Canadian Rockies Road Trip: Ultimate 2-Week Guide

I’m from Western Canada, and I’ve driven between Calgary and Vancouver more times than I can count.

Along the way, I’ve explored so many hikes and seen some of the most beautiful places in the Canadian Rockies.

I created this guide to give you ideas for your own road trip.

Whether it’s your first time or you’re looking for fresh inspiration, these stops will help you plan an unforgettable adventure.

I’m so excited for you !!

What You Need to Know Before You Go

Best Time to Visit

The Canadian Rockies are most accessible from May to September, offering a variety of experiences depending on when you go.

Peak Season (July–August):

This is when the Rockies are at their busiest.

Trails are fully open, lakes are unfrozen, and the weather is warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and camping.

However, it’s also the most crowded and expensive time, so booking accommodations and tours well in advance is essential.

Shoulder Seasons (May–June, September):

These months offer fewer crowds and often more affordable prices.

In May and early June, you’ll still find snow on higher trails, and some areas may be inaccessible.

However, the wildflowers and rushing waterfalls make up for it.

September is perfect for cooler weather and golden larch trees, but some services and roads might begin to close later in the month.

Who Is This Road Trip Perfect For?

Perfect for people traveling in motorhomes, those who enjoy outdoor activities, or anyone who wants to see the most beautiful part of Canada.

Whether you like hiking, relaxing by a lake, or spotting wildlife, this trip has something for everyone.

Starting and Ending Points

Begin and end in Calgary, with key stops in Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, and Yoho National Park.

Length of the Trip

Two weeks is ideal for exploring the Canadian Rockies, but shorter options are also possible.

Logistics and Essentials

Vehicle Options

Campervan: Renting a campervan lets you travel with both transport and accommodation, perfect for an adventurous road trip. Companies like Motorhome Republic and Cruise Canada offer rentals that allow you to camp wherever you go.
Compact Car: A compact car is ideal for shorter trips or if you plan to stay in hotels along the way. Rentals like Discover Cars provide easy, affordable options for getting around the mountains.

National Park Access

The Parks Canada Discovery Pass grants unlimited entry to national parks across the Rockies for a year.

It’s great if you plan on visiting multiple parks and includes discounts on campsites and activities.

Campgrounds and Accommodations

Campsites: Book ahead, especially during peak season. Prices range from $25–$40 per night, but some luxury sites cost more.
Other Accommodations: If you prefer comfort, there are many options, from budget hostels to luxury resorts.
2024 Updates: Check Parks Canada for any new fees or trail restrictions.

Preparing for Your Trip

Stock Up: Calgary has plenty of grocery stores, like Safeway and Costco, to gather food and camping gear before heading into the mountains.
Outdoor Gear: Visit stores like MEC for quality hiking and camping equipment.

Two-Week Canadian Rockies Itinerary

Let’s dive into the day by day itinerary:

Day 1-4: Banff National Park

Drive from Calgary to Banff: 1.5 hours (130 km)

Key Activities: Ride the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain, relax at the Banff Hot Springs, drive the Bow Valley Parkway, and hike Johnston Canyon.
Photography Tip: Visit Morant’s Curve for incredible train and mountain views.
Accommodation Options: Choose from budget-friendly motels to luxury hotels like the Fairmont Banff Springs.

Day 4-6: Lake Louise

Drive from Banff to Lake Louise: 40 minutes (57 km)

Must-Sees: Visit Moraine Lake, hike to the Lake Agnes Teahouse, and explore the Plain of Six Glaciers.
Hiking Options: Trek the stunning Larch Valley trails.
Accommodation Choices: Options range from hostels to the iconic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Day 6-8: Icefields Parkway

Drive from Lake Louise to Icefields Parkway: 2.5 hours (144 km, stops included)

Sights to Visit: Admire Peyto Lake, walk on the Athabasca Glacier, and take photos at Sunwapta Falls.
Where to Stay: Options include rustic lodges or luxury stays like Glacier View Lodge.

Day 8-10: Jasper National Park

Drive from Icefields Parkway to Jasper: 1.5 hours (106 km)

Activities: Cruise Maligne Lake, hike the Sulphur Skyline Trail, and soak in Miette Hot Springs.
Accommodation: Jasper offers everything from cozy cabins to upscale lodges.

Day 10-12: Yoho National Park

Drive from Jasper to Yoho: 4.5 hours (290 km)

Highlights: See Takakkaw Falls, paddle on Emerald Lake, and explore the trails around Lake O’Hara (permit required).
Stay Options: Yoho has charming lodges like Emerald Lake Lodge, as well as budget-friendly hotels.

Day 12-14: Canmore & Kananaskis

Drive from Yoho to Canmore/Kananaskis: 1.5 hours (95 km)

Hiking: Explore Rawson Lake and Ha Ling Peak for scenic views.
Wildlife Spotting: Look for moose near Mount Engadine Lodge.
Where to Stay: Canmore has options from boutique hotels to cozy mountain chalets.

Tips for Customizing the Itinerary

What to Do With Less Time

If you have just 7 days, focus on the highlights—Banff, Jasper, and the Icefields Parkway.

If you can stretch to 9 days, include the smaller parks like Yoho and Kananaskis for a more rounded experience.

Extending Your Trip

If you have more time on your road trip or are looking to head further west, there are plenty of amazing destinations waiting to be explored beyond the Canadian Rockies!

Vancouver Island: Just a ferry ride away from Vancouver, this island offers stunning coastal views, whale watching, and charming small towns like Victoria. If you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, hiking in Strathcona Provincial Park or kayaking around Tofino should be on your list.
Whistler: North of Vancouver, Whistler is not just a ski resort but also a summer haven with activities like hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining. You can visit the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for spectacular views, or spend time exploring the village’s boutiques and restaurants.
Extra Hikes: Trails like Larch Valley (near Lake Louise) or Sulphur Skyline (in Jasper) provide unforgettable experiences and panoramic views.

The Canadian Rockies are full of amazing sights and experiences.

I hope this guide helps you plan a trip that you’ll always remember.

From stunning mountains to peaceful lakes and fun towns, there’s so much to see.

If you’ve done this drive or have a favorite spot, let me know—I’d love to hear about it and share in the adventure!