The Best 14 Day Western Canada Itinerary: Vancouver to Banff

Planning a trip across British Columbia and Alberta? This Western Canada itinerary is designed to help you make the most of 14 days in one of the most beautiful areas in Canada. If you’ve been wondering how to spend 2 weeks in Western Canada, this realistic route takes you from Vancouver to Banff with stops in Whistler, the Okanagan Valley, Lake Louise and the scenic Icefields Parkway.

This itinerary is ideal for outdoor lovers who want to fully experience the landscapes of the Canadian Rockies and the beauty of Canada’s outdoors. After visiting these places myself multiple times, I’ve put together a practical plan that covers everything you need to know from drive times to must-see spots, where to stay and other good to know information.

You can use this travel guide as a starting point to build your itinerary in Canada. If you have a few extra days, you can adjust this itinerary to best fit your interests and pace. I will also include some optional alternatives for you to choose from.

14 Day Western Canada Itinerary Overview

Things to Know Before a Trip to Canada

I wrote an article on everything you need to know when traveling to Canada for the first time, from required Visas, travel insurance, cell phone data, car rentals and more.

Travel Tips for a 14 Day Western Canada Road Trip

Camping reservations

Traveling to Canada in summer can sometimes be very stressful. Locals and tourists are all outside enjoying the outdoors, campsites are booked out, accommodation is expensive and you feel like you’re on a race to snag the last parking spot at a trailhead.

If it’s your style and you’re traveling on a budget, I highly recommend camping as much as you can during your 14 day Western Canada itinerary. Make sure you book well in advance and have the launch dates marked in your calendar. Most of the reservations open in January but some places have a different launch date, as early as December.

The main websites to reserve a campsite are Parks Canada and BC Parks, depending on which areas you’re visiting. In general terms, Parks Canada mainly covers the Canadian Rockies, whereas BC Parks is for British Columbia.

If you missed the reservation launch date and your desired campsite is sold out, you can still get a camping spot with some patience and luck. In fact, you can either register with Campnab that will notify you when a spot has become available or you can check back the main websites on a regular basis for any new openings.

National Park Passes

If you’re following this 14 Day Western Canada itinerary, you’ll at least visit 3 national parks: Banff, Jasper and Yoho. If you have more time or decide to skip some of the attractions on this list, you may also visit Mount Revelstoke, Glacier and Kootenay National Park.

In this case, I would recommend getting the Parks Canada Discovery Pass. It costs about CAD $75 per car in 2026 for a full year and gives you access to all national parks in Canada. But if you’re traveling between June 19 and September 7, 2026 the entrance to all national parks in Canada is free!

Wildlife and Bear Safety

Canada is home to a lot of wildlife, such as black and grizzly bears, cougars, moose, elks and more. Not only should you be aware of wildlife on the hiking trails but also in the mountain towns, such as Whistler or Banff.

So being aware of your surroundings is essential and knowing how to act on a bear encounter is very important. The first thing you should do when landing in Canada is buying a bear spray. You can find one at most of the outdoor stores in Canada (such as Canadian Tire and MEC). But don’t just carry it with you, also know how to use it in case of need.

If you’re camping in bear country, never leave food or anything that has some odour unattended. Store your food in bear cache or in your vehicle and never leave trash behind.

In Canada they say that a fed bear is a dead bear for a reason. If a bear gets used to human food, it naturally becomes a danger for the surrounding community. So most of the times, unfortunately, they have to ultimately kill it. Let’s do our part and try avoid it.

Where to Start From: Vancouver vs Calgary

You can start this 14 Day Western Canada itinerary from either Vancouver or Calgary. Usually though Vancouver is a better starting point if you’re flying from Europe or Asia as it offers better direct flights.

Another thing to consider is jet lag. I would recommend flying into Vancouver so that you can spend the first couple of days recovering from it. While you do so, you can explore Vancouver, which in my opinion offers more things to do compared to Calgary.

This being said, if your goal is to mainly see the Canadian Rockies, then starting your 14 day Western Canada road trip in Calgary might be a better decision.

Which Vehicle to Choose: Car vs Campervan

When doing a Western Canada road trip, one of the main decisions is choosing between a car or campervan (RV).

Renting a car in Canada is ideal if your idea of a trip is to see many attractions instead of stop-and-stay in one ares for long. Since it’s smaller in size, it’s easier to drive and has better fuel efficiency as well. Generally, renting a car is cheaper vs a camper van. But you’ll need to plan you accommodation every night.

On the other hand, if you prefer to have your transport and accommodation in one place, a campervan is a better idea. It can sometimes be cheaper as you’ll avoid high hotel prices and eating out. But it might be more complicated to find parking at popular attractions, such as Lake Louise or Whistler.

Personally, for a 14 Day Western Canada itinerary I would recommend renting a car and camping along the way. You can choose to sleep in the backcountry as well and really take in the beautiful Canadian outdoors.

Best Time For a Western Canada Road Trip

Summer is the best time for a road trip in Canada and to plan your Western Canada itinerary. Between July and September, all roads and trails are open and free of snow. You can also access areas at higher altitudes and enjoy long daylight hours.

Also, alpine lakes such as Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Peyto Lake and Garibaldi Lake are free of ice and vibrant. But peak tourist season in Canada also means lots of tourists and high accommodation prices.

Another great period to visit Western Canada is in late June and September. In late September especially you can witness the stunning autumn colours and golden larch trees.

14 Day Western Canada Itinerary

This 2 week Western Canada road trip itinerary follows a counterclockwise route. This way you drive first to the Canadian Rockies before making your way back to Vancouver through the Garibaldi Ranges.

Some factors that might influence your route are campground reservations. So, if it suits you best, you can change this West Coast itinerary to follow a clockwise route instead.

Visit Vancouver (Day 1-2)

If you’re starting your 2-week Canada itinerary in Vancouver, spend some time exploring the city before you road trip across Western Canada. Especially if it’s your first time in Vancouver, I recommend staying in the downtown area or nearby.

I would recommend spending 3 days in Vancouver, which you can split with two days at the start of the trip and one day before leaving Canada.

Best Things to Do in Vancouver

• Take a walking tour to learn more about Gastown, the oldest neighborhood in Vancouver, and the main landmarks.
• Walk or cycle the seawall, which stretches from Stanley Park to Science World.
• Take one of the False Creek Ferries to Granville Island, Kitsilano Beach or Yaletown.
• Head to the public market on Granville Island for delicious treats.
• Take a whale watching tour with Prince of Whales or Wild Whales Vancouver.
• Enjoy a sunset from English Bay, Sunset Beach or Kitsilano.
• Visit VanDusen Botanical Garden to be surrounded by flowers and green gardens.
• Go on a walk at Jericho Beach to spot bunnies or to Spanish Banks.
• Shop on Robson Street and visit Vancouver Art Gallery.

Day Trips from Vancouver

• Do the Grouse Grind on Grouse Mountain. This is a very popular steep hike (2.5 km with 800 m elevation gain) that is a must-do for anyone willing to stay active on their holiday. Otherwise, you can take the gondola up. Don’t miss the grizzly bears and lumberjack show at the top.
• Go kayaking in Deep Cove or hike to Quarry Rock for scenic views of the area.
• Experience Capilano suspension bridge (fee required) or head to Lynn suspension bridge (free).
• Go on a hike on the North Shore Mountain, such as on Cypress Mountain.

Local tips: more ideas for day trips from Vancouver!

Where to Stay in Vancouver

Accommodation in Vancouver can be very expensive, so the perfect stay depends largely on your budget. But the main areas I would recommend to stay in Vancouver are in Downtown, Coal Harbor, West End or Yaletown.

On the other hand, if you’d like more budget friendly options that offer good connections to the Downtown area, look into the neighborhoods of Kitsilano, Mount Pleasant and North Vancouver.

Where to Eat Out in Vancouver

Vancouver has so many great restaurant, brunch spots and dining options, that two days or three days in Vancouver will only be enough to scratch the surface. Below are my favorite spots but make sure you don’t skip Japanese cuisine. Outside of Japan, Vancouver has some of the best sushi and Japanese food.

• Danbo Ramen
• Guu Original Thurlow
• Tom Sushi
• Kissa Tanto
• Zarak by Afghan Kitchen
• Per Se Social

Check out more places to eat out in Vancouver in my 3 day itinerary in Vancouver!

Drive from Vancouver to Kelowna (Day 3)

Distance: 390 km
Driving Time: 4 hours

The drive from Vancouver to Kelowna is very popular for wine lovers. In fact, Kelowna is home to some of the best wineries in British Columbia and Canada. You can decide whether to drive directly to Kelowna and explore the town or stop along the way to enjoy more sights.

Best Stops Between Vancouver and Kelowna

• Check out some of the hiking trails in Chilliwack. This area is in my opinion very underrated and has some of the best hikes near Vancouver.
• Stop for a coffee at Cedar and Moss Coffee, conveniently located along HWY 1.
• One of my favorite stops on the drive to Kelowna is the short hike to Bridal Veil Falls.
• Head to Othello Tunnels near Hope and walk through these former railway tunnels.
• Stop in Merritt for lunch and take a short break.
• Enjoy the views of Okanagan Lake while you enter Kelowna.

Best Things to Do in Kelowna

• Go for a swim in the Okanagan Lake or try flyboarding as well as parasailing.
• Hike to Knox Mountain Park for beautiful views of Kelowna.
• Check out one of the many wineries and treat yourself to a multi course menu.
• Take a day trip to Penticton and go tubing on the lazy river between Okanagan Lake and Skaha Lake.
• Pick up fresh fruit from a farmer’s market in the Okanagan Valley.

Where to Stay in Kelowna and Okanagan Valley

• Kelowna is the heart of Okanagan Valley and offers a wide variety of accommodation options.
• You can choose among upper-end stays such as at the Delta Hotel or opt for an AirBnB. I did both on two separate trips and would recommend either of the above.
• If you prefer camping, look into Bear Creek Provincial Park near Kelowna or Ellison Provincial Park near Vernon.

Drive from Kelowna to Yoho National Park (Day 4)

Distance: 402 km
Driving Time: 5 hours

While you’re on the road from Kelowna to Yoho National Park, you’ll drive through Vernon, Revelstoke and Golden. These are all small towns worth a short or longer stop, based on how much time you have available.

One thing to keep in mind is that once you reach Yoho National Park, the time will change and you’ll lose 1 hour of daylight.

Best Stops Between Kelowna and Yoho National Park

• Stop in Vernon for a short break on your way out of Kelowna.
• Enjoy the mountain views while you drive through Rogers Pass in Glacier National Park.
• If you have the time, plan some extra days to visit Glacier National Park and Mount Revelstoke National Park near Revelstoke.
• Drive through Golden before entering Yoho National Park. The first stop will be Wapta Falls, just on the edge of the national park.

Where to Stay in Yoho National Park

• Campgrounds are the best way to explore Yoho National Park. My favorite is Kicking Horse Campground, perfectly located at the center of the national park. You can reserve your site on Parks Canada website.
• Monarch campground is adjacent to Kicking Horse campground but sites are given on a first-come, first-served basis. So no reservations are required.
• Another great campsite is at Takakkaw Falls, which is accessible at the end of the Yoho Valley Road.
• If you prefer spending the night in the backcountry, there are several backcountry campgrounds to choose from.
• Check out some of the lodges, such as Emerald Lodges or Lake O’Hara Lodges for a more elevated stay.

Spend 1 Day in Yoho National Park (Day 5)

Yoho National Park gets often skipped on a Canadian Rockies road trip, but I’m here to tell you why you shouldn’t. Although it’s not exactly a hidden gem, Yoho received less tourists compared to the famous Banff National Park. So you get to explore this national park with less crowds.

Best Things to Do in Yoho National Park

• Stop at Wapta Falls and stretch your legs with this 3 km round trip hike.
• Visit Emerald Lake early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds. This is one of the more popular attractions in Yoho.
• Take Yoho Valley Road to Takakkaw Falls, which is the second-tallest waterfall in British Columbia.
• Hike to Lake O’Hara to some of the most scenic views in the area. If you were not able to secure a shuttle bus ticket through the lottery system, you can still get to the lake by adding 22 km (return) of hiking to your day.

Head to Banff Town and Hike Johnston Canyon (Day 6)

If you’re on a 2 week Western Canada road trip, then you cannot skip Banff town. Although many travel to Banff National Park to visit Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, I would recommend starting with the core of the national park: Banff town itself.

In the afternoon then head for an easy walk along Johnston Canyon to either the Lower or Upper Waterfalls.

Things to Do in Banff (Downtown and Surroundings)

• Take a picture with the Banff Sign.
• Stroll along Banff Avenue and check out one of the restaurants for lunch or coffeeshops.
• Walk to Cascade Gardens which sits the first administration building of Parks Canada.
• Head to Cave and Basin National Historic Site and learn about Banff’s origins.
• Hike through Johnston Canyon but aim to visit early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds.
• Take the Banff gondola to Sulphur Mountain or hike to the summit.
• Check out Bow Falls, which is just a 20 min walk from Downtown Banff.

Where to Stay in Banff

Banff is one of the oldest towns in Canada but also one of the most crowded during the busy summer season. As you might imagine, accommodation prices are a direct reflection of its popularity. So book as early as possible.

I personally didn’t stay in Banff town as we preferred the nearby campgrounds. But if you want to stay in downtown, there are plenty hotels along Banff Avenue within few minutes walking distance from the main cafes and restaurants.

If you’re looking for a slightly more affordable stay in Banff, I would look a bit further out in the town of Canmore.

On the other hand, if you prefer staying at a campground, whether it’s in a tent or RV, you’ll still need to book as soon as reservations open up. That’s usually around January each year.

We stayed at Protection Mountain but there are plenty campsites in the area that can be booked through Parks Canada website.

Spend 1 Day at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise (Day 7)

If there is a place that is on everyone’s Canada bucket list that’s Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. Both lakes are located close to each other and you could even hike from one lake to the other over Sentinel Pass (full day hike for experts only). But because of the increased popularity, there are currently some restrictions in place.

While you can drive to Lake Louise in your own vehicle, the road to Moraine Lake remains closed. So if you want to visit Moraine Lake, the only way to do so is via shuttle bus. If you decide to drive to Lake Louise, keep in mind that the parking lot fills up quickly in summer. To avoid the hassle, I recommend driving to Lake Louise Ski Resort Park & Ride and catch a shuttle bus from there.

How to Get to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise

• Use Parks Canada Shuttle bus, which needs to be reserved in advance but it also the cheapest way to get to Moraine Lake. This option also offers the alpine start to catch the sunrise at Moraine Lake.
• Book with a privately operated shuttle bus, such as Moraine Lake Bus Company or Fairview Limo. This option is ideal for anyone that was not able to secure a Parks Canada shuttle bus.
• If you’re staying in Banff, book with Roam Transit the Roam Super Pass, to access both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. In this case though, sunrise options are not available.

Best Things to Do at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

• The Canadian Rockies offer some of the best hiking trails in Canada. Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are nothing short of breathtaking.
• From Lake Louise hike to the Big Beehive or Little Beehive for some of the best views of Lake Louise. If you want a shorter hike option head to Lake Agnes and stop at the teahouse just by the lakeshore.
• Take a canoe on Lake Louise or Moraine Lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Drive along the Icefields Parkway: Banff to Jasper (Day 8)

Distance: 288 km
Driving Time: 3 hours (without stops)

The Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic road trips in Canada. It is actually a highway between Banff and Jasper with some of the best stops in the Canadian Rockies.

The drive from Banff to Jasper takes about 3 hours but rushing through is not really worth it. There are so many stops and viewpoints along the way, that I’d recommend starting early to have as much time as possible in your day.

Best Scenic Stops along the Icefields Parkway between Banff and Jasper

• The first stop from Banff to Jasper is Bow Lake, a beautiful alpine lake that can be seen directly from the main road.
• Peyto Lake, the wolf shaped alpine lake, is probably the third most famous lake in the Canadian Rockies after Moraine Lake and Lake Louise.
• You’ll then drive past Waterfowl Lakes and Mistaya Canyon, which are both worth a stop.
• If you need to get fuel, the only place to do that between Banff and Jasper is at Saskatchewan River Crossing.
• Stretch your legs with a hike to Parker Ridge and admire the Saskatchewan Glacier.
• Stop at Sunwapta Falls for a brief walk to the waterfall.
• Drive to Goats & Glaciers Lookout for incredible views of the Canadian Rockies and the local residents mountain goats.
• Stop at Athabasca Falls before arriving to Jasper.

For a complete list of the best things to see between Banff and Jasper check out the best stops along the Icefields Parkway!

Where to Stay in Jasper

The July 2024 wildfire in Jasper National Park has destroyed most of the town’s structures, campground and nearby trails. Although reconstruction are ongoing, keep this in mind during your visit to Jasper.

Luckily most of the accommodation in Jasper remained unaffected. But, as before the wildfire, remains in high demand. My favorite stay in Jasper is actually a campground. During my Canadian Rockies road trip, I stayed at Whistlers Campground. In fact, it’s perfectly located and even received daily visits by the local elks.

Another great campsite is Wapiti Campground, which is smaller but also closer to Jasper town.

Explore Jasper and Visit Spirit Island on Maligne Lake (Day 9)

Distance: 50 km (one way)
Driving Time: 1 hour

If you only have one day in Jasper National Park, I strongly recommend to visit Maligne Lake. It’s one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in Canada with breathtaking landscapes.

You can either take a boat tour on Maligne Lake to reach the famous Spirit Island or if you have more time you can kayak to Spirit Island.

From Jasper you drive along Maligne Lake Road past Medicine Lake to Maligne Lake. Along the way you may spot some wildlife, such as moose, elks and bears. Just please do not approach wildlife and give them enough space.

How to Get to Spirit Island on Maligne Lake

• By boat from Maligne Lake, which can be reserved in advance or on the same day. If you decide to pre-book you end up getting a small discount compared to buying the ticket on the same day.
• Kayaking or canoeing to Spirit Island is a longer 8-10 hours return option. Personally I would recommend doing it as a 2 day trip and only if you have prior kayaking experience.

Drive From Jasper to Kamloops (Day 10)

Distance: 416 km
Driving Time: 4-5 hours

The drive from Jasper to Kamloops is very scenic and well paved. There are plenty of activities you can do along the road but below I highlighted the best spots to see and activities to do between Jasper and Kamloops.

The Best Stops Between Jasper and Kamloops

• One of the most spectacular views in British Columbia is Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies (3,954 m). If you have some extra days on your Western Canada road trip, I highly recommend spending 3 days hiking to Berg Lake.
• Don’t miss Helmcken Falls in Wells Gray Provincial Park, which is easily accessible from the main road.
• Stop for a coffee in Clearwater before continuing the drive south.

Where to Stay near Kamloops

Kamloops has a variety of accommodation options. You can chose between budget friendly stays such as Super 8 or more upscale lodgings in the downtown area, such as Delta Hotel.

If you’re looking into campground options near Kamloops, then Paul Lake Provincial Park (25 km from Kamloops) is a great alternative.

Kamloops to Pemberton (Day 11)

Distance: 270 km
Driving Time: 3-4 hours

Take in the scenic views on this drive between Kamloops and Pemberton. You’ll notice how the landscape starts changing the closer you drive to Pemberton. From a drier landscape you’ll drive into a lush and mountainous postcard.

What to See Between Kamloops and Pemberton

• Stop at Lillooet and take a short hike (1.3 km and 70 m elevation gain) to Seton Lake Lookout, which U-shaped road reminds of the Lululemon sign.
• Take in the views of Duffey Lake and stop at the Viewpoint.
• Take a hike to the famous Joffre Lakes (5 km to the upper lake) to witness turquoise alpine waters surrounded by glaciers. It’s a very popular lake and a day pass is required if you do a day hike. You can also book a backcountry permit to camp by the lake. But these permits sell out fast.
• Spend the night in the backcountry at Semaphore Lakes and hike to Locomotive Mountain. The hike to the first lakes is relatively easy and the views are incredible.
• Take a horseback riding tour in Pemberton for a different perspective of the area.

Where to Stay in Pemberton

Pemberton is a small town compared to Whistler but it still has a variety of options. You can choose between rustic lodges, hotels or campsites.

If you’re looking to camp on your Western Canada road trip, some options are at Nairn Falls or in the backcountry at Joffre Lakes (reservation required) or Semaphore Lakes (no reservation required).

Pemberton to Whistler (Day 12)

Distance: 33 km
Driving Time: 30 min

Many people rush through this stretch and head straight to Whistler. But in my opinion this area has some of the best hiking trails in BC that you should not miss. In fact, this 14 day Western Canada itinerary is best suited for active travelers in love with hiking and mountains. If that’s you, then I recommend not rushing through this stretch. Otherwise, feel free to skip hiking and spend an extra day in Whistler.

Best Stops Between Pemberton and Whistler

• Enjoy a coffee in Pemberton, a small town in BC surrounded by mountains, and stop at Blackbird Bakery.
• Stop at Nairn Falls and walk for 3 km to the viewpoint.
• Take a hike in Garibaldi Provincial Park to Wedgemount Lake and consider spending a night camping in the backcountry. A reservation is required and I recommend hiking only if physically fit and not hiking for the first time.

Where to Stay in Whistler

Whistler has a large variety of accommodation options. You can choose to stay at Whistler Village or Whistler Creekside (slightly cheaper).

Alternatively, you can book a campsite at some nearby provincial park campgrounds, such as Nairn Falls (25 min drive from Whistler) or Alice Lake (40 min drive from Whistler). But campgrounds are booked out most of the summer. So if you prefer this option, make sure you reserve in advance.

Some great hotels in Whistler I stayed at are Pan Pacific Whistler Village, Aava, Four Seasons Resort Whistler and Fairmont Chateau Whistler.

Whistler (Day 13)

Whistler in winter is the dream for ski lovers. In fact, Whistler is one of the largest ski resorts in North America. But in summer Whistler it the perfect destination for any sort of outdoor activity, especially hiking and mountain biking.

How to Spend One Day in Whistler

• Visit Whistler Village and stroll along the main street to check local shops and take a photo with the Olympic Rings.
• Take the gondola to the peak of Whistler Mountain and enjoy the breathtaking views from Top of the World Summit. If you’re into hiking, you can also explore this area by doing a backpacking trip to Russet Lake.
• Take the Peak 2 Peak gondola between Whistler Mountain and Blackcomb Mountain and explore some more alpine trails.
• Relax at the Scandinave Spa and enjoy some downtime in the evening.
• If you like adrenaline, check out the longest zipline in North America.
• Explore one of the nearby lakes, such as Green Lake, Alta Lake or Lost Lake.

Whistler to Vancouver (Day 14)

Distance: 121 km
Driving Time: 2 hours

Whistler is one of the most popular day trips from Vancouver and a favorite destination both in summer and winter. The drive from Whistler to Vancouver, or vice versa, is also knows as the Sea to Sky Highway and is one of the most scenic drives in Canada.

In fact, you’ll drive past snow-peaked mountains, waterfalls, small towns, steep cliffs and some of the best views over Howe Sound.

Best Stops along the Sea to Sky Highway between Whistler and Vancouver

• Check out the Train Wreck, an easy hike through shaded forest to abandoned train cars that local artists covered in graffiti.
• Stop at Brandywine Falls, an easy walk from the parking lot.
• Go on a hike or backpacking trip to Garibaldi Lake, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in BC.
• Stop in Squamish or head to Fergie’s Cafe for a delicious meal.
• Take the Sea to Sky gondola or hike to Stawamus Chief, a dream spot for rock climbers.
• Head to Shannon Falls, the third tallest waterfall in British Columbia.
• Stop at Britannia Mine Museum, which used to be a mining site.
• Hike to Tunnel Bluffs in Lions Bay for incredible views of Howe Sound.
• Stop at the Lookout on Cypress Mountain or drive to the top and take a scenic hike.

Are you looking for more inspiration? Check out the best Sea to Sky Highway Stops!

Alternative 2 Week Western Canada Road Trip

Starting in Calgary

This 14 day Western Canada itinerary starts and finishes in Vancouver. But, alternatively, you could also start it in Calgary. In this case you’ll need to rearrange a bit the road trip.

Also if you want to spend two extra days along the way instead of driving through the Interior BC (Vancouver – Kelowna – Yoho), you could fly out of Vancouver.

2 Week Itinerary with Vancouver Island

You might not be a huge fan of driving long distances. In that case, you could skip the Vancouver-Canadian Rockies road trip loop and add a stop on Vancouver Island.

After spending 2 days in Vancouver, you can take a ferry to Vancouver Island and drive from Nanaimo to Tofino. To make the drive worthwhile, spend 3 days in Tofino, before heading to Whistler.

You can keep Whistler Village as your base for the next 3 days while you do a hike in Garibaldi Provincial Park and explore some of the nearby attractions. Then you’d make your way back to Vancouver and fly out to Calgary.

This itinerary would save you some time but it would also skip sections of the road trip that in my opinion are worth seeing on a first time road trip through Canada.

Are You Planning a 3 Week Road Trip in Western Canada?

If you’re planning to spend three weeks in Western Canada, you’ll have more time to spend at each location. You could add some extra hikes to your itinerary, relax by one of the alpine lakes or unwind at one of the wineries.

If you prefer a faster paced itinerary, you can even add parts of Vancouver Island to your road trip. But I personally believe that this is better on a 4 week itinerary in Western Canada.

Final Thoughts

If you’re trying to pack in as many attractions as possible, this is the best itinerary for Western Canada in 14 days. But if you prefer to dive into a specific area and have only 2 weeks, I would recommend concentrating either around the Canadian Rockies or the coastal areas of Vancouver and Vancouver Island.

There are so many beautiful areas to visit in Canada that one trip might not be enough. So make sure you enjoy your time and take in the beautiful scenery.