Road Trip Itinerary: Vancouver to Kitimat via Okanagan and Jasper

Day 1: Vancouver to Okanagan Valley (Sept 9)

Morning: Depart from Vancouver, BC early in the morning and enjoy scenic views as you drive through the Fraser Valley. Stop for a coffee break in Chilliwack, known for its stunning mountain backdrop.

Afternoon: Continue your drive toward the Okanagan Valley. Upon arrival, explore the charming town of Penticton and enjoy a lakeside lunch at one of the local eateries by Okanagan Lake.

Evening: Settle into your accommodation in Penticton or nearby and take a sunset stroll along the Kettle Valley Rail Trail offering beautiful views of the valley and lake.

Day 2: Okanagan Exploration (Sept 10)

Morning: Visit the renowned Quails’ Gate Winery for a morning wine tasting session, accompanied by views of vineyards and mountains. Experience the serene ambiance of the Myra Canyon Park hiking trails.

Afternoon: Drive north to Kelowna and explore the bustling downtown area with its shops and waterfront promenade. Have lunch overlooking the marina and later visit Mission Hill Family Estate Winery.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a lakeside restaurant with local cuisine and relax with a gentle evening walk along Kelowna’s Waterfront Park.

Day 3: Okanagan to Jasper National Park (Sept 11)

Morning: Start early and begin the trek toward Jasper National Park. Consider a stop at Kamloops for refueling and a brief scenic walk in Riverside Park.

Afternoon: Arrive at Jasper and visit the Jasper SkyTram for panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies. Have lunch in Jasper townsite and prepare for outdoor activities.

Evening: Relax at your accommodation or soak in the calm atmosphere of Pyramid Lake with its peaceful waters and mountain reflections at sunset.

Day 4: Jasper National Park Exploration (Sept 12)

Morning: Explore the stunning Mallet Lake and hike the nearby trails taking in wildlife and alpine scenery. Visit the Jasper Visitor Centre for information and local insights.

Afternoon: Take a drive along the Athabasca Glacier route and consider a guided glacier walk or photo stop at Columbia Icefield. Enjoy a packed lunch in the scenic surroundings.

Evening: Return to Jasper town for a quaint dinner and wander the local shops for souvenirs and regional treats.

Day 5: Jasper to Prince George (Sept 13)

Morning: Depart Jasper early and drive toward Prince George. Stop by the scenic viewpoints along the way and enjoy the vast wilderness of northern BC.

Afternoon: Arrive in Prince George and have a local lunch. Visit the Exploration Place Museum to learn about the region’s history and culture.

Evening: Check into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxed dinner at one of Prince George’s restaurants specializing in Canadian comfort food.

Day 6: Prince George to Kitimat (Sept 14)

Morning: Set out early to continue your drive to Kitimat. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of northern highways and forests on the way.

Afternoon: Stop for lunch in a small town along the route, such as Smithers, and briefly explore local shops. Proceed onwards towards Kitimat.

Evening: Arrive in Kitimat by early evening and unwind at your accommodation. Take a walk along the Kitimat River Trail to stretch and enjoy the sunset.

Day 7: Explore Kitimat (Sept 15)

Morning: Visit the Kitimat Museum and Archives to discover the history and development of this coastal town. Explore local parks and waterfront areas.

Afternoon: Enjoy lunch in town followed by a visit to the Haisla Heritage Centre, immersing yourself in Indigenous culture and artistry.

Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a local seafood restaurant featuring fresh Pacific Northwest cuisine, reflecting on your memorable road trip adventure.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Quails’ Gate Winery – 2 hours – $25 per person (tasting fee)
• Mission Hill Family Estate Winery – 1.5 hours – $20 per person
• Jasper SkyTram – 2 hours – $40 per person
• Columbia Icefield Glacier Walk – 3 hours – $100 per person
• Exploration Place Museum – 1.5 hours – $10 per person
• Haisla Heritage Centre – 2 hours – $15 per person
• Meals and accommodation (average per day) – $150 per day
• Total estimated cost for activities and accommodations: Approximately $1,200 per person

Tips

To extend your trip, consider adding extra days in Jasper for additional hiking or to include a visit to nearby Maligne Lake and Spirit Island. Conversely, if pressed for time, you can reduce the itinerary by skipping the Prince George stop and driving directly from Jasper to Kitimat, which will shorten travel time but reduce cultural and historical stops along the way.