ROAD TRIP: Discover Whistler and the Canadian Rockies Road Trip

This unforgettable road trip begins in Vancouver, where you'll explore the vibrant city with visits to Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the stunning Capilano Suspension Bridge. After two days of city sights, you'll drive the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler, where outdoor adventures await, from the Peak 2 Peak Gondola to hiking and biking. Continuing on, you'll spend a day in Sun Peaks before heading to Jasper, where you can marvel at the Icefields Parkway, the stunning Athabasca Falls, and take in panoramic views from the Jasper SkyTram. Following two days of exploration in Jasper, you'll journey south to Lake Louise and Banff, immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon, and Sulphur Mountain, with opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and soaking in the Banff Upper Hot Springs.

After a few days of outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery in Banff, the trip concludes with a short drive to Calgary. Here, you'll experience the city's cultural highlights, including the Calgary Tower and the Glenbow Museum, before wrapping up your adventure. This trip offers a perfect balance of city exploration and outdoor adventure, showcasing the best of British Columbia and Alberta's natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxation. From the vibrant streets of Vancouver to the towering peaks of the Canadian Rockies, it's an unforgettable journey through some of Canada's most iconic destinations.

Arrive in Vancouver and check into your accommodation. Spend the day exploring Stanley Park, where you can bike or walk along the Seawall, visit the Vancouver Aquarium, or simply enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. Head to Granville Island to explore its public market, artisan shops, and waterfront cafes. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner in Yaletown or Gastown, two of Vancouver's trendy neighbourhoods known for their vibrant dining scenes.

Start the day with a visit to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park, where you can walk across the iconic bridge and explore the surrounding rainforest and treetop walkways. Afterward, head up to Grouse Mountain for panoramic views of the city and mountains. You can take the Skyride gondola or, in the summer, hike the Grouse Grind for a more challenging ascent. In the afternoon, explore the Vancouver Art Gallery or stroll along Robson Street for shopping. End your day with a dinner at one of Vancouver's waterfront restaurants, enjoying the beautiful evening views.

Leave Vancouver in the morning and embark on a scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler. Stop at Shannon Falls Provincial Park to take in the stunning waterfall views. Continue the drive, enjoying the views of towering mountains, forests, and ocean. Arrive in Whistler, check into your hotel, and take time to explore Whistler Village, a pedestrian-only area with a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants. In the afternoon, take the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for sweeping views of the mountains, lakes, and valleys. Enjoy a cozy dinner in Whistler Village in the evening.

Spend the day exploring more of Whistler's outdoor offerings. You can hike one of the local trails, such as the Garibaldi Lake or Lost Lake loop, both offering stunning views. If you're into mountain biking, Whistler is known for its world-class biking trails. Alternatively, relax and enjoy some leisure time in Whistler Village, shopping or indulging in a spa treatment. In the evening, unwind with a drink at a local pub or dine in one of the fine restaurants in the village, enjoying the apres-ski vibe.

On Day 5, drive to Sun Peaks, taking in the beautiful scenery along the way. You'll pass through the town of Kamloops, where you can stop for a break and grab lunch. Once you arrive in Sun Peaks, check into your accommodation and take a stroll through the village, known for its cozy alpine charm and outdoor activities. If you're visiting in winter, consider hitting the slopes; in summer, you can enjoy hiking or mountain biking. End the day with a relaxing dinner at one of the village restaurants.

After breakfast, leave Sun Peaks and drive towards Jasper. The drive takes you along Highway 5 and the Yellowhead Highway, with plenty of opportunities to stop and admire the natural beauty, including Mount Robson Provincial Park, where you can snap a photo of the majestic Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Continue your journey to Jasper, arriving in the afternoon. Check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the charming town of Jasper, with its laid-back atmosphere, local shops, and cafes.

Spend the day exploring Jasper National Park, one of Canada's most stunning wilderness areas. Start with a drive along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic routes in the world, and stop at notable points like Athabasca Falls. Continue to the Columbia Icefield, where you can take a guided glacier tour or just enjoy the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, head up the Jasper SkyTram for spectacular panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. You can also explore the Maligne Canyon, one of the park's most famous hiking trails. Finish your day with dinner in Jasper, perhaps at a restaurant overlooking the river or with mountain views.

On Day 8, drive south along the Icefields Parkway towards Lake Louise. The drive offers more opportunities to take in the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies, including stops at Sunwapta Falls and the Athabasca Glacier. Upon arriving at Lake Louise, check into your accommodation and head straight to the lake. Lake Louise is famous for its emerald green water framed by towering mountains, and you can take a relaxing walk around the shoreline or even rent a canoe in the summer months. Enjoy dinner with views of the lake and the surrounding peaks.

Spend the morning enjoying Lake Louise before heading to Banff, which is just a short drive away. You can hike to Lake Agnes Tea House for a scenic view of the lake, or simply relax at the shoreline. After lunch, drive to Banff, and check into your accommodation. In the afternoon, take a ride up the Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views of the Bow Valley and surrounding peaks. Explore Banff town in the evening, where you can enjoy a wide variety of dining options and browse the unique shops.

On Day 10, continue exploring Banff National Park. Start by visiting Moraine Lake, one of the most photographed lakes in the world, and take a walk along its shoreline or hike one of the nearby trails. Afterward, take a drive along the Bow Valley Parkway, making stops at scenic viewpoints like Peyto Lake and Mistaya Canyon. For those interested in hiking, the Johnston Canyon Trail is another must-see. In the evening, relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs or enjoy dinner in Banff, savouring local specialties.

Take another day to explore Banff National Park. You can take a wildlife tour, hike the Sunshine Meadows, or explore the stunning Lake Minnewanka, where you can rent a boat or enjoy a lakeside picnic. For those seeking more adventure, try a photography tour to capture the beauty of the area or simply enjoy Banff's many galleries and museums. In the evening, enjoy a final dinner in Banff, perhaps at a mountain-view restaurant with a cozy atmosphere.

On Day 12, drive south to Calgary, passing through the town of Canmore. Take some time to explore Canmore's charming downtown before continuing to Calgary. Once in the city, visit the Calgary Tower for sweeping views of the skyline and the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, explore the Glenbow Museum, which showcases Canadian history and art, or visit the Calgary Zoo if you're an animal lover. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner in downtown Calgary's bustling food scene, with a variety of restaurants offering international cuisine.

On your final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast or visit Prince Island Park for a peaceful walk. If time permits, do some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Calgary before heading to the Calgary International Airport for your departure.