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Your Handy Companion for a Vancouver to Calgary Drive – To Enjoy a Stress-Free Trip!
- Time Zone
- Best Time to Go
- Things to Know
- What to Expect in Vancouver
- What to Expect in Calgary
- What are the driving routes from Vancouver to Calgary?
- How to Drive from Vancouver to Calgary
- Step 1: Prepare for your drive from Vancouver
- Step 2: Start your drive from Vancouver
- Step 3: Take a break at scenic destinations
- Whistler, BC
- Joffre Lakes Park
- Kamloops
- Revelstoke
- Banff
- Step 4: Reach Calgary
- What to Do in Calgary
- Meet the animals at Calgary Zoo
- Unlock the past at Heritage Park
- Feel the rhythm at Studio Bell
- Saddle up at the Calgary Stampede
- Where to Stay in Calgary
- Hotel Arts
- Fairmont Palliser
- Le Germain Hotel
Vancouver to Calgary is the ultimate road trip! The drive will take you to the most picturesque places, from coastal views to mountainous landscapes.
There’s never a dull moment on the road, as there are scenic stops here and there that’ll let you discover and explore other areas in BC and Alberta, such as national parks, pristine lakes, alpine forests, and charming towns.
But it’s not exactly the fastest road trip. Don’t worry, though! We’ve done this before and have a couple of recommendations to make the drive even more adventurous. No time to waste, and read on!
Time Zone
Vancouver: Pacific Standard Time (GMT -7)
Calgary: Mountain Standard Time (GMT -6)
Best Time to Go
The best time to drive from Vancouver to Calgary is from May to early September. Avoid winter months, as driving on the highway can be hazardous due to the risk avalanches.
If you want to avoid large crowds, skip summer drives since school’s out and visitors will start flooding in. However, it’s when many activities and experiences are open.
Remember to look out for wildfire updates, which can happen in the areas you’ll be driving in.
Things to Know
Currency: Canadian dollar (CAD)
Language: English
Calling Code:
- Vancouver: 604
- Calgary: 403
What to Expect in Vancouver
Vancouver, British Columbia, is a bustling metropolis with gorgeous landscapes. You get the best of both worlds in this city: urban living and nature.
The weather here is mild compared to the usual Canadian climate. Some would say it’s one of the warmest in the country, although it is fairly rainy and gloomy.
Traffic is bad in Vancouver, and it’s no surprise that it often ranks as one of the worst traffic jams in Canada. If you’re going on a road trip, skip rush hours.
But it’s a walkable city that’s exciting to live in. It also has a good public transit system, diverse communities, and endless food options.
What to Expect in Calgary
Calgary, Alberta’s largest city, offers both urban and suburban lifestyles. The downtown core feels very much like a city, but it remains close to the suburban communities.
Due to its location near the Canadian Rockies, dress in layers! Winters are harsh and often leave heavy snowfall, but it still remains one of the sunniest places in the country.
It’s also a diverse city with all sorts of offerings, from the culinary landscape to the theatre scene. It’s not a walkable city, though, so keep your car even after your road trip.
What are the driving routes from Vancouver to Calgary?
There are two driving routes from Vancouver to Calgary: via the Trans-Canada Highway and Highway 99.
The fastest route to reach Calgary from Vancouver is via the Trans-Canada Highway, which will take 10.5 to 11 hours nonstop.
The picturesque route is Highway 99, or Sea-to-Sky. It’s in the north and runs through the coastline, going to Whistler, and is quite challenging due to winding roads, cliffside bends, and avalanches.
Nonetheless, both routes can be affected by avalanches and other roadside conditions since you’ll be driving through mountainous areas. That’s why it’s important to check the weather app and local updates about the routes.
How to Drive from Vancouver to Calgary
When driving from Vancouver to Calgary, take either the Trans-Canada Highway or Highway 99. The drive will take over 10 hours without stopping, so take breaks at the scenic stops along the way.
Step 1: Prepare for your drive from Vancouver
Media credit: vancouver
The Vancouver-Calgary road trip is a long drive. If you’re renting a car, expect to pay approximately $100 a day for an SUV.
Before heading out, triple-check everything you need to bring, such as:
- An offline or physical map
- Water and snacks
- First-aid kit
- Emergency car kit
- Toiletry kit
- Portable chargers for mobile phones
- Bear spray (when stopping in the mountains)
- Sunscreen
- Waterproof jackets
Remember to gas up and check your tires!
Step 2: Start your drive from Vancouver
Media credit: vancouver
Driving from Vancouver to Calgary will take over 10 hours, excluding rest stops. If you want to get to Calgary faster, head to Burnaby and take the Trans-Canada Highway. It’s fairly straightforward, but it isn’t the most exciting option.
For the scenic Sea-to-Sky route, drive north, going past West Vancouver. You’ll continue going to Duffy Lake Road, then Highway 99, turn onto Caribou Highway, to reach the Trans-Canada Highway.
You’ll pass through Kamloops, Revelstoke, and Banff until you finally reach Calgary.
Step 3: Take a break at scenic destinations
Media credit: vancouver
Take advantage of your drive by stopping at several destinations. It’s a long trip, after all, so it would be wise to take a break from time to time.
You can explore BC and Alberta in one go. You can stop for a few hours or a couple of days to rest at campgrounds or hotels in the cities you’ll be driving through, like Whistler, Revelstoke, and Banff.
This way, you can pause from driving and stretch your legs. Visit local restaurants, take restroom breaks, and explore a little bit before driving off again.
Here are several stops you can take from Vancouver to Calgary to make your road trip more adventurous!
Whistler, BC
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Distance from Vancouver: 121 km
Website
Whistler, with its stunning mountains, alpine forests, and hiking trails, should be on your bucket list. It’s home to the largest ski resort in Canada, but it’s equally exciting when it’s not snowing!
You can stay in the village, full of shops, restaurants, attractions, and hotels. Ride the gondola to see the town from the top, go hiking in the Blackcomb Mountains, take a dip at the beach, and join heart-pounding activities (maybe try the bobsleigh!).
If you need ideas on how to enjoy Whistler, check out our article here.
Joffre Lakes Park
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Distance from Vancouver: 182 km
Website
Just an hour from Whistler, Joffre Lakes Park is perfect for a quick scenic stop. This is for adventurers who are ready to hike, approximately 4 to 5 hours, round-trip.
The 11 km hike is worth it, especially once you reach the striking turquoise lakes. There are three lakes you can stop at: Lower, Middle, and Upper. If you don’t want to hike all the way, Lower Joffre Lake is only five minutes from the trailhead.
There’s a parking lot at the start of the trail, although it’s small, so your trip here may depend on whether there’s an available space or not. Remember not to park on the highway.
Kamloops
Media credit: tourismkamloops
Distance from Vancouver: 354 km
After a scenic hike at Joffre Lakes Park, drive three hours to reach Kamloops. It’s a gorgeous city with breathtaking backdrops, exciting outdoor activities, and relaxing spots to unwind.
Walk the trails of the Kenna Cartwright Nature Park, go on an educational visit at the BC Wildlife Park, and take a bite out of the local food scene!
Revelstoke
Media credit: revelstoke
Distance from Vancouver: 564 km
Website
Revelstoke is a destination you mustn’t miss on your way to Calgary! It’s a small town but packed with adventurous things to do!
Bike through the rugged terrain of Boulder Mountain or go on a short hike at Mount Revelstoke National Park. If you’re driving your RV, there are plenty of lakeside campgrounds that will bring you closer to nature.
Want to make the most out of your Revelstoke stop? Check out our handy travel guide!
Banff
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Distance from Vancouver: 864 km
Website
Banff needs no introduction. This postcard-perfect Albertan destination is popular with locals and tourists for a reason.
There are an unlimited number of things you can do in Banff, like visiting the glacier-fed Lake Louise, hiking to the waterfalls of Johnston Canyon, kayaking Vermillion Lakes, and unwinding at the Banff Upper Hot Springs.
You’ll need to stay for a couple of days here if you want to tick off all the things on your to-do list. We find that three days is enough for a quick stop without rushing.
Step 4: Reach Calgary
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From Banff, you only need to drive for an hour and a half to reach Calgary without traffic. You’ll be continuing your drive along Trans-Canada Highway, which goes onto 16th Avenue NW, and then to Sarcee Trail West.
What to Do in Calgary
Meet the animals at Calgary Zoo
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Address: 210 St. George’s Drive NE
Contact: (403) 232-9300, [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9 am – 6 pm
Website
A family-friendly spot is the Calgary Zoo, where people of all ages can see wild animals in real life while supporting wildlife conservation. With several exhibits, you can explore the animal kingdom of different continents in one place.
One of the most popular habitats is the Penguin Plunge, where you’ll witness four different kinds of penguins waddle, dive, and burrow. Meanwhile, Exploration Asia will take you on a journey to see fascinating animals that thrive in the fauna.
Unlock the past at Heritage Park
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Address: 1900 Heritage Dr SW
Contact: (403) 268-8500, [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm (click here for updates on seasonal hours)
Website
Calgary offers a cool way to learn about history. Heritage Park is an outdoor museum that features various exhibitions, collections, and activities for the whole gang!
Admire the huge collection of antique vehicles, explore historical sites, sail with the S.S. Moyie, ride the Ferris wheel, take a stroll in the outdoor spaces, and shop ‘til you drop in old-fashioned stores!
Heritage Park will let you experience Calgary’s past. The structures look like they were built back in the old days, so it’s truly an immersive experience!
Feel the rhythm at Studio Bell
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Address: 850 4 St SE
Contact: (403) 543-5115, [email protected]
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
Website
Music lovers must visit Studio Bell, which has five floors to explore! It has several permanent and temporary exhibits that tell the story of Canada’s music scene, including immersive experiences!
Here, you can learn the names of artists who contributed to the music industry, sing your heart out inside the vocal booths, and play some beats using the instruments!
Studio Bell is in the East Village, just a 10-minute walk from Calgary Tower. It’s close to several hotels, making it easily accessible even without using your vehicle.
Saddle up at the Calgary Stampede
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Address: Stampede Park – 1410 Stampede Trl SE
Contact: Online form
When: Every year in July
Website
For individuals visiting in July, you cannot miss out on the Calgary Stampede! It’s a much-anticipated annual festival, taking place for 10 days every July.
Many activities happen in this event, which celebrates Western heritage. Expect an explosion of exciting activities, such as rodeo competitions, powwows, canine contests, live performances, and, of course, the nightly finale of fireworks.
Although if you’re coming to the Calgary Stampede, we suggest you keep your vehicle parked at your hotel. Traffic will be bad, so it’s best to use the CTrain.
Where to Stay in Calgary
Hotel Arts
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Address: 119 12 Ave SW
Contact: (403) 266-4611, [email protected]
Check-in & Checkout: 3 pm & 11 am
Pricing: $
Website
Book Now
Hotel Arts is a convenient accommodation. It’s located downtown, has free underground parking for guests (only if you book directly with the hotel), and is close to various local restaurants.
The chic style remains comfortable and actually feels luxurious. Enjoy plenty of amenities, such as the year-round pool, gym, laundry service, and bicycles you can borrow for a sightseeing adventure in Calgary, minus traffic!
Fairmont Palliser
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Address: 133 9 Ave SW
Contact: (403) 262-1234, [email protected]
Check-in & Checkout: 3 pm & 12 pm
Pricing: $$$
Website
Book Now
If you want to indulge, Fairmont Palliser is where sophistication and comfort meet. The rooms have an upscale vibe with luxurious amenities—they provide Le Labo bath products!
Stopping here from a road trip won’t be a hassle because there’s valet parking available, although it’s not complimentary. But once you check in, you’ll be treated to luxury!
How? You can enjoy the wellness spa, which is truly opulent, exactly the kind of place to relax and recharge after a long drive. It has a heated indoor pool, hot tub, steam room, and a fitness centre.
Le Germain Hotel
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Address: 899 Centre St S
Contact: (403) 264-8990, [email protected]
Check-in & Checkout: 3 pm & no set checkout time
Pricing: $$$
Website
Book Now
Refined sophistication is what you’ll experience at Le Germain Hotel, a downtown accommodation that brings you to the heart of the city. Right outside is the Calgary Tower, and Theatre Calgary is only five minutes away on foot.
The hotel has the complete package. You can take a break at the wellness spa, exercise at the gym, and sleep in a modern and spacious room.
Conveniently, there’s valet parking and EV charging stations. But expect a $50 per day fee.
