The best Western Canada tour

Synonymous with adventure and the great outdoors, Canadian road trips are the stuff of dreams for many a traveller.

So if you're one of those who would love to experience the breathtaking national parks and vibrant cities of Western Canada, here's an epic Western Canada tour to help inspire you!

Map of the best Western Canada tour

Road trip summary

Day 1 : Vancouver

Welcome to Vancouver! This modern, cosmopolitan city has a lot to offer and is a must for any Western Canada road trip. There's no need for a car - the most practical and enjoyable way to get around is to take your time and explore on foot.

Considered Vancouver's historic district, Gastown is also the trendiest part of the city. Be sure to take a photo of its famous steam clock at the corner of Cambie and Water Street, then try one of the area's many cafés and restaurants.

Once you've had a bite to eat, go for a stroll in Stanley Park. This green oasis in the heart of the city is the perfect place to take a nature break between visits. Don't miss the 9 totem poles near Brockton Point to learn more about the fascinating culture of Canada's First Nations.

Before leaving Vancouver, pick up your car from the rental company and then drive to the Capilano Suspension Bridge. From the top of this 137 m long, 70 m high suspension bridge, you'll enjoy a splendid view of the forest of Capilano River Regional Park.

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• Road Trip
• 19 days

Days 2-3 : Okanagan (402 km)

The Okanagan Valley, renowned for its vineyards and orchards, is well worth a visit. Located between Vancouver and Calgary, it's a haven of peace and tranquillity that's enjoyable to explore. And to top it all off, you'll find sunshine and good wine!

Start with a dip in the clear waters of Lake Okanagan in Kelowna, then roll out your towel on the white sands of Hot Sands Beach. Continue with a visit to nearby Waterfront Park, a circular park offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventure and relaxation.

The Okanagan Valley has more wineries per square kilometer than anywhere else in Canada. Near Kelowna, I particularly recommend:

• Mission Hill Family Estate
• Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards
• Quail’s Gate Winery

You can taste the wines, visit the cellars, and learn lots of fascinating facts about the different grape varieties.

Hikers and cyclists should then head for Knox Mountain Park. Take the trails to the top and keep your eyes peeled: you could come face to face with a lynx. At the top, you'll have a stunning view of Okanagan Lake... and it's even better if you're there at sunset!

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Day 4 : Revelstoke (199 km)

It's time to hit the road again for Revelstoke. Renowned in winter for its ski slopes, this small town in British Columbia is also very pleasant in summer.

You can't come here without visiting Mount Revelstoke National Park. Start by taking the superb scenic Meadows in the Sky Parkway. This winding 26 km route offers great views of the surrounding wilderness, including magnificent sub-alpine flower meadows. Early August is the best time to enjoy it.

Giant Cedars Trail

Distance (round trip): 0.5 km
Time (round trip): 15 minutes
Level: easy
Elevation gain: 29 metres

This easy, accessible hike is a short walk over a wooden footbridge that takes you to the foot of 500-year-old giant cedars.

Then head a little further east to Glacier National Park. Here you'll discover rugged mountains and a host of plant and animal species typical of the region.

Day 5 : Lake Louise (224 km)

Today will be a lovely day. Nicknamed the Jewel of Canada, Lake Louise is a superb emerald-blue lake surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains. It's definitely one of the most beautiful landscapes in Western Canada.

To make the most of this picture-postcard setting, treat yourself to a night at the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel. The views of Lake Louise and the Canadian Rockies are simply breathtaking. If your budget doesn't allow you to stay overnight, come take a break and enjoy afternoon tea and pastries.

When it comes to hiking, don't miss the Plain of Six Glaciers and Lake Agnes Tea House.

The Plain of Six Glaciers

Distance (round trip) : 10.6 km
Time (round trip) : 4-5 h
Level: Intermediate
Elevation gain: 365 metres

This trail is ideal for exploring the surrounding area. This little gem nestled in the heart of the high mountains is 5.3 km long (one way only), with a 365-metre elevation gain. Allow approximately 4-5 hours round trip for this hike.

Lake Agnes Tea House

Distance (round trip): 7.4 km
Time: 3 hrs (avg.)
Level: Intermediate
Elevation gain: 435 m

The Lake Agnes Tea House hike is just as fabulous. The trail starts right next to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. As you climb, you'll have lovely views of Mirror Lake and Lake Agnes as well as Lake Louise from above. When you reach Lake Agnes, recharge your batteries with one of their famous tea biscuits and a cup of tea, served in the iconic Lake Agnes Tea House.

Days 6-7 : Banff (58 km)

Nestled in the heart of the Rockies, Banff is both an alpine village and an exceptional national park. The scenery is a mix of mountains, glaciers, forests, meadows and rivers. Photographers are in for a treat!

With its many small shops, restaurants and Cascade Mountain as a backdrop, the village of Banff looks like a postcard. I recommend taking Highway 1A from Lake Louise to Banff to try and spot wildlife such as black bears, elk and grizzly bears on the side of the road, ideally at dawn or just before dusk.

Johnston Canyon

Distance (round trip): 2.2 km
Time (round trip): 1 hr
Level: easy
Elevation gain: 30 m

This popular hike leading to Johnston Canyon features a creek and waterfalls of exceptional beauty.

Continue your exploration of Banff National Park by taking the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain. Enjoy the 360° view from the panoramic observation deck.

And don't leave Banff without trying the Upper Hot Springs. It feels great to relax in this public pool fed by hot springs after a day's hiking!

Days 8-10 : Jasper (298 km)

Our best Western Canada tour continues with Jasper National Park! Did you know that this national park is the largest in the Canadian Rockies, with more than 1,200 kilometres of hiking trails to explore?

To get there, take the extremely scenic Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Jasper. You'll find a number of particularly impressive high vantage points.

Here are just a few of the must-see stops:

• Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefield
• Peyto Lake
• Bow Lake
• Athabasca Falls

Many wild animals live and roam freely in this vast ecosystem. Keep your eyes peeled for elk, bighorn sheep, deer and grizzly bears along the way.

Make magnificent memories with a cruise on Maligne Lake. This excursion will take you to Spirit Island, the most photographed island in the world. On the drive between Jasper and Maligne Lake, you'll have plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, especially black bears and bighorn sheep.

Soar to new heights aboard the Jasper SkyTram. A stunning panorama will unfold before you, with the best view of the Rockies, especially at sunset.

Days 11-12 : Wells Gray Provincial Park (348 km)

Nicknamed the Waterfall Park, Wells Gray Provincial Park is a natural treasure that's well worth a visit during your trip to Canada. Less frequented by tourists, it boasts an unspoiled wilderness.

The park is home to many black bears, making it one of the best places in the region to see them. To increase your chances of spotting a bear, come early in the morning or at the end of the day.

Be sure to visit Helmcken Falls, widely considered to be the most beautiful waterfall in Western Canada. Expect to be impressed by the flow of water and the surrounding greenery. The other waterfall you won't want to miss is Bailey's Chute. You can even watch the salmon swim up the river in August and September.

For a one-of-a-kind experience, go canoeing on Clearwater Lake. Paddling these crystal-clear waters is better than any meditation session! The surrounding nature inspires contemplation and serenity.

Sheila Lake hike

Distance (round trip): 6 km
Time (round trip): 4 hrs
Level: Moderate
Elevation gain: 200 m

This easy trail is a great way to enjoy the beautiful sub-alpine meadows. It's just a 1 km walk from the parking area. The trail climbs gently, crossing several small streams before emerging into the meadows. It continues as far as Sheila Lake.

If you still have a little time, don't hesitate to take a photo safari. This excursion through wild rivers and lakes will give you the chance to see many animals such as bears, eagles, moose and falcons in their natural habitat.

Days 13-14 : Whistler (450 km)

The town of Whistler in British Columbia is a destination of choice for nature lovers and outdoor sports enthusiasts. Known for its famous ski resort, Whistler has much more to offer than just snowy slopes.

In summer, the town is transformed into a veritable paradise for hikers and cyclists with its many mountain bike and hiking trails. It's the perfect place to enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Water sports enthusiasts will also find plenty to do, with activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding and rafting available on the surrounding rivers. For those who prefer to take it easy, Whistler also abounds in spas, restaurants and shops.

In short, it's a must-see destination for all travellers looking for adventure and relaxation in a breathtaking natural setting.

Days 15-17 : Pacific Rim (371 km)

Your Western Canada tour continues in the magnificent Pacific Rim region on Vancouver Island. If you like marine mammals, you'll be interested to know that grey whales pass through the area's coastal waters and near its beaches every spring.

During your three days here, take the opportunity to explore the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Take one of the many hiking trails through this lush, misty rainforest.

At the end of the day, head for Long Beach. This immense stretch of sand is one of the most beautiful beaches in Western Canada. While surfers enjoy riding the waves, visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll with their feet in the sand. Don't miss the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

If you love surfing or want to try it out, Tofino is the place to be. Reputed to be the best surfing spot in North America, it's also a charming little town and one of the most beautiful villages in Western Canada.

Big Tree Trail

Distance (round trip): 2.4 km or 4.2 km (loop)
Time (round trip): 1 hr or 2.5 hrs
Level: easy

For an original hike, take a sea kayak out to Meares Island. Once there, the Big Tree Trail will take you to the foot of the largest cedar on the west coast. The surrounding trees are about 1,500 years old: pretty impressive, don't you think?

Days 18-19 : Victoria (317 km)

Your trip continues in lovely Victoria on Vancouver Island. Victoria is not only the capital of British Columbia, but also a popular tourist destination for travellers seeking relaxation and adventure.

Known for its British charm and Victorian architecture, the city offers a wide range of activities.

Nature lovers can go on an orca watching safari to see marine mammals. History buffs may prefer to take a stroll along the Inner Harbour and through the historic James Bay district, followed by a visit to the majestic Craigdarroch Castle.

Victoria is also famous for Beacon Hill Park and its enchanting gardens. Foodies will not be disappointed, with a wide variety of restaurants offering local and international dishes, as well as numerous farmers' markets. While in Victoria, be sure to indulge in the British tradition of afternoon tea.

Victoria is a must for travellers looking for an authentic experience full of discoveries.

Days 20-21 : Vancouver (117 km)

For your last couple of days in Western Canada, enjoy the gentle pace of life in Vancouver. Start with a visit to Canada Place. This Vancouver landmark has become a symbolic national site and hosts many events throughout the year.

If you'd like to do a bit of shopping to pick up some souvenirs for your loved ones (or just treat yourself), head to Robson Street and Broadway Avenue, Vancouver's main shopping streets.

Next, make your way to Granville Island, which is actually more of a peninsula than an island. On weekends, street musicians and fish & chip vendors set the mood. Don't miss the Granville Island Public Market. This market has become a veritable institution, and has plenty of local products to prepare a delicious picnic.

On that tasty note, we end our best Western Canada tour.

I hope that this Western Canada itinerary has given you some great ideas for visits and hikes! If you have any other favourite places to share, don't hesitate to tell us about them in comments below.