Calgary 9-Day Trip Itinerary

Campervan Pick-up

Collect your pre-booked campervan.

Ensure all paperwork is complete and familiarise yourselves with the vehicle's features and amenities. Allow ample time for this process.

Confirm pick-up location and required documents in advance. Inspect the vehicle thoroughly before departing.

Grocery Shopping

Stock up on groceries and supplies for your first few days on the road.

Focus on easy-to-prepare meals and snacks suitable for camper cooking and hiking.

Plan meals ahead to save time and reduce waste. Don't forget water, sunscreen, and bug spray.

Sunset Beach Park Stroll

Enjoy a leisurely walk along Sunset Beach Park, taking in views of English Bay and the surrounding city.

A great way to stretch your legs after arrival.

This park is known for its beautiful sunsets, so consider an evening return if time allows.

Campervan Dinner & Relax

Prepare and enjoy your first meal in your campervan.

A relaxing evening to settle in and plan for the adventure ahead.

Drive to Manning Park

Embark on a scenic drive east from Vancouver towards Manning Provincial Park, passing through the Fraser Valley. Enjoy the changing landscapes from urban to rural mountains.

Stop at a viewpoint or small town like Hope for a coffee break.

Lightning Lake Loop Hike

Enjoy a beautiful, family-friendly hike around Lightning Lake.

This easy 2-hour loop offers stunning lake views, forest scenery, and opportunities for bird watching.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. There are several picnic spots along the trail.

Campsite Setup & Relax

Set up your camper at a provincial park campsite within Manning Park.

Enjoy the tranquility of nature.

Book campsites in BC Provincial Parks well in advance, especially for July.

Evening Stargazing

Away from city lights, Manning Park offers excellent opportunities for stargazing.

Enjoy the night sky with your family.

Drive to Okanagan Valley

Continue your journey east towards the sunny Okanagan Valley.

Choose a hub like Penticton or Kelowna. The drive offers changing scenery from mountain passes to vineyards.

Consider stopping at a fruit stand if driving through a fruit-growing area.

Okanagan Lake Kayak Tour

Enjoy a refreshing kayaking experience on one of the beautiful Okanagan lakes.

Rent kayaks or stand-up paddleboards for a fun family outing on the water.

Many places offer hourly rentals. Life jackets are typically provided. Ensure everyone is comfortable in the water.

Beach Time & Relaxation

Relax on a sandy beach by the lake after your kayaking adventure.

Enjoy swimming or simply soaking up the sun.

Campsite Check-in

Check into your pre-booked campsite in the Okanagan Valley.

Enjoy a camper dinner and the evening ambiance.

Campsites in the Okanagan are very popular in July; book well in advance.

Drive to Revelstoke

Depart the Okanagan and drive north towards Revelstoke, gateway to Mount Revelstoke and Glacier National Parks.

The drive is incredibly scenic, passing through valleys and along rivers.

The route takes you through varied terrain; keep an eye out for wildlife along the roadside.

Lunch in Revelstoke

Grab a quick bite in the charming town of Revelstoke.

Options range from cafes to casual restaurants.

Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail

Explore the Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail in Mount Revelstoke National Park.

This easy interpretive walk takes you through an ancient inland rainforest with towering cedar trees.

Requires a Parks Canada Discovery Pass or daily entry fee. The boardwalk is accessible for all ages.

Campsite Check-in Revelstoke

Set up your camper at a campsite near Revelstoke, preparing for further exploration of the national parks.

Illecillewaet Campground in Glacier National Park is also an option, a bit further east but scenic.

Skunk Cabbage Trail Hike

Embark on the Skunk Cabbage Trail, another easy and scenic hike in Mount Revelstoke National Park.

This trail winds through a lush wetland ecosystem, offering great birdwatching opportunities.

Bring binoculars for birdwatching. The trail is mostly flat and suitable for families.

Explore Revelstoke Museum

Visit the Revelstoke Museum & Archives to learn about the history of this railway and forestry town, and the national parks.

Check opening hours, especially for a Saturday. Entrance fee applies.

Revelstoke Town Stroll & Souvenirs

Take a leisurely walk through downtown Revelstoke, explore local shops, and find some unique souvenirs.

Camper Dinner & Prep for Rockies

Enjoy dinner at your campsite and prepare for the next stage of your journey into the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Kayak Emerald Lake

Enjoy a peaceful kayak tour on the stunning turquoise waters of Emerald Lake.

This family-friendly activity offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and forests, perfect for photography and relaxation.

Kayak and canoe rentals are available directly at the lake. Reservations are highly recommended during peak season (July). Bring waterproof bags for electronics and valuables. The water is cold, even in summer.

Emerald Lake Loop Trail

Embark on a leisurely and scenic loop trail around Emerald Lake.

This relatively flat path offers continuous beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife spotting, making it suitable for all ages.

The trail is mostly flat and well-maintained. Keep an eye out for marmots, birds, and other small wildlife. Wear comfortable walking shoes.

Lunch in Field, BC

Enjoy a casual lunch in the quaint town of Field, the only community located within Yoho National Park.

Options include a cafe or packing your own picnic.

Visit Takakkaw Falls

Witness the powerful and majestic Takakkaw Falls, Canada's second-highest waterfall.

A short, accessible walk from the parking area leads to impressive viewpoints.

The road to Takakkaw Falls is typically open from late June to mid-October, weather permitting. Expect some spray from the falls, especially on windy days.

Campsite Setup & Dinner

Head to a designated campground in Yoho National Park (such as Kicking Horse Campground) to set up your camper van and enjoy a relaxing evening preparing dinner.

Campsites in National Parks are highly sought after in July; ensure you have reservations well in advance. Enjoy a campfire if regulations permit and purchase a Parks Canada fire permit.

Drive to Lake Louise

Enjoy a short, scenic drive from Yoho National Park into Banff National Park to reach the world-renowned Lake Louise.

Hike to Lake Agnes Tea House

Embark on a classic and rewarding hike from the shores of Lake Louise up to the charming Lake Agnes Tea House.

This moderate trail offers stunning views of Lake Louise and surrounding peaks.

Wear sturdy hiking shoes, bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers of clothing. The tea house offers refreshments (cash preferred, often no credit card).

Lunch at Lake Louise

After your hike, enjoy a well-deserved lunch near Lake Louise.

You can pack a picnic to enjoy by the lake or visit one of the cafes or restaurants.

Visit Moraine Lake

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Moraine Lake, renowned for its vibrant turquoise water and dramatic Valley of the Ten Peaks.

Take a short walk along the Rockpile Trail for iconic panoramic views.

Access to Moraine Lake road is restricted for private vehicles for most of the season. Plan to use Parks Canada shuttle buses from Lake Louise Lakeshore or the Park and Ride lot. Check the Parks Canada website for current access rules and shuttle booking information.

Campsite Setup near Banff

Drive to a campground closer to Banff townsite (e.

g., Tunnel Mountain Village I or II) and set up camp for the night.

Booking required far in advance, especially for July. Enjoy the evening at your campsite, perhaps with a short walk or board games.

Explore Banff Townsite

Wander through the picturesque mountain town of Banff, exploring its charming streets, unique shops, and enjoying the lively atmosphere framed by stunning peaks.

Many cafes, souvenir shops, and local art galleries to explore. Consider a stroll along the Bow River.

Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies

Discover the rich art, history, and culture of the Canadian Rockies through engaging exhibits at the Whyte Museum.

It's an excellent way to learn about the region's heritage.

A great indoor activity, especially if the weather is mixed. The museum inspires discovery and wonder where people and the Rocky Mountains meet.

Lunch in Banff

Enjoy lunch at one of Banff's many diverse restaurants or cafes, offering options from casual fare to fine dining.

Scenic Drive: Bow Valley Parkway

Take a leisurely drive along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) for prime wildlife viewing opportunities and stunning mountain vistas.

This alternative route to the Trans-Canada Highway is often quieter.

Keep an eye out for elk, deer, and possibly bears. Be prepared to pull over safely for wildlife viewing. Check for seasonal closures or restrictions, as sections may be car-free to reduce wildlife disturbance.

Drive to Canmore & Camp

Drive from Banff towards the charming mountain town of Canmore, located just outside Banff National Park, and set up your camper at a local campground.

Canmore offers various private and provincial campgrounds. Consider a walk along the Bow River after dinner, with views of the Three Sisters peaks.

Morning Stroll in Canmore

Enjoy a leisurely morning walk through downtown Canmore, admiring the iconic Three Sisters peaks and browsing local shops and galleries.

Grab coffee and pastries from a local cafe to start your day. It's a great opportunity for last-minute souvenir shopping.

Drive to Calgary

Begin your final scenic drive from Canmore to Calgary, transitioning from the dramatic mountain landscapes to the bustling city skyline.

Lunch in Calgary

Have lunch in Calgary, perhaps near your camper drop-off location or a city attraction you plan to visit.

Calgary's +15 Skywalk

Explore Calgary's unique +15 Skywalk system, an elevated network of pedestrian walkways connecting many downtown buildings.

It offers a unique perspective of the city and an alternative to street level.

The +15 network offers protection from weather and interesting perspectives of the city. Look for public art installations and enjoy the views from above street level.

Camper Van Drop-off

Return your rental camper van at the designated drop-off location in Calgary, officially concluding your incredible Canadian Rockies road trip.

Ensure all personal belongings are removed and the vehicle is cleaned according to your rental agreement terms. Confirm drop-off procedures and exact location with your rental company prior to arrival.

Farewell Dinner in Calgary

Enjoy a final dinner in Calgary to celebrate the end of your memorable family adventure through the Canadian Rockies.