From Majestic Mountains to Coastal Splendour: An Unforgettable Journey from Calgary to Vancouver
Calgary. We made it! Finally arrived in Banff after a 90 minute drive from Calgary airport to blazing sunshine after a very long day travelling. Huge thanks to Air Canada for a seamless flight and to Banff Aspen lodge for a lovely room and warm welcome. Trying to stay awake for as long as possible, the kids are long gone. First long haul flight for them and they were superstars. 5pm here, 7 hours behind the UK. Time to crack open a beer and admire the view.
Banff National Park: Banff National Park is a natural wonderland that will leave you breathless. Explore the picturesque town of Banff, surrounded by majestic peaks. Take a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for incredible vistas and rejuvenate in the warm waters of Banff Upper Hot Springs.
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake: Don't miss the iconic Lake Louise and its stunning turquoise waters, as well as Moraine Lake with its awe-inspiring Valley of the Ten Peaks. Take a Gondola lift from the ski resort for amazing views of the surrounding area, and you may even spot a bear from the gondola or charlift!
Jasper National Park: Continue your journey to Jasper National Park, the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Drive along the renowned Icefields Parkway, where glaciers, emerald lakes, and towering mountains abound. Make sure to stop at the Columbia Icefield, where you can take an unforgettable ride on the Ice Explorer and walk on the Athabasca Glacier. Discover the beauty of Maligne Lake and its famed Spirit Island, and keep an eye out for wildlife encounters along the way. The Icefields Parkway is a stunning drive, and it would take a month to explore all the trails, waterfalls and lakes along the route. Do not miss however, Peyto lake and Bow lake,
Clearwater: As you leave Jasper, head south towards Clearwater, a small town nestled in the heart of British Columbia's Interior region. Clearwater is the gateway to Wells Gray Provincial Park, known for its pristine waterfalls, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife. Don't miss the breathtaking Helmcken Falls, Dawson Falls, and the picturesque views from the Clearwater Lake viewpoint. Dive on in, its said there's turtles in this here lake, although I didn't see any. I had the lake all to myself, apart from a few geese. Canada Geese, naturally.
Whistler: Continuing west, make your way to the world-renowned mountain resort of Whistler. Nestled in the Coast Mountains, Whistler offers a myriad of outdoor activities year-round. In summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, ziplining and golfing amidst stunning alpine scenery. In winter, hit the slopes of Whistler Blackcomb, one of North America's premier ski destinations. Explore the vibrant village, indulge in gourmet dining, and experience the thrill of adventure in this mountain paradise. We didn't want to leave!
Vancouver: Conclude your journey in the vibrant coastal city of Vancouver. On the way visit the Sea to Sky Gondola at Squamish. Embrace the cosmopolitan atmosphere as you explore neighbourhoods like Gastown, Yaletown, and Granville Island. Discover the natural beauty of Stanley Park, a sprawling urban oasis with scenic views of the city and the Pacific Ocean. Stroll along the seawall, visit the historic Capilano Suspension Bridge, and soak in the lively atmosphere of Robson Street. Don't miss Grouse Mountain either- with its trails, lumberjack shows, high ropes course and resident Grizzly Bears. Enjoy world-class dining, diverse cultural experiences, and the beautiful beaches that Vancouver has to offer. Conclusion: A road trip from Calgary to Vancouver is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that combines the majestic mountains of the Canadian Rockies with the coastal splendour of Vancouver. From the breathtaking beauty of Banff and Jasper National Parks to the tranquility of Clearwater and the excitement of Whistler, this journey promises unforgettable experiences and awe-inspiring vistas at every turn. As you reach the vibrant city of Vancouver, you'll be captivated by its lively ambiance and coastal charm. So, pack your bags, hit the road, and let this epic journey through Western Canada create memories that will last a lifetime.
