $87CAD at the time of this writing – January 2020). The only way you’ll really be able to experience the ice is by getting bussed directly onto the glacier. Do note that you are able to observe the glacier from afar and even walk on it’s edges, but it’s NOTHING like stepping foot in the middle of it.

Prebook your SnoCoach tickets ahead of time to bypass the (usually-very-long) line at the Icefield Discovery Centre. The Skywalk, a jaw-dropping walk along a glass floor 918 feet above Sunwapta Valley with breathtaking vistas every which way you look, is included in the ticket price as well. The real star of the show is the Ice Explorer though.

If walking on a glacier is on your bucket list, don’t miss out. Unfortunately, the glacier is receding at an alarming rate, which is a clear indication of global warming. 🙁

Thankfully, the folks at Columbia Icefield take as much precaution as they can to slow the melting of the glacier as best they can (I.e using special snow-coaches which are careful not to crack the ice, limiting the # of visitors per day, etc).

Other spots along the Icefields Parkway you may want to stop at include Herbert Lake, Mistaya Canyon, Weeping Wall (Cirrus Mountain), Parker Ridge Trail for a bit of hiking (~5km round trip), and Wilcox Pass Trail for a longer trek (~10km).

G rab a digital map of the Icefields Parkway here .

Where to Stay the night: I highly recommend that you continue the drive on the Icefields Parkway until you reach your hotel in Jasper (another hour or so north, depending where you’re staying obviously).

This way, you can start your first day in Jasper bright and early the next morning. And honestly, there’s really no reason to stay anywhere along the Icefields Parkway, as 8-10 hours will give you sufficient time to enjoy all the must-see sights. 

*And plus, if you’re planning to drive back to Banff after visiting Jasper, you’ll have another day (or partial day) to see the scenic stops on the Icefields Parkway. Jasper hotel recommendations below.

Days 8-9: JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Jasper is like Banff’s more rugged, less-crowded little sister, despite being larger in size and offering if not even more scenic beauty. The area is full of glaciers, lakes, and more peaks than you ever thought imaginable, with Mt. Edith Cavell towering over the town at 11k+ feet.

And due to its more remote area (5+ hours from Calgary instead of a mere 1.5 to Banff), you’ll find less visitors to Jasper (although the prime summer months still see an influx of out of towners).

You could easily spend weeks exploring all that Jasper National Park has to offer, but if you’re tight on time like I was, 2 days will suffice.

And if you haven’t seen much wildlife on your Canadian rockies road trip just yet, don’t fret – you’re bound to see lots in Jasper. 

Fewer crowds to Jasper mean a higher bear population, so be sure to take along your binoculars and bear spray and always practice bear safety (never get out of the car with a bear present, no matter how far away and when hiking, make noise and never go alone).

Native wildlife to the area include elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, white-tail deer, and, as mentioned, lots (and lots) of bears (grizzly and black) in the vast wilderness that is Jasper National Park. 

Really wanna ensure you see some wildlife?! → sign up for an organized evening or morning wildlife search (when the animals are most active)! Your guide will select the route based on seasonal wildlife movements, ultimately giving you the best chance of seeing the animals. Read reviews and  Sign up here.

Grab a free digital map of Jasper National Park here ahead of time to get your bearings!

First day in Jasper: 

Stop #1: Maligne Lake and Spirit Island

You cannot drive all the way to Jasper National Park and not visit Maligne Lake. It’s by far one of the most photographed locations in Jasper, (well, in all of Canada, actually), thanks to Spirit Island (only accessible by boat tours), it’s stunning azure colors, and views of the three glaciers.

And plus, it’s the largest natural lake in all of the Canadian Rockies (and we know how many of them there are!).

I recommend heading to Maligne Lake first thing in the morning, as this large lake is popular for a reason. It’s the furthest spot on the list for today (~1 hour), but you’ll be backtracking the rest of the day towards the town of Jasper, so it’s not so bad!

You’ll want to set aside some time for the ever-so-popular scenic boat cruise around the lake, which makes a quick (20 minute) stop at Spirit Island. And once you get off at Spirit Island, the time goes extra fast, so be sure to take all your photos right away!

I’ve done the boat tour twice, and it’s probably an activity I’ll be doing on all my trips to Jasper. Yes, it’s on the expensive side ($75CAD for 90 minutes and $110CAD for 120minutes), but well worth it in my opinion.

Canoes and kayaks are available from the boat house if you don’t want to take a scenic cruise around the lake and to Spirit Island.

Note that you CAN paddle to Spirit Island yourself, but it’s quite far at 14km from the Curly Phillips boat house (anyone up for an epic, yet tiresome paddle?). And just FYI, the water is quite chilly (like all other lakes in the Canadian Rockies), so you probably won’t wanna swim (or fall) in it.

You’ll also find a visitor center, the pier where the boat tours launch from, and a cafeteria-style restaurant at Maligne Lake (although I recommend making your own sandwiches).

Stop #2: Medicine Lake (The disappearing lake)

A relatively short stop, but may as well park for a few minutes since it’s kinda on the way to Maligne Canyon (our next stop)! Medicine Lake, known as the Disappearing Lake to some, does just that – the water vanishes (and then reappears) each year, making it a quite unique body of water. And how does this happen? By continuous draining through a network of underground caves. How cool is that?!

If you want to actually see the water, be sure to visit before late Fall, as by then the lake is gone, leaving behind a giant mudflat (where you’ll sometimes see moose grazing). The water refills in the spring when the snow melts from the surrounding mountains (I think…).

Look around, you may even see mountain goats, a bunch of Pika (a small furry animal), and/or a bald eagle or two (we saw one in a nearby nest!).

Stop #3: Maligne Canyon

I stopped to hike Maligne Canyon both times I was in the area (this past summer and a few summers ago), and highly recommend it! Being the deepest slot canyon (a whopping 50 meters!) in Jasper National Park, Maligne Canyon is not to be missed!

And get this – it’s narrow enough in some places that squirrels can safely jump across (brave little guys if you ask me – it’s a looooong way down).

If you want to do the entire hike across all six bridges it’ll take you a few hours, but many (including myself) opt to take in the views from the first few bridges. We started the hike from the First Bridge, which is where most people begin as well. There are fantastic viewpoints along the trail (did someone say waterfalls), pleasant strolls through the forest, and oh so many photo opps of the narrow canyon.

It’s downright fascinating to think how the gushing water has eroded the rocks and carved the gorge over thousands and thousands of years. Oh, Mother Nature, you’re pretty wild.

Don’t feel like getting around yourself on stops #1-#3? Neither did we (exploring in the Canadian Rockies is hard work :p). We actually chose to sign up for this full-day Jasper Wildlife and Waterfall tour , which stopped at Medicine Lake and Maligne Canyon, and included a 90-minute boat ride at Maligne Lake to Spirit Island.

The tour also included plenty of wildlife searching, and we saw quite a few bears right alongside the coach and plenty of curious pika! Sign up here for the exact tour we did!

If you prefer to get your hiking on instead of cruise along on a boat tour of Maligne Lake, opt for this tour instead (psst – it’s cheaper but doesn’t include that highly coveted stop at Spirit Island).

Stop #4: Pyramid and Patricia Lakes

If you have more time and haven’t had enough of the lakes just yet, Pyramid and Patricia are your answer. Go on a walk around this pair of lakes (complete with beautiful reflections) – but don’t forget your bear spray! Both are much quieter than all the previous lakes on this Canadian rockies itinerary, so be sure to talk loudly or even sing every few minutes to alert the bears to stay away. 

Not up for a long walk? Go kayaking instead! Don’t expect the same wow factor of Emerald Lake or Lake Louise, but you’ll be surrounded by mountains – what more do you need?!

Although we didn’t make it here ourselves, I heard it’s a great place to watch the sunset! Which I will be doing on my next trip to Jasper (hopefully sooner than later). And technicallyyyy you could walk here from town since the paths are clearly marked, but it’d likely take you the better portion of the day (your choice!).

Second day in Jasper:

The activities on today’s list are technically along the Icefields Parkway, but are waaaaay closer to Jasper than Banff. We chose to check out of our hotel early after our second night in Jasper, threw our luggage in the trunk, and hit the ground running for Calgary (via Banff), making the following stops along the way.

And just FYI, we arrived back in Calgary in late-afternoon, just in time to head into town for some dinner and a short walk around town. As noted earlier, you can opt to head to Edmonton (a 4 hour drive from Jasper) if you’d like to explore a new area the next few days instead!

Morning: Edith Cavell Meadows hike

The Edith Cavell Meadows hike was recommended to us by a shop owner in the town of Jasper (while shopping for binoculars), and we cannot thank him enough. It’s apparently the #1 hike in Jasper – how had we not even heard of it before?!

The hike takes visitors to a lake full of frosty icebergs and the mindblowing Angel Glacier, and only takes about 30 minutes to reach (via the Path of the Glacier Trail; an easy 1.6km walk).

If you want to see the glacier from above, you can continue on to Cavell Meadows Summit via the Cavell Meadows Trail (about 7km with some steep inclines). You’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of Mt. Edith Cavell, Angel Glacier, Cavell Glacier, and Cavell Lake below.

Due to our time constraints and wanting to see other attractions in the area, we walked to Cavell Pond via the Path of the Glacier Trail. It was misty and a tad rainy on the morning we went, meaning we had the trail mostly to ourselves (we saw just one other couple on our way down).

I suspect there’d be a much larger crowd in better weather, so be sure to arrive early since the parking lot is pretty small. I definitely want to do this short hike again in clear weather!

Horseshoe Lake: Despite being a relatively small lake (compared to some of the much larger ones we’ve already seen), it’s quite scenic and offers a short trail around the perimeter. Apparently it’s a top cliff-jumping spot, so if that’s your thing, be sure to bring your bathing suit!

Full disclosure: the trail was pretty muddy and a bit flooded (with patches of knee deep water) when we were there, so we opted to head straight back to the car since we weren’t wearing appropriate clothing. 

Athabasca Falls:   Thankfully I got to witness the force of the water of Athabasca Falls on my first visit, as it was unfortunately pouring on my latest visit! A picturesque and powerful waterfall with mountain views behind – what can be better?! It’ll undoubtedly be crowded with tourists, but still worth it in my opinion.  

A super easy and quick spot to visit, even with only a short amount of time. There are self-guided trails and bridges, and a large parking lot, making for easy access! You can even get close enough to feel the spray of the water, providing some nice relief in the hot summer months.

Next time I treat myself to another Canadian Rockies road trip, I wanna visit in winter (it looks downright magical with the frozen falls against the turquoise waters).

Sunwapta Falls:  Yeah, yeah, yeah, I hear you – another waterfall? This twin pair of waterfalls (one upper and one lower) are fed by the Athabasca Glacier – yup, that ice we stood on along the Icefields Parkway!

The upper falls are super easy to get to (literally a few steps from the parking lot), but you’ll need to head down 1.3km to reach the lower falls. And if you’re feeling brave – walk across the footbridge for a better view!

And if you’ve got extra time (or would rather skip out the Mt. Edith Cavell hike in the AM), there’s loads of additional hikes in the area to choose from. Some of the most popular ones include: the Wilcox Pass Trail, Valley of the Five Lakes, and the Sulphur Skyline Trail. I’ll be packing my hiking boots for those next time.

Where to Stay in Jasper:

By far the most popular place to stay in Jasper National Park is the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge . It’s an upscale, rustic retreat, with not only a spa and suites, but golf courses as well. Not looking to live a life of luxury in the mountains (nor pay a pretty penny for it)? 

Other options include The Astoria Hotel (lodging with lots of character and charm), Whistler’s Inn (surrounded by mountains), and HI Jasper (hostel just a short walk from downtown). Since we booked unfathomably late (and by that I mean a month ahead of time), the only accommodation I could find available was at the Tonquin Inn , which ended up being a perfectly fine place for a few nights.

I hope this (massive) guide to a Calgary to Jasper Canadian Rockies itinerary was helpful! Is a Canadian Rockies road trip on your bucket list?! If not, add it ASAP!

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December 9, 2020 at 5:58 am

thank you for sharing such nice content with us.

January 18, 2021 at 10:49 am

Oh, the memories. It has been nearly 30 years since I last went to Lake Louise and Jasper. I loved it so much I'm planning on going again, this time with my family. Great guide…I guess you skipped the tea houses?

January 18, 2021 at 11:21 am

I'm hoping to go again too! Yes – unfortunately we didn't have time, although I'd LOVE to make the hikes up there next time!

August 3, 2021 at 3:35 pm

Great write up ! Thanks for all the tips

August 20, 2021 at 9:48 am

Heading to Banff and Jasper next week for my second visit and your places to visit were all on my list of adventures that I absolutely must see ! I was so happy to find your individual day trip planning itinerary, which we will follow on our road tripping adventure. Thankyou for sharing this. I am so excited to hike this beautiful part of our country and can't wait for my adventure to begin.

September 9, 2023 at 9:47 am

Thanks for sharing this amazing itinerary.

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Experience nature at its finest...

Banff & jasper national parks sightseeing, rocky mountain coach tours, nestled in one of world’s largest swath of mountain peaks, the canadian rockies exhibit a rare natural wilderness that offers a last refuge for old-growth forests and whole mountain ecosystems. join one of our award-winning canadian rockies guided bus tours to explore easy and accessible trail walks to fabulous viewpoints. wander around glacier-fed turquoise lakes set against a backdrop of massive glaciers and spiral mountain peaks, and watch bighorn sheep and elk grazing contentedly as they drift across wild valleys., circle west, price (double, per person).

Standard Hotel : $1,129 – $1,289 / Premium Hotel: $1,659 – $2,119

Vancouver → Jasper → Banff → Lake Louise → Vancouver

• Day 1-4: Guided coach tour, including Banff, Jasper, & Lake Louise
• 3 nights of hotel accommodation: 2 nights in Banff, 1 night in Jasper
• 3 breakfasts
• Park Pass & Toll-fee
• Services of a mountain tour director
• Excursions to Maligne & Johnston Canyons
• Optional Activities: Ice Explorer tour, Banff Gondola ride
• Beautiful booklet of the Canadian Rockies

Western Trails

Standard Hotel : $1,229 – $1,389 / Premium Hotel: $1,759 – $2,219

Vancouver → Jasper → Banff → Lake Louise → Calgary

• Day 1-3: Guided coach tour, including Banff, Jasper, & Lake Louise
• Day 4: Scenic coach journey from Banff to Calgary

Western Classic

Standard Hotel : $1,309 – $1,469 / Premium Hotel: $1,829 – $2,279

Calgary → Jasper → Banff → Lake Louise → Vancouver

• Day 1: Scenic coach journey from Calgary to Jasper
• Day 2-4: Guided coach tour, including Banff, Jasper, & Lake Louise

Mystic Mountains

Standard Hotel : $1,829 – $2,089 / Premium Hotel: $2,559 – $3,219

Vancouver → Jasper → Banff → Lake Louise → Kelowna → Vancouver

• Day 2-5: Guided coach tour, including Banff, Jasper,, Lake Louise & Kelowna
• 4 nights of hotel accommodation: 2 nights in Banff, 1 night in Jasper, 1 night in Kelowna
• 4 breakfasts
• Excursions to Maligne & Johnston Canyons, a Winery tour

West Coast Triangle

Standard Hotel : $1,629 – $1,889 / Premium Hotel: $2,359 – $3,019

• Day 1-5: Guided coach tour, including Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise &  Wine Country

Stunning scenery and fantastic tour

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Entertaining, enriching, travelogue to and through the amazing Canadian Rockies

Read more “Entertaining, enriching, travelogue to and through the amazing Canadian Rockies”

Exactly what we were looking for

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Circle West – Absolutely fantastic experience

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Thank you for an amazing grand circle tour, we loved it

Grand Circle: Overall, this tour has exceeded our expectations. Sue had a list (long) of things to do and see. All ticked. wow!  Our guide Jeff has an excellent level of local knowledge and the driver was very assured and considerate. Again, Thank you for an amazing grand circle tour, we loved Read more “Thank you for an amazing grand circle tour, we loved it”

An amazing trip, beautiful views, exciting experiences

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Outstanding Tour of Rockies

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Circle West tour – fabulous experience

Read more “Circle West tour – fabulous experience”

Our Partners

Canadian Rockies Discovery Tour

8 days / 7 nights

Where it goes

May – October

Your itinerary is personalized to suit your dreams and needs:

• Decide your desired budget
• Choose your own activities and experiences
• Have all the details of your trip arranged for you

Explore Banff and Jasper national parks

Discover the best of the Canadian Rockies national parks on a week-long vacation. See Banff and Jasper national parks, and Lake Louise, whilst enjoying your choice of guided activities.

Seamless, worry-free vacation with plenty of adventure

Glaciers, emerald lakes, and forests of the canadian rockies, great choice of activities catered to your interests, choose from hiking, wildlife viewing, train rides, sightseeing, and more, top experiences and features.

Ride the Banff Gondola

See Calgary

Look for wildlife in the Canadian Rockies

Canoe on a lake in Jasper

Enjoy a river rafting tour in Jasper

Your questions answered.

Find out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. We are here to help.

What’s Included

Frequently asked questions, is this an escorted tour.

Our vacations are not typically ‘escorted.’ You are not tied into a specific group, or a rigid daily itinerary but rather have the freedom of ‘independent’ travel.

This allows you, with the help of our Canadian Insiders, to personalize your trip to suit your occasion, interests, timeframe and budget. We’ll guide you through the process and provide the reassurance of seamless connections, customer service support, and scheduled activities tailored to your taste.

Can I customize this trip?

Your trip can be as rich as you’d like, and completely arranged around your interests and needs. The greatest benefit of working with us is our local knowledge. You can customize your trip and decide what you’d like to see and do.

If your trip is a special occasion, we’ll make sure it is unforgettable. Or if you’re traveling with a group, we’ll take care of the logistics so you can share time together stress-free.

Can I modify the trip's length by spending more or less time at certain locations?

Absolutely! We personalize all our clients’ trips to fit their exact tastes and needs. You can add days at locations that you’d like to explore and spend more time at. Or leave out certain areas that don’t interest you as much. Discuss your travel goals with our Vacation Advisors who make sure that your trip fits your needs and budget.

Where do I stay on my trip?

We partner with many hotels across the country that offer a variety of service levels and unique experiences. Choosing a hotel is based on local availability and personal preference, and our Insiders will help you find the perfect place to rest your head so that you can have the best experience possible.

On some trips, I see hotels referred to as Comfort, Superior, and Deluxe. What is that?

On some of our trips, you’ll see that we categorize our hotel rooms by Comfort, Superior and Deluxe class, which generally translates into the traditional 3-, 4- or 5-star designation (equivalent to Best Western, Sheraton and Fairmont). However, sometimes we use the same hotel for more than one category and distinguish the room by size, floor level or view.

Our Comfort Level hotels include our favorite 3 star hotels, in great locations and with excellent service.

Our Superior Level hotels provide amazing value for clients wanting something more upscale but not at the price of a top-end 5 star resort. Superior level hotels are some of our favorites because of the character and unique charm that you won't find at the average chain hotel.

In Deluxe Level hotels, it's likely you'll be staying at one of the iconic Canadian Fairmont Hotels in a room with a view. Built for the Canadian Pacific Railway in the early 20th century, these hotels are luxurious and full of history – ensuring an experience you'll never forget.

What amenities will my hotel have?

Hotel amenities can vary by property, so your Vacation Advisor will discuss what’s most important to you, such as air conditioning, parking, laundry, swimming pool, spa, onsite restaurants, or 24-hour room service.

Are hotel rooms accessible?

Accessible hotel rooms vary by hotel, ranging from partially accessible to fully barrier free. Your Fresh Tracks Vacation Advisor will make sure to find the right room for your needs.

How much does my trip cost?

All our trips are personalized to fit our clients’ schedule and budget. The price of your trip generally depends on the travel season, train service, accommodations, and the sightseeing tours you take. When you request a quote you’ll be provided with the detailed information you need

What are the tours like in Banff and Jasper and are they suitable for senior travellers?

This itinerary allows you to choose your preferred activities and excursions in Banff and Jasper national parks. Many of our guests are very active, while some simply want to relax. Activity options include walking tours, small group bus tours, gondola rides, and lake cruises. For example, in Jasper you could choose to relax on a half-day train and sightseeing tour or, if you are looking for something more active, you could go on a guided alpine hike.

Let us know your activity level and we will find tours to suit you. Many of the tour options are suitable for senior travellers. For more details, please see the full trip itinerary or speak to one of our Vacation Advisors.

What are the transportation arrangements for airport transfers and local travel?

This trip itinerary includes transfers from Calgary Airport to downtown Calgary and from Banff to Calgary Airport. We will provide information on where your driver will meet you.

Travel between Calgary, Jasper, and Banff is also included. Depending on the trip class level you choose, you could have a mix of motorcoach journeys, small-group sightseeing tours, and private transfers. Between Jasper and Banff, you will travel down the beautiful Icefields Parkway and enjoy photo stops along the way.

For more details, please see the full trip itinerary or speak to one of our Vacation Advisors.

Sample Itinerary

Arrive in Calgary

Welcome to Calgary, where the prairies end and the foothills of the Rocky Mountains begin. 

• Private Transfer from Calgary Airport

Calgary to Jasper

Sit back, relax and enjoy the passing scenery as you make your way to Jasper. On this direct transfer, you will get your first glimpse of the stunning mountain vistas.

• Motorcoach Transfer to Jasper

Explore Jasper

Jasper is a great base to explore Jasper National Park, the largest park in the Canadian Rockies. Jasper is the gentle giant of the Rockies, and this small town offers visitors a more laid-back mountain experience with equal opportunities for adventure, discovery and relaxation.

After working up an appetite on an intermediate level hike up to Jasper's scenic Old Fort Point, learn to prepare your own gourmet meal while enjoying panoramic views.

• Half Day Train and Sightseeing Tour

Watch for wildlife on this minibus tour to Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake, then cruise to picturesque Spirit Island. 

• Suggested Add On: Pyramid Lake Guided Evening Canoe Paddle (Extra Cost)

Explore Jasper National Park

Explore the awe-inspiring scenery that lies just outside of Jasper on your choice of tour. 

This guided scenic float trip down the Athabasca River follows the same route used by fur traders over two centuries ago.

Take some excellent photos of Jasper during the early morning when the light illuminates the park's mirror-like lakes and snow-capped peaks. This time of day is perfect for viewing wildlife. 

• Jasper Skytram Experience with Shuttle
• Suggested Add On: 1 Hour Motorcycle Side Car Tour (Extra Cost)

Travel the Icefields Parkway

Start your full-day guided tour this morning as you travel the Icefields Parkway with a small group. Journey through the natural splendour of Jasper and Banff national parks.

On this full day sightseeing tour, walk on the Athabasca Glacier, stop for lunch, and step bravely out onto the Columbia Icefield Skywalk. 

Discover Banff National Park

Explore the beauty of Banff on your Canadian Rocky Mountain vacation.

Discover Banff’s folklore and natural history on a small group tour, then ride the gondola up to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.  

Embrace the fresh mountain air on a morning wagon ride along the base of Sulphur Mountain. Midway, enjoy a tasty BBQ lunch and experience authentic cowboy hospitality and entertainment.

Hiking is one of the best ways to explore Banff National Park. With a professional guide and small group, hike through the beautiful alpine landscape on one of our favourite trails and enjoy a picnic lunch. 

Explore Banff

Fill your lungs with cool, fresh Canadian Rockies air and head out for a day of exploration.

See an orphaned grizzly bear in his mountainside habitat, ride the gondola up to the top of Kicking Horse Mountain, and visit Yoho National Park's most scenic spots.

Cycle through Banff and the wonderful Bow Valley area on an e-bike tour. 

Sip on hot chocolate, coffee or tea as you await the sunrise. Explore the trails of Moraine Lake and keep an eye out for early morning wildlife sightings on the way to Lake Louise. Your local guide will help you take amazing photos. 

Enjoy a delicious three-course dinner at one of Banff's great restaurants.

Depart from Calgary

Depart Calgary today with fond memories of your Canadian Rocky Mountain vacation.

On this two-hour journey, watch the landscape change from towering mountains to rolling prairie.

View full itinerary

Like this trip? Get more details with a sample itinerary:

• Day-tour options and descriptions;
• Departure dates;
• Suggestions for personalizing your trip.

Accommodations

Moose Hotel and Suites

Moose Hotel and Suites is steps away from downtown Banff. Amenities include a spa, indoor pool, sauna, and on-site restaurant. Take a dip in one of the rooftop hot pools – the perfect place for checking out the spectacular mountain views.

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Often referred to as Canada's "Castle in the Rockies," the Fairmont Banff Springs is an iconic landmark in the town of Banff. In the summer, play a round of golf at the hotel’s stunning golf course.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Nestled within Alberta’s magnificent Jasper National Park, the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and plenty of wildlife. Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, world-class golf course, and award-winning spa.

Personalize This Itinerary

Here are some of our most popular enhancements to personalize this journey.

Private Icefields Tour

Spend the day with a private guide and explore the Icefields Parkway at your own pace. Along the way, take a helicopter tour from an Icefields base and soar above aqua-green lakes, spectacular glaciers, and graceful waterfalls.

Explore on a self drive

For the days you're not onboard the train, ask us about adding a car rental and exploring on your own. We'll provide points of interest, admission to attractions, and information on all the best places to visit along the way.

Make it family friendly

Travelling with kids or grandkids? Our Vacation Advisors will help you choose the best family-friendly accommodations and age-appropriate train experiences. We can plan engaging activities for everyone, and make sure you find the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.

What Our Customers Say

The itinerary was exactly what we had asked for.

The itinerary was exactly what we had asked for and all the details were thoroughly documented. The accommodations were excellent and any criticisms we have about them were not any...   read more

Mary and Charles

The scenery in Alberta was spectacular

The scenery in Alberta was spectacular. The Four Seasons Hotel in Vancouver and the Delta Point Hotel in Victoria were very special. The Glacier tour on the Athabasca Glacier was wonderful.

Diane and Jeffrey

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Discover the Best Banff Tours From Calgary

The town of Banff is located in the Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, west of the city of Calgary. Banff is the first town to be incorporated within a Canadian national park and it is the second highest elevated community in Alberta. The town is considered a resort town and attracts many visitors because of its many hot springs and mountains. The town was first settled in the 1880s and later made into a resort town due to its location. Banff is located near many mountains including Cascade Mountains and Sulphur Mountains, and is situated above the Bow Falls, near the Bow River and Spray River.

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2023 Visitor's Guide

From calgary.

Exchange the cosmopolitan city for a more rugged western experience where the skyscrapers are made of summits instead of steel.

GET TO JASPER BY BUS

If you'd rather let someone else do the driving, try a bus service!

Sundog Tours can pick you up at the Calgary airport and bring you to Jasper via Banff and the spectacular Icefields Parkway. Here are Sundog Tours schedules and reservations .

GET TO JASPER BY CAR

The Icefields Parkway, widely considered one of the most scenic stretches of highway in the world, runs north-south, connecting Jasper with Trans-Canada Highway 1 near Lake Louise and Banff.

If you don’t have your own car to drive to Jasper, try these car rental agencies. They have offices both in Jasper and throughout Canada and the U.S.

Avis Budget Hertz Car Rental National Car Rental

Road Conditions

All major roads in Jasper are paved, and all major highways have shoulders. The maximum speed limit inside Jasper National Park is 90km/hour, with several areas having slower limits for wildlife safety. Make sure to factor in plenty of time for breaks, slow traffic and inclement weather conditions. Here’s where you can see current road conditions:

AMA Road Report Parks Canada Road Report

Get your ticket to adventure. The largest national park in the Canadian Rockies is waiting.

Journey to Jasper

Experience one of the world's most spectacular road trips along the Icefields Parkway

With it's massively famous (and famously massive) annual Calgary Stampede rodeo, Calgary serves up western culture with fresh urban vibrancy.

This lovely town has many places to stop and rest. Food and entertainment are always available, making this a welcome pit-stop on your way to Jasper!

Lake Louise

Check your fuel! This is your last chance to fill up until Jasper (other than one gas station in Saskatchewan Crossing where prices can be high due to its isolated location). Lake Louise boasts one of the photographed spots in the Canadian Rockies.

Moraine Lake

Set in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, this glacier-fed lake is surrounded by mountains and waterfalls. Stop for a hike, canoe ride or picnic. Fun fact: this scenic view was used on the back of the Canadian $20 bill from 1969-1979!

Just 30 minutes north of Lake Louise, off the Icefields parkway (Highway 93), is one of Banff National Park’s largest lakes. Get your camera ready!

A popular stop for visitors, this glacier-fed lake marks the start of a fantastic hike up to Bow Summit, the highest point in the drive from Banff to Jasper.

Saskatchewan River Crossing

At the junction of Highway 93 and Highway 11 sits the starting point for Columbia Icefield Tours and other hiking trails. Nicknamed ‘The Crossing’, as fur traders used it to cross the North Saskatchewan River on the way to British Columbia.

Icefield Center & Skywalk

A 1-kilometre glass-floored cliff edge walkway perched 280 metres above the ground and overlooking glaciers and the Sunwapta valley. Be sure to book in advance !

Sunwapta Falls

Located on the Icefields Parkway and fed by the Athabasca Glacier, Sunwapta Falls showcases a 18m drop from the upper falls and a 1.3 kilometre hike down to the lower falls.

Goats and Glaciers

Also known as the ‘Mineral Lick’, this lookout is a great place to spot mountain goats along the mineral deposits by Mount Kerkeslin. Located 192 kilometres from the Trans Canada Junction.

Horseshoe Lake

Located around 25 kilometers south of Jasper on Highway 93, this uniquely-shaped swimming spot (no lifeguard, swim at own risk) offers wonderful views, high cliffs and clear waters.

Athabasca Falls

Just 33 kilometres from Jasper on Highway 93A, these famous and powerful waterfalls are class 5, with a 24 metre drop. Walk the trails that link viewpoints and a canyon. In winter enjoy the ice formations and hike/snowshoe/cross country ski the trails.

Valley of the Five Lakes

Just 9 kilometres south on Highway 93, this trail is a popular family hike that passes five small lakes vary in their depth and colour. After the first lake, turn left onto trail 9b, or keep going north onto Old Fort Point for an extra 10 kilometres.

Welcome! Get ready for a whole new set of adventures.

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3rd time's the charm: Finally taking a Canadian dream trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper

Like many travelers, we had epic plans for the summer of 2020. We had mapped out a highly anticipated multigenerational family trip to Canada with my parents and kids for June 2020. It was a big trip that would let us tick off several bucket-list destinations while simultaneously giving us the chance to escape Texas' summer heat.

But then, we all know what happened: The coronavirus pandemic swept the globe. Suffice it to say, the trip couldn't happen.

So, we rebooked the trip for June 2021 hoping, like many, that the Canadian border would reopen by then. Much to our disappointment, though, it remained closed to U.S. tourists, prompting us to cancel the trip once again.

Fast forward to June 2022, and luck was on our side. The third time was indeed the charm, as restrictions lifted and we were finally able to use our flight vouchers that had collected dust for two years to head across the border.

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Our merry band of travelers (which now included a range of ages, from my 6-year-old daughter to my 73-year-old father) took off for points north, bound for Alberta and all it had in store. We may have all aged by two years by the time the trip became a reality, but it was just as grand as we had hoped — and well worth the years of planning, waiting and replanning.

Here's how we booked our trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper, Alberta, including what we did, where we stayed and what we ate.

How to plan an epic Alberta adventure

Since we had a week to work with, we wanted to enjoy Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper on the same trip.

Adding Jasper definitely makes the trip longer and more involved, so if you're pressed for time or just want to move at a slower pace, know that there's plenty to see and do in Banff and Lake Louise.

With prices at their peak from July through August (the region's busy season), we decided to plan our trip for June to save money. From our experience, visiting a month before the peak travel season didn't lead to any major sacrifices on our part, so the cost-cutting move proved worthwhile.

We knew we'd need a rental car (and, specifically, a harder-to-book minivan to accommodate our large group), so we immediately started looking for a reservation. Luckily, we began planning our trip far enough out to snag a rental car without any trouble. Had we waited until we arrived at Calgary International Airport (YYC) in June, we would've discovered they were sold out.

With our dates and the rental car settled, we began to plan our trip. We started our adventure in Banff before moving on to Lake Louise and briefly checking out Jasper. We rounded out our Alberta visit with a one-night stay at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge in Kananaskis Country, a region located about an hour west of the Calgary airport.

Assuming you visit in the summer, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper are where you head to look at pretty lakes, streams and waterfalls and enjoy a number of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, canoeing and horseback riding.

There are plenty of options for all of these activities, but here are the ones we recommend:

Explore Cave and Basin National Historic Site

This destination in the heart of Banff was not only instrumental in the creation of Canada's first national park but is also a place that's held special meaning for thousands of years for people tied to Canada's First Nations community. Cave and Basin National Historic Site's rich history makes it a must-visit destination in Banff.

The actual cave is very short and small, with the pungent smell of sulfur. It is still cool though — both literally and figuratively.

While you'll likely only be inside for no more than five minutes, you can also look around outside, view the historic site's movie and peruse the site's exhibits to extend your visit to about 30 minutes.

Children 17 and younger can visit for free, but adults are required to pay 8.50 Canadian dollars (or about $6.50) each to enter. Travelers ages 65 and older are eligible for the reduced senior rate of CA$7 (less than $5.50).

Ride the Banff Gondola

Experiencing the Banff Gondola was a lot of fun, but we had sticker shock when we strolled up to the ticket office and found out that adult gondola tickets cost a whopping CA$70 (about $54) each during the warmer months.

Fortunately, the kids were free, as admission is waived for each child 15 and younger who is with an adult and rides before 10 a.m.

To save yourself from being stunned upon arrival, try to reserve your tickets online in advance, as you may have luck snagging a lower rate.

Despite the high price, the views were exceptional and worth the hit to our budget. We loved taking in the stunning scenery while strolling along the extensive boardwalk at the top.

In total, we spent about 90 minutes here, which felt like the right amount of time for most families.

Take a dip in the Banff Upper Hot Springs

Our stop at the Banff Upper Hot Springs was also a little different than what I imagined. These historic natural hot springs looked like a pretty basic swimming pool.

Still, at only CA$29 (roughly $22) — which is what a family pass for two adults and two children costs — we found the springs to be a fun spot to enjoy a dip.

Try to arrive first thing in the morning to beat the crowds, as your experience will be much more enjoyable if you're not rubbing elbows with hordes of visitors.

To dial up the nostalgia and avoid hauling around a wet bathing suit all day, I opted to rent the "old-timey classic" swimsuit. A clean and well-appointed locker room was available on site, so we could comfortably change and safely store our belongings while in the springs.

Go for a hike in Johnston Canyon

A popular Banff destination for hiking is Johnston Canyon, a stunning natural wonder in Banff National Park.

Our hike through this impressive canyon, which was carved into the limestone bedrock by water over thousands of years, was easy enough for everyone in our crew to complete. We did the 1.1-kilometer (a little more than a half-mile) hike to the lower falls, which took no more than an hour to complete.

More challenging trails are available as well, should you find yourself wanting to break a sweat.

Sign up for an Open Top tour

While we didn't actually go on an Open Top tour, we found ourselves wishing we had, as the classically styled vehicles we kept spotting at our hotel caught our eyes.

Priced at CA$42 (about $32) for adults and CA$24 (approximately $18.50) for kids, these tours help you see some of the area's top sights in just 90 minutes without having to do any driving or planning. Based on recent reviews, you'll also get some great stories along the way.

Hit the trails on horseback

Another activity we didn't have time to do in Banff was horseback riding. If we had stayed more than one night at the Fairmont Banff Springs, we would have found a way to fit in this activity, as there are trails conveniently located next to the hotel.

You can choose a one- or four-hour ride, which cost CA$89 (a little more than $68) and CA$249 (nearly $191), respectively. The minimum age is 8 years old for the shorter ride, while every member of your party will need to be at least 10 years old for the four-hour ride. If you're traveling with a younger kid, note that there are trail rides with lower age minimums in Jasper.

To save money, book in advance online to get the 10% discount. There's also a package discount available, should you find yourself also visiting places like local hot springs and the gondola.

Get an eyeful of Peyto Lake

Several lakes in varying shades of hard-to-believe colors are worth visiting while in Alberta, but Banff's Peyto Lake is one of the most breathtaking.

To get to this beautiful lake, which is free to visit, you need to embark on an easy 10-minute hike. We thoroughly enjoyed the brief hike thanks to the snow that was still on the ground during our mid-June visit. We found ourselves having an impromptu snowball fight before arriving at the lake.

Once Peyto Lake came into view, we were floored by the color. It was, without question, the richest hue of blue I've ever seen.

Rumor has it that, on sunny days, the lake takes on a brighter, turquoise appearance, so know that the color may vary slightly depending on when you visit. It gets its color from suspended rock flour in the water.

Related: Planning the perfect Banff summer vacation

Lake Louise

Marvel at moraine lake.

One of the absolute highlights of our trip was unquestionably our time in the Lake Louise area at Moraine Lake.

While Peyto Lake wowed us, the mesmerizing blue-green color of Moraine Lake's glacier-fed water was equally as impressive. Photos simply don't do this lake justice.

The lake is free to visit, though you'll need a bit of luck (or lots of strategizing) to avoid paying for transportation.

If you arrive early (or late) or just happen to time your visit perfectly, you can park right at Moraine Lake. We pulled up late in the morning just as the "parking is full" sign was being put out, so we had to head to the parking lot near Lake Louise Ski Resort's gondola and pay to take a bus back to the lake.

For what it's worth, Lake Louise's Fairmont also had a shuttle to Moraine Lake, but it was very expensive compared to the bus option, which only cost CA$8 (about $6) for adults and less for kids and seniors. We read that you needed advance reservations to use the bus, but we had no problem getting walk-up tickets during our visit.

No matter how you get to the lake, don't miss it. We walked around and admired it for about an hour. Be sure to wear hiking boots, as the trail can be slick.

Hop on the gondola

Lake Louise's gondola is said to be the best way to spot wildlife in the area from a safe distance.

However, the weather was rainy, overcast and generally not good the day we tried to ride, so we ultimately passed on this attraction.

If you don't want to do multiple gondola rides during your Alberta vacation, consider prioritizing this one, as it's much more affordable than the Banff gondola. Tickets cost CA$54.99 (approximately $42) for adults, with CA$10 (less than $8) discount cards easy to find everywhere there's a stand with tourist brochures.

Paddle around Lake Louise

While the weather was also not cooperative for this activity, we powered through the less-than-ideal conditions. That decision ended up being the right call, as our canoeing adventure was one of the highlights of our trip.

Renting canoes from the Fairmont's dock is an expensive activity at CA$95 (about $73) for an hour or CA$85 (a little more than $65) for 30 minutes. Prices are even higher for non-hotel guests.

Still, nothing beats watching those iconic red canoes out on the blue water except being in one with a paddle in your arms. The wind put our canoe skills to the test, so we didn't make it more than 20 minutes before heading back to shore, but had the water been calmer, we would have loved exploring for a full hour.

Saddle up at the Jasper Riding Stables

Next to canoeing and seeing some of the gorgeous lakes, my favorite activity was riding through the forest on the back of a horse.

While we didn't have time to go horseback riding in Banff, we made sure to go riding in Jasper at the Jasper Riding Stables. Because it was less expensive — CA$79 (about $60.50) for a one-hour ride — and had a lower minimum age of 6 years, this stable was the perfect place for our crew to spend some time with horses.

Unlike other parts of our trip when I found myself worrying about bear encounters (despite carrying bear spray with us at all times), I found myself able to truly relax while on horseback. The guides seemed more than comfortable handling the possibility of coming across bears, which helped put my mind at ease.

With one less thing for me to worry about, I was able to focus on the lovely scenery. On this particular day, our ride included no one but our party of four and our two guides, which was an absolute dream scenario.

Take a scenic drive full of impromptu stops

Like Banff and Lake Louise, Jasper had lots of lakes featuring an array of blue and green colors, but I'll give a special shoutout to a particularly green body of water we stopped at on the way to the Jasper East Cabins. I don't know its name, but we discovered it while driving around the area.

Besides pulling over for the lake, we made frequent stops to watch wildlife. We saw bears, moose and more on the side of the road as we drove through Jasper.

Roadways here offer enough space to safely slow down and pull over to enjoy the view, so we took full advantage of this free show. You'd be remiss if you didn't do the same when you visit.

Explore Maligne Canyon and the bridges in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-see destination on its own, but its bridges and Maligne Canyon, the park's deepest canyon, can't be missed.

From the bridges, you'll enjoy phenomenal views of the park. You're almost guaranteed to spot wildlife, too, while exploring the area around the canyon.

Check out the Columbia Icefield

For around CA$90 ($69) for adults and CA$60 ($46) for children, you can explore the Columbia Icefield.

With the tour fee, you get the chance to walk out onto the Athabasca Glacier and enjoy a skywalk experience. Know, though, that this isn't the only way to see the glacier.

If you're looking to save money (like we were) or the tour option sells out (as is often the case), you can instead park farther away and walk toward the glacier to see it up close. Don't attempt to walk onto the glacier on your own, though, as access to the actual icefield is only for those who pay for a tour.

Where to stay

Fairmont banff springs.

For most first-time visitors to the area, the Fairmont Banff Springs is probably at least in the conversation when debating where to stay in Banff. The 100-year-old, UNESCO World Heritage-listed "Castle in the Canadian Rockies," as it's lovingly called by many, is a bucket-list destination in and of itself.

We only stayed at the 745-room property one night due to the high room rates, but we enjoyed our visit overall and wholeheartedly recommend hanging your hat here — or, at the very least, visiting for a drink, a meal or maybe a spa treatment.

That said, if you only have the time and budget to pick one iconic Fairmont while in Alberta, this shouldn't be the one.

The views were phenomenal, and the convenience of being by the lake and having an array of amenities available at your fingertips was great. However, these highlights weren't enough to justify the close-to-$1,000 a night price tag for a room.

The room itself looked more like a $125-per-night budget-brand option desperately in need of renovation than what you expect to find at a high-end hotel.

Still, I'm glad we tried it for a night.

The Dorothy Motel

For less than a third of the price of the Fairmont, you could instead stay at a fresh take on the traditional motel concept.

My parents decided to stay at The Dorothy Motel (also in Banff) using their Capital One miles from their Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (which is currently offering a 75,000-point welcome bonus after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of opening your account). This meant that rather than pay more than $200 for a one-night stay, they had zero out-of-pocket costs for their room.

It was far from a full-service resort, but if you want to try something a little different and conserve your cash a bit, it was a more-than-suitable option.

Canmore accommodations

If nothing in Banff proper is meeting your needs, you can stay in nearby Canmore, Alberta, and drive the 20 minutes into Banff. In Canmore, you'll find more abundant vacation home rentals, cheaper hotel rates and some traditional hotel points properties from brands such as IHG and Choice Hotels .

To balance out our Fairmont extravaganza, we spent a night at the Quality Resort Chateau Canmore using Choice Privileges points we purchased during a Daily Getaways sale . While our points got us some larger room types that sounded cool on paper, one night was the right length of time to spend at the property.

Go in with modest expectations, and you'll probably be OK for a short stay.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

You don't need to splurge on your lodging in Banff if you don't want to, but if there is one hotel worth paying up for, it's the Fairmont in Lake Louise.

Granted, we got a suite to share with my parents, so that helped keep us away from the very small entry-level rooms (some of which don't have air conditioning), but we all quickly agreed that the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was worth the big price tag.

Staying right on the blue-green lake was not only a dream come true, it was a reality that lived up to (and exceeded) our expectations.

The views from our suite were awe-inspiring, and the decor was much more elevated than what we found at the Banff location.

If you are on the fence about which of the two Fairmonts to pick, know that you'll have access to fewer amenities at the Lake Louise property if you're not staying the night, so you shouldn't show up and expect to enjoy the same perks as paying guests.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

There is also a Fairmont in Jasper, if you want to hit the trifecta of the three luxury resorts.

But remember, this location is often sold-out for long periods of time due to passengers from the Canadian Rocky Mountaineer train staying here while in the area, so you'll want to look into making reservations as far in advance as possible. We weren't able to snag a coveted room during our visit, so we only had a chance to walk around the grounds.

It was a cute property that I would have loved to try for a night, though it didn't seem like a property that would overtake the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for the top Fairmont in Alberta, so I quickly got over my disappointment.

Jasper East Cabins

Because we weren't able to stay at the Fairmont, we instead chose to book a more affordable cabin. There are a few options more centrally located, but we reserved a cabin at Jasper East Cabins , a spot a little east of town. It was by no means the Fairmont, but it had a classic look we enjoyed. Not to mention, availability wasn't an issue.

A three-bedroom cabin set us back about $500 per night, with smaller cabins costing less. You're a bit removed from civilization here, but you will find a brewery within walking distance, should you crave something to do outside your cabin. There's also a well-stocked general store on site that had a great selection of basics and even some organic, higher-end options.

Related: TPG's guide to the Canadian provinces

What to eat

A fancy meal at the fairmont.

Even if you don't stay at a Fairmont while in town, you'll want to try a fancy meal at one (or more) of the Fairmont properties — if you can swing it.

At the Fairmont Banff Springs, we dined at 1888 Chop House one night for dinner and loved everything we tried.

It wasn't cheap, but the classic steakhouse offered excellent service and divine dishes. And don't discount it if you're not a huge meat eater, as even the vegetable plates and sides were outstanding. It's probably no surprise the Wagyu and the scallops were fantastics, but the sides (a flavorful beet salad, sautéed mushrooms and Brussels sprouts), seriously stood apart.

Appetizers here start at CA$20 to CA$30 (about $15 to $23), while entrees generally cost anywhere between CA$50 and CA$80 (or roughly $38 to $61).

If 1888 Chop House isn't in your budget, don't fret: You can enjoy an equally memorable bite while grabbing a drink at the Rundle Bar. Most happy hour drinks (think: wine, beer and select cocktails) cost around CA$10 (less than $8) while offered from 3 to 5 p.m. There is a short menu of appetizers and small bites, too.

At the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, we failed a little bit in the dinner reservation-making department, so we weren't able to eat at any of the higher-end sit-down spots, but we were able to order drinks and snacks in the Lakeview Lounge, which showcased jaw-dropping views of the lake from its windows. Since there was still snow on the ground, I warmed up with a mulled wine made of red wine, brandy with hints of honey, cinnamon and cloves.

If I had to do it all again, I'd be better about planning and make dinner reservations for the adjacent restaurant. There is also a spot for fondue and a lively restaurant called Alpine Social, should you find yourself feeling more adventurous.

A pastry and a slice of pizza

In our experience, Alberta excelled at bakery items and pizzas.

The Bear's Paw Bakery in Jasper was a sublime spot for morning pastries and all things baked and delicious. (If you're going to Bear Paw Bakery, don't be creative, get the bear paw. Trust me.)

We also really enjoyed Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co. in nearby Canmore, which had both indoor and outdoor seating and a variety of great pizzas for about CA$20 (approximately $15) each. I loved my fig, bison and brie pizza that also had caramelized onions, mushrooms and arugula scattered on top.

Casual pub grub paired with a cold brew

Next to our cabins in Jasper was the Folding Mountain Brewing Taproom and Kitchen, which had a not-to-be-missed kitchen to go along with its taproom.

We were pleasantly surprised by our meal here, as there's not a lot available in this part of Alberta, so the venue could easily get away with being mediocre due to the lack of options. But the food was solid, and it was great to have a selection of beers on tap to enjoy with dinner.

At this point, I'd had enough "on-the-go" food and ordered the Hikers Veggie Bowl which contained couscous, spiraled beets, arugula and yams. It might not sound great, but after days of basics, it tasted like (vegetable) heaven. Plus, you can add meat for a few extra dollars, if that's your thing.

A picnic lunch

No visit to Alberta would be complete without enjoying a meal outdoors.

There's no need to eat every meal in a restaurant when you're surrounded by stunning natural wonders, so we found ourselves preparing at least one picnic a day (often lunch) to set up on a random rock, picnic table or chair.

If you stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs and are feeling extra bougie about your picnic lunch, you can order one with your breakfast via room service to save for later. We did this during our stay and found the meal to be incredibly convenient and tasty. The cost was on the higher end at CA$40 (nearly $31), but there was enough food for two to enjoy — including a ham-and-cheese sandwich on a baguette and a gooey chocolate chip cookie — making the price easier to stomach.

Bottom line

When I look back through our collection of lake, stream, mountain, wildlife and waterfall images stashed away in our trip photo album, I admittedly find everything blending together in my mind.

But that's the beauty of travel, isn't it? You often don't have just one thing you are planning a whole trip around. Instead, you typically have an abundance of can't-miss activities and sights to experience throughout your vacation to create countless memories you'll cherish forever.

Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper more than delivered in terms of things to see and do. Although some of what we did involved preplanned routes and stops, many of our favorite memories from the trip happened organically while exploring this beautiful part of Canada.

This may have been my first trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper, but it most certainly won't be my last.

Banff & Lake Louise to Jasper Tour

The Banff & Lake Louise to Jasper Tour operates from May 1st to October 9th, 2023

This one-way tour from Banff or Lake Louise to Jasper takes you through some of the most spectacular mountain landscapes in North America. Following the spine of the Canadian Rockies, view a never-ending procession of mammoth mountains, jagged snowy peaks, and numerous glaciers. The entire day is spent in the majesty of Canada’s two most famous National Parks, Banff and Jasper. Sightseeing stops along this beautiful highway will include Lake Louise, Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, the Columbia Ice fields, the Weeping Wall and Athabasca Falls.

Your stop at the Columbia Icefield will provide you with approximately 4 hours to take part in the Ice Explorer tour onto the Athabasca Glacier, and/or explore the Glacier Skywalk over looking the Sunwapta Valley. You may also choose to enjoy the interpretive exhibits at the Columbia Icefield Centre or take a short guided walk to a scenic viewpoint. Picnic lunch and Glacier Adventure Combo included. 

(Please note there are no refunds on the Glacier Adventure Combo)

BANFF & LAKE LOUISE TO JASPER TOUR EXTENSION: OCTOBER 10th – 16th, 2023

Enjoy our sightseeing tour for the last couple of days of the summer after the attractions have seasonally finished

Includes all sightseeing stops and lunch (Discounted rate due to Glacier Adventure being finished for the season)

• Picnic Lunch Menu
• Private Journeys...

Lake Louise

If you are starting in Banff, you will get 20 – 30 mins to enjoy the beautiful views and incredible glacier at this iconic destination.

Bow Lake / Crowfoot Glacier

Visit the source of the mighty Bow River and photograph a remarkable hanging glacier that seems only an arms length away!

Columbia Icefields

Upon arrival at the Columbia Icefields you will have approximately 4 hours to take part in the Glacier Adventure tour onto the Athabasca Glacier and explore the Columbia Icefield Skywalk overlooking the Sunwapta Valley. Both attractions are included!

Athabasca Falls

Get up close to one of Jasper’s most dramatic waterfalls.

Picnic Lunch

Outdoor picnic lunch in a beautiful location.  

Is there room for my luggage on the bus?

Absolutely! Each guest is allowed one suitcase in our stowaway compartment and one carry-on bag. For additional luggage, please notify us as there is a charge for additional & oversize baggage. 

What should I wear?

We recommend you wear comfortable clothing as this is a lengthy drive and bring some warm layers for the Glacier Adventure. Temperatures are cooler at and around the Glacier so you may wish to have a jacket and closed-toe shoes. 

Banff to Jasper

Departure: 8:30am Duration: Approximately 12 hours

Adult: $299.00 / person Child: $145.00 / person

Lake Louise to Jasper

Departure: 9:45 am Duration: Approximately 11 hours

Adult: $295.00 / person Child: $142.00 / person

Sandwich Selection:

Chicken Club Wrap – Chicken club mix (mayo, chicken chunks, bacon bits) with lettuce and tomato on tortilla wrap

Roast Beef Sandwich – Premium Roast Beef Slice with lettuce and tomato with Swiss Cheese and horseradish mayo on a kaiser bun.

Vegetable wrap ​- Tomato, lettuce, cucumber, bell peppers and roasted red pepper hummus on a tortilla wrap.

Gluten Free Salad – Iceberg Lettuce, diced tomato, green onion, cucumber topped with diced chicken with French dressing.

Drinks, snacks, fruit and yummy brownies are also provided to round out your sandwich selection.

Save on tours in Jasper...

• Short Walks
• 3-3.5 hours.

Adventurer Testimonials

My wife and use the SunDog Edmonton Connector almost every month and the service is always outstanding and so convenient! The drivers are so friendly and the buses are clean and very comfortable. So Easy!

Expert guide. Excellent choice. Breathtaking scenery. Thank you SunDog Tours!

Great guides, great planning!

I booked 3 different trips with SunDog Tours and all 3 were excellent!

My wife and I had so much fun on the SunDog Tours Train Journey. The sights were absolutely stunning and our guide had so much knowledge of the area!

Thank you so much for a trip that we will remember years and years from now!

Calgary To Banff: 10 Things To Know Before Taking This Scenic Road Trip

• Discover the vibrant city of Calgary before embarking on your journey to Banff. With sunny days year-round, Calgary offers outdoor activities and attractions such as the Calgary Zoo and Calgary Tower.
• Choose your preferred mode of transportation from Calgary to Banff, including renting a car, taking a bus, or ridesharing. Drive at your own pace and enjoy the scenic beauty of Canadian highways, or opt for a bus service like On-It Transit, Brewster Express, or Banff Airporter.
• Make sure to pre-purchase an entry pass to Banff National Park before entering. Daily passes can be bought at the Banff visitor center or park gates, while a yearly pass, called the Discovery Pass, is a great option for frequent visitors. Enjoy the stunning sights and activities in Banff, such as the Banff Upper Hot Springs and Sulphur Mountain Gondola.

Heading to Banff? Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! The incredible Banff National Park in Canada is every traveler’s dream and Banff is the biggest nearby city. Most visitors heading to Banff fly into Calgary before driving to their destination in the National Park. Not only is it home to a large international airport receiving visitors from all around the world, but it’s also one of Canada’s major cities. There are lots of things to do in Calgary, and spending a couple of days here is well worth it.

When it comes to places to visit from Calgary, the stunning Rocky Mountains in Banff are arguably the most popular attraction for holidays in all of Canada. It's a short drive straight through to Banff, but travelers should slow down and experience everything in between to truly enjoy this scenic road trip. Here are some important things to know about traveling from Calgary to Banff.

Related: Calgary Road Trip Guide to Five Incredible UNESCO Sites (& What To Know About Each)

First, See The Sights In Calgary

With the bustling feel of a big city, Calgary is Alberta's largest town with 1.4 million people. It is known for the most sunny days in any city of Canada, even during the winter.

Travelers heading toward Banff are likely to spend at least a day or more in Calgary, either on the way up or while coming back. Calgary, the cleanest city in the world doesn't disappoint with plenty of fun outdoor and indoor activities . From Scooter tours to ice-skating rinks , there is plenty to do in Calgary all year long.

• Calgary Zoo: Open all year with almost 1000 animals including giraffes, tigers, lemurs, and more, the Calgary Zoo is a favorite among kids and adults.
• Calgary Tower: The observation deck on the globe at Calgary Tower offers the best 360-degree views of downtown and the Rocky Mountains in the distance. The glass floor on the deck is another adventurous attraction for the brave-hearted.
• Accommodation: From budget-friendly to luxury, Calgary offers a range of great hotels to choose from for all types of travelers.
• Best time to visit: June through August, for the city's special events. November through March for skiing.

The cheapest hotel rates are during the coldest time of the year when freezing temperatures deter sightseers.

How To Get From Calgary To Banff

There are several ways to get to Banff, including renting a car, choosing a rideshare, taking the bus, or finding private transportation (cab). Unfortunately, there is no train between Banff and Calgary.

How To Get To Banff From Calgary

• Car: Driving a personal or rental car is the best way to enjoy this epic trip. It allows maximum flexibility in plans, and the choice to stop and explore so many places before even reaching Banff. Canadian highways are a pleasure to drive on, both in terms of scenic beauty and general traffic sense. Make sure the vehicle has winter tires or at least all-season tires to tackle any ice and snow on the road.
• Bus: During winter the roads can be icy and slippery. Inexperienced drivers might choose to be driven instead of driving and there are a few bus options to get to Banff. Starting at $10 one-way, with return tickets up to $68, On-It Transit Service , Brewster Express , and Banff Airporter are great bus services that run as early as 3 a.m. from Calgary to Banff.
• RV: Many RV rental companies operate in Calgary, but there are also smaller options such as renting a campervan. Canadream , RVezy , and Karma Campervans .
• Rideshare: The option of rideshare is also available, which can be as cheap or sometimes even cheaper than a bus. Poparide , Banff Transportation Group , and Banff Sedan are some of the choices available in Calgary for driving to Banff.

Use a vehicle with built-in navigation as there are areas on the route with no cellular service. Alternatively, download Google Maps for the region before the trip.

Choose One Of Two Routes From Calgary To Banff

There are two different routes that travelers can take from Calgary to Banff and both offer scenic views.

Calgary To Banff By Road

• Trans-Canada Highway: 179 miles (127 km). This is the slightly faster option and should typically take an hour and a half. It is also the more commonly used route. The Calgary airport road connects directly to the Trans-Canada Highway while heading West. After heavy snowfall, this highway is typically the first to be cleared.
• Highway 1A: 87 miles (140 km). This is the more scenic and undertaken route (through Cochrane and the Kananaskis region) and only adds about 10–15 minutes more to the driving time, but it's worth every extra minute. There are also lower speed limits on this highway.
• Save Gas Money: For either route, fill up and get gas before leaving Calgary because it’s always cheaper than in Canmore or Banff

Watch for animals on these routes, especially around sunrise or sunset.

Pre-Purchase A Pass To Enter Banff National Park

Just like every other national park in Canada, an entry pass must be purchased to enter Banff National Park. The pass can be bought park at the Banff visitor center or at park gates just after the town of Canmore on the Trans-Canada Highway west of Calgary.

Banff Park Pass Fees

• Adult: $9.80
• Senior: $8.30
• Youth (up to 17 years): FREE
• Family/group (up to 7 people): $19.60
• Commercial group (per person): $8.30
• The daily passes expire at 4 p.m. the following day

A yearly pass (Discovery Pass) is a much better option for visitors planning to spend more time or visit on a more regular basis.

• Adult: $67.70
• Senior: $57.90
• Family/group: $136.40

Advance passes can also be purchased online at the Parks Canada website .

Related: The Best Times To Visit Jasper & Banff National Parks

Explore The Town Of Cochrane, Alberta

Only 22 miles from Calgary, Cochrane is an old town with a western feel to it. It's also a good place to stay outside Calgary as the hotels here are typically cheaper than in Banff. Even a one-day stop in Cochrane can be fun as there are some interesting things to do here.

Things To Do In Cochran

• Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary: A real hidden gem that makes a great stop on the drive from Calgary to Banff. It works as a not-for-profit that takes care of rescued wolfdogs. They offer several tours, including a walking tour, an intro tour, or an interactive tour.
• Farmers' Market: An ideal place to stop and stock up on local fruit and vegetables for the entire stay in Banff. Cochran's Farmer Market is set up every Saturday during summer (June to October). Hours are generally 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
• Accommodation options: For RV travelers, The Bow RiversEdge Campground is a full-service campground located on the Bow River with great views of the Rocky Mountains, lots of restaurants in the neighborhood, and access to shopping. Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Cochrane and Ramada by Wyndham Cochrane are some of the available accommodations.

Related: The Calgary Stampede Is Home To The World's Largest Outdoor Rodeo

Enjoy Water Activities At Ghost Lake

About 15 miles away from Cochran lies the beautiful Ghost Lake . The beach on the lake has a fantastic view of the Rocky Mountains, along with a host of activities for visitors who come here en route to or from Banff.

Ghost Lake Activities

• Swimming: Swimming is allowed in Ghost Lake, but expect the water to be very cold all through the year.
• Sailing: Being at the base of the Rockies ensures smooth and steady winds, making the lake an excellent spot for sailing and there are boats available for rent at the Marina.
• Fishing: It's a fairly deep lake and this makes for a good area for fishing. Bull Trout and Rainbow Trout are commonly found here.

Related: Visit Banff's Moraine Lake: The Jewel Of The Canadian Rockies

Stopping In Kananaskis Country

A short detour onto Highway 40 gives access to “Alberta’s Mountain Playground,” the Kananaskis. With 1400 square miles of breathtaking scenery which is as beautiful as any other place in the world, there is plenty to do and see during this Calgary to Banff pit stop.

From ice skating on frozen ponds in the winter to hiking in Kananaskis Country in the summer, it is impossible to get bored in the Kananaskis and the list of incredible activities just doesn't stop there.

• Hiking: A Conservation Pass is needed to hike in the beautiful Kananaskis region. A hidden and short hike is going up Windtower, located off the Smith Dorrein Highway
• Boating: Paddle boat, kayaking, and canoeing on Goat Pond in the summer. (Visitors are required to bring their own boat, canoe, or kayak)
• Ice skating: In Winter, the massive Spray Lake is a great location for ice skating.
• Stargazing: One of the best things to do at night in the Kananaskis is to get out and witness the incredible stars. On a really clear night, it is possible to see the Milky Way.

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

Stop At Beautiful Canmore In Alberta

The route to Banff via Highway 1A is studded with scenic stops and filled with gorgeous vistas that make for Instagram memories . Located just before Banff, the town of Canmore is a hidden gem that has more of a local feel compared to the touristy feel of Banff but has equally incredible scenery and a superb range of fun activities to do.

• Kananaskis Nordic Spa: Set on the Kananaskis Trail, it is the only Nordic Spa in the region and falls on a short drive of about 20 minutes "off the highway." The drive offers a high chance of spotting wildlife.
• Gap Lake: Gap Lake is a picturesque lake that is super popular for skating in the winter. The ice is so clear that it’s possible to see the bottom of the lake! The steady wind also keeps the lake mostly snow-free, so it’s clear for ice skating.
• Hiking to Ha Ling Peak: Meant for more experienced hikers, the Ha Ling Peak hike is fairly strenuous mainly because it is uphill most of the way. The first 70% of the hike is through the alpine forest and is likely to have patches of snow even in the early summer, but the view from the top is worth every calorie burnt.
• Accommodation: Canmore has some beautiful properties with sweeping vistas of the magnificent Rocky Mountains. Hotels, resorts, and inns line this little town preparing visitors for what lies ahead, Banff National Park.

See The Cascade Ponds In Alberta

Only a few minutes from Banff are the epic Cascade Ponds; a collection of ponds near Cascade Mountain. The area is gorgeous and accessible in all seasons – the reflections of the mountains in the water during summer, the bright yellow Aspen trees in the fall, and the pristine white snowy scenery in the winter. The Cascade Ponds is one stop that just should not be missed.

• Picnicking: With picnic tables as well as BBQ pits set up for building fires, the Cascade Ponds are a fantastic location to have picnics with family and friends.
• Proximity from Banff: The area is 10 minutes from Banff, so even if time is of the essence, it doesn't take much to visit the ponds for a bit.
• Prime Wildlife area: The chance of spotting wildlife near the ponds is fairly high with elk, mule deer, fox, and the occasional moose. There have even been sightings of wolves in the area, but not too often.

If traveling to Banff in the summer, then visitors must pack bug spray just and bear spray.

What To See In Banff

Banff's downtown area of the city has a vast range of places to eat, drink, and shop, and with the spectacular mountains as the backdrop to Banff, it’s the most beautiful place to base yourself in Banff National Park.

From budget-friendly inns to world-class ski resorts, Banff has some beautiful places to stay and a vast array of activities to do, both in winter and the summer.

• Banff Upper Hot Springs: As one of the top Alberta hot springs, the city of Banff has its very own hot springs with spectacular mountain views. It's a very popular destination and can get crowded, and the best time to avoid the rush is early morning or the last hour of the day.
• Sulphur Mountain Gondola: This offers the best experience of panoramic views of Banff National Park. Visitors can also hike up to the mountain to avoid paying for the ride.
• Cave and Basin National Historic Site: This place is especially popular with kids!

Travelers looking for more information about Banff can find it at the Visitor Information Center , which is located in the middle of downtown (224 Banff Ave).

Ready to head to the US? Explore epic mountain vacations in the United States on the next leg of your road trip.