West Coast Wonders: The Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary

The American West Coast isn’t the only destination for a memorable road trip. Venture north into Canada for an extraordinary adventure through breathtaking landscapes, vibrant urban centers, and stunning natural beauty. This comprehensive itinerary includes all the top attractions along the Canadian coastline.

The West Coast of Canada is a paradise for adventurous travelers, and rightly so! It boasts stunning vistas ranging from the awe-inspiring Rocky Mountains to the untamed shores of Vancouver Island. Home to numerous national parks, an extraordinary array of plants and animals, rich cultural tapestries, vibrant urban centers such as Victoria and Vancouver, along with picturesque routes offering panoramic ocean views—Western Canada encapsulates every ingredient needed for an unforgettable experience. road trip .

Are you considering a trip to Canada? Below are some pointers to assist you with your planning. :

• Which cities in Canada attract the highest number of visitors?
• The 7 Most Stunning Nature Parks and Reserves in Canada
• Canada: Top 10 Islands You Can’t Miss on Your Vacation

Days 1-2: Vancouver, a city of nature

Our journey begins in Vancouver On the southern coastline of Canada lies this vibrant metropolis nestled amidst stunning natural scenery, which truly deserves more than merely two days for an adequate exploration. Meander through Stanley Park, the renowned urban oasis featuring the country’s biggest aquarium—the Vancouver Aquarium. Should your schedule permit, also make sure to check out Third Beach and soak in the picturesque vistas overlooking the bay.

Discover Granville Island through its bustling marketplace, artisan booths, and dining spots, then move on to the historically rich Gastown featuring chic shops and its iconic steam-driven whistling clock.

Days 3-7: Vancouver Island, a magical tale surrounded by water

Vancouver Island alone deserves a complete journey due to its lush beauty and abundant offerings. Following a ferry crossing from Vancouver, you will reach Nanaimo, a charming seaside city, then proceed to Cathedral Grove Park to admire the towering trees of this primeval woodland, eventually arriving at Tofino, famous for its surfing-friendly shores.

Next, venture into Clayoquot Sound to witness an array of bird species and spot whales. Afterward, head over to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve for a variety of outdoor escapades either along the shorelines or deep within the forests.

The tour ends in Victoria In Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, you can explore the stunning Butchart Gardens, visit the Royal BC Museum, and enjoy a leisurely walk around the picturesque harbor.

Days 8-9: Whistler, the renowned mountain town

After taking the ferry from Victoria to Vancouver, head north along the aptly named Sea to Sky Highway, a scenic route with spectacular views of the ocean and then the mountains.

Stop by the quaint town of Squamish to marvel at the Stawamus Chief, a towering granite dome, and enjoy a trip aboard the Sea to Sky Gondola, which ascends up to 885 meters above sea level.

Upon reaching the renowned mountain town of Whistler, you have the option to engage in outdoor pursuits like hiking and mountain biking, or choose to explore the village at your leisure.

Days 10-12: The verdant Okanagan Valley

It's time to head inland, leaving the coastline behind as we drive through the town of Kamloops towards the stunning Okanagan Valley, located adjacent to the lake known by the same name.

Experience the shores and aquatic activities, notably around the town of Kelowna, and sample some of the regional vintages.

Days 13-15: Exploring Jasper and Its Massive National Park

Next, make your way to the boundary where the Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Alberta meet, particularly to Jasper National Park—the biggest national park in Canada. Here you can explore stunning alpine landscapes, visit the strikingly blue Lake Maligne, and unwind at the thermal pools known as the Miette Hot Springs.

Days 16-18: Exploring Banff and Its Hot Springs

To get to the charming coastal town of Banff, we can travel along the breathtaking Icefields Parkway, which offers stunning views including stops at Sunwapta Falls, the majestic Columbia Icefield, and Peyto Lake, renowned as one of the loveliest lakes around. the Rockies Situated within Banff National Park, this location offers access to various natural attractions like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, multiple alpine hiking paths, and notably, the renowned Banff hot springs.

Days 19-20: Calgary, always bold

Last stop for Calgary , traveling through Canmore, a charming small mountain town, offers a soothing transition back to civilization. Upon reaching Calgary, be sure to include a stop at the Calgary Tower, which stands as the city’s iconic symbol.

Certainly! If you're organizing your Canadian road trip for July, make sure not to miss out on the Calgary Stampede—the largest outdoor event globally—featuring rodeo contests, musical performances, and various spectacles.