Highlights of Western Canada

Tick off the highlights of British Columbia and Alberta on this first-timers itinerary to Canada. Visit the beautiful city of Vancouver, chase waterfalls in Whistler and keep your eyes peeled for bears before heading to the spectacular Rocky Mountains.

1. Days 1-3: Vancouver

   Begin your Western Canada adventure in the gateway to the great outdoors; Vancouver. On the very edge of Canadian wilderness, the city of Vancouver is one of our favorites, offering exceptional adventure activities from exploring the harbor by zodiac, hiking on Grouse Mountain, to cycling around Stanley Park. We’ve included a guided cycling tour of the park, a great way to get your bearings and some local insight into the city. By night, the city comes alive with fantastic restaurants and lively bars.

   Accommodation: L'Hermitage Vancouver (2 nights)

2. Days 3-6: Whistler (Summer)

   After three nights in Vancouver, pick up your hire car and hit the Sea-to-Sky Highway en route to the alpine village of Whistler. Half way through your journey, head off the highway to visit the spectacular Brandywine Falls, one of the tallest accessible waterfalls in BC. Continue your journey on to Whistler and upon check-in, you'll be shown to your room so you can settle in. Not long after, you will be picked up by an expert guide and taken on an evening bear viewing tour. Hop in a jeep and head up the mountain to spot wandering black bears, fresh out of hibernation and looking for berries.

   The following morning rise early to spend a full day exploring the wonders of Whistler. In the morning, head up the Peak-2-Peak gondola which lets you explore both Blackcomb and Whistler Mountain. Enjoy and admire the beautiful sweeping views of Whistler in the summer before heading back down to the village for lunch. In the afternoon, we’ve also included zip-lining to cross creeks and soar above forest canopies, a truly thrilling experience. 

   Accommodation: Summit Lodge (3 nights)

3. Days 6-8: British Columbia

   The next day, drive east, where you will find the secluded Alpine Meadows Resort. Here, you will have two nights to relax and unwind, or explore nearby Wells Grey Provincial Park. Slightly off-the-beaten-track, this park is famed for waterfalls and remote hiking trails. Stay closer to Alpine Meadows, and enjoy canoeing on Hallamore Lake or glacial wild swimming.

   Accommodation: Alpine Meadows Resort (2 nights)

4. Days 8-10: Jasper

   After two nights make your way to wildlife-rich Jasper National Park; a haven for wildlife lovers. You'll have two nights here to enjoy the park and go white water rafting in the Athabasca River, hiking to Pyramid Lake or admiring Athabasca Falls, another beautiful waterfall. We’d recommend a visit Maligne Lake, known for its turquoise blue waters, where you can hop on a cruise boat and visit the iconic Spirit Island.

   Accommodation: The Crimson Jasper (2 nights)

5. Days 10-13: British Columbia

   Your final stop will be Cathedral Mountain Lodge, in the heart of Yoho National Park. After settling into your luxury cabin in this intimate mountain lodge, you’ll be able to access endless hiking trails and visit Takakkaw Falls direct from the property. We’d recommend a short drive to visit stunning Lake Louise, as well as the jewel of the area, Moraine Lake, best explored by colorful canoe.

   On your last day, drive down to Calgary for your flight home. Depending on how you chose to spend your time, you might have the opportunity to visit the Olympic Park or the Calgary Tower.

   Accommodation: Cathedral Mountain Lodge (3 nights)

Vancouver, Whistler, Clearwater, Jasper National Park, Yoho National Park