Make your way from Calgary to Jasper on the most scenic route through the Rocky Mountains.
This itinerary is great for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking breathtaking landscapes.
At a glance
- 3 day itinerary
- 485 km (301 mi) total distance
- 6 hrs 22 mins drive time
- Your starting point is in Calgary
Cave and Basin National Historic Site
This site has held significance for Indigenous Peoples since time immemorial. Three railway workers stumbled upon it in 1883, and the events that followed resulted in Canada’s first national park. It’s now a gathering place to connect visitors to the land and share stories of conservation. The Thermal Waters Pass is available for discounted combined entry at Cave and Basin and Banff Upper Hot Springs.
Banff Gondola
Experience a world of adventure and beauty at the summit of Banff’s Sulphur Mountain. Exploration abounds at the gondola, from a theatre and interpretive centre inside to epic snowy views from the rooftop deck and mountain boardwalk outside.
Lunch at Sky Bistro
Overlooking Banff on the summit of Sulphur Mountain, Sky Bistro serves locally inspired cuisine paired with panoramic views of six Rocky Mountain ranges. Ride to the top aboard the Banff Gondola before enjoying dishes inspired by Canadian culinary traditions, made from fresh regional ingredients.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Visit Banff Upper Hot Springs during your trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Banff National Park. The natural hot mineral springs are among the top attractions in the Canadian Rockies. Soak in the historic bathhouse, originally built in 1886, while you take in incredible mountain views. The Thermal Waters Pass is available for discounted combined entry at Banff Upper Hot Springs and Cave and Basin.
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
Located in the heart of Banff National Park, the world-famous Fairmont Banff Springs hotel stands as a landmark in the picturesque alpine town of Banff. Canada's "Castle in the Rockies” has been providing legendary hospitality to guests for more than 130 years.
Carter-Ryan Gallery and Live Art Venue - Banff
Co-owned by Indigenous artist Jason Carter and creative director Bridget Ryan, this stunning chain of galleries is where art and theatre combine. The Banff location, in particular, boasts a broad collection of Carter’s work, showcasing his skill and unique, bold style. Discover soapstone sculptures, admire colourful paintings, and immerse yourself in local, contemporary visual art.
Johnston Canyon
Banff National Park's most popular hiking destination takes you into the depths of a canyon along catwalks and amongst spectacular waterfalls. See the impressive lower falls and walk through a tunnel to get an even closer look at the powerful effects of water. An early morning start may help you avoid the crowds.
Lake Louise Gondola
Ascend to one of Banff National Park’s most incredible views where grizzly bears and other local wildlife are seen almost daily. From the top, at 2,088m (6,850ft) the gondola ride is only the start of your adventure. Make your way to the viewing platform for a panoramic view that will take your breath away.
Fairmont Château Lake Louise
On the shore of Lake Louise, surrounded by soaring mountain peaks and the majestic Victoria Glacier, sits the Fairmont Château Lake Louise. This spectacular mountain resort in the heart of Banff National Park and the Canadian Rockies offers elegant guest rooms, world-class dining, an award-winning spa and an endless array of outdoor recreational activities.
Dine at Fairview
Savour the very best in contemporary Canadian cuisine at Fairview, where their talented culinary team’s deft touch allows the food to shine. Stylish décor, spectacular views, and attentive service create the perfect ambiance for a memorable dining experience at Fairview. Their master wine list has even been awarded with Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence.
Columbia Icefield Skywalk
Go beyond nature's edge and immerse yourself in an awe-inspiring interpretive experience in one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Explore the immense powers of glaciology from a fully accessible, cliff-edge walkway that leads to a glass-floored observation platform 280 m (918 ft) above the Sunwapta Valley.
Maligne Canyon
Turquoise, glacial waters, and startling canyon walls grow ever more impressive along this short trail. Multiple bridges span the narrow gorge, crossing several times for spine-tingling views of the river below. Watch for fuchsia fireweed and mountain bluebirds in a landscape shaped by fire, erosion, and mountain building.
Jasper SkyTram
The Jasper SkyTram whisks you up Whistlers Mountain to an elevation of 2,263-m (7,425-ft), providing stunning vistas of mountain ranges. On a clear day, you can even see the white pyramid of Mount Robson in nearby British Columbia. Interpretive panels explain the alpine environment, and a 1.4-km (0.9-mi) hiking trail leads you to the summit of the mountain.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Spread out over 700 acres, this year-round luxury mountain resort wraps around the shores of pristine Lac Beauvert and is Canada's #1 Golf Resort. Choose from private Signature Cabins (featuring your own kitchen, living space, patio and more) or one of their many quaint cabin-style rooms throughout the expansive property.
Jasper Planetarium
Enter the Jasper Planetarium's 40-seat domed planetarium theatre and tour the world's largest accessible dark sky preserve with a live guide during this interactive, world-exclusive, indoor Planetarium Experience. Or sign up for the full tour, which starts in the planetarium, then head outside for the chance to tour the largest telescope in the Rockies.