I spent hours upon hours planning a Banff and Jasper itinerary for my own trip. It took a ton of time because there are so many things to see and do in Canada’s most famous national parks.
The parks are located in Alberta about 3 ½ hours from each other, so it makes sense to tackle both during the same trip. But together they encompass over 6,600 square miles of parkland. Each has hundreds of hikes and even more viewpoints, so how is one supposed to narrow down the best of the best attractions?
Well I waded through the chaos to come up with the perfect 6- or 5-day itinerary. Rather than have you repeat what I went through, I’m sharing the exact route I took that includes both must-see stops and hidden gems most tourists overlook. As always, I’ll give an honest take on the big-name spots and whether or not they’re worth it.
So get ready to dive in and experience the most memorable itinerary for Banff and Jasper National Parks!
This post has affiliate links, which means I’ll earn a small commission at no cost to you if you click on them and make a purchase. This is a small way I earn money to support this site. If links aren’t showing up for you, turn off your ad blocking software. Thank you for your support!
Banff and Jasper Itinerary
I made this itinerary for 6 days since I believe that’s the perfect amount of time to check out a nice mix of the highlights and hidden gems on your first trip to Banff and Jasper. However, you can trim it to a 5-day itinerary if you want to skip Kananaskis Provincial Park on day one.
This itinerary also assumes you’ll come in from Calgary since it’s the largest major airport. However, you can also fly into Edmonton to the east of Jasper and do this itinerary in reverse.
Overwhelmed by your trip? I’m a licensed travel planner and am happy to customize your itinerary. Get in touch if you want to delegate the stress of trip planning to me!
Save this itinerary to Pinterest for later if you want to trip plan on your own. Now let’s dive in!
Day 1: Kananaskis Provincial Park
This itinerary assumes you’ll take an early flight from Calgary and stay in either Banff or Canmore for days 1-3.
Drive from Calgary to to Kananaskis Provincial Park
get directions | how long: ~1 hr
Calgary is the largest international airport in Alberta and offers the most direct flights from the Pacific Northwest. If you’re able to land in Calgary early enough, you can take a detour to Kananaskis Provincial Park before arriving at your accommodations in Canmore.
Pronounced “can-an-ass-kiss”, this park is a hidden gem that gets way less foot traffic than Banff or Jasper National Park. It requires a separate ~$15 park pass that you can buy online or pick up at the visitors center before exploring its lakes, viewpoints, and plethora of hikes for all skill levels.
This itinerary assumes you won’t have time to do a long hike. However, if you do have time, Tent Ridge Horseshoe Trail is one option. It’s a hard, but doable ~6.3-mile loop trail that initially involves a little scrambling in order to get to breathtaking views. Another option is Troll Falls Trailhead, a ~3-mile, out-and-back trail that leads you to a bunch of of waterfalls.
Pro tip: There won’t be food in Kananaskis Provincial Park, so your best bet is to grab a bite in Calgary. Queens Breakfast Cocktails is a brunch spot loved by locals not too far from the airport.
Hike Ptarmigan Cirque Trail
trail info | get directions | length: ~2 mi | elevation gain: ~790 ft | how long to stay: ~2 hrs
Ptarmigan Cirque Trail is known for having stunning views of meadows and mountain vistas. In summer the meadows are dotted with wildflowers, but come fall this trail is famous for magical golden larch trees.
This is the time I tried to do the trail. I say “tried” because it was too snowy on the October 1st we visit. However, if we had spikes and poles, we would have joined everyone else who was better prepared on the trail. If you’ll be visiting October to November, make sure to check the trail conditions and bring the proper equipment. Note, the trailhead has no vehicle access between December and mid June.
You’ll park at Highwood Meadows Day Use area and then take a wide path from the lot until you cross the highway. From there you’ll begin following steep switchbacks through the forest. This is the most difficult section of the hike, but don’t let it deter you. It’ll become a more steady incline about 0.6 miles in.
Eventually you’ll travel through an open, rocky terrain. This is where you’ll be able to snap pictures of the amazing alpine views. Though I didn’t make it to the top, hiker reports claim this spot can get windy so bring extra layers.
Check our Kananaskis Lake
lake info | get directions | how long to stay: ~30 min
One of the best things things to do during any Banff and Jasper itinerary is try to find the bluest alpine lakes. We’ve all heard of famous Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, but Kananaskis Lake can be just as blue on a nice day. And the best part? It has a fraction of the crowds.
There is actually an upper and lower Kananaskis Lake. Most people explore the upper lake, which has ~10 miles of shoreline that you can hike. There’s also a ~6-mile hike option to nearby Rawson Lake. However, for this itinerary you’ll just be going to the day use area and checking out the shoreline near the parking lot.
Brave Blackshale Creek Suspension Bridge
trail info | get directions | length: ~0.6 mi | elevation gain: ~190 ft | how long to stay: ~1 hr
Blackshale Creek Bridge is a hidden gem within Kananaskis Provincial Park that you should add to your Banff and Jasper itinerary. You’ll park on the side of the road and then take a short, but relatively steep hike up a trail until getting to a surprisingly sturdy suspension bridge spanning a ravine. It’s a great place for photos, so get your camera ready!
Drive to your accommodations in Canmore
get directions | how long: ~1 hr
After kicking off your Banff and Jasper itinerary with a visit to the underrated Kananaskis Provincial Park, it’s time to head to your home base for exploring Banff National Park over the next few days. Settle in, unpack a bit, and freshen up before heading out for dinner.
Get dinner at Where the Buffalo Roams Saloon
website | get directions | cuisine: globally-inspired tapas
Where the Buffalo Roams is a hip little restaurant right in downtown Canmore. They have a really good cocktail program and an array of eclectic dishes perfect for sharing.
Drink wise, don’t miss the rose bramble cocktail if it’s on the menu. For food, you must get the steak tartare and avocado chimichurri potato salad. The tartare has pickled Swiss chard, which I’ve never had before but it adds the most delightful zing. The potato salad comes in a huge bowl and is doused in goat cheese and dill. It’s especially transcendent when you get smaller crispier potatoes.
Finish the night with beers at Grizzly Paw Pub
website | get directions | best for: eclectic beers
A few doors down from Where the Buffalo Roams is Grizzly Paw Pub (though they also have a taproom on the other side of town). This lively brewery has a large outdoor patio and plenty of indoor seating, yet it’s always crowded. That’s probably because they’re making some of the most interesting beers in town.
Get a sampler so you can try a bunch of styles. If you’re visiting in fall like I did, don’t mss the pumpkin ale. It’s not as sweet as other autumn beers. I also loved Grizzly Paw’s red, wheat, and porter beers, which they serve year round.
Day 2: Downtown Canmore & Banff
The towns of Canmore and Banff are pretty cute, so I encourage you to save time to explore both during your Banff and Jasper itinerary!
Explore downtown Canmore
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~2 hrs
Canmore is a picturesque little town known for year-round activities and an absolutely stunning mountain backdrop. It has cute shops like Alberta’s Own Marketplace, which showcases over 150 Alberta makers with everything from art to bath products, baby items, jewelry, and gifts.
Another plus of downtown Canmore is you’re still right next to hiking trails. The Policeman’s Creek Trail is an easy 2.5-mile out-and-back boardwalk trail that leaves you feeling far removed from downtown. Yet it’s right within walking distance from all the shops and restaurants.
Another goodie is the Canmore Engine Bridge Trail. It takes you over the Bow River via a cool retro bridge rarely frequented by tourists. The trails alongside it are popular for walking and running.
Head to Banff and stop at Surprise Corner Viewpoint
get directions | how long to stay: ~10 mins
The drive from Canmore to Banff is super quick, though I’d suggest pulling over at Surprise Corner to catch the stunning views of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel across the canyon before you get to Banff. The parking lot is small, so be patient. There’s a viewing platform across the street and up some stairs, but I actually thought the views were better from along the road.
Get lunch at Hankki
website | get directions | cuisine: modern Korean
There are a bunch of restaurants in downtown Banff, but my favorite is this off-the-beaten-path spot. It’s a small, fast-casual restaurant where you order yummy Korean bowls at the counter. Get the duo meat combo with spicy pork and Korean fried chicken so you can try a few of their different meat options. I love how the crunch of the fried chicken plays nicely with the subtle heat from the pork.
Explore downtown Banff
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~2 hrs
Downtown Banff has a picturesque view similar to Canmore, though I think the shops are less creative and full of more High Street brands. That said, it’s definitely worth a quick stroll if for no other reason than grabbing a beer and from Three Bears Brewery and Restaurant. The dining room looks like you’re in a forest and they sell pizza that I read has a pleasantly tangy sourdough crust.
Check out Hoodoo Viewpoint
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~15 mins
After exploring downtown Canmore and Banff, you’re probably jonesing for some outdoor adventures. This is a great time to whet your appetite at some of the Banff National Park attractions close to the downtown core.
Hoodoo Viewpoint is one of the closest attractions, so it’s a great place to start. This Banff to Jasper itinerary assumes you’ll only stop at the viewpoint, but there’s also a trail that goes along the shore if you want to get in a proper hike.
Either way, you’ll be reward with stunning views right next to the parking lot. The viewpoint is known for the three rock spires dotting the Bow River. But you may have trouble focusing on them because they’re overshadowed by a huge mountain vista in the distance.
You’ll notice that there are two red Adirondack chairs that you can relax in while taking in the views. There are actually more than 200 of these chairs around the park, so see how many you can spot during your adventures over the next few days!
Pro tip: You’ll pass Johnson Lake and Two Jack Lake on you way to the next stop. Both offer hiking trails, but feel free to just stop and snap pics if you have time!
Visit Lake Minnewanka
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~2 hrs
Lake Minnewanka is a 21 km-long lake that powers Banff via hydroelectricity. The water is crystal blue and is surrounded by massive mountains, so it’s the perfect spot to explore and take in the views for a few hours of your Banff and Jasper itinerary.
You have a few different options of things to do when visiting Lake Minnewanka. The easiest is just snapping pics as you explore the shore. The main parking lot gets really crowded in the summer, so if you see a spot at the smaller parking lot leading up to the lake, snag it and walk to the dock.
If you don’t want to fight the crowds, consider taking the route 6 bus from downtown Banff. You can also rent an e-bike and bike from downtown Banff.
There’s a ~35-mile trail along the one side of the lake if you want to explore some of the area by foot. However, my favorite thing to do is to get on the water.
One option is to take the motor boat cruise. Tickets are ~$53-$75 depending on the time of year and cruises depart just about every hour from 9 AM until 5 or 7 PM June through October. If you’d prefer to explore the lake at your own pace, you can rent canoes right from the dock.
Snap pics at Vermillion Lakes
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~30 mins
The Vermillion Lakes are actually a series of lakes located in the Bow River Valley. They’re said to be the best spot in Banff to catch sunrise and sunset. We went about an hour before sunset and I have to say, it is quite beautiful, but I imagine it would make an even better sunrise since the sun sets at your back when you’re looking at the lake from the main viewpoint.
No matter if you make it for sunset or not, walk the path between the lakes and take in the gorgeous landscape from the series of viewpoints lining the way.
Get a fancy dinner at Sauvage back in Canmore
website | get directions | cuisine: Canadian farm and forest-to-table
When you’re finally back from your first day of traveling, you’ll definitely want to treat yourself to a fancy dinner. Sauvage is a seasonally-driven restaurant that forages most of their ingredients and sources almost everything from Canada. The dishes are all really creative and unlike any of the tasting menus I’ve had in North America.
The dining room is in a cozy refurbished home, making it a welcome and less stuffy experience. The 5-course tasting menu plus amuse bouche costs ~$120 CAD per person, plus there’s an option to add on a ~$75-100 CAD wine pairing per person or ~$18-30 CAD supplemental dishes.
Overall we did not leave hungry, which is always a concern when it comes to more upscale restaurants. We kept gushing over the creative use of ingredients, some I’d never had before. For example, we had an ice cream with beaver castoreum in it, or their “musk”. I also can’t stop thinking about their pine flour smoked bread with whipped butter that tasted like caramel, escargot with a cheese tuille, and elk with larch needles.
Day 3: Banff National Park
Today you’ll really get into the heart of Banff National Park. It includes a longer afternoon hike, so make sure to get to Johnson Canyon by at least 9 AM to make the most of this day of your Banff and Jasper itinerary.
Remember to double-check the park’s website for road closures or weather warnings before you head out.
Get breakfast at Le fournil Bakery and Eclipse Coffee
Le fournil website (get directions) | Eclipse coffee website (get directions) | best for: coffee and French pastries
Nothing screams vacation more than treating yourself to a giant, flaky, buttery croissant for breakfast. Le fournil is widely recommended for their Euro-style bakery with fresh breads, pastries, sandwiches, and grocery goodies. Grab one of their croissants and whatever else looks good before heading over to nearby Eclipse for high-quality single origins and blends.
Pro tip: If you don’t want to get afternoon tea at the Fairmont Lake Louise for lunch like this Banff and Jasper itinerary recommends, grab lunch to go from one of these breakfast spots because you’ll need to eat to fuel today’s hikes.
Check out Johnston Canyon
website | get directions | length: ~3.3 mi | elevation gain: ~885 ft | how long to stay: ~2 hrs
Johnston Canyon is one of the most accessible, family-friendly hikes in Banff National Park. That’s because it has a board walk that weaves through a canyon to multiple stunning waterfall views.
As a result, Johnston Canyon can get crowded. Your best bet is to visit on a weekday and, regardless of which day you visit, get there by 9 AM the latest. For reference, it started getting crowded at 10 AM when we visit on a weekday in early October. The parking lot was full by the time we got back to our car at noon.
Johnston Canyon is split into two easy trails, the upper and lower falls. You can do the whole ~3 mile route if you want to see the falls from above, but this itinerary assumes you’ll likely only have enough time to make it to the lower falls. If you’re fast though, book it to explore everything Johnston Canyon has to offer!
If you ever played Donkey Kong Country on Super Nintendo, Johnston Canyon reminds me of the Tree Top Town level. There are a bunch of boardwalks mounted to the side of the canyon and you get to see it from both the canyon floor all the way to the upper limits of its walls. I found this to be the best canyon we visited because most of the canyons in Banff and Jasper take you to either the top or sides of for views, not in it. So Johnston Canyon is a must visit on your Banff and Jasper National Parks itinerary!
Get afternoon tea at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~1.5 hrs
Lake Louise is arguably the most popular destination in Banff National Park, and for good reason. It’s a turquoise blue, glacier-fed lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. This results in stunning water reflections and, if you visit at sunrise, the most perfect light that draws photographers from all over the world.
There’s free parking at the lake, but it fills up fast. When it does, you have to take the shuttle from the park and ride ~15 minutes away.
Luckily, parking is one of the perks to getting afternoon tea at the Fairmont Lake Louise. Guests and restaurant visitors can pay ~$30 to park in their garage, which is steps away from the lake. Plus you’ll have access to proper toilets before heading to Moraine Lake later in the afternoon.
Reservations are required for afternoon tea at Fairmont Lake Louise because it’s one of the quintessential things to do on any visit to Banff National Park. It’s very expensive, starting at ~$120 CAD per person (~$45 for kids under 12). However, the dining room is absolutely beautiful with its lakefront views and the 3-tiered eats are an indulgent pre-hike meal. While I may not seek out this spot for its food otherwise, the parking and bathroom perks were worth the splurge.
When you’re done with afternoon tea, take some time to stroll the lake. There’s a paved trail that runs along it and you can even rent bright red canoes to take out on the water. Lake Louise is also a great starting point for many of the park’s most popular hikes. For example Lake Agnes Tea House Trail and Beehive, both of which offer breathtaking views of the lake from above.
That said, you probably won’t have time to hike or paddle here, so snap a few pics before heading to Moraine Lake.
Snap pics at Moraine Lake
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~30 mins
One of the greatest debates is whether Lake Louise or Moraine Lake is prettiest. I’m sure it depends on the angle of the sunlight on the lakes’ water each day, but Moraine Lake was definitely a more stunning shade of blue when we visited despite it being a rather cloudy day.
Given Moraine Lake is the second most popular attraction in Banff National Park behind Lake Louise, it gets very crowded. In fact, the park has closed off the road to visitors and only allows shuttles.
This means you must book a shuttle reservation in advance. Shuttles depart frequently from the Park & Ride area to take bus loads of people to Moraine Lake ~20 minutes away. Book your tickets in advance to ensure you get a spot, and don’t miss your scheduled departure time!
Once at the lake, walk along the shore to take in the views. A ton of great hikes leave from Moraine Lake, including the easy Shoreline Trail, but this Banff and Jasper itinerary assumes you’ll do Larch Valley. You won’t have time for another proper hike, but you can scramble up the Rockpiles to get pretty views of the lake from above.
Hike Larch Valley
trail info | get directions | length: ~5.5 mi | elevation gain: ~1,850 ft | how long it’ll take: ~4 hrs
It isn’t immediately obvious where to find the trailheads departing from Moraine Lake. To find the start of Larch Valley, head toward Moraine Lake Lodge and follow the path that runs parallel to the lake. It’ll eventually veer to the right and take you through a series of difficult switchbacks.
I honestly thought I wasn’t going to make it through these switchbacks, even with pauses to glimpse Moraine Lake between the trees. But after a grueling ~1.5 miles, you’re let out into a meadow with beautiful foliage. As you may have guessed, this hike is famous for the golden larches that dot the trail starting at this meadow. I thought this was the valley, but you continue climbing up through some more thick forest before getting to an even bigger valley that is surrounded by jaw-dropping mountains and even more larches.
All in all, Larch Valley took us about 4 hours to complete. We were completely spent at the end, but this is easily one of my favorite things we did during our whole trip.
Where the Larch Valley hike ends, the Sentinel Pass one begins. I was jealous of the people booking it up the additional ~2 miles toward the ridge, as I’m sure they got breathtaking views, but there was no way we’d have made it back in time before dark so we skipped it. If you’re fast, you can maybe squeeze it in! Just make sure to look up when sunset is the day you plan to visit.
If you’re interested in more hiking options, Eiffel Lake leaves from the same trailhead as Larch Valley and supposedly has fewer crowds. From Eiffel Lake, you can continue onto Wenkchemna Pass for another few miles for more larches and great views. Whichever trail you choose, hiking at Moraine lake will be one of the best things you can do during your Banff and Jasper itinerary!
Get dinner at The Bison in Banff
website | get directions | cuisine: Canadian
Once you’re fully exhausted from a day of hiking, The Bison will instantly feed your soul. This seasonally-driven restaurant sources most of their ingredients locally, including wine from Okanagan which wasn’t featured in nearly enough restaurants. I loved the bison bolognese and the braised beef with German ham and cheese dumplings, both of which were hearty and deeply satisfying. Get them if they’re on the menu!
Day 4: Northern Banff & Yoho National Parks
At this point you’ll check out of your Canmore or Banff accommodations and make your way toward your Jasper National Park accommodations. The route you’ll take is the perfect excuse to explore the attractions in northern Banff and detour to the underrated Yoho National Park a bit to the west.
Get breakfast at Communiteas in Canmore
website | get directions | cuisine: healthy
It’s almost a 4-hour drive from Canmore to Jasper, so you’ll definitely want to have a hearty breakfast before heading out. Communiteas is a great spot for healthy bowls and sandwiches. I suggest getting the Huevo Burrito and the Big Breakfast Bowl. They also serve excellent coffee from Pilot Roasters out of Toronto.
Snap pics at Morant’s Curve
get directions | how long to stay: ~10 mins
Morant’s Curve is a popular photography spot about an hour north of Canmore near Lake Louise. It’s a railroad that makes an S curve, and when the train runs through, it makes for a really unique photo experience. Dan thought it was just okay, but I’m a photo nerd and I loved it!
We were lucky that a train arrived just when we did, but you may need to be patient while you wait for one to arrive. If you only have an iPhone, try taking Live photos and changing to a long exposure in the settings afterwards for unique pics.
Visit Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~1 hr
Yoho National Park is underrated in my opinion and definitely worth a stop. It’s less heavily trafficked, so things like canoe rentals are cheaper and you don’t have to wade through crowds. Plus your national park ticket that you bought for Banff works here, too.
One of the most breathtaking attractions in the park is Emerald Lake. Mountains reflect beautifully in its clear, green-blue water. While the light is supposedly better in the afternoon, we went around lunchtime and thought it was perfect. Take it in by walking all or some of the ~3.4 mile trail that loops around the shore.
Check out the Natural Bridge
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~10 mins
Aptly named for giant rock formations resembling a bridge, the Natural Bridge makes for a pretty viewpoint worth stopping for cool photos.
There are two viewpoints that give you different vantage points, but I liked the bigger viewpoint from the man-made bridge that runs parallel to the Natural Bridge. Not only because it offers pretty views of the Natural Bridge itself, but also because you can see the most beautiful rock striations on the river bed if you look the opposite direction.
Go to Truffle Pigs Bistro for lunch
website | get directions | cuisine: Canadian
Truffle Pigs is a cute bistro that also functions as a lodge. It’s off the beaten path in the super quiet town of Field. There aren’t many businesses, so it’s surprising to find a restaurant doling out such serious food.
The menu is eclectic and shows off the best elements of Canadian cuisine. Order the mussels if available. They’re fresh from Canadian waters and come in an irresistible herb sauce and toasted ciabatta for dipping.
Visit Takakkaw Falls
website | get directions | length: ~1.1 mi | elevation gain: ~236 ft | how long to stay: ~1 hr
This was one of my favorite stops during our trip to Yoho NP. It’s the second-highest waterfall in Canada only behind Niagara Falls, so you can actually see it from the road.
But I recommend taking the short out-and-back trail to get under the falls. There’s a photo-op at every angle and tons of nooks and crannies to explore, including more of the famous red chairs.
Snap pics at Peyto Lake
website | get directions | length: ~1.5 mi | elevation gain: ~305 ft | how long to stay: ~30 mins
After exploring Yoho NP, it’s time to make your way to Jasper National Park via the famous Icefields Parkway. Along the way you’ll pass Bow Lake and Waterfowl Lake. Both are good stops for quick pictures, but neither are worth spending too much time at. I much prefer continuing to Peyto Lake for its milky, glacier-fed blue water.
I’m convinced Peyto Lake is more blue than Lake Louise or Moraine Lake. To get to it, there’s a paved ½ mile trail leading from the main parking lot to the viewing platform. While short, the path gets surprisingly steep in some places. If you’re traveling with people who can’t make the journey, follow the bus and handicap signs to the upper parking lot where you can try to find a spot or at least drop off part of your crew.
Once at the viewing platform, you’ll be greeted with absolutely incredible views of the long and narrow alpine lake hugging the mountains. A bunch of hikes leave from this point and take you to even more beautiful views at higher elevation, but this itinerary assumes you’ll mostly just take in the views from here.
However, if you want a hidden viewpoint not too far from the platform, here’s a guide to finding it.
Check out Mistaya Canyon
website | get directions | length: ~1.2 mi | elevation gain: ~272 ft | how long to stay: ~45 mins
The next stretch of road along the Icefields Parkway between Peyto Lake and Jasper will be stunning. Feel free to stop at viewpoints along the way, but save time for Mistaya Canyon closer to Jasper.
Mistaya Canyon has been carved over thousands of years by a river that flows down from Peyto Lake. You’ll start at parking lot and head toward the canyon via a gravel path. At the end of it you’ll be met with a canyon gushing with turquoise waters.
If I’m being honest, I prefer Johnston Canyon since it offers a more immersive experience directly in the canyon. At Mistaya the canyon is smaller and it looks more like a pretty river. Still, it’s a good stop to stretch your legs and there are still some nice photo-worthy pics.
Enjoy beers at Jasper Brewing
website | get directions | best for: relaxing over a few beers
Jasper Brewing is temporarily closed because of the tragic July 2024 wildfires. Keep an eye on their Instagram page for updates.
Congratulations, you made it to Jasper! After you check into your accommodations, head to Jasper Brewing to toast your arrival.
Jasper Brewing is your typical easygoing pub in a mountain town. I didn’t get a chance to try the food, but a server walked by our table with a giant skillet heaping with cheesy nachos and I almost considered canceling our dinner plans.
The beers are well-made, and they have interesting seasonal flavors like vanilla blueberry and key lime pie. Definitely get a sampler so you can try as many as possible!
Get dinner at Estio
website | get directions | cuisine: Jamaican
Estio is temporarily closed because of the wildfires. Consider donating to their GoFundMe and keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates.
If you asked me what a hidden gem restaurant in Jasper might be, I probably wouldn’t have guessed Jamaican, but then I’d be eating my words. Estio Jasper, previously known as The Spice Joint, is a cozy and colorful spot that plays joyful Jamaican music and leaves you feeling like you’ve been transported to the island.
Get either the jerk chicken sandwich or spicy beef patties if available. The beef has the perfect balance of spices, and the dough has a nostalgic Cheez-Its flavor thanks to the cheddar cheese. This spot has some of my favorite bites during our whole Banff and Jasper itinerary, so it’s a must stop!
Day 5: Jasper National Park
Today will be your only full day in Jasper National Park, Canada’s largest national park, so get up early to make the most of it!
Jasper National Park experienced devastating wildfires in July 2024. Some of the following attractions may have been affected, so please check each before visiting and keep an eye on the park service’s wildfire updates.
Hike Edith Cavell Meadow
website | get directions | length: ~4.6 mi | elevation gain: ~1,820 ft | how long to stay: ~3.5 hrs
Edith Cavell Meadow is said to be one of the best hikes in Jasper, but you’ll want to double-check to make sure the road is open. We assumed it would be since the website said it “closes early October,” only to find out we were there the day after it closed for the season!
If the meadow is closed when you visit, you can hike the almost equally as long Sulphur Mountain Trail or canoe Pyramid Lake instead. We did the latter and got the most stunning photos.
Grab lunch at Patricia Street Deli
website | get directions | cuisine: deli
Patricia Street Deli is closed due to the wildfires. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates.
This hidden gem is tucked into the back of a strip mall in downtown Jasper, so it’s easy to miss. The deli is tiny and has no indoor seating, so you’ll have to sit outside under the covered strip mall area.
Patricia’s is like a much better Subway in that you make your own sandwiches, but with superior ingredients. There’s usually only one person working, so be patient! The roast chicken is worth the wait.
Explore downtown Jasper
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~1-2 hrs
I didn’t like the shopping in Jasper as much as I did in Canmore, but it’s worth it to walk around and explore. If you’re thirsty, I hear Mad Grizzly bistro.bar is a swanky, seasonally-driven restaurant with a killer beer and wine list.
Visit Maligne Canyon
website | get directions | length: ~2.3 mi | elevation gain: ~406 ft | how long to stay: ~1 hr
Now it’s time to check out the portion of Jasper National Park to the east of downtown. Maligne Canyon is close to town and was recommended to me by a fellow PNW travel blogger for its viewpoints and photo-ops.
Unlike Johnson Falls where you get to go inside the canyon, the views of Maligne Canyon are from above or below. I didn’t love this as much, but it’s still cool to get views at various heights of the water gushings around rock formations.
Check out Medicine Lake
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~1 hr
I was not expecting to love Medicine Lake as much as I did. It’s a hidden gem most people pass right by on their way to the more famous Maligne Lake, but it’s absolutely worth a stop.
This 4-miles long lake is famous for its disappearing water. In summer it looks like your typical alpine lake, but come fall the water drains out through sinkholes and travels through a cave system only to resurface about 10 miles downstream. The result is a mudflat, which isn’t as impressive as in the summer, but it adds to the eerie surrounding landscape. You see, a fire passed through this area at some point and all the surrounding trees are bare. I absolutely loved the haunted vibe it gave!
Go moose spotting at Maligne Lake
website | get directions | how long to stay: ~1 hr
As I mentioned, Malign Lake is a popular photography spot. When we arrived at just before golden hour, there were people lined up with tripods waiting to capture a shot of the boathouse and Spirit Island in the middle of the lake.
Maligne Lake is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. While pretty, I didn’t like it nearly as much as Medicine Lake. Since it’s 30 minutes away, I admittedly was pretty grumpy about the detour and pouted on the drive home.
That was, until we started seeing moose. I had complained up to this point of the trip that we hadn’t seen any, so you could imagine my surprise that not one, but two crossed the road in front of us on the drive back to our accommodations. I started noticing photography groups lurking around the road. Later I found out that this area is home to a lot of moose and they’re most active at dusk, so photographers come in droves to try and get the perfect shot.
This was a bit surprising to me because moose are known for being mean, but it was amazing to watch these magnificent creatures from the comfort of our car. Seeing them made the trip to Maligne Lake worth it.
Enjoy dinner at Syrahs in Jasper
website | get directions | cuisine: Canadian
Syrahs is closed due to the wildfires. Keep an eye on their Facebook page for updates.
Syrahs is one of the best-rated restaurants in Jasper, so it’s the perfect last dinner for you Banff and Jasper itinerary.
They serve comforting, well-executed Canadian dishes using local ingredients. The must-get is the elk Wellington, which comes out with perfectly cooked elk surrounded by fluffy, buttery dough. I also couldn’t stop gushing over their bread basket that’s served with incredible homemade chive biscuits and paprika butter.
Day 6: Jasper National Park
Sadly you’ve made it to your last day of this Banff and Jasper itinerary. You’ll make the long drive from Jasper National Park to the Calgary Airport, fitting in as many last-minute attractions along the way.
Get breakfast at Sunhouse Cafe after checkout
website | get directions | cuisine: Canadian
Sunhouse Cafe is closed due to the wildfires. Keep an eye on their Instagram page for updates.
This bright and cheery cafe has a cool atrium ceiling, letting in floods of natural light. There’s also outdoor seating offering panoramic mountain views, which makes it a great last breakfast for your trip.
The coffee is excellent and they serve healthy-leaning breakfast dishes that clearly cater to millennials. The Turkish eggs and halloumi were a winner thanks to the balance of tangy labneh and spicy oil.
Hike Valley of the Five Lakes
website | get directions | length: ~3 mi | elevation gain: ~528 ft | how long to stay: ~1.5 hrs
If you did the Edith Meadows yesterday, you’re probably sore. The Valley of the Five Lakes is a relatively flat stroll that’ll be easy on the body, but still offer great ambiance. The loop will take you past, you guessed it, five different alpine lakes.
I really enjoyed this hike, with the fourth lake and its emerald waters being my favorite. There wasn’t a lot of foot traffic and we even saw playful otters. But the best discovery was probably that you can rent canoes in Jasper and get the key to unlock the boats left by the lake. It’s nice that you can take a leisurely paddle without having to actually carry the boat with you on your hike!
Visit Sunwapta Falls
website | get directions | length: ~2 mi | elevation gain: ~479 ft | how long to stay: ~30 mins
On your drive back toward Calgary you’ll pass by Athabasca Falls, which is okay for a quick snap, but I think Sunwapta Falls is more impressive. It consists of an upper and lower waterfall fed by the nearby Athabasca Glacier.
You can do the full hike, but you’ll get a good view of the upper falls from the viewpoint near the parking lot. It drops about 59 feet into the rock formations below. If you want to go to the lower falls, you’ll hike through a pine forest before seeing three waterfalls spread across the Sunwapta River. Late spring or early summer will have the most gushing flows, but we went in early October and it was still roaring!
Pro tip: As you head back along the Icefields Parkway toward your next stop, you’ll notice an impressive glass bridge jutting over the ledge. That’s the Columbia Icefield Skywalk if you want to stop.
Check out the Toe of Athabasca Glacier
website | get directions | length: ~0.9 mi | elevation gain: ~200 ft | how long to stay: ~30 mins
On your way to Jasper you probably noticed people and bright red trucks milling around a glacier. That’s the Toe of Athabasca Glacier and it’s your last stop in Jasper National Park.
As the Icefields Parkway name suggests, there are a bunch of snowy glaciers in this part of the Canadian Rockies. However global warming is causing the glaciers to recede, and you’ll really feel that with this hike.
While only about a mile long, the glacier looks much closer to the parking lot than it actually it. You’ll feel like you’re walking in one of those never ending hallways in a haunted house until you actually reach the ending point of the trail. But don’t worry, the trail isn’t difficult. Aside from loose rock, it’s flat and an easy jaunt from the parking lot.
If you want to actually get on the ice, you’ll need to book an ice fields tour or guided ice walk.
Drive to Banff
get directions | how long: ~2.5 hrs
Settle in for the long drive from the edge of Jasper National Park back to the town of Banff. If you want to fit in one last attraction, the Banff Gondola is a worthy final destination before you grab lunch.
Get lunch at Bluebird in Banff
website | get directions | cuisine: Canadian
Bluebird is a trendy steakhouse in the heart of downtown Banff, but they also offer breakfast and lunch through 2 PM before reopening again at 4 pm for their famous fondue happy hour. If you want breakfast foods, there are soufflé pancakes, Benedicts, and toasts to fill your craving. Or opt for their meat-forward sandwiches.
Is Bluebird closed when you’ll arrive in Banff? Wildflour Bakery is a quick option.
Drive to Calgary
get directions | how long: ~1.5 hrs
It’s finally time to bid farewell to Canada and head back to Calgary. If you need to head straight to the airport, give yourself ample time to return your rental car and get through customs. Oh, and don’t forget to dispose of bear spray! Here’s a list of spots in Calgary that will safely dispose of it for free.
Tips for visiting Banff and Jasper National Park
Here are some pro tips for making the most of your 6 days in Banff and Jasper National Parks.
How to get Banff and Jasper
Your best bet is to fly into the Calgary International Airport for your week in Banff and Jasper. Once you arrive, the rental car center is located on the departure level across the roadway from the domestic terminal. Yes, you need to rent a car for this trip!
The Edmonton Airport is also an option, but it’s ~3 ½ hours away from Jasper versus the 1 ½ hours from Calgary to Banff. So I think it’s best to fly into Calgary.
Best time to visit
Any time is good, especially if you’re a snowbird who loves skiing and snowshoeing. However, the thought of braving the Banff and Jasper roads in winter scares me, so I prefer late September through the first week of October for the milder weather, larches, and thinner crowds.
How much it costs
Luckily Calgary is only a ~1.5-hour flight from Seattle. The short distance means flights to Calgary can be as low as ~$75 per direct flight depending on when you visit.
As for the parks, you’ll need to buy a pass online or in-person when you enter. Single days passes are ~$11 CAD per adult, per day. So if you’re traveling with a larger group, buying the annual Discovery Pass for ~$72.25 CAD per adult or ~$145.25 CAD per vehicle for up to seven people is your best bet.
Both pass options get you into Banff, Jasper, and Yoho National Parks. Kanasakis requires its own ~$15 CAD per vehicle Conservation Pass, which you can get upon your arrival.
Where to stay
There are three main towns you’ll want stay in on your trip: Canmore, Banff, and Jasper. The town of Jasper makes the most sense during the Jasper National Park leg of your trip, but both Canmore and the town of Banff work for the Banff NP leg.
Canmore is a bit south of Banff National Park, but I prefer it because it has the cutest downtown and more of a locals vibe. It also has more trails accessible from downtown compared to Banff. But if staying closer to the national park attractions is important to you, or if you like that more resort town feel, Banff is a good choice.
The Fairmont Banff Springs and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise are probably the two most iconic hotels to stay at in Banff National Park, but each is typically more than $1,000/night. If you, like me, think that’s too expensive, here are other great spots to book for your trip.
Rocky Mountain Skyline Townhouse
link to book | Canmore | price: ~$322 per night | 3 bedrooms | 3 bathrooms | hot tub
We stayed in a different unit in this building for the first leg of our trip and loved it. It’s spacious and just a 10-minute walk from downtown. Plus it comes with a Discovery Pass so you don’t need to pay for entry into the park!
Rimrock Resort Hotel
link to book | get directions (Banff) | price: ~$533+ per night | hot tub | pet friendly
This upscale resort hotel on Sulphur Mountain is a bit of a splurge, but the view is unbeatable. Staying here puts you just a 5-minute walk from the Upper Hot Springs and Banff Gondola, the latter of which takes you directly over the top of the mountain. From the hotel, you can relax in the indoor pool, get a massage, or grab a drink in one of the multiple bars and restaurants.
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (temporarily closed due to wildfires)
link to book | get directions (Jasper) | price: ~$306-524 per night | pet friendly | hot tub
This mountain resort is the perfect spot to relax after a long day of hiking. You’ll be just a 2-minute drive from the Athabasca River and less than 10 minutes from downtown Jasper. There’s also a seasonal golf course and a poolside bar.
Pyramid Lake Lodge (temporarily closed due to wildfires)
link to book | get directions (Jasper) | price: ~$175-288 per night | pet friendly | hot tub
We stayed here for the Jasper leg of our trip and loved it. For being so reasonably priced, the amenities and views were incredible. They even offer free bike and canoe rentals. It was absolutely magical paddling on Pyramid Lake and relaxing on the dock at sunset.
What to bring
As with much of the PNW, you’ll want to bring bear spray on your hikes. You can get this at Cabela’s in Calgary. When you’re ready to dispose of it, check out this list of the ranger stations and firehouses near the airport that recycle bear spray.
In addition to bear spray, consider bringing bear bells. You’ll also want the typical hiking gear, like proper hiking shoes, sunscreen, multiple layers, water bottles, etc. If you’re checking a bag, consider bringing hiking poles and spikes for maneuvering in the snow. We did carry-on only so we went without, but we wished we had them!
Map of Banff and Jasper attractions
Want more ideas to customize your Banff and Jasper itinerary? Here’s the Google Map I curated while planning my own trip. It has a bunch more hikes, viewpoints, and restaurants to explore. It also includes things to do in Calgary if you’re able to tack on a day or two there!
More to explore in Canada
If you’re able to tack on my days to your Banff and Jasper itinerary, check out these other areas of Alberta and nearby British Columbia.
