29th April – Day 1: Arrival Calgary & Drive to Banff
Drive to Banff
Places to visit along the way;
1. Explore downtown Cochrane and stop at MacKay’s Ice Cream. They’ve been serving ice cream in this location for over 70 years! Also visit Half Hitch Brewing Company to try out locally brewed craft beers paired with delicious appetizers and smoked meats.
2. Just west of Cochrane on Highway 1A, you’ll come to Ghost Lake It gets its name from Indigenous stories of a ghost who supposedly prowled the Ghost River nearby.
3. Take a small detour onto Highway 40 to explore Kananaskis Country. Bow Valley Provincial Park is a beautiful natural area situated within Kananaskis Country, just a short drive from Canmore. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you explore the park. Deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and various bird species are commonly spotted in the area.
Notes:
- Banff requires a Park Pass to enter. Daily passes start at $11 CAD per adult. Park Passes can be bought online in advance or at the park entrance.
- You’ll also need a Conservation Pass if you plan to explore the Kananaskis area. I recommend a day pass (although yearly passes are available) for $15 CAD per car. If you don’t plan on stopping in the Kananaskis area, a pass is not required to simply drive through.
Sulphur Mountain Gondola
Sulphur Mountain is one of the iconic peaks in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada, renowned for its stunning panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies.
- Scenic Gondola Ride: The Banff Gondola provides a breathtaking eight-minute ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.
- Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk: Upon reaching the summit, step out of the gondola station and onto the Sulphur Mountain boardwalk.
- Sulphur Mountain Cosmic Ray Station: Explore the historic Cosmic Ray Station, a National Historic Site of Canada located near the gondola summit.
Bow Falls
Bow Falls is a must-visit destination in the Banff area for several reasons:
- Natural Beauty: Bow Falls is a picturesque waterfall located on the Bow River, surrounded by stunning Rocky Mountain scenery.
- Hiking and Walking Trails: While at Bow Falls, you can explore the surrounding area on several hiking and walking trails.
- Wildlife Viewing: The Bow Falls area is known for its abundant wildlife, including elk, deer, and various bird species. Keep your eyes peeled as you explore the area, as you may have the chance to spot some of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.
Optional Cave & Basin Historic site: Stepping into Banff history to visit the Cave and Basin Historic site which is the first hot springs to be discovered in the 19th century. You can take several trials like the Discovery Boardwalk, and the Marsh trail to enjoy amazing natural scenery while studying the history of Banff National Park.
Optional Drive the Minnewanka Loop: Each twist and turn of the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive brings news vistas and hidden delights into view. Leafy corners, lakeview lookouts, remnants of an old mining town and the spectacular rocky causeway above Lake Minnewanka are just a few of the treasures packed into this 24 km loop.
30th April – Day 2: Drive to Icefields Parkway
Today, we will drive along Icefields Parkway, National Geographic magazine has voted it as one of the most beautiful scenic highways on the planet. This breathtaking drive blends jaw-dropping views with pristine wilderness.
Places to Explore:
1. Lake Louise: The star attraction itself, Lake Louise is a glacier-fed lake known for its mesmerizing turquoise colour. Towering above Lake Louise, Victoria Glacier adds to the dramatic backdrop of the lake. You can admire the glacier from various viewpoints around the lake.
2.Pass by the snow-capped mountain peaks of Crowfoot Glacier. Following the visit to Bow Lake, the lake is a bright turquoise colour which is due to the glacial runoff from Bow Glacier.
3. Shortly after, we will come to Peyto Lake, a must-see lake in Banff National Park for its unique maple shape or vibrant blue glacier-fed water.
4. After that, we will arrive at Columbia Icefield and experience the stunning beauty of Athabasca Glacier the largest and oldest icefield in North America.
1st May Day 3: Drive to Kamloops
The journey from Banff to Kamloops offers breathtaking scenery and several notable stops along the way. Here are some recommended places to stop and explore:
- Emerald Lake: Located in Yoho National Park, just off the Trans-Canada Highway, Emerald Lake is renowned for its stunning turquoise waters surrounded by towering peaks. Take a leisurely walk around the lake or rent a canoe to paddle on its pristine waters.
- Field, British Columbia: This charming mountain town is nestled in the heart of the Rockies and offers opportunities for hiking, exploring, and dining. Stop for a coffee or a bite to eat at one of the local cafes or restaurants, or stretch your legs with a short hike to one of the nearby viewpoints.
- Golden, British Columbia: As you continue westward, consider a stop in Golden, a picturesque town surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Visit the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge, browse the local shops, or grab a bite to eat at one of the eateries in town.
- Revelstoke, British Columbia: Revelstoke is a vibrant mountain town situated on the banks of the Columbia River. Explore the historic downtown area, visit the Revelstoke Railway Museum, or take a scenic drive up Mount Revelstoke for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Sicamous, British Columbia: Known as the houseboat capital of Canada, Sicamous is situated on the shores of Shuswap Lake. Take a break from driving and enjoy a picnic by the lake, rent a paddleboard or kayak, or simply soak in the serene surroundings.
- Chase, British Columbia: This quaint town is located at the western end of Little Shuswap Lake and offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. Visit Roderick Haig-Brown Provincial Park to explore the riverside trails and learn about the area’s natural history.
Explore Downtown Kamloops & River Park
Take a stroll through downtown Kamloops to discover its vibrant atmosphere, local shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Victoria Street, also known as the “Main Street of Kamloops,” is lined with historic buildings and offers a variety of dining and shopping options.
Spend some time relaxing at Riverside Park, located along the Thompson River in downtown Kamloops. This expansive park features scenic walking paths, picnic areas, and beautiful views of the river and surrounding mountains.
2nd May Day 4: Drive to Whistler
The drive from Kamloops to Whistler offers stunning scenery and several noteworthy stops along the way. Here are some recommended places to stop and explore during your journey:
- Cache Creek: As you leave Kamloops, consider making a quick stop in Cache Creek. This small town is known for its scenic location along the Trans-Canada Highway and offers a few amenities such as gas stations and restaurants.
- Lillooet: Approximately halfway between Kamloops and Whistler lies the town of Lillooet, often referred to as the “Jewel of the Fraser.” Take a break in Lillooet to explore its rich history, visit local attractions like the Miyazaki House Museum or the Fort Berens Estate Winery, and enjoy stunning views of the Fraser River.
- Joffre Lakes Provincial Park: If you’re up for a scenic detour, consider stopping at Joffre Lakes Provincial Park. This beautiful park is known for its three stunning turquoise lakes surrounded by glaciers and towering peaks. The hike to the Upper Joffre Lake is the most popular and offers breathtaking views.
- Pemberton: As you approach Whistler, make a stop in Pemberton, a charming town nestled at the foot of the majestic Mount Currie. Explore the local shops and cafes, visit the Pemberton Distillery for a tasting of craft spirits, or take a scenic drive along Pemberton Meadows Road.
- Nairn Falls Provincial Park: Just a short drive from Pemberton lies Nairn Falls Provincial Park, home to the impressive Nairn Falls. Take a short hike to the waterfall viewpoint to admire the powerful cascade as it plunges into the gorge below.
Whistler
Explore the pedestrian-only village of Whistler, with its charming cobblestone streets, boutique shops, art galleries, and lively après-ski scene. Take a leisurely stroll, grab a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Also visit the Summit Viewing Deck for panoramic views, explore the Alpine Walk interpretive trail, and learn about the area’s flora and fauna at the Raven’s Eye Cliff Walk.
3rd May Day 5: Drive (Ferry) to Victoria
Drive to Victoria
The drive from Whistler to Victoria, with stops in Squamish and then catching the ferry to Vancouver Island, offers scenic views and several notable attractions along the way.
- Squamish: Depart from Whistler and head south on Highway 99, also known as the Sea-to-Sky Highway, toward Squamish. Ride the Sea-to-Sky Gondola for panoramic views of Howe Sound and the surrounding mountains.
- Shannon Falls: Just a short drive from Squamish, Shannon Falls Provincial Park is home to the third highest waterfall in British Columbia. Take a short walk to the base of the falls for impressive views.
- Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal: Continue south on Highway 99 to Horseshoe Bay, where you’ll catch the ferry to Vancouver Island. Before boarding the ferry, consider stopping in Horseshoe Bay for a meal or to stretch your legs.
- Ferry to Vancouver Island: Board the BC Ferries vessel at Horseshoe Bay Terminal for the scenic journey across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island. Enjoy views of the coastline and surrounding islands as you cruise to your destination.
Explore Victoria
- Take a walk along the Inner Harbour and marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Parliament Buildings, the Royal BC Museum, and the Fairmont Empress Hotel.
- Spend some time exploring downtown Victoria’s charming streets, boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Stop for afternoon tea at one of the city’s historic hotels or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.
- Fisherman’s Wharf, a unique floating village with colorful houseboats, seafood vendors, and waterfront eateries. Enjoy fish and chips or fresh seafood straight from the dock.
4th May Day 6: Victoria
Optional Whale Watching Tour – 4 hrs
Marvel at the majesty of Canada’s marine wildlife on this 3-hour whale-watching adventure in Victoria. Hop aboard your boat, a semi-covered vessel built specifically for whale-watching trips, and cruise through the Haro Strait with your guide. Watch the waves from the open sun decks or stay protected from the spray in the heated indoor cabin. Stop off at points of interest through the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Listen to fascinating commentary from marine naturalists on board, and admire the beautiful orca, humpback whales, and minke whales you find.
Buchart Gardens
Just a short drive from downtown Victoria, Butchart Gardens is a world-renowned floral display garden featuring stunning themed gardens, colorful flower beds, and tranquil pathways. Today, The Butchart Gardens is a National Historic Site of Canada. You’ll find remnants of the original cement plant and millions of bedding plants in over 900 varieties awaiting you as you wander The Gardens.
I suggest around 3-4 hours to fully enjoy The Gardens.
5th May Day 7: Drive (Ferry) to Vancouver Downtown
Drive from Victoria to Vancouver Downtown
The journey from Victoria to downtown Vancouver, including the ferry crossing, offers stunning coastal scenery and convenient transportation options.
- Departure from Victoria: Start your journey in Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, located on Vancouver Island. Depart from Victoria and head towards the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, approximately a 30-minute drive north of downtown Victoria. The ferry ride takes approximately 1.5 hours, during which you can enjoy views of the coastal mountains, islands, and marine wildlife.
- Tsawwassen Terminal: Disembark from the ferry at Tsawwassen Terminal and follow the signs to Highway 17, also known as the South Fraser Perimeter Road, which connects to Highway 99, the route to downtown Vancouver.
- Lions Gate Bridge: As you approach Vancouver, follow the signs for Lions Gate Bridge, which connects the North Shore to downtown Vancouver. Cross the iconic suspension bridge and enjoy panoramic views of Stanley Park, Burrard Inlet, and the downtown skyline.
6th May Day 8: Free time In Vancouver
7th May Day 9: Toronto Departure
