Itinerary

The Canadian Rockies are a stunning destination, perfect for a road trip with friends, especially if you all love hiking. Here’s an 8-day itinerary that balances adventure, breathtaking scenery, and some relaxation. Grab your hiking boots, pack your camera, and let’s hit the road!

## Day 1: Arrival in Calgary

Morning:

• Arrive in Calgary and pick up your rental car. Make sure to grab some snacks and supplies for the road trip!

Afternoon:

• Explore Calgary a bit. Check out the Calgary Tower for a panoramic view of the city and the Rockies in the distance.

Evening:

• Head to a local restaurant for dinner. Try some Alberta beef or poutine!
• Overnight in Calgary.

## Day 2: Calgary to Banff (1.5 hours drive)

Morning:

• Hit the road early and drive to Banff National Park. Stop at the scenic viewpoints along the way, like the Bow Valley Viewpoint.

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Banff and grab lunch at a local café.
• Spend the afternoon hiking the Tunnel Mountain Trail (2-3 hours round trip). It’s a moderate hike with fantastic views of Banff town and the surrounding mountains.

Evening:

• Stroll around Banff Avenue, check out the shops, and have dinner at a cozy restaurant.
• Overnight in Banff.

## Day 3: Banff National Park

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to Lake Louise (30 minutes from Banff).
• Hike the Lake Agnes Trail (3-4 hours round trip) to see the stunning Lake Agnes and the teahouse.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at the teahouse or pack a picnic.
• Afterward, hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers for more breathtaking views (another 2-3 hours).

Evening:

• Return to Banff for dinner. Consider trying the local craft beers!
• Overnight in Banff.

## Day 4: Icefields Parkway to Jasper (3.5 hours drive)

Morning:

• Depart Banff and drive along the Icefields Parkway. This is one of the most scenic drives in the world!
• Stop at Peyto Lake and Mistaya Canyon for short hikes and photo ops.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Columbia Icefield and take a tour on the Athabasca Glacier (book in advance).
• Continue your drive to Jasper, stopping at Athabasca Falls along the way.

Evening:

• Arrive in Jasper and settle into your accommodation.
• Enjoy dinner in Jasper and maybe check out the night sky if it’s clear—Jasper is a Dark Sky Preserve!
• Overnight in Jasper.

## Day 5: Jasper National Park

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to Maligne Lake. Take a boat tour to Spirit Island or hike the Maligne Canyon (2-3 hours).

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at the lake or pack a picnic.
• Spend the afternoon hiking the Valley of the Five Lakes (2-3 hours), a beautiful trail with stunning lake views.

Evening:

• Return to Jasper for dinner. Try some local game meat dishes!
• Overnight in Jasper.

## Day 6: Jasper to Yoho National Park (2 hours drive)

Morning:

• Depart Jasper and head towards Yoho National Park. Stop at Takkakaw Falls—one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada.

Afternoon:

• Hike the Emerald Lake Loop (1-2 hours) for stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• Have lunch at the Emerald Lake Lodge.

Evening:

• Explore the area a bit more, maybe take a short hike to Takakkaw Falls if you have time.
• Overnight in Field or nearby.

## Day 7: Yoho to Kootenay National Park (1 hour drive)

Morning:

• Drive to Kootenay National Park. Start with a hike on the Marble Canyon Trail (1-2 hours) to see the stunning canyon formations.

Afternoon:

• Head to Radium Hot Springs for a relaxing soak after your hikes.
• Enjoy lunch in Radium Hot Springs.

Evening:

• Explore the town a bit, then have dinner at a local restaurant.
• Overnight in Radium Hot Springs or nearby.

## Day 8: Return to Calgary (2.5 hours drive)

Morning:

• After breakfast, start your drive back to Calgary. If time allows, stop at Kananaskis Country for a final hike, like the Ptarmigan Cirque (2-3 hours).

Afternoon:

• Arrive in Calgary, return your rental car, and grab a bite to eat before your flight or onward journey.

Evening:

• If you have time, explore more of Calgary or head to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Always check trail conditions and weather forecasts before heading out.
• Make sure to have bear spray and know how to use it, as wildlife encounters can happen in the Rockies.
• Book accommodations in advance, especially in peak season (summer).

This itinerary is packed with adventure, stunning views, and plenty of hiking opportunities. Enjoy your trip with your friends, and make sure to take lots of photos! Safe travels! 🌲🏞️🚗