Self-Drive Canadian Rockies Lakes and Lodges

3169 nights from €11 per person Including Flights

Overview

This 13-day self-drive tour takes you from Vancouver to Calgary, showcasing the stunning beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Explore vibrant Vancouver, then journey through Whistler, Tyax Resort, and Sun Peaks before reaching Jasper and Moraine Lake for glacier adventures. Discover the awe-inspiring landscapes of Yoho National Park and Emerald Lake, followed by a visit to Banff with scenic excursions like the Banff Gondola and Lake Minnewanka Cruise. The tour ends in Calgary, offering a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. (TM/DH)

Highlights

  • Scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway with glacier exploration and Glacier Skywalk. 
  • Maligne Lake cruise and Jasper's stunning natural beauty. 
  • Stay on the stunning Moraine Lake, known as the "Jewel of the Rockies." 
  • Enjoy excursions in Banff, including a gondola ride for panoramic views or a Lake Minnewanka cruise.

Itinerary Overview

12 night tour begins Vancouver and ends Calgary: Fly into Vancouver 2 nights - Tayax Resort, Gold Bridge 2 nights - Sun Peaks 1 night - Jasper 2 nights - Moraine Lake 1 night - Emerald Lake 2 nights - Banff 2 nights - Fly home from Calgary

Daily departures available June - September

Whats included?
  • Flights & taxes
  • Accommodation
  • Checked baggage
  • CAR licensed & bonded
  • In resort assistance & 24 hour contact centre
Why Book with Canadian Sky?
  • Hassle-free - book direct quickly and easily
  • Choice of airlines and the option to switch
  • A friendly, family run business with a wealth of experience.
  • Great deals on offer for multiple destinations
  • Low deposits
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Day 1 and Day 2

Vancouver

Arrive in Vancouver and enjoy a two-night stay in this vibrant city. Explore the city’s top attractions such as Stanley Park, Granville Island, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Stroll along the Seawall for breathtaking waterfront views or visit the diverse neighbourhoods like Chinatown and Gastown for unique shopping and dining experiences. Vancouver offers a perfect mix of urban excitement and natural beauty.

Overnight in Vancouver

Day 3

Vancouver to Tayax Resort, Gold Bridge (145 miles)

This morning pick up your car from downtown and depart Vancouver and travel along the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to Whistler. Along the way, enjoy highlights such as the cascading Shannon Falls and the towering Stawamus Chief Rock. Upon arrival in Whistler, take a short stroll through this picturesque alpine resort before continuing along the Duffey Lake Road, where you'll be treated to stunning views of Joffre Glacier. After passing through Lillooet, continue for two hours on a well-maintained gravel road to Tyax Lodge, located on the tranquil shores of Tyaughton Lake. Stay here for the next two nights.

Overnight: Tayax Resort

Day 4

Tayax Resort, Gold Bridge

Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, the lodge has it all. Enjoy world-class mountain biking, horseback riding, paddling, fishing, or hiking, or simply unwind with your favourite drink on the dock, soaking in the views of Tyaughton Lake.

Overnight: Tayax Resort

Day 5

Gold Bridge to Sun Peaks (276 miles)

Head back through Lillooet, historically known for its Gold Rush Trail and the starting point of the Old Caribou Wagon Road. Today, it’s also a hub for Canada’s top Ginseng farms. In Cache Creek, take a step back in time at the historic Hat Creek and experience the Gold Rush era. Finish your day in Sun Peaks, where you can unwind and enjoy a relaxing evening.

Overnight: Sun Peaks Grand Hotel or similar

Day 6

Sun Peaks to Jasper (276 miles)

Today, journey along the Thompson River, crossing rolling plateaus towards the snow-capped Monashee Mountains. Marvel at Pyramid Falls and the vast glaciers of the Albreda Icefields. Continue past Mount Robson, standing at 3954 metres, the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Arrive in Jasper and overnight here for two nights.

Overnight: Jasper Inn and Suites or similar

Day 7

Jasper

During your stay in Jasper, personalise your experience by choosing one of the following excursions included in your tour. Click on Optional Excursions for further information on each tour

Option 1: Maligne Lake Cruise
Option 2: Jasper River Float
Option 3: Jasper Nature Walk

Overnight: Jasper Inn and Suites or similar

Day 8

Jasper to Moraine Lake (148 miles)

Today travel to the ultimate glacier adventure along the Icefields Parkway. Experience walking on ancient ice with the Ice Explorer ride and stand on the Glacier Skywalk, nearly 1,000 feet above the ground (included). These experiences offer a deep appreciation for this pristine region of the Rockies. The lodge is located on the shore of Moraine Lake, renowned for its striking turquoise waters and often referred to as the "Jewel of the Rockies."

Overnight: Moraine Lake Lodge or similar. Breakfast included

Day 9 – Day 10

Moraine Lake to Emerald Lake (23 miles)

Take a short drive through stunning mountain passes into Yoho National Park, named after the Cree word meaning "awe." This 1,313 sq. km park is filled with vibrant glacial lakes, waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and lush forests. Explore historic railroads, spiral tunnels carved into mountainsides, and steep rock faces where mountain goats roam, all contributing to the park’s breathtaking beauty. Explore the stunning Emerald Lake, renowned for its picturesque turquoise waters surrounded by majestic mountains and lush forests. This serene spot offers the perfect setting for leisurely walks, canoeing, or simply soaking in the breathtaking scenery. Overnight for two nights.

Overnight: Emerald Lake Lodge or similar

Day 11

Emerald Lake to Banff (60 miles)

Today, we recommend taking the scenic Bow Valley Parkway, which runs alongside the Trans-Canada Highway. Be sure to stop at Johnston Canyon, where you can walk along the paved path to view the Lower or Upper Waterfalls. Arrive in the picturesque town of Banff, a quaint alpine village nestled in the heart of Banff National Park. As you explore the town’s vibrant streets, you’ll find cozy cafés, local shops, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.

Overnight: Elk + Avenue Hotel or similar

Day 12

Banff

During your stay in Banff, personalise your experience by choosing one of the following excursions included in your tour. Click on Optional Excursions for further information on each tour

Option 1: Banff Gondola
Option 2: Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Option 3: River Explorer Canoe Tour
Option 4: Bow River Horseback Adventure

Overnight: Elk + Avenue Hotel or similar

Day 13

Banff to Calgary (72 miles)

Today, say farewell to the crisp mountain air and breathtaking Rocky landscapes. Drive to Calgary, return your rental car at the airport.

  • International return flights
  • Economy car rental with fully inclusive insurance (upgrades available at supplement) from Day 3
  • 2 nights in Vancouver, pre tour
  • 10 nights accommodation as described or similar
  • Day 7 - Jasper - a choice of 1 excursion from: Maligne Lake Cruise, Jasper River Float, Jasper Nature Walk
  • Ice Explorer ride onto Athabasca Glacier and Glacier Skywalk
  • Day 12 - Banff - a choice of 1 excursion from: Banff Gondola, Lake Minnewanka Cruise, River Explorer Canoe Tour, Bow River Horseback Adventure
  • Electronic Roadbook

What’s not included

  • Airport transfers
  • Resort fees
  • Fuel & road tolls, car parking charges
  • Meals unless stated, entrance fees and additional excursions
  • One way car hire drop fee

Your tour includes a selection of optional excursions, allowing you to choose one from each location.

Day 7 – Jasper

Option 1: Maligne Lake Cruise
Embark on a scenic cruise of Maligne Lake, taking in the breathtaking shoreline and the iconic Spirit Island.

Option 2: Jasper River Float
Take a relaxing rafting tour along the Athabasca River, offering a peaceful and unique view of the stunning Jasper National Park.

Option 3: Jasper Nature Walk
Join a guided nature walk through diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, jagged peaks, lush forests, meadows, marshes, streams, and breathtaking glacial lakes.

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Day 12 – Banff

Option 1: Banff Gondola
Take a scenic gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain for stunning panoramic views of Banff National Park and enjoy breathtaking vistas of peaks and valleys.

Option 2: Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Cruise across the turquoise waters of Lake Minnewanka to Devil’s Gap, taking in stunning views of the Canadian Rockies along the way.

Option 3: River Explorer Canoe Tour
Explore the tranquil Bow River with a guided, interactive experience. Ideal for families, this easy adventure requires no paddling experience and offers a fun way to take in the beauty of Banff National Park.

Option 4: Bow River Horseback Adventure
Embark on a guided horseback ride through the stunning landscapes of Banff National Park, soaking in its beauty from a unique vantage point.

Rachel McAnaspie
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