Roadtrip Western Canada
Roadtrip Western Canada: Full Itinerary
For our parents’ 30th wedding anniversary, we wanted to do something really special: a family adventure, this time with us as the organisers. We rented a camper and took our parents on a road trip through breathtaking Western Canada. It felt like a modern version of the camping trips we took as kids, but in a completely new setting. Instead of French campgrounds or German forests, we experienced turquoise lakes, endless pine forests, and snow-capped mountain peaks. The trip was a mix of nature, nostalgia, and new memories, all in one incredible journey.
Arrival in Vancouver: City, Bridges, and a Halloween Vibe
After a direct flight from Frankfurt, we arrived in Vancouver, where our adventure began. Vancouver is a vibrant city with a unique combination of nature and urban life. We visited the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, which was decorated for Halloween with lights, pumpkins, and autumn-themed displays. Even our mother, who has a fear of heights, was able to enjoy the park safely without crossing the wobbly bridge. In the city itself, we explored Gastown and its famous Steam Clock, and wandered through Stanley Park, one of North America’s largest city parks, enjoying the beautiful autumn colours. Vancouver is a fantastic introduction to Canada, offering a mix of cultural landmarks and natural beauty all in one place.
From City to Mountains: Sea to Sky Highway and Whistler
After a few days in Vancouver, we picked up our camper from Cruise Canada, marking the true start of our road trip. Driving along the Sea to Sky Highway, we were treated to a stunning coastal route with views of mountains, fjords, and dense forests. There are many worthwhile stops along the way. For example, you could pause at the Cypress Lookout for panoramic views of Vancouver, or visit Shannon Falls, an impressive waterfall easily accessible from the road. In Whistler, it is possible to experience Vallea Lumina in the evening – a magical trail through the forest filled with lights, music, and storytelling. For anyone exploring Western Canada, this route offers a combination of dramatic landscapes and outdoor experiences suitable for all ages.
Heading to Kamloops and Further North
From Whistler, we continued toward Kamloops, a hub for exploring the surrounding wilderness. Along the way, there are short hikes and viewpoints that make the journey just as memorable as the destination. For example, you could take a short trail to Nairn Falls to see crystal-clear rushing water, or ride the Sea to Sky Gondola for spectacular views over fjords and mountains. One of the highlights on this route could be Joffre Lakes Provincial Park, famous for its vibrant turquoise lakes and striking mountain scenery. A stop at Seton Lake Lookout also offers breathtaking views. This stretch of the road constantly changes scenery – from forests and rivers to mountain passes and open valleys – giving travellers a wonderful taste of Canada’s diverse landscapes.
Onwards to Jasper: Waterfalls, Lakes, and Nature Everywhere
From Kamloops, we left the main highways and headed north toward Jasper National Park. On the way, we visited Wells Gray Provincial Park, famous for its rugged waterfalls like Clear Water Falls and Pyramid Creek Falls. We also paused in Blue River, a small town surrounded by nature, before spending the night in Valemount, where our campsite was nestled among the trees with stunning views of Mount Robson, the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies. This part of the journey highlights the raw, untouched beauty of Western Canada and is perfect for anyone looking to experience true wilderness.
Exploring Jasper National Park
Jasper is an outdoor paradise with surprises at every turn. We hiked the Path of the Glacier Trail to see Angel Glacier resting against the cliffs of Mount Edith Cavell. Next, we visited Maligne Canyon, a deep gorge with bridges crossing its rushing waters, and Maligne Lake, a peaceful and scenic spot. At Athabasca Falls, we could feel the immense power of the water up close. Along the way, we saw plenty of wildlife, including deer, squirrels, and even a coyote. While there were warnings about bears, we were lucky not to encounter any. Jasper is a perfect example of why Western Canada is so famous for its natural beauty.
Driving the Icefields Parkway to Banff
One of the highlights of the trip was the drive along the famous Icefields Parkway, connecting Jasper and Banff. Often called one of the most scenic drives in the world, this road offers countless photo opportunities. We stopped at the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, enjoyed the view of Peyto Lake, and hiked through Johnston Canyon. Lake Louise, known for its milky turquoise water and surrounding peaks, was an essential stop. Along this route, you’ll find lakes, glaciers, and waterfalls in rapid succession, making it one of the most unforgettable drives in North America.
City Time in Banff and Ending in Calgary
Banff is a charming mountain town with quaint shops, cafés, and a relaxed atmosphere. We took a short hike up Tunnel Mountain for panoramic views of the valley and also visited the nearby town of Canmore, which is slightly quieter but equally picturesque. Eventually, we drove to Calgary, returned our camper, and caught a flight back to Frankfurt. For those wanting a longer adventure, it’s also possible to return to Vancouver, completing a full loop through the Canadian Rockies.