There’s just so many amazing destinations to explore and the Canadian Rockies is no exception! Standing out as one of the top natural wonders and a must-see if you’re visiting Western Canada. A road trip through this spectacular area is an ideal way to discover and experience the best that the Canadian Rockies have to offer. Given the vastness of the area, many visitors tailor their itineraries to their preferences, often journeying between Vancouver in British Columbia and Calgary in Alberta, whether heading westbound or eastbound.
Here’s our top 10 must-see destinations when travelling through the Canadian Rockies.
Vancouver
Vancouver is a unique urban haven surrounded by majestic mountains and the vast Pacific Ocean. The city features a diverse culinary scene, renowned museums and galleries, historic Gastown, vibrant Robson Street, and the expansive Stanley Park. It serves as an ideal starting or ending point for your Canadian Rockies adventure.
Squamish
Conveniently nestled between Vancouver and Whistler, Squamish is known as Canada’s recreation capital. It offers a range of outdoor activities, including rock climbing, kayaking, mountain biking, and kite surfing. You’ll also find scenic hiking trails that wind through rivers, lakes, ancient rainforests, and mountains. It’s also a top spot for whitewater rafting, perfect for adventure seekers!
Whistler
Whistler is a year round and adventure filled destination, with activities like hiking, biking, and rollerblading along the Valley Trail, which turns into an amazing ski route in winter. Enjoy summer golf on top-tier courses, or get an adrenaline rush from zip-lining through the mountains.
Revelstoke
Revelstoke is a fantastic adventure spot in Canada, offering everything from mountain biking and hiking to sightseeing and the thrilling Pipe Mountain Coaster. You can also explore the Aerial Adventure Park, try your hand at disc golf, or even give axe-throwing a go. With such a wide range of activities, outdoor enthusiasts will find Revelstoke to be the perfect destination.
Columbia Icefields
The Columbia Icefield spans nearly 90 square miles. Start at the Glacier Discovery Centre and embark on the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure. Ride the Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier and enjoy breathtaking views from the Glacier Skywalk, a glass platform over the Sunwapta Valley.
Jasper National Park
The town of Jasper, located in Jasper National Park, is a gateway to outdoor adventures. Famous for its skiing, Jasper also offers hot springs, scenic walks through ancient gorges, cable car rides, and Swiss-inspired local cuisine. It’s an ideal basecamp for exploring the park’s natural beauty.
Moraine Lake
Located in Banff National Park, Moraine Lake is a stunning turquoise gem in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Renowned for reflecting the surrounding peaks perfectly on calm days. During winter, the turquoise lake freezes, usually thawing by June, offering unique photo opportunities even in colder months.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise, a glacial lake and the crown jewel of Banff National Park, is known for its turquoise waters and surrounding snow-capped peaks. It’s a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering hiking, canoeing, and in the winter, skiing, snowboarding, ice-skating, and sleigh rides.
Banff
The town of Banff, nestled in the Canadian Rockies, offers breathtaking mountain scenery and year-round outdoor activities. As Canada’s oldest national park, Banff provides hiking, biking, climbing, and kayaking in summer, and skiing or snowboarding in winter at the Big 3 ski resorts.
Calgary
Calgary, one of Canada’s major cities, is a fantastic choice to begin or end your Canadian Rockies Road Trip due to its proximity to the Rockies, making it very convenient. The city is home to many attractions, but it is most famous for the Calgary Stampede, the world’s largest outdoor rodeo. This renowned annual event attracts visitors from all over the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are planning a trip through the Canadian Rockies, here’s the answers to some of the frequently asked questions.
How long should I take to drive across the Canadian Rockies?
The trip between Vancouver and Calgary can be completed in 7 days, but many opt for a longer duration of up to 14 days or more, depending on the stops and route you choose.
When is the best time of the year to explore the Canadian Rockies?
The optimal time to explore the Canadian Rockies is from May to October. During these months, weather conditions are favourable, and most businesses and parks are open. However, visiting outside this period is still feasible, particularly for winter sports enthusiasts, though some attractions may be closed.
Do you have to pay for entry into Canada’s National Parks?
Yes, fees are required for entry into many of Canada’s National Parks and Historic Sites. These fees support park services, facilities, and conservation efforts. Daily admissions, annual passes, and discovery passes covering multiple parks are available. Additional fees may apply for camping and fishing.
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