Road Trip from Calgary to the Canadian Rockies: What to See and Where to Go

Road Trip from Calgary to the Canadian Rockies: What to See and Where to Go

Calgary is known as the gateway to the glorious Canadian Rockies. The best way to explore them is by getting into a car and onto the road. Featuring plenty of ‘wow’ moments, breathtaking scenery, and an occasional bear, this is one road you’ll want to travel in different seasons, time and again. 

How Far Is It From Calgary To The Canadian Rockies?

The Canadian Rockies are about an hour and a half drive west of Calgary. Once you’re on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) and heading towards Banff National Park, you’ll start seeing the gorgeous mountain views you are made the trip for.

How Long Should Your Road Trip In The Canadian Rockies Be?

How long is a piece of string? You can take in some of the highlights with a quick getaway from Calgary for two or three days if you are pinched for time. To get in as many sights, hikes, and outdoor sports as possible without feeling rushed, plan to be on the road for a week or more. 

If you’re planning the shorter jaunt, you can set up your base at Canmore to check out the Three Sisters, Banff National Park, and Lake Louise. An itinerary for a 7-day trip that includes some time to explore Calgary looks something like this: Calgary – Banff – Jasper – Radium Hot Springs – Calgary. 

To really make the most of it, stretch your holiday to 10 days so you don’t have to compromise on things to see!

Do I Need Separate Park Passes For Banff and Jasper?

No, you do not need separate park passes for Banff and Jasper. A single Parks Canada pass grants access to multiple national parks, including Banff, Jasper, Yoho, Kootenay, Waterton Lakes, Revelstoke, Glacier, and Elk Island. 

Day passes are ideal if you’re visiting Canada for a short while or usually prefer city breaks. Otherwise, consider getting a Discovery pass which offers unlimited access to over 100 national parks and historic sites across Canada for a year. 

The cost to enter the National Parks depends on the number of people in your vehicle and how many days you plan to stay. The more people you’re travelling with, the cheaper it is per head!

Top Stops on a Calgary to Canadian Rockies Road Trip

Canmore

Canmore is a great place to stop for a coffee or a night. It’s picturesque and quieter than Banff. The Grassi Lakes Trail offers the Grassi Lake Upper hike which is a short stroller-friendly hike that ends in stunning views. You can also grab great views of the Three Sisters mountains from the Canmore Bridge or Policeman’s Creek.

Banff

It’s a good idea to book your accommodation well in advance in Banff, especially in the summer months and ski season. With beautiful glacial lakes and unbelievable views, Banff is a must-stop

Take the Banff Gondola up the steep mountainside to the summit of Sulphur Mountain and enjoy the wildflowers in summer and walk a little further to Sanson Peak. Soak your worries away in Banff Hot Springs, and don’t forget to buy bear spray (if you haven’t already) for your adventures ahead. Get a boat ride in on Lake Minnewanka

Lake Louise

Famous for its postcard-perfect turquoise water, Lake Louise is breathtaking year-round. Hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House, rent a canoe for an unforgettable paddle, or stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for the ultimate luxurious experience. Lake Louise is also a great place to fuel your car up for the rest of your journey.

Icefields Parkway (Highway 93)

Get on the road early to drive this route to Jasper. Although the journey only takes three hours non-stop, account for traffic and all the great viewpoints you’ll want to stop at, including: 

• Bow Lake
• Peyto Lake Lookout
• Athabasca Glacier and Columbia Icefield Skywalk
• Sunwapta Falls and Athabasca Falls

Jasper

That bear spray you bought can come in handy at Jasper, known for its wildlife. Ride the Jasper SkyTram, relax at Miette Hot Springs, or explore Maligne Lake. Do the Edith Cavell Meadows hike to the Angel Glacier or the Maligne Canyon to see some wildlife. 

A five-hour drive brings you back to Calgary.

Tips for a Smooth Road Trip

• Rent a car in Calgary: Book a reliable vehicle with plenty of space for gear—available at Ascent Car Rental near the Calgary Airport.
• Fill up on gas in Canmore or Lake Louise: there are long stretches without stations.
• Pack layers: Mountain weather changes quickly, even in summer.
• Book accommodations early: especially in Banff and Jasper during peak months.

Ascent Car Rental has a wide range of reliable, road-trip-ready vehicles including SUVs to see you safely through your adventure in the Canadian Rockies. Book your rental today!