Last updated on April 13th, 2024 at 10:25 pm
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This blog post contains a list of what I think are the best stops on a Vancouver to Calgary road trip.
A road trip is one of the best ways to see Western Canada. From the luscious forests, beautiful lakes, and stunning mountains, driving across BC and Alberta will always make for a memorable trip. The drive takes about 11 hours in total. Although it could be done in one day, I highly recommend making some stops!
This post assumes you will be taking the fastest route- highway 1 from Vancouver to Hope, highway 5 from Hope to Kamloops, and then highway 1 again from Kamloops to Calgary. So read on to see my list of all the best stops on a Vancouver to Calgary road trip along this route.
The Best Stops on a Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip:
Stop 1: Bridal Veil Falls, Chilliwack BC
The first stop on a Vancouver to Calgary road trip is Bridal Veil Falls. Located just outside of Chilliwack, it takes about an hour and a half to drive there from Vancouver. It is just off the highway, and only requires an easy 15 minute hike to reach.
Stop 2: Hope BC
Hope is a cute little town about 20 minutes from Bridal Veil Falls. It is known for chainsaw wood carvings and stunning scenery. You will want to spend about an hour here, wandering around and taking it all in. It is also a good idea to fill up on gas here if you don’t have a full tank- the next gas station in in Merritt, about an hour and a half away.
Stop 3: Othello Tunnels
Just past Hope is Othello Tunnels, in Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park. These old railways tunnels make for a stunning walking path today. Make sure you check the BC Parks website before you go!, The tunnels have been closed for a few months in 2023. Unfortunately the park was closed during my last trip in August 2023.
Stop 4: Kekuli Cafe, Merritt BC
Kekuli Cafe is in Merritt, about an hour and a half from the Othello Tunnels. It serves delicious bannock, among other other tasty options, and is indigenous owned. This is a great place to stop for lunch!
Stop 5: Salmon Arm Wharf
Salmon Arm is a cute little town about two hours from Merritt. My favourite thing to see there is the wharf- the longest wooden wharf in North America! I love walking out to the end of the wharf and taking in the scenery. There is also a small food stand at the end, which is a great place to get a snacks.
Stop 6: The Last Spike
The Last Spike another great stop to make. It is the location of where the last spike of the Canadian Pacific Railway was put in to place. It is located just off the highway, in a rest stop between Salmon Arm and Revelstoke.
Stop 7: The Enchanted Forest
The Enchanted Forest is a great place to stop, especially if you are travelling with kids. This attraction has fairy tale statues arranged in magical displays along a forest path. It is fun for adults too!
Stop 8: Three Valley Gap
Three Valley Gap is a small community near Revelstoke. Aside from the iconic red hotel, the main highlights are the beautiful lakefront and the historic ghost town.
Stop 9: Revelstoke
Revelstoke is a cute mountain town with lots to do and see. There are lots of hikes and hot springs in the area for outdoor lovers!
Stop 10: Meadow in the Sky Parkway
Just a short time from the Revelstoke city center is Mount Revelstoke National Park. Within the park is Meadow in the Sky Parkway, a beautiful scenic drive up to the summit of the mountain. There are many lookout points where you can pull over and take in stunning views of Revelstoke. The drive takes about 90 minutes in total.
Stop 11: Golden
Golden is another cute mountain town, about a 2 hour drive from Revelstoke. In addition to being a great place to fill up on gas, there are lots of outdoor activities to do in Golden. One of the most popular attractions is the Golden Skybridge, Canada’s highest suspension bridge.
Stop 12: Emerald Lake
About 45 minutes from Golden is Emerald Lake. Located within Yoho National Park, this beautiful glacial lake has bright blue water, and it a must see on any Western Canada road trip!
Stop 13: Lake Louise
Lake Louise is another must-see glacial lake, located within Banff National Park. Make sure you plan ahead if you want to visit- you need to pre-book a shuttle to get there, and it fills up!
Stop 14: Banff
Banff is a cute town surrounded by stunning mountains. You will definitely want to stop here and explore the shops, as well as take in the scenery.
So there it is- my list of the best stops on a Vancouver to Calgary road trip! I would highly recommend doing this drive over a few days so you have time to take it all in.
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