The Best Two Week Canadian Rockies Itinerary

Planning my Canadian Rocky Mountain extravaganza trip was exhausting and pretty tricky. It took a lot of research, time, and sifting through endless pictures to understand all our options. I was striving in including the best destinations/experiences for our trip. After I came back to the States and thought about the great adventure, I felt obligated to put my experience and what I learned during the entire process on paper (or I guess internet to be exact). This Canadian Rockies itinerary contains only the best of the best, not just the famous Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. The area has an endless amount of magical regions. Let me warn you, that you will be exhausted at the end, but the experience will be so oh so rewarding.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.

Who Is This 14 Day Canadian Rockies Itinerary For

This itinerary is explicitly made for travelers who want to see the best of the Canadian Rockies. I have included photography spots, hikes, places to eat and the best views. You can move items around a bit, but I have tried to minimize the amount of driving time or traveling between each destination.

I have listed areas to eat as well, but if you are camping, you can leave those places out of your itinerary. Jameson and I chose to mix it up between restaurants and cooking at the campgrounds. If you are traveling on a tight budget, I suggest cooking your food. It is best to stop at a grocery store in Calgary on your way out.

Facts & Tips

1. Always check the visitor centers at each park before hiking. Trails can be closed at any time due to bears, wildfires, etc.
2. Buy bear spray! You can buy bear spray at the City of Banff.
3. For safety reasons, specific trails might require at least four people to hike as a group. Always check with the visitor center for wildlife advisories.
4. Leave no trace behind.
5. Stay on trails to prevent trail damage.
6. Yield to horses.
7. Bring ponchos or rain jackets in your day-pack. We were rained on numerous times during our hikes, and we were happy we brought our dry gear. Weather can change quickly in the mountains. We spotted several people hiking in the rain without ponchos, and they weren’t too happy.
8. Always bring a jacket. The weather is unpredictable.
9. Bring mosquito spray. The mosquitoes are abundant and ruthless.
10. Do not try to feed or get near any animals. It can be hard not to get close to these animals, especially the Elk. They look cute and harmless, but they can attack if they feel like their babies are threatened. Please be careful.

Best Time to Visit Canadian Rockies

For the most part, summer is the perfect time to visit the Canadian Rockies. The snow is melting creating safe hiking trails, and you can experience many fabulous hikes with stunning turquoise lakes. Do note, June can bring rainy weather (we experienced this) while July and August typically provide dryer weather conditions. The downside to July and August is a higher chance of forest fires. Most travelers come while school is out, so September is an opportunistic month to avoid the crowds. As a bonus, the back end of September can bring fall colors to the landscape.

Canadian Rockies Map

Below you will find all of the destinations I mention in this article. To help differentiate the destinations, I have color-coded the activities.

• Official Banff maps and brochures can be found here.
• Official Jasper maps and brochures can be found here.
• Official Yoho maps and brochures can be found here.

What to Pack

The weather in the Canadian Rockies can be unpredictable. Being prepared is critical. Here is some of the gear I packed:

Day Hiking

1. Sunscreen: Although our time in the Canadian Rockies was overcast, bring some just in case! >Buy some sunscreen, so you don’t accidentally burn!
2. Hiking Boots/Shoes: OMG this was honestly one of the muddiest, wet places I have ever hiked. If you don’t get actual hiking shoes or boots, you will have wet soggy feet. >Don’t have soggy wet feet. Buy my Hiking Shoes
3. Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps you prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. I also love how they now have pink socks too 🙂 >Buy Hiking Socks
4. Refillable water bottle: I always bring a Hydroflask on all my adventures. They are on the heavier side, but I know for a fact they will not break. I have had a few cheap water bottles break on me before. >Check Prices Now
5. Water: Hiking for sure requires water.
6. Sunglasses: Just in case you get lucky and the sun comes out. Also, I usually wear the most fashionable sunglasses when I hike. 🙂 >Check Out These Sunglasses
7. Snacks: The best snacks are jerky, nuts, energy bars. >Clif Bars are great for hiking so click HERE.
8. Trekking Poles: This is an optional product, but they help with the knees. The poles I have listed are known to be one of the best in the market. I am not going to lie I didn’t use trekking poles in Banff or Jasper, but I don’t have problems with my knees. Not everyone’s bodies are the same, so if you feel like you need some extra help, then check out my trekking poles. >Buy My Trekking Poles Here
9. Camera: I have linked the camera I used to take pictures of the Canadian Rockies. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.  >Buy Sony Camera Here
10. Crampons: This will help you not slip and fall with the snow and ice. I went at the end of June and only ran into snow once (Six Glaciers Trail). If you are hiking before the end of June, I highly recommend getting crampons. It sucks walking in the snow without them. >Buy your Crampons Here
11. First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started backpacking and camping. It is super portable. >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
12. Day Pack: The REI bag I have linked, we have had for seven years now, and it is still going strong! >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
13. Good hiking pants: These are probably the best hiking pants that I have found. They keep you dry in the crazy weather, and they are durable. I will say that I brought a lot of shorts with me but never wore them. It was a little too cold for me. Your best bet is leggings or hiking pants. >Buy my hiking pants here
14. Breathable sweat-wicking shirts  >Check Out This Shirt
15. Sports Bra: For women.
16. Jacket: Yes it was chilly at times in the summer >Buy My Favorite Jacket
17. Base Layers: If you run cold like me I recommend bringing them on the trip (Yes even in the summer). When you start your hike, you can then judge if they are needed or not. >Buy the bottoms here, >Buy the top here
18. Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the perfect sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
19. Bear Spray: You can usually buy this in the city of Banff.
20. Hammock: Hammocks are a great way to lounge around. They are perfect for naps. >Buy A Packable Hammock
21. Poncho or Rain Jacket: We were rained on so many times, so it is best to take a poncho with you at all times. >Buy A Great Rain jacket Here
22. Headlamp: Just in case you get stuck hiking at night! >Buy A Headlamp Now

Camping Gear

1. Everything in the Day Hike List Above and,
2. Tent: REI’s tents are one of my favorite tents. Love the good quality and how packable they are. >Buy The REI Half Dome Tent
3. Sleeping Pad: A sleeping pad is pretty much a small, packable inflatable mattress. I have tried many types of sleeping pads (cheap ones, light ones, comfortable ones), and the one I have linked is probably the best one in the market for comfort. It is my husbands sleeping pad, and it can be used all year long. >Check Out My All-Time Favorite Sleeping Pad
4. Spork: A spoon and fork in one. >Buy A Spork Now
5. Pillows: Pillows can take a lot of room, so I recommend buying an inflatable one. The one I have linked, is super comfy. >Buy The Comfy Inflatable Pillow
6. Sleeping Bag: One of the most critical aspects of getting a good nights sleep! Bringing a sleeping bag is a must. >Look At Prices
7. Sandals: I hate wearing my hiking shoes when I am hanging around the campsite, so bringing some sandals for leisure is a must for me. >Check Out These Sandals
8. Printed Camping reservations: Just in case anyone asks for it.
9. Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Medicine & Toiletries
10. Coffee Maker: Y’all this coffee maker is awesome! It comes with a press and cute little cups! >Buy This Awesome Coffee set here
11. Stove: Love this stove that we got for Christmas. Don’t forget to buy propane. (Note: Do not bring this on a plane with you, as it can get confiscated). >Buy Stove Here
12. Cookware Set: Love how packable my cookware set is. I can easily take it anywhere with me. We have used this countless times. >Buy My Cute Cookware Set

How to Travel to The Canadian Rockies

The quickest, cheapest and easiest way to get to the Canadian Rockies is through the city of Calgary. The International Airport in Calgary is about an hour and a half drive from Banff.

Alternatively, you can fly into Edmonton which is 3 hours and 15 minutes away from Jasper. If you are coming in from this route, I recommend driving to each area in this order: Jasper first, then Lake Louise, The City of Banff, Canmore, and lastly Yoho, then drive back to Edmonton.

We rented a car and camped in various areas. It rained on us most days and nights. It was unpleasant dealing with wet gear so frequently. I noticed we were vastly outnumbered by the amount of RVs at the campgrounds though. If I were to do it all over again, I probably would have rented an RV. 

Canadian Rockies Itinerary

Day One: Arrive in Calgary and Drive to The City of Banff

Most people arrive late on this day (we arrived at 5 pm). I would try not to schedule anything significant because anything can happen. Air Canada lost our baggage, so we came to Banff much later than we wanted to.

Calgary Accommodation

1. Applause Hotel Calgary Airport by CLIQUE is located by the Calgary Airport and has two rooftop hot tubs. >Check Prices and Availability Now
2. Hyatt Regency Calgary we stayed at this hotel and loved it. It is right in the center of the city.  >Check Prices and Availability Now
3. HI Calgary City Centre Hostels located downtown. >Check Prices and Availability Now

Banff Accommodation

1. Fairmont Banff Springs is a beautiful hotel to behold. I even mention this hotel twice in my itinerary below. This hotel had a spooky and eery feeling for me, and I loved it!  >Check Prices and Availability Now
2. Poplar Inn is a cute bed and breakfast located in the city of Banff.   >Check Prices and Availability Now
3. Banff International Hostel is located in Banff center. >Check Prices and Availability Now
4. Two Jack Lakeside or Two Jack Main Campgrounds are located next to Two Jack Lake. >More Information Here

Read More: Where To Stay in Banff National Park – Best Hotels, Resorts & Campgrounds

Day Two: Canadian Rockies Banff

Day Two is slow-paced and relaxing. I will warn you that the city is extremely touristy, but I still enjoyed the city.

• Breakfast at Whitebark Cafe: The Best coffee spot in Banff inside Banff Aspen Lodge.
• Two Jack Lake: A small lake that is a part of Lake Minnewanka. A perfect place to enjoy the sunrise.
• Take a Boat Tour of Lake Minnewanka (10 am): This boat tour was pretty fun even on a cloudy day.
• Take pictures at Johnson Lake: An area that locals like to visit more than tourists. You can have a picnic, swim or hike the 3km loop trail.
• Grab Lunch at Banff Avenue Brewing Company: Great place to relax. You can even sit outside on the patio and enjoy the views.
• Walk over to Cascade Gardens: We didn’t plan on going here, but when we were walking around the town we saw it and had to check it out. The garden has a beautiful path with pretty flowers, a pond, and an area to lounge.
• Drive up to Mount Norquay Lookout: The lookout is a great way to see the City of Banff from above. You can even see the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.
• Take pictures of Vermilion Lakes: This lake has stunning views of Mount Rundle. There is even a cute dock to take pictures. Sometimes you can also spot people kayaking on the lake.
• Take pictures at Banff Surprise Corner: I loved this spot! The views of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is incredible.
• Take a gondola up to Sulpher Mountain: Getting up to Sulpher Mountain is a must! You can either get to the peak by hiking or taking the gondola. Since we were going to be hiking all week, we decided to do the gondola ride.
• Take a dip at Banff Upper Hot Springs: This is a great way to relax at the end of the day.
• Eat Dinner at Park Restaurant & Distillery: This restaurant makes their house spirits and has a great selection of cocktails. Their menu focuses on Canadian inspired food.

Day Three: Bow Valley Parkway

Nestled in between Banff and Lake Louise, Bow Valley Parkway is known for its famous trail, the Johnston Canyon Trail. The parkway is closed from March 1st to June 25th between 8 pm and 8 am. To protect the wildlife, a time restriction was put in place. All businesses are still open and can be accessed from Trans-Canada Highway and the Castle Junction Exit.

Lake Louise Accommodation

I recommend spending the night in Lake Louise on this day.

1. Fairmont Château Lake Louise is located right next to Lake Louise; the Fairmont is a great hotel. The views are stunning, and the best hikes are just a walk away.  >Check Prices and Availability Now
2. Mountaineer Lodge is located in the center of Lake Louise. >Check Prices and Availability Now
3. HI-Lake Louise Alpine Centre is located in the center of the city of Lake Louise. It is a hostel with affordable prices. >Check Prices and Availability Now
4. Lake Louise Tent Campground is where we stayed. Make sure not to grab a site next to the restrooms as we did. People are noisy especially when they are cleaning dishes after eating/cooking. The campsite has hot water, showers, and flushable toilets. >More Information Here

Bow Valley Parkway Itinerary

• Take a morning hike on Johnston Canyon Trail: I suggest getting up super early to complete the hike. When we started, there were a few people on the trail, but on the way back, the trail was very crowded. Be sure to hike all the way to the Ink Pots. It sure is glorious!
• Eat at The Johnston Canyon Resort: We ate here following the long hike. They had a lovely patio to enjoy the beautiful day. The food was okay, but you are pretty limited on restaurants in this area.
• Take pictures of Castle Mountain: Castle Mountain was gorgeous! I loved how it did remind me of a castle. I suggest stopping at the Castle Mountain gas station and have a picnic here if you do not want to eat at The Johnston Canyon Resort. The gas station has picnic tables, food, and alcohol.
• Take pictures of Morant’s Curve: Sadly there was road construction so we couldn’t see Morant’s Curve. This view is located near Lake Louise and is a beautiful spot where the railroad passes.
• Eat dinner at Lake Louise Inn: The Inn has a few options for restaurants.

Day Four: Canadian Rockies Lake Louise

Lake Louise Itinerary

• Canoe on Lake Louise during sunrise: I enjoyed Canoeing at Lake Louise during the sunrise. The colors of the sky were just outstanding, and there were no crowds. They provide you with breakfast too. Jameson and I made reservations by emailing Fairmont Lake Louise a few weeks in advance and paid the day before.
• Start the hike up to Lake Agnes Tea House: If there is only one hike you want to do at Lake Louise then this is it! I loved hiking up to the Tea House even if it was a little crowded. Lake Agnes was breathtaking!
• Hike up to Little Beehive and back to Lake Agnes Tea House: Want a better view of Lake Louise? This hike will give you stunning views of Lake Louise and the Fairmont Hotel.
• Have lunch at Lake Agnes Tea House: I am not a tea drinker, but this place hit the spot. When we arrived, it was cold and rainy so having delicious warm tea was the best. The sandwiches were pretty good too. You can even enjoy the food outside on a beautiful day or take it to go.
• Hike up to Big Beehive: I am not going to lie, this hike is pretty steep and hard to climb. But, once you are up there the views are worth every painful step.
• Hike down to Six Glaciers Tea House: This tea house is not as remotely crowded as Lake Agnes, but boy was the view stunning! You know that mountain that you see off in the distance on Lake Louise with all the glaciers? Well, this trail brings you even closer to those mountains. It is pretty impressive.
• Hike down to the Fairmont Hotel and eat dinner at the Hotel and enjoy the views: There are a couple of restaurants to choose from in the Fairmont Hotel. We made sure to pick one with a patio so we can take in the view.  As we ate our dinner, we just stared in awe at the majesty in front of us.

Read More: The 15 Best Hikes in Banff National Park

Day Five: Canadian Rockies Lake Louise

Lake Louise Itinerary

• Sunrise at Moraine Lake: Sunrise is probably your only chance to get Moraine Lake all to yourself. After about 7:00, this place gets busy!!! What impacts the area is there is the minimal parking. The parking lot is much smaller than the number of visitors. I highly suggest getting there early. Jameson and I were lucky to have the place to ourselves for an hour or so.
• Breakfast at Moraine Lake Lodge: If you aren’t staying at the lodge, it can be a bit difficult to get early breakfast. The restaurant only allows guests to eat in the establishment until mid-morning.
• Rent a canoe to explore Moraine Lake: The colorful kayaks make for the perfect pictures so why not ride on one of them?
• Buy a sandwich at Snowshoe Cafe and bring it with you to eat on the Larch Valley/Minnestimma Lakes Trail: Larch Valley is a spectacular hike but especially in the Fall. The Larch Trees turn into a striking yellow color. In late July the wildflowers start to bloom.
• Eat dinner at Bill Peyto’s Cafe: Cafe where the locals eat food made from scratch such as pasta, salad, and burgers.

Day Six: Icefields Parkway

Icefields Parkway Accommodation

1. Num-Ti-Jah Lodge is located on the Icefields Parkway near Bow Lake. >Check Prices and Availability Now
2. Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge Located 33 mi south from the town of Jasper on the Icefields Parkway. I loved the restaurant here. >Check Prices and Availability Now
3. Waterfowl Lakes and Wilcox Creek campgrounds are both located on the Icefields Parkway. We stayed at both campgrounds. Waterfowl Lakes the first day and Wilcox pass the second day.

Icefields Parkway Itinerary

Icefields Parkway is one of the most stunning stretches of highway I have ever seen. I loved every second of it. I highly recommend spending at least two full days in this area. It would be a shame to try to do this highway all in one day.

• Get breakfast at the Trailhead Cafe: Try to get here early. This restaurant gets packed!
• Take a reflection picture of Herbert Lake: A quick stop to this small glacial lake is a great way to start the Icefields Parkway road trip.
• Hike to Hector Lake: Finding the trailhead to Hector Lake is a bit difficult but, worth the effort. Most people pass by this trail so you might have the lake all to yourself. Hector Lake is one of the largest lakes in Banff National Park.
• Take pictures at Bow Lake: Bow Lake is located right next to Icefields Parkway, so it is pretty easy to stop and take pictures.
• Lunch at Num-Ti-Jah Lodge: The restaurant is located inside the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge and can be considered pricey.
• Hike the Bow Summit Trail to view Peyto Lake: I loved this hike because the views were unbelievable at the end. The only downside is that it is an extremely crowded trail.
• Hike to Chephren Lake: Another unknown trail to tourists, Chephren Lake is a great way to get away from the crowds. You will have a turquoise blue lake, surrounded by mountains all to your self. But let me warn you, that the trail is very muddy.
• Dinner at The Crossing Resort: You will have the choice between a pub, restaurant and a cafe.

Day Seven: Icefields Parkway

Icefields Parkway Itinerary

• Breakfast at The Crossing Resort: There is a pub, restaurant, and a cafe.
• Take a short hike to Mistaya Canyon: The trail is about 1.1 km round trip and features a waterfall. Finding the trailhead is relatively easy.
• Take pictures at Cirrus Mountain Viewpoint: Before getting to Parker Ridge Trailhead, be sure to visit the viewpoint to see Cirrus Mountain and all its glory.
• Hike Parker Ridge Trail: This trail is a must. The views are out of this world! It is a 2.7 km trail with an elevation gain of 250.
• Eat lunch at Chalet inside the Discovery Centre: Chalet resembles a cafeteria with burgers, pizza, soups, etc. The food was ok. I am only listing it because the area does not have many options.
• Hike Wilcox Pass Trail: A great place to spot bighorn sheep. I consider it one of the best hikes in the Canadian Rockies.
• Check out the Athabasca Glacier by either hiking to the viewpoint or buying Glacier Adventure tickets: There are two options for experiencing the Athabasca Glacier. The first is to hike to the glacier but, you can not walk on it (1.4 km round trip, elevation gain/loss of 60 meters). The second is to buy tickets to walk on the glacier.
• Dinner at the Altitude located inside the Discovery Centre: We dined at the restaurant and enjoyed the food. The restaurant has plenty of windows so you can view the surrounding mountains while you eat.

Day Eight: Icefields Parkway/ Jasper National Park

Jasper Accommodation

1. Fairmont Jaspar Park Lodge is a resort located on the shores of Beauvert Lake just four miles away from the town of Jaspar.  >Check Prices and Availability Now
2.  The Crimson Jasper is located right in the middle of Jaspar. >Check Prices and Availability Now
3. HI-Jasper is a shared dormitory accommodation located near The Whistlers Mountain Trail. >Check Prices and Availability Now
4. Wapiti and Whistlers Campground are the campgrounds located near the city of Jasper. We stayed at Whistlers Campground.  The area is unique to a type of bird who continuously whistles. Whistlers campground is going under renovations in 2019, but Wapiti is a good alternative. >Make reservations here. 

Jasper Itinerary

• Eat breakfast at Sunwapta Falls Resort: The best meal we had in a long time. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was relaxing.
• Take pictures of Upper Sunwapta Falls: This is a comfortable stop with views of Sunwapta Waterfall. You have the option to also hike to Lower Sunwapta Falls from here. It is a 2.8 km return with an elevation gain/loss of 87m.
• Take pictures of Athabasca Falls: Another easy stop before getting to the City of Jasper.
• Hike the Valley of the Five Lakes: Before getting to the town of Jasper, check out this trail with colorful jade-blue lakes. The path is a 4.6 km loop.
• Eat lunch at Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria: We loved eating here! They had a variety of gourmet pizza and plenty of beer to enjoy.
• Take the Gondola up Whistlers Mountain and hike up to Whistlers peak: Whislers Mountain should be on everyone’s itinerary because the 360-degree views are unbelievable. Make sure to hike up to the summit for even more spectacular ever changing views.
• Enjoy Pyramid Lake, Lake Edith, Lake Annette, and Lac Beauvert: Jasper has several crystal clear lakes to enjoy. Be sure to visit them all! They are a great way to take reflection pictures of the mountains.
• Dinner at Earls: Great drinks and as a bonus, they have a patio so you can enjoy the views.

Day Nine: Jasper Canadian Rockies

Jasper Itinerary

• Eat breakfast at one of the Bear Paw Bakeries: A delicious bakery with excellent coffee. Try the white raspberry scones.
• Take pictures of Maligne Canyon Overlook or Hike Maligne Canyon: Maligne Hiking trail is an excellent place for photography with great views of the waterfalls and the canyon.
• Take pictures of Medicine Lake: A quick stop on the way to Maligne Lake.
• Arrive at Maligne Lake and take pictures of the lake: Maligne Lake is one of the most beautiful Canadian Rockies lakes. If you visit Spirit Island, you will understand its mysterious beauty.
• Take the boat out to Spirit Island: This was probably my favorite part of Jasper National Park. Spirit Island is indeed magical.
• Have lunch at Maligne Lake Chalet: If you take a boat out to Spirit Island, you can include lunch in the package.
• Hike the Sulphur Skyline Trail: A pretty strenuous hike with an uphill trail that is worth every bit of energy spent. The 360-degree view is spectacular. You may even run into a marmot and a herd of goats.
• Take a dip at the Miette Hot Springs: After hiking Sulphur Skyline, Miette Hot Springs is a must. This spring is one of the three Canadian Rockies hot springs located in the national parks.
• Eat dinner at Jasper Curry Place: After hiking all day, this place hit the spot. We slept very well after the delicious meal.

Day Ten: Jasper Canadian Rockies

Jasper Itinerary

The entire day is reserved solely for the Edith Cavell hike. Please note that this hike is closed in 2018, due to construction. If you are planning a trip in summer 2019, I highly recommend this hike.

• Eat breakfast at Coco’s Cafe: Try the favorite Jasper Haze Latte.
• Hike Edith Cavell Trail: Usually opens mid-July the trail is 6-8km  elevation gain/loss of 500m and it takes 3-5 hours to complete. There have also been times where a permit is needed to hike this trail. I recommend visiting the visitors center the day before for more information.
• Eat Dinner at Jasper Brewing Company: We sadly didn’t have time to eat here, but every time we walked by the place was packed. I love eating at breweries, and I will make sure to try this next time I am in town.

Day Eleven: Yoho National Park

Yoho Accommodation

1. Emerald Lake Lodge is located on the shores on Emerald Lake. I honestly fell in love with the hotel views and vowed to come back and stay at the lodge. >Check Prices and Availability Now
2. Cathedral Mountain Lodge is located in the Kicking Horse River Valley. Surrounded by mountains the lodge resembles a log cabin. >Check Prices and Availability Now
3. Fossil Beds Guesthouse is located in Field. >Check Prices and Availability Now
4. The Kicking Horse is the most popular campground in Yoho. The Park has three other campgrounds in the national park all of which are first come, first serve. I suggest arriving early to get the campground you want. >You can find more information here.

Yoho Itinerary

• Eat breakfast at The Wicked Cup: Serving organic coffee and teas, food and alcohol.
• Drive to Yoho National Park: The hard part of driving back to Yoho is trying not to stop on Icefields Parkway.
• Check out Takakkaw Falls and take pictures: Driving to Takakkaw Falls was a bit nerve-racking, but once you are there you are greeted with a stunning waterfall.
• Drive to Emerald Lake and have lunch at Cilantro on the Lake: Cilantro on the Lake is a restaurant located on the shores of Emerald Lake.
• Walk around Emerald Lake and take pictures or rent a canoe: There is an easy loop trail around the lake. Just make sure to bring hiking shoes since the trail can be muddy at times.
• Hike to Wapta Falls: The trail is pretty straightforward and is 4.6 km return. The waterfall is about 150 meters wide!
• Eat dinner at The Siding Café: One of the few restaurants located in Field, the café include paninis, soups, and bowls.

Day Twelve: Yoho

Yoho Itinerary

• Breakfast at Truffle Pigs Bistro: We ate brunch here and loved it! The food was excellent, and I loved the flying pig’s decorations. Make sure to check when the restaurant opens, it might affect your visit to Lake O’Hara.
• Visit Lake O’Hara by bus all day: Getting to Lake O’Hara can be difficult. I suggest four ways to visit, all of which are listed here. The ideal approach would be to book the bus for a day trip but, getting a seat can be difficult. If you are keen on seeing Lake O’Hara, make sure to start planning early. Note, if you need lunch for the day, Cathedral Mountain has to-go meals.
• Eat at Cathedral Mountain Lodge: Cozy restaurant with beautiful views of the river.

Day Thirteen: Canmore

Canmore Accommodation

1. Falcon Crest Lodge by CLIQUE features rooms with kitchenettes and fireplaces. >Check Prices and Availability Now
2. Lady MacDonald Country Inn is a comfortable bed and breakfast. >Check Prices and Availability Now
3. HI Canmore Hostel/Alpine Club of Canada is located 2.8 miles city center. >Check Prices and Availability Now
4. Spray Lake Campground is located 16 km south of Canmore. The campground is located right next to the lake and can hold tents and RVs. >You can find more information here

Canmore Itinerary

• Eat Breakfast at the JK Bakery Cafe: Yummy croissant, yogurt parfait, and coffee.
• Hike to the Ha Ling Peak: This hike is 5.6 km round trip trail, and it is rated as difficult.
• Eat Lunch at the Wood Restaurant and Lodge: Great selection of craft beers and food.
• Hike the three sisters pathway: The pathway is 6.8 km round trip and listed as easy. A perfect way to capture pictures of the famous three sisters.
• Try to witness a moose: Near Mount Engadine Lodge there is a great chance to spot moose.
• Eat Dinner at the Aroma Mexican Restaurant: Fresh ingredients are always used.

Day Fourteen: Calgary and Fly Back Home

Sadly all great things must come to an end. It is time to head back home. I hope you enjoyed this itinerary. I am hoping this helps you with planning the perfect Canadian Rockies vacation. The Canadian Rockies is indeed a magical place featuring stunning lakes, vast mountains and plenty of wildlife. I hope you enjoy Canada! Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions! Be sure to check out my guides Canada:

• 21 Awesome Things To Do In Jasper National Park
• The 15 Absolute Best Hikes In Banff National Park
• Things To Do In Quebec City Canada

Canadian Rockies Road Trip Itinerary Pin For Later: