Calgary is a city that perfectly blends urban charm with the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Positioned on the edge of this majestic mountain range, Calgary serves as an excellent base for road trips that offer both incredible mountain landscapes and exciting city experiences. A road trip from Calgary to the Rockies is the ideal way to experience the true essence of this region. From serene lakes and towering mountains to vibrant downtown streets, this guide will take you through the ultimate Calgary road trip route.
Whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, scenic drives, or urban culture, this road trip will give you a taste of everything Calgary and its surrounding areas offer. If you're ready to start your adventure, read on for some of the best stops and things to do on your road trip, as well as practical tips on making the most of your time in Calgary.
With a road trip in Calgary, you can explore at your own pace. Unlike guided tours, you do not have to follow set schedules or fixed itineraries. With a rental car, you can make spontaneous stops whenever something interests you, from stopping for a scenic photo op to spending extra time in a charming town, giving you the ultimate freedom to create your journey.
Calgary is just an hour’s drive from the Rockies, making it the perfect gateway to explore Banff, Jasper, and other breathtaking natural destinations. Having your car makes it incredibly easy to access some of Canada's most famous and awe-inspiring national parks. And for those looking to explore more secluded areas, a rental car allows you to visit less crowded locations in the region.
This road trip offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventures and urban experiences. After exploring the stunning mountain views, lakes, and forests, you can return to Calgary to experience the city’s lively culture, shopping, dining, and nightlife. This mix of nature and city guarantees something for everyone, from adventure seekers and history enthusiasts to those who enjoy excellent food and entertainment.
If you're planning a road trip in Calgary and the surrounding areas, renting a car is an excellent choice for ensuring flexibility, convenience, and comfort. By renting a car, you can explore at your own pace and discover hidden gems that may not be easily accessible by public transportation.
For an easy and affordable way to rent a car in Canada, consider using Finalrentals. They offer a range of vehicles to suit different preferences and budgets, with the added convenience of booking online.
With its rich offerings in history, art, and outdoor activities, Calgary is a vibrant city that has something for everyone. Begin your adventure by exploring some of its key attractions before heading into the Rockies.
Calgary Tower offers panoramic views of the city and the distant mountains. It’s the perfect spot to get a sense of the landscape before you head out of the city. Stephen Avenue is another must-see. This pedestrian street is lined with cafes, shops, and restaurants, making it a great place to stroll and grab a bite to eat.
If you're interested in local culture, visit the Glenbow Museum. This museum offers diverse exhibits on Canadian history, art, and culture. For nature lovers, the Calgary Zoo is an ideal family-friendly stop featuring more than 1,000 animals.
Just a 45-minute drive from Calgary, Kananaskis is an incredible destination that offers a more peaceful, a more secluded experience compared to the busy towns in the Rockies. This vast wilderness area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Countless hiking trails let you experience the region's natural beauty, from easy walks to more challenging mountain routes.
One of the highlights of Kananaskis is the Upper and Lower Kananaskis Lakes. Surrounded by rugged peaks, these lakes offer a perfect spot for a walk or a picnic by the water. The quiet, tranquil atmosphere makes Kananaskis an ideal place to take a break from the crowds and immerse yourself in nature.
Continuing your journey towards the Rockies, you’ll enter Banff National Park, one of Canada’s most iconic national parks. The drive from Calgary to Banff is incredibly scenic, and you'll find yourself surrounded by towering mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and stunning alpine scenery.
Lake Louise, located in the heart of Banff National Park, is world-renowned for its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop. You can walk along the lake or hike to Lake Agnes for a more adventurous experience. Banff also has a charming town centre with boutique shops, cafés, and galleries. For breathtaking panoramic views, take a ride on the Banff Gondola. It takes you up to Sulphur Mountain, where you can enjoy views of the surrounding peaks and the Bow Valley below.
The Icefields Parkway, which connects Banff and Jasper National Park, is one of the most scenic drives in the world. This 230-kilometre stretch of highway takes you through stunning landscapes, past glaciers, waterfalls, and some of the most beautiful lakes in Canada.
The Columbia Icefield is a must-see along the Icefields Parkway. Here, you can join a guided tour of the Athabasca Glacier to learn about its formation and importance in the local ecosystem. Be sure to stop at Peyto Lake, with its unique wolf-head shape, and Bow Lake, known for its stunning reflections of the surrounding peaks.
After your mountainous adventure, head back to Calgary for a change of pace. Calgary’s blend of modern urban life and proximity to nature makes it the perfect ending to your road trip. Spend your afternoon at Heritage Park Historical Village, which brings Calgary’s history to life with exhibits about the city’s early days, including a steam train and historical buildings.
If you’re a sports fan, check out the Scotiabank Saddledome. The arena also hosts concerts and events throughout the year. For a more relaxed experience, walk along the Bow River Pathway, a scenic trail that weaves through Calgary’s downtown area.
Once you return to Calgary, there’s much more to do to keep you busy. Here are some top things to do in the city:
When preparing for a road trip from Calgary to the Rockies, ensure you’re packed for city and mountain conditions. Here’s a quick list:
A road trip from Calgary to the Rockies is a truly unforgettable experience. From the bustling city of Calgary to the stunning beauty of the Canadian Rockies, this trip offers something for every traveller. Renting a car in Canada lets you explore Calgary's natural wonders and cultural highlights without restrictions. So pack your bags, rent a car, and prepare for an adventure that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
