road trip from vancouver to banff in winter

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Vancouver to Banff Road Trip (Winter)

Last update: January 10th, 2024 at 08:56 am

Affiliate Disclosure:   This Vancouver to Banff roadtrip post contains affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no cost to you .  All opinions are entirely my own.

Who on earth decides to do a Vancouver to Banff road trip in the winter? People like us! There are few things our family loves more than filling our car with gear and hitting the open road for a grand winter adventure.

For some context, my husband and I were both born and raised on winter trips into the B.C. mountains. He (our primary road trip driver) practically cut his driving teeth on the treacherous old highway to Whistler.

For us, piling into the car and heading into the hills in search of snow is nothing new. These adventures are such a tradition in our family that even our hard-to-please teens are fully on-board and can’t wait to hit the highway.

Table of Contents

Winter Driving in B.C. – The Need to Know

Before I get into our itinerary on driving from Vancouver to Banff in the winter, I want to point out that driving on B.C. winter roads is not for the inexperienced.

While sometimes you do get lucky with blue skies and dry roads, this is the exception, not the rule. More often than not, there are a least some sections that are icy, snowy, or even a little scary.

Before hitting the road, please read the following winter driving tips:

• Make sure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires (with snowflake symbol or M&S). Alternatively, carry chains and know how to put them on . Winter tires or chains are required on most B.C. roads and highways from Oct. 1st to Apr. 30th (some coastal regions and cities such as Vancouver are excluded from this rule).
• Pre-plan your route using the DriveBC website/app. Make sure you are aware of any weather events, construction or road closures along your route. In many areas of BC you will not have a cell signal, so planning on the fly can be difficult. When you do have cell coverage en route, check for new updates and travel advisories ( @drivebc / waze.com ).
• Plan to stay well fueled up. It is not unusual to find yourself stopped on the road for a while as closures can happen without warning. It is much less stressful when your fuel dial is hovering near “F” rather than “E” in sub-zero temperatures. (Although we own an EV, we do not take it on winter trips. The battery depletes far too quickly for our comfort level when having to run defrost, heat etc.)
• Make sure you have appropriate winter clothing, footwear, extra food and water in the event that you do get stuck somewhere. Does this really actually happen? Rarely, but yes it can. (See personal story at the bottom of this post.)
• Ensure your vehicle is in great working order and top up your wiper washer fluid. (I try to time my annual car servicing to be done in the fall before we head out on one of our big road trips.)
• Plan your driving schedule around daylight hours. The roads are maintained more frequently (plowing etc.) during the day and you also don’t want to miss out on all of that amazing scenery. The sun sets before 5pm in the deep of winter at this latitude. You also lose an hour as you cross over from BC into Alberta .
• Always watch for wildlife while on route. Honestly, I’m simply mad for wildlife and rarely see anything (and I’m always looking)…but there’s stuff out there for sure. Check out these Bighorn Sheep in Radium Hot Springs!

The Vancouver to Banff Drive

So why drive from Vancouver to Banff in the winter? Honestly, if you just want to see Banff, it is much easier (and shorter) to fly into Calgary, rent a car , and drive west from there.

You can do the 145km drive from the airport in less than 2 hours (with decent road conditions). We have taken this route before as part of a Powder Highway winter ski trip (visiting Banff, Fernie, Kimberley and Panorama) and found it to be relatively easy.

If, however, you are looking for a grander winter trip, and view “getting there” as part of the fun, then a Vancouver to Banff driving adventure might just be for you. I know for us (with limited travels due to the pandemic), we were just itching to get out of the Vancouver rain. For us, hitting the road and enjoying B.C.’s beautiful winter scenery was as much of a vacation as visiting Banff itself.

Note: In a perfect world, we would do this trip over a week. With kids in high school however, we did this road trip from Vancouver to Banff (return) in a very rushed fashion – 4 nights/4.5 days (leaving after school on day one).

Normally, to drive Vancouver to Banff, we would take a direct route of Vancouver – Kamloops – Banff and return back the same way. (We would overnight on the way in and out at hotels in Kamloops and Revelstoke respectively.)

In the case of this trip, however, the #1 Hwy between Golden and Banff was closed for road work, so we did a circuitous route going Vancouver – Kamloops – Jasper – Banff – Revelstoke – Vancouver.

Although longer and less direct, the beauty of this route was that it allowed for us to drive the absolutely stunning (and must-see) Icefields Parkway from Jasper to Banff (Hwy. 93) without backtracking.

Note on Timing: We did this Vancouver to Banff driving trip in November when snow was just beginning to fall in the Rockies. What was nice about this timing, was that we could see many of the gorgeous natural features along the route (Athabasca Falls, Lake Louise etc.) almost entirely crowd-free.

In a perfect world, however, I would have preferred to do this trip a little later in the season when we could hit some of the ski mountains. Along our route we had Sun Peaks, Lake Louise, Sunshine, Kicking Horse and Revelstoke which were all on the cusp of opening! If we had waited a month, the lakes would also have been frozen enough to go ice skating.

Vancouver to Kamloops

354 km / 4 – 5.5 hrs

While I don’t love Kamloops, we made it our first overnight stop on our Vancouver to Banff road trip. The drive from Vancouver took us about five hours (with good conditions on the Coquihalla but lots of traffic out of Vancouver).

Kamloops is a reasonable place to stop as it is an approximate half way mark on the Vancouver to Banff drive. It is also big enough to have some okay chain hotels and some decent restaurants.

We have stayed at both The Coast and The Sandman Signature during overnight visits to Kamloops. While neither is abundant with character, the service is pleasant and the rooms are just fine (both have indoor pools as well).

See the Top Hotels in Kamloops from Booking.com!

Things to do in kamloops.

Honestly, not so much. When a ferry ride is on Tripadvisor’s top 10 list of things to do in a city, I say move along.

Kamloops to Jasper

441 km / 5 – 6 hrs

Here is where the spectacular scenery begins. If you have the time, make your first stop Helmcken Falls Lookout in Clearwater’s Wells Grey Provincial Park (123km from Kamloops). The falls are only a 5 minute walk from the parking lot.

If you have more time, there are also some nice hikes in the park including the Helmcken Falls Rim Trail (2-3 hours return). See Alltrails.com for hike details. Just be prepared for winter conditions on the trails ( ice cleats and trekking poles highly recommended).

While rare, in the deep of winter, you may even get to see the falls descending into a snow cone!

From Clearwater, you continue driving on to Valemont. For years, Valemount has been touted as home to B.C.’s next great ski resort. From what I have read however, it seem investors are a little skittish. It remains to be seen whether this elaborate winter playground will ever come to be.

Shortly after passing through Valemount, you will connect on to Hwy. 16 East. If skies are favourable, the majestic Mount Robson will come into view.

For me, this view made the 780+ kilometres that we had already traveled 100% worth it! Outside of being simply stunning, Mt. Robson holds the distinction of being the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies (#21 in Canada).

Mount Robson Provincial Park has some beautiful trails, but please be aware that there can be closures during the winter if conditions are unsafe. Please see Mount Robson Provincial Park for current status.

Shortly after leaving this area, you will enter Jasper National Park. To visit Canada’s national parks, you must have a Parks Canada Discovery Pass . They can be purchased at the booth as you enter the park or you can pre-purchase one online ahead of time.

Our Discovery Pass took only a few days to arrive by mail.The pass is good for 1 year and can be used in more than 80 national parks across Canada. In the B.C. Rockies you have four that you can visit (Jasper, Banff, Yoho and Kootenay).

Note: Keep an eye on the time. As you pass through Jasper National Park, you move from British Columbia into Alberta and from Pacific Mountain Time onto Mountain Standard Time (losing one hour).

While we only stopped for a quick lunch in Jasper, I would highly recommend staying the night so that you can can have a full day to enjoy the Icefields Parkway Drive between Jasper and Banff.

There are a couple of cozy places to stay in Jasper including the Pyramid Lake Resort and the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

See More Jasper Hotels on Booking.com!

Things to do in jasper.

If you have more time, popular winter activities in Jasper include sleigh rides, dog sledding, ice skating (Mildred or Pyramid lake), snowshoeing, ice climbing and more. See a full list of Jasper winter activities on the Tourism Jasper website .

Jasper can also be a great spot to see the Northern Lights. Jasper is a designated Dark Sky Preserve (“an area in which no artificial light is present”). The town has a wonderful planetarium as well as year-round events to celebrate the skies (photography tours etc.).

See also: 5 Tips on Seeing the Aurora Borealis in Jasper

Jasper to Banff – The Icefields Parkway

288km, 4-7 hrs

If you haven’t encountered much in the way of winter driving conditions yet on your Vancouver to Banff drive, you probably will here. Before setting out to drive Jasper to Banff along the Icefields Parkway, please remember the following tips.

Tips for Driving the Icefields Parkway

• Make sure your vehicle has good winter tires or chains (M&S / Snowflake symbol). They are required on the Parkway from Nov. 1st – Apr. 1st.
• Before setting out, check your route (Hwy. 93) for road advisories on the 511 Alberta website.
• Gas up. You will be driving through two national parks (no towns) and you will have little to no cellular phone reception.
• Make sure you have ample snacks, water and proper clothing in case you get delayed on the road.
• Give yourself lots of time. While the drive can be done in as little as 3.5 hours, you’ll want double that to enjoy the sights fully.
• Drive during the day when you have better visibility. Snow plows operate on the Parkway between between 7am and 3:30pm only.
• Remember that in the winter months you will be losing daylight fast from about 4pm.

See also: Tips for driving the Icefields Parkway from Parks Canada

What to See Along the Icefields Parkway

Note: In freezing conditions, the trails and parking lots along this route can get very slippery. Once again, I strongly recommend ice cleats to go over your shoes or boots. We bought inexpensive Icetrax V3s and they were perfect for this trip.

Athabasca Falls

From Jasper, your first must-see is Athabasca Falls (30km from Jasper). The beauty of visiting spots like this in winter is that there are way less tourists. (We didn’t see a single tour bus!) Follow the short trail to see these gorgeous 23m falls from several vantage points.

Sunwapta Falls

Just a little further along you reach Sunwapa falls (55km from Jasper). You can reach the upper lookout for these beautiful 18m falls via a short walk from the parking lot. The lower falls can be reached after following a 1.3km trail through the pine forest.

Continue on enjoying the scenery of Hwy 93 until you reach Bow Lake (195km from Jasper). Follow the signs to Num-Ti-Jah Lodge parking lot (lodge closed in the winter). Some people compare the views here to Lake Louise – but without the crowds.

Lake Louise

A final major stop along this route is the gorgeous Lake Louise (232km from Jasper / 57 km from Banff). You can opt to just pop down to the lakeside lookout for that classic Instagram shot or enjoy a longer stroll along the Lakeside Trail (4.5km in and back).

In the deep of winter, you can also skate on the froze lake. Skate rentals (and other gear) are available just to the right inside the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Prefer to enjoy a beautiful view while staying warm and cozy? The Chateau Lake Louise is truly an exceptional beauty and is a worthy place to while away an afternoon. Book at table at the Lakeview Lounge for afternoon tea service, lunch or just a fancy coffee or cocktail.

Tip: Make a reservation for the Lakeview Lounge in advance on OpenTable.com . We were able to avoid a 45 minute wait by booking just a few a hours ahead of time (and that was in low season)!

If you would prefer to stay a while, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise makes for a perfect base for a few days to enjoy snowshoeing, skiing/snowboarding (at nearby Lake Louise Ski Resort), sleigh rides and more!

Check rates for the Fairmont Lake Louise here.

Banff is definitely a worthy winter destination to spend a few days. Stroll the picturesque Main Street (I’ve just made the photo below my iPhone background,) enjoy fabulous meals at the numerous eateries around town, and be sure to get out to enjoy the great outdoors.

Things to do in Banff

Winter activities in Banff include visiting the world-famous hot springs, dog-sledding, snowshoeing, winter hikes, ice skating, and of course, skiing/snowboarding. While making your base Banff for a few days, your can visit The Big 3 ski mountains – Banff Sunshine, Lake Louise and Mt. Norquay.

See a full list of Things to do in Banff here .

Where to Stay in Banff

While a splurge, we really enjoy the grand experience of staying at the castle-like Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel . Even just exploring the property feels like a full vacation experience with its great restaurants, beautiful pool and spa,outdoor ice skating rink (seasonal) and much more!

Note: The one thing I will caution about the Fairmont Banff Springs (as much as I love it) is that many of the rooms are quite small (unless you can upgrade to a suite). If you would prefer more space, take a peek at The Moose and The Peaks Hotel (both get great reviews).

See More Banff Hotels on Booking.com!

Banff to revelstoke.

283km – 4+ hrs driving time

Follow Hwy #1 north to Lake Louise and then west towards Golden and Revelstoke. Take your time, as you can expect winter road conditions and occasion closures. (Again, use the Drive BC website/app before hitting the road.)

If Hwy. #1 is closed between Lake Louise and Golden (as happened to us on this trip), you will likely be re-routed south through Radium Hot Springs. For us, this added 100km and about 90 minutes to our drive.

Radium Hot Springs

Want a little break in Radium? Pop by their pretty hot spring pools that are uniquely built right into the mountainside. They have swimsuit and towel rentals in a pinch. See website for more details.

Note : Keep an eye out for wildlife on the roads (always) but especially in Radium Hot Springs where Bighorn Sheep congregate. It is actually my favourite thing about Radium!

Golden is a great place to break for lunch on the way to Revelstoke ( Whitetooth Bistro and Reposados Tacos are both good). It is also home to one of our favourite B.C. ski mountains, Kicking Horse , if you have the luxury of more time.

Even if you don’t ski or board, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort has a very special restaurant up top called the Eagle’s Eye . This can be accessed by gondola and offers beautiful views of the Purcell Mountains.

See Golden Hotels on Booking.com!

Rogers Pass Golden to Revelstoke

150km – 2+ hrs

Rogers Pass offers some of the most spectacular scenery in the B.C. Rockies but the road conditions here can be challenging. Check the Drive BC website/app before heading into the pass as closure happen frequently.

Drive this section in daylight hours, not only because it is safer, but also so you can enjoy the gorgeous views of Glacier National Park.

Note: As you pass through Rogers Pass, you go from Mountain Time to Pacific Time, gaining an hour. (Golden, BC is actually in the same time zone as Alberta.)

If you have followed my website for a while, you will know that Revelstoke is absolutely our family’s favourite B.C. mountain town. It has such a fabulous balance of B.C. heritage charm coupled with the perfect smattering of good restaurants and hotels.

We are also huge fans of Revelstoke Mountain Resort – home to North America’s longest vertical. We try to squeeze in at least one trip per winter season.

Things to do in Revelstoke

Now of course, Revelstoke has much more to offer in the winter than just skiing/snowboarding. It is also a popular spot for snowshoeing tours, snowmobiling, nordic skiing and more.

See a full list of Revelstoke winter activities on SeeRevelstoke.com .

Where to Stay in Revelstoke

While in Revelstoke, we enjoy staying at Explorers Society boutique hotel in town (#2 Boutique Hotel in Canada according to Tripadvisor 2021 .) It has gorgeous rooms, a beautiful rooftop lounge and hot tub, as well as one of the town’s top restaurants ( The Quartermaster Eatery ).

If we are skiing, we like to stay right on the mountain at the ski in/ski out Sutton Place Hotel . That said, Revelstoke is small and all of the hotels are within a 15 minute drive of the mountain gondola.

See More Revelstoke Hotels on Booking.com!

Do make sure you pop by La Baguette at least once during your stay for coffee, baked goods or to visit their wonderful gourmet store!

Revelstoke to Vancouver

565km / 6-7 hrs

Revelstoke to Vancouver is always a bit of a grind for us. Our vacation is basically over and now we just want to get home and get the laundry on!

That said, we still try to take our time as the conditions can be challenging. This was what the road looked like as we left Revelstoke (November). Still, with good snow tires and by taking our time, this section was fine. Little did we know, however, that the real driving adventure was about to begin…

An Atmospheric River

Ironically, although we followed winter driving rules in B.C. absolutely to the letter (in part, because I wanted to write a post about safe winter driving in B.C. ), we still had some major issues on our drive home from Revelstoke to Vancouver. It is a drive we have done many times in winter conditions…but this was quite different.

From weather reports, we knew that a lot of rain was coming, which in itself isn’t that unusual. What was unusual however, was that fact that we would end up being caught up in what is now a familiar term to most B.C. residents – the Atmospheric River (a.k.a Pineapple Express).

While we knew this meant bucket-loads of rain, nobody (including DriveBC) was adequately prepared for the destruction it would leave in its wake. Between the copious amounts of rain, warm temperatures melting the snowpack above, and mountainsides stripped of vegetation due to forest fires earlier in the year – it was like the mountains just dissolved into rivers of mud. The storm left behind a path of destruction that included wiping out major sections of highway and catastrophic flooding that destroyed towns and farms.

We did manage to get home safely, in 10 hours rather than 6, hop-scotching our way home as highways closed one after another due to flooding and mudslides. It was not the DriveBC website however, that helped us get home safely. They were reporting incidents much too late (I think they were simply overwhelmed).

It was the BC and AB truckers I started following on Twitter that provided the up-to-date information and photos that let us know what was still open and what problems lay ahead. We were able to narrowly get through the worst sections of highway before two mudslides trapped dozens of cars on a section of road overnight and trapped other people in the town of Hope for 4 days.

I share this story not because I think this will happen to you. The whole situation on the roads was such a dangerous mess, and such a wakeup call for B.C., that I don’t think it will happen again. (They would shut the highways down first as should have been done in this situation.) Anyone on these roads that day, however, will not forget it and knows exactly why it’s important to make sure you pack your car in anticipation of possibly getting stuck on the road overnight.

I hope I didn’t scare you off taking a trip like this. I just want you to be prepared. Pack the right gear, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready and you should be good to go. It actually feels great to know that you can tackle almost any situation that might come your way.

Have a Question? Hearing from other travelers is the thing I love most about this job. If you have a question or a comment, please feel free to reach out to me via the comment field below or by email ( Contact Us on the upper menu).

Related Posts

• A Guide to Revelstoke Mountain Resort
• B.C. Kootenays Summer Road Trip Guide
• 5 Best Road Trips From Vancouver
• Bella Coola, B.C. in Bear Watching Season

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One Response

Susan tookey.

Hi Loved your article. I am headed to Vancouver from England to stay with my son for a few weeks. My friend and I are looking to hire a car and drive to Banff on to Jasper and back to Vancouver.Having read you article you travel from Vancouver to Jasper and back. Is this a better way round….any hints and tips and advice on places to see and stay would be much appreciated.Were planning on doing this trip from the 9th to the 16th June . looking forward to hearing back from you. Best wishes Susan

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Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary: 3 Epic Routes

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Dreaming of an epic Canadian Rockies road trip? You will LOVE this post. We are sharing a detailed Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary for 7 to 14 days. This drive covers 3 national parks, 2-4 cities, and many small towns in British Columbia and Alberta.

We have been exploring the Rockies for a decade now, and have visited in different seasons. You will get a glimpse of how the landscape looks throughout the year, with useful travel tips to help plan your trip! (You will also see me grow over the past 10 years through this post – haha!)

So let’s get started!

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary: Distance, national park fees, driving conditions

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Vancouver to Banff National Park distance is 847 km or 526.3 miles, one way. If you drive non-stop, it takes about 9.50 to 10 hours to complete. 

There are quite a few national and provincial parks along the way, with beautiful small towns, waterfalls, trails, and pristine lakes that you can explore. 

Vancouver is located in the Canadian province of British Columbia, and Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper National Parks are in Alberta.

An ideal road trip to cover all the national parks in this part of the Rockies should be for 10 days. 14 days is better for returning the vehicle (car rental) to Calgary and flying from Alberta. Or if you are a BC resident, you can set aside one day to drive back.

Kamloops is sort of like the midpoint of this itinerary – whichever way you are starting in Calgary/Banff, Edmonton/Jasper, or from Vancouver/Whistler. 

We live in Edmonton and have embarked on a lot of road trips with various permutations and combinations, and we will share the BEST route possible to maximize your time at the Canadian Rockies!

Vancouver to Banff Drive in a nutshell

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary 14 days 

• Day 1-2 : Vancouver (2 nights)
• Day 3 : Squamish
• Day 4 : Whistler
• Day 5 : Kamloops (1 night)
• Day 6-7 : Jasper National Park (2 nights)
• Day 8 : Jasper National Park to Lake Louise via Icefields Parkway
• Day 9 : Lake Louise (1-2 nights)
• Day 10 : Lake Louise to Yoho National Park day trip, return to Lake Louise or Banff
• Day 11-13 : Banff National Park (2- 3 nights)
• Day 14 : Calgary, car drop off and fly

Alternate 14 day Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip itinerary

• Day 1 – 2 : Arrive in Vancouver, explore for the next 2 days
• Day 3: Day tour of Squamish
• Day 4 – 5 : Explore Whistler (2 nights)
• Day 6 : Spend a day in Kamloops (1 night)
• Day 7 : Visit Revelstoke from Kamloops (2.50 hours drive). Explore Revelstoke, especially ski jumping in the winter at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Stay overnight
• Day 8 : Drive to Glacier National Park in British Columbia (day trip). Explore. Stay overnight in Golden (45 minutes from the national park)
• Day 9: Drive from Golden BC to Yoho National Park BC. In the evening, head to Lake Louise, and stay overnight
• Day 10 : Explore Lake Louise
• Day 11-13: Head to Banff National Park. Spend 3 days. 
• Day 14: Calgary, car drop off and fly

Vancouver to Banff Drive 7 day itinerary

• Day 1 : Arrive in Vancouver, explore or head to Whistler 
• Day 2 : Whistler 
• Day 3 : Kamloops
• Day 4 : Lake Louise (you can also do a half-day in Yoho National Park, and another half in Lake Louise as well)
• Day 5-6 : Banff National Park
• Day 7 : Calgary, car drop off and fly

A shortened version of this road trip itinerary can be done by skipping Jasper National Park, and Squamish, and focusing on the goodies at the Canadian Rockies cradle – Banff and Lake Louise. 

Note that Yoho, Banff, and Jasper parks are all National Parks of Canada, and you must pay entry fees to enter and stay overnight. Here is the fees chart,

• Adult – Person 18 to 64 years of age – $10 CAD per day or 24 hours*
• Family/Car – $20 CAD – per day or 24 hours
• Senior – $8.30
• Youth (up to 17 years) – Free
• Commercial group (per person) – $8.30

The daily or 24-hour pass means that you pay $10 CAD per adult for one day inside the National Park. If you are a frequent visitor to National Parks in Canada, get The Discovery Pass .

This pass is valid for one full year from the date of purchase and it allows you to access over 80 historical, and nature parks in Canada for a set price of $69+ CAD (for adults).

Read : Planning a trip to Banff & Canadian Rockies Travel Tips

Tips for preparing for the Road Trip

• Summer – Summer is a great time to embark on this road trip. This is the time when you can see the pristine turquoise blue waters of the lakes, go hiking, camping, etc. This is also the peak season in the national parks, so expect accommodation to be expensive, and towns and trails to be crowded. We recommend starting early to beat the traffic rush when you start from Vancouver or Calgary. If camping, remember to book campsites ahead of time.
• Spring and fall – Spring and fall are our favorite times to explore the national parks. It is off-season in Canada, so finding accommodation is a breeze. Spring can be a little tricky for visiting Parks, as many of the sightseeing spots may not be open. The sweet spot is the late spring, and early fall weeks, when the majority of the attractions will be open. Trans Canada highway and sister driving routes are always open, all year round. 
• Winter – Winter is a wonderful time to visit the Rockies, but driving in winter can be tricky. Winter is not a peak season, some of the destinations (that are popular winter vacation spots in Canada ) can be filled up really quickly by international visitors. 
• Wondering when is the best time to visit Banff National Park? Read this guide

Driving in Canada in winter can be challenging due to slippery road surfaces, unpaved lanes, and blowing snow. Sometimes road accidents and avalanches may also add extra time to your itinerary. 

If you are planning to do this Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary in winter, then follow these tips, 

• Winter tires – Ensure your vehicle or rental car has tires on (not all-seasonal ones)
• Fluid – Don’t forget car fluid (buy something up to – 15 degrees Celsius or lower)!
• Slow down – While driving in the winter, drive slowly and maintain a good distance. 
• Packing for a road trip  – Keep warm clothing in your car to stay warm, including some snacks. Tips on what to pack for Canada in winter
• Check local news before you start – Check the weather and local news to ensure it is safe to embark on this trip, and that the route/road is clear. This will also help you to determine if additional travel time is required

For all road trips, remember

• You must carry a valid driver’s license (Canadian, US, or International)
• You can rent a vehicle in all major international airports, in this case, Vancouver 
• You must be at least 21 years of age to rent a vehicle.
• Canada uses kilometers and meters to measure distance, and wherever wildlife crossings exist, the signs will show up
• Oh, and don’t forget to fuel up with Tim Hortons Coffee and doughnut – that’s a MUST – you are on a road trip, eh!

Day 1: Arrive and explore Vancouver Downtown, Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown

Vancouver is served by the Vancouver International Airport, which is located in Richmond, British Columbia, about 12 km (7.4 miles) away from Downtown. 

If arriving via aircraft from the eastern part of Canada, or the USA (or Seattle), you will arrive at this airport. Car rentals are available from the YVR/Vancouver airport. We book our rental cars via Expedia.

You can also reserve it online, and then pick it up from one of the rental agencies like Alamo, Budget, Avis, and Enterprise to name a few. We like using Avis and Enterprise Rent-A-Car for mileage offerings, and vehicle variety. 

Alternatively, if you are planning to explore Vancouver via day tours, you can skip the car rental in the first few days, and then pick it up when ready to start the road trip to Banff Alberta. 

Exploring Vancouver without a car: 

Vancouver’s rapid transit rail connects YVR airport to downtown Vancouver in under 30 minutes. You can access trains from both the International and Domestic Terminals. Fare starts at $4.25 CAD, plus the $5.00 CAD Canada Line. 

Where to stay in Vancouver? We recommend staying in the downtown area. From downtown, you can walk to various sightseeing attractions, and take a free shuttle to North Vancouver, or guided tours. 

Our pick: GEC Granville Suites are located in the downtown neighborhood. The rooms were decent and clean. You can check out the hotel and book here

If you prefer a luxury hotel, we recommend the Fairmont Vancouver Waterfront Hotel. This hotel is pet-friendly and offers amazing views of the city, waterfront, and mountains. Book your stay here

Note : After 2 days in Vancouver sightseeing, pick up a car rental, and start the drive towards Alberta. You can skip to Day 3 if you do not wish to explore Vancouver in this itinerary. 

After arriving in downtown Vancouver, embark on a walking tour of the city center. Head to the waterfront area to visit Canada Place. 

The sails of Canada Place are iconic to the city of Vancouver, and the downtown area. It is home to the Vancouver Convention Center, the Pan Pacific Vancouver Hotel, Vancouver’s World Trade Center, and FlyOver Canada. 

Canada Place is a nice place to hang out, stop for a coffee, soak in the water views, and relax in the wonderful city. FlyOver Canada is a popular attraction in Canada Place. 

FlyOver Canada uses state-of-the-art technology to give you the feeling of flight. You can ‘fly’ or hang over Niagara Falls, and various other cool places in Canada! 

Many Vancouver sightseeing tours start at Canada Place (for tourists’ pick-ups and drop-offs). 

To make the most of your trip to Vancouver, you can join a Hop-on and Hop-off sightseeing tour to check off all the city attractions from Stanley Park, Granville Island, Chinatown, and more. Book Vancouver hop on and off tour here

Stanley Park is a popular attraction and an urban park in Vancouver. The park is beautiful with a lot of green spaces, views of Vancouver Harbor and the English Bay, and various artifacts (from statues to totem poles). Do check out statues at the Park, like that of Henry Jerome or, the Girl in a Wetsuit (my favorite).

If you have time on your hands, we recommend walking the Vancouver Seawall (10 km or 6.2 miles loop). Walking the seawall will take about 2-3 hours, and biking takes about an hour. 

While driving (or on the sightseeing bus), you will see a green bridge, known as the Lion Gate Bridge . This bridge connects the city of Vancouver to north and west Vancouver.

The best place to check out and photograph the bridge (when not driving) is to head to Prospect Point. Prospect Point is important as it allows you to get an uninterrupted view of the city of Vancouver. The drive to the Point goes through a woody/forested area.

The Prospect Point falls on the northernmost tip of Stanley Park – also a wonderful spot to spend summers. 

Another must add attraction to your 2 day Vancouver itinerary is to visit Granville Island. Granville Island is a peninsula and shopping district, located across False Creek from Downtown Vancouver.

It is nice to spend an afternoon here, looking at the shops or eating Fish and Chips. There is also a large Granville Island public market that sells fresh local produce, seafood, baked goods, and gourmet food. Book a 2 hour walking tour of Granville Tour here

Chinatown is another spot to visit during your trip. We enjoyed our time at the Sun yat Sen Gardens located in Chinatown. 

The gardens provide a very tranquil atmosphere, with greenery and symbols of Chinese heritage. The gardens were inspired and modeled after the private gardens in Suzhou, China.

After exploring the Sun yat Sen gardens, you can stop for an early dinner or meal in Chinatown.

To finish sightseeing on day one, we recommend heading to Gastown for drinks. Gastown neighborhood is filled with pretty Victorian homes and is sprinkled with restaurants, bars, and cafes. 

Do take time to check out the 40-year-old clock, called the Gastown Steam Clock. Steam comes out of the clock till today, and it looks so pretty with the buildings in the backdrop. 

Day 2: Sightseeing: North Vancouver, Robson Street & Vancouver Art Gallery

For day 2 in Vancouver, we planned to visit the beautiful Capilano Suspension Bridge . It is located in North Vancouver, and you can take a free shuttle (or drive if you have access to car rental) from Canada Place.

There are free shuttles available from Canada Place to take you to Capilano Suspension Bridge and they operate every 30 minutes. Take a look at their website here.

Set aside 2-4 hours to explore the Park, cross the Suspension Bridge, and have fun at the Cliff Walk or TreeTops Adventure. You can also stop for lunch at a cafe inside the park. 

The Capilano Suspension bridge was built in the late 1800s by a Scottish civil engineer named George Grant Mackay. You can learn about the bridge’s early history from a guide when you reach the park entrance. The current bridge is 140 metres long and 70 metres above the river.

There is an entry fee at Capilano Suspension Bridge. For adults, the fee starts at $54.95 CAD, to get access to the bridge, totem poles, guide walk, cliff walk, etc. More details about fees can be found here

Also, located in North Vancouver is the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge . Lynn Canyon Park is completely free, and it also has a ton of hiking trails that you can enjoy!

In the late afternoon, head back to the heart of the city to explore Robson Street . Robson Street is a popular place for shoppers. This street is very far-stretched, as it starts at the BC Place Stadium and runs past the Vancouver Library square and goes up to the Lost Lagoon, in Stanley Park.

You can go shopping, or visit the Vancouver Art Gallery . It is easy to get lost in this street and spend the entire evening here at a nice restaurant or pub.

Day 3: Drive to Whistler with a stop in Squamish

Squamish is a town located further north of Vancouver. The views from the Sea to Sky Gondola with waterfalls and mountains make this drive to the town all worth it.

You can explore Squamish on a day trip, and then drive to Whistler, where you can spend the night (to check out the highlights the following day).

• Vancouver to Squamish takes 1 hour. Distance is about 64.1 km (39.8 miles) via BC-99 N
• Squamish to Whistler takes 45 minutes. Distance is about 58.8 km (36.5 miles) via Sea-to-Sky Highway/BC-99 S
• Vancouver to Whistler takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. Distance is about 121 km (74.5 miles) via BC-99 N

Squamish is at the northern tip of the island-dotted Howe Sound and surrounded by Stawamus Chief Mountain views . We recommend adding 2-3 attractions for a one day itinerary in Squamish. 

If you wish to go on a short hike, stop at the Shannon Falls Provincial Park first before arriving in the town. Shannon Falls is home to the third largest waterfalls in British Columbia. 

Highly recommend the Sea to Sky Gondola . It has all the epic views and showcases the stunning Shannon Falls from up there, as it cascades down a series of cliffs. Entry to the sightseeing gondola is $53.95 CAD for adults ( when purchased online ). 

The Britannia Mine Museum is another must visit stop on this route to Whistler.  The museum preserves the history and showcases artifacts related to British Columbia’s mining industry. In order to explore it all, you will need about 1.5 to 2 hours. 

The entry fee at the Britannia Mine Museum is $30 CAD, and includes a 45 minute tour. 

After all the sightseeing, take a stroll in the downtown Squamish area , and stop for lunch, before continuing the trip to Whistler.

The drive from Squamish to Whistler will take you about 45 minutes. You can plan to arrive by evening so that you can settle in, check in to your hotel, and head out for dinner in Whistler downtown.

Where to stay in Whistler?   Hilton Resort & Spa. The Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa is located in the heart of Whistler Village. You can book rooms with mountain or pool views. The resort is just steps away from Whistler & Blackcomb Mountain. Private paid parking is available. 

Another alternative is Tantalus Resort Lodge , which is a 3 star property for your stay. There is a pool, and free parking is offered here. 

Read : 2 day Whistler itinerary

Day 4: Explore Whistler Village

Wake up to a wonderful breakfast and views in Whistler Village . The downtown area of Whistler is nothing short of an alpine village. Here you can shop for goodies, or hang out in a cafe.

After breakfast, head to the Whistler Blackcomb . Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America and also has the greatest uphill lift capacity. 

You can use a jeep tour too, if interested (especially in the winter!). And don’t forget to hop on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for moving between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains at the top. 

During winters, the resort abounds in skiing activities. You can also opt for ski lessons here. Ski season starts in November here, and Blackcomb is also known for spring skiing. In April, Whistler hosts the World Ski & Snowboard Festival in the mountains!

It is important to note that regardless of when you visit, at Whistler Blackcomb you can see snow and ice even in the summer months. We do recommend bringing in a warm jacket , and comfortable boots to enjoy the mountains. And don’t forget your sunscreen and sunglasses!

In the summer months, after visiting the Blackcomb, head to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre . This is a great place to learn about Indigenous cultures – of Squamish & Lil’wat Nations. You can also join a unique tour, ‘What We Treasure tour’, to learn more about the cultures. The entry fee is $20 CAD for adults. 

Finally, in the evening head to the Scandinave Spa (they close at 09:00 pm). Enjoy one of their spa and relaxation packages!

Day 5: Drive to Kamloops British Columbia

Kamloops is another city in the province of British Columbia. When we drive from Alberta, or back, Kamloops or Revelstoke is a good option for a stop. Drive from Whistler to Kamloops takes a little over 4 hours. 

• Whistler to Kamloops takes 4 hours 14 minutes . Distance is 299.4 km (185 miles) via BC-99 N or
• It is longer via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 E and BC-5 N – about 5 hours 37 minutes. Distance via this route is 473.5 km (293 miles)

We recommend starting early from Whistler so that you can stop for lunch, and break the drive. This way you will be in Kamloops in the afternoon, check-in, and then explore a bit in the evening. 

For lunch, you can stop in a small town, named Lillooet . Depending on your interests, you can check out a few things here (or continue the drive to Kamloops): 

• Lillooet Museum and Visitor Centre
• Old Suspension Bridge
• There is a winery, called the Fort Berens Winery, which is a nice stop. Travelers love to lunch here and go wine tasting! Probably a good idea if you are staying here overnight. 

You could also visit Nairn Falls Provincial Park near Pemberton.

In Kamloops, you can check out a few of the attractions, depending on your arrival time, 

• Secwepemc Museum & Heritage Park: The museum showcases the cultural and traditional lives of the Secwepemc People.
• Kamloops Museum & Archives: Another museum to stop by, in downtown Kamloops
• Kamloops is home to Sun Peaks Resort. It is a lovely ski area, where you go skiing in the winter, and biking or hiking in the summer
• Where to eat in Kamloops? Brownstone Restaurant (Canadian) | Mittz Kitchen | Maurya’s Restaurant Bar & Banquet (Indian)

Where to stay in Kamloops?  We booked a stay at the Holiday Inn Express Kamloops . It is a 3 star property with free breakfast, and a pool on-site. Free parking is also provided. 

Kamloops doesn’t have a lot to explore. So we usually start late to the city of Kamloops (spending more time in Whistler or Jasper, whichever direction we are driving) and arrive just in time to check-in, eat dinner and sleep!

An alternate option is to drive one hour north of Kamloops to Clearwater . In doing so, you can visit Wells Grey Provincial Park. 

Clearwater is a little over 3 and a half hours’ drive from Jasper, so it is closer to Jasper than Kamloops (saving an hour the next day). Find hotels in Clearwater British Columbia .

Day 6: Drive to Jasper from Kamloops or Clearwater British Columbia

On day 6 start for Jasper National Park. Jasper National Park is the largest park in the Canadian Rockies. (And we are lucky to be living only 4 hours away from both Jasper and Banff town! Yay! Here is an Edmonton to Jasper Road trip itinerary )

So driving from BC here is the distance and duration,

• Kamloops to Jasper is 4 hours 50 minutes. Distance is 440.7 km (273 miles) via BC-5 N
• Clearwater to Jasper is 3 hours and 20 minutes . Distance is 317.5 km (197 miles) via BC-5 N

As Jasper is a national park, you have to pay park fees at the west entrance gate. 

Upon entering the park gates, soak in those views of the Canadian Rockies, and head to Jasper town for brunch (or coffee and cake). 

From Jasper townsite, head to explore the following attractions,

Start at the Patricia and Pyramid Lakes . Both lakes are located only about a 10 minute drive away. From downtown Jasper, take Hwy 16A (Connaught Road) north, turn left on Pyramid Lake Road, and follow it to the lake. 

You can access both lakes all year round. In the summer, you can go kayaking/boating and enjoy hikes and strolls around the lakeside.

In the winter, you can go snowshoeing on Patricia and Pyramid Lakes. We loved our time at Pyramid Island which is located a short drive/walk (about 1.5 km or 1 mile) from the Pyramid Lake Resort. 

Parking is located on the left side of the road and is limited. So if visiting in the summer plan to visit early. In the winter months, we were able to score parking at noon (with no one to be seen in the area). 

After the lakes, make your way to Athabasca Falls. Accessible all year round, Athabasca Falls is a waterfall located about 40 minutes from Pyramid Lake.

If visiting in the winter, ensure you are wearing cleats or solid winter boots as the boardwalk and steps could be slippery. 

If you fancy an ice walk in the winter, visit the Maligne Canyon. It is located about 20 minutes from Pyramid Lake, and it looks amazing in the winter with the ice formations. You can also go on this walk on your own. Ensure you are wearing cleats as the ground could be very slippery.  

Where to stay in Jasper?  

• Marmot Lodge : Located in Jasper town, Marmot Lodge is a good accommodation option inside the national park, and close to restaurants and attractions. Book a stay at Marmot Lodge
• Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a nice and luxurious option, with a spa, planetarium, and 2 stunning restaurants on-site.  Book a stay here
• Pocahontas Cabins: We enjoy staying in cabins in the winter. And on one snowy December, we stayed at the Pocahontas Cabins (located close to the east gate entrance). Pocahontas is a 2 star accommodation with free parking, a kitchen, a bedroom, and a living room in each cabin. Note that Pocahontas Cabins are located 40 minutes away from Jasper townsite. Book a stay at Pocahontas Cabins

Day 7: Explore more of Jasper National Park, Alberta

On day 7 explore more of Jasper National Park. Regardless of where you stay in Jasper, you must head to the downtown area for a nice breakfast at a local cafe. We personally love the Bear’s Paw Bakery!

Your second day in Jasper is all about short hikes, and nature/old fort walks near downtown. Whistler’s Peak Trail is a popular spot for hikes. Maligne Canyon is also a great spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

Old Fort Point Summit is located close to the downtown area, and it offers amazing views of Jasper town!

If you are not into hikes, visit the Jasper SkyTram (summer), which is a sightseeing gondola. Jasper SkyTram is only open from late March to early October, and it welcomes you to Whistlers Mountain views. When the gondola rides are open, you can also visit the restaurant/bistro up there!

In the summer months, you can also visit the Miette Hot Springs . They are located near the Pocahontas Cabins. (Note that it is closed in the winter.) The pool is located outdoors and it offers amazing views of the surrounding Fiddle River Valley. 

For those visiting in winter, or early spring visit Jasper’s Marmot Ski Basin for skiing (from November to April). Jasper Town to Marmot Ski Basin is about 20 minute drive away. You can also hop on a shuttle bus (from the downtown area near Tim Hortons) to reach the ski area.

Marmot Basin has about 90 runs on four mountain faces with 3,000 vertical feet of drop. There are options for ski lessons, and ski gear rentals onsite.

The area has a lift capacity of close to 12,000 skiers per hour on seven lifts. You will also love the amazing restaurant up there (if not skiing)!

After all the sightseeing, finish the night at the Jasper Brewing Co . in downtown Jasper. We love their beer samplers – they are amazing! Try them next time you are in town!

Read: 3 days in Jasper itinerary

Day 8: Drive to Lake Louise from Jasper via Icefields Parkway

We are halfway through the Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary, and it’s now time to head to Banff from Jasper via the Icefields Parkway . 

The Icefields Parkway stretches for about 233 km (144.7 miles) from Jasper to Lake Lousie (and vice versa). This is one of the most scenic drives that you can take in the Canadian Rockies. 

If you drive non-stop, it will take about 3 hours to arrive in Lake Louise . The entire route is done via Highway AB-93S.

It is important to note that the Icefields Parkway road is open all year round. However, not all attractions will be open in the winter. 

We do recommend stopping at a few sights before arriving at Lake Louise in the evening (overnight stay in Lake Louise). 

Your first stop along the Icefields Parkway is the stunning Sunwapta Falls (45 minutes from Jasper town). The route is accessible all year, we suggest checking seasonal road conditions in the winter, before heading to the access area for the Falls.

We loved exploring the Sunwapta Falls in the winter. It was not crowded, and we loved the white snow dust on the landscape and waters. It was just so beautiful. 

Next, visit the Glacier Skywalk and Columbia Icefields . Columbia Icefields are home to the largest non-polar ice fields in the world. To embark on glacier tours, you have to head there in the summer, particularly from May to October.

If you are pressed for time, you can visit the Glacier Discovery Centre, and admire the views from a distance. 

Columbia Icefield Adventure tour is weather dependent, and includes an Ice Explorer Tour on the Athabasca Glacier, plus admission to the Skywalk, and return transportation from the Glacier Discovery Centre.

Lastly, before settling into Lake Louise, stop by Peyto Lake. It is a stunning glacial-fed lake located an hour from the Columbia Icefields. If you are up for a hike, lace up for an easy 6.11 km or 3.8 mile round trip hike. This spot welcomes you to one of the best views in the Canadian Rockies. 

From Peyto Lake, drive for another 30 minutes to arrive at Lake Louise. 

Where to stay in Lake Louise? Stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise . Or at any of the mid-budget accommodations like Lake Louise Inn .

You can find more hotels here for Lake Louise . 

Day 9: Explore Lake Louise

On day 9, spend a full day in and around Lake Louise. Go on hikes, or canoeing in the summer. You can rent canoes at the lakeside. 

Hiking the Agnes Tea House trail will welcome you to amazing views, and a historic tea house. If not into hiking, you can enjoy a romantic stroll by the lake and the Fairmont Hotel property!

If visiting in the winter, you can go skiing at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, and ice skating at the frozen lake. In the late winter months, there are ice festivals that you can enjoy too. 

There is a small town centre area inside of the hamlet of Lake Louise, this is where you can grab food, and buy essentials. You can also walk/hike from the lake to the centre.

We had the yummiest of Chicken curries and candies here, at the Laggan’s Mountain Bakery & Delicatessen (101 Village Road, Lake Louise).

Day 10: Take a day trip to Yoho National Park from Lake Louise

From Lake Louise explore the Yoho National Park, on a day trip. This national park is one of the parks in the Canadian Rockies (others being Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Waterton National Park).

Lake Louise to Yoho National Park is only 15 minutes away (one way). Park entry fees are the same ($20 CAD per vehicle entry for 24 hours). 

Yoho National Park is located in British Columbia and is bordered by Kootenay National Park (south side), and Banff National Park (east side). The visitor office for the park is located in the town of Field, by the Trans Canada Highway. 

En route from Lake Lousie, your first stop is at the Natural Bridge . This attraction is a wonderful phenomenon of natural rock formation, that looks like a bridge, wherein the Kicking Horse River flows from the Field Valley. 

There is a free car parking area right outside the lookout/viewing platform. You can access the scenic lookout without any strenuous hikes. 

Up next on the road trip are the Spiral Tunnels. These tunnels were created when British Columbia joined the Canadian Confederation and a railway network was constructed. Every day, 25 to 30 trains pass through the Spiral Tunnels making it super picturesque. 

If you are patient, we recommend getting down at the lower Spiral Tunnels and waiting for the trains to pass by (if not just read through the informative displays in the area).

One of the must visit attractions at the Yoho National Park (after the Emerald Lake) is Takakkaw Falls. You can easily access Takakkaw Falls via Trans-Canada Highway and on the Yoho Valley Road. 

The scenic drive to the Falls takes about 30 minutes. The roads leading to the falls are steep and narrow, so exercise caution as you drive. Maneuvering larger vehicles might be challenging in these lanes.

A short trail takes to the full view of Takakkaw Falls from the parking lot. Spend some time here before making your way to the townsite of Field for lunch.

Our favorite place for lunch: Truffle Pigs Bistro. 

After lunch, proceed to the Upper Spiral Tunnel Viewpoint in Cathedral Mountain . From here you can also view the meeting point of the Kicking Horse River and the Yoho River. 

Last but not the least, visit the beautiful Emerald Lake . This lake is enclosed by mountains—President Range, Mount Burgess, and Wapta, and oozes a lovely ‘emerald color’ (in the summertime). 

The lake is accessible all year round. In the winter, it is prone to heavy snowfall, making it a paradise for cross country skiing. Rain is frequent in the summer. June and July are the perfect months to capture images of wild flora and fauna.

During the summer months, you can rent a canoe, take walks or visit the Emerald Lake Lodge. In addition, this is the perfect time to capture the color of the lake (especially in the month of July).

Near the lake is a hiking trail that is accessible for differently abled and strollers. 

After a fun-filled day of sightseeing at Yoho National Park, drive back to Lake Louise, and stay there overnight. 

Day 11: Drive to Banff from Lake Louise 

On day 11, start for Banff. Lake Louise is located inside Banff National Park and is only a 50-minute drive away. When you start early, you can enjoy breakfast in the heart of Banff Avenue.

Our favorites : White Bark Cafe, Evelyn’s Cafe, and Touloulou’s. Find more of the best places to eat in Banff National Park

There are tons of things to do in and around Banff from visiting more lakes (Two Jack Lake, Minnewanka Lake, Moraine Lake, and Vermillion Lake), hiking and biking trails, campgrounds in the summer, gardens, and stunning mountain views.

As this is your first day in Banff, we recommend checking off attractions near the townsite. Explore the beautiful shops, buy souvenirs, eat Beaver Tails, and if you are not bored of gondolas already – then hit the Sulphur Mountain Sightseeing Gondola.  

Sulphur Mountain Sightseeing Gondola is located a 5-minute drive away from Banff town. They are open all year round (and trust us, it is even better in the winter in Banff , with Christmas On Top celebrations and stargazing events).

Do remember to wear warm clothing, as it gets super windy up there!

The entry fee at the gondola starts at $64 CAD for adults. They have separate operating hours for different seasons. 

You can stay at the gondola sightseeing platform as long as you want, and take in views of the Bow Valley. There is a nice Sky Bistro at the viewing platform, as well as a Cosmic Ray Station. 

Many hikers head to the top of Sulphur Mountain through a woody forest, and it takes about 1.50 to 2 hours (one way) to reach the summit. If interested, you can hike one way, and then use the gondola to come down.

After a gondola ride, proceed to the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel . This is a vintage 5-star property located in Banff – it is housed in a castle-like building. From the suites and hotel grounds, you can soak in views of the mountains and Banff Valley.

Another 5-minute drive will bring you to Bow Falls . Bow Falls is a major waterfall on the Bow River. You can easily park your car by the falls, and go on a quick stroll to explore the area.

When we visited it on a summer afternoon, we were blessed with rainbow views! 

If interested, you can add a visit to the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies from here, it is a 4 minute drive from the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.

Next on the list is the historic site of Cave and Basin. Cave and Basin National Historic Site is home to natural thermal mineral springs around which Banff was founded and established, as Canada’s first national park. 

In order to get to Cave and Basin, you can walk/hike a distance of 1.5 kilometres (with no elevation gain) from the intersection at the south end of the Bow River bridge. It will take you about 20 to 25 minutes.

Inside you will find sulphur pools (and the smell could be very strong for some). There are also permanent exhibits highlighting the history of the Banff site, and the flora and fauna. The entrance fee is $6 CAD.

From the Cave and Basin Historic Site, you can embark on 2 trails – Marsh Loop and Sundance Canyon Trail (both great for hiking and biking).

In the evening, visit Cascade of Time Gardens. Go on a nice evening stroll here, admiring the Edwardian building (which is an administrative office), Cascade mountain views, and various gazebos and manicured gardens.

It is completely free to enter the complex. From the Cave and Basin Site, Cascade Gardens are a 4 minute drive away via Cave Ave. 

If coming from downtown Banff follow Banff Avenue to the south end and cross over the bridge on the Bow River. You will see the stone Parks Building ahead of you.

Parking is available near the gardens, and located close by is a Chinese Restaurant named Silver Dinner, where you can go for dinner. ( Banff International Hostel is a 6-minute drive from here)

Read: Where to stay in Banff National Park

We have stayed in many properties in Banff over the past 10 years. We will pick three favorites here (mid-budget range),

• Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa: Located in downtown Banff/Banff Avenue, this hotel is a nice option to stay close to town, with quick access (walkable distance) to shops and restaurants. They offer free parking, and there is a spa on site. Book your stay here
• Juniper Hotel & Bistro: Juniper Hotel & Bistro is well known for stunning restaurant with views of Mount Norquay and the Trans Canada Highway. They have a variety of room options (from cabins, and penthouses to standard rooms). It is a fuss-free 3 star property with nice views. Book your stay here
• Elk + Avenue: Another Banff downtown property, Elk + Avenue offers mountain views from many of its suites. There is a jacuzzi and a sauna on-site, along with a nice (rustic and cabin style) restaurant. The hotel is pet-friendly ($25 CAD per night). Book your stay here

Day 12: Exploring Banff National Park 

The second day in Banff is all about road tripping and exploring various lakes inside the National Park.

We will start with Vermillion Lakes (close to Banff downtown), then proceed to Two Jack Lake, Lake Minnewanka, and finally, arrive at the stunning Moraine Lake (by late afternoon or early evening to beat the crowds).

Vermillion Lakes is located about 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) from Banff downtown. To get to the lakeside, from Banff or the Trans-Canada highway, access Mt Norquay Road.

From Mt Norquay road, leaving the town of Banff, turn left onto Vermilion Lakes Road, which will take you alongside all three lakes.

The three lakes are formed in the Bow River valley at the foot of Mount Norquay. They are located between the Trans-Canada Highway and the Canadian Pacific Railway tracks.

You can access the lake all year round. We particularly enjoyed the views of the Vermillion Lake with Mt Norquay, in the fall season (it is possible to sight the Northern Lights at the Vermillion Lakes in the late fall, and winter months in Banff).

You can hike, walk or go kayaking at the lake in the summer months.

From Vermillion Lake, start for Two Jack Lake (this is where Salil and I got married, see our pictures from the Banff wedding here ). 

It will take about 14 minutes to get to Two Jack Lake (12.3 km/7 miles) via Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 E and Lake Minnewanka Scenic Dr. There is a campsite near the lake.

We enjoy walking the 2-mile loop trail near the lake. It is a great spot for photos, and also to just relax and enjoy scenic views of Two Jack Lake, and Mount Rundle. You can access the lake in the winter as well – they are perfect for ice skating when the lakes are frozen!

Drive further to Lake Minnewanka next. Minnewanka is a large glacial lake – popular for picnicking, mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, diving, and snowshoeing in the winters. 

The name ‘Minnewanka’ was given by the indigenous Stoney Nakoda First Nations people who called it Minn-waki (or the Lake of the Spirits). In the summer, you can join a scenic boat cruise on Lake Minnewanka. 

Lake cruises last approximately 1 hour and are led by a guide who shares stories of Spirit Island and the Rockies. The cruise begins at the western end of Lake Minnewanka, you can purchase tickets there or online . Cruises operate from May to mid-October. 

You can break for lunch here at Minnewanka lakeside, before starting for Moraine Lake. If you are packing some food, you can rest by the lake (Minnewanka).

Or head back to Banff Avenue for lunch. 

Pro tip : We usually keep non-perishable food items (coconut water, health bars in our car), and just continue on the road trip. It also helps if you opt for a good breakfast 🙂 There are bathrooms in the parking lot of Lake Minnewanka, in case you need one!

After lunch, you can start your drive to Moraine Lake. If starting from Lake Minnewanka, it will take you about an hour to reach Lake Moraine. Depending on the peak season, you could also expect delays, and issues in finding parking.

We recommend planning the road trip in a way that you arrive there closer to 5:00 pm. The days are longer in the Canadian Rocky Mountains in the summer months, so you can expect light until 6:30 or 07:00 pm. 

This picture here was taken in the evening, on Canada Day – July 1st (on Canada’s 150th year!)

Moraine Lake is one of the most picturesque sights in Banff National Park. It is a glacially fed lake situated in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, at an elevation of approximately 1,884 metres. 

There are many easy hikes that you can embark on, in and around Moraine Lake. The Larch Valley hike is one of the nicest places to go on a quick hike (45 minutes to 1 hour). This hike starts at the base of Moraine Lake. To see fall colors, visit for 2 or 3 weeks in mid/late September. 

Read : Things to do in Banff in the fall

Other hikes include –

• Consolation Lakes (6 km/3.7 miles round trip, takes about 1-2 hours)
• Sentinel Pass (this trail continues from the Larch Valley hike with views of the Valley of the Ten peaks. It is a 12 km/7.4 miles hike round trip)

Return to Banff town, after this ‘day of lakes’ road trip. 

Read: Our 5 days in Banff Itinerary

Day 13: More of Banff and Canmore or Johnston Canyon

We have a couple of options for your third day in Banff. You can either keep it easy, and relaxing – go shopping at Banff Avenue, and visit the nearby town of Canmore. Banff to Canmore is about 20 minutes drive away.

In Canmore, you can explore their downtown area. It is less commercialized than Banff Avenue but is still sprinkled with art galleries, cute cafes, and international restaurants. 

You will love the views of Three Sisters in Canmore. For those who want to take it slow, we recommend walking the downtown area, and then strolling the Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk or Old Engine Bridge, while enjoying lovely mountain views.

There are indoor rock climbing areas (Elevation Place), Yoga studios, and skiing at the Canmore Nordic Centre (site of the 1988 Olympic Winter Games). 

There are a ton of hiking options in the Kananaskis Country as well. Grassi Lakes is a popular option, followed by Ha Ling Peak. These hikes can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. 

You can also drive to Spray Lakes Provincial Park near Canmore, and soak in the views of the mountain (Ha Ling) and Spray Lakes (without a hike). 

Our recent trip to Canmore was in the winter. We drove to the Spray Lakes, enjoyed the provincial park, and returned in the evening. We went dining in Canmore town and then drove back to Banff. Find more things to do in Canmore

An alternate option is to skip Canmore and drive to Johnston Canyon instead. Johnston Canyon is located about a 45-minute drive (one way) away from Banff town.

You can take AB-93N, then exit on TransCanada Highway/AB-1. Turn right onto Bow valley parkway and travel for 6.2 km (3.2 miles) to reach Johnston Canyon.

You can choose from 1 to 4 hour hiking trails (round trip).

• Starting from Johnston Canyon to Lower Falls – 1-hour hike round trip
• Johnston Canyon to Upper Falls – 2 hours hike round trip
• Ink Pots – 4 hours round trip 

Johnston Canyon is amazing in the winter as well. You can participate in ice walks to see the stunning ice creations, trails, and more, like a winter wonderland of sorts. There is easy access to both the upper and lower falls. 

If you are new to ice walks, we recommend joining a group tour!

Day 14: Drive to Calgary, drop off car rental and fly

Today is the last day in Banff. Depending on your departure time from Calgary, you can set aside this day’s itinerary to explore Canmore (if you missed it on day 13) or visit some of the downtown Calgary attractions. 

Banff to Calgary is an hour’s drive away. In downtown Calgary, you can check off the Stephen Avenue Walk, which is a charming pedestrian walkway lined with cafes, shopping, and entertainment venues. Spend some time exploring art galleries or walk the glass floor of the Calgary Tower. 

Fort Calgary is located close to the downtown area. Fort Calgary is a historic landmark – a fort that was built in 1875 by the Northwest Mounted Police.

The fort is a good spot to learn about the history of the city of Calgary and the province. You can embark on a self-guided tour of the complex (45 minutes to an hour). 

Calgary downtown to the airport is about 20 minutes drive away. You can drop off the car here, before flying off.

Read: How to get from Calgary airport to Banff National Park

Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip Itinerary: Drive with Glacier National Park, Revelstoke, and Golden BC 

• Day 6 : Spend a day in Clearwater, and stay in Kamloops (1 night)
• Day 8: Drive to Glacier National Park in British Columbia (day trip). Explore. Stay overnight in Golden (45 minutes from the national park)
• Day 11-13: Head to Banff National Park. Spend 3 days – visit Banff Gondola, Cave and Basin, Vermilion Lakes, Two Jack Lake

Here is an alternate itinerary option for a 14 days road trip from Vancouver to Banff to Calgary. This sightseeing itinerary skips Jasper National Park and instead covers Revelstoke, Glacier National Park, and Golden in British Columbia. 

By following this route, you can explore more of British Columbia’s natural gems and mountain towns. You can also expect a variety of outdoorsy activities, and more ski resorts to choose from.

From day 1 to 6, stays the same (Vancouver > Whistler > Kamloops). 

On day 7, start for Revelstoke. Revelstoke from Kamloops is 2.50 hours drive away. It is well-known for a ski resort on Mount Mackenzie called the Revelstoke Ski Resort.

Pro tip: You can also break your trip at Salmon Arm, BC, also known for skiing in the winter, and for its lush greenery in the summer months. It is one hour and 15 minutes drive each from Kamloops and Revelstoke. 

Mount Revelstoke National Park in British Columbia is an extraordinary destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Located in the Selkirk Mountains, this park offers a variety of trails, stunning alpine views, and plenty of opportunities to explore nature. 

In the summer months, you can enjoy music festivals in Revelstoke.

If you are looking for a more active outdoor experience, there is no shortage of amazing hiking trails in the park. With about 59 marked trails ranging from easy strolls to strenuous hikes, it’s easy to find something that suits your skill level and time frame.

The trails in Mount Revelstoke National Park are accessed via the Meadows in the Sky Parkway.  You can also go paddling, and mountain biking here as well. 

For those who love wildlife viewing, Mount Revelstoke National Park provides excellent opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitat. 

Mountain goats and bighorn sheep are commonly seen in the park along with grizzly bears, black bears, and other smaller mammals. Bird watchers will also be delighted to spot a variety of species throughout the park.

Revelstoke is home to 2 breweries, and there are distillery tours that you can participate in. 

You can easily find a ton of options to stay in Revelstoke for the night.

On day 8, drive to Glacier National Park in British Columbia on a day trip. (Revelstoke to Glacier National Park is 30 minutes drive away).

Glacier National Park is home to Mount Sir Donald, a 3,284-metre mountain summit, known for mountain climbing and hiking trails. Other notable attractions include the Illecillewaet Glacier, which is located in the Selkirk Mountains. 

We loved driving through the Rogers Pass, admiring all the mountains (Selkirk). There is a historic landmark here – Rogers Pass National Historic Site, where you can visit the museum and learn about the history of the park. 

If you are looking for an easy hike, lace up for Bear Creek Falls. It is a 1.1 kilometer (or .68 miles) out and back trail located near Columbia-Shuswap A. This trail is only accessible if you are heading east on the Trans Canada Highway from the summit of Rogers Pass.

At the end of the trail, you are welcomed to a nice waterfall. This stop is great to stretch your legs and enjoy a break (the best time to visit is June to September). 

Stay overnight in Golden (located about 45 minutes from the national park). Golden is a wonderful destination for outdoor enthusiasts. As you drive into this gorgeous historic town you’ll be impressed by the views and tons of outdoorsy activities that it has to offer.

One of the most exciting warm-weather activities for adventure-seekers is whitewater rafting. The Kicking Horse River is one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in British Columbia and Western Canada. It has something for everybody, from beginners to advanced levels. 

From skydiving and gliding, hiking and mountain biking, to history and sightseeing, Golden will not disappoint you.

In the winter, hit the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort on your Vancouver road trip itinerary. Kicking Horse Resort Village is located 6.4 km (4 miles) away from Golden, and is a premier ski destination for outdoor lovers and adventurers alike. 

With over 3400 acres of skiable terrain, it boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding in North America. Kicking Horse also offers an award-winning mountain village complete with shops, lodges, and restaurants. Plus the resort is home to Canada’s Highest Elevated Dining! 

The resort’s terrain offers a wide variety of terrain for all levels, from groomed beginner runs to challenging off-piste options, and the heli-skiing terrain is breathtaking.

You can continue driving from Golden to Yoho National Park and then arrive in Lake Louise to finish the rest of the items on the road trip itinerary (Day 9 through 14 ).

Vancouver to Banff Drive Itinerary 7 days 

• Day 5-6 : Banff National Park sightseeing for 2 days. Ride the Banff gondola to soak in the views of the mountain ranges, and enjoy the lakes nearby

As mentioned above, a shortened version of this Canadian road trip can be done in 7 days, where you can explore Banff National Park attractions along with Lake Lousie, and fly out from Calgary.

This itinerary begins in Vancouver . You can spend the day in Vancouver, and then in the evening drive to Whistler. The next morning, explore Whistler. 

On day 3, start for Kamloops (4.25 hour drive), stop for lunch, and then continue driving to Lake Lousie. Stay overnight here.

Day 4, check off the iconic turquoise lake in the first half of the day. In the second half, go on the popular Agnes Tea House hike. 

If not into hiking, you can squeeze in a drive to Yoho National Park and hit the following stops – Natural Bridge, Lower Spiral Tunnels, Takakkaw Falls, and Emerald Lake Lodge. 

You will be touching Yoho National Park borders in 15 minutes from Lake Lousie. After exploring Yoho, return and stay overnight in Lake Louise.

On day 5, head to the heart of Banff National Park , and pick 2-5 attractions to explore for the next 2 days. 

Finally, on day 7, drive to Calgary and drop off the car rental. Depending on how much you have on your hands, you can spend a few hours in downtown Calgary before returning home!

Find where to stay in Calgary

We hope you found this itinerary for Vancouver to Banff road trips useful in planning yours! 

Have more questions? Let us know in the comments below.

Need an extensive guide? Consider getting our Canadian Rockies Road trip ebook

Additional Tips: Vancouver to Banff Road Trip and driving options

10 hours 30 minutes.  It takes about 10 hours and 30 minutes to drive from Vancouver to Banff, via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 E. Distance is 846.9 km (526 miles).

The drive from Vancouver to Banff is extremely scenic!  With so many small towns, cities, and Canadian National Parks, you are also exploring 2 provinces in the western part of the country! So we highly recommend it.  It is worth noting that you can easily find cheaper flights into Vancouver (as compared to Calgary or Edmonton from the USA). From Vancouver, you can drive to Alberta. If you have additional time on your hands, visit the wine region of Okanagan Valley in BC. (I love Kelowna wine tastings!)  

Yes. The Rocky Mountaineer runs a train service from Vancouver and Banff National Park. Tickets start at $1600 CAD+ and are a 2 day tour. You can also book the service from Banff to Vancouver.

Yes. Here is a 7 day Canadian Rockies Tour, starting from Seattle Airport

Pin: 2 Week Road Trip from Vancouver to Banff Drive

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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12 Comments

Thank you for this Wonderful information! Planning something with limited driving preferably a bus route, also one night with the rail. Saved your post for a more detailed look.

Thank you! Glad you found it useful!

Very useful information! If someone plans to return to Vancouver and have about 7-8 days, what travel itinerary would you recommend (so something like Vancouver->Jasper->Banff->Vancouver)? Thanks in advance!

Thank you Vips! In one week, you can do 2 days in Banff and 2 days in Jasper with one day along the Icefields Parkway attractions. Leave the first and last day for travels and quick stops in small towns or provincial parks, if you like.

Thank you! This was really useful!

Glad you liked the post!

thank you for your very informative blog, I’ll bear a lot of it in mind. We’re doing a very similar trip this summer, so I was wondering is it feasible to leave Jasper visit Lake Louise without staying overnight and then heading to Banff after on the same day?

Thank you, Mike! Yes, you can certainly travel to Lake Louise from Jasper town, spend the day and then stay overnight in Banff.

We are heading back to Banff this summer! Have a wonderful trip! 🙂

Thank you so much for your detailed blog and itinerary, it really helped me in planning out our family road trip from Vancouver to Banff this summer. I had booked the hotels along the way. However, I got a bad ankle sprain from volleyball which is not recovering as fast as I have wanted to. I definitely can’t hike especially on uneven surfaces. I was wondering if many of the lakes or sightseeing spots are pretty accessible with car and require fairly limited walking? I am debating to cancel my trip over all but I know the family may be disappointed. Perhaps there are places where I can go if it’s easily accessible by car and for places which requires some hiking I will wait around for them. I don’t know how strenuous the hiking is along the way. For now I am planning for two nights Whistler, one night Kamloops, one night Golden, three nights Banff area. Any tips or suggestions are truly appreciated and welcome! Thank you!

So sorry to hear that! Hope you feel better soon xoxo

There are a few lakes and sightseeing areas where you don’t have to hike (some walking is required to the viewing area),

In Banff, you can visit Two Jack Lake, Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise without any strenuous hike. It is a short walk from the parking lot. There are picnic areas at the Two Jack Lake, and Lake Minnewanka.

You can also stop by the Vermillion Lakes from Banff Ave

For Whistler, you can sightsee in the village (its very pretty), ride the gondola but skip the hike

In Golden, you can visit the SkyBridge – it has fair bit of walking though on the suspension bridges (they opened the mountain coaster this year which is amazing)

I hope you are able to visit!

Hello, thank you for all the information. We are planning to do the 8 day itinerary, but have a couple of driving questions. Our trip is scheduled to start October 5 and we are a bit concerned how to fin out if the roads are going to be a concern? Also, my spouse has a terrible fear of heights. Is the Sea to Sky road scary? Are there other parts of the journey that might be of concern? Regular mountain roads are fine, but steep drop-offs or cliffs and hair pin turns are a bit of another matter. We drive in Colorado without issues, but we also avoid some of the crazy mountain passes there. Any thoughts would be appreciated!

So excited for your upcoming trip! The Sea to Sky highway has a few steep parts, certain portions are on an incline with about 10 hairpins. You will have to exercise caution when driving in the mountains.

I usually have my husband do the driving (while I take photos) – he does a better job behind the wheel 🙂

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Vancouver to Banff Road Trip – 8 Unmissable Stops

Are you ready to enjoy the full experience of the Canadian Rockies? This Vancouver to Banff itinerary will provide you with the best views of the Rocky Mountains, with stops along the way at Banff National Park, Lake Louise, and many other beautiful national parks.  

The road trip from Vancouver to Banff needs a minimum of 7 days to explore this beautiful part of the country entirely. It can easily be extended to 14 days to see British Columbia and Alberta truly.

An ideal road trip to cover all three national parks requires between 10-14 days, depending on your end destination or if you are returning round trip to Vancouver. If you are renting an RV or car, you will likely want 14 days to account for travel time to and from your destinations.

Keep reading to learn more about the best stops on our Vancouver to Banff Scenic Route trip itinerary. We have covered the best times to view the landscape and what attractions and activities you want to visit.

Our guide will be helpful in planning your Canadian road trip if you are driving by car or RV. 

Drive From Vancouver To Banff: How Long Do I Need To Drive?

How Far Is Vancouver From Banff?

The distance from Vancouver to Banff is 850 km (approx. 530 miles), and takes 10 hours to drive if you are going to drive straight from one location to the next. The majority of the trip is driven on the Trans Canada Highway 1.

There are multiple routes you can take depending on how much time you have to explore!

The route We will be explaining in detail is a 14-day road trip stopping in Squamish, Whistler, Kamloops, Revelstoke, Jasper National Park, Yoho National Park, Lake Louise, and Banff National Park.

An alternate route option is that you can shorten the road trip down to seven days and focus on just visiting Whistler in British Columbia and spending the rest of your time in Alberta exploring the Canadian Rockies: Lake Louise, Yoho National Park, and Banff National Park.

Best Time Of Year To Drive From Vancouver To Banff

There is no wrong time of the year to embark on this road trip, as every season offers something different in the Canadian Rockies. This scenic drive is also home to many different types of wildlife, so you need to be aware of wildlife crossing signs. 

Summer is the best weather on this route and is the best time of year to take this road trip and enjoy the views of the Rocky Mountain peaks, pristine blue lakes for paddling, and unique hiking trails.

If you choose summer, you need to be prepared that trails will be busy and accommodations fill early, so you will need to pre-plan and make reservations for campsites or hotels. A tip for beating the traffic is to start your drive early in the morning and plan for on-the-go breakfast options.

Spring and Fall are still beautiful times of the year to explore these scenic National Parks. However, the weather can be cooler, and some attractions only run seasonally and may not be open.

The bonus to traveling in the Spring and Fall is if you take the road trip in either June or September, all attractions will be open, but they won’t be as busy with tourists.

Winter can be a beautiful time to explore the Canadian Rockies if you enjoy winter activities like skiing/snowboarding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing.

Driving between Vancouver and Banff on the Trans Canada Highway can be very difficult and dangerous in the winter due to rapidly changing conditions and slippery roads.

If you choose to drive from Vancouver to Banff in winter, you will need to have a vehicle with snow tires and be prepared to slow down and take longer to complete the trip.

Best Stops on a Vancouver to Banff Trip

This is one of the most scenic drives in North America, and there are so many family-friendly activities to enjoy, including hiking, swimming, fishing, paddling, exploring national parks, visiting hot springs, and so much more as you explore the Canadian Rockies.

Before leaving Vancouver, make sure you check out some of our favorite spots for families in Vancouver , including:

• The Vancouver Science Centre
• Stanley Park
• Vancouver Sea Wall
• Downtown Vancouver
• Canada Place
• Granville Island.

There are so many fun things to do in Vancouver, so be sure to check out How to Spend 48 Hours in Vancouver with Kids if you want to explore more of Vancouver before heading to Banff.

Depending on the length of the journey, you can pick and choose attractions that best suit your family’s interests. For this guide, we will focus on summer activities as this is the most popular season to take this drive.

• If you are starting your Canadian Rockies road trip from Alberta, be sure to follow along with our Calgary to Vancouver itinerary instead; we give 2 route options for exploring east to west.

Attractions To Explore Between Vancouver to Banff

The shortest route from Vancouver takes you over the Sea to Sky (Highway 99), which takes you along the water of the Howe Sound, which is a fjord to the snowy mountain tops of Whistler.

However, before arriving in Whistler, you will want to stop in Squamish, one of the best Canadian cities for outdoor adventures and the halfway point between Vancouver and Whistler. 

Squamish is a great location for a half-day adventure, and the Sea to Sky Gondola is a must-do activity with kids. The gondola is about a 10-minute ride, and the views become more and more impressive as you get higher.

Once at the top, you will enjoy a short walk to a suspension bridge that leads to another amazing viewpoint of the mountains and gorgeous waters below, including Shannon Falls, the third-largest waterfall in British Columbia.

If you plan to enjoy a hike or stay for lunch, you will need at least 3 hours for this stop.

The alpine village of Whistler is located just 45 minutes from Squamish. We would start exploring the Downtown area and checking out the unique shops, and cafes. You may choose to explore the Peak to Peak Gondola at Whistler, which is similar to the Sky to Sky in Squamish. 

If you are looking for an active adventure with the kids before continuing the road trip, we recommend the ZipTrek Whistler. They offer a Tree Trek Canopy walk for younger children and a variety of treetop zip lines for older children, including the Sasquatch, which is the longest zipline in Canada and the U.S.A (for children aged 10 and older).

If you are looking for a more relaxing stop, you will want to check out Lakeside Park for a beach day and enjoy some swimming, kayaking, jumping off a dock, playground play, or simply just a picnic from the nearby concession stand.

Another unique option is checking out the suspension bridge and graffiti box cars along the Sea to Sky trail, which is about a 2 km round trip and easy for families.

Depending on the age of your children, Kamloops may be a great place to stop for the night as it is 4 hours from Vancouver and about 5.5 hours from Banff. Kamloops is a great stop for a quick visit  with kids as they have multiple great playgrounds and parks that offer cheap entertainment including:

Riverside Park -> Riverside park is home to two amazing playgrounds, a walking trail with a lookout to the Thompson River, a concession stand and picnic tables, as well as a splash pad. Don’t forget to stop at Scoopz Ice Cream shop across the street, which has many ice cream treats.

Westsyde Centennial Park and Petting Zoo -> Home to the Little Farmers Petting Zoo that is open year-round and fun for the whole family. Bring some coins to purchase food for the ducks, chickens, and goats. The park also has a basketball court, bike pump track, splash pad, and playground. 

BC Wildlife Park -> Another family-friendly stop is at BC Wildlife Park, which rescues animals from the wild. The park has over 60 species of animals and 200 animals including grizzly bears, cougars, wolves, and birds of prey. The whole park can be explored in about 2-3 hours, so it is a perfect pit stop.

Big Little Science Centre -> This is a small educational center dedicated to science that offers hands-on exploration activities and offers a variety of short science shows. This is a very affordable excursion as the entrance for a family costs under $20.

If you want to push your drive a little further, then you can continue onto Revelstoke, which is about 6.5 hours from Vancouver but puts you closer to Jasper the next day as your drive would be about 5 hours to Jasper National Park.

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The mountain scenery in Revelstoke offers a glimpse of the spectacular views you will continue to see as you head toward Banff. Revelstoke is home to jagged mountain peaks, cascading waterfalls, beautiful lakes, and dense cedar forests. Revelstoke is home to some great adventure activities for families to explore and enjoy.

If you brought bikes along with you on this road trip, you would definitely want to stop at Mount Macpherson Park, which offers excellent mountain biking trails that even kids can enjoy. There are lots of biking trails. However, the best ones for the kids are Miller Time and Dusty Beaver, which can be accessed from parking lot 5.

If you left the bike at home but want to enjoy the wilderness, then there are a variety of kid-friendly hikes in Revelstoke including: Meadows in the Sky Parkway, Mount Revelstoke, Arrow Lake, and the Columbia River.

Mount Revelstoke Mountain Coaster features two different mountain coaster tracks that are sure to thrill kids of all ages as it twists and turns up to 40km an hour down the mountain. However, families can control their own speed, making it great for even the littlest rider.

The 1.4km track is powered by the downhill gravity of the mountain as it glides along the track. Kids under age 8 will require a parent to ride with them.

Want to enjoy the water? We highly recommend becoming a River Pirate and experiencing a pirate adventure on the Columbia River with Wild Blue Yonder Rafting Adventures where you will experience pirate stories, and sing-along-song, all while floating down the river and taking in views of the wildlife. Kids will love the opportunity to play with foam swords. One last amazing stop is the Enchanted Forest, where you can visit British Columbia’s tallest treehouse or explore a large cedar stump house.

Jasper National Park

One of the most popular attractions is the Columbia Icefields SkyWalk which is a glass floor walkway that comes out from the cliff’s edge. This 1km walkway allows you to view waterfalls, and wildlife while listening to a guided tour.

Make sure you check out both the upper and low Sunwapta Falls that are fed by the Athabasca Glacier and thus have clean, clear super blue water rushing over the falls. The upper falls are accessible by a short walk from the parking lot while the lower falls are quieter but require a 1.3km hike to reach the falls.

Jasper National Park offers hiking trails for all skill levels of hikers, including kids. Jasper is a magnificent park to explore, and the best trail for families is the Valley of 5 Lakes, which takes you along five different magnificent lakes. This trail is about 4.5 km and can be done with kids in 2-3 hours.

Make sure you take the Icefields Parkway, which is a 230 km mountain road that connects Jasper National Park and Banff National Park and is one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

Pro Tip : Switch Drivers halfway if you can to allow each driver to truly experience and view the landscape. 

Yoho National Park

Yoho offers beauty and solitude and is slightly quieter than some of the other national parks that are easier to access and closer to Calgary. Canoeing in the park offers views of the mountains that look picture-perfect like a postcard.

If you have older kids and like a little bit more adventure, then you might want to try Kicking Horse River Rafting with a trained guide as you overcome the challenges of the river. Local Rafting Companies offer half-day and full-day tour options.

Find one of the most common symbols of Canada (red Adirondack chairs) located in two different locations within Yoho National Park, offering a place to rest and enjoy the views.

The chairs in Yoho National Park are located at Takakkaw Falls and Yoho Lake and are only 4 of the over 200 chairs that have been located across Canada to encourage tourists to explore our country and take in the magnificent landscape that Canada has from the West to East Coast.

Pro Tip : If you are planning on spending more than 7 days in Canadian National Parks , then we highly suggest purchasing a yearly pass as it works out to be more cost-effective. 

Lake Louise

Enjoy the beauty of water at Lake Louise as you enjoy a family paddle with a mountain backdrop.

The Lake Louise Boathouse rents canoes for an hourly rate of $ 145 CAD an hour, and they can hold a maximum of 3 adults of 2 adults and 2 children that weigh less than 55 pounds. Otherwise, you will need to divide them into 2 canoes. Kayaks are also available for rental.

Take a hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House, which offers spectacular food and views of the Rockies. The trailhead starts at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. This trail can be slightly steep and is about a 6.5km return trip that takes 2-3 hours of hiking. Enjoy a cup of tea and check out the cascading waterfall just below the tea house.

If you are not into hiking, then you can take the Lake Louise Gondola, which gives you the best chance of spotting wildlife, including bears, as the fresh patches of meadow underneath the gondola offer plenty of delicious snacks for bears. The gondola ride takes about 15 minutes from top to bottom and offers spectacular views of the surroundings.

Pro Tip : Arrive early, as parking can be a nightmare, and if you arrive too late, you will need to rely on the shuttle to overflow parking which can take a long time and add hours to your total visit time. We suggest arriving around 7 am to guarantee a parking spot. 

Banff National Park

You have reached your final destination of Banff National Park – an outdoor adventurer’s dream location, as the landscape features the natural beauty of mountains, wildlife, historical sites, and clear turquoise lakes.

Dating back to 1885, Banff National Park was discovered and created after railway workers found multiple natural springs, although the history of the park dates back even further as Indigenous communities took care of the land for centuries.

Be sure to start your day off early by visiting the bucket list destination of Moraine Lake first, as the parking can be full by as early as 7 AM during peak season.

Moraine Lake is a glacial-fed lake in the Valley of Ten Peaks and has an elevation of almost 1900 meters. Take the Lakeshore Trail, which is flat and kid-friendly, and weave you through the forested shoreline to the Lake, where you can sit on the rocky edge and simply take in the magnificent view.

If you are looking for some quieter lakes to visit, then check out Peyto Lake and Lake Minnewanka.

Exploring More Of Canada By Road

The Canadian road trip fun doesn’t end in Banff; we also have these detailed guides:

• Continue your journey through the Rockies into the northern United States with this Banff to Glacier National Park itinerary
• In the east? Take on a Toronto To New York Road Trip or try these interesting stops on the drive from Toronto to Boston
• Discover the Best Day Trips and Weekenders From Toronto
• You won’t want to miss these 5 Incredible Scenic Drives in Nova Scotia
• Ready for the most epic cross country adventure? Drive from Toronto to Vancouver

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The Ultimate Vancouver to Banff Road Trip: An Epic Drive through Alberta and BC

last Updated: March 7, 2024 banff canada road trip vancouver whistler

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.

Planning a Canadian road trip and heading from Vancouver to Banff? Smart choice – it’s an absolutely stunning drive! But don’t even think about making the long trek without stopping, there’s just too much to see (cue all the waterfalls, mountain ranges, and waterfront parks).

Continue reading for recommended stops on any Vancouver to Banff road trip, as well as what to do (plenty), what to eat (lots), and where to stay (tons of options).

Psst – you may wanna grab a pen and take some notes: this is a long post we’re about to dive into!

Ohhh, Canada, and the Rockies in general (no, I won’t start singing the national anthem). I’ve been to this part of the country quite a few times now in the last 2 years (4 to be exact), and I have to say, British Columbia and Alberta are places I can see myself heading back to for years to come.

I’m usually all about that “new-place, new-experience” mindset, but Canada keeps calling me back. And I’m a-okay with that.

I took a 2 week road trip throughout the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Alberta not too long ago, and whoa. WHOA. I had seen a few photos of this area on Insta and Pinterest before (okay, who am I kidding, I’ve basically stalked Explore Canada’s feeds for ages), but was not expecting what I saw firsthand.

So much raw beauty it was un-f***king-believable. I swear, every day was better than the last, and I left with a newfound appreciation (and unsatiated lust) for my neighbor up north. 

Planning other travels in Canada? Check out my top recs in Montreal ( summer and winter ), Fernie (summer), Vancouver , Toronto (winter), and Niagara Falls .

If you follow this Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary, I can promise that you’ll discover more rugged natural beauty, towering trees, glistening glacial lakes, and tasty treats (hellooooo Nanaimo bars) than you thought possible along the way.

This trip to the Canadian Rockies will have you wondering why you haven’t explored the region before, and you’ll quickly see why! 

Over the course of the road trip, expect to drive approximately 12 hours (one way) and around 600 miles (or 950 km – and yes, they use km in Canada!).

In order to drive from Vancouver to Banff in a reasonable amount of time and still do all the things (besides just drive), you’ll want to allocate at least a week for this trip, preferably a bit longer (10 days would be absolutely ideal so you don’t have to rush around like a madman).

If you have any long hikes on your wish-list, you may want to plan a few extra days into your itinerary so you don’t miss the top tourist sites as well. And thankfully, there’s only a few bouts of driving longer than a few hours, as many of the stops are relatively close to each other. 

→ Check out my road trip packing guide for must-have items and other handy tips and tricks (helpful even if you’re an experienced road tripper, promise!)

Overview of this Vancouver to Banff Drive

Estimated Driving Time (scenic route): 12 hours

* Note that you can drive directly from Vancouver to Banff in a mere 9 ½ hours (okay, so it’s actually not much shorter time wise), but what’s the fun in that?! May as well spend a few extra days exploring on the road. 

• Stop 1: Vancouver
• Stop 2: Squamish 
• Stop 3: Whistler 

Stop 4: Kamloops 

• Stop 5: Glacier National Park of Canada 
• Stop 6: Golden 
• Stop 7: Emerald Lake
• Stop 8: Lake Louise 
• Stop 9: Banff 

Getting to Vancouver

First things first, if you’re not a resident of Vancouver, you’ll of course need to get yourself there! Since Vancouver International Airport (airport code VYR) is a major international airport, (it’s actually the second busiest airport in Canada), you can easily find cheap airfare within the states, especially from the West Coast.

Coming from SFO, I can typically find flights for as little as $250 (roundtrip), dependent on the time of year and how much flexibility I’ve got of course. 

I swear by Skyscanner and Google Flights whenever searching for airline tickets, and more often times than not, find the cheapest prices on one of them. The ability to track prices (and get email notifications whenever there’s a price drop) is top notch and one of my favorite features. Take advantage of Skyscanner , you guys!

If you’ll be following this Vancouver to Banff itinerary and heading east (without driving the direct 9+ hours back to Vancouver), you’ll want to book two one-way tickets. 1) HOME → YVR (Vancouver), 2) YYC (Calgary) → HOME.

Make sure to search for one-way flights when booking tickets. ? They’re not always more expensive compared to roundtrip as many think, and I frequently choose this option when it saves me a great deal of time (especially helpful for us folks who have full-time jobs and all).

Renting a Car

Since this is in fact a road trip , you’ll need a vehicle to get you from place to place! Worth mentioning so you don’t forget to account for the cost of a rental car when following this Vancouver to Banff drive! I like to search via this site in order to compare rental companies to see who has the best price. 

Note that many rental car shops charge extra for returning their cars at different pick up/drop off locations – just something to keep in mind (worth the extra cost to me – I would rather pay an extra fee than drive an extra 9+ hours (with gas!), plus the cost of a possible hotel on the way back depending how you time your trip).

And if you’re thinking of driving roundtrip, consider stopping at a few places en route to Banff, and save the rest for the way back to Vancouver. Basically, break it up so you’re not seeing all the things on the way to Banff, and then nothing on the boring ride home.

Do note that many car rentals in Canada require proof of insurance. My credit card includes car rental insurance, so I book with that and it’s automatically covered. Be prepared to show proof, or pay up for the over priced insurance through the car rental agency once you get there.

→ Search for the best car rental prices here . I bet you’ll find a great deal! We saved over $100 on our last rental just by quickly using this site.

When to Take this Vancouver to Banff road trip: 

This post assumes you’ll be driving during the warm summer months of June-September, although anytime between April and October will do. 

Summer (June-September) in the Rockies and this part of Canada in general is absolutely glorious. It doesn’t get ridiculously sweltering like it does in parts of the states, with a good amount of cool nights and fresh mornings. I took this trip in July (and then re-visited Banff/Jasper again the following year in mid-August), and the temps were just right. 

Do note that the summer months of June-August are the most popular, and therefore the most crowded, but well worth it to have the greatest chance of picture-perfect weather.

There will still be snow on the ground in some parts (especially in the mountains of Whistler), and as you veer away from July/August it’ll be cooler. Plan to take a jacket or two during summer as it gets quite chilly at night and in the early morning.

October through March will be cold and rainy/snowy throughout much of both BC and Alberta. While Banff in winter is absolutely gorgeous, unless you’re a super experienced driver or absolutely die-hard love the snow, I wouldn’t suggest driving from Vancouver to Banff in the dead of winter.

If you’re set on visiting the area then, I highly recommend just flying from Vancouver to Calgary and making the 1.5 hour drive to Banff. Alternatively, there are 2-day sleeper trains that go directly from Vancouver to Banff, if you’d rather stare out the window admiring the snowy flakes instead of missing out on them from above. 

However, do note that the drive is possible as long as you use caution (the Trans-Canada highway is as good as it’s gonna get), but you can never predict the winter weather (which may cause driving to be difficult/unsafe).

Always use caution when planning to drive in the winter months, and stock up on necessities (water, extra tire, etc) just in case you somehow get stranded on the road (highways shut down/flat tire/etc).

Where to Stay Along the Drive from Vancouver to Banff:

If you’re following all the stops on this Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary, you’ll want to make hotel reservations in advance, especially if you’re visiting from May to October.

We 99.99% book accommodations beforehand (minus that one time we booked day of during our cross-country road trip ), and this is one of those trips where I feel it’s necessary to get everything squared away early on during planning.

It should be noted that hotels book up exceptionally fast in the Lake Louise/Banff/Jasper area, so if you’re planning on spending the night over in those parts, plan to book at least a few months out.

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

For a 10-day road trip, I recommend staying in the following areas with preferable number of nights: 

• Vancouver (2 nights)
• Squamish (1 night)
• Whistler (2 nights)
• Kamloops or Golden (1 night)
• Lake Louise (2 nights)
• Banff (2 nights)

And if you’ve got an extra two days or so, head up north via the Icefields Parkway en route to Jasper! I mean, if you’re already all the way over here, it’d just be plain silly to miss out on these two stunning additions.

If you have your heart set on visiting Jasper as well, it may make sense to book a flight home out of Edmonton, just FYI, as it’s closer to Jasper than driving back to Calgary or Vancouver.

Enough jibber jabber! Now let’s get this Vancouver to Banff road trip under way!

The Complete Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary

*Note that distances are approximate only. If you’re visiting in the busy summer months, expect some traffic. And if you’re visiting in the winter, you’ll need to account for unfavorable weather and possible road closures.

It’s wise to start your mornings early to not only beat some traffic, but to arrive at destinations before the intense crowds start to take over the place. Plan to begin any long hikes early on in the day as it gets extremely hot once the summer sun gets high in the sky!

Stop #1: Start in Vancouver

Vancouver to Banff trip officially begins! | Stay 2-3 days

Get ready, because this west coast seaport city is your starting point for your entire Vancouver to Banff road trip! And depending on whether you live in Vancouver or not (which I’m most likely guessing not), you’ll want to make sure to spend a few days in the area before setting off for Banff! 

First things first – Vancouver is absolutely gorgeous (as you’ll see with the bulk of the stops on this itinerary). Let’s just say, despite Vancouver being a city and all, you’ll never feel deprived of nature – it’s got snow-capped mountains to the north and that deep blue Pacific Ocean to its left.

It’s beauty has even made it on multiple “Most Beautiful Cities of the World” – including Forbes and Buzzfeed. And all that nature just gives way for tons of outdoor recreational activities – from skiing and snow sports in the winter to kayaking, hiking, camping, and biking most months outta the year. 

Besides getting into nature (green space within the city included), Vancouver’s got a thriving art, theatre, and music scene, some of the freshest seafood you’ll find around (salmon lovers won’t leave hungry), and a local fave – BC Bud (yup, apparently marijuana is a big thing here). 

With two days in Vancouver, you can easily fit in these activities:

Stanley Park: Now here’s a public park you shouldn’t miss (along with it’s 8 million annual visitors). Since the park covers a great deal of land (I mean, it is over 1,000 acres), plan to rent a bike so you can really see all it has to offer. Lovely beaches, miles of trails, ever-blooming gardens, and even a pool and an aquarium.

Many bike the Stanley Park Seawalls, a 10km seawall loop around the park, which passes by Coal Harbour, Siwash Rock, Brockton Point, Lumberman’s Arch, the Totem Poles (don’t miss these), and much more.

Hit up the Beach : Betcha didn’t realize that Vancouver is actually a city full of beaches. There’s swimming at English Bay within Stanley Park, volleyball and a heated outdoor pool at Kitsilano Beach (known as Kits Beach to locals), and tennis, volleyball, and fishing at Jericho Beach.

Locarno’s quite quiet, Second Beach boasts an outdoor pool (like Kits), while Third Beach is great for sunset barbecues. Do note that the ocean water stays rather chilly around 60F (yes, even in summer), so don’t count on swimming for long. Steer clear of Wreck Beach if nudes aren’t your thing – it’s Canada’s first (legal) clothing-optional beach!

Check out the Waterfront/Canada Place : Sure, Canada Place is technically a convention center, but one visit will prove way more than a hotel and ferry terminal. Built to look like a ship, you’ll find sweeping views of the Vancouver Harbour as well as tons of restaurants, shops, and bars.

Stop by the Digital Orca, a lego-ized sculpture of a killer whale located right next to the Vancouver Convention Centre for some fun photos.

Grouse Mountain : Grab your hiking boots, because we’re going hiking! This vast alpine playground is just 15 minutes from downtown Vancouver, and is the perfect place to get in your steps (it ain’t called “Mother Nature’s Stairmaster” for nothing)!

The Grouse Grind has a steep grade and tons of elevation gain (2,800 feet!!!), making for an intense 90-minute morning trek.

But once at the top, be prepared for stunning panoramic views of the area below – including the Pacific Ocean, Gulf Islands, the city of Vancouver, neighboring mountain peaks, and nearby inlets and bays. Thankfully, if you don’t want your thighs to hate you, there’s a gondola which takes visitors up the mountain wilderness, offering the same views as the grueling hike.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park : Get high above the treetops, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the rainforest and canyon below. Included in the price of admission is three, heart-wrenching activities: the world-famous Capilano Suspension Bridge (spanning over the Capilano River), 7 bridges of Treetops Adventure, and the thrilling Cliffwalk (sitting 700ft above the granite cliffside).

P.S. If the descriptions didn’t give it away, this may not be the best place for those with a fear of heights. Despite being one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vancouver, I honestly found it a bit underwhelming and theme-park like.

The gals I were with loved it; pretty sure it has something to do with having redwoods and other larger-than-life trees right near me in The Bay Area of California .

Do note that it gets rather crowded, which may unfortunately distract from enjoying the nature and grounds.

Granville Island: This old industrial district has been transformed into a little oasis of unique shops (think brooms and artisanal chocolate) and restaurants. There’s also the Granville Island Brewing Company (cold beer, anyone?), a distillery, a sake house, and a fabulous indoor market filled with treats for lunch or for later on in the trip.

You’ll find a tour through Granville Market to be one of the most authentic ways to experience Vancouver.  Plus, who doesn’t love fresh, local, seasonal produce? I visited the market but was completely overwhelmed and really wish I had hopped on a quick tour to actually learn about the area.

And no, Granville’s not technically an island, but a little patch of land poking out into the inlet (which makes it, in fact, a peninsula). 

Gastown: This lively neighborhood in Vancouver, full of cobblestoned streets, beautiful Victorian buildings, and dramatic ocean views would be worth the visit even without the myriad of fantastic coffee bars, indie art galleries, and hip eateries.

Besides checking out the whistling Steam Clock (yup, don’t miss this quirky attraction right on the street), spend an afternoon walking along Water Street.

You’ll want to loop around and walk back up Cordova Street, stopping off at Blood Alley for some tacos or L’Abattoir for a fancy feed. If you’re in the mood for some food, hop on a Gastown food walking tour for some of the best delights in the area! 

→ Read Next: Top Things to do in Vancouver

A few other things Vancouver’s got going for it: 

• That sweet, sweet fresh mountain (and ocean, and forest, and beach) air. Vancouver’s surrounded by mountains and located practically next to the sea. You definitely won’t be missing nature, that’s for sure!
• You can walk almost everywhere in Vancouver! There’s no freeways, which must mean it’s quite compact, right? Psst – no need to rent a car just yet! Biking is the way to go around these parts. However, do note if you wanna get to the Capilano Suspension Bridge, you’ll need to catch a bus or taxi (Uber’s banned in Vancouver, just FYI), as it’s not within walking distance in the least bit. 
• Vancouver as a whole is regarded as a very safe city. Just be aware of petty crime – it’s unfortunately quite the problem in Vancouver (surprisingly, since this is Canada we’re talking about).
• Vancouver’s actually one of Canada’s most ethnically diverse cities, which I love considering the fact that I grew up right outside of New York City and worked in Harlem for a bunch of years. 

So basically, yeah, Vancouver is kinda awesome. You just might not wanna leave (but then you’ll miss out on all the beauty in Banff – and that’s my absolute favorite place in all of Canada – so keep moving!).

Where to Stay in Vancouver: There are quite a few neighborhoods in Vancouver and it can get overwhelming to say the least. I recommend staying in Downtown Vancouver (in either Gastown/Chinatown, Yaletown, or along the Waterfront) at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver , Rosewood Hotel Georgia , L’Hermitage Hotel , or Wedgewood Hotel and Spa .

Stop #2: Squamish 

TOTAL DRIVE TIME: 1 hour from Vancouver | Stay 1-2 full days, dependent on desired hikes

*As you make your way from Vancouver to Whistler, you’ll be driving on the awe-inspiring Sea-to-Sky Highway (officially known as BC Highway 99). “Sea” for Vancouver’s location next to the ocean, and “Sky” for the grandiose height of the Pemberton mountains a bit north of Whistler.

The route through Squamish I’m suggesting is just this, so you won’t miss any of the sites! And while the stops I’m suggesting are the most popular, feel free to explore further if you just can’t part with the views (although the whole trip will be filled with ‘em, you’ll see).

Be sure to make a few stops, favorites being Porteau Cove Provincial Park for it’s stunning blue views, Shannon Falls Provincial Park (to witness this 335 meter waterfall), and the ever-so-popular Sea to Sky Gondola.

You’ve gotta head north anyways, so you may as well make a stop at Squamish, better known as Canada’s outdoor adventure capital! It’s an absolute mecca for rock climbers, mountain bikers, and kite surfers, with white water rafting, paddle boarding, kayaking, and windsurfing available as well.

Hikers will find tons of famous, awe-inspiring trails, leading to turquoise-colored, glacier-fed lakes and through flower-filled meadows. But if you’re not a professional athlete (I sure ain’t one), don’t fret – there’s still a bunch to do for us not-as-physically-gifted common folks.

This authentic West Coast mountain town, built around mining and forestry, features farm to table dining, sidewalk cafes, and even driftwood beaches.

Sea to Sky Gondola : If there’s just one thing you do on your drive from Vancouver to Whistler, make it be this one. This dramatic gondola over the Howe Sound is as stunning as it sounds – views from both the gondola and lookout platforms are incredible.

Over the course of the 12-minute ride, the spectacular views gradually unfold, and don’t stop once you arrive at the summit! Besides the snow-capped mountains and ocean inlets to photograph, you’ll also find some great walks starting at the summit, a rocky (yet perfectly safe) suspension bridge, and a cafe/restaurant.

Shannon Falls Provincial Park: As the 3rd largest waterfall in British Columbia, and towering above Howe Sound at 335m, Shannon Falls is one of the most popular sights on the Sea-to-Sky Highway.

And since it’s only a 15-20 minute walk to reach the falls (along the Shannon Falls trails) from the parking lot, this provincial park is well worth the short stop on your Vancouver to Banff drive.

Please, oh please, if you’re heading near/in the water, be extra careful over there – a few vloggers were swept to their deaths not too long ago. We only hiked to to the viewpoint and didn’t make it in the water, but I heard the slick rocks closer to the falls make this pretty dangerous. Use your judgement and never risk your life for a photo/video. Just please.

Mount Garibaldi and Garibaldi Lake: Seen from so many vantage points in the area, this massive (still-active) volcano is monstrously huge (with peaks up to 8786 feet high), with Garibaldi Lake below.

If you wanna get in a long hike, check out Panorama Ridge, a 28.3km (18 mile) heavily trafficked loop trail, complete with a stunning turquoise lake, deep forests, idyllic streams, and flower-filled meadows.

You’ll definitely need to account an entire day (or longer) for this trek, as many choose to camp out along the way since it takes between 9-12 hours (making for an exceptionally long day hike). But those pristine views of Garibaldi Lake are well-worth the exhausting effort.

But thankfully, if you’re not up for a super-strenuous day, you can still get great views of Mount Garibaldi from elsewhere, such as Brandywine Meadows high up in the mountains.

Hike The Chief: Not up for a multi-day hike, but still wanna get your legs moving? The Stawamus Chief hiking route, a classic hike in the Squamish area, may be just what you’re looking for.

It’s still considered an intermediate hike (just wait for those challenging uphill sections), taking roughly 90 minutes or so to reach Peak 1 (with an elevation gain of 500m), and slightly longer/higher to reach the other two peaks. And you can even begin this trek right off the Sea to Sky Highway.

Breweries : Beer lovers, you’re in luck – Squamish is full of local craft beer, with its trio of local breweries (affectionately dubbed the Squamish Ale Trail): Howe Sound Brewing, A-Frame Brewing, and Backcountry Brewing. You’ll find brewpubs, rustic tasting rooms, and a large range of beers, and on-site pizza, in addition to two cideries and a spirit distillery in town as well. 

Where to Stay in Squamish: You’ll find accommodation of all shapes and sizes in Squamish, from charming riverside cabins and budget-friendly motels to fully equipped suites and luxurious hotels.

My top picks include:

• Sea to Sky Hotel (with a great view of Mount Garibaldi)
• Sandman Hotel & Suites (conveniently located right off the highway)
• Mountain Retreat (for a bit of log-cabin romance alongside the picturesque Howe Sound).

Stop #3: Whistler

TOTAL DRIVE TIME: 45 minutes from Squamish | Stay 2-3 Days

Whistler is mostly known to be a winter destination, having one of the largest ski resorts in all of North America (and that my friends, is the famous Whistler Blackcomb). And although it’s claim to fame is it’s freezing winter months, I ended up visiting Whistler during the summer, and still found enough activities to fill two entire days.

If you’ve only allotted one day in this mountain town when driving from Vancouver to Banff, do the following: head up the Peak 2 Peak Gondola, go for a short trek (the Train Wreck Hike or Snow Walls have my vote), and go for a little stroll around Whistler Village (ice cream from COWS in hand).

However, with two-three days in Whistler, you can easily do all the activities below if you plan properly. Pick and choose your favorites if you’ve got less time.

Wander around Whistler Village : Nestled at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, Whistler Village has a sort of European charm that you’ll instantly feel after only spending a few hours in the area. It’s compact, super pedestrian friendly, and full of cute chalets.

And trust me, it’s one of the most authentic alpine villages you’ll ever visit with stone walkways, little bridges, lots of nature, and tons of shops, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Peak 2 Peak Gondola : The PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola (which links the side-by-side mountains of Whistler and Blackcomb) provides an awe-inspiring scenic experience in Canada’s coastal mountains. We’re talking views for days ( and days and days and days ).

It was one of my favorite activities during my few days in Whistler (although, surprise, surprise – I kinda enjoyed everything we did).  And if you’re really feeling it (and don’t mind shelling out a few more bucks), you can ride the special silver glass-bottom gondola ( hello tree tops and valleys and glaciers and mountains). 

Note that a ticket on the PEAK 2 PEAK gondola not only gives you a birds eye view of all that impressive nature stuff below you, but provides access to all the mountain attractions in one day (snow walls, dining on the rooftop, numerous hikes, etc).

You may even see (or hear) a marmot, a stocky creature commonly found sunning themselves on nearby rocks (sounds like my kinda afternoon).

Whistler ziplining : If (literally) flying through the forest sounds like your idea of fun, you’ve gotta book yourself on a zipline tour in Whistler.

Be one with nature and soar over ancient, lush rainforests, spectacular creeks and through majestic old-growth trees on plenty of lines (including The Sasquatch, which just so happens to be North America’s longest zipline #truestory).

I’ve ziplined in Belize and Croatia as well, and always love the adrenaline rush of zipping above the trees (while being strapped in the harness of course).

Go Inukshuk hunting : Inuk what?! That was exactly my question when I first heard of them. I quickly learned that inukshuk are structures of rough stones stacked in the form of human figures, used traditionally by the Inuit people. Today, they are known as symbols of hope and friendship.

Psst – they won’t be hard to find (we found inukshuks almost everywhere we went in Whistler).

Train Wreck Hike : Ever thought you’d be trekking to old derailed train cars scattered next to the Cheakamus River? Yeah, neither did I, until a few friends coaxed me into getting my fitness on one morning (good thing, because I was throwing back a few too many nanaimo bars).

And being only 3 miles roundtrip on mostly flat terrain with only a handful of hilly sections, there’s a reason this trek is a long-time favorite among hikers and mountain bikers.

Once we got there, we couldn’t stop taking photos of the cars, climbing on the cars, exploring the graffitied cars, and walking around/under/over the seven train cars.

Hike the snow walls on Pika’s Traverse: Imagine walking between two giant walls of piled-high snow over 10 feet high. Yup, it’s possible on Whistler Peak. Do note that a walk between the snow walls is only possible select months of the year, particularly in early summer, once the previous winter snow has started to melt.

I honestly didn’t know what to expect, and wow, it’s like nothing I’ve ever experienced. Psst – this short(ish) trek is relatively easy on flat land, and will take roughly 60-90 minutes. You’ll need to take the gondola up Whistler Mountain to find Pika’s Traverse and the labyrinth of snow walls. A must stop on any Vancouver to Banff drive!

Brandywine Falls Provincial Park: One last thing not to miss – another waterfall (I mean, this is the place for it). And thankfully, this one’s as easy as it gets – you can reach the viewing platform (which overlooks those spectacular 70meter high falls) in a mere 15 minutes from the parking lot. On flat terrain I might add – aka no climbing!

Where to Stay in Whistler : While there’s lots of choice in the area, I recommend staying directly in Whistler Village, the main hub with access to lifts, a great variety of restaurants, shopping, and oh so excellent people watching along the Village pathway (pedestrian only). 

Check out Pan Pacific Whistler Mountainside (with a prime location at the base of Whistler mountain), Summit Lodge Boutique (who can say no to a hot tub for a great value!?), and the Pinnacle Hotel Whistler (affordable luxury).

TOTAL DRIVE TIME: 4 hours from Whistler | Stay: 1 day (including morning drive from Whistler)

Today’s a bit of a longer drive, so either get out early and start making your way to Kamloops, or spend some extra time in Whistler and choose to spend the second half of the day on the road.

I mean, you could technically skip Kamloops and drive the 7 hours straight to Glacier, but if you’ve got time, might as well stop, at least to stretch your legs and throw back a glass of wine (or two).

And hey, the locals of Kamloops are known as “The friendliest in BC”, so you’re bound to run into a good time or two.

Speaking of vino, Kamloops boasts BC’s newest wine region, with a handful of vineyards and wineries along the Kamloops Wine Trail. It’s nowhere near as large as Napa, but its emerging –  so expect new tours among the grapes to be popping up every year. Lots of tastings available in this little city, so be sure to come thirsty.  

Kamloops is not as well known as it’s neighboring cities of Whistler and Glacier National Park of Canada, but it’s worth a stop as it’s surroundings aren’t any less stunning. As you’ll see on this Vancouver to Banff road trip that basically all of Canada is just as impressive as your last stop, even the places you’ve never heard of.

*I don’t recommend spending the night in Kamloops, unless there’s a dire need for it. Not to say that it’s unsafe or anything, but you won’t find too much to do in terms of nightlife. I suggest making your way over to Glacier, stopping for a quick bit, then spending the night in Golden.

Stop #5: Glacier National Park of Canada

TOTAL DRIVE TIME: 3 hours from Kamloops | Stay for afternoon at Rogers Pass, longer for hiking

Don’t let its name confuse you; Glacier National Park has no affiliation with its name twin over in Montana. But yes, it’s still rich in natural wonders and steeped in history like you’d expect.

Although Glacier National Park of Canada doesn’t have the same fame of Banff or Jasper, it’s still worthy of a quick visit (and less crowded to boot)!

Don’t miss Rogers Pass (a mountain pass with history exhibits), hiking to the toe of Illecillewaet Glacier (you’ll need more than a quick visit for this), checking out 360 degree views from Glacier Circle, and taking a 1-hour stroll on the short yet streep trail down to Bear Creek Falls.

For full transparency, we just made a super quick stop here, getting out to stretch our legs and learn a bit of history at Rogers Pass.

Stop #6: Golden

TOTAL DRIVE TIME: 40 minutes from Glacier NP | Stay 1 night and 1 day

The friendly mountain town of Golden, surrounded by mountain ranges and historic rivers, is a great place to break up the drive from Kamloops and Yoho National Park. You won’t find many accommodation options in Glacier National Park, so may as well sleep in Golden (for a lot less money than in Lake Louise or Banff for that matter). 

Golden is known as the “Heart of the Parks” (makes sense since it’s surrounded by six of Canada’s national parks), so you’re well connected and not terribly far from anything in the area.

But before you rush outta town, check out the Northern Lights Wolf Centre (a wildlife preserve dedicated solely to wolves), Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge (Canada’s longest freestanding timber frame bridge), the Art Gallery of Golden, and possibly even go on an alpine rafting adventure.

Golden’s claim to fame is Kicking Horse Mountain Resort , with tons of ski runs (perfect right after some fresh powder), in addition to an on-site grizzly bear named Boo (who was rescued as a baby when his mother was hit by a car).

And if you’re into white water rafting, Golden is the perfect spot for some intense Class 3/4 rapids on the Kicking Horse River. Be aware that the water is never warm, so you’ll need to get all bundled up in dry and wet suits (which companies thankfully provide – no one keeps a spare wetsuit in their trunk, right?).

We chose to sleep in and get some much needed rest, so we skipped out on the rafting and decided to walk along the Columbia River instead. Plus, I know for a fact I would have fallen riiiight into the water, oars and all. Some of my friends went rafting and loved it, so know that if you’re less clumsy than me, you’ll probably have a grand old time.

Visiting during winter? There’s skiing (downhill and cross-country), snowmobiling, apres ski, and snowshoeing, just to name a few of its namesakes.

Where to Stay in Golden: If your funds don’t allow you to stay at the iconic Kicking Horse Mountain Resort (or it’s all booked up), plan to stay at either Mount 7 Lodges (with private hot tubs and mountain views), Winston Lodge (luxurious and intimate), or Glacier Mountaineer Lodge (more great views!)

Stop #7: Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park 

TOTAL DRIVE TIME: 50 minutes from Golden | Stay ½ – 1 day

Ohhhh, Emerald Lake. Possibly my favorite of all the alpine lakes in all of Canada, even more so than the stunning Lake Louise (bold statement, yes I know). A few hours will be sufficient, but make sure to get an early start to the day to reach the lake before the masses arrive (and they do so in bus loads)!

If you plan to sleep in Golden the night before, you’ll be under an hour from Yoho National Park, and Emerald Lake in particular.

Trust me, after seeing the glistening, emerald waters with the greenest pine trees reflecting in the water, you’ll never want to leave. Happened to us! My friends had to literally drag me to the car, that’s how much I loved it.

Be sure to take a walk around the perimeter, as you’ll find yourself away from the crowds with the place almost to yourselves. 

And plus, despite the high price tag, renting a canoe and paddling the lake is high on my bucket list. We hadn’t accounted for the time we’d need to do so, so unfortunately missed out on this (there’s always a next time for us)! 

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

Some plan to spend a few nights at Emerald Lake Lodge , a peaceful resort overlooking the lake, but I think one night is more than enough (although entirely not necessary). However, I can’t even begin to imagine how peaceful it must be waking up to those emerald green lake views below.

Stop #8: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake 

TOTAL DRIVE TIME: 30 minutes from Emerald Lake | STAY 1-2 days, dependent upon hikes you choose

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 either of these during your Vancouver to Banff drive.

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? You can plan to take the shuttle bus from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake, 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! 

Once you arrive 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.

LAKE LOUISE

Psst – If I had all the time in the world, I’d choose to visit Lake Louise twice. Once right after Emerald Lake in Yoho, and then again so the following day after Moraine. One day will suffice if you aren’t planning on tackling too many hikes in the area.

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 Vancouver to Banff road trip.

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 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.

Don’t fret though, each season comes with an abundance of activities. There’s a canoe dock in the summer (with those famous red kayaks for rent), along with numerous hiking/sunbathing opportunities, while a skating rink on the frozen lake and an ice bar await in the winter.

I’ve visited Lake Louise in both summer and winter , and have to say, choosing between seasons is no easy task (they’re both downright stunning in their own way).

Once you arrive, you’ll see that everyone and their mother (and grandmother, sister, uncle, nephew, etc) wants to take photos on the boulders at the shoreline, and people actually line up to do so. All for the same rock!

Little do they know, there’s large rocks bordering the entire shore, so if you just walk 2 minutes, you’re bound to find another worthy boulder to stand on for your insta-photo. TL;DR: there’s no reason to wait in line for photos here.

And on that note, yup, it’s 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.

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.

Where to Stay in Lake Louise:

Many opt to spend the night at The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise , and after checking it out a few times, I can honestly say I’ll be booking a night (or two) here with my husband on my next visit (it was all sold out last time – we planned our trip kinda late).

Thankfully, non-guests are allowed inside the resort, so we can all just swoon with jealousy (hahaha, but no, really, the resort is just gorgeous and I get why it’s high on everyone’s bucket lists).

If handing over your first born child isn’t your idea of fun (but in all honesty, now’s a great time to visit since the US dollar is oh so strong – you’ll essentially save ~25% if you go now when the conversion rate is to our advantage), check out other hotels in the area, including Lake Louise Inn , Deer Lodge , and HI Lake Louise Alpine Center (great hostel for those of us on a more budget option).

Do note that there isn’t really much “budget” accommodation around here – hotels know they’ve got prime real estate and aren’t afraid to make you pay for it.

Stop #9: Town of Banff and Beyond

TOTAL DRIVE TIME: 40 minutes from Lake Louise | STAY 2-3 days

We made it to Banff! Phew! It seems like a whole lotta driving, but in reality, it’s not terribly long. 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).

Technicallllyyy , Banff National Park includes Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, but we’ve already visited those on our drive from Vancouver to Banff. You can choose to spend these nights in Banff Town and visit the lakes from here, as the accommodation options are sparse and/or more expensive the closer you get to Lake Louise.

With two days in Banff proper, you can easily fit in these activities:

Johnston Canyon Hike : 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 easily hike to the lower falls in 1 mile (roundtrip), upper falls in 3 miles (roundtrip), and the ink pots in 6.5 miles (roundtrip).

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.

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 more, along 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.

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

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 be sure to bring along some bear spray if you’re planning a hike!

Walk along Banff Avenue and in town : Banff has got to be one of the cutest mountain towns I’ve encountered in a very long time, and this bustling main street can’t be beat. You’ll find dramatic mountain views while walking down the popular street, in addition to tons of shops, restaurants, art galleries, and more.

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.

Banff Upper Hot Spring: 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. 

Surprise Corner Viewpoint: You’re driving and driving along Tunnel Mountain Road, and 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.

What/Where to eat in Banff:

• Indulge in some fondue: Creamy, cheesy, deliciously-indulgent fondue. No matter the season, make sure you spend a night stuffing your face with some of the good stuff. I’ve had the fondue at both Waldhaus at the Fairmont ($$$) and Ticino ($), and can honestly say I left wishing for more (although my stomach definitely couldn’t handle another bite). Don’t miss the chocolate fondue – great at both spots as well!

• Grab yourself a BeaverTail (or two): Craving a sweet, sweet, sugary midday snack? Stop by and pick up one of these greasy goodnesses – they’re kinda like a Canadian institution around these parts. Five parts fried dough, two parts toppings of your choice (I opted for the nutella and reese’s pieces), and 6,371 calories (kidding of course, but you’ll see what I mean after you stuff it down your throat).
• Poutine : Fries with cheese curds and gravy; enough said. 
• Breakfast spots : A hearty breakfast is extra important if you’ll be out exploring all day. I particularly enjoy Whitebark Cafe, Wild Flour, and Good Earth Coffeehouse.

Where to Stay in Banff: I recommend staying as close to Banff Ave as possible, as there are numerous hotels directly on this long road. By doing so, you’ll be within walking distance to a wide array of restaurants, so they’ll be no need to park your car over here (many hotels have at least some parking).

Be sure to book your stay WAY in advance should you be visiting during the prime tourist season of summer.

A few recommended options: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (it’s literally a castle and absolutely breathtaking, so of course I have to suggest it), Elk + Avenue Hotel (hip and trendy with mountain views), Moose Hotel & Suites (super stylish), and Samesun Banff (centrally located hostel).

After quite a bit of a drive, the road trip is officially over! Unless you want to continue on up north via the Icefields Parkway to Jasper National Park (plan an additional 2-3 days for this). More info on these spots coming up shortly – be on the lookout for those!

Are you planning an upcoming road trip from Vancouver to Banff?! Bring me home a few BeaverTails, please and thank you! 🙂

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April 10, 2020 at 9:00 pm

I enjoyed your post and found it very helpful, thanks

July 1, 2020 at 9:21 pm

Just loved it…so helpful thankyou

July 25, 2021 at 10:49 am

thank you! it sounds amazing and very helpful!

June 16, 2023 at 11:38 am

Really enjoyed your descriptions and recommendations, but when I hit your Skyscanner link it says “Oops, Your Offer Not Found”. You may want to check that. We’re planning on a 9-10 day trip during first week of September and are organizing now. Thanks for a great site!

June 20, 2023 at 5:57 pm

wow! The itinerary looks pretty solid, We are going to follow your itinerary. I hope these places are not jam packed at the end of August.

June 22, 2023 at 4:14 pm

End of August is definitely high season. I’d recommend starting your days early and hitting up the most popular spots before noon. Have a great trip! The Canadian rockies are unbelievable! Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and the town of Banff will be the most crowded.

March 13, 2024 at 5:19 pm

We live in Portland and have a business trip In Vancouver. We are driving and from there going to Banff. Your itinerary looks amazing. Question: Do we follow the same trip back?

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27 BEST Stops On A Vancouver to Banff Road Trip

Unlike many drives in the world, the drive from Vancouver to Banff (or Banff to Vancouver drive) is a beautiful one. There are plenty of stunning stops to make between the drive that can turn the journey into one of the best mountain road trips of your life!

Vancouver to Banff Drive FAQ

How Far is the Vancouver to Banff Drive?

How long a Banff road trip from Vancouver takes all depends on which route you take, but in general, expect the drive to be about 850 km and take anywhere from 9.5 (very fast/few stops) to 14 hours, or even longer if you really take your time!

Can You Do the Vancouver to Banff Drive in One Day?

Yes, you can drive from Vancouver to Banff in one very long day, though to make it in one day, you won’t be stopping at any of these locations mentioned unless it is just for lunch or a coffee. The drive from Vancouver to Banff is a long one and we recommend breaking it up into multiple days so you can really make the most out of it.

Can You Drive from Vancouver to Banff in the Winter?

When driving in Western Canada during winter, it’s important to exercise extra caution, especially on treacherous routes like Highway 99 over Duffy Lake Road and Rogers Pass (Revelstoke to Golden). Even with winter tires, driving in a winter storm can be extremely challenging, so if caught in one, it’s best to pull over and seek accommodation for the night.

It’s worth noting we have done the Vancouver to Banff drive multiple times in the winter, and every single time, the drive takes longer than expected because there are frequent road closures, delays, and accidents in the mountains.

From October 1 to April 30, winter tires or chains are mandatory on most British Columbia routes, as well as a few in Alberta. It’s essential to stay updated on driving conditions in Alberta via 5.11 Alberta and British Columbia via Drive BC.

Renting a Car in Canada

If you don’t have your own car, it’s best to rent a car in Vancouver or Calgary. You can rent one at Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Calgary International Airport (YYC), or Downtown Vancouver and Downtown Calgary. You can either rent a one-way or book a return trip. One-way rentals often cost more. There are a few locations to rent a car in Downtown Banff, but they are usually more expensive than in the cities.

Rates tend to get a bit cheaper once you get away from the airport and into the city. We like to use Discover Car Hire and RentalCars.com to find the best deals. See our best rental car tips before renting!

The Best Ways to Travel Between Vancouver and Calgary

• By Car: The best way to travel between Vancouver and Banff is by car. This will allow you to take as much time as you need between the route, and stop when you feel like it. You can rent a car in Vancouver and drop it off in Calgary, often for a fee. This can also be done vice versa.
• By Bus: Rider Express will take visitors between Vancouver and Banff by bus. The trip takes 15 hours and costs $161 one way.
• By Train: There is no direct train between Vancouver and Banff, however the Rocky Mountaineer runs scenic rail journeys between Vancouver and Jasper and Vancouver and Lake Louise. Not a cheap journey, but the views make it worth it. You can also look at Via Rail, which has two trains weekly running from Vancouver to Jasper.
• By Air: Of course the easiest and quickest option between Banff and Vancouver is by air. The closest airport to Banff is YYC. WestJet and AirCanada both run frequent routes between Calgary and Vancouver. I’m talking like one flight every 1-2 hours frequent. You can often find tickets for $100-200.

Vancouver to Banff Drive Routes

Fastest route.

The fastest route is to take the Trans Canada (Highway 1) from Vancouver, get on the 5 at Hope and go up through Merritt before getting back on Highway 1 in Kamloops. This is not only the quickest way, but also the easiest with the best roads. However I do find this route to be one of the most uneventful.

Most Scenic Route

In our opinion, the most scenic route is to head up to Whistler from Vancouver, and take Highway 99 through Pemberton and Cache Creek. This will take you over the Duffy Lake Road, which is a scenic route, but beware, it is subject to avalanches, and landslides, and is overall not the easiest road to drive, especially at night in the winter. We’ve been caught a few times on it in a snowstorm and can tell you it is a scary experience. Since this is the most scenic route, this is going to be the route we focus on in this article.

Alternative Scenic Route

Another scenic route is to travel Highway 1 out of Vancouver and get on Highway 3 in Hope, BC. This route will take you through the Okanagan and towns like Vernon and Kelowna, before eventually connecting you with Revelstoke.

Jasper Route

It takes 9 hours to get to Jasper from Vancouver on Highway 5 via Tête Jaune Cache, so if you have Jasper and Banff on your Banff itinerary , this is a great option. Head to Jasper first, and then when you are ready to go to Banff, take the Icefields Parkway south to Banff.

Kootenay Route

Once you get to Golden, it’s possible to stay off the Trans Canada and continue on to Radium Hot Springs , where you can hop on the Banff Windermere Highway (HWY93) and drive to Banff through Kootenay National Park. There are plenty of beautiful stops in Kootenay to enjoy.

Longest Route (Adventure option)

If you have time on your hands and want to explore some really cool towns you can take Highway 1 from Vancouver, hop on Highway 3 near Hope, and essentially drive along the border passing towns like Rossland, detour to Nelson , Fernie , and Waterton National Park . This route will take over 16 hours of driving straight through, so it’s the less traveled option but a great one if you want to pass some of Canada’s best mountain towns. (We take this route in the winter when we are looking to ski at Canada’s best ski resorts like Red Mountain, Whitewater, and Fernie).

We recommend studying a map to determine which route is best for you!

Important Things to Note

• If you plan to stop for any sightseeing or hiking in Glacier National Park, Kootenay National Park , Yoho, Banff National Park, or Jasper National Park, you will need a Parks Canada Pass. Read all about the details on how to get one here.
• Watch out for wildlife on the roads when driving from Vancouver to Banff. This includes bears, deer, elk, and moose. They are present, especially during the summer months. If you see wildlife on the road, please respect its space.
• Cell Service is intermittent on much of this drive. Notably, it is spotty to non-existent between Pemberton to Lillooet, Salmon Arm to Revelstoke, Revelstoke to Golden, and Golden to Lake Louise.
• Stay up to date with road conditions on DriveBC and 5.11 Alberta .
• Many routes will get you from Banff to Vancouver. We recommend you study a map to see which would be best for you to take and which detours may be worth your time. We are going to focus on our recommended scenic route (Whistler, Pemberton, and the Duffy Route) for this article.

Although you can reverse the stops when driving from Banff to Vancouver, we’ll begin this journey in Vancouver. This city is an ideal starting point for an exciting adventure in Western Canada, and its international airport, YVR, offers numerous domestic and international flight options.

If you choose to arrive at YVR, we strongly suggest taking a day to explore Vancouver. Despite being a bustling metropolis, Vancouver boasts an array of one-of-a-kind attractions and experiences.

Our favorite things to do in Vancouver are enjoy Capilano Suspension Bridge, Bike Around Stanley Park, stroll Lynn Canyon Park, and of course eat sushi (in our opinion Vancouver has the best sushi outside of Japan!)

Shannon Falls

Shannon Falls Provincial Park is just 58 kilometers north of Vancouver and 2 kilometers south of Squamish along the Sea to Sky Highway. It is home to the third largest waterfall in BC , Shannon Falls, and you can stop and see it at just a quick stop off the highway.

The Shannon Falls viewpoint is a favorite activity among visitors, offering a glimpse of the magnificent waterfall, just a brief hike away from the parking area. If you have time, you can also opt for a quick one-hour (round trip) walk to the base of the falls.

As you drive along the breathtaking Sea to Sky Highway, just after Shannon Falls, you’ll arrive in the large town of Squamish. Nestled at the northern edge of the Howe Sound, surrounded by mountains and coastline, this is an excellent place to stop for hiking, biking, and climbing adventures. The famous Stawamus Chief granite monolith looms over the city, impossible to miss and cherished by locals.

For adventure enthusiasts, Squamish is a veritable outdoor paradise, boasting world-class climbing, mountain biking, and numerous hiking trails. It’s likely that if you stop for lunch here, there’s a pro athlete nearby.

If you’re looking for great places to eat and drink, check out the Howe Sound Brewing Company – our favorite.

Garibaldi Lake

Continuing on the Sea to Sky Highway, you’ll quickly come across Garibaldi Provincial Park . The park is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and turquoise glacial waters. If you are basing yourself nearby and have a day to spare, the hike up the steep nine-kilometer trail (one way) can be challenging, but the stunning scenery is well worth the effort.

If you plan to visit Garibaldi Lake, obtain a day-use pass from BC Parks to help manage foot traffic and prevent overcrowding. This is one of the most popular hiking spots in the area, and as a result, BC Parks implements day-use passes.

Campsites are available near the lake if you are up for a backcountry adventure. Remember that the water is frigidly cold, so swimming may not be for everyone.

Whistler 

Considered one of Canada’s must-visit ski destinations, Whistler is a charming ski town located in British Columbia, less than two hours drive from Vancouver via the scenic Sea to Sky Highway. Whistler is renowned worldwide for being one of the top ski destinations and boasts the largest ski area in North America.

While it’s a popular winter destination for domestic and international travelers, it’s also a premier adventure spot in the summer. Whistler is a favorite among Canadian road trippers exploring Western Canada, especially those who love mountain biking and hiking.

We consider a Whistler a must-stop on any Vancouver to Banff road trip.

A mere 45 minutes beyond Whistler lies the quaint mountain town of Pemberton. Positioned at the base of Mt. Currie, the town’s primary village boasts breathtaking views that will captivate any visitor.

Despite its size, Pemberton still offers a range of shops, dining establishments, and walking trails to explore. Popular activities include visiting North Arm Farm or riding a horseback ride through the valley with Copper Cayuse Outfitters.

If accommodation and prices are too high in Whistler, Pemberton is a great alternative, as plenty of BC cabins offer lower rates than their southern neighbor.

Joffre Lakes

Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, located just past Pemberton on Duffey Lake Road, is undoubtedly one of the most gorgeous lakes in British Columbia . Trust me when I say that the hike to Joffre Lakes is absolutely worth it, and your road trip time should be carved out to experience the beauty here.

The 10km hike to Lower, Middle, and Upper Joffre Lakes has a minimal elevation gain of fewer than 400 meters, which is minimal for the area !

The reward for completing this hike is a dazzling blue lake that shimmers under the surrounding glaciers. The best time to visit Joffre Lakes is June to October, which is best for summer road trips.

As you venture beyond Joffre Lakes Provincial Park and proceed down Duffy Lake Road to the Canadian Rockies, you will arrive at Duffy Lake. At this destination, an awe-inspiring viewpoint awaits, offering breathtaking views that are simply unforgettable.

Take advantage of the picturesque setting and enjoy a picnic before embarking on the journey to Lillooet.

Kamloops is one of the larger cities in BC. It is the meeting point of the North and South Thompson rivers. Towards the city’s east, one can find the British Columbia Wildlife Park, where cougars and bears can be spotted.

To the northeast lies Sun Peaks Resort, which boasts hiking trails, a bike park, and multiple ski runs. If you are driving in the winter, it’s certainly worth a stop for skiing in a beautiful resort town.

I particularly wouldn’t say Kamloops is a must-visit on your Vancouver to Banff trip, but it’s a great place to regroup and enjoy a good restaurant or rest your head for the night.

This is a destination to head to if you are driving from Vancouver to Calgary or Calgary to Vancouver in the winter. Sun Peaks is an alpine ski resort located 56 km northeast of Kamloops.

Unlike many ski resorts in Canada , where the mountain is a bit in the middle of nowhere with few amenities, Sun Peaks is a fully serviced ski resort that is great for families looking for an entire ski vacation with restaurants and plenty of things to do. They have multiple peaks with terrain for everyone. My favorite aspect of Sun Peaks is tree skiing!

Vancouver to Banff – Hwy 97 Option

Just outside of Hope, BC is the site of Canada’s second-largest recorded landslide. In 1965 a landslide occurred near Hope; it is estimated that 47 million cubic meters of rock fell. Now the area is known as Hope Slide and can be viewed easily by visitors.

Kelowna  

Kelowna is a popular destination in the summer for those wanting to explore the Okanagan Valley. This is Canada’s famed wine region, and people will travel from around the country to sit in the sun and sip up the local Kelowna wine on the shores of Lake Okanagan.

You can also find some of the best produce in Canada here, and farmers’ markets are full in the summer and fall. We recommend the Myra Canyon Trestles if you’re up for a little hiking adventure!

If you are driving during the winter and skiing or snowboarding, plan a day or two to enjoy the slopes at Big White Ski Resort.

Less than an hour from Kelowna is the city of Vernon. Here you can enjoy more of the fresh BC goodness. In the summer, some of the best things to do are bask in the sun at Kalamalka Beach, stroll the historic main street, or buy fresh local fruit at Davidson Orchards .

Vancouver to Banff (Back on Highway 1)

Let me introduce you to Revelstoke, one of the best stops when driving between Vancouver and Banff. This charming town, nestled near the Selkirk Mountains and Glacier National Park, is among our top picks for must-visit destinations in all of Canada, particularly if you road tripping in the winter and love skiing and snowboarding.

Despite being a relatively unknown mountain town in the past, Revelstoke Mountain Resort has gained global recognition for its outstanding powder, which attracts winter sports enthusiasts year after year. Because it is situated off Trans Canada and near Rogers Pass, it is not as bustling as other Canadian mountain towns such as Whistler. Still, it has plenty to offer visitors in both summer and winter.

For those traveling from Vancouver to Banff in the summer, some of the best activities include paddling on Arrow Lakes, mountain biking, or riding on The Pipe Mountain Coaster. In the winter, skiing and sledding are the primary draws, as the resort receives quite a bit of snow without the crowds of Whistler. Revelstoke is one of our favorite towns in Canada and a must-stop on this road trip.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park is a stunning national park that Banff, Yoho, and Kootenay National Park often overlook.

During the summer, this park offers fantastic hiking opportunities, while in the winter, it provides thrilling backcountry skiing opportunities for those experienced in avalanche territory.

The Great Glacier Trail, Asulkan Valley Trail, and Abbott Ridge Trail are among my favorite hikes, with the latter being perfect for those who want to spend a whole day on the trail.

Golden 

As you continue on the Trans Canada highway, you will reach the town of Golden – one of the best mountain towns for accessing Glacier National Park, Yoho National Park, and even Banff.

Nestled between the Purcell and the Rocky Mountains and built around the Columbia and Kicking Horse rivers, Golden offers numerous hiking opportunities in the summer. Some of our favorite summer activities include the hike to Gorman Lake, walk the Golden Skybridge , horseback riding in the Blaeberry, or white water rafting on the Kicking Horse River. Unlike Banff, you can enjoy many things here that you can’t get inside a National Park.

Things like snowmobiling or riding quads are things you can want here. On top of that, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort offers downhill mountain biking in the summer, while in the winter, it becomes a great place to ski.

Unlike Banff and Canmore , Golden has a laid-back mountain town vibe without the overwhelming crowds of tourists and offers a more budget option to those Alberta mountain towns.

Wapta Falls

Wapta Falls, located in Yoho National Park, is a spectacular natural wonder and a must-see waterfall in the Canadian Rockies. Standing at 18 meters, its actual size is genuinely revealed as it spans a significant width of 107 meters.

While the summer months draw many hikers to Wapta Falls, I find it even more mesmerizing during the winter season. The scenery becomes awe-inspiring as the water freezes and transforms into a magnificent ice-covered masterpiece, and the surrounding peaks are draped in snow.

To reach Wapta Falls, drive 34.0 km down the Trans-Canada Hwy. Once parked, you can enjoy a short 5km round-trip hike to see this magnificent sight.

Emerald Lake

When traveling between Vancouver and Banff, visiting Emerald Lake is a must. This stunning body of water is considered one of the most breathtaking lakes in the Canadian Rockies. It holds a special place in our hearts as it’s where we got engaged, though I believe anyone will have their breath taken away the first time they see its Emerald color.

Upon arrival at Emerald Lake, the first thing that captures your attention is its color. As its name suggests, the lake sparkles in a brilliant emerald shade, resulting from the glacial waters refracting light.

The lake is encircled by towering peaks on all sides, making for a truly awe-inspiring sight. While there are many activities to partake in at Emerald Lake, taking a leisurely stroll around its perimeter, paddling on its glassy surface, or savoring a cup of coffee at the Cilantro restaurant while taking in the panoramic views are among the best options.

Located near Emerald Lake near the quaint town of Field, Takakkaw Falls is an easily accessible attraction. It’s less than an hour’s drive from Golden and less than 30 minutes away from Lake Louise, making it one of the top things to see while visiting Yoho National Park.

Towering at the height of 373 meters, Takakkaw Falls is Canada’s second-tallest waterfall. It features two drops, with the main drop standing 254 meters high. One of the unique features of this waterfall is that it’s easily accessible and doesn’t require any hiking, a rare find in the Rockies.

Lake Louise

For more than a century, Lake Louise has been a magnet for tourists in the Canadian Rockies, and chances are, if you are coming to Banff, you already have Lake Louise on your bucket list.

This alpine lake boasts a striking turquoise hue derived from glacier melt and is framed by the imposing Mount Victoria and a hanging glacier.

Finding a place more magnificent and breathtaking than Lake Louise worldwide is challenging. Once you’ve taken in the stunning scenery, you can embark on hiking, climbing, skiing, or canoeing adventures in the vicinity. The image of Lake Louise will stay with you for a lifetime.

There is plenty to do in the Lake Louise area, and you can even jump on the Icefields Parkway from here for another epic road trip. If you want to stay in Lake Louise over Banff , this may be a good option. While Lake Louise doesn’t have as many accommodation options as Banff, there are some incredibly scenic cabins and hotels to enjoy here.

Moraine Lake

Chances are, if you’re in Banff, Moraine Lake is also on your Banff wishlist. The alpine lake boasts a vibrant turquoise blue hue that originates from glacier melt and is backed by the stunning Ten Peaks. This unspoiled natural wonder attracts millions of visitors annually and was once featured on the twenty-dollar bill of Canada.

Getting to Moraine Lake is now simple by booking the Park and Ride Shuttle. Once there, there are plenty of hikes to enjoy. Or you can take a paddle on the bright blue lake . Those with a heftier budget can stay at Moraine Lake Lodge, the only place to stay on Moraine Lake and one of the most iconic cabins in all of Banff.

Hop on the Bow Valley Parkway

Every visitor to Banff National Park should experience driving on the Bow Valley Parkway (also known as the 1A) at least once. Before Trans Canada, this was the original road linking Banff and Lake Louise in the early 1900s.

Today, it is primarily a road for sightseeing and outdoor activities, offering a slower and more scenic alternative to the Trans-Canada. Although it’s slower than the highway, the Bow Valley Parkway affords visitors ample time to step out of their vehicles and admire the stunning views.

Apart from being one of the most scenic drives in Alberta (second only to the Icefields Parkway), the Bow Valley Parkway is also one of the best spots for biking in Banff National Park, and during certain times every summer, the road shuts down to vehicles, allowing cyclists to take over. There are plenty of stops to enjoy on the Bow Valley Parkway, so grab some picnic food at the Lake Louise village and prepare for an incredible drive.

Morant’s Curve

Located just off the Bow Valley Parkway, this famed photography spot presents awe-inspiring vistas of the encompassing mountains. While Mount Fairview dominates the background, numerous other peaks, including Mount St. Piran, Niblock, Whyte, Saddle, Sheol, and Haddo Peak, are also visible.

Photographers frequently schedule their visits at Morant’s Curve to capture the perfect moment of a westbound train passing through the region during the morning light. Though there is no train schedule, trying to time this right is all luck of the draw!

Nonetheless, the stunning scenery is not limited to photography enthusiasts and is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling along the parkway.

Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon , without a doubt, is the most prominent and recognizable stop along the Bow Valley Parkway. For many, it’s a must-visit highlight of their Banff trip. The trail is well-maintained, making it an easy hike for the entire family to enjoy. Moreover, it’s a great place to visit in both winter and summer.

During winter, the falls freeze, creating an enchanting sight. Conversely, early summer is the perfect time to witness the falls in their full glory, with snow melting off the nearby mountains and causing them to roar.

Being a popular destination, Johnston Canyon can get crowded at times. However, facilities are available to cater to visitors, including a gift shop, restaurant, cafe, and Johnston Canyon Cabins & Bungalows for those looking to stay overnight. To learn more about hiking Johnston Canyon, check out the link provided.

Vermilion Lakes

You have almost made it to Banff Avenue, the heart and soul of Downtown Banff. Once you hop off the Bow Valley Parkway, you’ll be close to Vermilion Lakes , one of the best photography spots in Banff.

During the golden hours, photographers flock to the Banff lakes to capture the sublime landscape and sun hitting Mount Rundle just right.

Downtown Banff

You have made it to Downtown Banff. This is where most of the Banff restaurants , accommodations , and attractions are located. Downtown Banff is a fabulous place to base yourself for the remainder of your trip.

There are plenty of things to do in Banff , including taking the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain , hiking Tunnel Mountain , enjoy Bow Falls – oh the list never ends – so we created a whole blog post for you.

Nearby you can also enjoy Two Jack Lake , have a bbq at Cascade Ponds, or take a Lake Minnewanka Scenic Cruise.

Although this article is about stops from Vancouver to Banff, I’m mentioning Calgary as you will likely have to fly out somewhere. Unless you are planning to drive back to Vancouver, flying out of Calgary International Airport is your best option. There is no airport in Banff.

From enjoying the Calgary restaurants , the Calgary Stampede in the summer, or taking in the views at the Calgary Tower, there are plenty of things to do in Calgary.

Hopefully, this helped you determine the best sights to see between Vancouver and Banff.

If you have any other questions leave a comment or see our Canadian Rockies travel guide for more articles about photography spots, lakes, hikes, and everything else.

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The  Banff Blog Facebook Group  is your headquarters for Canadian Rockies travel advice and information, including hike and off-season travel information. You can also meet new adventure buddies.

Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies

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

About Natasha

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

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The ultimate Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary

From the coastal mountains in Vancouver to the glaciers and turquoise lakes in Banff National Park, Western Canada is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. Driving from Vancouver to Banff is one of the most epic road trips in Canada. With so many spectacular sights and stops along the way, it really is a bucket list trip.  

If you’re thinking of doing your own Vancouver to Banff road trip this year, I’ve put together the ultimate travel guide. This detailed 2-day itinerary covers everything you need to plan your own adventure, including the best driving route from Vancouver to Banff and must-see stops along the way.

I’ve also included suggestions on how to extend this 2-day road trip from Vancouver to Banff in case you have more time and are looking for a longer itinerary. You’ll find recommendations on where to stay along the route and a ton of great things to do in each location.

At the end of the itinerary you’ll find a map with the driving route and all of the places in this guide. To save the map, click on the star on the right hand side of the title. This will save the map to “Your Places” in Google Maps.

BOOKING / If this article helps you travel, please consider booking your trip via the links on this page. This means I’ll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you and helps me to keep the blog running. Thank you in advance for your support – Steph

2-Day Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary

Vancouver to Revelstoke

(via Hope and Kamloops)

Revelstoke to Banff

(via Golden, Emerald Lake, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake)

Planning your ultimate Vancouver to Banff road trip

The best time to drive from vancouver to banff.

Although the Canadian Rockies are magical all year round, the best time to do a road trip from Vancouver to Banff is in the summer (June to September). There are a few reasons for this:

• In the summer months, the weather is warmer and most of the roads and hiking trails are open so it’s the best time to explore the parks.
• The lakes don’t usually thaw completely until June so if you want to see the turquoise lakes you should aim to go between July and September when the colours are most vibrant.
• From mid-September to early October, the larches turn golden for a couple of weeks, lighting up the landscapes and lakes they surround.

From October to April, the Rockies are transformed into a striking winter wonderland. It’s a lovely time to visit the Rockies but weather conditions can make driving more dangerous. There are often snowstorms and avalanches which results in last-minute road closures and detours which can add hours to your journey.

I wouldn’t recommend driving from Vancouver to Banff in winter but if you do decide to, make sure you check the road conditions and ensure your car is suitable for winter driving. The Icefields Parkway is open year-round; however, you need to plan ahead as restaurants, accommodation and gas stations are closed from November to April. Snow tires are also mandatory from November to April along the Icefields Parkway.

Renting a car for your Vancouver road trip to Banff

If like me, you don’t have your own car, hiring a car can be a dreaded task. I personally use  Auto Europe  as it’s really easy to use. You can compare all the major companies in a grid format that shows the prices for different car sizes by provider. They also clearly show what is and isn’t included in the price. If you need any help, their 24/7 customer service is very good. Click below to check prices in your home currency.

Depending on your travel plans, you could hire a car in Vancouver and drive to Banff and back. However, if you don’t want to drive both ways you could drop the car back in Calgary, and then fly back to Vancouver.

Do you need a 4×4?

If you’re planning to drive from Vancouver to Banff without any off-road detours, I would suggest saving some money by booking a 2WD instead of a 4×4. The roads are accessible and well maintained so you really don’t need a 4×4 for this trip unless you plan to go down any back country roads. 

Driving to Banff from Vancouver: Practical Information

Please remember that you are visiting National Parks and there are certain precautions you need to take. Many of the places on this Vancouver to Banff drive are in the wild so make sure you are prepared.

• To visit the National Parks, you’ll need to buy a Parks Pass which contributes to the upkeep of the parks. There are ticket booths along the highway and at the park entrances. You don’t need separate passes for different parks; you can visit all the National Parks (Banff, Jasper, Yoho, and Kootenay) with the same pass. A day pass costs $10 CAD per person per day and is valid until 4pm on the day after purchase.
• If you’re planning a few trips around Canada over the next 12 months, it may be more cost effective to buy the annual Discovery Pass. It gives you unlimited admission to over 80 destinations across Canada and is valid for one year. It costs $72.25 for adults or $145.25 for a family or group. You can find more information on the  Parks Canada website . 
• Please follow the  Leave No Trace Principles  during your time in the park. These are guidelines to help you plan, prepare and explore the outdoors more responsibly. They include staying on the designated trails, not touching or removing any natural objects, packing out all your trash, and respecting wildlife.

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary: Day 1

It’s a long drive from Vancouver to Banff so it’s a good idea to split the drive across two days. A lot of people choose to stay in Kamloops which is just under 4 hours’ drive (354 km) from Vancouver. You could also stay at Salmon Arm (461 km) or Revelstoke (565 km).

This 2-day itinerary is based on my last road trip from Vancouver to Banff where we stayed overnight at Revelstoke. By stopping in Revelstoke, you’ll have a shorter drive the next morning. This means you’ll have more time to explore Yoho National Park and stop at the iconic sights.

Vancouver to Hope

161 km – 2 hours

The first section of this Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary will take you through the lovely Fraser Valley. Home to beautiful waterfalls, lakes and hiking trails, it’s a beautiful part of British Columbia.  On this itinerary, you won’t be stopping until Hope as it’s a long drive to Revelstoke. However, if you want to spend some time exploring the area, you could choose to stay overnight in the Fraser Valley and continue to Revelstoke the next day. This is also a good place to stay if you’re leaving Vancouver later in the evening and need to stop sooner than Revelstoke.

Extending your trip: Exploring Fraser Valley

What to do if you have longer in the fraser valley.

There is an abundance of hikes and beautiful lakes in the Fraser Valley. Chilliwack is a great base if you want to explore the area and is a great weekend getaway from Vancouver .

Lindeman Lake

Head to Lindeman Lake for a short but steep hike to a stunning turquoise lake. If you want a more challenging hike, continue on to Greendrop Lake or do the trail to Flora Peak or Goat Ridge. Other notable hikes near Chilliwack include Mount Thom, Mount Cheam and Elk Mountain. 

Bridal Veil Falls

If you’re looking for a gentler hike, Bridal Veil Falls is a short drive away. The trail takes you through the forest to the iconic and beautiful Bridal Veil Falls. The waterfall was named after the way that the water cascades down the rocks, creating a ‘veil-like’ effect. 

Cultus Lake

Cultus Lake is a beautiful spot for fishing, kayaking, paddle-boarding and swimming. There are four campgrounds as well as a large day-use area for picnics and boating. If you want to camp but like a bit of luxury, Cultus Lake is a great option as it has fantastic facilities.

Harrison Hot Springs

Harrison Hot Springs is a small town located on the southern shore of Harrison Lake. It’s home to Harrison Hot Springs Resort where you’ll find ancient mineral springs. You can stay at the resort or just go for the spa and hot mineral pools.

Where to stay in the Fraser Valley

The royal hotel.

Located in downtown Chilliwack, this historic inn dates back to 1908. The rooms are comfortable and fitted with hardwood floors, vintage furniture and claw tubs.

The Vedder River Inn

If you want to base yourself closer to some of the outdoor activities, check out the Vedder River Inn. It’s 2 km to Chilliwack Lake Road which takes you to Chilliwack and Lindeman Lakes, and 5 km from Cultus Lake. The rooms are modern and have all the comforts you need.

HARRISON HOT SPRINGS RESORT & SPA

For a relaxing getaway from Vancouver, consider staying at Harrison Hot Springs Resort. It’s a 28-minute drive from downtown Chilliwack and means you’ll get exclusive entrance to their deluxe hot springs pools.

Hope to Kamloops

203 km – 2 hr 25 mins

The pretty town of Hope is the gateway to British Columbia’s interior. It’s also the start of the Coquihalla Highway which runs through the mountains north to Kamloops. The drive from Hope to Kamloops is beautiful but the highway can be dangerous as it’s very exposed. The temperatures can plummet the higher you climb and the weather can change very quickly, especially in the winter when the roads can become snowy and icy. There is little road lighting along the highway so I recommend driving this section in daylight.

Othello Tunnels

Located in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park , just east of Hope, the Othello Tunnels are one of Canada’s engineering marvels. They were built to complete the Kettle Valley Railway and connect the Kootenay region to the coast. Although the railway is no longer in use, the tunnels are a popular biking and hiking route, especially in the summer months. Unfortunately due to the severe storms and flooding in November 2021, the Othello Tunnels were badly damaged and are currently closed. 

Merritt is located in the beautiful Nicola Valley and is a good place to stop to stretch your legs, get some gas and pick up some snacks on the way to Revelstoke.

Extending your trip: Exploring the Okanagan

If you have an extra day or two, spend some time exploring the Okanagan. This region is home to numerous wineries, beautiful valleys and scenic lakes. Instead of continuing on to Kamloops, once you reach Merritt, take the 97C to Kelowna and Lake Country instead.

What to do in the Okanagan

There are over 40 wineries in the area where you can taste the local wines while enjoying beautiful views. 50 th Parallel Estate, Arrowleaf Cellars, Gray Monk Estate Winery and Summerhill Pyramid Winery are some of my favourites.

Lake Country

The drive from Kelowna to Vernon will take you through the quaint and rural Lake Country. The views of the three lakes (Okanagan, Wood and Kalmalka) and the rolling hills filled with vineyards and orchards are absolutely stunning.

It may be known for its wineries, but Kelowna also has some great hikes which offer incredible views. Knox Mountain Park, Bear Creek Provincial Park and Myra-Bellevue Provincial Park have a network of hiking trails worth exploring.

Where to stay in the Okanagan

Manteo at eldorado resort.

Located next to Rotary Beach Park, Manteo at Eldorado Resort offers beautiful beachfront accommodation. It spans 7 acres and features indoor and outdoor pools, signature restaurants and stunning valley views.

The Cove Lakeside Resort

The Cove Lakeside Resort is situated in West Kelowna just a short drive across the bridge to downtown Kelowna. It has all of the resort facilities (pools, spa, recreational activities), along with warm hospitality and is also pet-friendly.

Sparkling Hill Resort and Spa

If you’re planning a special trip and want a bit of luxury, Sparkling Hill Resort and Spa is the perfect option. It’s a health and wellness resort which overlooks the beautiful Okanagan Lake. The resort is equipped with aromatherapy steam rooms, saunas, infinity pools, hot pools, and even an indoor pool with underwater music! Wondering why it’s called ‘Sparkling Hill’? Swarovski crystals feature throughout the hotel’s design!

Kamloops to Revelstoke

212.5 km – 2 hr 33 mins

Stop in Kamloops for a cup of tea or a coffee and get gas and anything else you need before starting the last stretch of this day 1 itinerary. This section of the drive from Vancouver to Revelstoke is really pretty so you’re in for a treat. You’ll drive along the highway overlooking Little Shuswap Lake and Big Shuswap Lake, past Salmon Arm and Sicamous, through the historic Craigellachie, before arriving at Revelstoke.

Shuswap Lake

Named after the Shuswap Indians of the Great Salishan Family, Shuswap Lake is the ultimate summer destination. You can hike, camp and fish at the lake, but it’s the water sports that make this lake such a hot spot. Windsurfing, paddling and water-skiing are all available at Shuswap Lake due to its sheer size. You can also rent house-boats and take off with a group of friends for a few days.

Craigellachie

This historic spot is where the last spike was driven into the Canadian railway in 1885, finally connecting the east to the pacific west coast. The Last Spike at Craigellachie site is located along the Trans-Canada Highway 1, between Sicamous and Revelstoke. If you love rail history then make sure you stop here to learn more about the history of the railroad.

Overnight in Revelstoke

Revelstoke is nestled between the rugged Monashee and Selkirk mountain ranges, close to Mt. Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks. This mountain town is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding due to its incredible snow conditions. Yet, unlike some of the larger ski towns in BC and Alberta, Revelstoke (or Revy as the locals call it) has retained its small town charm.

Due to time constraints, we only spent the night in Revelstoke to break up the drive. If you arrive early enough, explore the Giant Cedars Trail . Located just outside of Mount Revelstoke National Park, the Giant Cedars trail is a great way to stretch your legs on a Vancouver to Banff road trip. It’s a short (0.32km) and beautiful walk which takes you past giant cedar and Hemlock trees. Due to seasonal snow melt, this trail usually closes from October to May.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at  Quartermaster Eatery  on 1 st  Street. They work with local producers and farmers and make everything from scratch in house. The food is wonderful and the service is warm and personal. It’s a lovely spot to relax before the start of your Canadian Rockies road trip and enjoy some craft cocktails and local beers and wines.

Extending your trip: Exploring Revelstoke

What to do if you have longer in revelstoke.

Depending on how many days you have for your road trip from Vancouver to Banff, you could stay for an extra day or two and explore the local area. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, there are so many amazing things to do in Revelstoke:

Ski or snowboard at Revelstoke Mountain Resort

There’s no doubt about it – Revelstoke is a dream destination for snowboarders and skiers. It’s one of the best ski resorts in Canada so if you’re planning a winter road trip, you’ll want to spend a couple of days at Revelstoke Mountain Resort. 

Get lost in the Enchanted Forest

If you’re planning a Vancouver road trip to Banff with kids then this is a great place to explore! The Enchanted Forest has whimsical cottages, fairy lights and mystical woodland creature. It’s a popular spot with children and adults alike! This magical attraction is all thanks to a retired couple who decided to create a real-life fairy-tale back in the 1950s.

Hike the local trails

Mount Revelstoke National Park is home to so many gorgeous hiking trails. Upper Summit Trail and Broken Bridge Trail are both easy trails which can be done in under an hour. For a more intermediate hike, try Inspiration Woods Loop Trail, or if you want something more challenging, the 7-hour long Jade Lakes Trail offers stunning views.

Where to stay in Revelstoke

Basecamp resorts revelstoke.

Basecamp have some incredible properties in the Canadian Rockies for adventure travellers who want a modern hotel experience. The newest addition is Basecamp Revelstoke – a lovely boutique hotel close to downtown Revelstoke. The hotel has a number of simple and clean apartments and suites, as well as two shared roof top hot tubs with gorgeous mountain views.

The Regent Hotel

The Regent Hotel is an elegant and historic landmark hotel in downtown Revelstoke. It’s one of the oldest family-owned and operated hotels in Canada and dates back to when Revelstoke was a flourishing railway town. Today, it’s got all the modern comforts you need, including a sauna, hot tub and fitness centre. 

Alpine Inn & Suites

If you’re only staying in Revelstoke for one night and want to keep costs down, Alpine Inn & Suites is simple but very comfortable. It has everything you need for the night, including a fridge, microwave, kettle and good Wi-Fi. It’s also in a great location, not too far from the town but close enough to get on the highway quickly the next morning.

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary: Day 2

Wake up early and spend the day at some of the most beautiful lakes in Yoho and Banff National Parks. You’ll start at Emerald Lake before continuing your road trip to Banff, stopping at picture-perfect Lake Louise and the iconic Moraine Lake along the way.

Revelstoke to Golden

148 km – 1 hr 45 mins

The drive from Revelstoke to Golden is absolutely beautiful and was one of my favourite parts of our road trip from Vancouver to Banff. You’ll drive through Glacier National Park and pass towering mountains and glaciers. Make sure you fill up on gas and have food and water before you leave Revelstoke as there aren’t any services until you reach Golden.

Glacier National Park

Not to be confused with America’s Glacier National Park in Montana, this is one of Canada’s first national parks. The park is home to hundreds of beautiful glaciers (hence the name), the most well-known being the Illecillewaet Glacier.

You could easily spend a couple of days hiking and exploring Glacier National Park. If you want to extend your trip and see more of the park, there are a few different campgrounds which are easily accessible from Highway 1. They’re close to many of the popular trailheads such as Hermit Trail, Bear Creek Falls, Abbot Ridge Trail and Perley Rock Trail. Due to the park’s terrain, a lot of these hikes are steep and quite challenging. You can find all of the up to date trail information on All Trails .

Rogers Pass National Historic Site

Rogers Pass is another notable spot along the way to Golden. In 1881, the Canadian Pacific Railway was established to connect eastern and western Canada. It was a difficult task and required extensive engineering to construct a railway through the numerous mountain ranges which were prone to heavy snows and avalanches.

One of the most difficult areas for the engineers was the Selkirks. Major A.B. Rogers was an American railway engineer who managed to find a way through these mountains and by doing so, overcame one of the last obstacles facing the railway.  If you’re interested in the history of the railroad and have time, pop into the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre where you can learn more about the significance of Rogers Pass.

Golden is surrounded by six of Canada’s most beautiful national parks; Yoho, Glacier, Banff, Jasper, Kootenay and Mount Revelstoke. The Golden Skybridge is Golden’s newest attraction. It opened in May 2021 and is already a popular stop for anyone driving from Vancouver to Banff. At 426 feet above the canyon, it’s Canada’s highest suspension bridge and offers breath-taking views of the Rocky and Purcell mountain ranges.

There are actually two bridges – the Lower Skybridge and the Upper Skybridge – as well as a treetop play area for kids, a canyon challenge course, and a thrilling zip line. Golden Skybridge is open from May to October and is a great place to stop on this road trip if you aren’t scared of heights!

Golden to Yoho National Park

64.9 km – 52 mins

Continue along highway 1 to the next stop on your Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary – Yoho National Park. Named after a Cree word meaning “wonder and awe”, Yoho National Park is just that. It’s a dramatic wilderness full of rock walls, waterfalls and towering mountain peaks.

Spend the morning at the park’s most famous spot, Emerald Lake. Set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Burgess and Wapta Mountain, Emerald Lake truly lives up to its name.

Discovered back in 1882 during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, the lake was named after its emerald-coloured water. Emerald Lake is the largest of the 61 lakes in Yoho National Park and is a wonderful place to kayak, canoe, and paddleboard. If you have time, there is an easy 5.2 km walking loop around the lake’s shoreline that offers some gorgeous views.

Emerald Lake’s water is most vibrant in early summer due to the high amount of glacial silt that flows into the lake from the surrounding mountains. The lake is situated high up in the mountains so it tends to freeze in November and doesn’t thaw until early June.

Extending your trip: Exploring Yoho National Park

What to do if you have longer in yoho national park.

There are so many wonderful things to see in Yoho National Park that it’s worth adding an extra day onto your Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary if you can. That way you can stay overnight and explore more of Yoho National Park.

The village of Field is the only community inside of the park. It’s also where you’ll find the  Yoho National Park Visitor Centre . Pop into the Visitor Centre to check on the latest trail conditions and get an overview of the park. It can be tempting to skip this when you don’t have a lot of time, but the staff are very knowledgeable and can help you plan your day based on the weather and trail closures.

Natural Bridge

Natural Bridge is a lovely natural rock formation close to Emerald Lake which sits on the Kicking Horse River. The bridge formed slowly over time as the water carved away the softer stone at the bottom of the waterfall. Today, the water flows through the bottom instead of over the top rocks, creating a ‘bridge’. There is a great viewing platform where you can see the bridge and get some photos.

Wapta Falls

There is no shortage of waterfalls in Yoho National Park! Wapta Falls is the largest waterfall on the Kicking Horse River at 30 metres high and 150 metres wide. You can easily access the waterfall via a short and easy 2.4 km (1.5 mile) forest trail.

Takakkaw Falls

Wapta Falls may be the largest waterfall in Yoho National park but Takakkaw Falls is the tallest. In fact, at 384 metres tall, it’s one of the highest in Canada. The word ‘Takkakaw’ is from the Cree language and means ‘wonderful’ or ‘magnificent’. If you have time to visit the falls, you’ll see why it got its name! To get to the falls, walk along the short and accessible trail from the parking lot and you’ll soon reach the waterfall.

Where to stay in Yoho National Park

Emerald lake lodge.

Located on a private island on Emerald Lake, the lodge is the perfect mix of luxury and nature. There is limited cell phone service so if you’re looking for a place to disconnect then Emerald Lake Lodge is the place to stay.  The rooms are located in cabin style buildings and have their own balconies or patios where you can sit and enjoy a glass of wine in the evening. 

Cathedral Mountain Lodge

If you’re planning a romantic getaway, Cathedral Mountain Lodge is a dreamy place to stay. It’s located in the Kicking Horse River Valley and is surrounded by the Canadian Rocky Mountains so you literally have nature on your doorstep! The cabins have stone fireplaces and a rustic ambiance.  Breakfast is included and you can also enjoy the complimentary canoes.  

Canadian Rockies Inn

The Canadian Rockies Inn is another lovely place to stay. Located in Field, it’s an adults-only property with affordable rooms in a cozy cabin. The property has a king suite, deluxe king room and a 2-bedroom suite. 

Yoho National Park to Lake Louise

37.1 km – 32 minutes

Once you’ve finished exploring Yoho National Park, it’s time to head to Lake Louise. If you’re planning to do all of the ‘day 2’ stops in one day like we did, aim to leave Yoho National Park by 12pm. Although it’s only a short drive to Lake Louise, you want to leave plenty of time to explore.

With a soaring mountain backdrop, brilliant turquoise water, and the impressive Chateau Lake Louise perched on the shore, Lake Louise is an iconic destination. There are so many things to do at Lake Louise. You can simply relax and enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lakeshore, or if you have time, you can explore some of the hiking trails in the area. On this 2-day Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary, squeezing in a hike may be tight but you can walk around the lake and even rent a canoe from  Lake Louise Boathouse . I’d also suggest wandering into Chateau Lake Louise for afternoon tea in the Fairview Restaurant or for a cocktail at Alpine Social.

Extending you trip: Exploring Lake Louise

What to do if you have longer at lake louise.

Lake Louise is a destination in itself so a lot of people like to add on an extra day to their road trip and stay overnight. Here are a few lovely things to do if you have the additional day at Lake Louise:

Fairview Lookout (2 km round trip)

This is a short, uphill hike (100 metres elevation) which takes you to a unique viewpoint looking down over the lake and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Lake Agnes Teahouse (6.8 km round trip)

This trail leads to a quaint, European-style tea house which overlooks the pretty Lake Agnes. From here, you can continue on to Little Beehive and Big Beehive which offer stunning panoramic views of Lake Louise and the Bow Valley.

Plain of Six Glaciers (10.6 km round trip)

This is a more moderate/ difficult trail which takes you up past a lovely tea house to the back of the valley where you’ll get stunning glacier views. Please be aware that the area has a high concentration of bears so it is always best to check with the tourist office before setting off on any trails.

Where to stay in Lake Louise

Fairmont chateau lake louise.

Offering panoramic views of Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier, Chateau Lake Louise is one of the most iconic and luxurious hotels in the Canadian Rockies. It truly is the place to unwind and indulge. Take advantage of the tranquil spa facilities, heated indoor pool and the numerous elegant dining venues. 

Lake Louise Inn

Located in the village of Lake Louise (a 10 minute drive from the lake), this is a great option if you’re staying overnight. Lake Louise Inn has a lovely indoor heated pool, hot tubs and two great on-site restaurants. The rooms are located in cabin-style blocks and have beautiful views of the mountains. You can choose from a range of hotel rooms, suites and condos with full kitchens.

HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre

HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre is a great affordable option if you wish to spend some time in Lake Louise. It’s not your typical hostel either – it has a sauna, library, café and a cozy fireplace to warm up after a busy day outside. The hostel has a mix of dormitories, double rooms and family rooms.

Lake Louise to Moraine Lake

14.3 km – 1 hour

Moraine Lake is the last lake of the day, and is one of my favourite lakes on this Vancouver to Banff road trip. Known for its vivid turquoise blue water, the lake is surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks and was once immortalised on Canadian twenty-dollar bills. 

Located high in the mountains, the lake often remains frozen until late May or June. Moraine Lake Road is generally open from late May/ early June to mid-October depending on the weather conditions. The car park is quite small so there is traffic control measures in place which means you might not always be allowed down the road. If you plan to go for sunrise or sunset leave plenty of time to get down the road.

There is plenty to see and do at Moraine Lake. You can take a stroll along the shoreline, hike one of the beautiful trails, and even go canoeing. Moraine Lake Lodge offers canoe rentals from mid-June to mid-September which allows visitors to paddle around the lake.

Moraine Lake to Banff

71.6 km – 1 hr 42 mins

After watching the sun set at Moraine Lake, get back in the car and drive to Banff. It’s a lovely drive with all the mountain ranges on either side and usually takes just under 2 hours.

Once you arrive in Banff, check into your hotel and head down Banff Avenue for dinner. There are lots of great restaurants to choose from but a few of my favourites are Eddie’s Burger, Park Distillery and Pacini (located in Moose Hotel & Suites).

There is so much to see in Banff but here are a just a few ideas to add to your Banff itinerary:

Explore the local trails

There are lots of lovely walking trails which start from the town. Bow River Trail and Hoodoos Trail are two short and relatively easy trails.

Shop on Banff Avenue

There are some lovely gift shops and local craft stores on Banff Avenue. Even if you don’t want to buy anything, it’s nice just to walk along the avenue and soak in the atmosphere. If you don’t mind getting up early for sunrise, you can get some stunning shots of an empty Banff Avenue with Cascade Mountain in the background.

Visit Vermillion Lakes

This network of expansive lakes is a lovely spot for a picnic. There are lots of benches and docks where you can enjoy the views and maybe even spot some local wildlife.

If you’re looking for more ideas and inspiration for your trip to Banff, I’ve written a detailed guide to Banff . It’s a 4-day itinerary but you can easily modify it depending on how long you plan to stay in Banff.

Where to stay in Banff

Moose hotel & suites.

Moose Hotel & Suites is located on Banff Avenue, just a couple of minutes’ walk from the heart of downtown. The rooms have beautiful views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and they even have rooftop hot pools with a stunning mountain backdrop. It’s the perfect place to relax after a busy day sightseeing.

BANFF CARIBOU LODGE

If you want to stay in the heart of Banff, this mountain lodge is a great choice. Located on Banff Avenue,  Banff Caribou Lodge  is only a 10 minute walk to all the shops and restaurants. It’s a beautiful hotel with a hot pool, steam room and a gym. I’ve stayed here three times over the past 2 years so I think that’s a testament to the hotel and staff!

A GOOD NITE’S REST B&B

A Good Nite’s Rest Bed and Breakfast is a family run Bed & Breakfast located on Marten Street just behind Banff Avenue. It is very homely and managed by a lovely family who go above and beyond to make your stay as memorable as possible. Wifi and breakfast are included and the rooms are very comfortable which we needed after a busy day hiking!

Vancouver to Banff ROAD TRIP LOCATIONS

I’ve mapped out the best driving route from Vancouver to Banff, along with all of the stops mentioned in this itinerary to help you plan your own trip. You can save the map by clicking on the star next to the title so you can use it to plan your own itinerary.

Driving from Vancouver to Banff: Final Thoughts

The drive from Vancouver to Banff truly is spectacular. You’ll pass through some of British Columbia’s most dramatic scenery and there are plenty of scenic stops along the way. Although this is just a 2-day itinerary, you can easily extend your trip and spend some time in the Fraser Valley, Okanagan region and Revelstoke on your way to Banff.

I hope this Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary helps you plan your own adventure. As always if you have any further questions, please let me know in the comments below. If you enjoyed reading this post, make sure you pin it to Pinterest so you can read it again later as there’s a lot of information here!

 If you’re looking for more inspiration for your trip to Vancouver and Banff, check out the following guides:

• The prettiest Instagram spots in Vancouver
• A guide to Banff National Park
• Where to find the best photo spots in Banff National Park

Love from Steph

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3 Days in Jasper: The Ultimate Jasper Itinerary

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Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary

Last Updated on February 1, 2024

The drive from Vancouver to Banff is one of the most beautiful drives in North America . Starting at the Pacific Ocean, you’ll cross multiple mountain ranges and arid wine country. You may see wildlife and there are lots of things to see and do along the way.

I’m a lifelong Seattelite, professional guide and experienced road tripper across Western Canada, Alaska and Washington, so I know how to craft the perfect itinerary to see everything the drive from Vancouver to Banff has to offer.

You can connect this drive to my Whistler to Jasper Itinerary for an even more epic road trip loop.

On your Vancouver to Banff road trip, you will be on the homeland of many indigenous people, including Squamish ,  Musqueam , Tsleil-Waututh , Lil’wat , St’át’imc , Shuswap , Syilx , Sinixt and Ktunaxa First Nations.

• Highlights of a Vancouver to Banff road trip

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

• Is the road open all year?
• 3 day Itinerary
• 5 day Itinerary
• Electric Vehicle Charging
• What to do if you have more time

What is there to see between Vancouver and Banff?

So much! This is an incredibly scenic drive that you could easily spend a week doing and not see everything. There are plenty of places to hike , five national parks and many provincial parks , lakes for swimming , paddling and fishing and plenty of charming towns with delicious food . Add in a visit to British Columbia’s wine country and you pretty much have it all.

A few highlights you don’t want to miss on the drive from Vancouver to Banff that are included in the itineraries below:

• The Sea to Sky Highway
• Sea to Sky Gondola in Squamish
• Whistler Peak 2 Peak Gondola
• British Columbia wine country
• Giant Cedars Trail in Mt Revelstoke National Park
• Glacier National Park of Canada
• Emerald Lake
• Radium Hot Springs and Kootenay National Park (a worthwhile detour!)
• Lake Louise

Related : British Columbia Itinerary for 7 days or 2 weeks ; 7 Kootenay hot springs in 5 days – a dreamy Canadian road trip

You can make the drive from Vancouver to Banff in one long day but why would you when this spectacular drive is an incredible journey and trip all by itself?

There are multiple routes you can take but this article will focus on the shortest route from Vancouver to Banff, which takes you over the Sea to Sky Highway through Whistler to Kamloops and then over to Banff on the Trans Canada Highway . Going east from Vancouver to Abbotsford and then up to Kamloops is slightly longer but generally faster. I recommend going through Whistler because it’s even more scenic with even more things to do!

The route is 917 kilometers (568 miles). Expect at least 11 hours of driving time , not including stops.

This article includes recommended three and five day itineraries for your Vancouver to Banff road trip. The five day one includes a detour to Radium Hot Springs which is absolutely worth the additional 60 miles.

Related : Best things to do for three days in Vancouver

Is the road from Vancouver to Banff open all year?

Yes. You can drive from Vancouver to Banff anytime of year. This itinerary follows major highways that are cleared of snow in the winter.

Summer is the busiest time with lots of summer visitors enjoying the legendary views as well as pursuing lots of outdoor adventures like hiking, rafting and biking.

Winter is also quite busy as your journey takes you to many world famous ski resorts! There is also plenty of opportunity for cross country skiing along the way. If you are doing a winter trip, plan on driving time being much longer and be ready for winter driving conditions. Roads may be closed for a period of time during heavy snowstorms.

Fall is gorgeous in British Columbia with fall colors everywhere. Be aware that fall is a very crowded and popular time to visit Banff National Park, so be ready for summer level crowds.

Spring can be a wonderful time to visit. The weather is extra unpredictable in the spring and mountain areas are likely to still have deep snow (though probably not on the road).

Make sure to arrange your lodging along the way and especially in Banff well in advance no matter what time of year it is.

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary – Three days

Day 1 – vancouver to whistler.

Driving Distance : 120 kilometers (75 miles) – about two hours of driving time

Don’t let the short distance today fool you. There is so much to see today as you start your journey from Vancouver to Banff. Depart from Stanley Park over the Lions Gate Bridge and start your journey on the Sea to Sky Highway heading towards Squamish and Whistler.

Once over the bridge, you’ll be in North Vancouver and passing through the Greater Vancouver area for awhile. You’ll pass Horseshoe Bay and it’s ferry terminal and then you’ll be driving along the edge of incredibly beautiful Howe Sound. Howe Sound is a fjord that extends up to the town of Squamish.

Shortly before arriving in Squamish, make sure to stop at Shannon Falls . If it’s a clear day, go up the Sea to Sky Gondola for epic views of the mountains and water. There are plenty of hiking trails here in Stawamus Chief Provincial Park if you’d like to get out and stretch your legs.

Stop in Squamish for lunch (I love the Howe Sound Brewing) and then head up the steep mountain pass to Whistler. Make sure to stop at Brandywine Falls along the way!

When you arrive in Whistler, check in and have dinner in one of the many wonderful restaurants in Whistler. If there’s enough daylight and it’s a clear day, ride the Peak 2 Peak Gondola (or you can save that for the morning if the weather looks better the next day).

Day 2 – Whistler to Revelstoke

Driving Distance : 510 kilometers (316 miles) – six hours and fifteen minutes of driving time

Today you’ll come down from the mountains onto the dry side of British Columbia. The weather here is hotter in summer and colder in winter and it is much drier than Whistler, Squamish and Vancouver. Plenty of agriculture and vineyards great you along the journey to Revelstoke. Make sure to stop and taste some British Columbia wine and soak up the sun in Kamloops or the area around it.

Caen Road Community Park (between Chase and Salmon Arm) has a great swimming beach if you want to get out of the car for a bit and soak up the sun.

Enjoy dinner and stay overnight in the town of Revelstoke.

Day 3 – Revelstoke to Banff

Driving Distance : 390 kilometers (240 miles) – 3 hours and 30 minutes of driving time

Heading out from Revelstoke, you’ll quickly enter Mt Revelstoke National Park. Stop here at the Giant Cedars Boardwalk to wander through a forest with ancient trees that have been there for hundreds of years.

Further on you’ll enter yet another national park, Glacier National Park of Canada (not to be confused with the American national park in Montana!). Stop here to take the short but steep hike (less than a mile but dropping 100 feet) down to lovely Bear Creek Falls.

Back on the road, continue on the Trans Canada Highway towards Yoho National Park and Banff National Park. Take the 45 minute detour in Field to the internet famous Emerald Lake. This gorgeous lake and it’s picturesque lodge and frequently photographed and all over the internet for good reason! Escape the crowd by walking on the trail around the edge of the lake.

Back on the road, you’ll soon come to even more famous Lake Louise. Lake Louise is extremely crowded and there is a shuttle from the main highway to avoid the traffic and parking mess. Sometimes even the shuttle gets very backed up. If this is the case at the time of your visit, I recommend skipping Lake Louise for now and returning very early in the morning on another day of your Banff trip.

Once you return to the road, you’ll be in Banff within an hour, wrapping up your Vancouver to Banff road trip!

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary – Five days

Driving Distance : 75 miles (about two hours of driving time)

Like the three day itinerary above, you’ll be starting with a short day to Whistler. It might sound short but it will take all day with all the amazing stops you’ll be making!

Day 2 – Whistler to Kamloops

Driving Distance : 300 kilometers (186 miles) – about four hours of driving time

Today you’re leaving Whistler and driving to Kamloops. Make sure to make time for wine tasting today in the Thompson Valley as well as exploring the shops and restaurants of Kamloops.

Day 3 – Kamloops to Golden

Driving Distance : 360 kilometers (225 miles) – just over four hours of driving time

Today you’ll leave the arid wine country and head back into the mountains, passing through two spectacular national parks, Mt Revelstoke National Park and Glacier National Park of Canada (different from the American one in Montana!). You’ll have plenty of time to explore in these national parks as well as spend some time at the beach on Shuswap Lake.

Heading out of Kamloops, if you want to get in some lake time with a great swimming beach, stop at Caen Road Community Park on the shores of Shuswap Lake, between the towns of Chase and Salmon Arm.

When you’ve had enough sun, head back on the road and get ready to visit the hidden gem of Mt Revelstoke National Park! Start on the Meadows in the Sky Parkway , a paved road that takes you from the lowlands in town up to an alpine meadow with amazing views. Trailers and long RVs are not permitted (or possible) on this road, but there’s a shuttle you can take and an area to drop your RV lower down.

Meadows in the Sky Parkway is just 16 miles, but takes you to what feels like the top of the world in the alpine meadows of Balsam Lake. From here you can do a variety of short or longer hikes to explore even bigger views, endless wildflower meadows in mid to late summer and a historic fire lookout.

Once you drive back down to town and continue on the Trans Canada Highway towards Golden and Banff, you’re find the deep forests of Mt Revelstoke National Park. Stop at the Giant Cedars Trail off the highway and stroll the boardwalk deep into a forest of 500 year old cedar trees.

Stop at the Roger’s Pass National Historic Site at Roger’s Pass. In addition to more stunning scenery, this site also commemorates the location where the Canadian Pacific Railway connected Canada from coast to coast by rail for the first time in 1885.

Find dinner and overnight in the delightful town of Golden.

Day 4 – Golden to Radium Hot Springs

Driving Distance : 103 kilometers (64 miles) – just over an hour of driving time

Since this is five day itinerary and you have a little more time, I highly encourage you to add a total of 60 stunning miles to your trip by going to Radium Hot Springs and Kootenay National Park . The town of Radium Hot Springs is just over an hour from Golden, with plenty of places to stay. Very near town is the actual Radium Hot Springs, operated by Parks Canada. This is the best Parks Canada hot springs in my opinion, I’ve never had to wait and it’s so much less crowded than Banff Hot Springs and Miette Hot Springs (in Jasper). It is also the location of one of my absolute favorite campgrounds in Canada (and you can walk to the hot springs from your campsite!).

When you arrive in Radium, you definitely need to go for a soak in the hot springs! I also recommend driving into Kootenay National Park on this day so that you can get to Lake Louise early the next morning. Kootenay is a small but beautiful park! Make sure to go to Marble Canyon which is one of the most gorgeous places I’ve ever been as well as the views from the highway.

Related : Why you should visit Canada’s Kootenay National Park

Day 5 – Radium Hot Springs to Banff (and Lake Louise)

Driving Distance: 188 kilometers (117 miles) – about two and a half hours of driving time (including Lake Louise)

Get up early and grab breakfast and coffee to go at the Big Horn Cafe and head north through Kootenay National Park towards Banff. When you join up with the Trans Canada Highway again, instead of going to the right (directly to Banff) go left towards Lake Louise. I highly recommend parking and taking the shuttle and getting there as early as possible. This will save you a ton of time! It should take you about an hour and a half to get to Lake Louise from Radium Hot Springs.

When you get to Lake Louise, you have a few options. Of course you want to spend some time checking out the view of the famous lake with it’s stunning mountain scenery. Canoes are available for rent if you’d like to get out on the water and there are several hiking trails starting from Lake Louise.

I also recommend checking out Morraine Lake , which is a bit further up the road and every bit, if not more, beautiful. You can take the shuttle between the lakes (check to see if reservations for the shuttles are required).

Once you get back to your car, it should take about 45 minutes of driving time to get to Banff and complete your Vancouver to Banff road trip!

If you aren’t tied of gorgeous waterfalls and mountain scenery yet, stop at Silverton Falls and Johnston Canyon Falls between Lake Louise and Banff.

Electric Vehicle Charging between Vancouver and Banff

Fast charging is plentiful in the greater Vancouver Metro area. Fast charging is also available in Squamish, Whistler, Lillooet, Cache Creek, Kamloops, Chase, Salmon Arm, Sicamous, Malakwa, Revelstoke, Glacier, Golden, Field and Canmore.

Make sure to use Plugshare to determine the latest as new chargers are being built all the time!

Things to do if you have more time

If you have more time, it’s easy to spend many days exploring the city of Vancouver or Banff and Jasper National Parks. Kootenay National Park and Radium Hot Springs are also great places to spend more time.

There are lots more hot springs to visit in Southeastern British Columbia, along with lots of fun outdoors oriented towns like Vernon, Nelson and Trail. You’ll find plenty of lakes for swimming or paddling as well as plenty of hikes and ski areas.

Related: Lussier Hot Springs Soaking Guide

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Road Trip from Vancouver to Banff

A road trip from Vancouver to Banff National Park is the ultimate Canadian adventure! Not only does the route take you past a number of fantastic national parks, but you will have the opportunity to visit charming small towns and vibrant cities too.

The 1,050 km road trip from Vancouver to Banff takes up to 12 hours to drive, without stops. Along the way, you can visit places like Abbotsford, Chilliwack Lake National Park, Kamloops, Glacier National Park, Hope, Revelstoke, and Yoho National Park.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg! So go ahead and read all the way to the end, to find out all the amazing things to see and do, as well as the finer details like driving distances, driving times, best route, and best stop-offs.

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

In terms of distance, Vancouver is around 1050 km from Banff National Park.

All in, it would take you about 12 hours of uninterrupted driving time to complete this journey if you drove the most direct route.

Whilst it is possible for you to leave Vancouver at breakfast time and reach Banff National Park in time for dinner, you would be much wiser to take a good 2-3 days for the journey, at least. With so many beautiful parks, towns, and cities to visit, it would be a crime to miss out.

Driving conditions are best on the suggested route below in the Summer, with a well-maintained straight highway. Winter conditions are extremely variable, with road closures not uncommon.

Best road trip route from Vancouver to Banff

There are several ways you can drive from Vancouver to Banff National Park. The quickest route can take around 9.5 to 10 hours by staying on the Trans-Canada Highway all the way from Vancouver to Banff.

The route we suggest takes you along the Trans-Canada Highway, and then British Columbia Highway-1.

This straightforward route from east to west will showcase the extraordinary natural scenery of places like Chilliwack Lake National Park, Skagit Valley Provincial Park, and the Glacier National Park of Canada.

It will also enable you to visit some cool towns and cities like Coquitlam, Abbotsford, and Kamloops.

Road trip route from Vancouver to Banff

Starting at Vancouver airport, your route takes you onto Grant McConachie Way, merging onto SE Marine Drive, when you turn onto Boundary Road.

Your main route then takes you on to the immense Trans-Canada Highway which travels through Burnaby, Surrey, and Abbotsford on the outskirts of Vancouver, then north for just over 3 hours, turning east at Cache Creek.

You then keep heading east for 1 hour on into Kamloops, from there it's another 4 hours to Golden, and on for another 2 hours to Banff.

Best places to stop between Vancouver and Banff

Whilst driving from Vancouver to Banff National Park there are a host of stop-off options available to you.

These incorporate a range of charming towns and cities, as well as many major tourist attractions and national or provincial parks.

If you are of a mind to break up your drive into a few overnight stays, then why not consider the following?

Take an early break at Abbotsford

Located some 70km from Vancouver, the lovely city of Abbotsford is a delightful place to stay after a day of exploration at the Golden Ears Provincial Park or Chilliwack Lake National Park.

The city itself has a varied mix of attractions to visit including the Abbotsford International Airshow, the Reach Gallery Museum, Castle Fun Park, and the oldest Sikh temple in North America.

One of the best choices of accommodation in the area is the Brookside Inn . This luxurious 5-star, 3-storey Tudor-style hotel, with a stately but welcoming aesthetic, is less than a 10-minute drive to the center of town.

It also lies near the imperious Mt Baker and the stunning vineyards of the Pepin Brook Estates.

A well-earned stop at Kamloops

A further 260km from Abbotsford (and around 500km until Banff), Kamloops is affectionately known as ‘The Tournament Capital of Canada', It holds over 100 events every year.

Many of these take place at world-class facilities like the Tournament Capital Centre, the Tournament Capital Ranch, and Kamloops Bike Ranch.

The area is also a noted wine-producing region too, with several wineries open to visitors.

If you choose to stay in Kamloops, the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Kamlopps is a highly recommended option .

Close to plenty of open spaces, there are lots of parks to stroll to and unwind, and it's also not too far from the slopes too if prefer something more high adrenalin. After a good night sleep the breakfast is a particular hit with visitors, so enjoy the fresh fruit and omelettes ahead of a busy day exploring.

Take in the slopes at Revelstoke

Revelstoke was once famous for ski jumping but is now better known for its downhill sports. It lies just over 200km east of Kamloops, and 330km from Banff.

As well as being home to compelling attractions like the Enchanted Forest, Revelstoke Railway Museum, and the Three Valley Gap Ghost Town, it is also a great option for an overnight stay, after visiting the Glacier National Park.

The Explorers Society hotel in the heart of Revelstoke , with its atmospheric, quirky boutique décor, and fascinating history, can give you a last taste of the urban, before surrounding yourself in the wild freshness of Banff.

The Explorers Society boasts fine eateries, with a hidden gem in the Boiler Room for those who like their whisky, and a rooftop hot tub and guest lounge (surely there can never be enough rooftop swimming areas!).

Alternative overnight stops

The picturesque town of Hope enjoys an attractive location on the banks of the imposing Fraser River.

Surrounded by the soaring peaks of the Cascade Mountains, lovers of the film Rambo might recognize this place as the location of Sylvester Stallone's iconic movie.

As well as being a great base to visit, Chilliwack Lake National Park, Skagit Valley Provincial Park, and the E.C. Manning Provincial Park also provide tours around the filming locations there.

The High Hopes Bed and Breakfast is a solid choice for a comfortable overnight stay should you wish to visit here.

Where to stay in Banff National Park

There are some excellent hotels around the Banff National Park area. One of the best of them is the deluxe 5-star Fairmont Banff Springs .

Originally built in 1888, this resort has been constructed in the style of a Scottish Baronial castle. Designated as a National Historic Site, this impressive property is very close to a host of different ski locations.

As well as hosting a fantastic spa facility that offers a range of exceptional treatments, this resort has an impressive 11 restaurants and 14 shops.

Things to see on a road trip from Vancouver to Banff

On a road trip from Vancouver to Banff National Park, there are several wonderful tourist attractions, engaging towns and cities, and outstanding areas of sheer natural beauty to check out.

Truth be told, it could take you a good two or three months to see them all! If you do not have that length of time at your disposal, then you will need to prioritize where you want to visit. This overview of major highlights along the route will help you do just that.

• Mount Seymor Provincial Park – Terrific park that conveys exquisite views of both Vancouver and the Indian Arm Provincial Park. A popular picnic area, with stunning lakes and ponds, bird watching, and mountain biking.
• Coquitlam - Sparkling city with a rich heritage and cosmopolitan community. Known for its excellent shopping, dining scene, and entertainment. Also boasts a wide range of outdoor activities like biking, hiking, fishing, and trail running.
• Golden Ears Provincial Park – Pretty provincial park in British Columbia (BC), features the lovely Alouette Lake – a noted spot for canoeing, boating, windsurfing, swimming, fishing, horse-riding, and water-skiing.
• Abbotsford – Charming city with an eclectic mix of attractions like Castle Fun Park, Reach Gallery Museum, the Abbotsford International Airshow, and the oldest Sikh temple in North America.
• Hope – Gorgeous town, framed by the Cascade Mountains, situated around the Fraser River. Hometown of Sylvester Stallone's character Rambo! Tours of the filming locations are popular for lovers of the film franchise.
• Chilliwack Lake National Park – Situated in the upper Chilliwack River Valley, around 150km from Vancouver, this park contains scenic alpine ridges and a sizeable lake, providing great opportunities for fishing, kayaking, canoeing, boating, and swimming.
• Skagit Valley Provincial Park – Outstanding provincial park noted for its glaciers that have been around since the ice age. A good spot for camping, horse-riding, river and lake fishing, and over 50km of hiking trails.
• E.C. Manning Provincial Park - Nestled in the center of the Cascade Mountains, this magnificent park boasts a fabulous range of flora and fauna. It also offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities like hiking, cycling, and skiing.
• Coquihalla Summit Recreational Area - Diverse terrain that contains four different biogeoclimatic zones and impressive granite peaks. Beautiful views around the Coquihalla Highway and the Kettle Valley Railway.
• Bonaparte Provincial Park - An 11,800-hectare provincial park in BC, nestled within the Bonaparte Plateau. Contains the volcanic plug of Skoatl Point and beautiful Bare Lake. A popular destination for camping, adventure tourism, and fishing.
• Lac Du Bois Grasslands Protected Area – This spectacular protected area features picturesque rolling grasslands, lush open forests, and many well-established hiking trails.
• Kamloops – Lively city known as ‘The Tournament Capital of Canada', hosting over 100 major events annually. Recognized for being a terrific place for water skiing and boating, the area also has lovely parks, golf courses, and ski resorts.
• Adams Lake Provincial Park - A 56-hectare park that is framed by forests and features pristine beaches. A popular spot for fishing, cycling, water skiing, swimming, windsurfing, and canoeing.
• Mount Revelstoke National Park – notable for its beautiful meadows of pretty wildflowers. This small, yet delightful national park features some excellent hiking and walking trails for you to explore.
• Revelstoke - Home to engrossing attractions like the Revelstoke Railway Museum, the Three Valley Gap Ghost Town, and the intriguing Enchanted Forest.
• Glacier National Park of Canada – A must-visit destination, it contains an awe-inspiring landscape of imposing craggy peaks, deep caves, gorgeous alpine forests, sparkling lakes, and verdant valleys.
• Golden – Charming small town that enjoys a fabulous location surrounded by both the Purcell and Rocky Mountains. It boasts a nerve-jangling sky bridge and lots of fabulous hiking opportunities.
• Yoho National Park - Known for its massive vertical rock walls, towering peaks, and stunning waterfalls, this is a great spot to experience the Rocky Mountains. Very beautiful, notable for camping and hiking.
• Kootenay National Park - Located in south-eastern BC, this picturesque national park boasts raging waterfalls, soaring mountain peaks, flowing rivers, deep canyons, and hot springs. Also has lots of trails, perfect for hiking.

Things to do at Banff National Park

Banff National Park is quite rightly considered to be one of Canada's most iconic highlights.

The oldest national park in the country, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is also recognized as one of the best places to experience the magic of the Canadian Rockies.

Contained within an area of over 6,600 square kilometers, Banff National Park is known for its incredible scenic beauty. It is a place made up of jagged mountains, imposing glaciers, and gorgeous alpine forests.

When at Banff, there are many things to see and do. Some of the best of them include the following:

• Banff Gondola – Take a ride on a modern gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for incredible 360-degree views.
• Lake Minnewanka – Gorgeous 21km long glacial lake on the eastern part of Banff National Park. Features a rather spectral underwater ghost town that can only be seen by scuba divers.
• Bow Falls – Stunning waterfall on the Bow River in Alberta with a powerful and impressive cascade.
• Sunshine Meadows – Located 7500 feet above sea level, this popular hiking and sightseeing destination takes the form of a breath-taking natural garden covered in pretty wildflowers.
• Banff Avenue – Gorgeous town in the national park surrounded by an incredible mountainous landscape. Houses an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants.

Best time to go on a road trip from Vancouver to Banff National Park

You can do a road trip from Vancouver to Banff National Park all year round, but there are easier times to travel than others.

To see all the national or provincial parks that feature along this route at their best, you should consider undertaking the trip between late spring and early fall.

Banff in July and August is at its best if traveling by car. With warm temperatures, truly stunning lakes (after thawing from winter), and plenty of opportunities for biking and walking in the Rockies, it will be busy, but worth it. You'll find pleasant average high temperatures of around 23 degrees Celsius if you travel at this time.

The summer also benefits from festivities like Canada day and Performance in the Park. And for those looking for a more physically active adventure, the Banff Yoga Festival and Banff Marathon both draw a crowd in May and June respectively.

In the winter, particularly when it snows, some sections of road can become treacherous and very difficult to pass without tire chains. There may even be road closures due to avalanche warnings, so always make sure you check traffic guidance before setting out for the day.

Traffic congestion will be at its highest during holidays and the summer months of July and August, but going at a leisurely pace and taking breaks and stopovers as suggested, can make up for this.

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Vancouver To Banff Road Trip: 10 Days Itinerary

Beata Urmos

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The drive from Vancouver to Banff is one of the most epic drives in the world. Big words, I know. But each day on this road trip seemed to be the best one, and each one felt to be even better than the last. And I also have a long article to prove and explain, just keep on reading.

First of all, Vancouver is a great place to start your Western Canada road trip. It’s a beautiful city with a large international airport. Then you continue your way by the ocean and in the mountains, among towering trees, snowy peaks and glacial lakes. Getting from Vancouver to Banff is a long drive, but with wonderful stops along the way.

How many days do you need for a road trip to Banff from Vancouver? Which route to choose and which are the best stops? We created this Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary to answer all of your questions and help put together your most perfect itinerary.

Do you find planning your British Columbia road trip a bit overwhelming?

What if I told you that someone has ALL the planning done: get our compact, easy BC Road Trip Guide! Read it, then go and enjoy.

Overview of the Vancouver to Banff road trip

How much time do you need for the vancouver to banff drive.

The estimated driving time (without unexpected delays due to traffic and weather conditions) is 10.5 – 12 hours from Vancouver to Banff , depending on the exact route you choose. And which is the most scenic route? From Vancouver to Whistler on the Sea to Sky Highway , then to Kamloops, Revelstoke, Golden and finally Banff – see it on a map here .

We recommend having at least 10 days for this road trip , but two weeks (or more!) is even more ideal. If you have some of the stunning day hikes on your bucket list, each one adds another day. Additional hikes and sights are endless, so I guess, your limited time will be the base to work with.

The basic Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary in this post is created for 10 days, but you find optional activities in each section, so you can easily (oh so easily!) make it longer:

• Vancouver (2 nights)
• Whistler (1 night)
• Revelstoke (1 night)
• Glacier National Park (1 night)
• Yoho National Park (1 night)
• Banff (4 nights)

Of course, adjust this Vancouver to Banff itinerary to your preferences. If you like cities, add another night in Vancouver and leave out either Revelstoke or Glacier National Park. If you prefer nature to cities, spend only one night in Vancouver and add another to your stay in Whistler. I honestly think that all of these places are wonderful, and my goal was to create a balanced itinerary so that you see a bit of everything (hah, not even close to EVERYTHING, but you get it… right?).

When to do the Vancouver-Banff road trip?

The drive itself is on highways, mostly the Trans-Canada Highway, which are open year-round. However, there are several things to consider when you choose the best time to visit.

First of all, if you’d like to see the alpine lakes of Banff in their most turquoise glory, you should visit in the summer . These lakes are frozen and covered in snow for long months, and most of them thaw only by mid-June. They freeze over again around November.

Prime summer days (from mid-June until late September) are also the time when all roads and hiking trails are open and accessible. You should be prepared for some snow on higher elevation trails even in July.

Add pleasant, warm days to all of the above, and you’ll understand why summer is so-so crowded in the Canadian Rockies. Accommodation should be booked well in advance, parking lots fill up easily, prices are expensive, roads get congested and even some of the trails feel busy. We visited Banff in early July, and despite the prices and crowds, we’d do it again as a first visit. Also, most parks in this Vancouver to Banff drive itinerary are best (or only accessible) during the summer .

The drive from Vancouver to Banff is possible in winter, but you might not want to do it. You need some winter driving experience, and you should expect delays or suddenly difficult driving conditions due to the unpredictable weather (heavy snow, slippery roads, avalanches). Would you feel confident driving in a snowstorm? Do you have winter tires? (They are required as soon as you leave the city of Vancouver between November and March.) Could you handle unexpected, long delays?

Winter is as much high season in Banff as summer. It offers different activities, but it offers a lot. However, you might want to fly to Calgary and only drive about 1.5 hours from there, or take the 2-day sleeper trains that go directly from Vancouver to Banff.

Where to stay while driving from Vancouver to Banff?

Whether you plan to stay in hotels, lodges or campgrounds, make your reservation well in advance, especially if you’re visiting from June to October. (Yes, even for campgrounds! Except for a few first come first serve campgrounds, you must reserve ahead, and they fill up insanely quickly.) If you want flexibility to filter by budget and location, book at least 6 months prior.

Want help planning your BC road trip?

• Get the BC Road Trip Guide eBook.
• Use the easy-to-follow itineraries.
• Go and enjoy your trip.

Buy it here.

Do you need a car?

For a road trip?! Sure, what a dumb question. Actually, it’s a valid question. Because a popular choice to cover both car rental and accommodation is renting a campervan! It allows you to be closer to nature and take advantage of the great location of many campgrounds. If you travel with your family or a group, it might be the most cost-effective way to travel.

Since we had our own car and tent equipment to explore British Columbia, we used it on our Canadian Rockies road trip, as well. But honestly, it’s chilly at nights even in the summer, and a campervan would have given more protection against the weather than our tent. If you fly to Vancouver (or Calgary), bringing a tent is most probably not a feasible option, anyway.

But if you prefer staying in actual rooms with four walls, definitely rent a car.

DO YOU NEED A CAR FOR YOUR ROAD TRIP? SEARCH, COMPARE AND SAVE:

Discover Cars is one of the world’s largest online car rental platforms with vehicles in 10,000+ locations. Compare the best rates here.

Is there an entrance fee to national parks?

Yes, entry fee is required when visiting the national parks of Canada. Since this basic itinerary contains several of them – Mount Revelstoke, Glacier, Yoho and Banff National Park -, and you can easily add others nearby – like Jasper or Kootenay -, it’s probably worth getting The Discovery Pass. This is the annual pass for Canada’s national parks which allow entry to over 80 sights in the country.

Best stops on a Vancouver to Banff road trip

While you can technically do this drive in one day, where’s the fun in that? The road is just as exciting and wonderful as the destination. Let’s see the best Vancouver to Banff road trip stops.

Having lived in Metro Vancouver, I know we are biased, but really, it’s one of the most beautiful cities in the world. What’s exactly there to impress that much? The views!

Yes, Vancouver is a big city, but it’s connected to the ocean and the mountains, and it’s also a very green city with an incredible number of pedestrian-friendly areas. You’ll be surrounded by nature wherever you go. Just the right way to start this Western Canada road trip, dominated by breathtaking natural beauties.

Best accommodations in Vancouver:

• Luxury: OPUS Vancouver (central location)
• Mid-range: O Canada House Bed & Breakfast
• Budget: Samesun Vancouver (central location)

Our TOP 5 sights in Vancouver

Stanley Park : what, a park as a highlight?! Stanley Park is not simply a park, it impresses with skyline views, beaches, towering trees, gardens and its famous seawall. Find out why it’s such a great place and how to see the best of it here .

Canada Place : again, a convention center and a ferry terminal?! Canada Place is much more. This iconic structure looks like a sailboat and offers pretty views of the North Shore, Stanley Park and the Burrard Inlet. Walk The Canadian Trail on its west promenade, you can learn about Canada and Vancouver’s history in addition to the views.

Gastown : it’s the historical district of Vancouver Downtown, with beautiful Victorian buildings, countless restaurants, bars and art galleries. Don’t miss the Steam Clock which is the oldest of its kind in the whole world. (Also, the Gastown Steam Clock appears on the cover of the Nickelback album Here and Now. They were one of my favorite bands as a teenager.)

Charleson Park & Olympic Village : it’s outside of Downtown Vancouver, but it has the best views of it. The waterfront pathway along False Creek is part of the Seaside Greenway, and walking this path from Charleson Park to the Olympic Village treats you with the best skyline views of the city.

Lynn Canyon Park in North Vancouver : technically not in Vancouver, but it’s part of the metropolitan area, and you simply can’t leave Vancouver without seeing its magnificent rainforests, walking through a suspension bridge, gazing at turquoise waters. Here’s everything you need to know about Lynn Canyon and Lynn Valley.

More things to do in Vancouver

Beaches : not really swimming beaches due to the cold water temperatures and often chilly weather, but they still offer nice city, ocean and sunset views. Our favorites are English Bay Beach, Third Beach in Stanley Park and Kitsilano Beach.

Granville Island : despite being called “island”, technically it’s a peninsula. It’s an exciting, quirky place: an old industrial district turned into a colorful place boasting restaurants, shops, green spaces, a large indoor market and skyline views.

Science World : dive into the wonders of science and nature in this cool museum.

Dr. Sun Yat Sen Chinese Garden : a beautiful, traditionally constructed Chinese Garden.

Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in North Vancouver : if you’d like to walk the 140 meters long suspension bridge over the Capilano River, do the thrilling Cliffwalk and explore the several smaller bridges across the giant trees, this park is for you.

Kayaking in Deep Cove : enjoy a calm fjord surrounded by endless pine forests and towering mountains. Enjoy it from the water! Even if you don’t have a few hours to do a kayak tour, stop in Panorama Park.

Whale-watching tour : Vancouver is along the migration route of several whales which makes it one of the best places in the world for whale-watching. The migration season is from March to October. You have a chance to see orcas, too.

Check out our 3 days itinerary to see the best of Vancouver!

Do you need to rent a car to explore Vancouver?

Not for the downtown, biking is the best way to get around there and along the Seaside Greenway. However, if you visit North Vancouver (Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, Lynn Canyon) or West Vancouver, it’s more convenient by car. You can catch a bus – which takes longer, but you don’t need to deal with parking.

And then you really start your road trip. The best driving route from Vancouver to Banff starts with the Sea to Sky Highway…

Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler

Nestled between ocean and mountains, BC Highway 99 is nicknamed the Sea to Sky Highway, and it’s one of the most epic drives not only in Canada, but all over the world. I know, I shouldn’t use too many superlatives. But our road trips in Canada were all about superlatives. Wild and beautiful nature in this country is hard to beat. If towering cliffs, snow-capped peaks, endless pine forests, foggy bays and ocean sunsets impress you, then the Sea to Sky Highway will impress.

Read our super long and detailed guide about the Sea to sky Highway here !

Only have time for the very best, short stops? Consider these:

Porteau Cove Provincial Park : walk out on the pier for spectacular views of Howe Sound and watch seabirds while walking on the rocky beach. There’s no hiking trail in this park, and the pier is right by the parking lot, so it could be a brief stop.

Shannon Falls Provincial Park : the viewpoint for 335 meters high Shannon Falls is right by the road and accessible by a short walk (you can catch a glimpse of the falls even from the highway).

Sea to Sky Gondola : aptly named, this cable car takes you from the sea to the sky, from the highway up past giant granite cliffs to the Summit Lodge. Any direction you’ll look, you’ll see mountains, snow-capped until late summer. The view over Howe Sound just adds to the magic. The viewing platform is right by the upper station of the cable car, you can also stroll across the Sky Pilot suspension bridge and hike several shorter and longer trails that start there.

Tantalus Lookout : a rewarding and easy stop, but only if you are driving southbound from Whistler to Vancouver, because left turn is forbidden on the northbound route.

Garibaldi Provincial Park : a famous, but not at all a short stop. The hike to Garibaldi Lake takes a full day , just like most of the other hikes in the park. We still highly recommend them if you have an extra day – and can get a day pass . (Our best tip for fetching a free day pass: avoid summer weekends!)

Brandywine Falls Provincial Park : another easily accessible, very picturesque waterfall. Brandywine Falls is not nearly as tall as Shannon Falls (“only” 70 meters), but it’s powerful and it’s a single drop waterfall, backed up by lava columns. You need to walk about 300-400 meters to reach the viewing platform from the parking lot.

Nairn Falls Provincial Park : already past Whistler Village, Nairn Falls is 60 meters high, and the short trail starts just off of the highway.

Best accommodations in Whistler:

• Luxury: The Westin Resort & Spa (top location)
• Mid-range: The Listel Hotel
• Budget: Pangea Pod Hotel (capsule hotel at excellent location)

The next stop on your 10 day road trip from Vancouver to Banff is Kamloops. It’s about a 4-hour drive from Whistler, and you’ll be happy to stretch your legs by then.

Kamloops is not exactly a city where there’s much to see, but there are over a hundred lakes less than an hour drive from it. Shuswap Lake, Kamloops Lake, Paul Lake, Lac le Jeune, Roche Lake, Adams Lake or Heffley Lake are just a few where you can stop and have a swim, or spend half a day chilling out on one of their beaches if you have the time. Famous Okanagan Lake is not too far either. The weather is very hot in this region in the summer, and most of the lakes have quite pleasant temperatures.

We were honestly surprised what a perfect beach region we found here, and it’s a very different experience compared to the Canadian Rockies.

Best accommodations in Kamloops:

• Luxury: Wingate by Wyndham Kamloops
• Mid-range: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Kamloops
• Budget: Grandview Motel

Mount Revelstoke National Park

Mount Revelstoke towers above the city of Revelstoke – which will be on your way, anyway. The other specialty of this lesser-known national park is that you can drive straight up to the peak of Mount Revelstoke. Meadows in the Sky Parkway is a 26 kilometers long paved road that takes you up almost to the summit, offering wildflower views already from the road , and also some viewpoints and trailheads on the way. But the real highlight is where the road ends.

The summit area has a few short and very easy nature trails , like the Upper Summit Trail, Balsam Lake Trail or Heather Lake Trail. This is what we recommend to explore if you only have a few hours in the park.

What if you have a full day to spend in Mount Revelstoke National Park? Take the Miller, Eva & Jade Lakes Trail. This series of three alpine lakes is a full day hike, and you can choose the number of lakes that you’d like to hike to, so the difficulty of the trail is adjustable, but the scenery is guaranteed to be magical.

We hiked to Miller Lake and Eva Lake. They are relatively close to each other, and though they are somewhat similar, we think it’s worth visiting both. Miller Lake has several small islands where you can walk to (if you take your shoes off). Eva Lake also has an island, and it’s possible to walk all around the lake. We find both of them wonderful! We missed Jade Lake, because it would have added quite some elevation gain, and we carried a 20 kg toddler.

Helpful side note: take bug spray to the summit of Mount Revelstoke, and also to the lakes.

Then stock up on everything, including gas, when you leave Revelstoke, as there’s not much service between Revelstoke and Golden. Revelstoke Mountain Resort offers skiing opportunities in winter.

Best accommodations in Revelstoke:

• Luxury: Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort
• Mid-range: Swiss Chalet Motel
• Budget: Alpine Inn & Suites

Glacier National Park of Canada

Alpine scenery, rushing creeks, dramatic peaks and close views of glaciers – that’s what you find in Glacier National Park (the one is British Columbia, not the one in Montana, because both Canada and the USA have national parks with the same names). It’ll impress even if you only drive through it, but we highly recommend stopping for at least a short hike.

Get soaked in the mist of Bear Creek Falls, hike to the toe of Illecillewaet Glacier, gaze at the reflections at Marion Lake. But our very favorite trail? Asulkan Valley , an alpine paradise from the first step to the last!

You can either camp in Glacier National Park, or book something in Revelstoke or Golden , because there’s no accommodation inside the national park.

Easy-moderate trails:

• Bear Creek Falls : 1 km, trailhead is 9 km east of the Rogers Pass Discovery Center
• Meeting of the Waters nature trail : 1.3 km loop, trailhead is at Illecillewaet Campground
• Loop Brook Trail : 1.7 km loop, trailhead is at Loop Brook Viewpoint
• Marion Lake Lookout : 5.5 km return, trailhead is at Illecillewaet Campground
• Great Glacier Trail : 7.9 km return, trailhead is at Illecillewaet Campground

More challenging trails :

• Asulkan Valley Trail : 14 km return, trailhead is at Illecillewaet Campground
• Hermit Trail : 6 km return
• Balu Pass : 11 km return

Best accommodations for Glacier National Park:

• Luxury: Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort (Revelstoke) or Golden Acres Mountain Lodge (Golden)
• Mid-range: Swiss Chalet Motel (Revelstoke) or Holiday Inn Express Golden-Kicking Horse (Golden)
• Budget: Alpine Inn & Suites (Revelstoke)

Yoho National Park

As you reach Yoho National Park you’re already close to the border of Banff (and Alberta). But don’t rush through Yoho too fast, because it has sights that can easily compete with those you’ll find in Banff National Park. It’s already in the mountain paradise called the Canadian Rockies. Here are the most popular places to visit:

Emerald Lake : the largest lake in Yoho National Park, named after its beautiful emerald waters. The backdrop is not bad either: Mount Burgess and Wapta Mountain towering above the lake. No hiking is required, you can drive directly to the shore of Emerald Lake, and there’s an easy, flat loop trail (~5 km) around it. You can also rent canoes.

Takakkaw Falls : with 373 meters (1224 feet), it’s the second tallest waterfall in British Columbia (and in Canada, too, as the tallest waterfalls are all in BC – what a surprise! well, not… :D). Fed by the melting water of Daly Glacier, it’s rushing all summer and can be accessed on a short walk.

Yoho Valley : you can see this stunning valley as you drive to the parking lot at Takakkaw Falls. Then you can hike above it on the Iceline Trail . No matter which angle you choose, Yoho Valley is spectacular!

Natural Bridge : this rock formation can be a short stop on your way to Emerald Lake. The sight of Kicking Horse River cascading under the naturally formed stone bridge and the snow-capped peaks in the background are postcard-perfect.

Wapta Falls : 30 meters high, wide and powerful Wapta Falls is a great family-friendly hike in the park.

Lake O’Hara : the only attraction in this list that we haven’t visited, because it has very limited access due to its delicate ecosystem. You need to make a shuttle reservation to get there, and the availability is limited. (We heard about people who’ve been trying to fetch a shuttle ticket for years, without success. You can try – good luck.) Once you’re there, it’s a paradise, they say, and a starting point for lots of wonderful trails.

Best accommodations for Yoho National Park:

• Luxury: Emerald Lake Lodge (Yoho National Park)
• Mid-range: Canadian Rockies Inn (adults only, located in Field)
• Budget: camping 🙂

Banff National Park

Here we are, in famous Banff. This national park truly deserves all the hype, as it gives access (and easy access!) to the heart of the amazing, unforgettable, epic, phenomenal (should I continue?) Canadian Rockies. If you love mountains, you can’t not love this park! But you need to be prepared and plan your visit carefully to make it the most enjoyable.

All the wonderful places and trails in Banff National Park would be worth its own (and very long) blog post, but I’m giving an overview of the most popular ones here. It’s a good starting point, and you can’t see everything in a few days, anyway.

Best accommodations for Banff National Park:

• Luxury: Fairmont Château Lake Louise (top location)
• Mid-range: Lake Louise Inn
• Budget: Banff Boutique Inn (in the town of Banff)

Lake Louise

It’s among the most iconic natural sights in the Canadian Rockies – and probably in all Canada. Sitting at 1750 meters, it thaws in early June, and the glaciers also start to melt this time, giving Lake Louise those magically turquoise hues.

You can drive directly to the lake – oh, wait, you can’t. Lake Louise has one serious disadvantage: the crowds. It makes it extremely hard to find available parking space near the lake in the summer, so you need to do some planning to make your visit go smoothly. Either arrive very early (before 7 am in July and August) or reserve a shuttle. This shuttle is for both Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, and the service operates in order to solve the parking problems. The Lake Louise Ski Resort is used as a Park & Ride in the summer season, and you take the transfer bus to the two popular lakes from there. But you need to make a reservation for the shuttle in advance.

Once you’ve left your car behind though, Lake Louise is a delight! The lakeshore is beautiful, and you can walk on the easy lakeshore trail, sit on the benches to have a picnic or rent a kayak. Spectacular trails start there, like Lake Agnes Trail, the Big Beehive or the Plain of Six Glaciers – and you can even combine all of them into a full day loop hike.

Lake Moraine

The other star of the park. The view of Lake Moraine surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks is unforgettable and was immortalized on Canada’s twenty-dollar bills. It’s a glacial lake, just like many others in the area, and it impresses visitors with incredibly turquoise colors.

The best viewpoint (the “twenty-dollar view”) is from the top of the Rockpile. It’s a few hundred meters walk, and it includes several series of stairs and offers various viewpoints. The lakeshore trail is fabulous, too , as it runs directly on the shore and treats you with lake views all the way. Also, there are lots of trails of varied length and difficulty that start from Lake Moraine.

Parking is even more difficult than at Lake Louise, because the parking lot is very small and parking on the road shoulder is not allowed.

Peyto Lake is a gem almost by the road along the Icefields Parkway. You can’t easily get to the lakeshore, but the views of the lake from above are the best, anyway. Look for the parking lot on Bow Summit Road, and walk a few hundred meters to the viewing platform on a steadily ascending paved path. Then follow the trail to the second viewpoint. There’s no viewing platform there, but you find a large clearing with stunning views (and much less crowd than at the first one).

Johnston Canyon

Johnston Canyon was our favorite canyon hike in the Canadian Rockies. You can get really close views of the canyon walls and partly walk inside the canyon on catwalks. The two powerful waterfalls, Lower and Upper Falls, are the bonus. The 5.1 km return trail is family-friendly and quite an easy route for the average hiker. Also, it’s accessible year-round.

Bow Lake, located at 1920 meters above sea level, is right by the road as you drive the Icefields Parkway. You can see it from the road, but I definitely recommend pulling over to enjoy the views. It’s one of the best roadside stops!

Bow Glacier in the Wapta Icefield feeds the lake, and Bow Summit towers above it, so you get dramatic, snow-capped peak views and magically turquoise water colors.

Banff (the town)

One of the cutest mountain towns ever, the magic of Banff town is the views it offers. Stuff your face with delicious food on the main street, walk along Bow River, drive to Bow Falls and Surprise Corner viewpoints on the outskirts of the town. And wherever you go, look up and gaze at the mountains.

Two Jack Lake

About 15 minutes drive from the town of Banff and right by the road, Two Jack Lake is a wonderful emerald green lake with views of Mount Rundle as a backdrop. It’s popular for water sports like kayaking, canoeing, SUP or fishing. (It’s also a glacier-fed lake, so it’s too cold for swimming.) The 4.7 km return trail on the lakeshore is surprisingly quiet, very scenic and almost completely flat.

Banff Gondola

This scenic cableway takes you to the summit of Sulphur Mountain where a 360 degree rooftop observation deck awaits , with panoramic views of the town of Banff, Bow River and the surrounding mountains.

Parker Ridge Trail

If you only have time for one hike along the Icefields Parkway, hike the Parker Ridge Trail to Saskatchewan Glacier. This 6.4 km round-trip hike offers breathtaking scenery from the very first step to the last: snowy peaks all around, the Icefields Parkway and Saskatchewan Glacier below. You get 360 degrees peak views once you reach the ridge.

Get the BC Road Trip Guide eBook and enjoy the trip of your lifetime in British Columbia.

Vancouver to Banff drive in 10 days

After giving a taste of what this road trip from Vancouver to Banff could offer, let’s see our 10 days itinerary. Please note that times are indicative, the goal is to help you plan how much time you need for a certain attraction, and it’s an average. You may spend less or more time at any place.

Day 1-2: Vancouver

the view of Vancouver Downtown from the lakeshore of Lost Lagoon

Hold on to renting a car just yet, rent a bike instead to explore Vancouver Downtown and the Seaside Greenway on the first day. Here you find our detailed Vancouver sightseeing itinerary , we recommend choosing Day 1 and Day 3. You can pick your rental car up for Day 3 as it’s easier to get around North Vancouver by car.

And then the trip continues from Vancouver to Banff by car.

Day 3: Sea to Sky Highway

One day is a very short time to explore the Sea to Sky Highway, so focus on the short stops and viewpoints:

• hike to the waterfalls in Cypress Falls Park , West Vancouver (8:30 – 10:00)
• stop for a morning picnic in Whytecliff Park , walk to the coastal viewpoints (10:00 – 11:30)
• drive to Shannon Falls Provincial Park, it’s about 30 minutes (11:30 – 12:00)
• visit Shannon Falls Provincial Park , walk to the two waterfall viewpoints (12:00 – 12:30)
• take the Sea to Sky Gondola , walk the Sky Pilot suspension bridge and the Panorama Trail, then have lunch in the Summit Lodge (12:30 – 16:00)
• stop at Stawamus Chief viewpoint by the highway
• drive to Brandywine Falls Provincial Park, it’s about an hour (16:00 – 17:00)
• walk to the Brandywine Falls viewing platform (17:00 – 17:30)
• drive to Alexander Falls and enjoy the waterfall lookout that’s located right in the parking lot (17:30 – 18:00)
• take a walk at Green Lake in Whistler (18:00 – 19:00)

There’s no picture of Garibaldi Lake in this section. If you only have one day, you won’t have time to see it, because Garibaldi Lake hike takes a full day for most people. See more sights and longer itineraries for the Sea to Sky Highway in this post .

Read our hiking guide to Garibaldi Lake here!

Day 4: Mount Revelstoke National Park

Miller Lake is a longer trail from the summit area

Mount Revelstoke is about 500 km from Whistler Village, so driving will take up half of your day (about 6.5 hours). Here’s what you can do with the rest of your time once you reach Revelstoke:

• drive the Meadows in the Sky Parkway to the summit parking (~40 minutes driving time, more if you stop at the viewpoints)
• hike the Upper Summit Trail (2 km return); once up there, take one of the Summit area nature trails: Koo Koo Sint Trail (1.5 km), First Footsteps Trail (1 km loop) or Heather Lake Trail (400 m)
• walk the Balsam Lake Trail (0.5 km loop)

Day 5: Glacier National Park

It’s about an hour to drive from Revelstoke to Glacier National Park, so you’ll have time for a day hike, and that’s exactly what we recommend .

Asulkan Valley Trail is almost 14 km there and back, and it challenges you with 960+ meters elevation gain. However, it’s very well worth the effort. It’s one of the most wonderful trails not only in Glacier National Park, but in all of British Columbia. You get valley views, with towering peaks and distant waterfalls (actually, melting snow) in the background, a dramatic ridge and close glacier views. It’s not a forest hike with a panorama at the top, you enjoy the views all the way.

Alternatively, if you find Asulkan Valley Trail too much for your abilities, choose several of the shorter trails. Meeting of the Waters nature trail (1.3 km loop) gives insight into the land of rushing mountain rivers and snow-capped peaks. Bear Creek Falls can be reached on a 1 km return trail. Marion Lake Lookout is 5.5 km return. It’s a steep forest trail with panoramic views at the end, and Marion Lake is a lovely stop, too.

Unless you camp in the national park, you should plan an hour drive in the evening, too, because the closest place to stay is Golden. But the good thing is that this leaves you with only about a half an hour drive to Yoho National Park the next day.

Day 6: Yoho National Park

Yoho is small compared to Banff and Jasper National Parks, so you can see all the easily reachable highlights in only one day. It might be a long day, but still, here it goes:

• drive to Wapta Falls trailhead from Golden (9:00-9:30)
• hike to Wapta Falls (4.8 km return; 9:30-11:30)
• drive to Emerald Lake, stop at the Natural Bridge viewpoint on the way (11:30-12:30)
• rent a canoe and walk part of the lakeshore trail around Emerald Lake (12:30-16:00)
• drive to Takakkaw Falls through the scenic Yoho Valley (16:00-16:30)
• walk to Takakkaw Falls (16:30-17:30)
• drive to Banff town at the end of the day

Day 7: Lake Louise, Banff National Park

The attraction for this day is not only Lake Louise, but that’s the base of the adventures.

• morning picnic on the lakeshore at Lake Louise (8:00-9:00)
• full day hike from Lake Louise: Plain of 6 Glaciers & Big Beehive & Lake Agnes Trail loop (this 18 km loop includes the Lakeshore Trail, too)

Alternatively, you can choose to do a shorter hike, like to Lake Agnes and the teahouse, or to the Plain of 6 Glaciers and back. However, this full day loop we recommend is a very scenic route, with jaw-dropping views for the most part and quite some steep uphills and downhills.

If you don’t want to hike at all, walk the flat Lakeshore Trail, then rent a canoe. However, you likely won’t need a full day at Lake Louise in this case. Drive to nearby Two Jack Lake or Lake Minnewanka.

Day 8: Moraine Lake, Banff National Park

The day at Lake Moraine could be similar as the one before: marveling at the wonderful lake, then doing a full day hike.

• view Moraine Lake from the Rockpile viewpoints
• full day hike: Sentinel Pass via Larch Valley Trail (11 km return); or Consolation Lakes (7.6 km return) if you’re looking for a shorter trail
• walk the Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail

The highlight is the lake. Don’t rush, enjoy the otherworldly colors that change throughout the day.

Day 9: Johnston Canyon Hike & Banff town

Your third day in Banff National Park includes shorter hikes and scenic stops:

• hike Johnston Canyon (5.1 km return) and drive the Bow Valley Parkway scenic route (~6 hours)
• on your way back to Banff, drive to the Vermillion Lakes viewpoints (~30 minutes)
• stop for a scenic picnic and a short lakeshore loop walk at Cascade Ponds (~1 hour)
• explore Banff town in the rest of the day: walk in the center, visit Bow Falls Viewpoint and Surprise Corner Viewpoint

Day 10: Icefields Parkway

This day is a scenic drive on world-famous Icefields Parkway that leads through Banff and continues into Jasper National Park. Stop as often as you like, but here are the named viewpoints that are certainly worth a stop:

• Herbert Lake , right by the road (9:00-10:30)
• Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint is the next quick stop, and Bow Lake Viewpoint follows shortly after (10:30-11:30)
• Peyto Lake Viewpoint : reaching the two viewpoints is a 2 km loop hike; enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the viewpoints (11:30-14:00)
• Waterfowl Lake Viewpoint is another roadside stop, no hiking is required (14:00-14:30)
• Mistaya Canyon : 300 meters downhill trail to reach the canyon from the roadside parking (14:30-15:30)
• 30 minutes drive to another quick, but spectacular roadside attraction: the Weeping Wall (15:30-16:00)
• hike the Parker Ridge Trail that starts by the road (6.4 km round trip; 16:00-18:00)

The last day

Whether you do the Banff to Vancouver drive or not at the end of your trip depends on how you travel further. You can give your rental car back in Calgary and fly from there. Since we live in Metro Vancouver and drive our own car, we had a Banff to Vancouver road trip, as well. If this is your case, we recommend saving some of the stops for your drive back.

If you have more time, we recommend continuing to Jasper National Park after visiting Banff. Oh, and there are some stunning detours from the Icefields Parkway. Read on.

More parks to visit in the Canadian Rockies

Jasper national park.

Jasper is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, with even more dramatic mountain landscapes, glaciers and lakes, and groups of grazing elks by the road. You can reach it by driving northward on the Icefields Parkway from Banff, and you find many roadside attractions, scenic viewpoints and short hikes.

Athabasca Falls : 23 meters high, Athabasca Falls is far from being the highest in Canada, but it’s very powerful. Also, very picturesque, located in a canyon and backed up by snowy mountains.

Sunwapta Falls : another easy roadside waterfall attraction is Upper Sunwapta Falls. We recommend hiking to the Lower Falls, too, as they are much less crowded and just as amazing.

Valley of Five Lakes : a 4.5 km loop trail of five incredibly emerald lakes. It starts by the Icefields Parkway.

Maligne Canyon & Maligne Lake : Maligne Lake is one of the detours from the Icefields Parkway. The lake is reachable on a ~40 km drive on Maligne Lake Road. It’s a paved road and very picturesque all the way, with the option to stop at Maligne Canyon on the way.

Maligne Canyon is the deepest one in Jasper, plunging to depths of 48 meters (160 feet). You can marvel at it on a 3.7 km out and back trail that crosses six bridges.

Maligne Lake is 22 km long, and the lakeshore is so steep that there’s no trail directly on the shore. Nevertheless, you find plenty of hiking trails in the area, and you can see the lake the best from the water, by signing up for a boat trip or renting a canoe. Maligne Lake is fed by glaciers (very cold, not a swimming lake!), and its brilliant blue hues are the result of glacial meltwater. Glacial meltwater contains fine rock flour, and these tiny particles are suspended in the water, reflecting the sunlight.

Medicine Lake is a pretty stop on your drive to Maligne Lake. It’s not technically a lake, but helds the overflow glacial water from the Maligne River.

Lake Edith or Lake Annette : just a stone’s throw away from the town of Jasper, you find the two warmest lakes in the park. They are fed by an extensive underground river system, from Medicine Lake. They can warm up to 16-18°C which is a bearable temperature for swimming, especially considering that most lakes in the Rockies warm up to only 3-6°C. Lake Annette has a sandy beach.

Cavell Meadows : this is a hike and one of the most spectacular ones in Jasper! A short trail (~1.5 km return) takes you up to the face of two glaciers, Angel Glacier and Edith Cavell Glacier.

Pyramid Lake : it’s right by the road, at the foot of Pyramid Mountain and is popular for scenic walks. You can walk to a tiny island in the lake through a wooden bridge.

Keep your eyes open for elk , as there are about 1300 of them living in Jasper National Park. You don’t even need to go anywhere to see them. They regularly graze grass by the road and in the campgrounds.

Kootenay National Park

Kootenay National Park is another of the seven national and provincial parks that form the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site and already belongs to British Columbia. (The Continental Divide is the border of BC and Alberta, and also the border of Kootenay and Banff National Parks.) It’s a small one, with most attractions along the road, so you can see the best of Kootenay National Park even in a single day.

Highway 93 runs through the park. Driving it and making frequent stops is the best way to explore the park.

Marble Canyon : it’s an easily reachable, fairy tale attraction. A 1.6 km long trail takes you all around the edge of Marble Canyon and across seven cute bridges. Not all the canyons in the Rockies can be approached this well, the views of the canyon walls are unique, and there’s a waterfall awaiting at the top.

Numa Falls : it’s not a large waterfall, but incredibly powerful and surrounded by rugged rocks. The landscape gives it a boost, as well. Only 300 meters from the parking lot, you find lots of picnic benches near the waterfall, and it’s also the trailhead for the Numa Creek Trail.

Paint Pots : the acidic, cold, mineral-rich pools are nature’s pots of paint. They can be visited on a 4 km return trail, and while it’s lovely and offers the usual stunning mountain backdrop, the Paint Pots are culturally significant in the first place. Ktunaxa people made ochre paint here for generations. It’s an interesting sight, but I’ll keep “jaw-dropping” and “breathtaking” for other attractions.

Stanley Glacier Trail : if you only do one longer hike in the park, let it be this one. It takes you through an area burnt in forest fires that’s currently re-growing, then later on the trail you get an amazing view of the Stanley Glacier and the giant rock walls towering above you. It’s a 10 km return trail.

Kananaskis Country

The foothills of the Canadian Rockies are called “Kananaskis Country”, and it includes several provincial parks, wildland parks and provincial recreation areas. It’s lesser-known than famous Banff and Jasper, and much less crowded, as well. Yet even the foothills of the Rockies offer enormous, snow-capped peaks and numerous crystal clear alpine lakes. You find several campgrounds, two alpine ski areas (Nakiska and the Canmore Nordic Centre) and a network of hiking, cross-country ski and horse trails.

The most easily accessible attractions are along Highway 40, nicknamed “the Kananaskis Trail”. We spent two days in the area, and Upper Kananaskis Lake and the surrounding trails became one of our ever-favorite places in the Rockies.

More tours in Banff National Park

Bea is a travel writer and the co-founder of In Love With BC, a blog about British Columbia travel, hiking and outdoor adventures. She’s been traveling for more than 10 years, and she’s passionate about sharing all she has learned along the way. North America is one of her favorite destinations, and she spent a year living in Vancouver and traveling all over BC with her family.

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Picturesque Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary

Growing up in a small town in the Rockies I often did road trips from Banff to Vancouver. In my opinion, it's one of the best drives in the world. Other than breathtaking sights, the ride offers many unique and fun experiences to enjoy along the way, like having a beach day on the West Coast, visiting BC's wine region, walking through a heritage ghost town and canoeing on a turquoise glacial lake.

Our Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary includes spectacular sights and must-do road trip stops along the way. We recommend spending 8 days along this route to get the most out of each spot.

We also include our top hotel and restaurant picks that add a unique experience to each area.

Best time to drive from Vancouver to Banff

The best time to do the Vancouver to Banff road trip is during the summer months of late June to early September. There are three reasons for this:

• You will avoid driving in the snow when conditions can be dangerous
• It's the warmest time of year with the least rainfall
• The famous glacial lakes in Banff National Park are their famous turquoise colour. If you go any earlier than late June, you may be surprised to see that the lakes are still frozen over!

It's highly recommended not to drive the mountain passes between November - April. You have a high chance of snowstorms, freezing rain, avalanches and detours from road closures. Most routes require winter tires from October - April.

Renting a Car

For this itinerary, pick up your car in Vancouver and drop it off at the Calgary International Airport.

Do you need a 4x4?

If you don't plan on doing any off-road camping then no, you can easily drive the roads with a 2WD car. This route has all paved roads.

National Park Fees

To visit national parks in the Canadian Rockies you will need to purchase a park pass. It costs $10 CAD per person per day , which includes all national parks in the Rocky Mountains , like Yoho, Banff, Mount Revelstoke, Kootenay, Jasper etc. A day pass lasts until 4 PM the next day.

For this itinerary you would need to purchase a park pass starting Day 5. For your four nights in the national parks, it will cost you $40 CAD per person.  You can purchase your pass online in advance.

Ultimate Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary

Days 1-2: vancouver.

Experience the best of the city's food scene and West Coast culture

Vancouver is known as a foodie and nature lover's destination. Your first two days will be about exploring the city's most scenic spots and eating delicious food! From fun things to do in the city to the best places to eat and drink cocktails, we list our favourite spots below.

Fun things to do in Vancouver

• Have a beach day at Third Beach, Kits, Locarno, Jericho or Wreck Beach. The last one is clothing optional.
• Take a 10-km bike ride around Stanley Park, Canada's most famous city park. It's larger than Central Park in NYC!
• Explore the markets, shops and brewery on Granville Island
• Go boutique shopping in the historic neighbourhood of Gastown

See our comprehensive 2-day Vancouver Itinerary , which goes in depth on the best beaches and top things to do on a rainy or sunny day.

Best places to eat in Vancouver (our top 10 picks)

• Miku - upscale sushi restaurant known for its mouthwatering aburi (flame-seared) sushi.
• Kissa Tanto - hip Japanese-Italian restaurant with its sleek interior inspired by a 1960s jazz club.
• Yuwa - intimate restaurant with delicious and authentic Japanese cuisine.
• Say Mercy! - where Italian cuisine meets American BBQ.
• Elisa - a new and stylish steakhouse with a feminine take that is currently one of the most happening spots in Vancouver.
• Ancora - an upscale seafood restaurant with views of False Creek that serves Peruvian-Japanese cuisine.
• Pidgin - Asian-French fusion restaurant serving innovative dishes and cocktails in an intimate space.
• Ask for Luigi - cozy Italian restaurant with delicious handmade pasta.
• Tacofino - Californian-Mexican fare with the best crispy fish taco in the world.
• Kaide - casual spot with fresh and inexpensive sushi.

Best cocktail bars in Vancouver (our top 5 picks)

• Keefer Bar - an apothecary themed bar ranked #2 on the Canada's 50 Best Bars list.
• Key Party - a dimly-lit speakeasy with 1970s vibes.
• Reflections - a rooftop garden terrace located in Hotel Georgia, an elegant hotel with a roaring 20s and contemporary design
• Pidgin - where passionate bartenders serve excellent off-menu cocktails based on your preferences.
• Lobby Bar - a lively lobby floor bar at the Fairmont Pacific Rim serving well-crafted cocktails.

Best places to stay in Vancouver

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Rosewood Hotel Georgia (@rosewoodhotelgeorgia)

Check out our full list of the best areas and places to stay at in our Vancouver guide. Pressed for time? See our top picks below:

• Best luxury hotel: Hotel Georgia . An iconic hotel from the roaring 20s and one of the top luxury hotels in Vancouver.
• Best value hotel: Sonder at Revival . A condo hotel with bright and spacious rooms. Conveniently located in the West End of downtown and walking distance to English Bay and Stanley Park.

Days 3-4: Vancouver → Okanagan

Spend time in BC's wine region and pamper yourself at Sparkling Hill

Even more impressive is the luxury hotel's 40,000 sq. ft. spa, the largest in Canada. There are four steam rooms, three saunas, an igloo room, reading room, tea room, hot tub, indoor pool and an outdoor infinity pool. Each steam room and sauna is unique with different scents or temperatures, such as the mint-scented crystal steam room and rose steam room.

It's worth it to spend a couple nights here and pamper yourself!

The drive from Vancouver to the Okanagan:

• Total distance: 5 hours
• Must-do road trip stop: Mission Hill Winery for lunch and a wine tasting
• Last stop: Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa

Traffic will be heavier for the first 1.5 hours as you leave the Vancouver city core. After you pass the city of Hope you will be taking Highway 5 up to the Coquihalla summit, made famous by the reality show Highway Thru Hell for being one of the worst drives in winter. Don't worry though, it's fine during summertime!  

Driving up the pass of Coquihalla Mountain, an extinct stratovolano, is an exciting drive as you climb up to 1,244m (4,081ft) elevation and then back down into the town of Merritt. Afterwards it's an easy drive into the valley towards Kelowna. As you drive from Kelowna up to Sparkling Hill near Vernon, you will have stunning views of Okanagan Lake and Kalmalka Lake along the way.

Must-do road trip stop: Mission Hill Winery

After your drive through the mountain pass, reward yourself with a seasonally inspired lunch and wine tasting at Mission Hill. The winery is breathtaking with its impressive architecture and lake views. The Terrace Restaurant is open from May - October and has spectacular views of the lake and vineyard. After your stop at Mission Hill you only have one hour left of your drive.

Days 5-6: Okanagan → Lake Louise

See the beauty of the Rocky Mountains and Canada's most famous glacial lakes

You are in for a treat. Highway 1 from Sicamous to Lake Louise is one of the most beautiful drives in Canada. As a kid, it was my favourite part of the route and it still is today. After your scenic drive you will end up in Lake Louise, one of Canada's most picturesque towns with its turquoise glacial lakes.

The drive from the Okanagan to Lake Louise

• Must-do road trip stops: 3 Valley Gap Ghost Town, The Enchanted Forest, Main Street Cafe, Takakkaw Falls.
• Last stop: Lake Louise

Most of your drive you will be surrounded by majestic mountains covered in green trees as you pass through four national parks, Mount Revelstoke National Park, Glacier National Park, Yoho National Park and Banff National Park. The drive feels haunting through the mountain passes as you drive by some of the original railroads built in 1885 that cut through the mountains, connecting Canada from coast to coast.

Must-Do Road Trip Stops

This stretch of your journey offers fun activities to do that you don't want to miss. Start your drive early to ensure you have enough time to explore!

3 Valley Gap Ghost Town

Relive the Pioneer days of the late 1800s and walk through the heritage ghost town at Three Valley Gap. The chateau and ghost town feel like they are located in the middle of nowhere, since they are enclosed by mountains and a lake. A ticket to walk through the ghost town costs $14 CAD per adult. You will see 25 historic buildings like a saloon and barbershop, an auto museum and a railway museum including a super creepy "haunted house" train you can walk through.

The Enchanted Forest

The Enchanted Forest is a fun spot to visit if you're with kids or a kid at heart. The forest is filled with fairytale figurines and is home to the tallest treehouse in BC. It's quite a wacky place and a nice place for a nature walk through the giant trees. Admissions costs $12 CAD per adult, $9 CAD for kids 3-15 years and free for kids under 3.

Main Street Cafe

Stop for brunch in the historic and cute centre of Revelstoke. Main Street Cafe is located in a converted heritage house and is known for its all day breakfast including different types of bennys and skillets.

Takakkaw Falls

Takakkaw Falls is the second highest waterfall in Canada , created by meltwater from a glacier above. It's located in Yoho National Park and a 20 minute drive off of Highway 1. The stunning hike takes you to the base of the falls and is 1.3km roundtrip.

Fun things to do in Lake Louise

Check out our Big Beehive & Lake Agnes Teahouse hiking guide .

Days 7-8: Lake Louise → Banff

Explore the fun mountain town

Banff is a vibrant mountain town with plenty of boutique shops, restaurants and bars. It's also a great hub for exploring the mountainous area.

The drive from Lake Louise to Banff

• Total distance: 45 minutes
• Must-do road trip stops: Moraine Lake
• Last stop: Banff

Must-do road trip stop: Moraine Lake

Today will be the shortest drive of your road trip. Wake up early and start your day at Moraine Lake, a picture perfect lake with the Valley of the Ten Peaks as its backdrop. It's an amazing place to go for a canoe ride, which you can rent right on the lake for $95 CAD per hour. Ensure you go super early since they close off the road until 5PM once the parking lot it fills up .

Fun things to do in Banff

There are a lot of fun things to do in Banff from shopping cute boutiques on Banff Avenue and Bear Street to taking a gondola up Sulphur Mountain to eat at Sky Bistro.

See our comprehensive 4 day Banff & Lake Louise itinerary to see the top things to do and where to eat.

Where to stay in Banff

• Best luxury hotel: Fairmont Banff Springs . A striking hotel built in 1888 that makes you feel like you are staying in a castle. The spa is like a sanctuary with its mineral pools and outdoor hot pool surrounded by the Rockies.
• Best value hotel: Juniper Hotel . A peaceful spot located just outside of town with spectacular views of the mountains from your room.

Calgary International Airport

Calgary is only a 1.5 hour drive from Banff, making it easy to drop off your rental car at the Calgary International Airport before flying home.

Enjoy your road trip!

Start planning your road trip

• 🌃 Accommodation: Booking.com is our go-to for finding places to stay. Sort by top reviewed.
• 🚗 Car rental: see Rentalcars.com to compare car rental prices across different companies.

Planning to do your Vancouver to Banff road trip in July? You should consider stopping in Calgary for a couple days for the rowdy Calgary Stampede that takes place the first half of July.  It's an authentic country-western experience watching the best cowboys and cowgirls compete at the rodeo. See our list of the top things to do at the Calgary Stampede .

For other trip ideas from Vancouver, check out our list of 17 fun weekend getaways from Vancouver .

Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out our list of 30 fun adventure ideas for your next trip .

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The Ultimate Vancouver to Banff Road Trip

Thinking of visiting Canada and want to see a little piece of what this great country offers? Well, a trip from Vancouver , Canada’s metropolitan jewel, through Canada’s Rocky Mountains all the way to Banff , Canada’s premier mountain town, is a great way to see some of it’s rugged beauty while first enjoying British Columbia’s largest city.

First you’ll start your trip in a metropolitan paradise then along the way you’ll see more waterfalls, lakes and hot springs than you can remember, a number of resort style lake towns you won’t soon forget then drive through some of Canada’s highest mountain peaks and finally arrive in one of the most famous mountain resort towns in North America.

A quick note on Canadian Geography and Distances

While being from Canada means we’re often immune to it’s many charms, we do know that a visit to Canada is on many peoples travel bucket list. Covering a huge portion of land between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans and as far north as the North Pole, the terrain and people you’ll meet in Canada are as varied as anyplace you’ll find on Earth.

Starting on the west coast you have gorgeous coastal areas leading into the majestic Rocky Mountains followed by miles of grassy rolling hills that lead to seemingly never ending prairies in the center of Canada. From there you hit the many small lakes and hills of the rock covered Canadian Shield before finally arriving at the Great Lakes themselves which then leads you the Appalachian Uplands and back down to the Atlantic ocean. And that’s only if you travel in a straight line!

Over the years we’ve met numerous travelers who’ve asked if they can land in Toronto and drive to Vancouver in a few days. Well, to be blunt, that’s a 40+ hour straight drive with no stops through 5 provinces and is over 4,200 km or 2600 miles in distance.

If you actually wanted to drive Canada from side to side you’re looking at over 80 hours of driving (7100 km or 4400 miles) and that doesn’t include ferry time to Vancouver Island.

Needless to say, visiting Canada from Coast by vehicle is way more than you’re going to manage in a weekend or even a few weeks if you actually want to experience any of our varied country. It’s also why Canadians tend to measure our distances in hours rather than kilometers and you’ll see that happening right across the country. Finally, if you’re renting a car for your travels, make sure to get car insurance now .

One popular driving route that we do often recommend to visitors is the Vancouver to Banff road trip. It’s a beautiful 10 hour drive through the Rocky Mountains that has plenty of things to offer no matter what time of year you get here. Of course, stopping and checking out the sites isn’t included in that 10 hour time frame so choose when and where to stop as you see fit.

So, sit back and enjoy the ride as we present to you the ultimate Vancouver to Banff road trip with a few possible stops and things to see along the way.

This list is by no means all encompassing but we will include a few notes on things to check out if time or the season permits. Also, while you can easily drive this distance in a day, we recommend taking a few days to get there to stop and enjoy a few of the regions highlights along the way.

Plenty of places to stop along the way

We start our journey in British Colombia’s largest center and Canada’s third largest city (after Toronto and Montreal). Sitting just north of Seattle, Vancouver is a great blend of nature and urban living with mile high skyscrapers overlooking dozens of beautiful parks and even more beautiful coastal waterways. The entire city is nestled in a large valley with ocean on one side and mountains on the other.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Whether you’re jogging along the miles and miles of paved paths on the famous Vancouver Seawall, relaxing on the clean sands at Kitsilano Beach, checking out the restaurants and pubs in cobblestoned Gastown, ordering a microbrew on Granville Island or checking out Canada’s largest urban park (the famed Stanley Park), Vancouver likely has something for you to enjoy.

Some of the other great things to see and do in Vancouver include visiting the Vancouver Aquarium, touring the Granville Island Public Market, viewing the Museum of Anthropology on the sprawling grounds of the University of British Columbia, checking out the Orpheum Theatre for it’s world renowned sympathy orchestra, going high end shopping along Robson Street, riding the Aquabus along False Creek From Hornby to Granville to The Village, climbing up grueling Grouse Mountain, visiting the Capilano Salmon Hatchery and taking the kids to the always impressive Science World.

Vancouver is considered a foodie’s dream come true with dozens of foods and flavor’s calling the city home. With tons of cafes, pubs, bars and restaurants ranging from world class street food to some of North America’s finest dining, Vancouver is also home to Canada’s largest Chinatown.

It’s over a century old and also third in size in North America only to New York’s and San Francisco’s. Vancouver’s Chinatown is overflowing with oriental foods and delicacies as well as many exotic spices and goods.

If you get tired of the urban life, not far from Vancouver’s city center you can head north to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and cross some breathtakingly high ravines or have a treetop walk in a true coastal rainforest. We actually prefer going a bit farther north to Lynn Canyon Park where the prices are cheaper but either place will be worth bringing your cameras if you value suspension bridges, waterfalls, deep ravines, gigantic trees and being completely surrounded in nature.

If you crave nightlife, the Granville Entertainment District is the place to be Vancouver (especially Friday and Saturday nights) with a long strip of nightclubs and enough neon lights to make Vegas proud. Gastown has tons of late night eats with more than a few pubs and micro breweries thrown in for good measure, Yaletown has some higher end bars, Kitsilano has some of the best sportsbars in the city and if you’re looking for alternative lifestyles, then Davie Village is the place to be.

After you’ve had your fill of Vancouver, it’s time to head east down Canada’s only transcontinental highway, Highway 1.

Coquitlam, Surrey and Abbottsford, British Columbia

The Greater Vancouver area encompasses several communities however it’s hard to discern where one area ends and another begins as you leave the city. Soon you’ll be passing through Burnaby , home to the Simon Fraser University and the 3 storied juggernaut, Metrotown, BC’s largest mall. If you have some shopping you want to do, pretty sure you’ll find it at Metrotown.

Next areas on the list you have Port Moody and Coquitlam to your north (home to Mundy Park, a large urban park with great walking trails and 2 small lakes) and New Westminster to your south (famous for trendy pubs and it’s cool Quayside Park where you can watch big boats moving up and down the waterways).

Next you’ll cross the iconic Port Mann Bridge (make sure to have your camera ready) sitting over the mighty Fraser River, British Columbia’s longest river and renowned for it’s excellent fishing. The Fraser River also contains many of BC’s larger hydro electric dams to the north and meets the ocean not too far from here so large boats can be seen on either side of the bridge at all hours of the day.

Soon you will be arriving in Surrey and if you love old electric trams then you can check out the Fraser Valley Heritage Railway where you get to ride an old streetcar and learn about Vancouvers electric train history. If it’s a hot day, White Rock is a very popular beach and if you want to miss the crowds then Crescent Beach is also popular but often less crowded.

The next city on the list is Abbottsford . Well known for it’s excellent blueberries in late summer (make sure to stop off the highway and buy a basket of them for your Vancouver to Banff road trip), it also houses Clayburn Village with a great little old style candy shop and tea house that’s worth a peruse.

Chilliwack, British Columbia

As you leave Abbottsford, you have some decisions to make depending on the time of year and what you value most. Chilliwack is a good sized working city but it’s greatest attractions lie to the south and the east of the city proper. Essentially, if it’s summer time, you can head south for a fun day at Cultus Lake Adventure Park, a huge sprawling waterpark with rides and amusements for the whole family. It’s a guaranteed fun day and we have friends that make the pilgrimage out there every summer with their kids.

If you want to get out and see nature (and have some beautiful pictures), make sure you check out Bridal Veil Falls Waterfall to the east of Chilliwack. The falls are beautiful to see the majority of the year and there’s some great hiking in the area. The falls are a vertical 10 minute hike so make sure you’re up for it but most people have no problem hiking up to see them.

Agassiz and Hope, British Columbia

On the other side of Chilliwack, you’ll be driving into Agassiz . It’s a sleepy little community however now you have a choice of continuing on to Hope or to driving up to Harrison Hot Springs . We love staying in Harrison Hot Springs however it’s not as much as a quick stop as it is a destination in it’s own right. Nestled along the shores of picturesque Harrison Lake lies Harrison Hot Springs Resort (and for which the neighboring town is named for).

With five spring fed hot mineral pools on site, it’s easy to lounge the day (and night away). While the once opulent hotel has seen better days, it’s the only place in town to fully soak in the natural pools. While pool use is included with your stay, they sometimes allow day passes. Please check before you go though just to be sure.

Regardless of whether you stop in Harrison Hot Springs, make sure you fill up your car in Hope. It’s well over an hour until you’ll see the next gas station in Merritt.

From Hope you’ll be getting off the Trans Canada Highway #1 and taking highway #5, the Coquihalla Highway. Not only will it speed up your travels, this newer highway takes you past the unforgettable Othello Tunnels.

The Othello Tunnels were first built back in 1914 as part of the Kettle Valley Railroad and include a series of five large tunnels originally built for railway access but were closed down in the 60’s and are now part of the Trans Canada Trail system (a walkable trail that spans the length of Canada). Constructed through a mountain of native granite and connected by trestles over the 300m high Coquihalla Gorge, the Othello Tunnels aren’t something that should be missed.

As you leave the trestles, enjoy the scenery as you cruise along Canada’s famed Highway Through Hell, as seen on the Discovery Channel. Don’t worry, unless you happen to be driving through a snowstorm you’ll be fine (and even then just slow down and you’ll be fine). In the summer it’s a nice drive as you arrive into Merritt.

Merritt, British Columbia

Merritt is famous for it’s yearly country music festival, the Rockin River Music Fest that it holds towards the end of July every year. Famous country singers from Willie Nelson to Toby Keith to Travis Tritt to Keith Urban to Tim McGraw have graced its stage and hung out in their huge campground.

As you leave Merritt, you’re going to want to leave Highway 5 and head south down Highway 5A towards Kelowna. If you didn’t fill up in Hope then definitely fill up before you leave Merritt since it’s another hour and 20 minutes before you get into Kelowna and see your first gas station. Highway 5A will change into the Okanagan Connector at one point so just stay on Highway 97 towards Kelowna and you’ll be fine.

If time is of the essence and you’re in a rush to get to Banff then feel free to save yourself a half hour on your roadtrip from Vancouver to Banff and keep going along Highway 5 to Kamloops where you’ll be jumping back on Highway 1 heading East for the remainder of your trip. Just note you’ll be missing a lot of beautiful sites and one of British Columbia’s best areas, the Okanagan Valley.

Kelowna, British Columbia

Now we might be biased (since we’re currently based out of Kelowna) however Kelowna and the Okanagan have a ton to offer people. From award winning wineries to beautiful beaches and gorgeous parks, the Okanagan Valley in BC is a great place to be and one of the warmest areas in Canada. The main highlight is the 135 km (84 mi) long Okanagan Lake that ties the valley together (also one of the only lakes in Canada that never freezes).

With over 182 licenced wineries in the valley, if you’re a wine lover you can spend days just hopping from one vineyard to another. If you prefer cider there are dozens of cideries plus tons of microbrewers as well in Kelowna proper.

While of course we can’t list them all, if you only have time for a few wineries then these are some of our favorites with the most ambience (though not necessarily our favorite wines) and the ones we’ll often bring new visitors to see:

West Kelowna:

• Mission Hill Family Estate Winery – Fabulous architecture high on the hill and gorgeously manicured grounds, this place is considered royalty in the valley.
• Quails Gate Winery – As well as having a delicious restaurant, they let you wander around the rows of vines and also offer an affordable tour (when available) to show behind the scenes of a working vineyard.
• Summerhill Pyramid Winery – Known for their white pyramid and nice views across the lake on the opposite side of Mission and Quails Gate they also have a popular restaurant.
• Soma Craft Cidery – Nestled in the woods in a park like setting on the east side of Kelowna, this place has delicious cider, a Farm Inn you can stay at and llamas you can feed.
• BC Tree Fruits Cider Co – This place is part of a fruit packing plant in the industrial section of Kelowna so isn’t pretty like the others on this list however the cider is tasty (and they have a large selection) plus you can walk next door to their market where they have a dozen different local apples you can buy year round to enjoy on your roadtrip.

Lake Country:

• Grey Monk Estate Winery – Scenic drive and tasty port (try it with chocolate!) on the way towards Vernon. It’s worth the drive plus there are 2 other trendy vineyards (Ex Nihilio and ArrowLeaf that are only a few blocks away) that have great food in season (make sure to book first if you’re wanting to eat at either place in the summer though.)

If you love fruit, there are orchards everywhere in the valley with fruit stands everywhere selling everything from 50 different apple varieties (September to October with some available at BC Tree Fruits near year round) to some of the best peaches you’ll find anywhere on earth (mid July to early September). Cherries are in season the beginning of July and there are plenty of u-pick centers if you’ve never had the good fortune of picking them straight off a tree (just try not to eat them all so you have some to take with you on the rest of your roadtrip).

We’ve written several guides on fun things to do in Kelowna so I won’t rewrite it all here but you have the lake and dozens of beaches in the summer and Big White, an internationally acclaimed ski resort just 30 minutes south of Kelowna in the winter that will rival any ski hill on earth. For the rest of the year you have tons of great trails, hikes, pubs, restaurants and activities to make your time here fly by.

As you leave Kelowna east on Highway 97 towards Vernon, make sure to pay attention to the lakes on the right. The high on the hill view of green tinged mineral Kalamalka Lake is always impressive and soon you’ll be in Vernon which also happens to be about the midpoint of your trip from Vancouver to Banff. Congrats for making it this far!

Vernon, British Colombia

Vernon has tons to offer including another well loved ski hill, Silverstar Mountain. If you’re here in the winter and enjoy downhill skiing then it’s another great option after Big White.

Vernon also has multiple beach areas (some on Kalamalka and some on Okanagan Lake) and is also home to Splashdown Vernon, a small but fun outdoor waterpark. Vernon is also full of restaurants and has a popular brewery (OK Brewery) right in town that gives tours.

Vernon is also home to Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery and if you like whisky and gin or fruit infused spirits then definitely swing by and taste their liqueurs and grab a bottle to take home with you.

As you continue out of Vernon on Highway 97A North, you’ll soon pass through Armstrong.

Armstrong, British Columbia

Armstrong , known throughout Canada for their Armstrong Cheese and specifically their squeaky cheese, the company unfortunately no longer offers tours at their factory. If you’re feeling a bit peckish, feel free to stop at The Village Cheese Company for some artisan cheese samples and small tour. They even have their own brand of squeaky cheese if you’ve never had it!

If you love kitschy highway stops, then make sure to stop at the Log Barn 1912 before you reach Enderby. Don’t worry about spotting it, there are a dozen signs pointing to it and if the large dinosaurs, dragons and sculptures sitting outside don’t catch your attention then you really shouldn’t be driving! There’s a shop inside with ice cream, candy and wacky souvenirs as well as a quick walk around the grounds gives you a minute to stretch your legs.

Enderby, British Columbia

Enderby is a cute little town but it’s major claim to fame is the Starlight Drive-In. The 6,000 square foot screen to the south of town is the biggest drive-in movie screen in North America and one of the last in Canada. Operating from June until September, it makes a great night out with the family. If you happen to make it then and decide to catch a movie, Salmon Arm is only 20 minutes away and has more hotels than Enderby does.

If you don’t need a place to sleep, then continue up Highway 97A towards Sicamous. This is a gorgeous drive right along the edge of Mara Lake and while you’ll likely lose 10 minutes rather than going up through Salmon Arm I promise you’ll enjoy it.

Sicamous, British Columbia

As you arrive into Sicamous proper, you’ll need to take a right onto Highway 1 heading east. Don’t worry, you’ll stay on Highway 1 for the rest of your ultimate Vancouver to Banff roadtrip so don’t worry about maps for a while. Just go east wayward traveler.

When we pass through Sicamous we often fill up our gas tank. Soon we’ll be crossing into the Rockies and gas prices go up 10 cents a liter once you hit Revelstoke. Weirdly, Golden is always cheaper than Revelstoke and is another option if you can easily make it another 220 km on your current tank.

If you enjoy dairy farms and ice cream, then D Dutchmen Dairy in Sicamous is a must stop. Fresh homemade ice cream and the ability to walk through a real working dairy farm with cows and a small menagerie of animals out back. They also have a great little fruit and veggie stand (the last real one on your journey) right across the street from June to September. Follow the signs as you turn onto Highway 1 and it will be on your right.

We now continue our road trip towards Revelstoke however first we have 2 interesting stops you might want to check out. First up is Crazy Creek Hot Pools, about 20 minutes east of Sicamous. This little 4 season roadside resort offers hot spring to it’s weary travelers from 9am to 9pm 365 days a year. Best part is that no reservations are required so if you’re up for a hot dip then nothing is stopping you.

5 Minutes further down the road from the hot springs you have the sister attractions of The Enchanted Forest and SkyTrek Adventure Park. Both are open from June to September. The Enchanted Forest is a nature walk through a magical land of castles, miniature houses and a giant treehouse while SkyTrek is an aerial adventure park that will have you climbing, jumping and zip lining from one treetop platform to another.

10 minutes east of the adventure park you’ll find Three Valley Gap where you’ll catch a glimpse of history as this old ghost town harkens back to the 1800’s and pioneer days of a British Columbia western town. The distinct Three Valley Lake Chateau on the banks of the lake also makes a great picture spot before you keep heading east to Revelstoke.

Revelstoke, British Columbia

Revelstoke is an old train town with plenty of ties to the railroad. We always enjoy walking along the raging Columbia River as we pull into town to stretch our legs a bit. If you turn right immediately as you cross the bridge there is a small park next to the road. Leave your car in the parking lot then follow the pathway left under the train bridge.

If you love trains than the Revelstoke train museum shouldn’t be missed and if you’re there when it’s open, a quick 30 minute guided tour of the Revelstoke Hydro Dam makes for an interesting diversion.

Another popular attraction in Revelstoke is Revelstoke Mountain Resort. In the summer they have downhill biking and the Pipe Mountain Coaster, which features 1.4 kilometres of twists and turns as you hurtle down a mountain on a small rollercoaster while travelling at speeds of up to 42 kph. In the winter the park receives 30 to 40 feet of snow and the ski hill features a descent of 1,713 vertical meters (5,620 feet) – the most in North America.

Heading east down Highway 1, we’re now on our way to Golden, BC.

Glacier and Rogers Pass, British Columbia

As we leave Revelstoke, we soon reach Skunk Cabbage Boardwalk Trail and Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail. Both are greatly named and fun little hikes. The one you don’t want to miss though is Giant Cedars Boardwalk. It’s a quick 20 minute walk along a well signed wooden boardwalk through some of the largest cedar trees you’re ever likely to find.

Only a few minutes farther up the highway you’ll find Alberta Canyon and the Canyon Hot Springs Resort. Unlike Crazy Creek, these hot pools are only open from May to September and they also offer cabins and campsites if you’re making the trip pulling a camper of RV.

From Revelstoke to Golden you’re going to be climbing like crazy with the peak just between Glacier and Rogers Pass. This is the highest point of the Trans-Canada highway so be proud. You made it to the top and now it’s just smooth sailing from here on out. If you need a bit of a stretch make sure you check out the Rogers Pass National Historic Site. If it’s the middle of winter, just take a picture of those 20 foot tall snowbanks to each side of your car as you continue east to Golden.

Right before you get to Golden, you’ll reach the Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre . It’s a wolf habitat and interpretive center that’s open to tours year round (no reservations required) and gets you up close and personal with some real North American wolves.

Golden, British Columbia

Golden is a great mountain town that always surprises us with the new things we find to do there. One thing to do is you can check out the Golden SkyBridge. Open from June to October, Canada’s highest suspension bridge traverses 426 feet above an wide canyon and features a zipline, climbing ropes and a canyon swing if you can handle your heights.

If you love water and adrenaline, Golden is Canada’s whitewater rafting capital with several white water rafting companies operating in town. Rafting excursions run along the fast flowing Kicking Horse River all summer long and most rafting companies have offices either in Golden or just east of the city.

If you want to stretch your legs, there is a beautiful covered pedestrian bridge spanning a portion of the river next to the Porcelain Garden park close to downtown. There are several restaurants and pubs nearby as well if you want to grab a bite to eat.

As we leave Golden, we’ll soon find ourselves in a different province and a different time zone so get ready to set your clocks an hour forward!

Before that though, you might want to pull over in a few areas (like Faeder Lake, Finn Creek or Natural Bridge) and take some pictures. From Golden to Lake Louise the rivers and lakes start taking on a turquoise glow due to their high clarity and mineral content that is hard to resist photographing. From little waterfalls here and there to some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery, your head will be whipping side to side never knowing which side of the car you should be looking.

If you’re lucky you’ll spot a giant grizzly or maybe a giant moose. Bighorn sheep and large elk are also often spotted along the highways and if you see a bunch of cars pulled over or clumped together there’s a good chance there’s an animal nearby.

Field, British Columbia

One thing you’ll need as you drive towards Banff and Lake Louise is a National Park Pass. Park passes can be bought ahead of time or from certain vendors. Visitors arriving from Calgary and the west can easily purchase their passes as they pass into the Banff National Park however visitors coming from the east don’t have access to a kiosk. It’s suggested for you to either pre-purchase one online here or at one of the approved locations like the Yoho National Park Visitor Center just off Highway 1 in Field .

The good news is that if you purchase a National Park pass for the year, they are good across the country and this pass also gives you access to breathtaking Takakkaw Falls on the other side of Field. So does a day pass so don’t fret, you just get more time to explore this cool region.

Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park is accessible June to October and can be reached by a 10 minute drive along Yoho Valley Road just off Highway 1 a few minutes past Field. There is a nice park at the end and a short 10 minute walk (1.3km) that will bring you within sight of Takakkaw Falls. With a total height of 373 metres (1,224 ft) and a single drop of 254 metres (833 ft), this glacier fed body of water makes them the second tallest waterfall in Canada.

As we head east and finally cross into Alberta, set your clocks ahead 1 hour…. Now!

Lake Louise, Alberta

Beautiful turquoise lake? Check. Beautiful chateau? Check. World class skiing? Double check.

What Lake Louise lacks in amenities, it makes up for with unrivalled beauty. If you can ignore the hordes of people, walking around the cloudy turquoise waters of Lake Louise can be magical.

Whether you rent a canoe and explore the lake from above the water or decide to grab your walking shoes and head to the right past Chateau Lake Louise along Lakeshore Trail is up to you. Walking to the end of the trail or just stopping on one of the many benches and just enjoying the relative quiet compared to the main area, now is a perfect time to take a picture. If you can get one with one of the red canoes framed just right you might even decide to frame it.

If you happen to be here in the winter, while you won’t be able to see that turquoise glow, you might be lucky enough to strap on some skates and skate over it. Nicely groomed for most of the winter, you can rent skates right by the water or in town. Feel free to check out some other nearby lakes for skating as well.

While Lake Louise gets all the attention, Moirane Lake is equally as pretty and some even think it’s prettier. Regardless, it’s definitely less busy and has some more challenging hikes if you’re so inclined to take them.

Another great hike people enjoy is the hike up to the Lake Agnes Tea House. While it’s not a crazy far, the 7.2km round trip hike does play on you if you’re not accustomed to hiking at this elevation.

Skiing and snow boarding are of course the other half of Lake Louise’s appeal. When the ground starts to freeze and the snows come thick, Lake Louise becomes one the best ski hills in the country. On nice winter days, it’s not uncommon to see a steady line of cars driving in from Calgary and the highway looks more like a living being rather than pavement.

If you happen to be staying in Lake Louise itself, Chateau Lake Louise is a gorgeous option however there are more options in town plus some great fireside pubs to cozy up to anytime of the year.

Finally, even if it’s the middle of summer, take a gondola ride up the ski hill. You’re almost guaranteed to see some wildlife and the view from the top makes the gondola ride so worth it. If it’s winter, grab you board and enjoy!

As we take our final leg east towards Banff, it’s time to congratulate yourself. You’ve just made it through some of the worst passages in the world and lived to tell the tale. Now just imagine those brave men and women who first crossed those mountains and tamed that wilderness to get us where we are now. 2 months travels in under 9 hours of driving. Love it!

If you have a little more time (roughly an extra 20 minutes) and want to see some more gorgeous country with a better chance to get up close with animals and nature, jumping off of Highway 1 in Lake Louise and heading to Banff along Highway 1A (the Bow Valley Parkway) is a solid choice (just ensure the roads are fully open first). Castle Cliff, Silverton Falls, Johnston Canyon, Backswamp and Bow Valley Parkway are all picturesque diversions.

If you’re here to ski or snowboard, Sunshine Mountain is another great ski hill and is often the first hill to open every year. With some epic snowfall, it’s always a favorite with locals.

Banff, Alberta

As we finally pull into Canada’s premier mountain town, the urge to party all night can be strong. Don’t give in, even though the party never stops in Banff, you’ve just had a long day and it’s time for a rest.

In the morning you can check out some of Banff’s best sites and activities. From skiing nearby Mount Norquay in the winter to riding up Sulphur mountain on the Gondola in summer there’s plenty to do. (If you’re up for climbing the hill yourself they give you a free lift down! Budget 2 solid hours.)

You can hike or bike down to beautiful Bow Falls, drive up Tunnel Mountain looking for elk (they’re everywhere up there) or check out the sulfuric delights of the Banff Cave and Basin National Historic Site. There are horseback tours, biking tours, boating tours and even canyon and rappelling tours.

Of course you’ll want to check out the Rocky Mountain Chocolate factory and eat at some top class restaurants while you’re here. Whether you stay at the Banff Fairmont Springs or not, you definitely need to drive up there and walk around the place as well. The hotel exudes old world charm and is definitely worth checking out.

After all that driving, you’ll likely want to soak your troubles away in the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Open year round these, the naturally fed hot springs are a great way to unwind after a few hard days behind the wheel.

With that, we’re at the end. We hope you enjoyed your ultimate Vancouver to Banff roadtrip and hope you get to continue to explore more of Canada during your trip.

Getting back to Calgary and other notes

While there are no commercial airports in Banff, many people choose to land or leave Banff through Calgary since it’s a major city and less than an hour from Banff by car or bus shuttle. If you’re flying in from Toronto, the east coast of Canada or some other country, just reverse this list and start at the bottom and you’ll be fine.

Let us know if we forgot anything that should be on this list. Safe travels and welcome to Canada!

wow! this place is looking so awesome and You shared amazing experience of your road trip. I always love to visit destinations by road. You always inspire me. Thank You

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Your Go-to Guide to Winter Driving in Banff National Park

When visiting Banff National Park in winter you might face difficult driving conditions due to snow and ice. If you’re planning to visit Banff in the coldest months it’s good to know what the driving will be like, what to be aware of and what to do about it. In this article you’ll read everything you need to know.

I must admit that winter driving in Banff National Park wasn’t as daunting as I initially expected, but I did experience several bumps on the road that would’ve made the trip a nightmare if I hadn’t come prepared.

This comprehensive travel guide should help you make your trip to Banff National Park in winter rather smooth sailing! 

How Hard Is Driving in Banff in Winter?

Driving in Banff isn’t all that difficult with a properly winterized vehicle. The roads in Banff are spacious and clear, with little to no road deformities. You’ll have to keep your eyes open for animals and slippery roads, but you should be fine as long as you drive at a comfortable and safe speed.  

Enjoy the scenery, but don’t let yourself be too engrossed by the beautiful Winterland around you while driving. If you find your eyes lingering on a scenic spot, park your car on the side of the road and give yourself a few minutes to appreciate the surrounding area. 

Does Driving in Winter in Banff Require Snow Chains?

Driving in winter in Banff National Park requires snow chains in specific areas. They are required by law when driving the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 North), Banff-Windermere Highway (Highway 93 South), and most other roadways, except for highways 1 and 16. 

If you’re just planning to stay at the townsite, you won’t need to equip your vehicle with snow chains. However, it’s still better safe than sorry. Weather conditions in Banff can be unpredictable at best, so it’s always a good idea to pack up some snow chains for “just in case” scenarios. 

What Are the Main Difficulties When Driving in Banff in Winter? 

Banff’s winter season lasts approximately three months, from November to mid-February. 

Temperatures reach an average low of  -13˚C (7°F) and a high of -5˚C (23°F ), but negative temperatures aren’t uncommon. In fact, it had dropped to the negative thirties not so long ago! As such, visitors must be especially careful when exploring the area. 

Snow turns Banff into a magical wonderland, but looks can be deceiving. In the wintertime, driving in Banff opens up several difficulties that might put off the average tourist. Here are some driving hazards to take note of!

Ice on the Road 

In Banff, ice on the road is one of the most significant driving hazards you’ll face. Since ice isn’t always visible, it can cause total loss of control of your vehicle.

Surface ice and black ice make steering and stopping a difficult endeavor . The latter is more dangerous than the former, as its thin layers make the road look wet instead of icy. 

Unlike surface ice, which can be spotted even miles away, black ice often goes unnoticed until you hit a patch and lose control of the car. 

Unfortunately, black ice is quite common on the roads of Banff . For this reason, you should always drive slowly to decrease the risk of ice-related accidents. If nothing else, it’ll at least give you time to come to a complete stop if you do lose control. 

Poor Visibility

Rain, fog, and snow are expected in Banff, especially during the earlier winter months. Unless you’re willing to stay in a hotel for a couple of weeks until the weather clears out, you’ll inevitably face poor visibility when driving to whatever destination you’re visiting. 

Don’t use your high beams or headlights when driving in poor visibility. High beams will reflect the light back to you, further impairing visibility. 

Instead, drive with lights on low beams or use fog lights if you have them. 

Lack of Cell Reception 

Cell coverage is depressingly limited in Banff National Park. Unless you have a satellite phone, it’ll be difficult to call anyone or use Google Maps while driving. 

Reception can be found in some roadside locations, but this is far and few in between. It works perfectly in the townsite, but it’s spotty on highways 1 and 1A and practically nonexistent north of 93. There’s also no cell coverage along the Icefields Parkway between Jasper and Lake Louise. 

Though it isn’t necessarily a driving difficulty, the lack of cell reception can make the drive distressing if it’s your first time in Banff. You’ll have to rely on physical maps, road signs, satellite communication devices, and the kindness of the locals to get to the destination you’re driving to. 

Limited Gas Stations 

When driving along the more secluded parts of Banff National Park , you’re less likely to find a serviceable gas station. There aren’t a lot of gas stations along Highway 1 and Highway 93. 

There’s one gas station along the Icefields Parkway and several in Lake Louise, but you won’t spot another station for miles. 

Running out of gas in the middle of nowhere is stressful enough, but running out of gas in Banff with little to no reception is a different brand of nightmare. 

To avoid this, always full up before going on a drive around Banff, even if you’re planning to get home early.  

How Safe Are Banff Roads in Winter?

Aside from the occasional snowstorm and slippery highway, driving around Banff in winter is generally safe . 

The Canadian Rockies are properly maintained and regularly cleared of snow . Some roads would be closed due to avalanche hazards, but clearing is quick and efficient. Usually, blockages would be opened up within a few days, if not a few hours. 

But though safe, always take precautionary measures when driving to and around Banff National Park. 

Pay attention to weather reports and regularly tune in to local radio stations and news outlets. You’ll occasionally find animals crossing the road, so drive carefully and pay close attention to your surroundings. 

In Banff, most roads will have some degree of snow and ice coverage . As such, snow tires are mandatory on some mountain roads. It’s recommended to have a tread depth of at least 5/32 inches when driving in Banff. 

If you’re using your own vehicle, take the time to fully winterize your car. Make sure your heater works, inspect your battery, change your oil and antifreeze, and fill up your tires.

Keen on doing a scenic drive in Banff? Check out the post 7 Scenic Drives in Banff to learn more.

Tips for Driving in Banff in Winter

Snowstorms are a regular occurrence in Banff. To ensure your safety and enjoyment, follow these important winter driving tips: 

● Before you go on a drive, check the weather forecast and listen to the local radio. If the weather doesn’t seem too good, you might want to delay the trip for another day or two.

● Visit the  Alberta 511  website for real-time traffic and transit information, road conditions, and accidents. 

● Keep an eye out for black ice, especially when driving near water or on bridges. 

● Regardless of whether or not you’re going on a long drive, keep your gas tank full.  

● Carry a satellite phone with you at all times. 

● Drive slowly and cautiously. Don’t go over 80 km/h (50 mph) on major routes and over 50 km/h (30 mph) on secondary roads. Be extra careful when approaching intersections, bridges, ramps, and shady areas.

● Stay away from other vehicles on the highway. Instead of the usual three-second distance rule, increase it to six to eight.  

● Be especially cautious at dusk and dawn, as this is when animals are most active. Where there’s one animal, others are likely nearby.

● Don’t use all-season tires as they’re not reliable. Use winter tires instead. 

● Before you go on a drive, remove any dirt, snow, and ice from your vehicle’s sensors to ensure assistive-driving features work optimally. 

● Don’t use cruise control, especially in wintry conditions. 

What Winter Driving Traffic Rules Should You Know?

When driving in Banff National Park, be aware of the following  traffic laws : 

● Don’t use your vehicle to tow a person on a motorcycle, bicycle, ski, or toboggan.

● Drive on a single lane, except when road conditions deem it impractical. 

● Follow the speed limits to a T. The maximum speed limit on major roads is 90 km/h (56 mph), whereas, on secondary roads, it’s 60 km/h (37 mph). 

● Snow tires and chains are required by law during specific periods. Between November 1 and March 31, snow chains are mandatory on Highway 93N and Highway 93S. Between October 1 and April 30, they’re required on Highway 93S and Highway 1. 

Should You Expect Road Closures?

During particularly stormy days, road closures are inevitable. 

You’ll find information on road closures, road accidents, traffic reports, construction, and more on the  511 Alberta website . Input your starting point and destination and it’ll give you detailed information about the area’s road status. 

What Roads Get Closed Regularly in Winter?

To prevent untimely accidents, road blockages, and the like, the following areas are subject to seasonal road closures: 

Can You Drive the Icefields Parkway in Winter?

You can drive the Icefields Parkway in winter. It’s open year-round .  However, the Icefields Parkway is sometimes closed for road maintenance due to avalanches and accidents.

You can find the most up-to-date road condition information on 511 Alberta or by calling 511 in Alberta or 1-855-391-9743 in the US. 

How Difficult Is Driving the Icefields Parkway in Winter?

The Icefields Parkway isn’t a challenging drive in winter, but the roads are often covered in thick, compact snow. The rule of thumb here is to expect the unexpected. Even when driving conditions seem perfect, it always pays to be extra cautious.

The Icefields Parkway is unforgiving in the winter; it’s pretty much the last place in the park you want to be stuck in.  

Does a Ski or Snowboard Car Rack Influence Winter Driving?

A ski or snowboard car rack can block access to your truck and reduce clearance when reversing and parking because it partially blocks rear view visibility. It can also cause loud wind noises when driving, which can be distracting at best.  

What Does Car Rental Insurance Cover When Driving in Winter?

Depending on the rental insurance you’ve taken out, it may cover the following when driving in winter: 

● Any damages and injuries you may have caused or acquired while driving the rental 

● Car theft and vandalism

● Non-crash, weather-related damage (fallen trees due to wind and snow, hail, etc.)

● Personal items, if stolen from the rented car

Car rental coverage doesn’t cover other people driving your car unless they’re named on the insurance policy. Likewise, the insurance doesn’t cover scratches, chipped paint, rust, tiny dents, and any other wear and tear caused by regular use. 

Is Car Insurance More Expensive in Winter than in Summer?

Your car winter insurance is approximately 10 to 15 percent more expensive than summer insurance because winter weather can cause many vehicle problems. Think of tree branches fall on the car due to snowstorms or losing control on a slick road. 

If you’re planning to go to Banff National Park for winter, ensure your vehicle before winter hits to save some cash on the insurance policy.

SEE ALSO: 2022-2023 Banff Ski Resorts Comparison

As a former Banffite, I love writing about my favorite part of the world. I keep coming back to enjoy the park's mesmerising beauty. It never fails to impress me. With my extensive knowledge of the area, I aim to provide you with the best information on Banff that you can find on the internet.

3 thoughts on “ Your Go-to Guide to Winter Driving in Banff National Park ”

What a nightmare its been and continues to be so. Coming over in Nov/Dec to Banff would like to hire a car for 3 weeks. Went to the trouble to identify that its mantatory for genuine snow tyres to be fitted. Just want to be safe and comply with law.

Apparently we are on our own.

All hire companies dodging and weaving.

It took 3 weeks for the largest travel agency to extract a response from Thrifty. No we use all weather tyres.

Barriers to prevent us emailing directly to providers in Banff.

This is a unresolved failure with non compliance for decades according to entries by tourist attempting to navigate this simple situation. However if its disinformation and restricting information to ensure that tourist visiting Banff in winter are placed in a position of vunerability only getting responces or rejections to provide at the point and time of presenting for hiring at the counter , its a poor business model which I feel jeopardises safety.

Just want a insured , fully operational ( in every respect ) SUV for clearance. Fitted with mandatory snow tyres. Anymore difficulties and we will just use the buses.

Do you think a mini van rental can get us to the ski hills and back in March? The SUVs are 3x the price.

Good question. I’d say yes. Although a 4WD can come in handy in Banff in the snow.

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Vancouver to Banff | The Perfect Road Trip

Canada has some of the most beautiful scenery in the world and the places to hike , swim , sightsee and photograph are endless. The Rocky Mountains, from Vancouver to Banff are a highly sought after region for the adventurer and especially the photographer. 

The best news? The drive is half the fun. With epic backdrops and winding roads through the mountains (go slow and have the right tires!), the journey itself is a remarkable experience. 

You could spend months exploring everything the west coast of Canada has to offer, but most people don’t have months. For a perfect road trip, stick with Vancouver to Banff.

Luckily, a lot of major hot spots are relatively close to one another If you can get ten days to two weeks off, you’re in for a treat. If you’re planning on going in winter, awesome. That being said, allow at least a few extra days for weather. The roads are very dangerous in inclement weather. 

4 Places to Hit on the Way to Banff

Kelowna: wine country: day 1-2.

Kelowna is known as BC’s Wine country

People always mention Banff as a great destination, and here’s how to get from Vancouver to Banff and enjoy every step along the way. Start by heading south through Vancouver, head east From Whistler: 508 km (5.5 hours)

Setting Kelowna as your first destination is a great idea. It gets a good chunk of the driving done without dragging on too much. Arrive in the early afternoon, enjoy a winery tour (or multiple). Sleep in and grab brunch.  When you get there, your reward is copious amounts of wine. Plan to stay over one night. Check out A View To Remember for an affordable B&B that is walking distance to wineries and boasts gorgeous lake views. 

Pro Tip: If the lifts are open and there is snow on the ground, consider heading up to Big White . Enjoy champagne powder and ski-out right to the popular bar, Sessions for your apres. Big White is about an hour from Kelowna at 62 km, but the true ski bums will appreciate it.

What about a detour? If wine isn’t your thing, you’re a bit more crunched for time or Kelowna is missable for you, head straight to Kamloops. Kamloops is a good one day/night stopover as it breaks up the distance  from Vancouver to Banff as a good halfway mark. You can rug it in a trailer or go high end. If you want to get active, you certainly can.

Get Stoked on Revelstoke: Day 2-3

Distance from Kelowna: 197 km, 2.5 hours

If you leave Kelowna (okay…early-ish after the wine) and get to Revelstoke by early afternoon, you can be on your way the following day (unless you’re skiing, then take a full day). 

Take the road up the mountain called “ Meadow in the Sky Parkway .” Enjoy panoramic views of the town and branch off to multiple shorter or longer hikes. If you’re lucky, the road to the very top will be open and you can venture up to the massive flower garden. 

Again, if you’re making the epic adventure from Vancouver to Banff in the snowy months, spend a day on the lifts. 

Glacier National Park: Spend It Secluded, Day 3

Distance from Revy: 30 minutes, 46km 

One-night camping in Waitabit, for total seclusion and surreal views. Ideal for the minimalist.  Head to Glacier National Park refreshed from Revy and ready to lose wi-fi. Bring toilet paper! There are numerous hikes and lots of wildlife, including bears, elk, moose and even wolves. 

Yoho National Park Day 3-4

Distance from Glacier NP: 1 hour, 80 km.

Waterfalls, fossil beds, hikes and camping. Much like all the National Parks, Yoho is a spectacular stop. Emerald Lake , aptly named for its spectacular colour takes the cake in Yoho, so if you don’t have time for the multiple hikes , make sure you see this one for yourself. 

Detour: Radium Hot Springs 1.5 hours from Yoho National Park

If time is not of the essence, the Radium Hot Springs are worth making a quick detour. Situated on the edge of Kootenay National Park, the quaint village of 776 people is sure to charm. Known for bringing peace, it’s the perfect mid-trip relaxing stop.

Banff: The Destination Day 4-7

This is the picture perfect destination you’ve been waiting for.

Distance from Yoho National Park: 45 minutes, 66 km

Distance from Radium Hot Springs: 1 hour 40 minutes, 135 km 

The lakes in Banff are some of the most stunning in the world. With mountainous backdrops and piercing turquoise lakes, you’ll feel like you’re looking at a painting. There is a reason everyone flocks to these destinations, cameras in hand. 

If you know anyone who has been to Banff, you’ve likely heard them talk about (or seen on their Instagram) Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, undoubtedly the two most famous, and for good reason. Puzzlingly enough, the lakes are actually a short drive from the city centre of Banff, where you’d likely stay. It’s a lazy, cute town with lots to do and will very busy in the summer. 

• Lake Moraine One hour from Banff, it speaks for itself with its beauty. Just go. If you’re not a hiker or need a break, take it at Moraine. Save the hike for Lake Louise tomorrow!

Pro Tip: Everyone wants to see the lakes, but not everyone is willing to get up at 5 am. If you want the best lunch spot or the selfie without any photo-bombers, go early. The serenity and the sunrise will be well worth it. 

• Lake Louise Another classic Banff icon, there are tons of hikes to do surrounding Lake Louise. Only 40 minutes from the city centre, there’s no excuse to miss the sunrise! Mirror Lake hike will take you to a stunning lookout. If you’re feeling ambitious, take the 9km uphill trek up to Big Beehive.

Icefield Parkway to Jasper: Three Must-Dos, Day 7-10

Okay, so now you’re an expert on how to get from Vancouver to Banff and what to do along the way, but the adventure isn’t over! The Icefield Parkway is the stretch between Banff and Jasper, about 230 km winding through ancient glaciers and the most beautiful backdrops you could ask for. If you have the time, you can stop off at the 10,000-year-old Athabasca Glacie r to explore. 

• Peyto Lake Just over an hour from Banff (100 km), Peyto Lake can be a quick stop but is very worth making. A short walk leads you to the viewpoint of the incredible lake.
• Jasper: Maligne Canyon Walk Jasper is a laid back town with a chilled out vibe. The Maligne Canyon walk is a unique and beautiful experience. As with all the best places, it gets busy. Go early or go late to avoid crowds.

Pro Tip: Jasper is one of the best places in Canada to see the Northern Lights because of its dark sky preserves. The best time to see them is October-May. Jasper National Park in October is a great option. Grab a coffee, blanket and camera and cross your fingers mother nature will put on a show!

• Mount Robson Provincial Park  For the avid hiker, nature lover or anyone looking for a challenge, Mount Robson Provincial Park is perfect for you. Only 20 minutes from Jasper, the park boasts diverse ecosystems, cascading waterfalls, glacier-fed pools and hikes of varying difficulties as well as campgrounds to rest your weary legs.

Heading Home: Stops to Make, Day 10-13

One more worthy stop on your way home – Wells Gray Provincial Park

You can make the trip back to Whistler in about eight hours if you’re pressed for time, but if you have a few extra days, the magic doesn’t have to be over. Why not s tay in Clearwater and visit Wells Gray Provincial Park?

Clearwater is the town that houses Wells Gray Provincial Park and is also home to many waterfalls and hikes. It is about five and half hours from Whistler (423 km), so stopping here makes for a relatively quick drive home. 

Pro-tip: Where to condense: The above itinerary is an (awesome) suggested timeline for Vancouver to Banff and beyond, but is just that: a suggestion. Your trip can be amazing even if you don’t have a ton of time. If you’re looking to cut a few days, get up early and get going! You could do Banff for two days instead of three. Cut out a hike or two and do Jasper in two. You can still fit everything in, just be ready to be go-go-go!

Grab your map (iPhone), best company, camera and charger and lots of snacks and get ready for the best road trip ever! Gas can get expensive, so the more friends that can come along the better for splitting costs. Have everyone decide on their top excursion they want to do and make sure you have time to incorporate them all!

Road trips do not always go as planned, so remember to bring extra snacks and water, have seasonally appropriate tires, and tell a friend your general route. It’s also not a bad idea to have BCAA (British Columbia Roadside Assistance) in case you have any car troubles. Most importantly though? A good playlist. 

• Travel Guides

Whistler is a hiker’s paradise. Available throughout every season, you can hike trails of varying difficulty while at your own pace.

Vancouver To Banff: A Fantastic Road Trip

If you want to see majestic mountains, raging rivers, and forests as far as the eye can see, a Vancouver to Banff road trip is right up your alley. Also, if you want to see wildlife such as elk, big-horn sheep, mountain goats, and bears, the Rockies is one of the best places in North America for all of this.

There are three routes to drive, and depending on your time, you can complete a circular journey encompassing two routes. Having lived on the West Coast of Canada, I am used to seeing the coastal mountains every day.

I have always enjoyed our local mountains and thought they were impressive. However, at an average of 5,000 feet (1,524 meters), they pale compared to the Canadian Rockies. The Rockies are double the elevation, with several peaks over 10,000 feet (3,048 meters).

Due to Covid and the restrictions on travel, Karen and I decided to do a “Canadiana Vacation.” I am a ‘ born and raised Canadian,’  having lived in Vancouver for 25 years. However, I’m somewhat embarrassed to say that I’ve never been to beautiful Banff and Jasper in the Canadian Rockies.

Karen has been there several times, so she was my Tour Guide for our Vancouver to Banff road trip.

Why Drive Instead of Fly?

To get from Vancouver to Banff, you can take a road trip, fly, or take the train. However, in my view, driving is the best way to get there for several reasons.

1. Not A Long Drive .

If you were to drive from Vancouver to Banff non-stop, it would take you about 9 hours. However, I recommend making a stop along the way to break up the drive and provide a chance to enjoy some of the other sites along the way.

We decided to stop in Golden, BC, which was an easy 7-hour drive from our home. Other excellent British Columbia stops could be Revelstoke, Kamloops, or Kelowna, depending on your route.

2. The Beauty Is In The Journey .

When we drove, I appreciated seeing the changing climates (coastal, desert, alpine, etc.) through British Columbia and into Alberta. Obviously, flying is much faster, but you genuinely miss the ‘West Coast experience’ you get when you drive.

The best time to drive is June through September, when the weather is warmer. Going in winter is not ideal, as the Coquihalla Highway can experience dangerous snowstorms. From October 1 to April 30, winter tires are mandatory in British Columbia.

3. You Can Create Your Own Schedule .

If you take the train or fly, you are locked into the schedules of the airline or railway. For us, it was so lovely to have a leisurely breakfast and then just hit the road when we were ready.

Also, we could stop along the way and take pictures if we found something that interested us.

4. Easier To Pack When You’re Driving .

One of the things I love about road trips, especially when it was just Karen and I, is that we have the whole back seat and trunk to carry our stuff.

Of course, we had our luggage, but we also had our camera gear ready in the back seat. We also had a cooler with some snacks and refreshments and even our hiking boots ready if needed.

I’m a bit of a fussy guy when it comes to pillows. So, next time we drive, I will take my pillow from home. If you want to have a good night’s sleep when traveling, nothing better than having your own pillow. I was disappointed at the pillows I got at the places we stayed, even at the high-end Fairmont hotels.

5. It’s Cheaper To Drive .

If you live in Vancouver or not far from there (e.g., Seattle), it can be cheaper to drive than pay for individual airfares, depending on the number of travelers. However, there have been some cheap flights recently, so check with your airlines for the latest fares.

For our Vancouver to Banff road trip, we used one tank of gas to get to Banff. Mind you, I drive an economy car, so if you have an SUV, it may take more.

6. No Need To Rent A Car .

If you can drive your car, you don’t need to have the additional cost of renting a vehicle at the airport. While there are shuttle buses and tour companies such as Brewster that service the Banff area, it’s always better to have your own transportation in Banff and Jasper so that you have more flexibility.

Before Driving From Vancouver To Banff

Vancouver is a fantastic city  with many attractions . If you don’t live in Vancouver, consider arriving a few days early before driving to Banff. Local attractions such as Grouse Mountain, Stanley Park, the Vancouver Aquarium, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge will add to the experience. 

This pre-vacation will also provide some comparison because when you travel to Golden, British Columbia, you can visit the Golden Skybridge and compare it to the Capilano Suspension Bridge. 

Similarly, you can compare Vancouver’s Grouse Mountain’s gondola ride to Banff’s Sulphur Mountain’s version. Even if it’s   raining in Vancouver , there are still lots of fun things to keep you entertained. 

National Park Fees

In order to stay in the Canadian Rockies, park-goers must purchase a park pass known as a Discovery Pass. Parks Canada charges CAD 10.50 a day per person or CAD 72.25 for a yearly pass. Alternatively, you can purchase a group pass for CAD 145.25, covering up to seven people in one vehicle.

The passes give admission to over 80 Canada National Parks. Discovery Passes can be purchased online , at the park, or at certain MEC stores in Vancouver, North Vancouver, Langley, and Kelowna. During your stay in Banff, hang your pass from your rearview mirror.

Choosing Your Route

Leaving Vancouver, the road trip to Banff travels on the Trans-Canada Hwy or BC-1. With one road to Banff, even the directionally challenged won’t get lost.

Jasper is north of Banff and about a 3-hour drive along the Icefields Parkway. For our trip, we chose to drive from Vancouver to Banff via Golden.

We spent one night in Golden, three nights in Banff, and one night in Lake Louise. Afterward, we made the drive north to Jasper and stayed for another few days. We returned home on the British Columbia Hwy 5 from Jasper.

While Banff attracts more tourists, Jasper offers equally jaw-dropping scenery. With  gorgeous Banff lakes ,  such as Peyto Lake and Bow Lake, the viewing points along the route make the drive more enjoyable.

Another option for driving is traveling on the British Columbia Highway 3, also called the Crowsnest Highway. It travels along the Canada/US border and passes through Osoyoos, Cranbrook, Radium Hot Springs, and hits Kootenay National Park before Banff.

While this route takes much longer due to the winding road, there’s much to enjoy along the way.

Where To Stop Along The Way

There are several places to stop along the way if you want to break up the drive and provide another town to visit. Places like Kamloops, Kelowna, or Revelstoke, all in British Columbia, can cut the daily drive in half and make it easier for families with young children.

Regardless of which route you choose, the Othello Tunnels , just outside of Hope, offers a great pit stop. Located in the Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park, visitors have a chance to walk through some old train tunnels in a picturesque canyon.

With a population of over 90,000, Kamloops has all the comforts of a larger city. With first-class wineries, golf courses, and numerous lakes, it will put you halfway to Banff.

Should you be driving the Crowsnest Highway, Grand Forks lies halfway between Vancouver and Banff.

We decided to drive to Golden, BC, rather than make the 9-hour non-stop journey to Banff and stay overnight. Golden had recently opened the Golden Skybridge , which includes Canada’s highest suspension bridge and other attractions. 

We got up early, stopped for breakfast, and arrived at the welcoming center before they opened. As a result, we were some of the first people on the bridge and beat the crowds. Karen and I don’t fear heights, but I was amazed to see how many people were on the side and afraid to walk across the bridge!

It does sway a bit, and the more people you get on the bridge, the more it tends to sway from left to right. Exciting!

Unlike the Capilano Suspension Bridge, no one patrols the two suspension bridges. So, with no one yelling for bridge goers to keep walking, we could take as many selfies as we wanted and enjoy the views of the canyon below.

The views from the bridge are incredible, and I would recommend stopping in Golden to visit Skybridge.

Also, don’t miss your chance to see Golden’s local celebrity, Boo, the grizzly bear. Housed in a 20-acre natural habitat, Boo allows visitors to snap their pictures safely while observing him in a natural environment.

Yoho National Park

By traveling through Golden and into Yoho National Park, we were able to get a preview of the beautiful Canadian Rockies. Takakkaw Falls, Canada’s second-highest waterfall, wowed us with its spectacular spray and picturesque outlook.

We kick-started our Canadian Rockies vacation with a stop at the Natural Bridge, Emerald Lake, and some easy hiking in Yoho.

When To Go To Banff

With an elevation of 4537 feet (1,383 m), Banff experiences an entire winter, with some areas receiving over ten feet of snow. As some roads become unpassable, selected attractions close for the winter months.

However, snowbirds can enjoy skiing on some of the local mountains, along with snowshoeing, tubing, sleigh rides, and ice skating.

Because Banff is such a world-class destination, it can be packed during the summer months when school is closed. It is because of this that we decided to visit Banff in early September. 

The goal was to have slightly smaller crowds, and it was a good decision. However, Banff each year grows in popularity, and we found that traffic in the small town was frequently grid-locked. 

If you have no choice but to go during July and August, try to get as close to downtown as you can afford so that you can walk to many of the stores and restaurants.

If you can go in June or September, or even May or October, most everything is still open, but the town is slightly less crowded.

Cell Phone Coverage

Outside of the town of Banff and Lake Louise, there is no cell phone coverage. While we used our phone’s GPS to get around, we made sure to put in our destination while in town.

Once we lost cell coverage, the GPS still worked. However, once outside the cell tower’s range, you won’t be able to put in another destination.

Navigating Banff National Park without cell coverage wasn’t a problem. Banff has one main highway called the Icefields Parkway, and we found it easy to find attractions along our route.

If you’re not comfortable driving in a foreign area without cell coverage, stop by the Banff Visitor Centre to get a complimentary map.

Where To Stay In Banff

The town of Banff is within a National Park, and as a result, there are strict building codes to preserve the environment.

Other than the expensive Banff Springs Hotel owned by Fairmont, you won’t find your typical chain hotels such as Sheraton, Holiday Inn, Four Seasons, etc. Most of the hotels are quaint and keep to the Rocky Mountain rustic theme of the area.

However, be prepared for a ‘price shock’ because there are NO discount hotels. It’s always a bit cheaper to stay on weekdays if you can because prices go up on weekends when local Albertans make the trip from nearby Calgary.

We stayed two nights at the Ptarmigan Inn, close to the downtown core, and included parking and complimentary breakfast. The room was very comfortable with a coffee machine, mini-fridge, etc.

The only thing we found unusual was that the rooms were not air-conditioned. Not a problem when we stayed in September, but it could have been a problem during the heat of June to August. Although Banff is at a 4,500 feet elevation, so, it can be cooler.

We also stayed at two pricier Fairmont hotels; the Banff Springs and the Chateau Lake Louise. In the summer, rooms go for over CAD 600 a night with fees. When comparing Banff Springs to Chateau Lake Louise , it really depends on your preferences; location, price, by a fantastic lake, or next to the golf course.

If the hotels are out of your budget, you can snag a deal for half the price in winter. While the restaurants in Chateau Lake Louise were extremely expensive, we found some budget-friendly Lake Louise restaurants that offer gluten-free for Karen.

Looking For Wildlife

One of the best parts of driving to Banff and Jasper is the ability to see wildlife on the side of the road. We saw the occasional mule deer near Golden and elk in Banff, but the best wildlife viewing was in Jasper.

We always kept our cameras and cell phones handy in case we wanted to pull over quickly and grab a quick shot. While hiking to Moose Lake in Jasper, we witnessed two moose swimming across Maligne Lake.

Whenever we saw cars pulled over on the highway and their hazard flashers on, we knew someone had spotted wildlife and was trying to take a picture. Keep in mind that these are wild animals, and you should always keep a safe distance from them.

Don’t be those types of tourists who try to walk too close to get a better shot. Karen always had her telephoto lens on her camera so she could get some fantastic pictures even from a distance.

Visitors can see wildlife outside the parks. Animals are not fenced inside national parks, so be sure to look for animals along your route during your road trip. Remember, most wildlife species are camouflaged and not easy to spot.

How To Save Money On A Road Trip To Banff

Karen and I live a comfortable lifestyle, but we always like to save money when we can. That’s one of the reasons that we chose to drive to Banff instead of flying because we can pack our snack lunches, carry a cooler with us, and lower our transportation costs.

The round trip from Vancouver to Banff, Jasper, and back was about 2,500 km (1,550 miles), which we did on just a little over three tanks of gas! Granted, I drive a mid-size fuel-efficient car, and it would be different if I were driving a truck or SUV.

Here are some of the ways we saved money on our trip:

• Bring a cooler and a grocery bag of your favorite snacks.

We loaded up a small camping cooler with granola bars, meat sticks, fruit, and water. This gave us our favorite “comfort food” during our road trip and reduced the need for frequent stops.

Since Karen is Celiac, we made sure to have plenty of gluten-free snacks, which are harder to purchase in Banff National Park.

• Reserve your accommodations early.

Karen is a master at finding good hotel deals. She found great rates on hotels that were located downtown or close to attractions we wanted to visit. If you don’t book early, you may find many hotels with no vacancies, or you’ll be paying a premium rate.

• Buy your Parks Canada Di scovery Pass from another traveler.

In Canada, you need a Parks Canada Discovery Pass to visit national parks or some historical sites. A daily pass per person is CAD 10.50, but an annual pass is CAD 72.25.

If you are visiting for over seven days, it makes sense to get yearly access. However, there is an online market through Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, etc., where people sell their annual passes after they’ve finished their trips.

Karen bought our annual group pass online via Marketplace for CAD 35 that had an original retail value of CAD 140. Even better, she sold the pass after our trip for CAD 50! We traveled in Sept. 2021, and the passes were valid until June 2022.

• Find reasonably priced hotels where breakfast and parking are included.

At expensive hotels such as Banff Springs or Chateau Lake Louise, breakfast and parking incur a fee. As a result, we paid about CAD 30/day for parking and over CAD 80 for breakfast for two. Ouch! However, at other hotels, we had complimentary breakfast and parking. Much more budget-friendly.

• Avoid the weekends.

Traveling from Sunday to Thursday can save money on hotel bookings. Most hotels charge a premium for Fridays and Saturdays as locals spend their weekends in the parks.

Karen and I have both camped when we were younger, but we tend to want a comfy bed in a warm hotel room at this stage in life. Also, it’s great to have basics like flush toilets rather than “roughing it” in a tent or camper in a National Park.

However, if you are traveling as a family with kids, camping can save you money. Also, because you’re in the beautiful Rocky Mountains, some people prefer to camp amongst the majestic mountains and trees.

We had considered renting an RV (Recreational Vehicle) to make the road trip from Vancouver to Banff, but after considering all the costs for the rental, site fees, gas, mileage, etc., it wasn’t any cheaper.

Also, some roads are not accessible with an RV. If you already own your camper or trailer, it can save you a lot compared to hotels during peak season.

A Vancouver To Banff Road Trip With An Electric Vehicle (EV)

I have long been a fan of Tesla and hope to one day to own one. For many EV owners, there is a common fear of ‘Range Anxiety’ where you fear running out of electricity and being stuck in the middle of nowhere without a charging station in sight!

Ten years (or even five years) ago, this was a real problem where it was difficult to make long road trips in EVs. However, this is no longer a problem, depending on the vehicle you are driving and where you are driving in North America.

Tesla has invested significantly in building out its Supercharger network. They are building and opening new charging stations every week and currently have about 25,000 charging stations worldwide.

In addition to Tesla charging stations, ChargePoint has over 30,000 stations globally. In Canada, the Petro Canada network of gas stations also has EV charging stations installed “every 250 km (150 miles) or less from Halifax, Nova Scotia to Victoria, British Columbia” (according to their website).

Bottom line, regardless of which EV you have, you should be able to find a charging station along your way.

The only inconvenience is that EV charging can take 30 minutes for the Superfast Charging stations or up to 6 hours for the slower charge stations. The technology and speed of charging are improving every year, so check online for the latest info.

If you run out of power and get stuck before you can reach a charging station, some new businesses are offering remote charging services where they will come to you and give you enough of a charge to get to your town to charge.

We noticed when we left the Greater Vancouver area there were fewer electric vehicles on the highways. Although there were plenty of charging stations in the Canadian Rockies, we saw very few EVs utilizing them.

Final Thoughts

Visiting Banff and Jasper was on my Bucket List for a while, so it was perfect that we got to make the trip recently. The drive from Vancouver to Banff and then to Jasper will be etched in my memory forever. It’s one of the most scenic and awe-inspiring drives I have ever taken.

The mountains, seeing wildlife, picturesque lakes, and glacial-fed rivers have reinforced how we are all connected on this planet earth and how real climate change is.

While we got to visit many of the places that Banff and Jasper are known for, I couldn’t wait to go back. So, three months later, we flew to Calgary and enjoyed a whirlwind five-day winter escape in Banff.  

During those five days, I got to ice skate on Lake Louise, go dog sledding in Canmore , take a horse-drawn sleigh ride, and hiked Johnston Canyon to see its frozen waterfall.

While our summer drive from Vancouver was easy, inexpensive, and the best way to see the Canadian Rocky Mountains, I wouldn’t recommend it in winter. I hope you can make the trip someday soon!

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Backpacking in Canada , Guest Posts , Road Trips

Vancouver to banff road trip through the rocky mountains.

There are several different driving routes from Vancouver to Banff, but for this road trip itinerary, we’ll focus on the Northern Route that passes through a section of the Rocky Mountains and several provincial and national parks in British Columbia and Alberta. This epic Vancouver to Banff road trip is considered to be one of the best road trips on earth, especially if you love nature, wildlife and culture.

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This is a guest post by Jarryd and Alesha from NOMADasaurus and Van Life Theory

How Long Do You Need

It’s recommended you put aside at least 10 days to get the most out of this trip.  The best time to visit is between June and September when you can get the best of the weather and driving conditions.

Along this route, you’ll see spectacular scenery consisting of snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes and picture-perfect towns and villages, each with its own set of attractions. You’ll also spot wildlife including elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats and maybe even a grizzly bear if you’re lucky!

Exploring the Rocky Mountains is certainly one of the top things to do in Canada , so are you ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime on this Canadian road trip?

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What to Pack for Your Road Trip

Check out this article for my top road trip essentials complete with a printable road trip checklist.

Vancouver 

Your start point.

If you’re getting ready to drive to Banff from Vancouver I assume you’ve already spent several days in Vancouver, British Columbia.  If not, you should set aside some time to explore this fabulous city. 

It isn’t the cheapest destination – one of the most expensive cities in Canada in fact, but there are plenty of free things to do in Vancouver if you are on a tight budget!  Popular attractions include the Vancouver Art Gallery, Gastown, China Town and the excellent hiking trails in parks and forests around the city.

Squamish and Whistler 

Visit for amazing views and a world-class mountain resort.

After you’ve spent some time in Vancouver, head north on Highway 99 towards Squamish. This is where you’ll find your first must-visit attraction, The Sea to Sky Gondola. Enjoy stunning views of Howe Sound on the way up and once at the top, make the most of the hiking trails and the amazing Sky Pilot Suspension Bridge. 

Whistler is one of the top mountain resorts in Canada. Although known for some of the best downhill skiing around, Whistler also has much to offer roadtrippers passing through during the warmer months including ziplining, kayaking, mountain biking and hiking. 

While exploring the town, some of the attractions worth checking out include the Audain Art Museum and the 70-metre waterfall at Brandywine Falls Provincial Park. Lost Lake is a great place to take a refreshing dip and the water is surprisingly warm during the summer months. 

After an exciting day exploring the natural beauty of Whistler, you’ll likely be staying here for the night. If you’re camping, Cheakamus Lake Campground is a great spot. Alternatively, Crystal Lodge Hotel provides budget-friendly accommodation. 

If you want to really splurge, The Fairmont Chateau Whistler provides a luxurious experience that includes a golf course, spa, several restaurants, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and fully-equipped rooms.

Pemberton and Kamloops 

Visit for mountain scenery mixed with urban attractions.

From Whistler, you’ll pass through the pretty mountain village of Pemberton and enjoy scenic mountain views. Kamloops is the next major stop along this route. This small city is a lovely mix of natural wonders and urban delights. 

Spend the morning hiking in the many municipal and provincial parks that are in the area. In the afternoon, visit some of the attractions in Kamloops such as the BC Wildlife Park, Secwepemc Museum & Heritage Park (currently only offering online tours) and Privato Vineyard & Winery. After a day of exploring, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants that offer a wide variety of local and ethnic foods.  

Wells Gray Provincial Park 

Visit for hiking adventures with waterfalls and unique landscapes

Since you’ll want to be well-rested to explore the next must-see attraction on this road trip, Wells Gray Provincial Park, you can either stay at one of the many hotels in Kamloops or drive to the national park and camp for the night. 

Wells Gray Provincial Park is mostly known for being home to more than 40 waterfalls and many hiking trails. Explore diverse landscapes and fascinating geological features or embark on a white-water rafting adventure down the Clearwater River.  

Visit a mountain village and the Rocky Mountain’s highest peak

Valemount is another scenic mountain village on this amazing Vancouver to Banff road trip, and the best way to enjoy the area’s views is to take a drive up 5 Mile Road which overlooks the valley set between the stunning mountain peaks.

Other attractions in the area include the Valemount Museum, Willmore Wilderness Park, Three Ranges Brewing Company and Overlander Falls. 

By far, the can’t-miss attraction is Mount Robson Provincial Park. This is where you’ll find the highest peak in the Canadian Rocky Mountains and be able to participate in many adventures including kayaking, canoeing, white-water rafting, hiking and scenic helicopter tours. 

Explore the Wonders of Alberta’s Rocky Mountain Parks

Not far from Mount Robson, you’ll cross the border into Alberta where you’ll find the pristine nature of Jasper National Park. Jasper is known for its natural beauty that’s virtually untouched compared to the other great national parks in the Rocky Mountains. It’s less crowded and you have a better chance at seeing wildlife without venturing too far off the beaten track. 

Jasper National Park

Enjoy wildlife, pristine wilderness and glacier lakes

The town of Jasper is where you’ll find many restaurants, top-rated hotels, including the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, and attractions such as The Jasper Planetarium, Our Native Land Art Gallery, The Den Wildlife Museum and the Yellowhead Museum. The Jasper SkyTram climbs 2,263 metres above sea level where you’ll enjoy amazing views of the mountain peaks and town below. 

Deeper into the national park, you’ll find more world-class attractions. This section of highway that connects Jasper and Banff National Parks is known as the Icefields Parkway. While there are many lakes in this region, if you only get to see one, make it Maligne Lake. Known for its stunning blue colour and surrounding mountain scenery, visitors enjoy canoeing and kayaking on the calm waters of this huge lake. 

You can also take a guided cruise to Spirit Island on a tour that’s said to be one of the best in the whole country. Other notable attractions along this stretch include Athabasca Glacier, Athabasca Falls and Glacier Skywalk. 

Feel like you need some pampering and relaxation between stops? Kick back in the hottest hot springs in the Rockies at Miette Hot Springs and enjoy a soothing soak in mountain-sourced mineral-rich waters. 

Lake Louise and Banff National Park

The last leg of your journey

Of all the parks along this route, Banff National Park is the most popular with the most epic activities and attractions . As you drive through this park, you’ll see more stunning Rocky Mountain vistas and be able to participate in every outdoor activity you can think of. 

Lake Louise is one of the most visited attractions in the park. The sparkling blue waters of this beautiful lake are perfect for canoeing and kayaking and there are hiking trails around the lake. Don’t forget to visit the grounds and lobby of the lovely Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Other must-see attractions include Moraine Lake, Banff Upper Hot Springs and Lake Minnewanka.  

Explore a Quintessential Mountain Village

In the village of Banff , one of the top attractions is the Banff Gondola, which climbs to the summit of Sulphur Mountain where you’ll enjoy more spectacular Rocky Mountain views and you’ll find dining options, an interpretive centre and a theatre.  

The village of Banff is an exciting place to be with many museums, galleries, pubs, nightclubs, live music venues and restaurants to suit every taste and budget. There’s always something going on but don’t let the adventure stop here! 

After a long day exploring this vibrant town, backtrack just a little to the Sunshine Village Resort where there are just as many things to do in the summer as there are in winter. Stay the night in one of their lovely rooms and spend the next day in the great outdoors exploring more of this fabulous Rocky Mountain park. 

About the Authors

Alesha and Jarryd are travel writers, photographers and creators from Australia who have been travelling the world together non-stop since 2008. Their passion for adventure travel, sustainable tourism and van life has seen them visit some of the most remote destinations on the planet, seeking out incredible landscapes and unique cultures. You can follow their adventures on  NOMADasaurus  and  Van Life Theory .

Cover image Bow River Sunrise credit | NOMADasaurus

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Hi! I'm Claire Sturzaker, a 30-something foodie traveller who loves to enjoy the best of a destination without breaking the bank. I'm here to help you and all women backpackers to plan their best budget travel adventure. I am an avid supporter of female solo travel, and took my first solo trip 20 years ago! I love to write about travel, hostels, backpacking and van life.

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Road Trip Vancouver to Banff in 5 Days: Revelstoke, Golden, and Lake Louise

While we have only been home for a few days from our road trip from Vancouver to Banff, I have been inundated with requests on replicating or expanding on our recent trip. I like to call our trip from Vancouver to Banff an express trip, because we left on a Monday and were home on a Friday. If you have more time, I suggest you add to this itinerary. However, I wanted to share with you where we went, what we did, and where we stayed to help you start to plan your own trip from Vancouver to Banff, especially if you are traveling with kids like we were!

Part 1 Vancouver to Banff: Vancouver to Revelstoke

Travel Time: 6 hours

Distance: ~550 km

Accommodation : Sutton Place Revelstoke Mountain

We drove straight from the Vancouver suburbs to Revelstoke. It took about 6 hours, stopping just once along the way. We had a busy day planned at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort and wanted to be able to take advantage of as much as the day as possible. While it is light out quite late in British Columbia in the summer (usually until close to 10 pm), much of the resort shuts down around dinnertime (including the restaurants on the ski hill.)

Driving from Vancouver to Revelstoke is quite easy, take Highway 1 out of town and when you get to Hope, hop onto HWY 5, the Coquihalla Highway, that will take you to Kamloops. From Kamloops, you get back onto HWY 1 and that will take you right to Revelstoke. More on getting from Vancouver to Revelstoke .

This is all highway driving and we were able to do this on a little less than one tank of fuel. Which for my Honda Pilot, is about 70 litres and costs around $110 to fill up when gas prices are over 1.60 / litre.

Because we were on a quick trip to Banff and back, Revelstoke was the perfect midpoint to stop for the (day and) night. We chose to stay at the Sutton Place on Revelstoke Mountain Resort because it meant we could park the car until the next day and enjoy all of the summer activities on the hill without worrying about driving back into town at the end of the day. There would be lots of car travel to come. It also offered a swimming pool (one of our family hotel musts, and had large rooms for our crew of 7 – we were 2 adults and 5 kids aged 5 to 15 and chose a 2 bedroom suite (since most of the kids were happy to sleep with us adults, but a 3 bdrm would have probably done us a bit better.)

We priced out other hotels in town, but would have had to book 2 rooms to fit us all in. The Sutton was the perfect choice. It also had a kitchen, which would have been perfect if we were staying a few nights. When we return this winter, I know I will love having the kitchen and being right on the mountain. The gondola was just a few steps from the exit of the hotel! The one thing that I did not like about the Sutton was that it was HUGE and our car ended up being 5 minutes walk from our room and to get to the pool it required walking outside into the “village” and into another building. But other than that, it was perfect!

Part 2 Play All Day at Revelstoke Mountain Resort

We arrived in Revelstoke around 2 pm which gave us just under half a day to enjoy the resort. I would suggest a bit more time, but now that we have done it, we know! The Revelstoke coaster is the big draw to the ski hill in the summer, allowing those non-mountain bikers to experience the thrill of a 1.4 km drop down the hill, reaching speeds of up to 42 km/h.

Because the coaster is so popular, if you have the chance, go in the morning. We did not and there was a wait of almost 2 hours. But that did not worry us. We checked in, got our Play All day passes and then took the Revelation Gondola up the mountain for a late lunch at the Mackenzie Outpost.

At the top of the Revelation Gondola, the kids could have ran around and explored for hours if we had had the time. The alpine landscape is very different than lower down the mountain. The alpine is full of loose rock and is located at over 1600m. The views of Revelstoke below and the surrounding mountains are stunning!

After lunch, our time had come up for the coaster, so we hopped into the queue (of just 5 people) and had our first coaster ride. The Resort has put together an awesome system to avoid giant queues on the hill. There are big screens with numbers on them and when your numbers come up, you can get into the line. This keeps the coaster at capacity without a big queue. If you have a play-all-day pass, you can use your second coaster ride right away, or save it for a bit later.

I have a post specifically on everything to do at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort. It provides more details on what to do while you are there!

Revestoke Mountain Resort Important Information

PLAY ALL DAY PASSES

Children 6-12 $59

Under 5 $20

Includes up to 2 coaster rides, aerial park access, gondola hiking & sightseeing, axe throwing (age 10+), and disc golf.

Book online in advance or buy same day at the resort (if available)

REVELSTOKE COASTER ONLY PASS

Children 6-12 $29 ($12 if riding with an adult)

Under 5 $12

Includes one coaster ride.

Activity Hours

Hiking & Sightseeing Upper Gondola: 9:00am – 5:45pm Lower Gondola: 8:00am – 7:45pm

Pipe Mountain Coaster 8:00am – 8:00pm

Aerial Adventure Park   9:00am – 7:00pm (6:00pm last start time)

Axe Throwing 10:00am – 6:00pm

Mountain Biking   9:00am – 5:45pm (Stoke Climb closes at 4:30)

Part 3 Golden

The next part of the Road trip from Vancouver to Banff took us on a 2 hour drive from Revelstoke to Golden. Make sure you get gas in Revelstoke (we forgot when we driving out of town) as there is not much in the way of services between these two points.

There are two things that you should not miss in Golden. The first, is the brand new Golden SkyBridge , Canada’s highest suspension bridge. At 426 feet off the canyon floor, it offers 360 degree views of the Purcell mountains and the Rocky Mountains and the canyon and waterfall below.

The second thing you should not miss is Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. With views from all directions atop the mountain and experiencing The Grizzly Bear Refuge, and its resident Grizzly, Boo. By observing Boo in his natural habitat, guests have the opportunity to see firsthand how beautiful and majestic grizzly bears really are. Raising awareness of these secretive and noble creatures helps to improve the plight of this embattled species.

Golden Sky Bridge Information

Hours: June – Sept 6th 9am-9pm

Sept 6th to Oct 11th 9am – 8pm

Location: 305 Golden Donald Upper Road (Just 2 minutes off Hwy 1)

2021 Rates: Adults $34 Children $17

What makes it special? Beyond the views and beyond the record-breaking height of these two suspension bridges, there is an epic kids playground that most kids could spend hours on! There is also a zipline and ropes course coming soon

How long to spend here? If you want to walk the suspension bridges, an hour is enough. If you have kids, add more time to play at the playground.

Where can I get more info? visit my post on the Golden Skybridge

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Summer Information

The Adventure pass gives you sightseeing to the top of the mountain as well as a Grizzly interpretive tour. It is the best option to get the most of your time on the mountain. The mountain is also open for mountain biking.

2021 Rates: Adult $50.95 Youth (13-17) $42.95 Child (6-12) $24.95 Senior $42.95

2021 Mountain Biking Rates (Gondola & Catamount Chair): Adult $61.95 Youth (13-17) $45.95 Child (6-12) $30.95 Senior $45.95 (Catamount Chair only rates are cheaper)

What makes it special? As the first Grizzly bear refuge, Boo’s time in captivity has been instrumental in creating many rescue and release programs for Grizzly bears in BC.

How long to spend here? Minimum 2 hours. The Grizzly tour is almost an hour and a visit to the top of Kicking Horse offers unparalleled views. If you have time, allow time to hike at the top.

Part 4 Golden To Canmore

While I am not telling you my Itinerary is perfect, I am telling you what my itinerary was. So after leaving kicking horse in the late afternoon, we drove to Canmore where we would stay for the next three nights. If we were to redo this trip, I would do Golden on the way there and Revelstoke on the way back, or the other way around. I will provide more info at the end on what I think the perfect itinerary would be (after throwing this one together … I may travel a lot, but that does not mean I plan all of the details ahead of time!)

We got into the Worldmark Canmore – Banff in the evening. My parents have a timeshare there, that is why we booked it. The name is a bit misleading, I did not know we would be 30 minutes outside of Banff, but it is a stunning town, and was happy to experience it.

Part 5 Banff in One Day

We had one day to get a first impression of Banff. We jumped at the opportunity to take a tour to give us an overview of the town. We chose to go with Pursuit’ s Open Top Touring buses ! These 1930’s inspired vehicles give plenty of views, and offer insight into what Banff was like in the 1930s. They stop at viewpoints and tell stories of what made Banff into what it was today.

After our tour we grabbed lunch and then rented bikes for the afternoon. We chose to rent from Snowtips / Baktrax because of their kid’s inventory! They had bikes for all ages as well as the ride-along bike attachment or a carrier! If we had planned better we would have chosen our route in advance, but we ended up riding over to the golf course. The road riding was nice, but the traffic was a learning curve for the kids a bit! We did get to take in the waterfall, which was well worth the trip!

At the end of the day we headed back the 30 minute drive to Canmore for a swim and dinner in our accommodations.

RELATED: If you love shopping, you will find plenty of souvenir shopping options in Banff. Read this guide to Canadian souvenirs so you know what you should be looking for!

Visiting Banff Guide

There are a few things you need to know about visiting Banff. First, the city lies right in the middle of a National Park. In order to visit the city, you need to have a park pass. You can buy them on the highway, or online in advance.

Most of the parking is paid parking. But what I liked about it was that it was not lot specific. You could renew by the hour (or two) and park anywhere in the paid parking areas. It is also a very walkable downtown, so best to leave your car somewhere convenient and walk around from there.

I would also suggest spending a night in town, that was something we will fore sure do on our next trip!

Part 6 Lake Louise Bucketlist Canoe Trip

I am a bucketlist junkie, if I see a stunning photo, I want to take the same photo. If I see an epic experience, I want to do it too. Well, Lake Louise offered both. A stunning backdrop, and a chance to canoe across the lake with my kids. The weather could not have been more perfect, the lake was like glass and the skies were blue. While the canoe rental is expensive, I honestly think it was well worth it!

After lake Louise we also visited Lake Morraine which was equally (if not more) stunning. You want to allow at least 30 minutes for each lake to get a quick look, add an hour for Canoeing and some time for hiking around Lake Morraine if that interests you.

The toughest part about the visit to Lake Louise is the parking situation. Visiting Lake Louise and Lake Morraine also requires a Parks Canada pass, as they are inside Banff National Park. The Parks Canada website makes it very clear that parking is very limited at both of the parking lots (it also costs to Park at Lake Louise, over $11 for the day pass). What they have done is put together a park and ride shuttle.

You buy your shuttle time in advance online. When you arrive to the park and ride (parking is free) you board the shuttle to either lake. There is another shuttle that runs in between the lakes. We chose to do Lake Louise first, then shuttle to Lake Morraine and then shuttle back to the car. If you drive to Lake Louise and then want to go to Lake Morraine, you have to drive, and then hope there is parking at the second lake.

The Parks Canada site makes it sound like there are big lineups for the shuttle. We went mid-week, and there were no lineups for the shuttle. One time, we were the only group on the shuttle. I will write a post more about how to book the shuttle. (Because it is a government website, it is ridiculously complicated and not-user friendly … what government site is, but I promise, the experience itself was seamless and actually very convenient!)

We spent just over 3 hours to do both lakes and then headed back to Canmore (about an hour’s drive) and enjoyed an afternoon at the pool. We were going home already the next day.

Part 7 Vancouver to Banff Road Trip is Going Home

We packed up early in the morning and were on the road by 9am. We knew it was a long road home, but had commitments to make, hence why it was a quick trip. We drove straight from Canmore back to Vancouver, stopping in Revelstoke (about 4 hours in) to have lunch and get fuel (it was soooo busy there, its a popular meal and rest stop) and continued on to Sicamous. 10km out of Sicamous we encountered dead stop traffic. Thanks to DriveBC (I highly suggest you check it out before you leave and during your trip for all road related matters) we found out there had been a collision and the road was closed. We waited for 20 minutes before turning around and back in Sicamous we headed to Vernon. We were able to divert through Enderby, only adding about 45 minutes to our trip. We stopped once for ice cream and continued the drive back home.

Honestly the kids did great, it was a long time to be in the car. But if I had to do it again, I would have broken up the drove home with a Revelstoke or Golden overnight. While not every road trip is perfect, this is the itinerary we did. Now that we have done it and learned from our planning errors, I have put together an itinerary that (to me) makes more sense over the same amount of days!

Suggested Itinerary Road Trip Vancouver to Banff and back in 5 Days

Day 1 Vancouver to Golden

Drive to Golden and enjoy the skybridge in the late evening.

Revelstoke and enjoy Revelstoke Mountain Resort in the afternoon. Overnight at the Sutton Place on Revelstoke Mountain Resort

Day 2 Golden to Canmore

Get up in the morning and enjoy Kicking Horse Mountain resort and then drive to Canmore. Enjoy an afternoon exploring in Canmore and overnight.

Day 3 Banff Day Trip

Enjoy Banff for the day and either return to Canmore accommodations or stay overnight in Banff

Day 4 Lake Louise and Lake Morraine then to Revelstoke

The lakes can be done in a half day, then drive to Revelstoke for overnight. If you start early enough, you can enjoy the resort in the evening. Overnight st Sutton Place.

Day 5 Revelstoke to Vancouver

If you did not enjoy the resort the night before, an early morning start means the coaster will likely have no lineup. Explore the resort until the early afternoon and then it is a 6 hour drive back home.

Lindsay Nieminen is the creator of UncoveringBC.com. She grew up and still lives in the suburbs of Vancouver with her family. She aims to inspire inform, and educate others about traveling in her home province of British Columbia. She is also the creator of carpediemourway.com  which aims to show parents how to seek out adventure at home or abroad, with their children in tow!

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From Vancouver to Banff: 5 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Magee Walker Updated May 26, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Western Canada is incredibly scenic – but it is also quite vast. For instance, the distance between the coastal city of Vancouver, British Columbia and the Rockies' Banff National Park in Alberta is about 900 kilometers – to put that in perspective, Munich, Germany and Paris, France are nearer to one another!

That doesn't mean that you can't easily travel between Vancouver and Banff. On the contrary, the trip between these two world-class destinations is jaw-droppingly beautiful and well worth doing if your timing (and the weather) permits. What it does mean, however, is that you need to plan ahead in order to make it happen.

To help with your planning, we've broken down the five best ways to travel from Vancouver to Banff.

On This Page:

• Vancouver to Banff with a Tour
• Vancouver to Banff by Car
• Vancouver to Banff by Train
• Vancouver to Banff by Bus
• Vancouver to Banff by Plane

1. Vancouver to Banff with a Tour

One of the best ways to experience the trip between Vancouver and Banff – and all the highlights in between – is to take a tour. The tour company takes care of all the logistics, from booking hotel rooms to navigating the roads, while you get to sit back in a comfortable coach and take in the ride.

These tours are more than just a mode of transportation – they also allow time for exploring and visiting other amazing destinations near Banff, like Jasper and Lake Louise . In just four days, a small-group tour will take you from Vancouver to the heart of the Rockies and back . Since someone else is doing all the driving, you'll have plenty of energy to enjoy each of the spectacular stops along the way.

As we'll discuss shortly, the roads between Vancouver and Banff can be treacherous in winter months. Because of that, these tours are only offered in the warmer months, between May and September . Traveling in the summer means enjoying long days, lots of sunshine, plenty of wildlife, and prime conditions for many outdoor activities.

2. Vancouver to Banff by Car

Consider it the Great Western Canadian Road Trip – traveling from Vancouver to Banff by car is an unforgettable adventure. There are a few different routes to choose from: the first leg of the trip takes you out to Kamloops, either by heading north past Whistler along Highway 99 or east through the Fraser Valley along Highway 1 and up through Merritt on Highway 5 . The former is arguably the more scenic of the two routes, but the latter gets you to Kamloops faster.

From Kamloops, you'll head east through the interior of British Columbia along Highway 1 . The perk of having your own car means you can stop at some interesting places along the way, like the ski town of Revelstoke or the pristine Glacier National Park .

Driving from Vancouver to Banff in the summer has all the makings of an amazing road trip. Driving from Vancouver to Banff in the winter is another story. Whichever route you choose, you risk encountering serious winter conditions on the road – snow, ice, that kind of thing. Don't even think about making the trip without winter tires, and if you don't have experience driving in snowy conditions, then you might want to make other plans if the forecast calls for stormy weather.

In perfect conditions and if you drive without stopping, the trip can take as little as nine hours . Of course, if the weather is that good, chances are that you're going to want to make a few stops along the way to take in your surroundings.

If this is part of a larger trip to western Canada or even across Canada, you may want to review our list of Canada Itineraries to help plan your routes and stops.

3. Vancouver to Banff by Train

All aboard the Rocky Mountaineer ! Traveling to Banff from Vancouver by train offers the best of all worlds. You'll never have to contend with traffic, you can take in the views from the comfort of your seat, and you can stretch your legs whenever you feel like it. The Rocky Mountaineer route follows what is arguably one of the most scenic journeys in all of Canada , offering virtually unobscured views thanks to windows that wrap up and extend over part of the roof.

It takes two days to reach Banff by train from Vancouver (one way), including an overnight stop in Kamloops. The train leaves every few days, but only from mid-April to mid-October – so if you're hoping to head to Banff for some skiing, then this may not be the best option for you. Although the stop along the way takes more time than a direct ride, tourists get a full sightseeing experience since they are passing through the Canadian Rockies by daylight (and getting a good night's sleep in a real bed, so they can fully enjoy the experience).

All train rides include breakfast and lunch; however, passengers can also opt for full meal packages that include dinner on the train. Transportation to and from the hotel in Kamloops is also included. Passengers can choose between SilverLeaf and GoldLeaf service. Advantages to the upgraded seating include a two-level passenger car with a dedicated dining area downstairs and all seating for the ride on the upper deck, providing unparalleled views through a transparent dome, as well as a private open-air viewing platform.

For tourists who want the convenience of a package vacation, the train operators also offer multi-day options that include lodgings in Vancouver, Banff, and Kamloops. They also help facilitate other add-ons, including arranging for car rentals, tours, and admission to attractions.

Traveling by train is also pretty pricey compared to most of the other options on this list – it is even more expensive than taking the plane! But ask anyone who has splurged on the trip, and they'll tell you that it is a journey that you'll remember for a long, long time.

4. Vancouver to Banff by Bus

If you want to visit Banff in the winter but prefer not to make the drive yourself, book a ticket on a bus . This will take a little longer than driving on your own – since the bus stops at other destinations along the route, it takes about 13 hours and 15 minutes – but you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

Unlike the train or a small-group tour, the bus to Banff runs year-round , making it a good (and relatively affordable) option for those traveling in the winter. Of course, in stormy conditions, you can expect to encounter delays – but at least you won't be the one behind the wheel. Rather than fretting about driving, you can get lost in a book or try to spot wildlife outside.

From June through September, travelers can also use On-It Regional Transit to travel the Calgary-to-Banff leg of the journey by bus, and The Banff Express operates this route year-round.

5. Vancouver to Banff by Plane

While you can't fly directly into Banff, you can fly from Vancouver (YVR) to Calgary (YYC) , which is only about an hour-and-a-half away from Banff. Air Canada and West Jet both offer direct flights between YVR and YYC. Flight times are short – just shy of 90 minutes – but remember to give yourself extra time to get to the airport and make your way through security.

One-way flights run at a few hundred bucks, but prices fluctuate depending on the time of year. Expect to pay more if you are planning a ski trip over the holidays, for instance. For a cheaper option, check out Flair Air . This is a no-frills airline that offers a base price that is much lower than Air Canada and West Jet, but expect to pay more for add-ons, including baggage that goes in the overhead bin.

From Calgary, there are plenty of options (e.g., shuttle, car rental, taxi) for getting yourself up to Banff, depending on your budget, your timing, and your personal preferences.

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7 Day road trip to Banff and Jasper from Vancouver

Since we moved to Vancouver last summer I’ve been desperate to take a road trip to Banff and Jasper in the Rocky Mountains. How could you not be when you see how beautiful they are?

We’ve been to Banff several times over the years and have always had fun!

If you live in Vancouver or are visiting Canada and are planning a road trip to Banff and Jasper starting and/or ending in Vancouver then here is an itinerary for a 7-day road trip to the Canadian Rockies.

This Vancouver to Banff and Jasper road trip itinerary is exactly what we did in a week, so you can trust it’s totally doable.

See my road trip packing list essentials! 

7 Day road trip to Banff & Jasper from Vancouver

This Banff and Jasper itinerary for a road trip from Vancouver to the Rocky Mountains can be done as a one-way trip or two ways. One of the more popular routes is to go from Vancouver to Banff to Jasper and then Jasper National Park to Vancouver, only we went from Vancouver to Jasper National Park and then on to Banff and Lake Louise.

Our trip from Vancouver to Banff, Jasper & Yoho and back in 8 days. However, if you’re just visiting Canada and are road-tripping from Vancouver to Calgary or Calgary to Vancouver.

This would also work as a 7-day road trip Calgary to Vancouver.

You can definitely make this road trip longer, but I wouldn’t recommend making it shorter. There are some suggestions towards the end of this post on ways to make the road trip longer to 2 or 3 weeks.

Canadian Rockies road trip map to Banff, Jasper and Yoho National Park from Vancouver

Below is a map with the places, hikes and attractions I recommend on this 7-day road trip from Vancouver to the Rocky Mountains. This is far from everything there is to do, but it’s what we did on our road trip to Banff, Jasper and Yoho from Vancouver.

You can skip Jasper and just make it a Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary instead, but I loved Jasper so I recommend trying to make time for it!

Jasper vs Banff

The great thing about this Canada Rockies road trip itinerary is that you don’t have to make the choice between Banff or Jasper. But, if you’re wondering which one I’d pick then it’d be Jasper hands down.

To be fair to Banff I didn’t get to see it at its best since the whole town was shrouded in forest fire smoke. I mean, I’m sure there are  mountains around Banff I just couldn’t see them.

But even without the smoke, Jasper wins as it felt a lot wild and remote and there were fewer people there.

We didn’t have to wake up at 5 am to find a parking spot as we did in Banff and we saw more bears, elk and mountain goats too.

But explore both and decide for yourself!

Best time to visit Canadian Rockies?

This mostly depends on your interests and reasons for visiting the Canadian Rockies in the first place. If you’re there to ski then you’ll want to visit between December – March.

However, if you’re there for hiking and seeing the gorgeous colours of the lakes in the area then you’ll want to plan your Canadian Rockies trip for the summer months (June-August) when the snow is pretty much all gone.

However, summer is often very, very busy. During our trip in August Banff and Lake Louise were pretty much swarming with people.

This makes parking difficult and can take away from the beauty of the top attractions in the Rockies when you’re sharing it with hundreds of people at the same time.

Whilst September is a bit quieter, it snows early in the Rockies sometimes. Some of our friends experienced a lot of snow during their trip in the middle of September so that’s something to bear in mind. Your driving conditions might be more tricky and the weather a lot colder.

Best way to see the Canadian Rockies

The easiest way to travel the Canadian Rockies is by camper van. Not only does this mean you can save a tonne of your accommodation (since you can camp in this and not have to stay in hotels), but it’s just a fun way to travel. I love being able to pull up anywhere in our van, Elvis, and make a cup of tea or enjoy lunch with a view.

If you’re looking to rent a campervan for your Canadian Rockies itinerary then take a look at Escape Campervans . People list their campervans on here and you can rent them for your trip. You can find everything from self-converted homes like our Elvis, to much bigger RVs too!

If you’d prefer to go from Vancouver to Banff by car and stay in hotels or are happy to tent camp then you can hire a smaller car.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

You can usually pick up and drop off your rental car in different cities. So, if you’re only doing this Canadian Rockies vacation in one direction then make sure to look for that option.

Alternatively, you can get the Via Rail Vancouver to Jasper . This scenic train ride takes you past beautiful scenery and into the Rocky Mountains.

The train from Vancouver to Jasper is not the cheapest and doesn’t always run on time, but it’s a great option if you don’t want to drive.

You can also get the Jasper to Vancouver train if you’ve flown to Calgary and then travelled on to Jasper.

National Park entrance fee

You need to pay for every day you spend in a National Park. You’ll pass a booth upon entering Jasper if you follow this itinerary. If you enter from a different way you can purchase a pass at a visitors’ centre. You must display this on your dashboard at all times.

If you’re spending 7 days in the National Parks and there are 2 or more of you then the best deal is to get the Group Parks Pass for $136.40.

Where to stay in Banff and Jasper

Hotels in Banff and Jasper are EXPENSIVE. Especially during the summer months when let’s face it, is probably when you’re going to want to go since the beautiful aqua lakes are covered under snow in winter and it’s bloody freezing.

I’ve listed a few suggestions for each stage of the journey below for camping, budget, mid-range and luxury options.

Hotels & Hostels in Banff & Jasper

Hostels are your best bet if you’re planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies on a budget.

Even then they’re not the cheapest and I don’t know about you but I don’t really fancy staying in a 28-person dormitory… I guess you’re not going to be spending too much time inside though!

If you do want to stay in hotels while you’re road-tripping through Banff and Jasper then check out Booking.com . They’re my go-to site whenever I’m beginning my hotel search for an upcoming trip.

To find cheaper hostels or hotels in Jasper and Banff, I’d recommend widening your search to include towns outside of the National Parks. This will mean you’re driving more in the morning and evenings but it might help you cut costs a little!

Some suggestions are Golden in BC and Canmore just outside of Banff.

Read more: Banff vs Canmore? Should you stay in Banff or Canmore ?

Camping in Banff and Jasper

Campsites in Banff and Jasper fill up super, super quick. Canadians love to camp and so do many people visiting these National Parks.

If you’re visiting in the summer months (June – August) then make sure you plan your trip about 3 months in advance to secure a camping spot.

You may get lucky and find a camping place at some campsites but usually, everything will be booked already, especially over weekends.

• To book a campsite in BC use the BC Parks Reservation site
• For campsite bookings in National Parks use the  Parks Canada Reservation Website
• All bookings in Alberta (outside of national parks boundaries) can be made on the  Alberta Parks Reservation Website

Overflow camping in Banff and Jasper

Fortunately, there are other camping options in Banff and Jasper when the campsites are fully booked.

Banff, Jasper and the Ice Fields Parkway have overflow campsites.

They open only when the other campsites are full. At these, you are permitted to sleep inside your vehicle.

These are usually just car parks and so tents are not allowed with the exception of the Snaring Overflow in Jasper.

Take a look at this post for all the camping options in Banff and Jasper National Parks.

Please note: It is illegal to sleep overnight in your vehicle or camp outside of a designated camping spot. You will be asked to move and/or fined if found doing this.

This is for your own safety, the safety of the wildlife and the protection of the parks. You might be responsible and follow Leave No Trace Principles but that doesn’t mean everyone does. 

Itinerary for a 7-day road trip to Banff & Jasper from Vancouver

Use this itinerary for your Vancouver to Jasper, Banff to Vancouver road trip. It’s full of the best hikes and things to see so use it to put together your own Vancouver to Banff itinerary. There are posts about each place we visited which include more detail too.

This road trip from Vancouver to Banff and Jasper is a Canadian bucket list item and I’d highly recommend it!

Vancouver to Wells Gray Provincial Park

Whilst you could just go straight from Vancouver to Jasper (or Jasper to Vancouver if you’re coming from Calgary), it’s well worth making a stop at Wells Gray Provincial Park.

Wells Gray Provincial Park has been on my radar for quite a while. It’s known for its waterfalls or which there are 39 named (and plenty that aren’t!). It’s 5,250 square kilometres of alpine wilderness created by volcanoes and carved by glaciers.

We stopped by for just a few hours to check out two of the most well-known waterfalls; Helmecken and Spahats. These are both easy to drive to and require just a short walk from the parking lots.

Directions: From Vancouver take Hwy 1/Trans Canada to Hope and then switch to Route 5 North to Clearwater via Kamloops.

If you’re looking for a Vancouver and Banff itinerary scroll on down!

Where to stay in Wells Gray Provincial Park

• Mid-range;  Highly recommended B&B inside Wells Gray

Wells Gray to Jasper

It wouldn’t be a Vancouver to Jasper road trip without this next stop. It’s time to hit your first National Park of the trip: Jasper!

On the journey from Wells Gray to Jasper, you’ll pass the border BC and Alberta and you’ll also need to remember to put your clocks one hour forward.

On the way to Jasper, you’ll also pass through Mt Robson Provincial Park.

We ended up driving through here in the dark so missed out on seeing Mt Robson (BC’s highest peak) but if you’re spending a little longer doing your road trip you might want to spend a day or two here.

Jasper Highlights

There are plenty of hikes and things to see and do in Jasper. I have a full post about everything we did in Jasper National Park and a few more additional suggestions here.

However, these are my top three suggestions for things to do on a road trip to Jasper.

Read about more of the best things to do in Jasper National Park

Pyramid Lake

We loved Pyramid Lake and the backdrop of Pyramid Mountain. Go here early in the morning and take a stroll, hire a canoe or kayak if you plan to stay longer.

The Miette Hot Springs

The Miette Hot Springs are a little bit more like a swimming pool than these hot springs in BC but they’re a great place to relax after a busy day of exploring.

I’d recommend getting there mid-afternoon as by late afternoon/early evening there was a queue outside to get in.

There are two hot pools and then a couple of cold pools too. Towels and swimsuits can be rented there.

Canoeing/Kayaking on Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake is pretty famous. There’s plenty of hiking to be done around the lake or you can hire a canoe or kayak and explore from the water.

If you’re really keen then plan a multi-day kayaking trip down to Spirit Island and back. Just bear in mind you’ll have to book this campsite about 3 months in advance.

Where to stay in Jasper

Check out my full guide to the best places to stay in Jasper.

• Best budget accommodation in Jasper: HI Hostel Downtown Jasper
• Best hotel in Jasper: Whistler’s Inn
• Best luxury accommodations in Jasper National Park: Pyramid Lake Resort
• Best place for camping in Jasper: Snaring Campground, Jasper
• Best cabins in Jasper: Miette Mountain Cabin

Jasper to Icefields Parkway

Getting from Jasper to Banff means driving the incredible Icefields Parkway. The Jasper to Banff drive along the Icefields Parkway has to be one of the most scenic drives in the world.

Honestly, it’s so, so beautiful. You’re flanked by mountains on either side, lakes, glaciers and forests. Take your time and don’t rush this drive.

The distance from Banff to Jasper is 288km. The Jasper to Banff driving time is around 3.5 hours if you do it in one go, but you’ll want to stop and take in the sights so I recommend taking at least two days to explore the Icefields Parkway.

It’s slightly shorter from Jasper to Lake Louise (232km)  which is the next town you’ll come to. Take your time and enjoy the stretch of road between Jasper and Lake Louise.

There are a lot of places to stop along the way but here are my three highlights for your Icefields Parkway road trip.

Top things to do on the Icefields Parkway

There’s more to do than you first realise along the Icefields Parkway. From hiking to beautiful sites and learning about the glaciers, below are a few highlights!

Get the low-down on the best places to stop on the Icefields Parkway

The Athabasca Glacier

The Athabasca Glacier is probably something you’ve heard about before your road trip to Banff and Jasper . This massive glacier is still easy to see although it’s receded a lot over the years. Thom visited around 10 years ago and says there’s a noticeable difference.

Book a trip to get up close with the glacier here.

Chances are you’ve seen plenty of photos of this lake. And yes, it really is that blue! The car park is always super busy here but you should be able to find a space somewhere.

From there is just a quick 10-minute walk on a gentle incline until you get to the viewing point for the lake.

Athabasca Falls

There are many waterfalls in Banff, Jasper and Yoho National Parks but the Athabasca Falls are up there with the most impressive.

Where to stay along the Icefields Parkway

There isn’t a whole lot of accommodation choice along the Icefields Parkway which is why camping, or hiring a camper van is such a good idea. However, I’ve picked out some of the best hotels between Banff and Jasper below that should help if you’re looking for where to stay between Banff and Jasper.

• Camping: The overflow car park at the Icefields Centre. It’s just a car park but you’re allowed to overnight here in your vehicle and there are incredible views!
• Hotels: Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge  | Glacier View Inn | The Crossing Resort

Lake Louise

The Icefields Parkway finishes up in Lake Louise which was incredibly busy when we visited in early August. As the woman at the tourism office said it’s the place that’s on all the brochures for The Rockies and it’s a popular entrance point to Banff. It’s also an easy, though long, drive from both Vancouver to Lake Louise, and Calgary to Lake Louise.

If you’re visiting in the summer there are a few things you’ll need to know to make sure you have an enjoyable experience despite the insane amount of people and traffic. Take a look at this post to find out.

Despite how busy it is, the surrounding areas and the lake of Lake Louise can’t be missed.

Lake Louise to Banff then Yoho or Lake Louise and Yoho to Banff?

You’ll notice that Yoho National Park and Lake Louise are super close to each other (about 10-minute drive). Yoho National Park is in British Columbia and Lake Louise forms part of Banff in Alberta.

It’s up to you whether you decide to spend longer in Lake Louise and combine the below suggestions with those later on in this post with Yoho.

We crossed the border during our first day in Lake Louise to do a hike in Yoho. Then we spent a day exploring Yoho on our way back to Vancouver  after we’d been to Banff. The choice is yours!

Best things to do in Lake Louise

I’ve picked out the top few things you absolutely  can’t miss in Lake Louise.

For more things to do in Lake Louise & Banff take a look here. 

Visit Moraine Lake

Despite the fact we had to wake up at 5.30am in order to get a parking space at Moraine Lake (and before they close the road to all traffic other than the shuttle bus), Moraine Lake was totally worth it. These days, you’ll have to get there even earlier!

The light at sunrise catches the top of the mountains and reflects in the water which is very pretty.

But perhaps the best thing about this was watching some guy try and cross the log pile too fast and fall splat on his face several times. He was fine but it was funny.

Take your time and realise that the reason there is a queue to cross over is that there are definitely easier logs to cross than others!

As of 2023, you can no longer drive to Moraine Lake . The only way to get to Moraine Lake for sunrise is to either take an expensive taxi, cycle the 25km round trip OR ride with the Moraine Lake Bus Company .

The Moraine Lake Bus Company is the only company offering sunrise shuttles to Moraine Lake. Prices start at $35 per adult and $25 per child and the shuttles run from 4 am (arriving at Moraine Lake at 4.35 am) to 6.20 pm.

If you want to see Moraine Lake at sunrise, this is definitely the most affordable way!

Book your tickets to Moraine Lake here.

Parks Canada also offer shuttle buses to Moraine Lake, but these don’t start until 6.30 am and so miss the sunrise.

See Lake Louise

Lake Louise is another gorgeous Lake that is flanked by the Fairmont Hotel and mountains. You can take a canoe out on the lake or just admire it from the shorelines.

If you’re visiting in summer be aware that the parking lot is usually full by 8 am.

Do some hikes around Lake Louise

Personally, I think the best way to see Lake Louise is to get up high! There are many popular hikes in this area with the busiest being the hike to the Agnes Lake Tea House.

If you do this hike then do it early! Not only will you avoid all the crowds on the trail but you’re also more likely to get a seat at the Tea House.

From here there are ways to extend your hike. You could take the Plain of the 6 Glaciers, climb up to Little and Big Beehive, or do a scramble to the top of Devil’s Thumb which is what we opted for.

Here are 14 of the best hikes to do in and around Lake Louise

Where to stay in Lake Louise

• Camping: There’s an overflow car park where you can camp in your vehicle just outside of Lake Louise. It’s also the overflow car park for during the day when the lakes and town are full. If you’re organised, then book in advance here.

Lake Louise to Banff

Continue your Canadian Rockies tour from Vancouver by making the shortish drive from Lake Louise to Banff. There are two drives you can take down to Banff, there’s the TransCanada highway, or the more picturesque Bow Valley Parkway.

I’d recommend doing the Bow Valley Parkway at least one way. Even though it was super smokey in Banff when we visited and we pretty much couldn’t see anything, it’s just a nicer, calmer road to drive.

The Bow Valley Parkway is closed from March 1st to June 25th between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m . This is to ensure the area remains a safe and good environment for the wildlife there.

Top 3 for your Banff itinerary

Here are the top three things to do in Banff during your Banff and Vancouver trip. We didn’t end up doing the cable car ride due to the smoke, but the lakes and Johnston Canyon were beautiful despite the smoke and crowds!

You’ll see you’ll have a great holiday even if only doing the road trip from Vancouver to Banff and back.

Read this post for more things to do in Banff National Park! 

Visit Johnston Canyon

This canyon was absolutely packed when we visited. I’ve never had to queue up for 20 minutes to get a glimpse of a waterfall (and I hope I never have to again).

If you want to visit the canyon then be prepared for it to be super busy, or go early or late to get fewer crowds.

Having said that the canyon is a pretty area and the lower Banff falls , in particular, were a great colour.

Visit the lakes

There are plenty of lakes in Banff. They might not be the same aqua blue as Lake Louise or Peyto Lake, but they’re pretty nonetheless. We spent a relaxing few hours on the shores of Lake Minnewanka and took the kayaks out on Two Jack Lake.

Take the Banff Gondola

This is something we didn’t do on our first visit to Banff since the mountains were covered in smoke and there wouldn’t have been a view.

However, when we did return, we rode up the gondola and got to enjoy the beautiful views up on Sulphur Mountain. I highly recommend adding the gondola, and these Banff activities , to your list of things to do in Banff!

You can book Banff sightseeing tickets incl. the gondola here.

Where to stay in Banff

• Camping: Banff has some massive campsites. We got lucky and got a spot at Tunnel Mountain Village I just a week before our trip. I’m assuming this was because someone else had cancelled. The campsite is huge but your spot will still feel relatively private which is nice. Book all Banff campsites here .

Banff National Park to Yoho National Park

While you could go straight back from Banff to Vancouver, doing so means you miss out on the beautiful Yoho National Park.

For me, Yoho National Park was up there with Jasper for my favourite part of our week road trip in the Canadian Rockies. It’s definitely somewhere I’m planning to visit again.

It’s not a huge park but it’s full of peaks to tackle (we managed to tick off one!); 28 of them are over 3,000 metres in height!

Best things to do in Yoho National Park

Check out this longer list of the best things to do in Yoho National Park.

Takakkaw Falls

Takakkaw Falls is about 15km off the main road in Yoho National Park. Its highest point is 380 metres which makes it the 2nd tallest waterfall in Canada. You can follow the path near the base of the waterfall and enjoy a cooling spray too.

Climb Paget Peak

This was the hike we did after we arrived in Lake Louise and found out there wasn’t hope in hell of getting a parking spot for the rest of the day.

So off we drove to Yoho (about 15 minutes) and took on Paget Peak!

There’s a fire lookout about 1 hour into this hike but the real fun comes from when you tackle scramble to the peak. Don’t be fooled by the false peak, you’ll be climbing for at least 1.5 hours more from the fire outlook!

Emerald Lake

Another insta-famous spot in the Canadian Rockies is Emerald Lake. Again, this is a super busy spot but if you go for a walk around the lake then you’ll escape most of the crowds.

Where to stay in Yoho

Accommodation in Yoho is pretty scarce. Given that it’s so close to Lake Louise you might want to base yourself there or in Golden.

Yoho National Park to Vancouver

Upon leaving Yoho National Park it’s a pretty long drive back to Vancouver (about 8 hours). You just take the BC-5 S and Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 W all the way back!

If you’re looking for a way to break up the journey take a look below. This also works if you’re doing a Vancouver to Banff drive, or Banff to Vancouver and skipping Yoho (which I don’t think you should do!).

Where to stop between Yoho National Park and Vancouver

Golden is one of my favourite BC Mountain Towns . It’s got such a chilled-out vibe, great places to eat and it’s surrounded by such beautiful scenery.

It’s a great place to stay too if you’re looking for somewhere cheaper to stay near Banff or Yoho.

Glacier National Park

You’ll pass through Glacier National Park on the drive home. Again, we couldn’t see much on our first visit due to smoke but having returned, I can confirm it’s beautiful!

It has deep valleys, ancient forests and alpine meadows to explore.

Check out the Giant Cedars Boardwalk and Rogers Pass!

Mt. Revelstoke National Park

We’ve been through Revelstoke many a time now both in the winter and the summer. Nearby is Mt Revelstoke National Park which is incredible!

Mount Revelstoke is the only mountain in the national park system that you can summit just a short walk from your car! That’s an easy peak to bag!

Kamloops is great for outdoor lovers. There are trails for every level and the same goes for mountain biking.

If you fancy some lake time then head to one of the lakes nearby and enjoy swimming, kayaking, SUP boarding, waterskiing, or wakeboarding and some of the pretty Kamloops waterfalls.

For more details on the Vancouver to Kamloops drive, I’ve got a full road trip itinerary.

Hope, Chilliwack & The Fraser Valley

The Fraser Valley is a great place to stop either on the way to the Canadian Rockies or the way back. I’ve visited various places there over the year and a bit we’ve lived in Vancouver. I’d recommend checking out Chilliwack Lake and some of the breweries in Chilliwack, Jones Lake if you have a 4×4, and Bridal Veil Falls just east of Chilliwack.

Final thoughts on the drive from Vancouver to Banff

This Banff Vancouver road trip guide includes everything you need to know to plan a road trip Vancouver to Banff or the other way around.

This is one of the quintessential BC road trips with others being BC Hot Springs Circle Route in the east of the province, the Vancouver to Whistler drive on the Sea to Sky, and the Kamloops to Whistler stops via hwy 99.

Last Updated on June 21, 2023 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s what to expect:

Road trip itinerary at a glance

Need to know info.

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

Camping details

• Alternative itineraries

More planning resources

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

14 day Western Canada road trip overview

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Western Canada road trip map

Use the below Google Map for orientation and planning.

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

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

Day by day road trip guide

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

Vancouver (Day 1)

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

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

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

Best things to do in Vancouver

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

Where to stay in Vancouver

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

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

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

Vancouver to Whistler (Day 2)

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

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

Best things to do between Vancouver and Whistler

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

Where to stay in Whistler

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

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

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

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

Whistler (Day 3)

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

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

Best things to do in Whistler

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

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

Whistler to Kamloops (Day 4)

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

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

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

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

Best things to do between Whistler and Kamloops

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

Where to stay in Kamloops

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kamloops to Valemount (Day 5)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to stay in Valemount

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

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

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

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

Valemount to Jasper (Day 6)

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

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

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

Best things to do between Valemount and Jasper

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

Where to stay in Jasper

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

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

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

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

Jasper (Day 7)

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

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

Best things to do in Jasper

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

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

Jasper to Banff (Day 8)

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

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

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

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

Best things to do between Jasper and Banff

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

Where to stay in Banff

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

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

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

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

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

Banff (day 9)

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

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

Best things to do in Banff

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

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

Banff (Day 10)

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

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

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

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

Best things to do at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

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

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

Banff to Golden (Day 11)

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

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

Best things to do between Banff and Golden

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

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

Where to stay in Golden

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

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

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

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

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

Golden to Revelstoke (Day 12)

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

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

Best things to do between Golden and Revelstoke

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

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

Where to stay in Revelstoke

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

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

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

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

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

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

Revelstoke to the Okanagan Valley (Day 13)

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best things to do between Revelstoke and the Okanagan Valley

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

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

Where to stay in the Okanagan Valley

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

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

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

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

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

Okanagan Valley to Vancouver (Day 14)

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

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

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

Best things to do between Kelowna/Vernon and Vancouver

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

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

Best things to do between Penticton and Vancouver

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Western Canada road trip: Top tips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Alternative road trip itineraries

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

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

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

Two-week itinerary with Vancouver Island

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Two week itinerary without Jasper and Wells Gray Provincial Park

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

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

This adapted itinerary would look like this:

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

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

Three-week Western Canada road trip itinerary

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

I would suggest an itinerary like this:

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

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

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

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

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

The Best Okanagan Valley Wineries: A Local’s Guide

What To Do in Wells Gray Provincial Park, British Columbia

Complete Guide to BC Parks Camping Reservations

How to Stay Safe in the Outdoors

Bear Safety in Canada: What You Need to Know

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

Monday 19th of February 2024

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

Tuesday 20th of February 2024

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

Monday 21st of August 2023

Thanks a lot for your detailed and very helpful tips !

we just had a family road trip for 2 weeks. We did not exactly follow your suggestions, but it was a great source of inspiration for our trip

thank you very much !!

Wednesday 30th of August 2023

Thanks so much for letting me know Sven! Hope you had a fabulous trip.

10 Road Trip Itineraries In Canada That Will Leave You Wanting More Vacation Days

• Canada offers breathtaking road trip experiences with stunning views of mountains, icefields, oceans, and forests, showcasing the country's natural beauty.
• The besr road trips in Canada provide unique perspectives on the world's second-largest country, from exploring national parks to scenic highways and charming towns.
• Tourists can embark on thrilling and beautiful road trips across Canada, whether it's driving along the Icefields Parkway, the Cabot Trail, the Sea to Sky Highway, or exploring the cowboy culture along the Cowboy Trail.

Driving across a country can be a perfect mode of travel for tourists who want to experience that country at its fullest. One of the best countries for road trips has to be Canada; with towering snow-capped mountains, lively coastal areas, and fertile plains, driving across Canada is sure to display the true beauty that this North American country offers.

Tourists don't need to only visit national parks to see the splendor of this land; even the highways in this region are gorgeous! Here, travelers can find out about Canada's top road trip itineraries and highways; each of these incredible Canadian road trips offers tourists a unique perspective on the world's second-largest country, from exploring the Columbia Icefield to the stunning forests of Nova Scotia. Discover why road-tripping is one of the most thrilling things to do in Canada with these scenic drives across this breathtaking North American nation.

Related: 10 Truly Unusual Experiences You Can Only Have At Banff National Park

Icefields Parkway

The first, and probably the most famous of Canada's road trips, is Icefields Parkway. Running from Lake Louise in Banff National Park (a superb winter destination) to the town of Jasper, this roadway is considered one of Canada's best scenic routes. It's considered the best for a reason: on either side of the highway are stunning views of mountains and the famous Columbia Icefield.

Visitors on this itinerary will start at the crystalline waters of Lake Louise. They can then head to the aquamarine Bow Lake and from there to the Weeping Wall, a series of thin-streamed waterfalls that cascade down the mountain, resembling tears. After that, visitors can head to the Columbia Icefield, which is the largest glacier in Canada outside the Arctic Circle.

From there, visitors can stand on the daunting Columbia Icefield Skywalk . This is an observation platform standing high in the mountains...whose floor is made of glass! Finally, visitors can head to Sunwapta Falls and Athabasca Falls to see some of Canada's most beautiful waterfalls before heading into the town of Jasper.

• Distance: 144 miles
• Notable stops: Lake Louise, Bow Lake, Weeping Wall, Columbia Icefield, Columbia Icefield Skywalk, Sunwapta Falls, Athabasca Falls, the town of Jasper

Cabot Trail

Nova Scotia's premier highway is the Cabot Trail, which consistently ranks among the best road trip itineraries in Canada. Although this area is commonly known as one of the most beautiful places in the world for fall foliage , it is still gorgeous at any time of year. Here, tourists will see stunning views of the North Atlantic Ocean, along with the deciduous forests of Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

After starting on the Trail, tourists can first head to Baddeck, an adorable village that was once the home of Alexander Graham Bell. Next, visitors should head to Ingonish Beach, a rocky, North Atlantic-style beach with stunning views of the ocean and the nearby cliffsides. Afterward, visitors can head to Beulach Ban Falls, a gorgeous hike with a giant waterfall and moss-covered rocks.

Visitors can then head to the fishing village of Pleasant Bay, where visitors can learn all about local whales through whale watching tours or through the Whale Interpretive Centre. Visitors can also stop at the local MacKenzie Mountain Look-Off, a lookout point where tourists have been known to spot whales. Finally, visitors can head to Inverness, where they can explore the local museums, beaches, and restaurants.

• Distance: 185 miles
• Notable stops: Baddeck, Ingonish Beach, Beulach Ban Falls, Pleasant Bay, MacKenzie Mountain Look-Off, Inverness (Nova Scotia)

Sea To Sky Highway

Starting in Vancouver, this highway is among the most scenic drives in Canada; it initially hugs the Strait of Georgia before heading up inland to Pemberton. The Sea to Sky Highway has an apt name as tourists start on the beautiful, rugged coast only to head up into the clouds of the mountains. Tourists here will be able to see all kinds of wildlife (like mountain goats!), beautiful waterfalls, and rugged peaks.

An itinerary for the Sea to Sky Highway usually looks something like this: First, tourists will begin in Vancouver, where they can explore the artistic features of this coastal city. Then, they can head to Horseshoe Bay to explore the harbor and eat delicious fish and chips. After that, a northbound drive will find them at the Sea to Sky Gondola, which has a viewing platform that allows tourists to see stunning vistas of the Howe Sound region. Then, the town of Squamish, where tourists can explore an abundance of mountain biking trails, is not far.

After staying or passing through Squamish, visitors will be able to see the westward-facing mountains of the Tantalus Range. A quick stop in Brackendale to see wintering Bald Eagles in November-February will be a great way to finish off the trip before entering Pemberton.

• Distance: 234 miles
• Notable stops: Vancouver, Horseshoe Bay, Sea to Sky Gondola, Howe Sound, mountain biking in Squamish, Tantalus Range, Brackendale to see Bald Eagles, Pemberton

Related: Seattle To Vancouver: 10 Things You'll Experience On The Scenic Cascades Train Route

The Cowboy Trail

The Rocky Mountain Foothills of Canada are best experienced on the Cowboy Trail, Canada's best road trip for the wild at heart. Set along Highway 22, this road will take tourists through gorgeous mountains, aspen forests, and blue rapids. Visitors along the way should be sure to stay at a local ranch for horseback riding for at least one of the days on their trip.

The Cowboy Trail officially starts near the US-Canadian border in the town of Lundbreck, Alberta. There, visitors should be sure to stop or camp at the Lundbreck Falls, a set of gorgeous waterfalls that crash into aquamarine water. After beginning there, tourists can head up north to explore Calgary and its epic attractions , where visitors can see the sights of the city from Calgary Tower or walk down Stephen Avenue.

After that, travelers can stop at Banff National Park if they so choose to see Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Visitors can also stop at the Historic Cochrane Ranche, a museum where tourists can learn about the history of ranching in this area (Calgary isn't known as "Cow Town" for nothing!).

Visitors interested in history can stop at the small town of Rocky Mountain House, where they can stop at the Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site to learn about the fur trade and the Indigenous Peoples of the region. Finally, tourists can end their trip in the town of Mayerthorpe.

• Distance: 356.7 miles
• Notable stops: Lundbreck, Lundbreck Falls, Calgary, Calgary Tower, Stephen Avenue, Banff National Park, Moraine Lake, Valley of the Ten Peaks, Historic Cochrane Ranche, Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site, Mayerthorpe

The Irish Loop

Newfoundland, on Canada's eastern coast, is the fourth-largest island in the nation, and the Irish Loop is one of the best ways to experience it. One of many different scenic road trips in Newfoundland , this 193.8-mile loop will take tourists along rugged coasts, over suspension bridges, through pine forests, and through incredible nature reserves.

Tourists can start anywhere on the loop, but the best starting place is the provincial capital of St. John's, where visitors will see buildings painted with bright primary colors and an impressive basilica. Visitors can then head to La Manche Provincial Park, where visitors can see (and swim near!) stunning white waterfalls, and nearby can see the La Manche Suspension Bridge.

After that, visitors can see the incredible rock formation of the Berry Head Sea Arch. Next, visitors can explore the Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where tourists can see stunning rock formations and ancient fossils. Afterward, tourists can head to St. Vincent's Beach, where they'll relax and whale watch atop gorgeous gray sand.

Finally, one can hike, canoe, and look for wildlife at the Avalon Wilderness Reserve.

• Distance: 193.8 miles
• Notable stops: St. John's, La Manche Provincial Park, Berry Head Sea Arch, Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve, St. Vincent's Beach, Avalon Wilderness Reserve

Inuvik-Aklavik Ice Road

One of the most incredible roads in Canada is the Inuvik-Aklavik Ice Road. There is truly nothing like this in the entire world; the road is made almost entirely of ice! It runs across the MacKenzie River and the various lakes between, starting at Aklavik and ending at Inuvik.

As it's made of ice, each year, the road has to be rebuilt during early winter. The road is in place until early April. Something interesting is that these towns are not connected by highway during the summertime and are only accessible to each other directly by air or canoe.

The window of time travelers can experience this road is getting shorter and shorter each year due to climate change. Speed limits on this road are also only 70 km (43.4 miles) per hour due to the road being made of ice.

Tourists can start their journey in the town of Inuvik, where they can explore the beautiful Jàk Territorial Park. After that, in the wintertime, they can set out along the ice road to the town of Aklavik for one of the most unique road experiences of their lives. Here, they can see stunning views of the frozen MacKenzie River. They should also scour the boreal forest for local wildlife, like caribou, moose, polar bears, and wolves.

The Ice Road is a sight in and of itself, but there aren't man-made stops between Aklavik and Inuvik, so visitors are encouraged to traverse this road as a detour from the Dempster Highway that runs through Inuvik all the way to the northern town of Tuktoyaktuk on the Beaufort Sea.

• Distance: 72 miles
• Notable stops and activities: Inuvik, MacKenzie River, exploring the Boreal Forest, wildlife-watching, Aklavik,

Dempster Highway

One of the most ambitious highways in Canada for tourists to journey on is the Dempster Highway. This highway starts 25 miles east of Dawson City in the Yukon and runs all the way up to the city of Tuktoyaktuk on the Arctic Ocean. Visitors here will be able to see many unique and inspiring sights, like the official landmark marking the latitude of the Arctic Circle. People will even be able to experience the Midnight Sun, with 24 hours of daylight in the summertime!

Tourists can start their journey in at Tombstone Territorial Park, where visitors can see stunning and jagged black mountains as they hike. They can then head to Two Moose Lake for moose watching and further to Engineer Creek to hunt for fossilized coral. Afterward, they can head to the town of Inuvik, where they can explore the beautiful Jàk Territorial Park.

After that, they can head north to the Pingo National Landmark, where tourists can see and learn about Pingos (natural hills made from ice cores). While on the road, visitors should look for a variety of bird species, Arctic foxes, wolves, and polar bears. Finally, tourists can end their journey at the ocean town of Tuktoyaktuk.

• Distance: 458.3 miles
• Notable stops: Tombstone Territorial Park, Two Moose Lake, Engineer Creek, Inuvik, Jàk Territorial Park, Pingo National Landmark, Tuktoyaktuk

Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island is famous for its rolling green hills, its glassy ocean harbors, its red rock shores, and its adorable lighthouses. Tourists will be enthralled by the many beaches and bright green hills of this region, which served as inspiration for the famous novel Anne of Green Gables.

A road trip along Prince Edward Island will begin at East Point Lighthouse, an adorable white lighthouse with a red roof that faces out into the North Atlantic. After that, visitors can head to Prince Edward Island National Park, where tourists will encounter beautiful beaches, woodlands, ponds, and wildlife.

After an afternoon of hiking, visitors can head to the Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish. This historic site was originally the home of Maud Montgomery's relatives and served as the setting for her groundbreaking book, Anne of Green Gables. Visitors can then head to the charming town of Summerside, a coastal boardwalk town with Instagrammable pastel buildings. Finally, tourists can end their tip-to-tip road trip at North Point Lightstation.

• Distance: 159 miles
• Notable stops: East Point Lighthouse, Prince Edward Island National Park, Green Gables Heritage Place, Cavendish, Summerside, North Point Lightstation

Related: These Are The 10 Best Beaches On Prince Edward Island

Coquihalla Highway

The Coquihalla Highway runs North-South from Vancouver to Edmonton. This route will take tourists through snowy mountain passes, through forested valleys, and along spooky caverns. After beginning their journey in the artsy city of Vancouver, tourists can head to the Cascade Falls and Suspension Bridge, where tourists can see a giant waterfall amid a temperate rainforest.

After this, tourists can visit Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park. Here, they can explore scenic trails lined with waterfalls and rushing rivers. This location is also famous for the Othello Tunnels, man-made tunnels from the 19th century that tourists can explore today. After exploring this park, tourists can head north to the Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area, where they can see towering granite mountain peaks.

Next, tourists should head to Jasper National Park. This park is truly impressive; camping here for a few days is well worth it! After that, visitors can head to Edmonton, Canada's Festival City.

• Distance: 719.5 miles
• Notable stops: Cascade Falls and Suspension Bridge, Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park, Othello Tunnels, Coquihalla Summit Recreation Area, Jasper National Park, Edmonton

Bay Of Fundy Coast

Between the provinces of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia is the Bay of Fundy, an estuary that leads into the Atlantic Ocean. This area is famous around the world for its unusually high tides and powerful ocean currents. With luck, tourists here should encounter a wide variety of sights and experiences, such as looking for North Atlantic right whales, seeing unique rock formations, and orange-rock beaches.

A Bay of Fundy Coast road trip starts in the coastal town of St. Andrews in New Brunswick. After stopping here, visitors should head to the City of Saint John, where visitors can see the Reversing Rapids. These rapids in the Saint John River collide with the strong tides of the bay, which creates the image of a reversal. After stopping here, visitors should head to Fundy National Park , where they can see more than 25 waterfalls and walk the Moosehorn Trail.

Next, tourists should head to the Hopewell Rocks, a unique series of rock formations formed by tidal erosion that characterize this region. Visitors can then head to Cape Chignecto Provincial Park to see old-growth forests and rugged cliffs facing the bay. After that, tourists should go to Blomidon Provincial Park to see a beach made up of orange sand underneath the shadow of red-rock cliffs.

Finally, a road trip along the Bay of Fundy ends in the town of Digby, where visitors can see an adorable ocean harbor.

• Distance: 110 miles
• Notable stops: St. Andrews (New Brunswick), City of Saint John, Reversing Rapids, Fundy National Park, Hopewell Rocks, Cape Cignecto Provincial Park, Blomidon Provincial Park, Digby

Related: 10 Best Tourist Attractions On The Bay Of Fundy Taking a road trip in Canada, whether tourists opt for the rolling green hills of Prince Edward Island or the tundra at the Arctic Circle, is something that should be on every adventurer's bucket list. There are miles and miles of untapped wilderness in this magnificent North American country to explore; all that's left is for tourists to pick their destination and hit the road to explore the most beautiful road trips in Canada!

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British Columbia , Canada , Road Trip Itineraries , United States , Washington

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Tips for a Seattle to Banff Drive

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

How Far is a Seattle to Banff Road Trip?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Can You Drive From Seattle to Banff in One Day?

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

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

Seattle to Banff Road Trip Map

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

Seattle to Banff Road Trip Itinerary

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

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

How to Drive From Seattle to Banff

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

Scenic Route

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

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

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

Fastest Route

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

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

Best Places to Stop on a Seattle to Banff

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

Route #1 Trans-Canada Highway

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

1. Seattle, Washington

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

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

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

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

2. North Cascades National Park, Washington

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

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

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

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

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

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

Get your free road trip packing list here!

3. Vancouver, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

4. Whistler, British Columbia

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

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

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

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

5. Kamloops, British Columbia

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

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

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

6. Revelstoke, British Columbia

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

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

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

7. Lake Louise and Banff National Park, Alberta

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

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

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

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

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

Route #2 I 90 E

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

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

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

2. Mount Rainier National Park, Washington

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

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

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

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

3. Spokane, Washington

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

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

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

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

4. Glacier National Park, Montana

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

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

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

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

5. Calgary, Alberta

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

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

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

6. Banff, Alberta

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

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

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

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

Seattle to Banff Itinerary (2 Routes)

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

Day 1: Seattle to Vancouver

Mileage: 4 hours, 32 minutes (232 miles) 

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Vancouver to Kamloops

Mileage: 3 hours, 56 minutes (219.8 miles)

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

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

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

Day 3: Kamloops to Banff

Mileage: 6 hours, 56 minutes (372 miles)

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1: Seattle to Spokane

Mileage: 4 hours, 8 minutes (279 miles)

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

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

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

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

Day 2: Spokane to Glacier National Park

Mileage: 4 hours, 39 minutes (272 miles)

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

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

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

Day 3: Glacier National Park to Banff

Mileage: 4 hours, 20 minutes (253 miles)

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

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

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

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

Marissa Pedersen

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

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