Western Canada is the perfect outdoor playground for a scenic road trip. From British Columbia’s west coast to the soaring peaks of the Rockies, astonishing scenery meets you at every turn, along with great chances of spotting wildlife. Whether by car or motorhome, take a look at our top destinations for the ultimate Canadian road trip itinerary.
Start your adventure in Vancouver, the ideal introduction to Western Canada, with its perfect blend of culture, outdoor adventure and multicultural cuisine. Head to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, scale Grouse Mountain (or hop in the gondola!) and explore Stanley Park by bike. Spend your evening’s scouting out the most delicious freshly caught seafood or why not take a tour of Granville Island Public Market and sample the best of everything on offer!
After a couple of nights pick up your car and take a short but scenic ferry to Vancouver Island, and the quaint city of Victoria. This is the ideal place for whale watching so be sure to join a tour and try your luck at spotting orcas, minke whales and other exciting marine animals. It’s also not uncommon to spot playful seals in Victoria’s inner harbour, so take a walk and keep your eyes peeled.
Hop on a ferry back to mainland British Columbia, where the iconic Sea to Sky Highway leads you to Whistler. A stunning year-round mountain resort, Whistler is a world-class outdoor playground. Search for black bears with an experienced guide, whizz through the trees on a thrilling zipline adventure, hike or bike atop Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains and brave the exhilarating Peak 2 Peak Gondola.
Next up is Sun Peaks, a small resort with a lot to offer! Sun Peaks is all about wide open spaces and remarkable mountain views. Take a relaxing ride in the Sunburst chairlift to admire fields of vibrant wildflowers and countless photo-worthy vistas. Back in the pedestrianised village centre, take your pick of bars and restaurants, and why not try a local brew or glass of BC wine.
Alberta awaits, and there’s no view as impressive as the approaching Rocky Mountains while you weave your way to Jasper, a quaint mountain town set within the largest national park in the Rockies. From Jasper drive out to Maligne Canyon, Medicine Lake and the picture perfect Maligne Lake, or join a guided tour of the backcountry on the lookout for elusive bears and mighty eagles. Jasper is a Dark Sky Preserve, so if the conditions are just right, you might even spot the Northern Lights!
Next, it’s time for the most iconic stretch of road so far, the Icefields Parkway. You’re in for a full day of adventure, so start early! Stops include the Columbia Icefield, before continuing to the inimitable shores of Lake Louise.
Your final stop is Banff, a lively resort within sprawling Banff National Park. Head out to explore the wilderness and wildlife, perhaps joining a tour to the serene Moraine Lake, ride the gondola to the peak of Sulphur Mountain and take a relaxing cruise across Lake Minnewanka. There are countless outdoor adventures to enjoy, but Banff’s charming centre is also a great spot to stock up on Canadian mementos or simply soak up the mesmerising views from an outdoor terrace.
Leave the mountains behind as you head to Calgary for your onward flight, reflecting on your great Canadian adventure, or more likely when you’ll be back!