The long way there
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.
Where to pull over
Sea-to-Sky Highway
120 km inStunning coastal drive past Squamish to Whistler
Kamloops
350 km inGateway to the Thompson Valley wine region
Rogers Pass
550 km inHistoric mountain crossing through Glacier National Park
Lake Louise
800 km inIconic turquoise lake surrounded by glaciers
Banff Town
850 km inCharming 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
Other ways through
Trans-Canada Highway 1
Crowsnest Highway 3 southern route