7 Day Road Trip Calgary to Vancouver

A 7-day Calgary to Vancouver road trip demands one thing – you be ready for a jam-packed journey full of incredible sights, fun-filled adventures and unforgettable memories. This is the quintessential road trip for visitors to Canada. Are you ready for the RV adventure of a lifetime?

Itinerary
Activities
Packing Guide
Driving & Camping Information

One-Way Road Trip From Calgary to Vancouver

From Western Canada’s wind-swept prairies to the rugged Rockies and myriad National Parks, the Calgary to Vancouver route is a must for RV travelers. A one-way trip also means that you can spend more time exploring the hidden gems and natural wonders along the way without having to rush back.

About the Drive From Calgary to Vancouver

Besides being insanely beautiful, the Calgary to Vancouver road trip takes you across two different provinces (Alberta and British Columbia) for a total distance of 650 miles. You’ll be driving the Trans-Canada Highway, also known as Highway 1, with a few quick detours to explore scenic routes… and see a famous bear.

Day 1: Start your journey in Calgary

Calgary is the largest city in Alberta and the perfect starting point for your road trip… especially if the Stampede is in town. Known as the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth, it’s worth combining this event with visits to the city’s many heritage museums, leafy parks and Calgary Tower.

Campsite recommendation: Onespot Crossing Campgrounds

Day 2: Check out Banff's quainter (and more affordable) sister

Canmore is a former mining town located just outside Banff National Park, and while not as popular as Banff, it’s just as charming and picturesque. Spend the day exploring Canmore’s quaint downtown and surrounding mountain bike/hiking trails for a more laid-back mountain experience.

Campsite recommendation: Bow River Campground

Day 3: Be charmed by Golden (and meet Boo the grizzly)

Golden is an outdoor lover’s dream with mountain activities galore, but it’s also home to the largest grizzly bear refuge in the world. Boo is the resident grizzly and he’s been there since he was a cub. In addition to Boo, Golden has plenty of other adventures like whitewater rafting and paragliding

Campsite recommendation: Golden Municipal Campground & RV Park

Day 4: Visit the mountain playground that is Revelstoke

If you like mountains then Revelstoke can’t be missed. This old Canadian Pacific Railway town is situated in the heart of the Monashee and Columbia Mountains. It’s also surrounded by five National Parks. The Pipe Mountain Coaster is a must-do in the summer… so long as you can handle sudden drops and heart-pumping turns.

Campsite recommendation: Revelstoke RV & Cabin Resort

Day 5: Discover the Okanagan Valley's wine trail

The Okanagan region is celebrated for its wine, and there’s no better way to experience it than by taking a leisurely drive through the valley. The Scenic Sip Wine Trail is particularly cool, with packages that include winery tours, multiple tastings and even lunch. Just be sure to have a designated driver if you plan on channeling your inner sommelier.

Campsite recommendation: Cedar Falls Campground (Vernon)

Day 6: Relax in soothing mineral pools at Harrison Hot Springs

After all those adventures and with Vancouver on the horizon, take a day to relax at Harrison Hot Springs. Nestled in the Coast Mountains, this tranquil spot has multiple natural hot springs that soothe sore muscles and clear the mind – perfect for winding down your trip.

Campsite recommendation: Springs RV resort (5 minutes from Harrison Hot Springs)

Day 7: Returning to Vancouver

Vancouver, known for its vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods and stunning natural surroundings, is the final destination of this epic road trip. Spend your final leg exploring the city’s many attractions like Stanley Park, Granville Island or Gastown before returning your campervan to our conveniently located Vancouver station.

Activities on road trip from Calgary to Vancouver

From hiking to wildlife spotting, wine tasting to hot springs, the 7-day road trip from Calgary to Vancouver is packed with endless activities for everyone. Here are a few key experiences we recommend:

Day hikes in one of the many National Parks
Wildlife viewing along the Bow Valley Parkway
Rock climbing in Canmore
Whitewater rafting
Mountain biking
Larch walks (only in autumn)
Wine touring and tastings in Okanagan Valley
Relaxing at natural hot springs

Packing tips for a road trip from Calgary to Vancouver

Packing for a holiday can be challenging, but you needn’t worry about bringing your entire life with you.

The best time to visit Western Canada is during the summer months, when the temperature is mild and pleasant. Bring comfortable and sturdy shoes for all the outdoor activities, as well as layers to accommodate changing temperatures.

Make sure you have your camera or phone ready to capture all of the stunning landscapes that will be passing by. And remember that you’ll still need a valid passport to enter Canada from the US, so make sure it’s packed and up to date.

Local tips for RVs driving from Calgary to Vancouver

Want to road trip from Calgary to Vancouver like a local? Here are a few tips to help make the most of your journey:

Consider buying a Discovery Parks Pass before starting your journey if you plan on visiting more than 5-6 National Parks in the week
Download an offline map app for added peace of mind
Note that Canada uses the metric system for distances and speed limits. This means that kilometers (kph or km/h) are used instead of miles (mph)
Be aware of wildlife on the roads (especially at dawn and dusk)
Book campsites in advance during peak late spring/summer/early autumn months
Save money on gas by downloading GasBuddy
Stop at local markets and roadside stands for fresh produce and homemade goodies
Don’t be afraid to ask locals for recommendations on hidden gems and must-see spots along the way. They’re happy to share great insider tips!

Now, go ahead and turn your dream trip into a reality! Book a campervan with roadsurfer and literally put the wheels in motion for an unforgettable Calgary to Vancouver road trip today.

More Tips for Your Road Trip

Camping Tips