About This Drive
The drive from Vancouver to Banff is one of Canada's most spectacular journeys. Cross the Coast Mountains, traverse the arid Thompson Valley, and enter the majestic Canadian Rockies. This route showcases British Columbia's diverse landscapes before reaching the alpine paradise of Banff National Park.
Stops Along the Way
Sea-to-Sky Highway
120 km from startStunning coastal drive past Squamish to Whistler
Kamloops
350 km from startGateway to the Thompson Valley wine region
Rogers Pass
550 km from startHistoric mountain crossing through Glacier National Park
Lake Louise
800 km from startIconic turquoise lake surrounded by glaciers
Banff Town
850 km from startCharming mountain resort with hot springs
Driving Tips
- 1
Purchase a Parks Canada pass for national park entry
- 2
Check avalanche conditions and road closures in winter
- 3
Book Lake Louise and Banff accommodations well in advance
- 4
The Icefields Parkway extension to Jasper is worth adding
- 5
Carry chains in winter—required on mountain passes
Alternate Routes
Trans-Canada Highway 1
Crowsnest Highway 3 southern route