17 day itinerary for Rocheuses Canadiennes

Itinerary

A 17-day adventure in the Canadian Rockies sounds like a dream come true, especially for a family! The Rockies are filled with stunning landscapes, wildlife, and plenty of activities that everyone can enjoy. Here’s a fun and family-friendly itinerary to make the most of your time in this breathtaking region.

## Day 1: Arrival in Calgary

• Morning: Arrive in Calgary. Pick up your rental car (a must for exploring the Rockies!).
• Afternoon: Visit the Calgary Zoo or the TELUS Spark Science Centre for some family fun.
• Evening: Enjoy a family dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Alberta beef!

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

• Morning: Drive to Banff. Stop at the scenic Bow Valley viewpoint along the way.
• Afternoon: Explore Banff town. Visit the Banff Park Museum and take a stroll along Banff Avenue.
• Evening: Have dinner at a family-friendly restaurant like The Old Spaghetti Factory.

## Day 3: Banff National Park

• Morning: Take the Banff Gondola for stunning views of the Rockies.
• Afternoon: Hike the easy Sulphur Mountain Boardwalk or visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
• Evening: Enjoy a picnic dinner at Central Park.

## Day 4: Lake Louise

• Morning: Drive to Lake Louise (30 minutes). Rent a canoe or hike around the lake.
• Afternoon: Visit the Lake Louise Gondola for more breathtaking views and maybe spot some wildlife!
• Evening: Dinner at the Lake Louise area. Try the Lakeview Lounge for a family-friendly atmosphere.

## Day 5: Moraine Lake

• Morning: Head to Moraine Lake (check for shuttle availability). Hike the Rockpile Trail for iconic views.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a packed lunch by the lake and explore the area.
• Evening: Return to Banff for dinner and a family game night at your accommodation.

## Day 6: Yoho National Park

• Morning: Drive to Yoho National Park (about 1 hour). Visit Emerald Lake and take a family-friendly hike around it.
• Afternoon: Check out Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada’s tallest waterfalls.
• Evening: Return to Banff for dinner and relax.

## Day 7: Icefields Parkway to Jasper

• Morning: Start your drive along the Icefields Parkway. Stop at Peyto Lake and Mistaya Canyon.
• Afternoon: Visit the Columbia Icefield and take the Ice Explorer tour onto Athabasca Glacier.
• Evening: Arrive in Jasper and settle into your accommodation. Dinner in Jasper.

## Day 8: Jasper National Park

• Morning: Visit Maligne Lake and take a boat tour to Spirit Island.
• Afternoon: Hike the easy Maligne Canyon trail.
• Evening: Stargazing in Jasper, one of the world’s largest dark sky preserves!

## Day 9: Jasper to Hinton

• Morning: Explore Jasper town, visit the Jasper SkyTram for stunning views.
• Afternoon: Drive to Hinton (about 1 hour). Visit the Beaver Boardwalk for a family-friendly nature walk.
• Evening: Dinner in Hinton and relax.

## Day 10: Hinton to Canmore

• Morning: Drive back towards Canmore (about 2 hours). Stop at the scenic viewpoints along the way.
• Afternoon: Explore Canmore’s charming downtown and visit the Canmore Nordic Centre.
• Evening: Dinner at a local eatery, perhaps try The Grizzly Paw Brewing Company.

## Day 11: Kananaskis Country

• Morning: Head to Kananaskis Country for a day of outdoor fun. Try the easy hikes like Troll Falls.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch and maybe some biking or horseback riding.
• Evening: Return to Canmore for dinner and a family movie night.

## Day 12: Banff National Park (again!)

• Morning: Return to Banff for more exploration. Visit the Cave and Basin National Historic Site.
• Afternoon: Take a family-friendly hike on the Tunnel Mountain Trail.
• Evening: Dinner in Banff and enjoy some ice cream at a local shop.

## Day 13: Glacier National Park (British Columbia)

• Morning: Drive to Glacier National Park (about 2 hours). Explore the visitor center.
• Afternoon: Hike the easy trails like the Hemlock Grove Boardwalk.
• Evening: Return to Revelstoke for dinner and rest.

## Day 14: Revelstoke

• Morning: Visit Mount Revelstoke National Park. Take the Meadows in the Sky Parkway.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a family hike and have a picnic lunch.
• Evening: Dinner in Revelstoke and explore the local shops.

## Day 15: Return to Banff

• Morning: Drive back to Banff (about 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Relax and enjoy some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant in Banff.

## Day 16: Banff to Calgary

• Morning: Drive back to Calgary (1.5 hours). Visit the Calgary Tower for panoramic views.
• Afternoon: Explore the Glenbow Museum or the Heritage Park Historical Village.
• Evening: Enjoy a final family dinner in Calgary.

## Day 17: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Calgary.
• Afternoon: Return your rental car and head to the airport for departure.

Tips:

• Always check for park regulations and trail conditions.
• Make reservations for accommodations and popular attractions in advance.
• Pack snacks and water for hikes and day trips.
• Don’t forget your camera for all the stunning views!

This itinerary balances adventure, relaxation, and family-friendly activities, ensuring everyone has a fantastic time in the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy your trip! 🌲🏔️