Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip
The Perfect 7-Day RV Route for Adventure Seekers
This Calgary to Vancouver road trip is your ticket to mountain highs, alpine towns, and coastal charm—all in just seven days. Wind through the Canadian Rockies from Calgary’s buzzing city streets to the glacier-fed lakes of Golden and the forested trails of Revelstoke. Along the way, you’ll find local eats, scenic stops, and can’t-miss moments—ending at the edge of the Pacific with views that make every mile worth it.
Route: Calgary ➤ Canmore ➤ Golden ➤ Revelstoke ➤ Okanagan Valley ➤ Harrison Mills ➤ Vancouver
Distance: 746 miles
Duration: 7 Days
Landmarks & Scenic Spots: Grassi Lakes Trail, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Pipe Mountain Coaster, Scenic Sip Wine Trail, Harrison Hot Springs Mineral Pools, Stanley Park Seawall.
Best Travel Time: June – September
Tolls & Fees: The Trans-Canada Highway is toll-free; however, some BC provincial parks, like those in the Okanagan Valley, may charge small day-use fees ($5–$10 CAD). Entry to Mount Revelstoke National Park requires a daily fee, starting at $11 per adult or $22 per family/group.
Stop 1 – Calgary
Our recommendation: 1 day
Kick off your Canada Rockies road trip in Calgary, a vibrant city with the Rocky Mountains as its dramatic backdrop. It’s more than just a starting point—there’s a rich mix of culture, nature, and history that makes Calgary a destination in its own right.
Things to Do
- Heritage Park Historical Village: A nostalgic journey through Western Canada’s past, where steam trains and vintage cars bring history to life.
- Prince’s Island Park & Peace Bridge: Nature and architecture meet in this riverside retreat framed by skyline views and the striking red arc of the Peace Bridge.
- Calgary Tower: A glass-floor lookout where city lights stretch beneath you and the Rocky Mountains rise beyond the horizon.
- WinSport (Canada Olympic Park): A legacy of the Winter Games, now alive with ziplining, mountain biking, and a bold spirit of adventure.
- Inglewood Bird Sanctuary & Historic District: Where quiet trails wind through wetlands and Calgary’s oldest neighborhood tells stories of the past.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Tacos Mexico Memorial Location: Traditional Mexican street food (vegan & vegetarian options)
- Pizza Culture Napoletana: Authentic Neapolitan pizza (ask for dietary accommodations)
- Hearts Choices Café Market: Thai-inspired vegan comfort food (100% vegan, gluten-free options)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Carino “Japanese Italian Kitchen”: Cozy fusion dining (vegetarian options, gluten-free available)
- Tamarind Vietnamese Grill: Fresh Vietnamese cuisine (vegetarian & vegan-friendly)
- Heaven Restaurant Market: Venezuelan dishes in a relaxed setting (100% gluten-free, vegan & vegetarian options)
Stop 2 – Canmore
Our recommendation: 1 day
Just outside Banff, Canmore offers a quieter, less commercial alternative that still delivers big on alpine charm. Ideal for RV travelers and nature lovers, it’s a natural highlight on any Calgary to Vancouver road trip.
Things to Do
- Grassi Lakes Trail: Among the most iconic things to do in Canmore, this short trail leads to vivid turquoise lakes and sweeping views that feel far bigger than the effort it takes to reach them.
- Canmore Cave Tours: Beneath the surface of the Rockies, narrow passages and echoing chambers invite a deeper kind of adventure—raw, immersive, and unlike anything above ground.
- Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk: A winding wooden path through quiet wetlands, where reflections of mountain peaks ripple gently beside you and everything slows down.
- Quarry Lake: Set against dramatic peaks, this calm alpine lake is a local go-to for sun-soaked afternoons, paddleboarding, and impromptu picnics on the grass.
- Downtown Canmore & Art Walk: A blend of mountain-town charm and creative spirit, where galleries, artisan shops, and cozy cafés feel like part of the landscape.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Communitea Cafe: Healthy bowls, wraps & teas (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Harvest Café: Cozy café for breakfast & lunch (vegetarian & gluten-free options; some vegan)
- The Summit Café: Mountain café with hearty breakfasts (vegetarian options; limited vegan & gluten-free)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Bridgette Bar: Craft cocktails & bar bites (vegetarian options; ask for vegan & gluten-free)
- KAIN TAYO: Global fusion cuisine (vegan, vegetarian & gluten-free options)
- Nourish Bistro: Inventive vegetarian cuisine (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
Stop 3 – Golden
Our recommendation: 1 day
Golden is where outdoor adrenaline and jaw-dropping nature collide. Between river rafting and suspension bridges, there are more than enough reasons to stop here on a road trip through the west of Canada.
Things to Do
- Mount 7 Recreation Site: A ridge that feels worlds away, where valley views stretch for miles and hang gliders drift silently overhead.
- Golden Skybridge: Canada’s highest suspension bridges span a forested canyon, offering a dramatic new perspective on the wild beauty below.
- Kicking Horse River: A restless force carving through the landscape, where rafts rush past canyon walls and the sound of churning water echoes through the valley.
- Whitetooth Brewing Company: Tucked into the heart of town, this craft brewery channels Golden’s easy pace—best enjoyed with a pint and a view of the peaks that shape every brew.
- Kicking Horse Mountain Adventure: Gondolas lift you into alpine heights, offering jaw-dropping views, while Boo the grizzly bear reminds you who truly rules the peaks.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Ethos Café: Modern breakfast & lunch café (vegetarian options; ask for vegan & gluten-free)
- Bluebird Café: Grab-and-go breakfast & lunch (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Papa Bear’s Kitchen: Homemade soups, salads & breakfast sandwiches (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- The Wolf’s Den: Cozy log cabin spot for burgers & steaks (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Whitetooth Bistro: Seasonal menu with local ingredients (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Reposados Tacos y Tequila: Fresh Mexican eats with a twist (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
Stop 4 – Revelstoke
Our recommendation: 1 day
This small mountain town blends action with alpine serenity, from forest boardwalks to thrilling coasters. With easy access to Mount Revelstoke National Park and a relaxed vibe, it’s a favorite for RV travelers and camper van road trippers exploring the Canadian Rockies.
Things to Do
- Big Eddy Bluffs: A place where panoramic views stretch across the Columbia River and surrounding peaks, offering a chance to lose yourself in the stillness of nature.
- Mount Revelstoke National Park: Wander through alpine meadows, where wildflowers bloom and mountain vistas unfold. If time permits, the hike to Eva Lake reveals some of the park’s most breathtaking views.
- Giant Cedars Boardwalk Trail: A path through towering ancient trees, where the air is cool and the earth is soft beneath your feet. A quiet retreat into one of the oldest living landscapes.
- The Pipe Mountain Coaster: For those seeking an unforgettable rush, this summer coaster ride offers sudden drops and exhilarating turns through the alpine forest, all set against stunning mountain backdrops.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- La Baguette: Café with pastries, sandwiches & coffee (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Revelstoke Café: Plant-based menu with local ingredients (100% vegan, gluten-free options)
- Main Street Café: All-day breakfast & lunch café (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Quartermaster Eatery: Seasonal fine dining (vegetarian options; ask for vegan & gluten-free)
- Mt. Begbie Brewing Co.: Tasting room with food & views (vegan options available)
- The Village Idiot Bar and Grill: Laid-back spot for pizzas & burgers (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
Stop 5 – Okanagan Valley
Our recommendation: 1 day
Halfway through your road trip across Canada, the Okanagan is wine-country bliss. Lakes, orchards, and golden light—this is a detour worth savoring. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a glass of local wine or take in panoramic lake views, this region offers a perfect blend of relaxation and scenery.
Things to Do
- Kalamalka Lake Park: The vibrant turquoise waters beckon, offering a quiet space to pause and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the lake.
- Cedar Creek Winery: Sip on local varietals as the valley’s natural beauty unfolds before you, with panoramic views of vineyards that stretch across the horizon.
- Grey Canal Trail: Winding through sun-dappled farmland, this scenic trail offers expansive views that invite you to slow down and breathe in the quiet landscape.
- Kal Beach: Soft sandy shores and calm waters create the perfect spot for a leisurely day of sun, swimming, or simply soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Eatology: Lively breakfast & lunch diner (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Naked Café: 100% plant-based café with comfort food classics (vegan & gluten-free options)
- The Salty Caramel Kitchen: Cozy vegan café with sweet & savory options (100% vegan, gluten-free options)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Buffalo Rouge Brewing: Craft brewery with vegan comfort food & brews (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Cactus Club Cafe Vernon: Polished setting with modern Canadian cuisine (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Intermezzo Restaurant and Wine Cellar: Upscale Mediterranean-style dining (vegetarian options; ask for vegan & gluten-free)
Stop 6 – Harrison Mills
Our recommendation: 1 day
Need a breather before Vancouver? Harrison Mills is it. Surrounded by forests and rivers, it’s peaceful, charming, and everything a weary traveler could want. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, take a deep breath, and enjoy nature without the crowds.
Things to Do
- Harrison Hot Springs: A place where the soothing warmth of mineral pools meets the quiet charm of a lakeside town—perfect for slowing down and taking it all in.
- Stave Falls Powerhouse: A unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage, where waterfalls and historic turbines offer a glimpse into British Columbia’s past.
- Farm House Natural Cheeses: Nestled in the rolling countryside, this local creamery is a celebration of slow living—where each bite connects you to the land and its traditions.
- Sandpiper Resort: Tucked between forested peaks and the winding Harrison River, this peaceful escape invites you to linger a little longer, whether on the green or in quiet reflection.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Muddy Waters Café: Farm-to-table café with home-baked goods (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Kilby Café: Heritage-site café with homemade pies & soups (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Farmhouse Brewing Co.: Craft brewery with wood-fired dishes (vegetarian options; gluten-free dough & vegan cheese available)
- Morgan’s Bistro: Lakeside bistro with regional specialties (vegetarian options; ask for vegan & gluten-free)
- Sasquatch Inn Restaurant: Rustic pub fare in a cozy setting (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
Stop 7 – Vancouver
Our recommendation: 1 day
End your journey on a high note. Vancouver combines oceanfront paths, coastal mountains, and buzzing neighborhoods into one unforgettable city. Whether you’re catching your breath after a long stretch of mountain roads or diving into city life one last time, this is the perfect grand finale.
Things to Do
- Stanley Park: A walk along the iconic seawall reveals lush gardens and sweeping views of the North Shore mountains, where nature’s beauty invites reflection and tranquility.
- Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge: The swaying bridge spans a deep canyon, while surrounding trails lead you through Vancouver’s lush coastal rainforest, offering moments of calm amid the rustling leaves.
- North Shore Mountains: The trails of the North Shore Mountains open to breathtaking vistas, where the stillness of the wilderness invites quiet contemplation and awe.
- Robson Park & Brassneck Brewery: In the heart of the city, Robson Park offers a peaceful escape, and Brassneck Brewery’s welcoming atmosphere invites you to savor a locally brewed beer surrounded by the warmth of Vancouver’s community.
- False Creek Seawall: As you stroll along the scenic seawall from Science World to Granville Island, the waterfront views, public art, and vibrant local culture unfold before you, blending nature with creativity.
Where to Eat
Quick Bites / Takeaway
- Chambar: Belgian-inspired brunch & breakfast (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Twisted Fork: Cozy brunch spot with creative classics (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Northern Café and Grill: Old-school diner with hearty fusion breakfasts (vegetarian & vegan options)
Sit-Down Restaurants
- Los Cuervos: Tacos & Mexican fare in a laid-back setting (vegetarian options; ask for vegan & gluten-free)
- Ask For Luigi: Handmade Italian pasta in a warm, intimate space (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Nightingale: Modern Canadian share plates with seasonal flavors (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
- Kingyo: Japanese small plates with bold flavors (vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free options)
Calgary to Vancouver Road Trip: Travel Essentials & Insider Tips
Crossing the border from the U.S. into Canada is straightforward, but it’s still important to come prepared. Here’s what to have in order before you hit the road:
- Valid Passport: U.S. citizens must present a valid passport to enter Canada.
- No Visa Required: For stays under six months, no visa is needed.
- Currency Tips: Most places accept credit cards (Visa & Mastercard), but it’s smart to carry some Canadian dollars (CAD) for small towns or remote stops.
- Phone Plans: Avoid roaming charges by activating an international plan or picking up a Canadian SIM card (look for Rogers, Telus, or Bell).
- Offline Maps: Cell service is limited in national parks. Download offline maps from Google Maps before entering remote areas.
Canadian road rules and conditions are generally similar to the U.S., but there are a few key differences to be aware of—especially in the Rockies:
- Speed Limits: Posted in kilometers per hour (km/h), not miles.
- Fuel Up Early: Gas is priced per liter and often more expensive than in the U.S. Fill up before entering remote areas like Revelstoke or Golden.
- Wildlife Caution: Watch for elk, deer, and bears—especially at dawn and dusk in mountainous areas.
- Winter Tires: Between October and April, some regions require winter tires. Check your vehicle beforehand if traveling in colder months.
Planning ahead for where you’ll sleep and eat can make all the difference on a road trip. Here’s how to stay fueled, safe, and well-rested:
- Book Camping Spots Early: Campgrounds in Canmore, Revelstoke, and Harrison Hot Springs fill up fast. Reserve early to avoid hassle.
- Stock Up on Groceries: Visit Safeway, Save-On-Foods, or Real Canadian Superstore before heading into national parks.
- Alcohol Laws: Legal drinking age is 18 in Alberta and 19 in British Columbia. Alcohol is sold only in liquor stores.
- Bear Safety: Use bear-proof containers and keep food and trash stored securely at your camping spot.
From travel insurance to altitude awareness, a little preparation goes a long way in staying safe and comfortable on the road:
- Travel Insurance: U.S. health insurance doesn’t apply in Canada. Make sure to buy travel insurance before your trip.
- Prescriptions: Bring essential medications in original packaging. Pharmacies like Shoppers Drug Mart and London Drugs are widely available.
- Altitude Awareness: Stay hydrated and prepare for fast-changing weather when hiking high-elevation trails.
Before you hit the highway, check off these last-minute tips to avoid surprises and stay flexible as you explore:
- Top Off Your Tank: Especially before long stretches or remote routes.
- Check Campground Rules: Some sites may have seasonal closures or fire bans—verify before you arrive.
- Pack Layers: Weather in the Rockies is unpredictable. Dress in layers to stay comfortable.
- Use GPS or Offline Maps: Don’t rely on cell service—download maps in advance or bring a GPS device.
Your Ultimate Road Trip Awaits!
Experience the breathtaking drive from Calgary to Vancouver. Rent the perfect camper and hit the road with ease!