Planning an Epic Road Trip Across West Canada
Imagine seeing snow for the first time as you're driving from the city to the mountains, jamming to the latest hit music with your friends, and snacking on Tim Hortons donuts and hot chocolate. That’s exactly what our Canada road trip looked like as we journeyed from Vancouver to the Rockies!
If you're dreaming of a Western Canada adventure just like that, this 12-day road trip itinerary will guide you through some of the most breathtaking and popular destinations. From Vancouver’s vibrant coast to the majestic Rockies in Jasper and Banff, you’ll experience the best of the region’s natural beauty and outdoor adventure!
Weather in Canada
Jasper National Park. Credits to: onepony from Getty Images
Canada's seasons vary drastically, with each season offering different sights!
- Spring (April to May): Perfect for outdoor adventures, hiking, and city exploration, with mild weather and fewer crowds.
- Summer (June to August): Warmer weather, ideal for exploring the national parks and enjoying outdoor activities, though it’s also the busiest season with more tourists!
- Autumn (September to November): A great time to witness stunning fall foliage and enjoy cooler temperatures without the summer crowds.
- Winter (December to March): While the cold can be intense, especially in the Rockies, it's perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and those seeking amazing snowy landscapes.
We went on our road trip in December (winter) and faced extreme weather, particularly in Jasper, where temperatures dropped to as low as -31°F (-35°C). While it felt like we were traveling through a winter wonderland, warmer months might offer easier driving conditions and full access to outdoor attractions.
That said, winter still provides an unforgettable and unique adventure for those up for the challenge!
Canada Road Trip Essentials
Before you hit the road, take note of these essentials:
- Travel documents: Ensure you have an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) or a visitor visa, depending on your nationality — more information here.
- International Driving Permit (IDP): Get an IDP from your home country before renting a car in Canada.
- To rent a car in Canada, you must be at least 21 years old and have a minimum of 12 months of driving experience. Note that a young driver surcharge applies to all drivers aged 21-24 years old.
- Get your car rental on Klook! There's a wide range of vehicles, including SUVs and vans — perfect for Canadian road trips
- In case of an emergency, always ensure you have a spare tire. It'll be good to have at least one person in your travel party who knows how to change it, as well as a first-aid kit and roadside emergency kit with essentials like food, water, and a flashlight.
- Stay connected with our Canada 4G eSIM for seamless data access
Driving in Canada
Credits to: YayaErnst from Getty Images Pro
Driving through Canada can be an incredible experience, but there are a few things to be aware of. First up, vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the roads are generally well maintained, with pickup trucks regularly clearing snow.
- Speed limits: Cities like Vancouver and Calgary generally have limits of 31 mph (50 km/h) or lower, with 37-43 mph (60-70 km/h) on major roads; towns like Jasper and Banff usually range from 19-31 mph (30-50 km/h) and highways typically have limits around 62 mph (100 km/h).
- Road closures: Always check road conditions before heading out. Use resources like DriveBC (British Columbia) and 511 Alberta (Alberta) for real-time updates.
- Driving in winter: If you're traveling during winter, ensure your car is equipped with winter tires, as they are mandatory in provinces like British Columbia and for driving in national parks. Klook offers the option to include winter tires with your car rental!
- Offline maps: Connectivity in mountainous and remote areas can be limited so it's best to download Google offline maps to navigate these regions without interruptions.
Day 1: Vancouver
Our journey started from Vancouver International Airport, a perfect gateway to begin our Western Canada road trip. Vancouver is known for its stunning natural beauty, with a backdrop of mountains that can be seen as soon as you land at the airport!
Once you arrive, pick up your pre-booked rental car on Klook, which offers a variety of car rental options to suit your travel needs, whether you're navigating city streets or exploring the rugged terrain ahead. We rented a five-seater Toyota RAV4, which was perfect for our group of three, along with four large suitcases and two cabin-size luggage.
Stanley Park Seawall
A visit to Vancouver wouldn’t be complete without a stroll or bike ride around the Stanley Park Seawall. This 6.25-mile (10 km) path winds along the edge of the park, offering gorgeous views of the North Shore Mountains and the city skyline.
Klook Tip: The Seawall has a one-way, counter-clockwise bike lane so keep an eye out for passing cyclists, skaters, and pedestrians!
Bonus: Stanley Park Bright Nights
Stanley Park Bright Nights!
During winter, Vancouver is packed with Christmas events, and Stanley Park's Bright Nights is one of them. We went in the evening and were blown away by the huge light displays — think glowing deer and candy houses everywhere!
There were so many lights, it was almost overwhelming (in a good way). There's also the Bright Nights train, which takes you through the park’s displays. You’ll need to grab tickets online, and you can get more info here!
Day 2: Vancouver
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Canyon lights lit up at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park during winter. Credits to: 2024 Capilano Suspension Bridge Park
Capilano Suspension Bridge Park is a must-visit, and it's only a short 15-minute drive from downtown Vancouver. The suspension bridge stretches 137 meters across and 70 meters above the Capilano River, offering stunning treetop walks and breathtaking views. We also decided to visit early in the day to beat the crowds.
Stepping onto the bridge was definitely a bit nerve-wracking at first — it wobbled slightly under the weight of so many people, but it's actually sturdier than it feels.
Grouse Mountain
After crossing the Capilano Suspension Bridge, we took a quick 10-minute drive over to Grouse Mountain. The ride up the Skyride cable car, which takes about 8 minutes, and climbs 1,100 meters above sea level, was an experience on its own — offering jaw-dropping views of the city, ocean, and surrounding mountains.
Since we visited in winter, we were treated to the sight of the snow-covered peaks. While on the mountain, we also stopped by the wildlife refuge for bear watching and were lucky enough to spot a couple of grizzlies!
Day 3: Vancouver
Granville Island
For food lovers, Granville Island is a must-visit. Originally an industrial area, it has transformed into one of Vancouver’s most popular spots for great eats and live performances. Fun fact: the island is actually a peninsula, not a true island!
The Keg Steakhouse + Bar
We felt a bit fancy so we headed over to The Keg Steakhouse + Bar for lunch. This restaurant is known for its slow-roasted prime rib that's well-marbled and juicy. One of us tried the vodka pasta (a bit heavy for lunch), while the rest of us enjoyed the perfectly cooked prime rib. We'd recommend the latter!
Where to eat in Vancouver
- JAPADOG: Known for its Japanese-inspired hot dogs
- Blue Water Cafe: Famous spot for fresh seafood
- The Keg Steakhouse + Bar: Get the steak, specifically prime ribs
Where to stay in Vancouver
Shangri-La hotel, Vancouver
- Budget: YWCA Hotel
- Mid-range: EXchange Hotel Vancouver
- High-end: Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver
Day 4: Kamloops
Distance: 220 miles / 355 km Drive Duration: ~4 hours
Kamloops Lake Lookout. Credits to: james_mccracken from Getty Images
After spending a few days in Vancouver, hit the road for a scenic 4-hour drive to Kamloops along the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1). Kamloops is a major city roughly halfway between Vancouver and Jasper, making it the most direct route to Jasper.
Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park
Credits to: Tobias Hort-Giess via Unsplash
If you're feeling tired from the drive, there's the option to stop and go on a short hike at Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park — about a 1.5-hour drive from central Vancouver.
A short, easy hike leads to a stunning 60-meter waterfall cascading down a sheer rock face, creating a mist that looks like a bridal veil. This was the first waterfall we saw during our trip, and we couldn't resist staying longer to marvel at it.
Hope
Hope Mcdonald's
Just 30 minutes after leaving Bridal Veil Falls, we made a quick stop in the small town of Hope for lunch at McDonald's. There, we tried a cream cheese bagel for the first time — and honestly, it was life-changing. This was also the first time we saw snowfall on the trip!
Where to eat in Kamloops
- Red Beard Cafe: Known for its 18 Taps of rotating Craft Beer + Cider
- Hello Toast: Popular brunch spot that offers exceptional Eggs Benedict
Where to stay in Kamloops
Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops
- Budget: Scott's Inn and Suites
- Mid-range: Holiday Inn Express Kamloops, an IHG Hotel
- High-end: Delta Hotels by Marriott Kamloops
Day 5: Jasper
Distance: 280 miles / 450 km Drive Duration: ~4.5-5 hours
Jasper National Park. Credits to: onepony from Getty Images
After resting in Kamloops, set off in the morning and head north on Highway 5 (Yellowhead Highway) towards Jasper, taking in the beautiful rivers and mountain views along the way. Fun fact: Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies!
Once you arrive, don't forget to check the trail conditions and weather report before heading out on any hikes — it’s always good to be dressed for whatever nature throws at you.
Finns Creek Provincial Park
Finn creek
On your way to Jasper, pass by Finns Creek Provincial Park, a beautiful spot worth stopping at. You'll be greeted by snow-capped mountains and thick spruce and pine forests, making it an ideal place to step out, stretch your legs, and breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Blue River
Blue River
After a 20-minute drive, you'll pass through the Blue River area. We made a quick stop to take in the landscapes and stunning views. Even though the scenery might look similar, each stretch of road offers unique mountain views — images we still vividly remember even a year later!
Day 6: Jasper
Maligne Lake and Spirit Island
Credits to: Unsplash
After a well-deserved rest, spend your first full day in Jasper with a visit to Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies! In the winter, the lake transforms into a serene, snowy landscape.
While you won’t see the clear, turquoise waters of the warmer months, the spectacular snow-covered scenery and the iconic Spirit Island still make it a must-see spot.
Maligne Canyon
Hiking at Maligne Canyon was easily the highlight of our trip. This stunning limestone gorge, carved by the Maligne River over thousands of years, stretches 50 meters deep and 1.5 kilometers long.
Tackling the trail at -4°F (-20°C) made for an unforgettable experience as we followed the popular one-way route from First Bridge to Fourth Bridge.
Sliding down the Maligne Canyon Trail
Despite the freezing temperatures, it was totally worth it — we saw a few frozen waterfalls and even spotted one still flowing! The slippery ground made walking tricky, so we ended up sliding down a few slopes as well.
We hiked back to the upper parking lot after about two hours because the icy conditions made the trail quite challenging. Our hair and lashes even froze, which was incredibly surreal.
Klook Tip: Trail conditions can vary by season, ranging from icy to muddy. To prevent slipping or falling, we recommend you use ice cleats or spikes in these conditions, which you can find at outdoor gear shops in Downtown Jasper!
Day 7: Jasper
Marmot Basin
A trip to Jasper National Park wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Marmot Basin. Nestled in the heart of the park, this ski destination offers breathtaking alpine scenery and is open for skiing from mid-November to early May.
Marmot Basin chairlifts
Although we faced extreme weather and couldn’t hit the slopes, we still enjoyed the stunning views of the chairlifts and mountains!
Lunch at Loulou's Breakfast & Pizzeria
Loulou's Breakfast & Pizzeria
Indulge in specialty pizzas and poutine at Loulou's Breakfast & Pizzeria. For those unfamiliar, poutine is Canada's national dish, made of french fries and topped with cheese curds and brown gravy. During our visit, we enjoyed a flavorful beef and onion pizza along with honey butter wings. If you’re stopping by, definitely give the pizzas a try!
Spot Jasper's Wildlife
Elks spotted in Jasper National Park
During our drive, we were lucky to catch glimpses of the park's incredible wildlife. Elks and deer were frequent sightings, often spotted grazing by the roadside.
Make sure to pull over for a short break to admire them up close (from a safe distance, of course)! It was one of the highlights of our trip, and the opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat made the trip extra memorable.
Where to eat in Jasper
- The Raven Bistro: Offers Mediterranean-Canadian fusion food
- Bear's Paw Bakery: Well-known for its cinnamon buns
- Loulou's Breakfast & Pizzeria: Specialises in poutine and pizza
Where to stay in Jasper
Enjoy this gorgeous view at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
- Budget: Whistler's Inn
- Mid-range: Jasper Inn & Suites by INNhotels
- High-end: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Day 8: Banff
Distance: 180 miles / 290 km Drive Duration: ~4-5 hours
Credits to: RuslanKaln from Getty Images
Continue your journey in the Rockies as you drive along the Icefields Parkway, known for its jaw-dropping views. This route connects Jasper to Banff National Park, so get ready for more incredible sights along the way! Banff is Canada’s oldest national park dating back to 1885, and is known for its crystal-clear lakes and rugged mountain landscapes.
Like in Jasper, be sure to check Banff National Park’s trail conditions and weather before setting out on any hikes!
Peyto Lake
Credits to: Filipe Freitas via Unsplash
Can you spot the shape of a wolf’s head in the lake? It took us a while to notice it in real life! As you drive along Icefields Parkway, you’ll come across Peyto Lake, known for its striking blue-green color from glacial rock particles reflecting sunlight.
This lake is often associated with the shape of a wolf's head, which has become a special symbol of the area. Even though the lake was frozen in winter, we still made a stop at the Peyto Lake Upper Viewpoint to snap some photos and zoom in on that distinctive wolf’s head shape.
Bow Lake
Credits to: Louis Paulin via Unsplash
Just a 5-minute drive from Peyto Lake, you'll find Bow Lake, one of the larger lakes in Banff National Park. We made a quick stop at the Bow Lake Viewpoint along the road. Like Peyto Lake, it was frozen during our visit, but the lake's vibrant blue color and the impressive Bow Glacier in the background were still breathtaking.
Day 9: Banff
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is one of the most famous lakes in the Canadian Rockies — we'd let the pictures do the talking. In summer, its blue glacial waters shine vibrantly against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, with many visitors canoeing.
Our visit in winter revealed a completely different side of the lake. Frozen over and blanketed in snow, it presented an icy landscape rather than the vibrant blue we’d heard about. We enjoyed a peaceful stroll along the lakeshore, taking in the quiet beauty of the lake. Although we missed out on the iconic blue waters, experiencing Lake Louise in its snowy, frozen state was beautiful in its own way.
Lake Louise Ski Resort
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Lake Louise Ski Resort is a top pick for skiing and snowboarding in the winter.
We rented skis and thick winter coats from the resort and even booked a 2-hour private lesson with an instructor. He taught us all the basics of skiing, and with his help, we managed to ski down the slopes a few times without falling — though we were definitely sweating under those thick layers! For updated rates on rentals, lift tickets, and lessons, you can check out the Lake Louise Ski Resort official website.
Day 10: Banff
Banff Gondola Ride
Get your Banff Gondola Ride tickets and take in the incredible views of the Rockies from above! As you ride up Sulphur Mountain, you'll be able to catch some seriously stunning views. The 8-minute trip gets you to 2,281 meters, where you can trek along the trails while admiring the views.
Klook Tip: The gondolas aren’t heated, so be sure to bundle up to stay warm while you enjoy the ride!
Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre
If you're up for more outdoor fun, ice skating is a great option! We went to the Fenlands Banff Recreation Centre and rented skates for about CA$13 (December 2022 prices). This rental fee also includes entry to the indoor rink and outdoor skating path.
We started off at the indoor rink, which helped us get our balance. Once we felt more confident, we moved to the spacious outdoor skating path located right outside the Recreation Centre, where we could skate with beautiful mountain views in the background.
It was a little daunting at first—especially since we were all pretty new to skating—but the skate assists indoors helped us feel ready for the more uneven ice outside. Despite falling several times, it turned out to be a really fun experience!
Where to eat in Banff
Bear Street Tavern Credits to: Banff.com
- Bear Street Tavern: Known for its signature pizzas
- The Maple Leaf Grill & Lounge: Offers Canadian-inspired dishes including Alberta beef
- The Bison Restaurant: Famous for its locally sourced, game meats and Alberta-inspired cuisine
Where to stay in Banff
Fairmont Banff Springs
- Mid-range: Brewster Mountain Lodge
- High-end: Fairmont Banff Springs
Day 11: Calgary
Distance: 80 miles / 130 km Drive Duration: ~1.5-2 hours
Credits to: benedek from Getty Images Signature
After a scenic two-hour drive, you’ll arrive in Calgary, Alberta's largest city for the final leg of your adventure. This city is also famous for hosting the 1988 Winter Olympics!
Calgary Zoo
Credits to: Ansel Huang via Unsplash
If you're an animal lover, the Calgary Zoo is a must-visit. It’s one of Canada’s most visited zoos, and for good reason.
We spent a day exploring and were blown away by the variety of animals, including wolves and penguins. The zoo is actually one of the oldest in the area, established in 1908, and is home to many native Canadian species you won’t find anywhere else, like snowy owls and bears!
Day 12: Calgary
Calgary Tower
Credits to: Dennis Mita via Unsplash
For the best views of Calgary, head up to the Calgary Tower. Standing at 191 meters, the tower’s observation deck gives you panoramic views of the entire city.
If you're feeling daring, try stepping onto the glass floor — it’s a wild experience looking straight down at the streets below! It definitely made our hearts drop. Tickets to the tower are around CA$22 for adults and CA$10 for kids.
Lunch at Ten Foot Henry
Wrap up your Canadian adventure with a delicious lunch at Ten Foot Henry, famous for its vegetable-focused menu!
During our visit, we had the hamachi tiradito, seared scallops, and spring salmon. We recommend trying the seared scallops which tasted sweet (and almost decadent)! The restaurant has an open kitchen, where you can also watch the chefs cook up your meal.
Where to eat in Calgary
- Ten Foot Henry: Known for its fresh, vegetable-focused dishes
- Sky 360: Offers stunning 360-degree views of Calgary
- River Café: Famous for its award-winning, locally sourced cuisine and riverside setting!
Where to stay in Calgary
Courtyard By Marriott Calgary Downtown
- Mid-range: Courtyard By Marriott Calgary Downtown
Your Epic Canadian Winter Road Trip Starts Today!
As you wrap up this incredible winter road trip across Western Canada, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of snow-covered peaks, charming mountain towns, and thrilling outdoor adventures.
Whether it’s your first visit or one of many, Western Canada’s breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality will have you dreaming of your next adventure before you even head home.
Canada’s calling — are you ready to answer?
Canada Essentials
🇨🇦 Canada Travel Essentials 🇨🇦
Top things to do in Canada
- Attractions in Canada: Niagara Falls from Toronto | Banff National Park | Capilano Suspension Bridge | Gulf Islands | Granville Island & Stanley Park
Getting around
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