Alberta & British Columbia, Canada 9-Day Trip Itinerary

Drive to Calgary

Begin your epic road trip with a long but scenic drive across the prairies towards Calgary, Alberta.

Enjoy the changing landscapes as you head west.

Calgary Rest Stop

Take a well-deserved break in Calgary.

Stretch your legs, grab a coffee or a quick bite, and prepare for the final leg into the mountains.

Plenty of gas stations and fast-food options along the highway.

Drive to Canmore

Continue your drive from Calgary directly to Canmore, a charming mountain town just outside Banff National Park.

You'll start to see the majestic Rockies appearing on the horizon.

Dinner in Canmore

Enjoy dinner at one of Canmore's local eateries.

Many options range from casual pub fare to more upscale dining, all with a mountain town vibe.

Explore Lake Louise

Visit the iconic turquoise waters of Lake Louise, surrounded by towering peaks.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lake shore or rent a canoe. This is a must-see in the Rockies!

Parking can be challenging; consider taking the Parks Canada shuttle from the Park & Ride lot if available, especially in August. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g154911-d183049-Reviews-Lake_Louise-Lake_Louise_Banff_National_Park_Alberta.html?m=66827

Moraine Lake Viewpoint

Experience the stunning Moraine Lake, known for its vibrant blue water and the Valley of the Ten Peaks.

Access is restricted to shuttles.

Access to Moraine Lake road is restricted to shuttles or private transport with a permit. Check Parks Canada website for latest access information and book shuttle tickets well in advance.

Johnston Canyon Hike

Embark on a beautiful hike through Johnston Canyon to see the lower and upper falls.

The paved catwalks make for an easy and accessible walk, perfect for stunning waterfall views.

Wear sturdy shoes. Go early or late to avoid the biggest crowds, especially in August.

Canmore Town Exploration

Return to Canmore for some relaxation and explore the charming downtown area with its unique shops and art galleries.

Drive to Yoho National Park

Leave Canmore and drive west into British Columbia, entering Yoho National Park, known for its dramatic landscapes and waterfalls.

Emerald Lake Exploration

Visit the stunning Emerald Lake, a serene glacier-fed lake with vibrant turquoise water.

Enjoy a walk around the lake or rent a canoe.

A quieter alternative to Lake Louise, but equally beautiful. Canoe rentals available. Booking: https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=Emerald%20Lake%20BC

Takakkaw Falls Viewpoint

Witness the powerful Takakkaw Falls, the second-highest waterfall in Canada.

A short walk from the parking lot offers incredible views.

The road to Takakkaw Falls is steep and has switchbacks, but it's accessible for most vehicles. Check for seasonal road closures.

Drive to Golden, BC

Continue your drive further west to Golden, a picturesque town nestled between the Rocky and Columbia Mountains.

Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge

Visit the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge in Golden, the longest freestanding timber frame bridge in Canada, offering nice views of the river.

Drive to Vancouver

Embark on a significant driving day through diverse landscapes, from mountains to canyons and finally into the Fraser Valley, before reaching the metropolitan area of Vancouver.

Hotel Check-in

Arrive in Vancouver and check into your accommodation.

Take some time to settle in after the long drive.

Gastown Evening Stroll

Enjoy an evening stroll through Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhood.

Admire the Victorian architecture, browse unique shops, and see the famous Gastown Steam Clock.

Plenty of dinner options in Gastown. Public transit or a short drive from most Vancouver accommodations.

BC Ferries to Vancouver Island

Drive to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal and take a scenic BC Ferries ride across the Strait of Georgia to Swartz Bay (near Victoria) on Vancouver Island. Enjoy the coastal views and keep an eye out for marine wildlife!

Explore Victoria's Inner Harbour

Arrive in Victoria and immerse yourself in the charming capital of British Columbia.

Stroll along the Inner Harbour, admire the Parliament Buildings, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Many attractions, shops, and restaurants are easily accessible by foot from the Inner Harbour.

Coastal Rainforest Walk

Experience the lush temperate rainforest of Vancouver Island.

Head to a nearby park like Goldstream Provincial Park or one of the regional coastal parks for a tranquil walk amidst towering trees and rich greenery.

Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking trails. Goldstream Provincial Park offers accessible trails and impressive trees.

Rainforest Trail Walk

Immerse yourselves in the lush temperate rainforest of Vancouver Island.

Enjoy a tranquil walk amidst giant Western Red Cedars and Western Hemlocks, experiencing the unique ecosystem. Pathways are well-maintained for an enjoyable hike.

There are numerous beautiful rainforest trails on Vancouver Island. This activity suggests exploring a section of the famous Rainforest Trail (Routes A & B) which offers a true immersion. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g154942-d317660-Reviews-Rainforest_Trail-Tofino_Clayoquot_Sound_Alberni_Clayoquot_Regional_District_Vancou.html?m=66827

Lunch & Ferry Check-in

Grab a quick bite near the Nanaimo Departure Bay terminal before boarding your BC Ferries vessel to the mainland.

BC Ferries to Horseshoe Bay

Enjoy a scenic ferry crossing through the beautiful Strait of Georgia from Nanaimo to West Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay).

Keep an eye out for marine wildlife and enjoy the coastal views.

It's highly recommended to book your ferry reservation in advance, especially in August, to guarantee your spot. Prices vary based on vehicle size and number of passengers.

Drive to Vancouver Area & Check-in

Drive from Horseshoe Bay to your budget-friendly accommodation in the Vancouver area, allowing time to settle in.

Dinner in Vancouver

Explore local eateries in your chosen area of Vancouver for dinner, sampling diverse cuisine options.

Explore Stanley Park

Visit Vancouver's iconic Stanley Park.

Walk or bike along the Seawall, see the totem poles, and enjoy panoramic views of the city, mountains, and ocean.

Rent bicycles near the park entrance for a great way to explore the Seawall. Parking is available but can be busy.

Granville Island Public Market

Head to Granville Island for a vibrant sensory experience.

Explore the public market with its fresh produce, artisanal goods, and diverse food stalls. Grab lunch here.

Take an Aquabus or False Creek Ferry for a fun way to get to Granville Island. Parking can be challenging.

Scenic Drive to Lake Country (Okanagan)

Begin your eastward journey with a scenic drive through the Fraser Valley and into the Okanagan region.

Enjoy the transition from coastal landscapes to vineyards and lake views. This is a significant driving day.

Dinner in Lake Country

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Lake Country or nearby communities, experiencing the culinary scene of the Okanagan Valley.

Drive Through BC Interior to Golden

Continue your journey east, driving through diverse landscapes.

You'll pass through the rugged Monashee Mountains, the Columbia Mountains, and eventually reach the heart of the Canadian Rockies near Golden, BC.

Lunch in Golden

Enjoy lunch in the charming town of Golden, nestled between the Rocky and Purcell Mountains.

Explore Kicking Horse River

Visit the Kicking Horse River, known for its powerful waters and the stunning Kicking Horse Canyon.

You can see the Spiral Tunnels railway viewpoint nearby or simply enjoy the river views.

Check into Cabins

Check into your cozy cabin accommodation near Golden.

Dinner in Golden

Enjoy a well-deserved dinner in Golden, reflecting on the incredible scenery you've experienced.

Full Day Drive to Saskatoon

Embark on the final leg of your journey, driving from Golden, BC, across Alberta and back into Saskatchewan. This will be a long but rewarding day of driving, recalling the amazing sights of the past week. Allow for several breaks for fuel, meals, and stretching.

Lunch Break En Route

Stop for lunch in a town along the Trans-Canada Highway in Alberta, such as Brooks or Medicine Hat.

Stretch Break in Saskatchewan

Take a quick break in a Saskatchewan town like Swift Current or Moose Jaw to stretch your legs before the final push to Saskatoon.

Arrive in Saskatoon

Arrive back in Saskatoon, concluding your memorable road trip through the Canadian Rockies and British Columbia.