Circling the Canadian Rockies

Difficulty

412 miles / 663 km

Distance

7

Recom. Days

adventure

Trip type

Renata Almeida
Renata Almeida

Having lived in 3 continets already, Renata is passionate about travelling and loves creating unique iteneraries.

Circling the Canadian Rockies

The Canadian Rockies are known for their rugged mountain scenery, stunning glaciers, pristine lakes, and rich cultures. There is no better way to experience the majesty of Canada than on a campervan road trip through the Canadian Rockies.

Set off on an unforgettable Canadian Rockies road trip and get ready for jaw-dropping views, wildlife encounters, and unlimited outdoor adventures! There are endless opportunities to explore. The Canadian Rockies are a road-tripper paradise.

Depending on how you like to plan your road trips, seven days is a good amount of time to explore the best parts of the region. But, with that being said, the options for spontaneous adventure are endless in the Canadian Rockies.

Set your compass and grab your Canadian Rockies map because this campervan road trip will be unforgettable. From the turquoise lakes to the snow-capped mountain peaks, each bend in the road promises a new adventure. Orient your compass because it's time to hit the open road!

Pick-up in
Calgary - Pick-up Center
1

Banff National Park

Begin your Canadian Rockies road trip in the morning by making the scenic 1.5-hour drive west from Calgary to Banff National Park.

Established in 1885, Banff is Canada’s first national park. The park encompasses 6,641 square kilometers of unspoiled, remote wilderness. It is home to bears, elk, bighorn sheep, and moose–just to name a few.

Spend your time in Banff exploring on foot, by boat, or on a bike. This stunning region offers a multitude of opportunities for outdoor recreation and relaxation.

Visiting

Banff National Park

1

Recom. Days

Main route

68 miles/ 110 km

from Calgary

1h8min

drive

You can find Indie Campers RV rentals in more than 40 different cities and destinations across Europe.

Visit

Tunnel Mountain

Breathtaking views overlooking the Bow Valley. This scenic valley was carved out by glaciers over a million years ago and is now home to some of Banff's most popular attractions.

Lake Minnewanka

Paddle across this serene lake. The lake also offers a great opportunity to walk to several waterfalls, swim, or simply relax along the pebble shore while taking in the majestic view of the surrounding mountains.

Banff Gondola

Catch the sunset on a ride up Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of the park.

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Eat at

Eddie Burger & Bar

$

American-style burgers, fries, and milkshakes in a retro-style diner.

The Maple Leaf Grille

$$

Canadian Cuisine in a cozy mountain lodge atmosphere

The Bison Restaurant

$$$

Elegant farm-to-table gastronomy with an elegant atmosphere

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Parking

Bear Street Parkade

Free parking downtown, 9 hour maximum

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Stay at

Two Jack Main equipped campsite

fall asleep under the stars

2

Icefields Parkway

As you leave the charming town of Banff, head down Highway 93, also known as Icefields Parkway. Icefields Parkway is a famous highway connecting Banff to Jasper National Park. This stunning highway offers breathtaking scenery alongside multiple opportunities for exploration.

As you drive, you’ll find yourself flanked by towering peaks, massive glaciers, and sparkling lakes. Stay on the lookout for herds of moose and elk wandering the valleys and be prepared to pull over for a photo of the picturesque backdrop.

Each bend in the road will offer more opportunities to explore the Canadian Rockies. Find vistas, hiking trails, and pristine lakesides perfect for punctuating your long, scenic drive through the mountains

Visiting

Icefields Parkway

1

Recom. Days

Main route

65 miles / 106 km

from Banff National Park

1h15min

drive

You can find Indie Campers RV rentals in more than 40 different cities and destinations across Europe.

Visit

Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint

A short 20-minute hike that leads to spectacular vistas overlooking the snow-dusted mountain tops. If you listen closely, you might even hear the thunderous rumbles of the ice reshaping the landscape.

Mistaya Canyon

Walk across the narrow bridge to gain a true sense of the powerful Mistaya River that flows at the bottom of the diving canyon below.

Peyto Lake

The most iconic view in the Canadian Rockies, this lake boasts an unbelievable blue color and multiple opportunities for hiking and exploring.

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Eat at

Big Horn Cafe

$

A casual diner known for its homemade pies and sandwiches.

Num-Ti-Jah Lodge

$$

The historic lodge will have mountain views and be offering elk, bison, and trout.

Glacier View Inn

$$$

An elegant dining experience with an extensive wine list and high-quality meats.

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Parking

Mistaya Canyon Parking Lot

Free parking

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Stay at

Honeymoon Lake

$$

A serene spot located along Honeymoon Lake

3

Jasper National Park

Reward yourself for completing the Icefields Parkway drive by stretching your legs in Jasper National Park. This park is located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. The national park is characterized by abundant wildlife, thundering waterfalls, vast ice fields, and seemingly endless alpine scenery.

 The park offers a multitude of opportunities to canoe, kayak, and hike, around the quintessential alpine scenes of the Canadian Rockies. In the evenings, explore the town or join a dark sky astronomy tour to learn all about the planets.

Once you’ve had your fill of nature, head to the charming mountain town of Jasper, located in the park. Learn about the history of the park, sip tea in cozy cafes, or spend time in any of the quaint shops located along the main street.

Visiting

Jasper National Park

2

Recom. Days

Main route

7 miles / 11 km

Icefields Parkway

9min

drive

You can find Indie Campers RV rentals in more than 40 different cities and destinations across Europe.

Visit

Miette Hot Springs

Enjoy a soak in these remote sulfur hot springs located just east of Jasper town.

Columbia Icefield

Ride an Ice Explorer onto the glaciers for incredible scenery

Athabasca Falls

Hike to this thunderous cascade– one of the most stunning waterfall displays found on the Canadian Rockies Map.

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Eat at

Patricia Street Deli

$

A cozy and casual deli with homemade soups, sandwiches, and salads. It’s best known for its breakfast

The Raven Bistro

$$

A swanky bistro offering creative takes on traditional Canadian cuisine. Enjoy elk tenderloin and Alberta Steak.

The Crimson Jasper

$$$

A fine dining option at the Crimson Hotel. This restaurant is perfect for anyone who fancies a farm-to-table meal.

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Parking

Miette Hot Springs Parking Lot

Located in walking distance of the springs

Columbia Icefields Glacier Discovery Centere

Free Parking with access to the Columbia Icefields

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Stay at

Whistlers Campground

$$

Located in Jasper Town

4

Yoho National Park

When exploring the Canadian Rockies, Yoho National Park offers a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with Canadian history. For nature lovers and History Buffs, Yoho National Park is a perfect detour to break up your trip down the Icefields Parkway. 

 Marvel at the impressive Spiral Tunnels, be enamored by the views of the continental divide, and explore lush valleys and towering waterfalls. Located in the true heart of the Canadian Rockies this off-the-beaten-path location gives you a chance to escape the crowds of tourists.

 Explore the area on foot, by boat, or even by bike. Whatever level your passion for the outdoors, Yoho has something for every nature lover.

Visiting

Yoho National Park

1

Recom. Days

Main route

100 miles/ 161 km

from Jasper National Park

1h53min

drive

You can find Indie Campers RV rentals in more than 40 different cities and destinations across Europe.

Visit

Spiral Tunnels Viewpoint

Observe an incredible feat of engineering and the continental divide from this spectacular vantage point.

Takakkaw Falls

Fed by the Daly Glacier this spectacular waterfall will leave you breathless.

Lake Agnes Trail

Hike this scenic trail through dense forests and past cascading waterfalls. Arrive at a mountain lake and enjoy a snack in the floating tea house.

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Eat at

The Siding Cafe

$

A small cafe in Field that offers home-cooked meals and delicious baked goods. Perfect for breakfast and lunch.

Truffle Pigs Bistro

$$

Elk burgers, wild-caught salmon, and bison stew. Enjoy Canadian Rockies classics in this relaxed, rustic environment.

Lake O’Hara Lodge Dining Room

$$$

Located in a remote region of Yoho, this off-the-beaten-path restaurant offers fine dining with incredible mountain views.

RV icon

Parking

Takakkaw Falls Parking Lot

Easily accessible and proximal to the falls

Chateau Lake Louise

Park in this free parking lot to reach the Lake Agnes Trail

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Stay at

Emerald Seasons RV Park

$$

Located in Fields, offers full hookups, laundry, showers, and wifi.

5

Lake Louise

When traveling through the Canadian Rockies in your campervan, you cannot miss Lake Louise. Get up early to miss the crowds and catch the golden morning light dancing across the serene surface of the lake.

Hike around the water's edge, stretch your legs in the Ink Pots, a stunning series of blue-green pools, and enjoy soaking up the steam at the Upper Hot Springs.

Visiting

Lake Lousie

1

Recom. Days

Main route

42.9 km

from Yoho National Park

32 min

drive

You can find Indie Campers RV rentals in more than 40 different cities and destinations across Europe.

Visit

Lake Louise

A turquoise lake with abundant wildlife

Ink Pots

A series of blue-green pools that cascade into a canyon

Upper Hot Springs

Sulfurous hot water baths surrounded by stunning views

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Eat at

Lagan’s Bakery

$

A quaint bakery in Lak Louise Village

Bill Peyto’s Cafe

$$

A cozy waterfront cafe at the Lake Louise Inn

The Post Hotel Dining Room

$$

Elegant dining with regional cuisine

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Parking

Lake Louise Lakeshore

Paid Parking within walking distance of Lake Louise

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Stay at

Castle Mountain Campground

$$

30 minutes from Lake Louise with full hookups

6

Kananaskis Country

East of Banff lies the scenic Kananaskis region. This area of protected parkland is home to abundant wildlife like moose, elk, bears, birds, and wolves. It is a popular local spot for outdoor recreation.

While exploring the region, you will find diverse and beautiful landscapes ranging from mountains to valleys and flats. Enjoy activities like climbing, fishing, and even skiing if you choose to go in the winter.

Visiting

Kananaskis Country

1

Recom. Days

Main route

61 miles /98.3 km

from Lake Louise

1h01min

drive

You can find Indie Campers RV rentals in more than 40 different cities and destinations across Europe.

Visit

Wasootch Peak Hike

A hike that ends with a breath-taking 360-degree view of the Canadian Rockies’ Continental Divide

Heart Creek via Ferrata

Climb ladders, bridges, and mountain trails to reach spectacular views

Chester Lake

Off-the-beaten-path alpine lake framed by rugged peaks

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Eat at

Grizzly Paw Brewing

$$

Canmore pub food in a laid-back environment

Crazyweed Kitchen

$$

Locally sourced Canadian cuisine located in Canmore

The Kananaskis Mountain Lodge

$$$

Elegant lodge dining with pasta, seafood, and an extensive wine list.

RV icon

Parking

Town Centre Parking

Paid Parking in the heart of Canmore

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Stay at

Three Sisters Campground

$$

Canmore Campground with full hookups and mountain views

Drop-off in
Calgary - Pick-up Center

53 miles/ 86 km

from

56 min

Kananskis