calgary tours to jasper

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Jasper National Park Tours & Trips from Calgary

An adventure starting in Calgary is a great way to see Jasper National Park. We have 11 tours that range from 7 days up to 22 days. The most popular time for tours from Calgary is August, which has the most tour departures.

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11 jasper national park tours from calgary with 987 reviews.

• Hiking & Trekking

Canadian Rockies: National Parks Westbound

Loved every minute of the tour! Angel Gabriel was honestly amazing, funny, amazing cook and always listened to what everyone's preferences were and always came out with the best options!! Honestly had the best 2 weeks of my life so thanks so much!! We love you Angel Gabriel!!!!!

Canada's Rockies (7 Days, Calgary Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

• In-depth Cultural

Great Resorts of the Canadian Rockies

Michelle and our driver Elias were the BEST! 2 of our accommodations were excellent, 1 was good and 1 rated fair...so that is why it's accommodation is the only 4 start...all else was 5. I would add that it was "busier" than we had expected...everything we saw was fabulous...but could have used more leisure time.

Canada's Rockies (7 Days)

Knowledgeable tour guide - excellent bus driver. Tour is well organized with free time and options when the weather changed the plans. Food was good and suggestions were good. Communication was last minute, meaning the week before with the details, which made our planning more difficult.

Classic Canadian Rockies

• Mountain Hikes

Walking in the Canadian Rockies

Fantastic guide, great group of people to travel with.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Great Resorts of the Canadian Rockies with the Calgary Stampede

Spectacular Rockies and Glaciers of Alberta (Classic, 8 Days, Calgary Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

From the Rockies to Vancouver Island

• Sightseeing

Secrets of the Rockies and Glacier National Park (9 Days)

• Mountain Bike

With Family Through the Rocky Mountains

Tours starting from calgary.

• Calgary to Calgary tours (8)
• Explorer from Calgary (9)
• Family from Calgary (7)

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The ULTIMATE Guide for Getting from Calgary to Jasper (for 2024)

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Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Updated on December 29, 2023

Jasper’s remote position in Alberta is precisely what makes it so appealing. It may not have the splash of its southerly counter-town of Banff, but it has no less beauty. And for those people from Calgary who have spent a lot of time in Banff – who wouldn’t…it’s gorgeous and so close by – they may want to try something different.

This post on how to get from Calgary to Jasper is for them, or for visitors who may have landed at Alberta’s busiest international airport and want to figure out how to get to this jewel of the Canadian Rockies.

It’s a bit of a haul, but worth every minute spent on the highway. Not only are there so many great things to do in Jasper , but the scenery along the jaunt there is also sensational. (If you’re looking for a quick trip, we have an excellent itinerary for how to spend three days in Jasper .)

Calgary to Jasper Map

About the route

There are several options for this journey, but lucky for you, the quickest one also happens to be the most scenic. Before you decide on which way to go, however, be sure to check current road conditions. Highway 93 – the road that connects Banff to Jasper – commonly closes during winter because of unsafe conditions.

Note that in the winter months, winter tires or chains are mandatory to travel on Highway 93 due to avalanches and dangerous road conditions. It may be safer to have someone else get behind the wheel for this trip if you’re not used to driving Alberta roads in winter. If the roads are clear, however, we highly recommend making the drive yourself so that you can enjoy all the stunning stops along the way.

The Fastest (and Most Scenic) Route

The fastest route from Calgary to Jasper is 413 km or approximately 5 hours without stopping. Budget for more time as there will be plenty of photo stops along the way. You’ll leave Calgary heading westbound on Highway 1, and then onto Highway 93 (the Icefields Parkway ) northbound to Jasper.

Timing will certainly depend on traffic, weather conditions, and potential delays because of summer road construction. A park pass (see below) will be required to travel this route.

Alternate Scenic Route

Our alternative scenic route will take you through David Thompson Country. If you’ve done that first drive above several times, then you may want to switch things up a bit. For a slightly longer route, take Highway 2 north toward Red Deer. From there, take Highway 11 westbound until that road ends at Highway 93. Turning right and heading northbound will take you right to Jasper.

In total, this 560 km route will take you around six hours. This is an excellent route to get beautiful mountain views inside of David Thompson Country including driving beside Abraham Lake, it’s a little off the normal tourist trail.

The Longest Route

If visiting Edmonton is on your to-do list, or Highway 93 is closed due to avalanches, then this is the option for you. Take Highway 2 north from Calgary all the way to Edmonton, and then get on Highway 16 westbound until you reach Jasper.

If you drive this entire route non-stop from Calgary to Jasper, it will take you a total of around 7 hours (665 km).

National Park Passes

Important : Note that a Parks Canada pass is required for driving the Icefields Parkway and for visiting Banff and Jasper National Parks.

Effective January 1, 2024 daily fees are:

• Adult: $10.50
• Senior: $9.00
• Youth (up to 17 yo): FREE
• Family/group (up to 7 people): $21.00
• Commercial group (per person): $9.00

The daily passes expire at 4 pm the following day. If you’re looking to enter multiple times or staying longer, consider the Parks Canada Discovery Pass . It gives you unlimited admission for a year to all the national parks in Canada.

Discovery Pass fees are as follows:

• Adult: $72.25
• Senior: $61.75
• Family/group: $145.25

Driving the fastest route, you will need to buy the pass before reaching Banff (it is required for stopping anywhere in Banff or Jasper National Park, and for driving the Icefields Parkway). Along the alternate scenic route, there is a park gate to purchase a pass, but it is only open in summer. You can, however, purchase your pass online . If driving the longest route, there is a park gate near Jasper that is open year-round. 

Calgary to Jasper by Car

The drive to Jasper is scenic and full of surprising sights, making it the perfect route for a road trip. Travelling by car will give you countless photography opportunities. It is also extremely easy to get a car rental at the Calgary airport.  

We recommend that you book in advance to ensure less hassle. Use RentalCars.com to select the cheapest rate or to book with whichever company you prefer.

If you are not interested in a traditional car rental through an agency, you can also rent cars through a website called Turo (think Airbnb for car rentals).

Just arrived in Calgary and need a hotel?

If you are not in a rush, or want to spend an extra night in Calgary because you arrive late, there are plenty of hotels in the area. Those right onsite at the airport tend to be more expensive, so we prefer these options:

• Hotel Clique is a super chic and affordable hotel that has free parking, free WiFi, and a great restaurant onsite. It is a quick shuttle ride from the airport, and we have stayed here several times when we have an early flight out of Calgary. Bonus: it has two rooftop pools!
• The Four Points by Sheraton is on the west side of the city, just off of Highway 1, and will ensure you get a jump on your drive the next day. Parking and WiFi are both free.

Calgary to Jasper by Bus

The only bus service covering this route is via Sundog Tours . But because it is such a long ride, there aren’t that many departure times. The cost of a one-way ticket is around $124 at the time of publishing.

Calgary to Jasper by Private Transfer

It is possible to find private transportation that will take you from Calgary to Jasper. For example, this SUV to travel in style, or a sedan for those travelling alone. 

Be aware, these options are expensive – driving such a long way in a private vehicle does add up. Note that out of the three options mentioned above, the cheapest is approximately $1,300 for the journey.

Calgary to Jasper by Train

It is possible to travel from Calgary to Jasper by train for some portion of the journey. The two options are by Via Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer and neither is direct. Via Rail only travels from Edmonton to Jasper, there is no link to Calgary. The Rocky Mountaineer starts its journey from Banff and goes to Vancouver and then onward from Vancouver to Jasper.

Calgary to Jasper by Air

There is no international or domestic airport in Jasper. The closest airports to Jasper are Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Edmonton International Airport (YEG).

Calgary to Jasper by Other Options

There are, of course, a large number of taxi and Uber options in Calgary, but convincing one of them to do this long of a drive may be a nearly impossible task. However, Poparide.com might have something for you. These are people who are already travelling to Jasper and are looking for people to fill up their car and help out with the cost. 

Poparide charges per seat so you have an opportunity to meet other visitors. At the moment of writing this guide, there was one person offering one seat for $62.

Fun Things to Do Along the Way from Calgary to Jasper

Be prepared to be overwhelmed with too many cool things to do, no matter what route you choose to get from Calgary to Jasper. You will be driving through the most beautiful part of Alberta, so if you have the time, consider making the trip over at least two days, even (or especially!) along the fastest route.

The Fastest Route – Things To Do

Yamnuska wolfdog sanctuary.

Located on the way to Banff off of Highway 1A, the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is a fantastic place to visit. If you have seen any of our other guides, you already know that we love the place and recommend it every chance we get. It is one of the only sanctuaries in Canada to pair successful rehabilitation and re-homing of wolfdogs with public education. There are two tours that you can enjoy if you only have a few hours.

Visit Canmore

You can’t just drive by the whole town of Canmore without a stop! This is a great place to grab something to eat. This is also a great place to enjoy a first taste of the Rockies by marvelling at the famous Three Sisters mountains. Read our complete guide of things to do in Canmore to find the right option for you.

Vermillion Lakes

Another great place to stop by to stretch your legs is the Vermillion Lakes, about 2km west of Banff. In it, you get to go on a 2km walk look where you can enjoy views of Mount Rundle as it towers over the lakes.

Lake Louise

If you don’t have time for anything else, we recommend that you make it a priority to stop by Lake Louise. This just might be your most memorable stop along the way. Admire the beautiful, impossibly blue lake and the mountains towering above. The top activities are going up the Lake Louise Gondola or going on a hike.

The Lodge on Bow Lake

After Lake Louise, you might want to stop at Bow Glacier Falls/ The Lodge at Bow Lake to admire this special spot. This picturesque lodge on the shores of Bow Lake is a center for storytelling in the Rockies. It is a hub for hiking and sightseeing with Bow Lake, Bow Glacier Falls, and Peyto Lake nearby. 

Almost a third of the way between Banff and Jasper is the Bow Summit/Peyto Lake. (Note that the Peyto Lake parking area is closed for maintenance until August 2021). This is a perfect day hike to take while touring the Icefields Parkway! The return time on the Summit Lookout is only 2.5 hours, so it will also extend by a lot of your driving time, so account for that on your plans. This easy hike is 40 km north of Lake Louise and offers a gorgeous view of Peyto Lake.

Mistaya Canyon

A must-stop is Mistaya Canyon. This deep canyon has been formed by the Mistaya river and there is a 1.8km easy loop trail that will lead you to waterfalls and witness the rushing water as it curves through the cliffs.

Columbia Icefields Experience

After the Mistaya Canyon, you will come through the Columbia Icefields, one of Canada’s most impressive sights as it is the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies. Tourists can pop into the visitor centre to get all the information about the glacier.

Sunwapta Falls and Athabasca Falls

Be sure to stop at two of the most popular waterfalls. Only about one hour away from Jasper, fed by the Athabasca Glacier, are Sunwapta Falls . This is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Canada and the upper falls can be viewed from the viewpoint. Next towards Jasper is Athabasca Falls . There are paved walking trails leading to the falls that will get visitors up close and personal with the rushing water.

Alternate Scenic Route – Things To Do

Taking this secondary route won’t make things easier on you – you will still have a hard time when it comes to choosing among the many cool places to stop by!

Visit the Donut Mill

If you want to stretch your legs within the first couple of hours of your trip, stop at the iconic Donut Mill for a pastry in Red Deer’s “Gasoline Alley”. It is easy to find because the storefront is a large windmill on the west side of the highway.

Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site

Once you are westbound on Highway 11, consider stopping at the Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site to learn about how the fur trade shaped Canada. It has exhibits, archaeological remains of the four forts, and offers hands-on experience with Métis skills of the fur trade. You can even camp in Indigenous trapper’s tents and tipis if you want to split up your trip!

David Thompson Country

There are plenty of places to stop and hike in David Thompson Country . Coliseum Mountain is a long one (14km) but offers beautiful views of the area near the town of Nordegg. If you want something easier (almost 5km), then trek to gorgeous Crescent Falls.

See the Ice Bubbles

If you are travelling through this area from about December to April, you might be able to catch a view of frozen ice bubbles at Abraham Lake. Decaying plants and tree limbs at the bottom of the lake release methane that freezes, which creates incredible ice bubbles on the surface (think of it as an icy lava lamp)! Take a walk or skate across the ice to capture some stunning photos. If you are there in summer, the blue-green lake water is also a beautiful sight.

Once you are on the Icefields Parkway again, be sure to experience the Columbia Icefields and check out the waterfalls mentioned above in the fastest route en route to Jasper.

The Longest Route – Things To Do

Donut mill and big bend market.

As mentioned above, a stop at The Donut Mill is a must, and since you are already in Red Deer, the nearby Big Bend Market is very worth the stop for their made-to-order sandwiches; that way, you have more than just sweets and snacks. This self-proclaimed “year-round farmer’s market” offers a lot of products that are almost entirely locally made.

Heritage Ranch

Heritage Ranch has some fantastic experiences in both summer and winter. Check out their horse excursions ; in summer, you can check out scenic trail rides by horseback, while winter brings horsedrawn sleigh rides.

Explore Edmonton

If you plan a stay in Alberta’s capital city on this route from Calgary to Jasper, then there will be lots to keep you busy! Check out our guide to all the best things to do in Edmonton .

Galloway Station Museum in Edson

After heading west from Edmonton, the Edson Galloway Station Museum will get you a true glimpse into the region’s wild-west past with a life-sized trapper’s cabin, mine shaft and more. The museum is open seven days a week.

Visit Hinton – The Gateway to the Rockies

The town of Hinton is known as the “Gateway to the Rockies”. Closer to Jasper, Hinton has a must-see 3km “ Beaver Boardwalk ” around Maxwell Lake. It is the world’s largest freshwater boardwalk and a great way to see Beavers! There is also an iconic restaurant called The Old Grind which offers delicious food, including vegetarian and vegan-friendly options.

Take a Soak in the Miette Hot Springs

Before arriving in Jasper, rest those weary muscles with a dip into the Miette Hot Springs . Relax and breathe in the crisp mountain air.

Upon Arrival in Jasper

You made it!

Things to Do in Jasper

If you would like to get some useful information on Jasper attractions, hiking trails, and more, check out our Jasper Destination Guide . Also, pay a visit to the Visitor Information Centre run by Jasper Tourism in downtown Jasper at 500 Connaught Drive.

Eating in Jasper

You won’t have any trouble finding a Jasper restaurant to eat at. There are some amazing options, and if you have a chance be sure to book a Jasper food tour !

Where to Stay in Jasper

We’ve published an entire guide on accommodations in Jasper , but if you want to look at a quick few options, see our picks below:

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (Luxury)

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is an exemplary property with amenities for days. With impressive lakefront views of Beauvert Lake, eight on-site restaurants, a spa, an array of on-site winter activities like skating and snow-shoeing, plus an award-winning golf course, this resort is very worth the splurge (which we’ve done twice ourselves)! 

Jasper East Cabins (Mid-Range)

For a unique accommodation experience in Jasper National Park, we recommend renting a cabin at Jasper East Cabins . Enjoy your very own wood cabin that has all the amenities, including a fireplace and kitchenette. (Want more choices? We have an entire article on cabins in Jasper .)

Camping in Jasper and Maligne Lodge (Budget)

Jasper is a year-round camping destination with options for every level of camper, from rugged backcountry to family-friendly, and all with easy access to amenities. And if camping is not your cup of tea, Maligne Lodge is a Jasper hotel that won’t break the bank.

Other Resources:

• Complete Jasper Visitors Guide
• Accommodations in Jasper
• Best Hikes in Jasper
• Where to Camp in Jasper

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2-Day Jasper National Park Tour

Book early for special rates from $304/person ● Stay at Jasper town centre - Easy access for shopping & restaurants ● Discover Icefield Parkway with optional activities - Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer & Skywalk ● Visit Jasper National Park - The largest national park of the Canadian Rockies and The panoramic Maligne Lake Cruise tour (Optional) ● Provide In-depth experience at a leisurely pace

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Start your journey to Jasper National Park, the biggest National Park in Canada. 【 Icefield Parkway 】 One of Canada's national treasures and most rewarding destinations. Stretching 232km (144mi) through the heart of Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, this world-class journey offers access to a vast wilderness of pristine mountain lakes, ancient glaciers and broad sweeping valleys. (pass through) 【 Bow Lake 】 It is the headwaters of the Bow River that runs south through the city Calgary and onto the Oldman River ultimately to Hudson Bay. (stop for about 20 minutes) 【 Columbia Icefield 】 Snocoach and Skywalk (Optional) $$: Visit the Canadian Rockies and tour over the Athabasca Glacier in a giant Ice Explorer. A once in a lifetime experience. Next, enjoy a breathtaking view of the glacier from The Glacier Skywalk. (stop for about 3.5 hours) 【 Athabasca Falls 】 It is not one of the highest waterfalls, However, it is rather known for the shear amount and force of the water that flows through it from the Columbia Glacier. (stop about 30 minutes) 【Jasper Town 】 It is the heart of Jasper National Park. 2nd biggest town in the Canadian Rockies. (stop time – your own arrangement)

Today, continue your journey in the Jasper National Park. 【Maligne Lake (Optional - Lake Cruise) $$ 】 It is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. You can take an optional cruise to enjoy the scenery of the lake. (stop for about 100 minutes) 【 Maligne Canyon 】 It is carved into the Palliser Formation, a layer of limestone deposited in a shallow tropical sea by lime-secreting plankton about 365-million years ago. (stop for about 30 minutes) 【 Medicine Lake 】 During the summer, glacier melt waters flood the lake, sometimes overflowing it. In fall and winter the lake disappears, becoming a mudflat with scattered pools of water connected by a stream. Medicine Lake is one of the largest known sinking rivers in the Western Hemisphere. It is also maybe the largest inaccessible cave system anywhere in the world! (pass through) 【 Peyto Lake 】 It is a glacier-fed lake in Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies. During the summer, significant amounts of glacial rock flour flow into the lake, These suspended rock particles give the lake a bright, turquoise color. (stop for about 20 minutes) / (It will be replaced by Waterfowl Lake if it is closed) 【 The Crossing】 A starting point for tours on the Columbia Icefield. It is also the only place for basic services including public bathrooms, gas station and a restaurant. (stop for about 10 minutes) 【 Crowfoot Glacier】 Named after its shape when was discovered. A must-see stop with the climate change nowadays. The "Third Toe" was melted and barely visible. (stop for about 15 minutes)

1 Compulsory Selection Adult $50 / 0-15 YR $30 National Park Fee + Daily Breakfast 2 Group Meal (Rockies Area) - Required to book at the same time of the tour registration. We do not accept adding afterwards Not recommended for customers with any special dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian) or allergies $85/ per person (price for all ages) Pre-select main dish is required (each guest can have own option) - Beef/Chicken/Vegetarian 2 Lunches (Asian Cuisine ＆ Western Set Menu / Please select one for main dish / each guest can have own option) - LH 3 Optional Admission-Columbia Icefield (Required to book at the same time of the tour registration. We do not accept adding afterwards) Columbia Icefield Package (Combo) Adult $95 / 6-15 YR $65 / 0-5 YR FREE Ice Explorer (Snocoach) Only Adult $82 / 6-15 YR $54 / 0-5 YR FREE Skywalk Only Adult $40 / 6-15 YR $27 / 0-5 YR FREE (Package) Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer (Snocoach) + Skywalk (Child 6 to 15 YR / Infant 0 to 5 YR) - ICE+GSW (Snocoach) Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer (Child 6 to 15 YR / Infant 0 to 5 YR) - ICE Only Skywalk (Child 6 to 15 YR / Infant 0 to 5 YR) - GSW Only 4 Optional Admission-Jasper Area / Available from May-16 to Oct-12 departure (Required to book at the same time of the tour registration. We do not accept adding afterwards) Jasper Area Adult $80 / 6-15 YR $50 / 0-5 YR FREE Jasper Maligne Lake Cruise (Child 6 to 15 YR / Infant 0 to 5 YR) - MLC 5 Additional Check in Luggage - $25+5% GST per piece Multiple Days Tour - One piece of checked luggage & carryon luggage are allowed for each person $25 per piece entire trip Piece

Departure Time / Location 08:00AM Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel & Suites (Lobby) Address: 610 4 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 0K1 09:35AM Banff Aspen Lodge(Lobby) Address: 401 Banff Ave Drop-off Location Coast Calgary Downtown Hotel & Suites Banff Aspen Lodge Calgary Airport (Extra Charge Needed. Please refer to the Optional Items) Extended Stay Hotel (Booked with Calgary Tours)

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Calgary to Jasper

January 7, 2020 By Matthew G. Bailey 2 Comments

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Last updated: December 3rd, 2022

For those visiting or living in Calgary, you’re in an incredible place. There are so many epic road trips that start from Calgary, and quite possibly the best one of them all is the drive from Calgary to Jasper.

Located in the foothills just next to the Canadian Rockies, Calgary is a great base for exploring some of Canada’s best scenery, including Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Kootenay National Park, Yoho National Park, Waterton Lakes National Park, and so many others. Wow, that’s a lot of national parks.

What’s awesome about driving from Calgary to Jasper is that first, you have to drive from Calgary to Banff! Driving from Calgary to Banff is already an epic road trip in and of itself but now you get to extend it and go even deeper in the majestic Rocky Mountains.

There are so many things to do in Jasper and in Banff. Whether you’re interested in hiking, mountain biking, downhill skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, fishing, or delicious restaurants, Jasper has something for everyone. While we certainly recommend taking some time to experience some of the awesome things to do in Calgary as well, the goal of this travel guide is to help you get from Calgary to Jasper.

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Where is Jasper?

Jasper is located approximately 412-km Northwest of Calgary, Alberta. It’ also just 366-km from Edmonton, which makes it an excellent road trip from Edmonton to Jasper as well. Coming from Calgary without stopping, the drive will take around five hours via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) and the world-famous Icefields Parkway. However, you will want AT LEAST one full day to do this drive. Trust us when we say that you will be stopping a lot. The scenery is some of the best on the planet. This is a drive you want to enjoy. In fact, we recommend spending some nights along the way in places such as Banff or Canmore. But even if your goal is to only spend some nights in Jasper, dedicate an entire day to this drive.

The drive is generally fast and easy but if you’re driving in the summer and/or the weekends, it can be busy. If you’re driving in the winter, the highway can be anywhere from smooth to dangerous.

Jasper Park Pass

As is the case with all national parks in Canada, you will need a pass in order to enter. Daily passes expire at 4 pm the following day. However, depending on the amount of time you have, a yearly pass is a much better value.

You’ll find the park gates just after the town of Canmore on the Trans-Canada Highway west of Calgary. If you’d rather purchase in advance, you can also purchase them online at the Parks Canada website .

The current daily fees are:

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

If you’re spending one-week or more exploring national parks anywhere in the country, you are better off purchasing a one-year Discovery Pass. These are an incredible value. For one small fee, you can enjoy all national parks and historic sites across Canada for an entire year.

The prices for the Discovery Pass are:

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

Best Time To Go?

Generally speaking, the warmer months are always the best time for a road trip anywhere in Canada. The winter months can be a beautiful time to visit the mountains but driving is much more hazardous. If you have no experience driving in snow and on ice, you may have difficulties. In addition, the highway can be closed due to avalanches, which can cause delays in your trip.  By late spring, most snow will be gone and the roads will be much easier to navigate. However, the summer months present another challenge. It gets very busy in both Banff National Park and Jasper National Park between June and September. As long as you’re cautious, you’ll be okay, but keep in mind that the highways will be busy with tourists who vary in driving capability. There is also a lot of wildlife in the summer months, so you’ll need to look out for that and also for the cars who sometimes stop in the middle of the highway just to take a photo of a bear. (Note: please don’t do this. Pullover to a safe area of the highway or just keep on driving).

The weather can change dramatically in this part of the country, so we recommend installing the Weather Network app or checking The Weather Network online. You can easily check the weather in Banff, Lake Louise, and in Jasper, but if you’re trying to determine what the weather is like along the Icefields Parkway, one good option is to look for Saskatchewan River Crossing. This is approximately the halfway point between Lake Louise and Jasper.

How to Get from Calgary to Jasper 

After the beautiful drive from Calgary to Banff, you’ll then continue a little further towards Lake Louise and then go North via the incredible Icefields Parkway. Few drives match the beauty of the Icefields Parkway . Often ranked as one of the most scenic drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway takes you through both Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. You’ll pass by hundreds of mountains, as well as turquoise lakes and rivers, waterfalls, lush pine forests, and glaciers.

There are dozens of places to stop, including world-famous sites such as Banff, Lake Louise , and the Athabasca Glacier. There’s also a lot of wildlife on this highway, so you might see bears, moose, deer, mountain sheep, or elk. For this reason, as well as the potentially crowded season of the summer or the slippery roads of the winter, you will want to take your time, be alert, and just enjoy the road trip.

Calgary to Jasper by Car

If possible, we highly recommend taking your own car. With so many places to stop along the way, driving your own vehicle is the best way to experience the drive between Calgary and Jasper. This drive will easily take you from dawn until dusk and the only way to maximize your time is to have your own set of wheels.

Note: the driving conditions are very different between the summer months and the winter months. The summer months are a much safer time to go, although you will still have to be alert for wildlife and other cars as this is a very busy time of year on the highway. In the winter, however, the roads can be very slippery and covered in snow or ice depending on the time of year. If you have no experience driving in the snow, this might not be a good time to go. 

As we’ve already mentioned, there is a lot of incredible scenery along the route as well as the potential for a lot of wildlife sightings. You’ll notice a lot of people pulling over or slowing down to take photos. However, we’ve also noticed people stopping in the middle of the highway sometimes. DO NOT DO THIS! Please find a safe place to pull over or just keep driving. Stopping in the middle of a highway can be very dangerous and we don’t want you or anyone else to get hurt.

If you’re looking to rent a car for your trip, you can rent them in Calgary, Banff, or any other major city. There are many different rental car companies and we typically just use a search engine such as Expedia or Booking.com to scour prices and find a good deal. There’s also the option of renting an RV or a campervan, which is another very popular thing to do in this part of the world.

Rideshare from Calgary to Jasper

If you’re looking to experience the drive by car but aren’t able to drive your own, you may want to consider rideshare. People have been doing this for a long time with sites like Kijiji and Craigslist, but this is not always the safest way to do it. However, now there’s Poparide.com , which allows you to select your driver based on reviews as well as your luggage requirements. Prices vary but typically go for roughly $40-$60.

If you can’t find anyone going from Calgary to Jasper, you might consider taking a ride to Banff and then continuing on from there. Of course, you’ll need more time built into your schedule, but this is another option for making your way to Jasper, Alberta.

Calgary to Jasper by RV

If you’re looking to have more of a “home on wheels”, consider renting an RV or campervan. RV rentals are a very popular thing to do in Canada thanks to how big the country is and how many parks we have.

Here are some options below:

• CanaDream :  This is a big RV rental company. They have everything from the little guys to the big guys.
• RVezy :   This is the Airbnb of RV’s. You rent someone else’s RV.
• Karma Campervans :  This is an option for campervans. Typically, it’s a regular size van with two front seats and the back area has been converted into a mini living area with a bed and a kitchen.

Calgary to Jasper by Private Car

If you’d rather not drive your own car but also don’t want to be cramped inside a bus, you may want to consider a private tour. Obviously, these will be much more expensive, but they also come with an experienced driver who can tour you around worry-free.

• SunDog Tours offers private tours in a sedan, SUV, or shuttle between Banff and Jasper depending on the size of your group.
• Airport Shuttle Express also has different options for arranging a private charter.

Calgary to Jasper by Bus

Despite the popularity of this area, there are very few options for taking a bus from Calgary to Jasper. If you do land one, it’s a great way to sit back and relax, but you’ll lose the ability to see sights along the way.

• SunDog Tours offers a one-way bus ride from Calgary to Jasper that takes around 7 hours. However, this bus only leaves in the winter months. In the summer, you’ll have to get to Banff first and then continue on to Jasper.

As you can see, there are almost no options for going direct from Calgary to Jasper. However, if you go to Banff first, then there are more options for getting up to Jasper, such as:

• Banff Tours provides a coach shuttle service between Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise, and Jasper. The Pick-up points are at various hotels within each destination and tickets go for $120 per person each way.
• Brewster Express offers a shuttle service from Banff to Jasper . For $120 per person one-way, your departure and drop-off locations can be customized to where you’re staying.

What To See Along the Way

We’ve written some detailed articles on this site about things to do in Banff , things to do in Canmore , things to do in Jasper , and things to do in Calgary . We’ve also written an extensive guide for the drive between Banff and Jasper . There are so many places to see and things to do along this drive but below are some of our favourite things to do if you only have one solid day.

(Note: depending on time, you may not be able to do all of them)

Banff, Alberta

(Located 126km from Calgary)

One of the most famous towns in all of Canada, Banff is home to some of the world’s top scenery, as well as many activities, restaurants, and accommodation options. If you’re only passing through, you won’t have time to do much, but we’d still recommend stopping here for lunch and just getting a taste for this magical mountain town.

Johnston Canyon

(Located 25km from Banff and 263km from Jasper)

You’ll need a lot of time to do this hike, as it will add a good three hours to your day. However, it’s a beautiful and relatively easy hike inside a canyon to see some spectacular waterfalls. It’s gorgeous in both the summer and in the winter when the waterfalls freeze over for a truly special Johnston Canyon Winter .

Lake Louise

(Located 57km from Banff and 231km from Jasper)

If you’re visiting this part of the world, there’s a good chance you’ve already heard about Lake Louise. It’s one of the most famous sites in all of Canada and is the last place you’d visit before embarking on the Icefields Parkway towards Jasper. The lake itself sits in front of the Fairmont hotel and has gorgeous mountain and glacier views above the turquoise-coloured lake. Even if you stop just to take a look, it’s worth the effort. If you have more time, consider going on a hike or renting a canoe to go for a paddle. In addition, if you visit the nearby Lake Louise Ski Resort, you can go skiing in the winter or take a summer tour on the gondola to see amazing views and perhaps a Grizzly bear.

Bow Summit/Peyto Lake

(Located 100km from Banff and 188km from Jasper)

This will be your first stop along the Icefields Parkway and is one of the most photographed lakes in the country. The short 2.9-km hike takes you to a viewpoint overlooking beautiful Peyto Lake and the surrounding mountain valley.

Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefields

(Located 185km from Banff and 103km from Jasper)

This massive icefield, which is one of the largest on Earth, is another must-see along the Icefields Parkway. It’s as deep as the ocean and can easily be seen from the highway. You can stop and view the icefield and the glaciers for free, but if you want to walk onto the glacier itself, you’ll have to pay for a Columbia Icefield tour . There are some unique walking tours as well, but for most people, the most popular thing to do is the Glacier Adventure tour, which takes you on to the Athabasca Glacier via an all-terrain explorer.

To guarantee your spot on the tour, you’re going to want to book in advance. The tours run every 20 minutes or so. They start at the Columbia Icefield Visitor Centre, which also has a hotel. You’ll find a souvenir shop, a small restaurant, and an outdoor viewing area.

Glacier SkyWalk 

The Glacier Skywalk is a glass-floor bridge that hovers 918-feet above the valley floor. It’s just a few kilometres away from the Columbia Icefields and can be included as a package with a tour of the Athabasca Glacier. For those afraid of heights, this will be a real thrill!

Time to allow: 1 hour or more. 

Sunwapta Falls

(Located 234km from Banff and 54km from Jasper)

This is one of the most popular stops along the Icefields Parkway. The walk to the waterfall is very short and you can just admire the beautiful colours for as long as you want. If you want to hike more, there are lots of trails that start here as well.

Time to allow: 30-minutes or more

Athabasca Falls

(Located 257km from Banff and 32km from Jasper)

Another extremely popular spot with photographers and tourists, this is not only a beautiful waterfall but also a small canyon that cuts through the valley. With sunlight, the water is bright turquoise, resembling that of a tropical beach.

Time to allow: 45 minutes or more

Things To Do in Jasper

You made it! Somehow, despite all the incredible scenery, you still managed to reach your final destination. Lucky for you, you’ll continue to be amazed by the jaw-dropping scenery. Jasper is also home to mountain views, outdoor activities, and loads of wildlife, as well as an array of restaurants, coffee shops, pubs, and shops. For more on what to do, check out our 3-day itinerary for things to do in Jasper .

Where to Stay in Jasper

There are a variety of places to sleep in Jasper, ranging from backcountry camping to luxury hotels. In the summer, there are loads of options and it will be very busy. In the winter, there are fewer options but it will also be much less busy.

Camping in Jasper

If you’re up for camping, there are plenty of options for Icefields Parkway camping. Keep in mind though that they fill up very fast. You’ll want to book months in advance, especially if you’re visiting in the summer. You can book a number of camping options through Parks Canada .

Budget Accommodation in Jasper

If campings not your thing but you’re still looking for budget accommodation, there are a variety of options, including hostels and hotels. Hostels include the Jasper Downtown Hostel , HI Maligne Canyon , and HI Athabasca Falls . A popular hotel that isn’t too expensive is Maligne Lodge .

Mid-Range Accommodation in Jasper

There are a number of mid-range hotels right in the town of Jasper, including Whistler’s Inn . However, we love renting cabins! Our favourite place is Becker’s Chalets , which is just 10-minute south of Jasper on the Icefields Parkway. They’re located right along the Athabasca River. Another option is Jasper East Cabins , which are 40-minutes away and closer to Miette Hot Springs.

Luxury Accommodation in Jasper

Without a doubt, the most luxurious place to stay around Jasper is the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge . It has impressive views of Beauvert Lake and sits right on its own award-winning golf course. You’ll also find a whopping 8 on-site restaurants and a spa.

Things To Do Around Jasper

Since there’s no airport in Jasper, it’s not going to be your final destination. So what’s next after Jasper? Well, it depends on what you want to do. You could drive back down the Icefields Parkway towards Banff, admiring the views from an entirely different angle. From there, you could go west to British Columbia. If you’d rather ditch the mountains for the city, you could travel northeast to Edmonton and enjoy some time in West Edmonton Mall. You could also go halfway down the Icefields Parkway and then drive highway 11 (David Thompson Highway) to Rocky Mountain House and back to Calgary or Drumheller via the prairies.

Either way, there are so many things to do!

For more things to do in the area, check out the following articles:

• Things To Do in Banff
• Things To Do in Calgary
• Things To Do in Alberta
• Rocky Mountain House Road Trip
• Things To Do in Lake Louise
• Things To Do in Golden, BC
• Driving from Banff to Jasper

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

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July 1, 2020 at 6:05 am

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you mean Matthew? 🙂 haha thanks for letting us know!

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27 BEST Stops On A Calgary to Jasper Drive

If you’re planning a Calgary to Jasper road trip, you are in for a treat. You’ll get a bit of everything on this trip. From quick lakeside stops and beautiful hikes, to shopping adventures in the Town of Banff, it’s a journey perfect for all types of travelers.

The drive is over 400 km, and while you could depart Calgary and hightail it for Jasper, we highly recommend against it. There are so many gems found on a Calgary to Jasper, or Jasper to Calgary drive, that you’ll want to see.

We’ll run over a few of our favorite stops, though we are sure you’ll find more to make this journey unique to you and your trip. While this journey starts in Calgary, the itinerary and trip can easily be reversed to make a Jasper to Calgary drive, if that is where you are beginning.

The Best Stops on a Calgary to Jasper Road Trip

Once known mainly for cowboys and oil, Calgary has evolved over the years into a hub of innovation with many activities, shops, breweries , museums, and restaurants . While the Canadian Rockies remain Alberta’s biggest tourist draw, Calgary is a destination that should not be overlooked. As Canada’s fourth-largest metropolitan area, it offers plenty for visitors to explore, regardless of the season.

Located just 80 kilometers east of the Rockies, Calgary provides easy access to Banff and Canmore, making it an ideal base for exploration. If you’re flying into Calgary and have an extra day to spare, it’s worth exploring the city for the day!

Some of the best things to do include having lunch at the Calgary Tower, exploring Studio Bell, or taking a Pedal Pub Tour in the summer. If you happen to be visiting during the Calgary Stampede in July, you can’t miss the experience!

If you’re looking for a winter activity just outside of Calgary, on the way north, skiing at WinSport is a must-do. You don’t need to journey to the Rockies to hit the slopes, as WinSport is conveniently located and was a host of the 1988 Winter Olympics. While it may not be as vast or scenic as ski resorts in Banff , WinSport still offers impressive park and night skiing.

WinSport also offers affordable lessons at their ski school for those new to skiing or snowboarding, and lift tickets here are much cheaper than at SkiBig3 Resorts or Nakiska. It’s an excellent option for beginners who want to learn without feeling overwhelmed or without breaking the bank.

But skiing isn’t the only thing to do at WinSport. The facility also boasts a hockey rink and tube park, and during the summer months, visitors can enjoy zip lining, mini-golf, and mountain biking. Additionally, their indoor venue hosts a variety of events throughout the year.

Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary

Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary is home to over 35 magnificent wolfdogs nestled at the foothills of the Canadian Rocky Mountains in the city of Cochrane. Visitors can observe and learn about these beautiful creatures at the sanctuary and even interact with them by sharing treats and giving them a friendly pat.

But the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary isn’t just a safe haven for displaced wolfdogs. It also strives to raise awareness and educate people about these majestic pups. Guests can take a sanctuary walk or an interactive tour to discover all there is to know about wolfdogs in Canada while enjoying impressive dog tricks and making furry friends along the way! If you’re an animal lover, this is one of the best things to do when driving from Calgary to Jasper.

Barrier Lake

When driving on Trans Canada from Calgary to Jasper, take the exit for HWY40 and venture into Kananaskis . After about 20 minutes, you’ll come across Barrier Lake on your right-hand side. This is one of the most beautiful lakes in Kananaskis, and you don’t have to venture too far into the park to see it.

Once at Barrier Lake, visitors can either relax on the shores of Barrier Lake or embark on a moderate hike to the Prairie View lookout point . Those seeking a more challenging adventure can opt to head up Jewell Pass via the Prairie View trail or continue their walk up to Yates Mountain to take in the breathtaking views from the Barrier Lake Fire Lookout.

Kananaskis Country

Kananaskis is a provincial park that’s often overshadowed by Banff. However, there are plenty of amazing things to do in Kananaskis , and we highly recommend that visitors spend at least a day there. We promise falling in love with this beautiful park won’t take long. If you don’t have that long, we recommend driving down Highway 40 and just taking in the epic views.

Kananaskis is where countless movies have been shot, so see if you can recognize some peaks appearing in The Revenant, Inception, and The Edge . Beyond the views, there are plenty of Kananaskis hikes to enjoy. Head out to Kananaskis Lakes with a picnic basket and some inflatable stand-up paddleboards, or soak in the pools at the Kananaskis Nordic Spa.

Lac Des Arcs

Lac des Arcs is categorized as a hamlet within the Municipal District of Bighorn No. 8. Positioned on the south side of the Bow River, it can be found directly across from the Hamlet of Exshaw. You’ll see it on your right-hand side as you are driving from Calgary to Jasper, and there are a few pull-off points so you can pull over and enjoy the view.

Lac Des Arcs is far from the prettiest lake in the Rockies, mainly due to the LaFarge cement plant that will undoubtedly, appear in all your photos. Regardless, it’s still a nice spot to stop, although it’s typically highly windy. In the winter, Lac Des Arcs is one of the best places to enjoy a wild ice skate!

Canmore, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and is likely already on your Canadian Rockies bucket list. Canmore offers many activities that cater to all interests, ensuring that boredom is never an issue. There are so many hikes, lakes, and things to do in Canmore , so we recommend spending a few days here to enjoy yourself fully.

Unlike Downtown Banff, which attracts millions of tourists each year and has lost some of its humble charms, Canmore has still managed to maintain a little bit of its down-to-earth atmosphere. While visiting, grab a coffee at Eclipse Coffee on Main Street , admire the views of Faith, Hope, and Charity, the individual mountains that make up the Three Sisters Mountains , or SUP on the Canmore Reservoir!

Lake Minnewanka Loop Drive

When driving from Canmore to Banff , you’ll see a turn-off for Lake Minnewanka/Cascade Ponds on your right-hand side. Get off and enjoy the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Dr. This loop drive will take you past Cascade Ponds , where you can have a nice picnic; Johnson Lake , where there is a lovely and easy loop hike; Two Jack Lake , and the impressive Lake Minnewanka.

Each body of water provides different views and won’t disappoint. You can even rent a canoe, kayak, or motorboat in the summer. If you don’t want to pilot your watercraft, book a Lake Minnewanka Scenic Cruise.

Downtown Banff

I’m guessing that Downtown Banff will be on your hit list when driving from Calgary to Jasper. Although you’ll technically be in Banff National Park for a large portion of this road trip, Downtown Banff offers quite a bit for visitors who don’t want to venture too far from civilization.

Head to Banff to stroll Banff Avenue, walk into the many shops, smell the flowers at Cascade Gardens , dine at the many restaurants , or go up the Banff Gondola . Some of the top recommended Banff activities are:

Bow Falls : Bow Falls is a beautiful waterfall just a short walk from Banff Avenue. Head here in both the summer and winter for magnificent views.

Surprise Corner : A great “surprise” viewpoint with the most picturesque views of the beautiful Banff Springs Hotel. It looks straight out of a fairytale.

Banff Gondola : Take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain, where you enjoy walking the boardwalk and getting views over the Town of Banff and Cascade Mountain. You can also hike up the Sulphur Mountain Trail to save money and get active.

Hike Tunnel Mountain: A short and sweet hike up Tunnel Mountain will get you moving and provide views of Mount Rundle and the Bow Valley. This hike takes less than an hour and is one of the most accessible mountains to hike in Banff .

Vermilion Lakes

Vermilion Lakes , just outside Downtown Banff, offers a stunning reflection of the iconic Mount Rundle and is one of Banff’s best sunrise and sunset spots. During the golden hours, photographers flock to Vermilion Lakes to capture the sublime landscape and perhaps even spot some wildlife near town. You don’t have to be a photographer to enjoy the magic here.

Vermilion Lakes is a fantastic spot to head with a book and enjoy the scenery. It’s also possible to bring a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard and take it to the water. Vermilion Lakes, although windy sometimes, or one of the most accessible places to paddle in the Rockies.

Drive the Bow Valley Parkway

The Bow Valley Parkway (or the 1A) is a road that every visitor to Banff National Park should drive on at least once. Before Trans Canada, the Bow Valley Parkway was the original road linking Banff and Lake Louise in the early 1900s.

Now, it’s a road primarily used for sightseeing and outdoor recreation and is an excellent alternative to the Trans-Canada when connecting Banff to Lake Louise. Although it’s much slower than the highway, it allows visitors ample time to leave their cars and enjoy the breathtaking views.

So if you have extra time driving from Calgary to Jasper, opt for the Bow Valley Parkway instead of Trans Canada – you won’t be disappointed! Some of the best things to do on the Bow Valley Parkway are:

Johnston Canyon

For many visitors to Banff, Johnston Canyon is a must-see destination and a family-friendly hike that’s easy to tackle for most.

The trail winds through the narrow canyon, passing a few waterfalls along the way; it eventually leads to the Upper Falls, which is a sight to see. Johnston Canyon is a great winter and summer activity in Banff to enjoy.

Baker Creek Resort

Baker Creek Mountain Resort is an enchanting resort that embodies everything that makes the Rocky Mountains special, from their beauty and tranquility to the sense of adventure and closeness to nature. Baker Creek is one of the best Banff cabins you can stay at, and if you can book a night here, don’t hesitate.

Morant’s Curve

Just before you get to Lake Louise along the Bow Valley Parkway, Morant’s Curve is a picturesque viewpoint offering a stunning view of a sweeping bend in the Bow River. It’s a lovely photo point where trains traverse the Canadian Rockies against a backdrop of sheer beauty.

It’s an excellent stop for visitors planning to drive leisurely down the Parkway. There’s even a perfect viewing platform for tourists and photographers alike. Photographers often time their visit to capture the morning light as trains pass through the curve, resulting in an awe-inspiring shot.

There is no train schedule, so if you want to see Morant’s Curve with a red Canadian Pacific train passing through, you’ll have to wait it out and hope you get lucky!

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is one of the most popular lakes to visit in Banff , and if you have never seen it, it’s best to work it into your Banff itinerary. Be forewarned that parking here can be a significant problem, so we recommend planning for an early visit, a late one, or taking the Parks Canada Park and Ride. You can read more about Lake Louise parking here.

Once at Lake Louise, take in the views from the lakeshore, have tea at the Fairmont, hike up to Lake Agnes and the Beehives , or go for a paddle on one of the bluest lakes you have ever seen.

Moraine Lake

The one lake even more popular than Lake Louise is Moraine Lake . The alpine lake is a wild turquoise blue fed by glacier melt and set with a backdrop of the Ten Peaks. If heaven were a place, Moraine Lake could definitely be it.

However, you won’t be able to drive right up to Moraine Lake while on your road trip, and you’ll have to book the Parks Canada shuttle or a tour to get there. But your efforts will be worthwhile once you first touch this majestic space.e

Once at Moraine Lake, hike to Sentinel Pass, enjoy a coffee at Moraine Lake Lodge, or rent a canoe and go for a paddle.

Drive the Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is undoubtedly one of the most breathtaking road trips in the world. The good news is to get from Calgary to Jasper; this is really the only way to drive, so there is no way you can skip this part of the drive (not like you would want to, anyway).

Not only does it wind through the Canadian Rockies, but at every turn, it presents majestic mountains, icefields, waterfalls, and countless scenic viewpoints that will surely leave any traveler mesmerized. Having driven the Icefields Parkway many times, we can attest that it remains captivating on every drive.

This 232-kilometer stretch of the double-lane highway follows the Continental Divide and connects the beautiful towns of Lake Louise to Jasper . There are plenty of excellent stops along the Icefields Parkway; a few of the most notable ones are:

Among the numerous lakes adorning the scenic Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada, Bow Lake stands out as a favored attraction for visitors to Banff National Park. The region boasts many breathtaking views and pristine lakes; Bow Lake is no exception.

As one of our top recommendations for a brief stop on the Icefields Parkway, Bow Lake offers a family-friendly hike along its lakeshore trail or longer treks around the lake, and even up to Bow Glacier Falls, for those seeking a more comprehensive excursion. Want a truly epic scramble near Bow Lake? Check out The Onion or Mount Jimmy Simpson for full day (difficult) adventures.

Peyto Lake , a stunning turquoise blue glacier-fed lake located 40 km north of Lake Louise, is one of the most iconic attractions in Banff National Park. Situated along the renowned Icefields Parkway, the lake owes its dazzling blue hue to the glacier-fed waters from the Peyto Glacier, part of the Wapta Icefield.

The viewpoint overlooking Peyto Lake is regarded as one of the most breathtaking in Banff National Park and is especially popular among photographers. With its exceptional beauty, Peyto Lake is a worthy contender to Moraine Lake, yet with fewer crowds. As such, visiting the lake’s viewpoint is a must-do activity in Banff.

Mistaya Canyon

Mistaya Canyon is a favored destination on the Icefields Parkway, making it a popular stop for those traveling from Lake Louise to Jasper.

A brief and easy half-kilometer hike along a well-maintained trail leads to a fenced bridge where visitors can marvel at the breathtaking sight of powerful water cascading through the rocks beneath their feet. The curvy canyon walls, formed by the Mistaya River, only add to the area’s charm, leaving tourists in awe.

However, during the peak summer months, parking at the pullout area on the west side of the Parkway is limited, and it can get quite crowded.

Parker Ridge Hike

Parker Ridge is undoubtedly one of the finest hikes along the Icefields Parkway. We highly recommend it as a must-do activity if you have 2-3 hours to spare when driving between Lake Louise and Jasper.

The gradual 2.5 km incline to the ridge was well-marked and straightforward, with no technical or scrambling involved. This makes it an excellent walk for individuals of all ages and skill levels, including young couples, families with children, and even leashed dogs.

Despite its ease, the view from the ridge is simply breathtaking, providing incredible vistas of the impressive Saskatchewan Glacier and a serene blue glacier lake.

Sunwapta Falls

Sunwapta Falls is a must-see destination along the Icefields Parkway. It is composed of upper and lower falls, both of which are fed by the Athabasca Glacier.

Although the upper falls can get quite crowded, the lower falls are still reachable via a 1.3 km hike and provide a fantastic experience that is well worth the trek. The upper and lower falls are stunning and can be visited year-round in either summer or winter.

Athabasca Falls

Athabasca Falls , located about 20 miles south of Jasper town, is a must-see attraction in Jasper National Park and one of your last significant stops on the drive from Calgary to Jasper. Despite not being a giant waterfall, its dramatic and majestic beauty makes it a popular destination for visitors.

The waterfall drops about 75 feet and is fed by the Athabasca Glacier. The volume of water that rushes over the edge is very high, making the upper Athabasca River roar, especially during the height of the thaw during the late spring months.

Plenty of hiking trails leading to viewing areas offer breathtaking views of the river and falls. However, it is crucial not to get too close to take a good picture, as the ground and rocks can be treacherous and slippery. Falling into the frigid water and rocky canyon would not end well.

Horseshoe Lake

Horseshoe Lake is just a short drive past Athabasca Falls along the Icefields Parkway. It’s a wonderful local lake that many visitors are unaware of, but it’s well worth stopping! The lake is massive and forms none other than a horseshoe shape, and enclosed by cliffs where you can jump into the frigid Canadian waters.

There are numerous jump points, with the highest height rumored to reach 80 feet. Always make sure to check your landing and make sure it’s safe before jumping! Besides cliff jumping, you can enjoy a paddle on this beautiful lake in the summer.

Woohoo! You have made it to Jasper! If you thought you had seen plenty on your Calgary to Jasper road trip, buckle up because there are so many fantastic things to do in Jasper.

For your first day, stroll around the Downtown area, have a beer at Jasper Brewing Company, and enjoy walking out to Pyramid Island on Pyramid Lake. Here are some ideas for the next few days to fill your time.

Jasper Skytram: Book a trip up the Jasper Skytram . Once you get up there, take a hike to Whistlers Summit.

Paddle on Lake Edith, Annette, and Beauvert : Rent a paddleboard and enjoy a morning on one – or all of these Jasper lakes – which are all near each other. Our favorite is Beauvert, which has some of the most transparent blue water in the Rockies.

Maligne Lake Rd: A must-do in Jasper. Maligne Lake Road will take you to the best places in Jasper, including Maligne Canyon, Medicine Lake, and Maligne Lake.

Alternative Route – Calgary to Jasper

There are two alternative routes you can take to get between Calgary and Jasper, though neither are nearly as scenic as the one mentioned on this list. However, if you have driven this route before, or need to get to Edmonton, or Highway 93 is closed because of winter conditions these options will connect Calgary to Jasper.

• David Thompson Country Route: Head towards Red Deer from Calgary via Hwy 2 N. Take Highway 11, the David Thompson Highway and drive through beautiful David Thompson Country. Stop at Abraham Lake before continuing onto Saskatchewan River Crossing, where you can hop on Highway 93 (the Icefields Parkway) and continue onto Jasper.
• Edmonton Route: If you have a reason to travel to Edmonton, or really want to visit, you can drive around the mountains. Drive from Calgary to Edmonton via Hwy 2 N, eat at a great Edmonton Restaurant, and continue to Jasper via Yellowhead Hwy W/AB-16. This route is very long and will take at least 7 hours of driving.

Calgary to Jasper FAQ

What’s the drive from calgary to jasper like in the winter.

It depends on conditions and recent snowfall, but you can expect the drive to be very wintery between November and April. The worst part of the drive would be the Icefields Parkway section.

This road can turn treacherous during and after a winter storm., I strongly recommend avoiding it during winter unless you have experience driving in snowy conditions and have researched the current conditions on 5.11 Alberta.

If there has been heavy snowfall recently, it’s essential to check the road conditions and ensure that your vehicle is sturdy 4×4 at the very least. Winter tires are mandatory on the Icefields Parkway from November 1st to April 1st. Equipping your vehicle with winter tires and an emergency kit is advisable, especially if you’re driving in Alberta during winter. Just because you rented a car in Calgary in the winter does not mean the car automatically comes with winter tires. Winter conditions can last from late October/early November to April; even September can bring snow to the Rockies.

It’s important to note that the Icefields Parkway is not plowed to the same extent as other roads in Alberta and is typically not salted. There’s no cell phone reception in the area, and winter temperatures in Alberta can drop drastically. Being stranded without proper preparation could be a matter of life and death. Since winter traffic is low compared to summer, it could take a while for a passerby to come to your aid. I may seem like I’m being dramatic, but I’m just trying to prepare you for the worst in case it happens.

If you decide to tackle this as a winter drive, it’s essential to note that the only gas station, the Saskatchewan River Crossing, is closed during winter. Meaning it’s necessary to start your journey on the Icefields Parkway with a full gas tank. You can fill up in Lake Louise and also in Jasper. Additionally, no services are available on the Icefields Parkway during winter, so it’s essential to pack enough snacks!

Where Are the Best Places to Get Fuel?

The best price you’ll get on fuel is in Calgary, which is usually quite a bit cheaper than in the mountains. If you miss it in Calgary, fill up at the Petro Canada at the turn-off for Cochrane.

Past that, you should fill up in Dead Mans Flats, which is cheaper than in Canmore and Banff. Gas at Lake Louise and along the Icefields Parkway will be more expensive than anywhere else.

What’s the Best Way to Get From Calgary to Jasper (or vice versa)?

The only direct way is to drive between Calgary and Jasper. If you don’t have a car, we recommend booking a rental car at the Calgary Airport or in Downtown Calgary with Rentalcars.com or Discover Car Hire. Depending on the season, you can often rent cars for under $50 a day. We have even scored rental vehicles in Western Canada for $30 a day in the winter.

If you are flying into Calgary and out of Edmonton , opt for a one-way rental car between the two. If you want to have your set of wheels, kitchen, and bed all in on place, we would recommend booking a campervan for your trip to the Rockies. Campervans are a popular form of travel in Banff come summertime! You can compare van rates here!

Is There a Bus from Calgary to Jasper?

 Tour operators can guide you from Calgary to Jasper if you don’t feel like driving the Parkway or would rather ride as a passenger to watch out the window. We recommend checking the routes with Sundog Tours , which is one of the only companies offering this type of tour.

Is There a Train Connecting Calgary and Jasper?

There is no direct train connecting Calgary to Jasper. If you really want a train journey, check out the Rocky Mountaineer, which has a train from Banff to Vancouver and then from Vancouver to Jasper. It’s a luxurious train tour, so expect prices to be high.

Can You Fly From Calgary to Jasper?

There is no commercial airport in Jasper. If you want to fly, you can fly from Calgary to Edmonton and drive from Edmonton to Jasper. However, this wouldn’t make much sense unless you have reason to travel to Edmonton, and it would take much longer than the drive.

Do I Need a Parks Canada Pass?

A Parks Canada Pass is necessary to drive between Banff and Jasper. You do not need a Parks Canada Pass to visit between Calgary and Canmore, though if you venture into Kananaskis, you will need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass. If you don’t have a pass, you can purchase one right after leaving Canmore at the Banff Park Gates.

A Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which gets you entrance to all Parks Canada destinations for a year, is only $151.25 for a family. Day passes are $11.00 per person, so depending on how many days you stay in Canada, you may want to consider the Discover Pass.

You will need a Parks Canada pass to visit any sights in Jasper and Banff, so depending on how long your Banff and Jasper itinerary is, it’s likely worth it to buy the Discovery Pass.

Is There Wildlife Along the Drive?

There are bears, mountain goats, sheep, elk, coyotes, and everything in between, which you will likely begin to see more of once you get to Canmore.

If you get lucky, you may see one of these majestic creatures while driving. If you do, don’t get out of the car, and give the animal its space. Don’t create traffic. Slow down and keep driving; please don’t stop for a long time or chase the animal for a photo.

Is There Cell Coverage?

There is cell coverage for most of the drive between Calgary and Lake Louise, though once you hit the Icefields Parkway, don’t expect to have much of a signal again until you get to Jasper. The only reliable places I can get an okay signal on the Icefields Parkway are the Saskatchewan River Crossing and the Columbia Icefields Center .

What is the Total Distance?

From Calgary International Airport to Jasper, the total distance is 428.7 km. This does not include any stops or pull-offs.

How Long Does it Take to Drive From Calgary to Jasper?

If you drive straight from Calgary to Jasper, the drive will take under 5 hours in perfect conditions. If you plan to make any stops, it will take longer. We recommend a whole day just for the journey between Lake Louise and Jasper (the Icefields Parkway) alone!

How Many Days Do I Need in Banff and Jasper?

I would suggest at least spending seven days in the Canadian Rockies, though you will 100% leave wanting more. If you have the time and budget, consider a two-week trip to the area. This will give you ample time to explore Banff, Kootenays , Canmore, Jasper, Yoho , and more! However, we have lived here for years and still need a lifetime to explore t the Rockies.

Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies

• Tours (New in 2024): The Banff Blog is partnering with one of the leading tour companies in Western Canada so readers can experience the magic of the Rockies with other travelers – without having to think about a thing. See all our 2024 tour offerings here!
• Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
• Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car : The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service connecting you from the Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Banff or Canmore.
• Get Around : We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. Or embark on an epic campervan trip. We like to compare prices on Motorhome Republic and Outdoorsy .
• Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going to watch for cheap airfare deals!
• Hop On, Hop Off : This tour is taking Banff by storm. It’s exactly what it sounds like, hop on and off a bus bound for all the best attractions at your own pace!

About Natasha

Natasha calls Canmore, Alberta home. After traveling across seven continents and 90 countries with Cameron, she settled down in the stunning Canadian Rockies. She loves to help others travel and make their planning easier. She is a winter enthusiast and loves to snowboard, ice skate, and snowshoe and enjoy all the fantastic summer opportunities in Banff like hiking, scrambling, and biking. You can find her in the mountains or enjoying a coffee by the river. Learn more on the about us page! If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

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2023 Visitor's Guide

Jasper National Park is a wonderland of dazzling glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, thundering waterfalls and evergreen forest, roaming wildlife, all surrounded by mountains. Venture out on your own or join a expertly guided tour and see the sights that Jasper has to offer.

Spirit Island Boat Cruise

Photo Tours & Experiences

Helicopter Tours

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Icefields Parkway Tours

Mount Edith Cavell

Wildlife Tours

Train Tours

Maligne Valley Tours

Tours & sightseeing experiences, maligne valley wildlife and waterfalls tour with cruise.

This journey takes us through forty five kilometers of the most spectacular scenery anywhere in the Canadian Rockies.

Jasper to Lake Louise/Banff Sightseeing

This tour is the best way to experience the Icefield Parkway and to see all the sights along the way!

Sunrise Photography Tour

Travel to a nearby choice location to capture golden hour lighting next to one of Jasper's gorgeous lakes or rivers.

The 6 Glacier Helicopter Tour

Get ready for the most packed and incredible 20 minutes of your life!

Icefields Parkway Motorcycle Tour

This tours has been recognized as a "Signature Experience"" by Destination Canada

Maligne Lake Premium Cruise

The 2 hour premium cruise treats you to an extended version of the Classic Cruise with additional time on the lake and at Spirit Island.

Jasper Train Tour-McBride Station

Slightly longer than the Dunster Station tour, offered on different days and in the reverse direction!

Phone Photography Tour

Learn to better use the camera that you always have at hand to capture images wherever you go.

2 Hour Motorcycle Tour

Take a two hour motorcycle tour to one of Jasper's most iconic destinations such as Athabasca Falls, Maligne Canyon, Medicine Lake and more.

1 Hour Motorcycle Tour

Snap an endless stream of photos from the freedom of the sidecar of a powerful Harley Davidson touring motorcycle.

The Complete Columbia Icefields Tour

Our most extensive helicopter tour includes amazing sights you can only see by helicopter.

Discover Jasper and its Wildlife

Big or small, there are lots of animals to see in Jasper!

Night Photography Tour

This 2 hour night photography tour provides the best opportunities for creativity in Jasper's Dark Sky Preserve.

Maligne Valley Sightseeing Tour

This tour is an amazing guided interpretive drive up the Maligne Valley.

Maligne Lake Classic Cruise

Declared the "Best Boat Cruise in Canada” by 8 million Reader’s Digest subscribers, the Maligne Lake Cruise is an experience like no other.

Maligne Valley Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour With Hike

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Develop your photography skills in a 2 hour beginner photography workshop.

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Enhance your next trip to Jasper with something exciting and engaging, Join our telescope tour tonight.

Evening Wildlife Search

Jasper National Park is well known for its abundant wildlife and the evening is an ideal time for viewing.

3 Hour Motorcycle Tour

Take a three hour motorcycle tour to one of two chosen destinations: Maligne Lake or Miette Hot Springs.

Downtown Foodie Tour

Walk in historical downtown Jasper while discovering four local restaurants and enjoy four plates paired with an alcoholic beverage.

Jasper Train Tour-Dunster Station

This amazing Train Journey and Sightseeing Tour starts from the Jasper Train Station and culminates in Dunster, British Columbia.

Wildlife & Hike

A unique Jasper experience where you combine wildlife viewing and hiking on one of our amazing trails.

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New Jasper Food Tours Captures Taste Of The Real Rockies

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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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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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The Ultimate Guide for Getting to and Around Jasper, Alberta

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What’s the best way to get to Jasper, Alberta? Travelling to this mountain town is half the fun! Enjoy world-class scenery and activities en route. Here are your options:

• Take a shuttle, bus tour or chartered private vehicle.
• Ride a luxurious train to this historic railway town.
• Drive yourself and stop whenever you like.

The historic town of Jasper is a gateway for year-round mountain exploration. It will quickly become a favourite during your Alberta visit. Jasper is a half-day trip from two major international airports: Calgary and Edmonton . But this is not your average commute. Be ready to see jaw-dropping scenery, photo-worthy roadside stops and wildlife.

There is no airline access to Jasper, so you can get there by road or rail. It ’s lucky for you — you won’t miss the world-class scenery along the way! Here’s how to get there.

The Icefields Parkway 

One of the most beautiful highways in the world, the Icefields Parkway (Route 93), is a must-see throughway. Open to vehicles year-round, it runs between Lake Louise (near Banff) and Jasper. This road features mountain vistas, gorgeous lakes, glaciated peaks and sweeping valleys.  

The months of May to October are peak season on the Icefields Parkway and in Jasper. This is thanks to the long daylight hours, warm temperatures and the many outdoor activities available. For these reasons, some transportation options are only available in these months. Winter is delightful for its own reasons, and a quieter time to visit the area. (See winter travel tips below.)

Travelling to Jasper by bus or hired car

SunDog Tours

Based in Jasper, SunDog Tours has been offering transportation, tours, and activities to Canadian Rockies visitors since 1997.  

• From Edmonton: The Jasper to Edmonton Connector provides daily shuttles between Jasper and Edmonton International Airport or West Edmonton Mall.  
• From Calgary: The Jasper to Calgary Mountain Connector runs daily from Calgary International Airport and downtown hotels. It has a changeover in Banff.   
• Icefields Parkway Tou r (May through October): Stop at major viewpoints along the way on this tour. You’ll see Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefields and Athabasca Falls. This tour also includes the Columbia Icefield Adventure and Columbia Icefield Skywalk !   
• Private charter services : Customize your travel plans. Private transfers are available for groups between two and 26 people. Your driver comes with a wealth of local knowledge, making the ride insightful and fun.  

Brewster Express 

From Calgary (May through October): Brewster hosts a daily shuttle between Calgary I nternational Airport and Jasper . Note the different pick-up and drop-off locations, which you might use to break up your trip.

Travelling to Jasper by rail 

VIA Rail 

For a cost-effective and comfortable option, opt for VIA Rail . Choose from return trips between Edmonton and Jasper, or routes between Jasper and Vancouver or Prince Rupert. Enjoy on-board dining, complimentary Wi-Fi and a variety of seating options.  

Rocky Mountaineer 

For a luxurious ride to Jasper, book a tour package with Rocky Mountaineer . Enjoy unparalleled onboard hospitality while you journey along scenic rail lines. R outes to and including Jasper range from short two-day trips to multi-day journeys that take you from Calgary all the way to the coast. Packages change seasonally, so be sure to check their options for the latest.  

Travelling to Jasper with your own vehicle 

Driving your own vehicle will provide you with ultimate freedom. Stop along the way and explore Jasper and the provincial and national parks in the area. You can rent vehicles at Calgary and Edmonton International Airports. Or, y ou can get transportation to Banff or Jasper and rent one there.   

Some tips for driving yourself:  

• You’ll need a Parks Canada pass to enter the national parks.  
• Check 511.alberta.ca for road conditions before departing.  
• Leave early to give yourself extra time and a chance to see the sights in daylight.  
• Make sure to leave with a full tank of gas. There are long stretches with no options to refill.  
• Remember: there is no cellular service on the Icefields Parkway.

Winter safety 

Driving to Jasper in the winter is a beautiful experience. Snow softens the landscape and makes for stunning mountain scenery. But it’s important to be prepared for winter driving conditions:  

• Winter tires are mandatory on the Icefields Parkway and recommended for all other roads.   
• Pack snacks, warm clothes and blankets in case of unexpected closures or delays.   
• Dress warmly and wear winter boots so that you can stop along the way and sightsee.

Getting around Jasper  

The adventure doesn’t end once you get to Jasper. A town, National Park and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jasper is defined by raw beauty and rugged wilderness.   

When you arrive, visit the historic Jasper Park Information Centre for all your trip planning needs.  

There are also plenty of options to get around Jasper. Hop on two wheels with Jasper Food Tours for the Bites on E-Bikes Tour . Or, sit back and relax on an open top bus tour with Pursuit . Jasper Transit is another easy and convenient way to get around, with stops in the town of Jasper, Pyramid Lake Resort, Jasper Park Lodge and Lake Annette.

Last modified: Apr 17, 2024

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Bus Jasper to Calgary: Trip Overview

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Based on 434 reviews, the company was rated 4.4 stars on Busbud. Travelers were especially satisfied with the departure location and the cleanliness but often complained with the wifi. Sundog Tours ticket prices on this trip start at $127.00

Sundog Tours Jasper Calgary recent customer reviews

Shawn was professional and knowledgeable. Was a great trip despite the road conditions

Very efficient, and lovely drivers. Nothing was too much trouble

Staff was very professional and helpful from the beginning to the end of my trip!! Bus was on time. I would strongly recommend Sundog!!

Jasper to Calgary Buses

With Busbud, comparing and booking tickets for a bus from Jasper to Calgary is a breeze. Browse through an extensive selection of bus fares and bus schedules to find the best deals.

Bus service from Jasper to Calgary will be provided by the most trusted bus companies.

Discover how much the bus trip from Jasper to Calgary will cost you. Use our filters and sorting features to find the cheapest bus tickets or luxury buses.

Information on this bus route

Frequently asked questions for your trip jasper - calgary, how can i travel from jasper to calgary without a car.

The bus is the best choice to get to Calgary without a car. The bus provides a cost-effective, safe, and easy way to travel between the two cities. Taking a ride with other travelers through carpool services is an additional option to consider.

How long does it take to get to Calgary from Jasper by bus?

The travel time from Jasper to Calgary is about 8h 15m, but the fastest bus can get you there in about 7h 45m. This is the time it takes to travel the 212 miles (342 km) that separate the two cities.

What is the travel distance from Jasper to Calgary?

About 212 miles (342 km) separate Jasper and Calgary.

What is the number of daily buses traveling from Jasper to Calgary?

You can choose from 12 travel times and travel with Sundog Tours. Depending on the day of the week, the number of buses available from Jasper to Calgary may vary. Want to make your bus journey from Jasper to Calgary as effortless as possible? Busbud has got you covered! Browse schedules, pick the perfect bus for your travel style and budget - all in one place.

What are the departure times for the first and last bus traveling from Jasper to Calgary?

The Sundog Tours bus travels from Jasper to Calgary only once a day, at 8:15 AM.

What is the most cost-effective way to travel from Jasper to Calgary?

You can save a lot of money on your trip from Jasper to Calgary by choosing to travel by bus. With prices starting at $127, you won't find a more affordable way to get there.

How much are the bus tickets from Jasper to Calgary?

The average price of a one-way ticket from Jasper to Calgary is $128. In the past 30 days, prices have fluctuated between $127 and $130, so it's best to compare them to make sure you get the best deal.

What are the best sights and things to do in Calgary?

Once in Calgary, you can start exploring the city and discover its surroundings. The top sights and things to do are Downhill Karting by Skyline Luge Calgary, Calgary Tower, Canada's Sports Hall of Fame, Fort Calgary and VRKADE.

Find cheapest prices for buses

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Jasper to Calgary, as early as possible.

You can expect to pay from $117 to $118 for a bus ticket from Jasper to Calgary based on the last 1 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at $117 which is on 2024-04-22.

About Bus Travel

Bus travel tips.

Meet and talk to locals at the bus stations while traveling from Jasper to Calgary.There is no better way to get inside travel information while exploring a new city than to go straight to its people.

Much more than a mere vehicle taking you from Jasper to Calgary, riding the bus will expose you to some of the most stunning panoramas while enroute to your final bus stop.

Buses have one of the smallest carbon footprints of motorized transport modes. A bus going from Jasper to Calgary will emit less CO2 than a car or an airplane.

Make a music playlist for your bus ride from Jasper to Calgary, and enjoy the scenery to tunes from your own personal soundtrack.

Did you know?

One of the longest bus route in the world goes all the way from Ontario to Alberta in Canada (with the same bus). This trip is 3,435 km or 2,135 miles long and the price is a bit under $100.

The average number of passengers on a coach bus is 32 meaning that a bus could replace a minimum of at least 30 cars!

Did you know that 80% of the buses in North America are equipped with WiFi and power outlets ? And 60% of bus travelers have used their electronic device on board during 2014.

Will you be returning to Jasper by bus?

Top traveled bus routes.

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Busbud.com makes it easy for you to find, compare and book city-to-city bus tickets, all over the world. We save you the extra trip to the bus station. Use Busbud to book your trip online, in your own language and currency, wherever you are. Busbud partners with safe and reliable bus companies throughout the world such as Greyhound, Eurolines, ALSA, OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus), National Express and many others so you can buy tickets without a worry.

Popular Buses Connecting Jasper

Buses leaving from jasper.

• Bus from Jasper to Edmonton
• Bus Jasper - Banff
• Jasper - Calgary
• Bus from Jasper to Lake Louise
• Bus Jasper - Kamloops
• Jasper - Valemount
• Bus from Jasper to Canmore
• Bus Jasper - Mount Robson
• Jasper - Hinton
• Bus from Jasper to Prince George
• Bus Jasper - Kelowna
• Jasper - Athabasca
• Bus from Jasper to Edson
• Bus Jasper - Vancouver
• Jasper - Grande Prairie

Buses Going to Jasper

• Bus from Edmonton to Jasper
• Bus Banff - Jasper
• Calgary - Jasper
• Bus from Lake Louise to Jasper
• Bus Vancouver - Jasper
• Canmore - Jasper
• Bus from Kamloops to Jasper
• Bus Hinton - Jasper
• Prince Rupert - Jasper
• Bus from Grande Prairie to Jasper
• Bus Houston - Jasper
• Toronto - Jasper
• Bus from Agassiz to Jasper
• Bus Edson - Jasper
• Athabasca - Jasper

Popular Buses Connecting Calgary

Buses leaving from calgary.

• Bus from Calgary to Vancouver
• Bus Calgary - Canmore
• Calgary - Lethbridge
• Bus from Calgary to Red Deer
• Bus Calgary - Saskatoon
• Bus from Calgary to Revelstoke
• Bus Calgary - Lake Louise
• Calgary - Golden
• Bus from Calgary to Regina
• Bus Calgary - Kelowna
• Calgary - Medicine Hat
• Bus from Calgary to Grande Prairie
• Bus Calgary - Salmon Arm
• Calgary - Fort McMurray

Buses Going to Calgary

• Bus from Vancouver to Calgary
• Bus Fort McMurray - Calgary
• Red Deer - Calgary
• Bus from Canmore to Calgary
• Bus Saskatoon - Calgary
• Lethbridge - Calgary
• Bus from Lake Louise to Calgary
• Bus Medicine Hat - Calgary
• Bus from Toronto to Calgary
• Bus Abbotsford - Calgary
• Regina - Calgary
• Bus from Revelstoke to Calgary
• Bus Golden - Calgary
• Kamloops - Calgary

Popular routes in this country

• Bus from Ottawa to Toronto
• Bus Montreal - Toronto
• Montreal - Ottawa
• Bus from Ottawa to Montreal
• Bus Toronto - Niagara Falls
• Toronto - London
• Bus from Banff to Calgary
• Bus Toronto - Quebec City
• Vancouver - Whistler
• Bus from Quebec City to Montreal
• Bus Toronto - Greater Sudbury
• Fort McMurray - Edmonton
• Bus from Toronto to Kingston
• Bus Edmonton - Fort McMurray
• Vancouver - Toronto

Getting To Jasper

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• # bus to jasper
• # calgary to jasper
• # edmonton to jasper
• # edson to jasper
• # getting to jasper
• # hinton to jasper
• # tour to jasper
• # train to jasper

By Erin Reade

My Trip from Edmonton Airport to Jasper was great! The driver was nice and friendly. Got me to where I needed to be around the time expected and I was picked up on time. The drive into Jasper was pretty cool with what I got to see out the window. I would travel with Sundog again. Thanks! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – TRIPADVISOR USER, SEPTEMBER 20TH 2022

Getting to Jasper on your own can be challenging. What’s the safest way to get to Jasper? Do you have a vehicle that can handle the road conditions? How can you get the most of your time in Jasper, and still make it home in the daylight? These are questions that a lot of people have. Thankfully, there is one easy option that solves all your transportation to Jasper needs: Sundog Tours.

Below we’ve listed all the various departure cities from which you can catch a Sundog Tours bus or train to Jasper. Hop on, relax, and enjoy the view.

Please enjoy this 5 minute read.

Quick Navigation

Getting To Jasper Without Your Own Vehicle

• Pickups at Edmonton Airport, Downton Edmonton, West Edmonton Mall, Edson, and Hinton
• Pickups at Downtown Calgary Hotels, Calgary Airport, Banff, and Lake Louise
• Pickups across Western Canada.  You choose the time and the location.

The Edmonton To Jasper Mountain Connector

365 – that’s how many kilometers are in between Edmonton and Jasper, and how many days of the year we drive those kilometers for you.  Our Edmonton To Jasper Mountain Connector runs 7 days a week all year long, getting you to Jasper with comfort, convenience, and confidence.

Heading to Jasper from Edmonton?  The SunDog Mountain Connector is there for you.  The Edmonton To Jasper Bus offers reliable daily transportation between Edmonton, Edson, Hinton and Jasper.

Getting to Jasper directly from the Edmonton Airport?  The Edmonton To Jasper Mountain Connector leaves YVR at 3:15pm, 7 days week, 365 days a year (weather permitting).

The Calgary To Jasper Mountain Connector

The drive from Calgary to Jasper along the world famous Icefield’s Parkway is absolutely spectacular. Sometimes rated the most scenic drive in the world , the breathtaking 5 hour trip is included in National Geographic ‘s Drives Of A Lifetime list and was No. 16 on their World’s Most Beautiful Places list.

We get to drive you through this epic landscape, 7 days a week, all winter long. How lucky are we?

The Calgary to Jasper Mountain Connector takes you from Downtown Calgary or the Calgary Airport, stops for pickups in Banff and Lake Louise, and brings you through the Icefields Parkway on route to beautiful Jasper.

This Calgary to Jasper Bus service offers convenient and comfortable transportation from Calgary to Jasper from October until the end of April. Reserve your Calgary To Jasper Mountain Connector today and get ready for the drive of a lifetime.

Private Charter Services

Do you need bus or car transportation between Jasper and any of these locations – Edmonton, Calgary, Banff or Lake Louise? SunDog has a direct, stress free private charter services tailor-made to you and your group. Vehicle sizes for groups of 2 to 26, convenient and at your leisure. Check out our rates below based on group size then Book now, fill out  our charter request form  or  contact us  for a quote. Take the stress out of travel with a private vehicle and driver.

SunDog Tour Co. provides private charter vehicle services throughout the Canadian Rockies and Western Canada. Whether it is a meet & greet service and transfer from the airport or train station, a multi-day sightseeing tour or a corporate function, we have professional driver / guides and a modern, meticulously maintained fleet of vehicles that will help make your time in the mountains incredible.

YOUR SCHEDULE

You choose the time and the location. No need to wait for anyone, just you and your group. Let our team of travel experts help you plan the trip of a lifetime!

LUXURY VEHICLES

We take pride in having one of the most modern, well-maintained and diverse fleets of vehicles in the industry.  

FRIENDLY KNOWLEDGEABLE DRIVER/GUIDES

Our driver/guides live and play in the Rockies. Their enthusiasm is contagious. Meet a local and learn about the beautiful place we call home. 

Thanks for reading! Do you think your friends would find these tips useful? Please share this link with them:

https://sundogtours.com/getting-to-jasper

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Book a Jasper adventure with SunDog Tours today. Contact us to get started!

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Shakira 2024 tour: dates, presale, ticket sales, and concert venues in the United States

T he moment Shakira’s fans have been waiting for has arrived. The Colombian superstar finally announced the first dates for her Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour ( Women no longer cry). The news was released this Tuesday, just days after thrilling her fans with the announcement of her upcoming tour on stage at Coachella , where she arrived as a surprise special guest of Argentine producer Bizarrap.

The singer of Pies Descalzos revealed the first 14 dates of the tour, which will kick off in the United States and Canada. The first show will be on November 2nd in Palm Desert, California, and will close on December 15th in Detroit, Michigan.

One of the most anticipated comebacks to the stage in 2024 was Shakira’s. Since the release of her new album , her fans around the world have placed tracks like “Shakira: Bzrp Music Sessions, Vol. 53″ and “TQG,” featuring Karol G, in Spotify’s global Top 50. Last year, this music streaming platform noted that her collaboration with the Argentine Bizarrap became the Spanish song with the most streams in a single day in history.

Shakira’s concerts in the United States and Canada

The new tour of the singer from Barranquilla has been marked by moments full of surprises, such as her appearance on the Jimmy Fallon show, the free concert she offered in Times Square, and the revelation at Coachella.

The series of concerts in the United States will begin in November, and Shakira’s tour will include the states of California, Arizona, Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Washington, Ontario, Quebec, New York, Massachusetts, Illinois, and Michigan.

• November 2: Palm Desert (Acrisure Arena)
• November 7: Phoenix (Footprint Center)
• November 9: Los Angeles (Kia Forum)
• November 16: San Antonio (Frost Bank Center)
• November 17: Dallas (American Airlines Center)
• November 20: Miami (Kaseya Center)
• November 23: Charlotte (Spectrum Center)
• November 25: Washington, DC (Capital One Arena)
• November 30: Toronto (Scotiabank Arena)
• December 5: Brooklyn (Barclays Center)
• December 8: Boston (TD Garden)
• December 10: Montreal (Bell Centre)
• December 14: Chicago (United Center)
• December 15: Detroit (Little Caesars Arena)

How can I buy tickets for the tour in the United States?

Through social media, Shakira announced that official tickets for the Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran World Tour will be available starting today, Wednesday, April 17th, on Ticketmaster . On this occasion, tickets can be purchased through a presale for Citi cardholders and are limited to a maximum of six per user.

The regular presale will take place on Friday, April 19th, at 10 a.m., and to gain access, it’s necessary to pre-register for the Wolfpack at Shakira.com . General sale will be on Monday, April 22nd.

How much do tickets cost?

In the United States, the ticket prices vary in each state. During the Citi presale tickets, the most exclusive areas range from $530 to $1,019 plus taxes. These tickets include benefits such as reserved front-row seats, exclusive merchandise, a meet-and-greet, and a photo opportunity with Shakira. For general tickets, prices range from $100 in some cities to $350 plus taxes.

On social media, the singer shared that, in less than two hours, the presale tickets for Citi members are almost sold out in Brooklyn, Miami, San Antonio, Chicago, Dallas, and Washington.

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Charli XCX and Troye Sivan Team Up for Massive, Co-Headlining Sweat Tour Across North America

The British avant-pop artist and the Australian hitmaker will be hitting the road together across the U.S. and Canada in fall 2024

Don Arnold/WireImage, Karwai Tang/WireImage

Charli XCX and Troye Sivan are about to transform arenas across North America into raves from "1999."

The British hyperpop phenom, 31, and the Aussie pop star, 28, announced on Wednesday, April 17 that they're going on a joint headlining tour in 2024 titled Charli XCX & Troye Sivan present: Sweat. The run of 21 shows is a highly anticipated effort among fans of the two stars, who have long been friends and frequent collaborators.

The hitmakers — who collaborated on "1999" and "2099" off the 2019 album Charli — will play a handful arenas across the U.S. and Canada in the fall. The "Von Dutch" singer and the "Rush" singer will hit the road together in mid-September, kicking off Sweat in Detroit on Sept. 14.

Harley Weir

The superstars will play throughout September and into October, eventually wrapping up on Oct. 23 in Seattle. They'll make stops at iconic venues like New York City's Madison Square Garden and Los Angeles' Kia Forum, in addition to major cities like Philadelphia, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco and others.

Charli XCX and Sivan will also bringing along a special opening act: the British alt-hip-hop/electronic star Shygirl .

Stuart Winecoff

According to a press release, fans can expect the "Vroom Vroom" artist and the "One of Your Girls" singer to turn "venues into raves."

Their co-headlining concerts are set to feature "exhilarating performances, stunning visuals, and infectious beats," and act as "a testament to their commitment to inclusivity and diversity within the music industry," per the release.

Both of the avant-pop musicians shared a tour teaser on Instagram . The brief clip features flashing imagery of the two singers, along with minimalist, brightly colored posters with the tour dates that appear to be inspired by rave flyers.

Sweat comes nearly one year after Sivan released his acclaimed, third studio album Something to Give Each Other in October 2023. The project's lead single, " Rush ," garnered to nominations for best pop dance recording at best dance video at the 2024 Grammys .

The upcoming string of live dates will also come on the heels of the release of Charli XCX's new album Brat , which is due out on Friday, June 7.

The Pop 2 artist kicked off the album release cycle of her follow up to 2022's Crash in late February when she dropped "Von Dutch." Since then, she's released a remix of the track featuring Addison Rae and her longtime producer A.G. Cook, as well as the singles "Club classics" and "B2b."

Live Nation

Sweat won't be the only time Charli XCX is hitting the road this year. In addition to a handful of festival dates this spring and summer, she'll also be playing a short stint of headlining gigs in support of the release of Brat in N.Y.C., Chicago, Los Angeles, Mexico City and São Paulo in June.

Once the singer-songwriter's dates with Sivan wrap, she'll also embark on an arena tour of the U.K. in late November and early December to close out 2024.

Tickets to Sweat kick off with a presale. Fans are able to register for the advanced ticket sale now until Thursday, April 25 at sweat-tour.com . The artist presale will then kick off on Thursday, April 25 at 10 a.m. local time.

The general ticket sale will follow on Friday, April 26 at 10 a.m. local time on LiveNation.com .

See the full list of dates for Charli XCX and Troye Sivan Present Sweat below.

Sat Sep 14 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena  

Mon Sep 16 – Laval, QC – Place Bell  

Wed Sep 18 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena  

Fri Sep 20 – Columbus, OH – Nationwide Arena  

Mon Sep 23 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden  

Wed Sep 25 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center  

Thu Sep 26 – Baltimore, MD – CFG Bank Arena  

Sat Sep 28 – Boston, MA – TD Garden  

Mon Sep 30 – Chicago, IL – United Center  

Wed Oct 02 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena  

Thu Oct 03 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena  

Sat Oct 05 – Miami, FL – Kaseya Center  

Sun Oct 06 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center  

Wed Oct 09 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center  

Fri Oct 11 – Denver, CO – Ball Arena  

Sun Oct 13 – Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center  

Tue Oct 15 – Los Angeles, CA – Kia Forum  

Fri Oct 18 – San Diego, CA – Viejas Arena  

Sun Oct 20 – San Francisco, CA – Chase Center  

Tue Oct 22 – Portland, OR – Moda Center  

Wed Oct 23 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena  

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