Epic 4-Day Road Trip from Vancouver to Banff & Jasper National Parks

Day Day 1: Journey to Golden

Vancouver, Canada on April 5, 2025

2:00PM

Departure from Vancouver

Start your road trip to Banff and Jasper National Parks, heading east on Highway 1 through the picturesque landscapes of British Columbia.
CURRENCY0, 15 mins

2:15PM

Travel to Golden

Enjoy the scenic drive with possible stops at viewpoints along the way. You’ll pass through spectacular mountain ranges and winding rivers.
CURRENCY0, 3 hrs 45 mins

6:00PM

Check-in at hotel in Golden

Settle into your hotel and freshen up before dinner. Golden has several cozy lodging options to choose from.
CURRENCY120, 1 hr

7:00PM

Dinner at The Island Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious meal featuring local ingredients and a stunning view of the river at The Island Restaurant, which stays open until 9 PM.
CURRENCY80, 1.5 hrs

8:30PM

Evening Stroll

Take a leisurely stroll in Golden's downtown area, where you can see the Columbia Valley and grab a dessert or coffee at a local café.
CURRENCY20, 1 hr
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Day Day 2: Exploration in Banff

Banff, Canada on April 6, 2025

6:00AM

Breakfast at Golden Bakery

Start your day with fresh pastries and hearty breakfast options at Golden Bakery, open from 6 AM.
CURRENCY30, 1 hr

7:00AM

Travel to Banff

Drive from Golden to Banff, soaking in the stunning mountain scenery on the way.
CURRENCY0, 2 hrs

9:00AM

Moraine Lake Sunrise

Experience the remarkable sunrise at Moraine Lake. Be sure to take the Moraine Lake Bus as parking is limited, and enjoy the picturesque views.
CURRENCY20, 2 hrs

11:00AM

Visit Peyto Lake

Stop at the stunning Peyto Lake viewpoint. The wolf-head shape of the lake ensures breathtaking photos.
CURRENCY0, 30 mins

12:00PM

Lunch at Bear Street Tavern

Refuel with a tasty lunch at Bear Street Tavern, known for its gourmet pizzas and local craft beers; open until 3 PM.
CURRENCY50, 1.5 hrs

1:30PM

Explore Lake Louise

Visit the iconic Lake Louise and walk along the shore or rent a canoe during warmer months. Take in the breathtaking views.
CURRENCY0, 2 hrs

3:30PM

Columbia Icefield Explorer Tour

Embark on the famous Columbia Icefield Explorer tour for spectacular glacier views and an unforgettable experience. Tours usually run until 5 PM.
CURRENCY100, 2 hrs

5:30PM

Athabasca Falls

Visit the stunning Athabasca Falls; take short walks to viewpoints where you can see the roaring waters up close.
CURRENCY0, 1 hr

6:30PM

Check-in at hotel in Banff

After a full day, check into your hotel in Banff and unwind.
CURRENCY150, 1 hr

7:30PM

Dinner at The Juniper Bistro

Enjoy dinner at The Juniper Bistro with breathtaking views, delicious dishes, and seasonal ingredients, open until 10 PM.
CURRENCY80, 2 hrs
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Day Day 3: From Banff to Jasper

Jasper, Canada on April 7, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Crag & Canyon

Start with a delightful breakfast at The Crag & Canyon, known for their hearty breakfast options, open at 7 AM.
CURRENCY40, 1 hr

8:00AM

Skywalk Adventure

Experience the breathtaking views from the Glass Skywalk above the canyon. Recommended to book in advance; typically, it runs until 6 PM.
CURRENCY50, 1.5 hrs

9:30AM

Travel to Jasper

Drive from Banff to Jasper, taking the stunning Icefields Parkway, known as one of the most scenic drives in the world.
CURRENCY0, 2 hrs

11:30AM

Exploring Jasper Townsite

Take a little time to explore the charming Jasper townsite, which has quaint shops and local galleries.
CURRENCY20, 1 hr

12:30PM

Lunch at Jasper Brewing Company

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Jasper Brewing Company, known for its locally brewed beers and comforting pub fare, open until 3 PM.
CURRENCY60, 1.5 hrs

2:00PM

Visit Maligne Lake

Drive to Maligne Lake for a scenic boat cruise experience. Boat tours typically run from late April, but check for specific schedules.
CURRENCY75, 2 hrs

4:00PM

Takakkaw Falls

Take a short drive to Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada's tallest waterfalls. Don’t forget your camera to capture this natural wonder!
CURRENCY0, 1 hr

5:30PM

Drive back to Jasper

Return to Jasper after an incredible day of adventure.
CURRENCY0, 30 mins

6:00PM

Dinner at The Raven Bistro

End the day with dinner at The Raven Bistro known for its seasonal menu and fine local ingredients; open until 10 PM.
CURRENCY70, 1.5 hrs
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Day Day 4: Return to Vancouver

Jasper, Canada on April 8, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at A&W

Fuel up for the day with a breakfast combo from A&W; it’s quick and offers a range of options, open from 7 AM.
CURRENCY25, 1 hr

8:00AM

Depart for Vancouver

Begin your return journey to Vancouver, taking the same scenic route back. The journey is approximately 9 hours.
CURRENCY0, 9 hrs

5:00PM

Lunch Stop at Kamloops

Stop for a late lunch in Kamloops at The Noble Pig Brewhouse, an ideal spot to refuel with local craft beer and delicious comfort food.
CURRENCY50, 1.5 hrs

6:30PM

Continue to Vancouver

After lunch, continue your drive back to Vancouver, reminiscing about the incredible sights you’ve experienced.
CURRENCY0, 2.5 hrs

9:00PM

Arrival in Vancouver

Return to the bustling city of Vancouver, concluding your unforgettable 4-day adventure.
CURRENCY0, 30 mins
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