4-Day Scenic Journey from Jasper to Banff: Nature and Adventure in the Canadian Rockies

Day 1: Explore Jasper

Jasper, Canada on June 3, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Jasper Brewing Co.

Start your day with a hearty breakfast featuring local ingredients and a cozy atmosphere, open daily from 8am to 11am.
CAD15, 1h

9:30am

Maligne Canyon hike

Walk along the breathtaking Maligne Canyon, famous for its deep limestone gorge and beautiful waterfalls. The trail is well-marked and open year-round.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Foodgrains Artisan Bakery & Cafe

Enjoy fresh sandwiches, pastries, and coffee at this popular local bakery open 7am-3pm daily.
CAD20, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Jasper SkyTram

Take the Jasper SkyTram up Whistlers Mountain for spectacular views of Jasper National Park. Open 9am to 5:30pm in June.
CAD35, 2h

4:00pm

Relax at Patricia Lake

Unwind by the serene Patricia Lake, perfect for a relaxing stroll or canoe paddle.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Raven Bistro

Dine on creative northern fare with a focus on local produce and game in a warm ambiance. Open from 5pm to 10pm.
CAD50, 1.5h

Day 2: Lakes and Nature

Jasper, Canada on June 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bear's Paw Bakery

Grab a quick and delicious breakfast of fresh pastries and coffee before an active day, open 7am to 2pm.
CAD12, 45m

8:30am

Maligne Lake Cruise

Take the iconic boat cruise to Spirit Island on Maligne Lake, famed for its stunning alpine scenery. The cruise runs from 9am to 3pm, duration 3 hours.
CAD70, 3h

12:00pm

Picnic Lunch at Maligne Lake

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch by the lake, soaking in spectacular mountain views and fresh air.
CAD15, 1h

1:30pm

Visit Medicine Lake

Explore Medicine Lake nearby which mysteriously disappears underground in summer; perfect for photos and short walks.
Free, 1.5h

4:00pm

Drive to Jasper townsite relax

Return to Jasper and relax in town or visit Jasper Planetarium for a calm evening. Planetarium open 7pm to 10pm.
CAD18, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Syrahs of Jasper

Enjoy a refined dining experience with a creative Canadian menu in a cozy setting, open until 9:30pm.
CAD55, 1.5h

Day 3: Scenic Drive

Jasper to Banff, Canada on June 5, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Coco's Cafe

Have an early wholesome breakfast at this friendly spot open 7am to 2pm, before the drive.
CAD15, 1h

8:00am

Drive Icefields Parkway

Drive the spectacular Icefields Parkway (about 3.5 hours drive) with stops at Athabasca Falls and the Columbia Icefield for scenic views and photo opportunities.
Athabasca Falls Free, Columbia Icefield Entry CAD60, 6h

12:30pm

Lunch at Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre

Enjoy lunch at the Glacier Discovery Centre cafe while marveling at the nearby glacier.
CAD20, 1h

2:30pm

Arrive in Banff and check in

Settle into your accommodation in Banff and prepare for afternoon activities.
Varies, 1h

3:30pm

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Relax in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, open 9am to 11pm, ideal for soothing tired muscles after the drive.
CAD8, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Maple Leaf

Enjoy Canadian-inspired fine dining with views of Mount Rundle, open 5pm to 10pm.
CAD60, 1.5h

Day 4: Banff Highlights

Banff, Canada on June 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wild Flour Bakery

Start your day with artisanal baked goods and coffee at this local favourite, open 7am to 3pm.
CAD14, 1h

9:00am

Banff Gondola to Sulphur Mountain

Ride the gondola for panoramic views from Sulphur Mountain. The gondola operates from 9am to 8pm with last ride up at 7:30pm.
CAD60, 2h

11:30am

Hike Legacy Trail

Enjoy a scenic moderate hike along the Legacy Trail, great for views and wildlife spotting; take your time as it’s a 5.4 km trail.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Bear Street Tavern

Taste local beers and hearty sandwiches or pizzas in this lively atmosphere, open 11:30am to 10pm.
CAD25, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Banff Avenue shops and galleries

Take a leisurely stroll along Banff Avenue to browse shops, galleries, and enjoy the town vibe.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Early Dinner at The Bison Restaurant

Savour farm-to-table cuisine focusing on local ingredients in a rustic-chic setting, open 5pm to 9pm.
CAD50, 1.5h