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7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Alberta

Friday, September 15: Calgary

Start your trip in the vibrant city of Calgary. In the morning, explore the historic Calgary Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Glenbow Museum to delve into the local culture and art. As the evening sets in, wander through the lively Stephen Avenue Walk and grab a meal at one of the budget-friendly pubs or food trucks.

  • Calgary Tower: $$, 2 hours
  • Glenbow Museum: $$, 2-3 hours
  • Stephen Avenue Walk: Free, 1-2 hours
Saturday, September 16: Banff National Park

Take a day trip to the spectacular Banff National Park. In the morning, hike to Johnston Canyon and marvel at the stunning waterfalls along the way. In the afternoon, explore the charming town of Banff and take a dip in the soothing Banff Upper Hot Springs. As the evening approaches, capture the sunset at Vermilion Lakes for a breathtaking view of the Rockies.

  • Johnston Canyon: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Banff Upper Hot Springs: $$, 1-2 hours
  • Vermilion Lakes: Free, 1 hour
Sunday, September 17: Jasper National Park

Embark on a scenic drive to Jasper National Park. In the morning, hike the stunning Maligne Canyon and witness the power of nature. In the afternoon, take a boat tour on Maligne Lake and admire the crystal-clear waters. As the evening sets in, visit the Athabasca Falls for a mesmerizing display of cascading water.

  • Maligne Canyon: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Maligne Lake Boat Tour: $$, 2-3 hours
  • Athabasca Falls: Free, 1 hour
Monday, September 18: Edmonton

Head to the capital city of Alberta, Edmonton. In the morning, explore the captivating Royal Alberta Museum and learn about the province's rich history. In the afternoon, visit the West Edmonton Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world, and enjoy the various entertainment options. As the evening approaches, take a stroll through the picturesque Edmonton River Valley.

  • Royal Alberta Museum: $$, 2-3 hours
  • West Edmonton Mall: Free (attractions have individual costs), 3-4 hours
  • Edmonton River Valley: Free, 1-2 hours
Tuesday, September 19: Dinosaur Provincial Park

Discover the prehistoric wonders of Dinosaur Provincial Park. In the morning, join a guided tour to explore the fossil-rich badlands and learn about the ancient creatures that once roamed here. In the afternoon, hike the Badlands Trail for breathtaking views. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst the unique landscapes.

  • Dinosaur Provincial Park Tour: $$, 3-4 hours
  • Badlands Trail: Free, 1-2 hours
Wednesday, September 20: Drumheller

Visit the fascinating town of Drumheller, known as the "Dinosaur Capital of the World." In the morning, explore the Royal Tyrrell Museum and marvel at its extensive collection of dinosaur fossils. In the afternoon, hike through the unique landscapes of the Hoodoos Trail. As the evening approaches, capture the stunning views from the World's Largest Dinosaur.

  • Royal Tyrrell Museum: $$, 2-3 hours
  • Hoodoos Trail: Free, 1-2 hours
  • World's Largest Dinosaur: Free, 1 hour
Thursday, September 21: Waterton Lakes National Park

End your trip with a visit to the scenic Waterton Lakes National Park. In the morning, hike the iconic Bear's Hump trail for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lakes. In the afternoon, take a boat tour to explore Waterton Lake and its stunning surroundings. As the evening sets in, relax by the peaceful Cameron Falls.

  • Bear's Hump: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Waterton Lake Boat Tour: $$, 2-3 hours
  • Cameron Falls: Free, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Lesser Slave Lake in Lesser Slave River. This hidden gem offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Locals also love exploring the Icefields Parkway, a stunning scenic drive connecting Banff and Jasper National Parks, with numerous viewpoints and hiking trails along the way. Both these attractions can be enjoyed on a shoestring budget.

For hotel and flight prices, check here.

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