The Open Road Travel

Best Places To Stop On A Vancouver To Calgary Road Trip Itinerary

As the best road trip from Vancouver to Calgary takes over 10.5 hours and passes endless stunning scenery, you will need to split the drive across multiple days if you want to enjoy it truly. There are several great places to take a break along the route, but the following are the two best places to stop on a Vancouver to Calgary road trip.

Kamloops, British Columbia

Located at the confluence of the North and South Thompson Rivers, Kamloops is a hospitable city nestled among hills, lush forests, and stunning canyon vistas in British Columbia's interior. Known for its enjoyable, sunny weather, it is an excellent spot for outdoor pursuits year-round. Guests can take advantage of the extensive hiking and biking trails in Kenna Cartwright Park, kayak on the Thompson River, or enjoy boating, fishing, and swimming at local lakes.

In addition to its spectacular landscapes, Kamloops boasts a warm, vibrant atmosphere alongside a rich cultural tapestry that highlights its historical and entertainment diversity. The lively downtown area is home to numerous local shops, art galleries, breweries, and eateries. At the same time, the Kamloops Museum and Archives showcase the area's Indigenous culture, pioneering heritage, and railway history.

For those who cherish nature, the BC Wildlife Park provides an opportunity to observe rescued native wildlife, including bears, cougars, and raptors. During the winter months, the city's closeness to Sun Peaks Resort attracts visitors for skiing, snowboarding, and a variety of winter activities.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Kamloops, British Columbia – Riverland Inn & Suites

Nestled along the South Thompson River, Riverland Inn & Suites offers a peaceful and accessible 3-star waterfront retreat in the heart of Kamloops. Each morning, guests can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast to energise themselves before venturing out to explore local parks, vineyards, and hiking trails. After a day filled with activities, the hotel provides excellent amenities for relaxation, including a heated indoor pool, a hot tub, and a picturesque riverside area for picnics or BBQs.

It features a variety of spacious and inviting rooms and suites suitable for couples, families, and groups. Each accommodation is equipped with comfortable beds, free Wi-Fi, flat-screen cable TVs, air conditioning, heating, tea and coffee-making facilities, lounging areas, ironing equipment, hairdryers, and complimentary toiletries.



Many rooms boast remarkable views of the river or the mountains, with some offering balconies, kitchenettes, expansive family suites, or rejuvenating Jacuzzi tubs. Additional services such as free parking, property-wide Wi-Fi, and self-service laundry facilities enhance the stay for both short-term and long-term visitors.

Lake Louise, Alberta

Lake Louise functions as a resort community within Banff National Park, providing convenient access to both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise itself, two of the most renowned attractions in the Canadian Rockies.

An excellent stop on a road trip, Vancouver to Calgary, it is famous globally for its stunning turquoise waters, and it is surrounded by towering mountain peaks and the impressive Victoria Glacier. Not far away, Moraine Lake captivates visitors with its striking blue waters nestled in the stunning Valley of the Ten Peaks, noted as one of Canada’s most photographed landscapes.

The town is a hospitable hub for those wishing to explore the nearby natural beauty, offering a range of accommodations, dining establishments, cafés, and outdoor equipment rentals year-round. Popular summer activities include hiking, canoeing, and wildlife observation. In winter, the region becomes a sought-after destination for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing at the adjacent Lake Louise Ski Resort.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Lake Louise, Alberta – Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is an iconic 4-star hotel located on the scenic shores of Lake Louise. Recognised as one of Canada's foremost luxury mountain resorts, it offers a stunning backdrop of impressive peaks, the Victoria Glacier, and exquisite landscapes throughout the year. A range of fine-dining experiences, elegant lounges, a full-service spa, an indoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and organised outdoor activities are available to guests.

The tastefully decorated guest rooms and suites elegantly blend classic charm with modern conveniences. Standard amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi, tea and coffee facilities, in-room safes, hair dryers, ironing tools, windows that open, voicemail, pay-per-view options, and plush bedding. Depending on the room category, guests can choose accommodations that overlook the mountains, the courtyard, or Lake Louise.



Moreover, numerous premium rooms and suites come equipped with minibars, spacious seating areas, or sofa beds. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise also offers accessible rooms, pet-friendly options, and cribs or rollaway beds available upon request, making it suitable for couples, families, and travellers seeking luxury.

The 9 Best Things To See On A Vancouver To Calgary Road Trip Itinerary

Surrey, British Columbia

Our first stop on the road trip, Vancouver to Calgary, is just a short distance away in the city of Surrey. Ranking among British Columbia’s largest and most diverse cities, second only to Vancouver, Surrey offers a mix of urban experiences, beautiful parks, and convenient access to the surrounding natural landscapes.

Stretching from the Fraser River to Boundary Bay, the city boasts expansive green spaces, such as Green Timbers Urban Forest and the picturesque Crescent Beach, where travellers can walk, cycle, birdwatch, and take in the tranquil waterfront views. Surrey's extensive network of parks and trails is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.

Furthermore, the city presents a lively cultural scene that mirrors its rich multicultural population. Visitors can explore local art galleries and museums, indulge in various international cuisines, and navigate lively shopping areas. Annual events celebrate the city's diverse cultural legacy. Positioned strategically between Vancouver and the U.S. border, Surrey is a fantastic starting point for discovering the Lower Mainland.

Golden Ears Provincial Park

Golden Ears Provincial Park is notable as one of British Columbia’s largest and most popular provincial parks. Featuring breathtaking mountain views, ancient woodlands, rivers, and pristine lakes, it derives its name from its distinctive twin peaks. The park is a sanctuary for outdoor enthusiasts in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, offering a variety of activities, such as photography, casual nature walks, and challenging mountain hikes.



Visitors can engage in swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in Alouette Lake’s clear waters. Fishing enthusiasts and wildlife lovers will appreciate the park’s natural beauty. Its extensive network of well-maintained trails meanders through enormous cedar and hemlock forests, beside rivers and rushing waterfalls, leading up to alpine regions with spectacular vistas. With ample camping facilities, it’s an excellent destination for longer stays, and picnic spots provide ideal locations for relaxing with family and friends.

Abbotsford, British Columbia

Abbotsford, situated in the Fraser Valley, is encircled by rich agricultural land, striking mountains, and the US-Canada border. It is the fifth-largest city in British Columbia and the largest city outside the Vancouver Metro region, seamlessly blending a charming rural ambience with urban amenities and numerous outdoor activities.

The city boasts a strong agricultural tradition, highlighted by seasonal berry farms, vineyards, cideries, and farmers' markets that provide visitors with the chance to enjoy fresh, locally grown produce. Additionally, Abbotsford has a vibrant arts and culture scene, featuring galleries, theatres, and museums that showcase the area’s history and cultural diversity.

Aviation fans can explore the Canadian Museum of Flight, while shoppers can enjoy a variety of distinctive boutiques alongside major retail stores. Moreover, Abbotsford's parks and trails, including those found in Mill Lake Park, present excellent opportunities for walking, biking, and picnicking, and the nearby mountains offer exceptional hiking trails with breathtaking views.

Niskonlith Lake Provincial Park

Niskonlith Lake Provincial Park is a tranquil lakeside haven situated amidst verdant forests and gentle hills in British Columbia's Thompson region. Adjacent to Niskonlith Lake, it attracts campers, anglers, and families looking for a peaceful escape from more crowded locales. The lake boasts clear and calm waters, perfect for various summer activities such as swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.



Fishing enthusiasts have the chance to catch rainbow trout in its waters. The campground provides straightforward lake access and accommodates both tents and recreational vehicles, making it an ideal spot for a weekend break. Scenic short trails wind through the nearby woods, offering visitors the chance to observe local birds and wildlife, all within a serene setting that encourages picnicking, photography, or simply relaxing by the water.

Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park, a stunning wilderness area situated in the Selkirk Mountains, should not be confused with the similarly named park in Montana. Established in 1886 as one of Canada's earliest national parks, it is celebrated for its dramatic peaks, ancient glaciers, vibrant cedar forests, and breathtaking alpine landscapes.

It provides an exceptional opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the natural splendour of British Columbia. The Trans-Canada Highway traverses the area, offering spectacular drives and easy access to various scenic viewpoints and trailheads. Hikers can pick from a variety of trails that range from simple forest walks to challenging alpine paths that showcase glaciers, lush meadows, colourful wildflowers, and striking waterfalls.

Highlighted features include the advanced avalanche-control systems in place and the Rogers Pass National Historic Site, with its exhibits exploring the historical significance of the railway and highway connecting western Canada. The park is also home to wildlife such as mountain goats, black bears, and marmots, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Golden, British Columbia

Golden is a charming mountain town nestled amongst the Rocky and Purcell Mountains in southeast British Columbia. It is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery, attracting outdoor lovers and acting as a portal to some of Canada’s most spectacular national parks. Its highlight is the Golden Skybridge, which features two of Canada’s highest suspension bridges that traverse a stunning canyon, providing impressive vistas of the surrounding peaks.

Guests can enjoy tranquil riverside trails, sweeping mountain panoramas, local cafés, craft breweries, and the inviting spirit typical of small-town life. During the summer months, activities such as hiking, mountain biking, rafting, wildlife observation, and fishing are popular, while the winter season offers exceptional skiing and snowboarding opportunities at the nearby Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.

Wapta Falls

Wapta Falls is considered one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies. Situated at the edge of Yoho National Park and easily accessible from the Trans-Canada Highway, this natural marvel is supplied by the Kicking Horse River. It descends approximately 30 meters (98 feet) over a wide cliff, creating a stunning water curtain that spans nearly 150 meters (500 feet) in width.

Despite its notable dimensions, Wapta Falls is relatively quiet, providing visitors a serene and memorable experience in a beautiful, natural environment. A well-kept hiking trail, approximately 4.5 kilometres (2.8 miles) round trip, meanders through an attractive forest, leading to several impressive viewpoints.



For those seeking a little adventure, it is possible to reach the rocky shore at the base of the falls, where the sound of rushing water and the refreshing mist offer a captivating experience. The location is abundant in wildlife and features stunning mountain landscapes, making it perfect for photography and peaceful walks in nature.

Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park is a remarkable natural area situated in the Canadian Rockies, celebrated for its impressive mountains, vibrant lakes, swift rivers, and ancient forests. Created in 1886, it forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks. Visitors can engage in a variety of outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, canoeing, photography, and wildlife observation, as well as enjoy scenic drives through breathtaking landscapes.

The Trans-Canada Highway runs through the park, providing convenient access to many of its natural wonders. Guests can navigate a selection of hiking paths that lead to fields of alpine wildflowers, stunning viewpoints, and pristine backcountry regions. Among its notable sites are Emerald Lake’s striking turquoise waters, the impressive natural stone arch spanning the Kicking Horse River, and the immense Takakkaw Falls, recognised as one of Canada’s tallest waterfalls. The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, which includes elk, black bears, mountain goats, and marmots.

Banff National Park

Banff National Park, Canada’s oldest national park, is an awe-inspiring destination in the Canadian Rockies. It is famous for its stunning mountain vistas, turquoise glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife. Guests can discover well-known sites like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, the Icefields Parkway, and Johnston Canyon while engaging in various activities such as hiking, canoeing, wildlife observation, skiing, and taking scenic gondola rides.

The picturesque town of Banff provides excellent shopping, dining, and accommodation options, making it a perfect spot for those looking to explore the park. Whether one visits in the summer for outdoor activities or in the winter for premier snow sports, Banff National Park guarantees breathtaking views and memorable experiences year-round.

For an in-depth look at Banff National Park, read our Banff to Jasper road trip itinerary, which doubles as a Banff National Park guide.

Final Thoughts On A Perfect Vancouver To Calgary Road Trip Itinerary

That concludes our guide to planning a perfect Vancouver to Calgary road trip itinerary. You now have all the information you need, including when to go, which route to take, how long it is, where to stay, and what to see along the way. All that’s left is to decide what to take with you, and then you can start booking and budgeting everything, so you can look forward to enjoying it all for yourself as soon as possible.

We also have a helpful guide to the best things to do in Calgary upon your arrival.