Western Canada road trip: Vancouver and the Rockies

Turquoise lakes, glaciers, forests and wildlife: the Canadian Rockies are among the most beautiful mountain landscapes in the world. This two-week itinerary links Vancouver with Banff and Jasper.

Itinerary “Western Canada road trip: Vancouver and the Rockies” in Voyage : mon guide on iPad

Itinerary: from Vancouver to Jasper

  • Days 1 to 3: Vancouver: Stanley Park, Granville Island and Gastown
  • Day 4: The Sea-to-Sky highway to Whistler
  • Days 5 and 6: Across British Columbia to the Rockies
  • Days 7 to 9: Banff and around: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and Yoho National Park
  • Days 10 and 11: The Icefields Parkway, one of the most beautiful roads in the country
  • Days 12 to 14: Jasper and Maligne Lake, then back to Calgary or Vancouver

When to go

From June to September, roads and trails are open and the lakes have thawed. July and August are the busiest months. In late September, autumn colours are superb, but some services close.

Getting around

A car is essential. Distances are long: plan driving days between Vancouver and the Rockies. A Vancouver – Calgary flight saves time one way.

Our tips

  • A pass is required for the national parks
  • Car access to some very busy lakes is regulated: check ahead and use the shuttles
  • Keep your distance from wildlife, especially bears
  • Check entry requirements for your nationality (electronic travel authorisation)

Plan this trip with Voyage : mon guide

Add each stop with its number of nights: the app creates the days and puts the whole route on an Apple Maps map. Keep lakes, lookouts and hikes in the ideas box, log flights, trains and rentals on the right day, then prepare the trip for offline use before leaving. Once there, Guide mode shows the current day and tonight’s hotel.

The trip itinerary on iPhone

Frequently asked questions

How long do I need?

Two weeks cover Vancouver and the Rockies. With ten days, start from Calgary and go straight to the parks.

Where to stay in the Rockies?

Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise and Jasper have accommodation, often full in summer: book early.

Plan this itinerary with Voyage : mon guide.

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