There is one place that is a must to visit at least once in your lifetime, and that's the Rocky Mountains. These magnificent peaks, valleys and glaciers are breathtaking. While there, why not partake in the local culture, sports and activities, to make your trip that little bit extra special.
The only way to ensure you see as many exciting sights and experience as much as possible is to take a Canadian Rockies road trip. Book yourself a luxurious motorhome, plan out an itinerary and head out on the wide-open roads and experience the most beautiful places Canada has to offer.
There are lots of things to do when you first start planning your Canadian Rockies road trip. It might even seem a little daunting at times. If you look at our pre-planned and thoughtfully designed Canadian motorhome tours, you can take a lot of the effort out of booking your trip.
Once you've booked your motorhome and planned out the logistics of your holiday, you have one very important thing left to consider; the places you want to visit!
Canada has so many of these must-see places to offer that this is a big task in itself! Take some time to narrow down the types of things you and your family want to see and do while on holiday and then see what is available along your route.
If you are stuck for ideas, we have a few of the best to consider.
Where to start your Canadian Rockies road trip
Something that is often overlooked is where you start your motorhome adventure. It might seem like it's just the place you land and sort out your vehicle, but this is where your road trip begins, and this can set the tone for your whole holiday. Ensure you start somewhere that offers you all the practicalities you need (easy airport links, motorhome pickup, somewhere to catch up on missed sleep etc). But, it is also great to start your Canadian Rockies road trip somewhere that offers you a good holiday experience too!
We have two great suggestions for you to consider - Calgary and Vancouver.
Calgary is best known for the Calgary Stampede, but there is far more for you to see and do than this annual attraction. Calgary is a modern, urban cityscape with a great selection of urban lifestyle to enjoy. You can eat in great restaurants and even head out to enjoy the bustling and vibrant music scene. If you want a good look at the whole city, head up to the impressive Calgary Observation Tower.
We have two Canadian Rocky road trips that start and end in Calgary. So if this is where you want to start your road trip, take a look at our Canadian Rockies and Best Of Canadian and American Rockies tours.
Vancouver is another great place to start your trip. This is a cosmopolitan city with plenty of dining and entertainment options. Starting here means you can take a little time to explore the city or rest and relax.
Our Road to the Rockies tour includes a start in Vancouver, and you can choose from a fantastic variety of optional excursions to make your holiday even better.
The best places to visit on your Canadian Rockies road trip
Once you have started planning your trip and got most of the practical things out of the way, it's time to start planning some fun and sightseeing along the way.
Here are some of the best sights and attractions that it would be a shame to miss along the Rocky Mountain route.
Banff National Park
Banff National Park is a breathtaking place where you can hike among the Rockies and marvel at the snow-capped peaks, the crystal blue lakes and the abundant wildlife in the area.
This is one of the most popular places to visit in Canada, and for good reason. It really is as beautiful as people say, but it is something you have to see to appreciate fully.
The Icefield Parkway
The Icefield Parkway is a popular driving route that takes you through some of the best scenery Canada has to offer. The route is nestled between the magnificent mountain peaks and links the stunning Lake Louise to Jasper. Along the way, you can see hundreds of ancient glaciers within sublime valleys and forests. There are plenty of opportunities to take a quick stop and admire the scenery.
Waterton Lakes National Park
The Rocky Mountains gives plenty of opportunities for astounding scenery and outdoor pursuits, and another of these is Waterton Lakes National Park.
This national park was created in 1895 to protect the lakes and forest surrounding them. Stop in the quaint and welcoming waterfront town and then head out to explore the diverse range of flora and fauna. Along your route, you can see towering waterfalls, serene lakes and of course, the ever-present Rocky Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for your visit.
Jasper and Maligne Lake
In Alberta, you can find Jasper National Park. Jasper itself was initially a railway town, and it has managed to retain its small-town charm despite the influx of tourists to the area. Impressive mountains circle the town, and if you head out to explore, there is more wildlife and nature for you to discover.
Within Jasper National Park sits Maligne Lake - a still lake with beautiful azure blue waters with a picture-perfect backdrop of mountains, forests and glaciers. Whilst visiting the lake, take in the panorama and view the exquisite surroundings from a different perspective - aboard a boat!
Bear spotting in Manning Provincial Park
If you take our Road To The Rockies tour, why not visit Manning Provincial Park. This is a quick and easy stop that is perfect for spending a little time relaxing and exploring the array of wildlife in the area. As you hike, you may spot a glimpse of some beavers, marmots, chipmunks and deer. And if you are very lucky, you may see a black bear in the distance. Be careful - never approach one even if you think it might be injured. Read more about what to do if you spot a bear.
Radium Hot Springs
Radium Hot Springs is both a village and a tourist attraction. Located not far from Banff National Park, this is well worth a stop. These hot springs, pools filled with naturally heated mineral water, are said to be beneficial to health. Some people swear by them to help them relax and rejuvenate.
This is a place you might want to spend a little time in. Not only can you take a dip in the springs, but there is plenty to see in the area. There are lots of hikes, trails and wildlife to spot while there.
Wells Gray Provincial Park
One of the most beautiful parks Canada has to offer is undoubtedly Wells Gray Provincial Park. This park has earned the name the waterfall park because of its 43 named waterfalls. Take an hour or two out from driving to head into the Alpine wilderness of the area and appreciate the abundant wildlife and breathtaking scenery. This is the perfect place to forget your worries and stresses.
We have three incredible itineraries for you to choose from. You can see the must-see destinations mentioned here and lots more!
Our Canadian Rockies tour is an escorted road trip that takes in the best the region offers whilst being supported by your friendly and informative tour hosts.
Our Road To The Rockies Tour has been carefully planned to ensure you get the best holiday possible. If you want to see a little more, you can choose our Best of Canadian and American Rockies tour, which takes you on a route starting and ending in Calgary, following the Rocky mountains throughout Canada and America in a loop.
Get in touch with our team to discuss your holiday plans and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.
Departures: 20th May 2025, 2nd Sept 2025, ...
from £6,149 pp.
Departures: May - September
from £3,849 pp.
Departures: May - September
from £5,449 pp.
Departures: April - September
from £7,349 pp.
Departures: May - September
from £4,149 pp.
Departures: May - September
from £4,549 pp.
Departures: May - September
from £4,849 pp.
Got questions? Read our frequently asked questions.
Want to know more? Request a brochure using the form below or contact our team.
Staying Safe in Bear Country Make sure you know what to do if you see a bear when out walking. Read more here.
Peter Stannett
Content Writer
Peter is our content writer and SEO specialist, helping keep our content current and monitoring website traffic.
His content covers all four corners of the globe, across topics like activities, advice, food, culture and history.
More by Peter StannettRecent Blog Posts
-
Guest Post: A Journey through the Parks and Lakes of Western Canada
October 28, 2024 -
Rhythms of the South: Celebrating the Sounds of Southern Soul, Gospel and Funk
October 10, 2024 -
Rhythms of the South: Exploring the Soul of Memphis Blues, Soul and Rock 'n' Roll
October 2, 2024 -
Rhythms of the South: A Journey Through the Jazz and Dixieland Roots of New Orleans
September 24, 2024 -
Rhythms of the South: Discovering the Heart of Country Music in Nashville
August 30, 2024