Start your adventure by exploring Banff National Park! Visit the iconic Banff Spring Hotel and take a quick hike to the Bow Falls then proceed to the stunning glacially-fed Lake Louise for some paddleboarding or kayaking against a picturesque backdrop of mountains and glacial lakes.
On your second day, check out Jasper National Park. Start with the beautiful Maligne Lake and hike the Bald Hills Trail for some breathtaking scenery. Then, unwind at the Miette Hot Springs while enjoying the views of the surrounding mountains before calling it a day.
On your way to Vancouver, take the scenic route through the Icefields Parkway where you will see the beautiful Columbia Icefield, the Athabasca Falls, and the stunning Peyto Lake. Make a stopover at Whistler, known for its popular ski resorts and hiking trails, and end the day in Vancouver.
Start your day by biking the scenic Stanley Park Seawall and hike the Prospect Point Trail. Check out the Vancouver Aquarium or stroll along the Granville Island Public Market to grab a bite of delicious food.
Explore the city on foot starting with Gastown, Vancouver's oldest neighborhoods. Walk to Chinatown to enjoy traditional Chinese cuisines and see the city’s famous Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden. End the day in Kitsilano Beach to enjoy the beautiful sunset and grab a snack from the local food trucks.
Take a hike to the Grouse Grind Trail and experience stunning views of the city. Experience Zip-lining and take a paragliding tour before unwinding in the beautiful Peak Chalet with some warm hot chocolate while experiencing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy your last day in Vancouver before heading to the airport or your next destination.
Consider renting a car for flexibility or using public transportation to save money. Estimated rental costs start at $50 per day, and estimated public transportation costs start at $3.05 per ride. Total estimated costs for transportation range from $50-250.
If you have more time, add a day trip to Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site or Whistler. If you have less time, consider skipping Grouse Mountain and spending more time exploring downtown Vancouver.
The primary airport serving Banff, Jasper and Vancouver is Vancouver International Airport (YVR), located approximately 7.5 miles (13 kilometers) from the city center of Vancouver.