Canadian Rockies Road Trip: Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise & Calgary - 12 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Calgary, Drive to Banff, Explore at Leisure

Welcome to Western Canada! Your road trip begins with picking up your rental car upon landing at the Calgary airport and driving an hour to the charming town of Banff, home to Canada's first national park. Follow the Trans-Canada Highway west, leaving the cityscape behind, taking note of the landscape transforming into towering mountains and expansive forests as you drive amid the Canadian Rockies. Pass through quaint towns like Canmore, where you can catch sight of the towering Three Sisters peaks. Upon entering Banff, drop off your luggage at your hotel and return to explore the mountain town.

A good place to start is the Banff Park Museum National Historic Site, housed in a historic log building. Browse the collection of taxidermied animals to learn more about the area's wildlife, then discover the exhibits highlighting the region's geological features and the significance of the national park's conservation efforts. After visiting the museum, wander through town to admire local artwork, shop for souvenirs, or grab a bite. End the day at Banff Upper Hot Springs to unwind in the warm, mineral-rich waters surrounded by trees and, of course, the Rocky Mountains. 

Day 2: Guided Tour of Banff, Ride the Banff Gondola

Join your guide this morning for a 5.5-hour tour of some of the town's landmarks, starting at the UNESCO-listed Fairmont Banff Springs, to admire the castle-like exterior of this opulent hotel. Continue to nearby Bow Falls to watch Bow River cascade over a series of rocky ledges into a turquoise pool below. Stroll down one of the surrounding trails to admire the falls from different vantage points before continuing to the Surprise Corner Viewpoint. It's a great spot to capture a photo of the surrounding forests, tranquil river, and iconic hotel you visited earlier. 

Head to Lake Minnewanka next, a glacial lake renowned for its crystal-clear waters and scenic mountain vistas. Wander down one of the surrounding trails or book a boat cruise to learn about the lake's history. End the tour at the Banff Gondola to take a ride up Sulphur Mountain. Enjoy panoramic views of rugged peaks, lush forests, and alpine lakes at the summit while you soak up the fresh mountain air. Learn about the area's history and geology at the Interpretive Centre, or grab a bite to eat at the mountaintop restaurant while you enjoy the unparalleled views.

Day 3: Free Day, Hike in Kananaskis Country

Lace up your hiking boots and drive 30 minutes to Kananaskis Country, a region in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies home to 10 provincial parks, like Bow Valley and Elbow-Sheep Wildland. With all these parks, hiking is one of the most popular activities in the area. If you're looking for a challenging trek, you can climb to Ha Ling Peak for panoramic views of Canmore, the Bow Valley, and nearby peaks like Mount Rundle. It's a 4.8-mile (7.7 km) out-and-back trail almost entirely uphill, so it's best suited to the more physically fit. 

For those who want a more leisurely hike, consider the 2.1-mile (3.4 km) out-and-back trail to Troll Falls. Start at Kananaskis Village and follow the well-maintained path through the forest until you reach the base of the picturesque falls. If you want to skip hiking together, drive along the Smith-Dorrien Trail, better known as the "Highway to the Sky," for its panoramic views of rugged peaks, pristine lakes, and expansive meadows. Pause at the scenic viewpoints throughout to truly appreciate the area's natural beauty, or sit down for a picnic.

Day 4: Whitewater Raft Kicking Horse River

Today's activity will surely be memorable as you pick up a paddle and go whitewater rafting down Kicking Horse River, just 1.5 hours outside of Banff. The river is renowned for its rapids ranging from Class II to Class IV, making it suitable for beginner and experienced rafters. After a safety briefing, don your gear and head to the river to board your raft. Start at a quiet section of the river to perfect your rafting skills. Then, as the canyon narrows, watch the waves build, drenching you as you navigate exciting rapids like Portage, Man Eater, and Shotgun.

After the three-hour excursion, return to Banff and enjoy the rest of the day as you like. You could visit the Cave and Basin National Historic Site to see where Canada's national park system was born. Explore the underground thermal spring cave and wander down the boardwalks reading the signs detailing the site's geology, wildlife, and the early conservation efforts that led to the establishment of Banff National Park. In the evening, take to Banff's bustling main street, Banff Avenue, to choose from an array of local and international restaurants for dinner.

Day 5: Drive to Jasper, Hike the Athabasca Glacier

Say goodbye to Banff this morning as you hit the road for a 3-4-hour drive northwest to Jasper, a small mountain town home to one of Canada's oldest and largest national parks. The drive takes you up Icefields Parkway, an awe-inspiring highway surrounded by towering peaks, pristine forests, and sparkling glacial lakes. On the way, you'll stop at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre to put on crampons and join your group for a three-hour guided hike on the lower portion of the Athabasca Glacier. Admire (and listen to) the blue ice formations and deep crevasses as you learn about the glacier's formation, history, and how it's impacted by climate change.

Jump back in the car and complete the drive to your hotel in Jasper. When ready, set out to explore your surroundings on foot. You might opt to visit the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum & Archives to learn about the area's First Nations heritage, wildlife, and the development of Jasper National Park.

Day 6: Hike in Jasper National Park, Relax in Miette Hot Springs

Get ready for another active adventure as you spend the day exploring the trails in Jasper National Park. One of the most popular trails is the Valley of the Five Lakes, as it's relatively easy and takes you past five glacial lakes. Follow the 2.8-mile (4.5 km) loop through the forest, stopping to admire each lake's unique color, ranging from emerald to deep blue. Along the way, you'll also spot signs providing insights into the area's geological and ecological features.

Those who want more of a challenge can hike the 4.9-mile (7.8 km) out-and-back Sulphur Skyline Trail. This trail takes you up Sulphur Mountain, passing through forested terrain until you reach open alpine slopes. From the summit, enjoy panoramic views of the mountains and the tranquil Athabasca River. Afterward, hop in the car and follow the Athabasca River north to Miette to soak weary muscles in the mineral-rich Miette Hot Springs, the hottest water in the Canadian Rockies. 

Day 7: Free Day in Jasper, Jasper SkyTram & Planetarium 

Today is yours to explore Jasper National Park as you choose. You might like to go on another hike or book a cruise across Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies, as it stretches over 13.7 miles (22 km). On board, glide past towering peaks, including the iconic Mount Edith Cavell, the snowcapped Queen Elizabeth Ranges, and Spirit Island, a picturesque islet adorned with dense pine forests. Disembark and follow the short path around the islet to different observation decks for panoramic views of the glacial lake and towering peaks. 

Day 8: Guided Maligne Canyon Hike, Explore Mount Edith Cavell 

Start your day with a guided hike in Maligne Canyon, formed over millions of years by the Maligne River. Follow the trail along the canyon's rim, stopping at different viewpoints to look down into the chasm and marvel at the sculpted rock formations and cascading waterfalls. Descend into the canyon, crossing over five different bridges to get an up-close look at the rock formations, potholes, and waterfalls. When you reach the bottom of the route, your driver will be waiting to take you back to the top to save you from the steep ascent.

If you're not too tired, spend the afternoon exploring Mount Edith Cavell independently. The area has plenty of trails, but one of the most popular is the 0.9-mile (1.4 km) Path of the Glacier Trail that leads to a viewpoint overlooking Angel Glacier and Cavell Pond. Another option is the 3.7-mile (6 km) Edith Cavell Meadows Trail, which is moderately challenging due to its steep ascent. Along the way, you'll be treated to views of Mount Edith Cavell and Angel Glacier. Be sure to check out the view of the winding Athabasca River before returning to the parking lot along the same path. 

Day 9: Drive to Lake Louise, Explore

Bid farewell to Jasper this morning and set off on a three-hour drive south to Lake Louise, a hamlet in Banff National Park that's home to an iconic glacial lake of the same name. The drive takes you back along Icefields Parkway so you can get one last look at the surrounding peaks, glaciers, and lakes. If you want to break up the drive, stop at Peyto Lake to admire the turquoise water surrounded by towering mountains. Park at the Bow Pass/Summit parking lot and follow the short path to an observation deck overlooking the glacier-fed lake.

Back in the car, complete the drive to your new hotel, where you can check in and freshen up before venturing out to discover the area on your own. Visit the historic Fairmont Château Lake Louise, nestled on the shores of Lake Louise. Look out at the glittering water and the opulent exterior of the hotel before heading inside for afternoon tea or a meal on the lakeside terrace. You can then rent a kayak or canoe to paddle across the lake and enjoy the dramatic mountain scenery. In the evening, return to the village for dinner at one of the restaurants or cozy lodges.

Day 10: Guided Tour of Lake Louise & Moraine Lake, Explore Yoho National Park

This morning, join your guide to tour Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, an hour's drive away. Admire the glacial lake surrounded by snowcapped mountains and glaciers while you learn about the area's history, geology, and wildlife. Continue south to Moraine Lake, within the Valley of the Ten Peaks, to follow the Rockpile Trail to a panoramic lookout. After snapping pictures, head back down for refreshments and maple cookies. 

After the tour, the rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish. You could head to Yoho National Park, just 20 minutes away from Lake Louise. The park is known for its cascading waterfalls, pristine lakes, and towering mountains, so choose from one of the many trails to discover these hidden gems. Consider the Emerald Lake Loop to see another picturesque body of water, and be sure to check out the Natural Bridge for postcard-perfect scenery. 

Day 11: Drive to Calgary, Dinner at Sky 360

Trade the natural beauty of Lake Louise for the city streets of Calgary this morning as you drive two hours east back to Cowtown. Along the way, stop in Canmore again to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. When you arrive in the city, freshen up at your hotel, then enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace. If you want to learn more about the province's rich history, head to Glenbow Museum. Browse the collection of First Nations artifacts, documents, and artworks, providing insight into the heritage and creativity of Western Canada.

In the evening, head up Calgary Tower for dinner reservations at the revolving restaurant, Sky 360. Choose from a selection of dishes, such as seared Pacific scallops or roasted Arctic char, made with locally sourced ingredients as you enjoy ever-changing views of the city, Rocky Mountains, and sweeping prairies beyond. Afterward, head to the observation deck for one last glimpse of the skyline before returning to your hotel for a nightcap.

Day 12: Visit the Calgary Farmers' Market, Depart

If you have time before your flight, venture to the Calgary Farmers' Market to browse the stalls of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and handmade crafts. Shop for souvenirs or indulge in local delights, like jerky made with Alberta's famous beef or prairie berries in a pie, jam, or syrup. When it's time, drive to the airport, return your rental car, and head inside for your flight home. Safe travels!