Description
R-tinerary would like to provide you with a free itinerary! This trip itinerary begins in the Canadian Rockies in the town of Jasper and ends at Niagara-on-the-Lake. We want to share this fabulous free itinerary with you; this way you will know how our trips are presented.
This 9-day trip begins in the quaint town of Jasper. Coupled with Jasper’s unpretentiousness, this friendly town has half the annual visitors as Banff. During your stay in Jasper, dine in delicious restaurants offering spectacular, mountain views. Stay in an adorable lodge, hike to one of the most interesting canyons in the Canadian Rockies and enjoy whitewater rafting. Then, travel south to Lake Louise via the Icefields Parkway spying ancient glaciers along the route.
During your stay at Lake Moraine witness fabulous sunrises. Then, hike to teahouses and the toe of glaciers at Lake Louise. Consequently, along the way, discover lakes with the most intense shade of turquoise.
Next, spend time in the charming ‘best-kept secret’ town of Canmore, where you have the chance to climb, crawl, wiggle and slide through a cave. After that, enjoy a bike ride through a picturesque forest to the town of Banff.
Finally, fly to Toronto and spend the final days of this trip in the well-preserved, 19th-century village of Niagara-on-the-Lake in the Niagara wine region. This village sits amongst a pristine countryside and offers unique shops, only a few miles from Niagara Falls.
In conclusion, we want our tested itinerary, to make your trip, fabulous!
Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1hamb_TUIAnqZt6Ig-ZopuZ4zDVtKsGRk&usp=sharing
Day 1:
Arrive in Edmonton
Drive to Jasper National Park
https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/jasper/visit
“Jasper National Park was established in 1907 and is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Jasper is the wildest of the mountain parks and contains a superb backcountry trial system as well as the world-famous Columbia Icefields, one of the only Icefields in the world accessible by road.”
Bear Hill Lodge
100 Bonhomme St, Jasper
https://www.bearhilllodge.com/
“We offer a wide variety of accommodations from small to large, simple to luxurious.”
Dinner at Downstream
620B Connaught Dr, Jasper
https://www.downstreamjasper.ca
“Dimly lit hub for steaks, seafood and other comfort foods plus cocktails in shakers and local spirits.”
Day 2:
Breakfast at Bear Hill Lodge
See Maligne Canyon
AB T0E 1E0, Jasper
https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/attractions/maligne-canyon/
“Maligne Canyon is a slot canyon located in the Jasper National Park near Jasper. Eroded out of the Palliser Formation, the canyon measures over 50 meters deep.”
Hike Trial of Six Bridges
AB T0E 1E0, Jasper
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/alberta/maligne-canyon-to-old-fort-point-trail?u=i
“The trail of Six Bridges is listed as #23 of the Best Hikes of North America and is considered the “Most Interesting Canyon in the Canadian Rockies”. The hiking distance is 2.25 miles one way (from the 6th bridge) and is considered an easy hike.”
Whitewater Rafting with Jasper’s Whitewater Rafting Company
618 Connaught Dr, Jasper
https://whitewaterraftingjasper.com
“The journey down the river starts 50 kilometers (30 miles) from its glacial source. This river is aptly named Sunwapta (turbulent waters). The first half of the trip is gentle and scenic paddling. The latter portion presents sustained whitewater up to Class 3+. This run is very challenging and is tailored for those who are physically fit and strong swimmers.”
Dinner at Earls Kitchen and Bar
600 Patricia Street, Jasper
https://www.earls.ca/locations/jasper/
“Experience the mountains up-close and personal, watch wildlife in its natural and spectacular environment, and relish in your Rocky Mountain adventures. Boasting the best view in Jasper from the patio with 280-degree view of the Canadian Rockies.”
Day 3:
Breakfast at Bear Hill Lodge
Drive the Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise
“The Icefields Parkway is described as one of the most scenic drives in the world. National Geographic Traveler Magazine has labeled the Parkway as one of the “20 Drives of a Lifetime”.
Along the way stop at:
Athabasca Falls, about 30 km (18 miles) south of Jasper. “A powerful and very picturesque waterfall.” It is listed as a “Class 5” waterfall with a drop of 80 feet and width of 60 ft.
Sunwapta Falls, to see the Upper Falls follow the paved trail from the parking lot along the fenced ridge of Sunwapta Canyon to the falls. It is a .5-mile round trip hike. To see the Lower Falls, walk along the canyon to the trail sign and turn right. Follow the trail through the forest along a gorge for .75 miles until you reach the lower falls. You can climb down the steep section to get a better view of the three falls that form the lower falls. These falls were truly beautiful and much less crowded than Athabasca Falls.
Tangle Creek Falls, this waterfall is just off the highway. Likewise, the waterfall is a multitiered cascade fall; the spray from the falls almost reaches the highway.
Athabasca Glacier, part of the colossal Columbia Icefield that bestrides the continental divide and this is the most visited Glacier in North America.
Lunch at the Crossing Resort
Highway 93 and, AB-11 No. 9
https://www.thecrossingresort.com
“From the deck of the Parkway Pub, you’ll overlook some of the most spectacular sights in the Canadian Rockies. Breathtaking views of Mt. Sarbach an Mt. Murchison provide a postcard backdrop.”
Continue along the drive:
Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint, attached to the northeastern side of Crowfoot Mountain, overlooking Bow Lake, the glacier’s runoff feeds into the Bow River, which flows from Banff National Park through the City of Calgary to the Alberta prairies.
Herbert Lake Trail, a 1.6 kilometer moderately trafficked loop trail offers the chance to see wildlife and is considered easy.
Lake Louise, the sight of the emerald green water and rugged peaks and glaciers hits you viscerally. You’ve never seen anything so dramatically beautiful.
Dinner at The Outpost at the Post Hotel & Spa
200 Pipestone, Lake Louise
https://posthotel.com/cuisine/the-outpost/
“A comfortable, “English Style Pub” setting with a lovely fireplace offering a pub-fare menu and sports events on TVs.”
The Post Hotel & Spa
200 Pipestone, Lake Louise
https://posthotel.com/the-lodge/
“Originally built in 1942, The Post Hotel resonates with the spirit of its colorful founder, Sir Norman Watson – and the dedication of its current owners. The Post Hotel & Spa is both the ideal accommodation for relaxation and the perfect starting point for most Canadian Rockies tours.”
Day 4:
Breakfast at The Post Hotel & Spa
Hike Lake Agnes Tea House, Big Beehive Summit to Highline Trail, to Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, back to Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail
http://hikingwalking.com/index.php/destinations/ab/ab_rockies/banff/agnes_6glaciers
“Soaring peaks, glaciers and scenic lakes are the hallmarks of this classic hike visiting the main attractions in the Lake Louise Valley; Lake Agnes, the Big Beehive and the Plain of the Six Glaciers. Ambitious hikers will also what to climb the Little Beehive, a side trip that adds a mile to the hike.” This hike is considered moderate to strenuous, 12.2-mile loop.
Solara Resort & Spa
183 Kananaskis Way, Canmore
“Sheer luxury artfully combined with the warm comforts of a rugged mountain retreat. The resort includes elegant suites with fireplaces, balconies, plus a spa, an indoor pool, and a conference center.”
Red Rock Pizza
#100-1005 Cougar Creek Drive, Canmore
https://redrockpizza.ca/canmore
“Counter-serve joint for classics such pizza, pasta, wings, ribs & salads along with craft beer.”
Day 5:
Canmore Cave Tour
129 Bow Meadows Crescent, Canmore
https://www.canmorecavetours.com
“Our Adventure Tour is our flagship tour and has been recognized as a Canadian Signature Experience. As the longest tour we offer in Rat’s Nest Cave, the Adventure Tour is the complete package. Cavers will rappel 18m (that’s 6 Stories!) inside the cave, plus have the opportunity to push your limits in the warm-up squeeze, challenge squeeze, and the Laundry Chute – a section of the cave that adds a little extra challenge but a whole lot of extra fun. Visit the impressive Grand Gallery – the largest known room in the cave, then surround yourself with ancient cave formations in the Grotto.”
Grizzly Paw Brewing Company
622 Main Street, Canmore
https://www.thegrizzlypaw.com
“We strive to be recognized as the premier Rocky Mountain hospitality brand. We are fiercely committed to our colleagues, community, environment, and guests by crafting fresh food, a dynamic beer selection, locally made soda, and engaging experiences.”
Day 6:
Rent Bikes at Rebound Cycle
902 Main St., Canmore
https://reboundcycle.com
“At Rebound Cycle we strive to have the best working rental fleet possible and additional offerings to make your experience a success. All our rental bikes are tuned and professionally set up for every rider. From seat position to a suspension setup, we make sure your rental needs are met.”
Ride the Bike ‘n Hike Shuttle to Goat Creek Trailhead
https://www.pinkbike.com/directory/9330/bike-and-hike-shuttle-
Bike Goat Creek Trail to Banff
https://hikebiketravel.com/biking-albertas-goat-creek-trail-from-canmore-to-banff/
“Goat Creek Trail offers a fun mountain bike ride that traverses the beautiful valley between Mount Rundle and Sulphur Mountain. The bike ride is not particularly difficult and is 11.5 miles downhill on the wide Goat Creek Trail. Of course there are a couple of steep sections that tentative mountain bikers might not like but they’re short and you can always walk.”
Lunch at Tommy’s Neighborhood Pub
120 Banff Ave, Banff
http://tommysneighbourhoodpub.com
“A favorite place to rub shoulders with locals and enjoy good Canadian and English pub food and drink. In short, celebrities and the girl next door all join Tommy for fun!”
Bike the Legacy Trail to Canmore
https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/banff/activ/cyclismeroute-roadcycling/Heritage-Legacy
This is a paved trail that follows the Trans-Canada Highway. The trailhead is at the edge of town along Banff Avenue. It is 15 miles from Banff to Canmore.
Canmore Brewing Company
1460 Railway Ave, Canmore
“We’ve got a selection of light fare to get you through the growlies. From savory hand pies by Pie Junkie – made from scratch with an all-butter crust and homemade fillings, to beer pretzels.”
Day 7:
Hike Johnston Canyon to Ink Pots
Hwy 1A, Banff
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/alberta/johnston-canyon-to-ink-pots?u=i
7.3 miles out and back, considered moderate. Go early, it gets crowded.
Lunch at Black Swift, Johnston Canyon Lodge
Hwy 1 A, Banff
“Join us for locally inspired food that is the ideal complement to a day of hiking, cycling or exploring the Rockies.”
Ride Roam Transit to Banff
https://roamtransit.com/services/canmore-banff-regional/
Travel time from Canmore to Banff is 24 minutes.
Dinner at Saltlik
221 Bear St, Banff
https://saltlik.com/location/saltlik-banff/
“Steaks, chops, cocktails & a diverse wine list in an upscale Canadian eatery with a lodge like vibe.”
Day 8:
Fly to Toronto from Calgary International Airport
Drive to Niagara-On-The -Lake
“Nestled in the corner of the Niagara Region just beyond Niagara Falls, the picturesque Niagara-on-the-Lake epitomizes old town charm. Known by the locals as NOTL, this must visit village is bordered on both sides by waterfront with arbor-framed streets. Beyond the quaint old town, explore the area’s many wineries, breweries and distilleries.”
Contemporary (West) Loft in Historic Niagara
Four Mile Creek Rd, NOTL
“The Fire Hall Lofts created in 2019, put you in the middle of Niagara’s Wineries, bike trails, The Shaw Festival Theatre, Whirlpool Jet Boat Tours, historic forts from the War of 1812, specialty shopping in old town NOTL, The Outlet Collection mall – and the World Heritage site of Niagara Falls.”
Dinner at Niagara-On-The-Lake Golf Club Patio
143 Front Street, NOTL
“Our dining room has an excellent view of the boats sailing the lake and entering the mouth of the mighty Niagara River.”
After Dinner Drinks at the Sand Trap Pub and Grill
358 Mary St, NOTL
“A sports pub that offers local beer, pizza, wings, burgers, etc. and offers pool tables and darts.”
Day 9:
Breakfast at Tim Hortons
443 Mississauga Street, NOTL
“At Tim Hortons we offer Canadian food for any occasion.”
Rent bikes from Zoom Leisure Bike Shop
431 Mississauga St, NOTL
“There’s no better way to explore the vineyards, gardens, take a wine tour, fruit farms, visit craft breweries and the friendly towns of Niagara on the Lake and Niagara Falls than on a leisurely cruise along the region’s scenic cycling trails.”
Bike the Niagara Parkway Recreational Trail
https://zoomleisure.com/cycling-in-niagara/maps-and-getting-around
About 13.5 miles to the falls on a wide bike trail.
Tour Niagara Falls on the Voyage to the Falls
5920 Niagara Parkway, Niagara Falls
https://www.niagaracruises.com/voyage-to-the-falls-boat-tour/
“The 20-minute Voyage to the Falls boat tour brings guests on the journey of a lifetime. Enjoy stunning views of the Niagara Gorge, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls, and come face-to-face with the famous Canadian Horseshoe Falls.”
Dinner at Two Sisters Vineyards, Kitchen 76
240 John Street E, NOTL
https://www.twosistersvineyards.com
“Luxurious winery eatery for intricate Italian cuisine, with stately decor & a patio with views.”
Day 10:
Travel Home
Leigh Bowran –
These plans are great. They are a little too active for us. But still used most of the suggestions.
Ann –
I can’t believe all the information included with these free plans! Our family can’t wait to explore the Canadian Rockies!
Bryan Roberts –
Wow, I never would of known about the cave excursion expect for these travel plans! Thanks
Dan Bennett –
My wife and I followed this travel plans and were amazed how perfect they were. My only suggestion, when booking, plan months in advance.
Wayne Tyson –
This itinerary is great! Love the off the beaten path places. Have since bought the rtinerary plans to Yellowstone and Beyond, worth every penny!
Ralph Sweeney –
Seems like a lot of the plans you find online are for extremely adventurous people or for people looking for R & R. These plans are different, the are do-able for average people. Thank you for actually traveling this itinerary and showing that we could do it too.
Bob Acres –
Beautiful scenery, lots of driving.
Sally Costello –
I can’t believe all this information is free! We used this itinerary to add to our trip! Best find ever!
Sandy –
The information included is great. My only complaint is that it took a lot of ink to print the document. Next time I won’t print. Thanks for sharing.
Helen J. –
The trip of a lifetime. Very sad for it to end.
Brenda M. –
This was exactly “as advertised.” Stunning scenery and an excellent itinerary. I highly recommend these trip plans!