Western Canada road trip (detailed itinerary + photos)

A trip to Western Canada is our vast landscapes in their purest form.

From Vancouver to the Rockies, here is a perfect itinerary to discover the greatest wonders of the West!

Overview of the Western Canada tour

Day 1: Vancouver

Welcome to the West! Start your day in Vancouver with a must-visit to Stanley Park, a vast green space offering a real breath of fresh air in the heart of the city. Rent a bike or walk along the Seawall to enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains. Don’t miss the Lost Lagoon and the impressive Hollow Tree for peaceful moments in nature. If you love art, the totems and monuments scattered throughout the park are fascinating testimonies of the region's First Nations.

After this walk, head to Gastown, Vancouver’s historic district. Explore the trendy boutiques, art galleries, and stop to admire the famous Steam Clock that whistles every 15 minutes. This area is also the perfect place to enjoy a coffee or do some shopping in its unique stores.

For lunch, stop at Salmon N’ Bannock, an indigenous bistro where you can taste local dishes and discover specialties like bannock bread and wild salmon, one of the region's great prides. This restaurant offers an authentic culinary experience respectful of local traditions.

After lunch, take a ferry or bus to Granville Island, a lively peninsula perfect for an afternoon stroll. Visit the Granville Island Public Market, a must-see to discover local products, fresh fruits, artisanal cheeses, and pastries. Take the opportunity to compose a picnic and settle near the waterfront. You can also explore the craft shops and perhaps catch a street performance or an impromptu concert.

In the evening, opt for dinner at Blue Water Cafe & Raw Bar, located in the trendy Yaletown district. This restaurant is renowned for its fresh seafood and refined dishes. If you're a gourmet lover, this place is perfect to end your day in style, accompanied by an exceptional selection of wines.

In one day, Vancouver offers you a perfect blend of nature, history, culture, and gastronomy, all in a dynamic and welcoming urban setting.

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Day 2: Whistler

Today, head to Whistler! Leave early and make a stop at the Capilano Suspension Bridge, located a short distance from downtown. This impressive 137-meter-long suspension bridge offers a spectacular view of the lush forest below. Continue the adventure with the Treetops Adventure, a series of suspension bridges among the tree canopies, ideal for nature lovers.

Once at your destination, explore the charming Whistler Village, nestled at the base of Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Stroll through its pedestrian streets, where you'll find shops, cafes, and art galleries. It's also the perfect starting point for your outdoor adventures. If you prefer not to walk, the Route 5 shuttle allows you to quickly travel around the village.

Next, head to the famous Peak 2 Peak Gondola, which connects the peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb in 11 minutes. With its 4.4 km length and breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains, this gondola is a unique experience. Take the time to enjoy the spectacular landscape while crossing the peaks 436 meters above the ground.

After your meal, head to Lost Lake for a relaxing afternoon. This peaceful lake, surrounded by hiking trails, is ideal for a picnic or a walk in nature. During the summer months, the Route 8 shuttle takes you there directly from the village.

To end the day beautifully, embark on a seaplane flight over Garibaldi Provincial Park. This panoramic tour lets you fly over majestic glaciers, turquoise lakes, and breathtaking mountain ridges. If you're lucky, you might see black bears or mountain goats below. It's an unforgettable adventure that will mark your visit to Whistler.

For dinner, opt for a gourmet experience at Rimrock Cafe & Oyster Bar, a must for savoring fresh seafood and game meats in an elegant and rustic atmosphere. This restaurant regularly ranks among the best in Whistler and serves as the perfect setting to end a busy day.

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Days 3-4: Wells Gray Park

Plan an early departure for your longest drive of the tour! Today you are heading to one of the most untouched parks in the West. Lesser-known than the great parks of the Rockies, Wells Gray is famous for its spectacular waterfalls.

Start your first day with a visit to the Helmcken Falls, one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Western Canada. Accessible via a short trail, this 141-meter waterfall offers a spectacular panorama, especially in the late afternoon when the sun lights up the fall.

Next, head to the Spahats Falls, which plunge into a deep canyon. An easy short hike leads you to a viewpoint where you can admire the 60-meter fall surrounded by lush forests. It's a perfect spot for taking photos and enjoying the tranquility of the surrounding nature.

Continue your waterfall discovery with a short 10-minute walk to discover Dawson Falls, a tiered waterfall that descends over 90 meters. The trail crosses an ancient forest before offering two remarkable viewpoints on the rushing river. This walk is ideal for continuing to explore the wild beauty of the park.

End your day with a walk to Bailey's Chute to watch the salmon swimming upstream, a fascinating sight visible in August and September. The observation platform is easily accessible from the parking lot.

For dinner, head to the The Painted Turtle Restaurant on the shore of Dutch Lake. Enjoy the terrace to admire the scenery while savoring a varied meal in a magnificent natural setting.

For your second day, start with a hike to Sheila Lake. This 6 km round-trip trail will take you through beautiful subalpine meadows and streams before arriving at Sheila Lake, a peaceful place where you can rest before retracing your steps. If you're ready for an additional adventure, you can extend your hike to Skyline Ridge for a spectacular panoramic view.

After your hike, grab a quick lunch at Backcountry Bowls, a food truck offering healthy and tasty vegan dishes, perfect for a refreshing break before continuing your activities.

In the afternoon, go for a canoe excursion on Clearwater Lake. This activity offers you a moment of calm and serenity on the lake's crystal-clear waters, with a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. It's also an ideal opportunity to observe wildlife.

If you're looking for a bit more action, try a session of rafting on the Clearwater River, an exhilarating activity that will give you a unique perspective on the park.

End your stay with dinner at the Hop “N” Hog Tap & Smokehouse, a local favorite known for its smoked meats and lively barbecue evenings. It's the perfect place to enjoy one last convivial meal before leaving Wells Gray.

Day 5: Revelstoke

Continue your road trip by heading to Revelstoke. Start with a visit to the Revelstoke Dam, one of the largest hydroelectric dams in British Columbia. The dam's interpretive center is located 5 km north of the city and is open during the summer season, from late May to early September. You can learn more about electricity production in the region while enjoying an impressive view from the top of the dam.

After this informative visit, head to Begbie Falls, located a few minutes south of Revelstoke. These beautiful falls are found in a wet forest, ideal for a relaxing hike. The access road is narrow and not recommended for RVs, but once on site, you'll be rewarded by the beauty of the waterfalls and a perfect natural setting for a picnic. Take the time to capture some photos of this peaceful site.

Next, spend your afternoon exploring the Mount Revelstoke National Park by taking the Meadows-in-the-Sky Parkway. This scenic road winds through dense forests and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and alpine meadows. At the top, you'll have the opportunity to do a short hike while enjoying the tranquility of the area and the spectacular scenery. This drive is particularly beautiful between June and September, when the alpine flowers are in full bloom.

To close your day, return to town and make a stop at the Woolsey Creek Bistro, a local restaurant known for its dishes made with fresh and regional ingredients. Enjoy inventive cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 6: Lake Louise

Today you reach the Rockies and their spectacular lakes! Start your visit to Lake Louise by going to admire it. Often considered the jewel of Canada, this emerald lake is surrounded by majestic mountains with snow-capped peaks, offering a postcard-perfect setting not to be missed. A leisurely walk on the 2-kilometer trail along the lake will allow you to admire the landscape, with the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise on one side and the Victoria Glacier on the other. Take the time to capture these spectacular views, especially at sunrise, when the colors are at their peak.

After exploring the lakeshore, head to the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail. This 10.6 km round-trip trail (about 4-5 hours of walking) will take you through breathtaking alpine panoramas with a moderate elevation gain of 365 meters. Once you reach 2,100 meters in altitude, you can even enjoy tea in a small mountain teahouse, offering a well-deserved break while enjoying views of the glaciers. This hike is ideal for those who want to explore more of the Lake Louise area while discovering spectacular landscapes.

After your hike, take a moment to visit Moraine Lake, located about 14 kilometers from Lake Louise in the Valley of Ten Peaks. Although the road leading to the lake is now closed to private vehicles, it is possible to get there by shuttle. Moraine Lake is famous for its vibrant turquoise water, particularly stunning in June. This site is considered by many as one of the most beautiful in the Canadian Rockies.

End your day with dinner at the Fairview Bar & Restaurant at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, which offers refined dishes while overlooking the lake. It's the ideal place to enjoy a good meal while taking one last look at the natural beauty of this exceptional place.

Days 7-9: Banff

Here you are at your penultimate destination, Banff National Park and its countless activities! Start your first day in Banff by exploring the Village of Banff, located in the heart of the majestic Canadian Rockies. Take your time to stroll along Banff Avenue, where you will discover charming shops, cafes, and restaurants, all with the magnificent backdrop of Mount Cascade. This alpine village offers you a first immersion into the atmosphere of Banff.

Next, take the Banff Gondola to reach the summit of Mount Sulphur. In just 8 minutes, you'll be at an altitude of 2,281 meters, where a spectacular panoramic view awaits you. From the observation deck or the Ridgetop Boardwalk, you can admire breathtaking alpine scenery, with a 360-degree view of the mountains and the Bow Valley.

For lunch, stop by Wild Flour Banff’s Artisan Bakery Café, known for its homemade dishes, artisan pastries, and coffee. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a light and healthy meal before continuing your exploration.

In the afternoon, relax at the Upper Hot Springs, near Mount Sulphur. These natural hot springs, at an altitude of 1,585 meters, offer a soothing setting and a splendid view of the surrounding valley. It's the perfect place to end your first day in total relaxation.

Your second day begins with a nature adventure at Johnston Canyon, 30 minutes from Banff. The 2.2 km trail (round trip) will lead you to the Lower Falls, an impressive waterfall nestled in a canyon surrounded by rocky walls. The path is accessible to all levels of hikers and offers walkways overlooking the creek for a breathtaking view.

After this beautiful hike, have lunch at the Bear Street Tavern, where you can enjoy delicious pizza or salad in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

In the afternoon, discover the Bow Falls, easily accessible just a few minutes from downtown Banff. These massive waterfalls are impressive and ideal for a tranquil riverside walk or a pause to enjoy nature.

End the day with a visit to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, where the history of Canada’s national parks began. Discover the underground cave and hot springs that gave birth to the national park system in Canada. Guided tours are offered to immerse you in the fascinating history of this region.

For your third day, take a hike on Tunnel Mountain, accessible from Banff. This trail offers an exceptional panoramic view of the village of Banff, the Bow River, and the surrounding mountains. The trail is of moderate length and allows you to enjoy the magnificent scenery along the way, with an elevation gain accessible to intermediate hikers.

For lunch, take a break at Juniper Bistro, where you'll enjoy dishes made with local ingredients, in a cozy setting with mountain views. This restaurant is one of the highest-rated in Banff for its ambiance and local cuisine.

In the afternoon, delve deeper into the area's history with a visit to the historic Banff Springs Hotel, dubbed the "Castle in the Rockies". This iconic hotel, built in the 19th century, is an impressive example of luxury Canadian hotel architecture and offers a fascinating glimpse into Banff's history.

Finally, end your stay with a walk along the Bow River or in the surrounding gardens of Banff for a relaxing end of day before your departure.

Day 10: Calgary

Plan for an early departure in order to enjoy Calgary before your return flight. A visit to the Calgary Tower, the highest observation point in the city, is a must. From there, you will have a 360° view of Calgary and the Rockies on the horizon. For the bravest, walk on the glass floor for a unique sensation. 

After the Tower, head to the Glenbow Museum, located a short walk away. Although the main building is under renovation, the temporary exhibitions at the temporary location (Glenbow at the Edison) will give you an insight into Canadian history and culture, with a particular focus on the landscapes and peoples of Western Canada.

For lunch, cross the Peace Bridge, a spectacular pedestrian bridge designed by Santiago Calatrava. By crossing the Bow River, you will enjoy a beautiful view of the water and downtown. Once on the other side, head to Prince’s Island Park, an urban oasis where you can stroll and watch locals unwind.

For a memorable lunch, sit down at the River Café, located in the heart of the park, along the Bow River. This restaurant is renowned for its Canadian seasonal cuisine and commitment to local producers. With its carefully prepared dishes and enchanting setting, it's the perfect place for a relaxing culinary moment.

In the afternoon, explore Stephen Avenue Walk (8th Avenue), a lively pedestrian street that runs through downtown. This area is full of shops, cafes, and galleries where you can shop, buy souvenirs, and enjoy Calgary's vibrant atmosphere. The action is concentrated between 1st Street SE and 4th Street SW.

Then, it's already time to leave the grandeur of Western Canada, with your mind filled with memories that will last a lifetime! 

There you go! You are ready to discover all the beauty of the West! For any questions, feel free to express yourself in the comment section below.