Calgary To Jasper

A trip from Calgary to Jasper is a fantastic way to experience the stunning beauty of the Canadian Rockies, and I’m excited to help you plan a family-friendly itinerary. Let’s dive right in!

Day 1: Arrival in Calgary

Morning:

• Arrive in Calgary and check into your hotel. If you’re staying downtown, you’ll be close to many attractions!
• Grab a hearty breakfast at a local favorite, like OEB Breakfast Co. for some delicious brunch options.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Calgary Zoo! It’s a great spot for families, with a variety of animals and interactive exhibits. The zoo is also home to a beautiful botanical garden.

Evening:

• Stroll through Prince’s Island Park. It’s a lovely place to relax, and the kids can run around while you enjoy the views of the Bow River.
• For dinner, try The Old Spaghetti Factory for a family-friendly atmosphere and tasty Italian dishes.

Day 2: Calgary to Banff

Morning:

• After breakfast, hit the road to Banff National Park (about 1.5 hours from Calgary). The drive is scenic, so keep your cameras ready!
• Stop at Lake Louise on your way. Take a short walk around the lake and snap some family photos.

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Banff and have lunch at The Maple Leaf for some Canadian cuisine.
• Spend the afternoon exploring Banff Avenue. Check out the shops, and don’t forget to visit the Banff Park Museum for a bit of history.

Evening:

• Take a ride on the Banff Gondola for breathtaking views of the Rockies. It’s a fantastic experience for the whole family!
• Dinner at Balkan Restaurant for some delicious Mediterranean food.

Day 3: Banff to Jasper

Morning:

• After breakfast, start your journey to Jasper via the Icefields Parkway. This drive is one of the most beautiful in the world, so plan for plenty of stops!
• Stop at Peyto Lake for a short hike to the viewpoint. The shape of the lake is just like a wolf’s head!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Columbia Icefield and take a tour on the Athabasca Glacier. The kids will love the adventure of walking on a glacier!
• Have lunch at the Glacier View Inn or pack a picnic to enjoy with a view.

Evening:

• Arrive in Jasper and check into your accommodation.
• For dinner, try The Raven Bistro for a cozy atmosphere and a menu that caters to all tastes.

Day 4: Exploring Jasper

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to Maligne Lake. You can take a boat tour to Spirit Island, which is a must-see!
• If your family enjoys hiking, consider a short trail around the lake.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at Maligne Lake Café.
• After lunch, visit Maligne Canyon. The kids will love exploring the trails and seeing the waterfalls.

Evening:

• Return to Jasper and enjoy a family dinner at Jasper Pizza Place. They have a great selection of pizzas and pasta!

Day 5: Jasper to Calgary

Morning:

• After breakfast, take a leisurely morning stroll around Jasper town. Visit the Jasper Yellowhead Museum if time allows.
• Start your drive back to Calgary, but make a stop at Athabasca Falls on the way. The power of the falls is awe-inspiring!

Afternoon:

• Have lunch in Canmore at The Grizzly Paw Brewing Company. The kids will love the root beer!
• Continue your drive back to Calgary.

Evening:

• Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for a final dinner in Calgary. Consider Charcut Roast House for a delicious farewell meal.
• Head to the airport for your departure or settle in for one last night in Calgary.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the weather and pack accordingly, as it can change quickly in the mountains.
• Always have snacks and water on hand for the kids during drives and hikes.
• Consider booking accommodations and any tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories with your family! Enjoy your adventure in the beautiful Canadian Rockies! 🌲🏔️