Canada motorhome trip from Edmonton to Vancouver RV trip plan

Embarking on an unforgettable 15-day road trip through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, you’ll explore the diverse landscapes, rich history, and unique experiences that await from Edmonton to Vancouver. This adventure, ideal for families, offers everything from fossil-filled museums to towering mountain peaks, serene lakes, and world-class cities.

The Journey Begins: Edmonton to Calgary

Starting in Edmonton, we picked up our motorhome from a local RV rental spot, ensuring a smooth start to our adventure. With the Edmonton Valley Zoo being our first stop, the kids loved meeting the animals before we set off for the rest of the trip. From there, we hit the road to Calgary, where we couldn’t miss the world-famous Calgary Stampede, an authentic rodeo experience with plenty of cowboy culture to absorb.

Exploring Banff National Park

After a few days exploring Calgary, we ventured into Banff National Park, where the real magic began. The first highlight was the Banff Gondola, which whisked us up Sulphur Mountain, offering panoramic views of the rugged peaks and sprawling valleys below. From here, we enjoyed a short hike to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, the birthplace of Canada’s national park system.

As the sun started to set, we headed to the Warner Stables for a memorable horseback ride through Banff's stunning wilderness, where we were able to take in the scenery from the saddle. The next day, we were off to Lake Agnes Tea House, a perfect spot for a peaceful mountain retreat while sipping hot tea with views of the serene lake.

Icefields Parkway Adventure

One of the highlights of this road trip is undoubtedly the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure. Cruising along the Icefields Parkway in our campervan, we reached the Athabasca Glacier, where we had the rare opportunity to walk on the ice itself. The experience was incredible, and the kids were thrilled to don special ice boots and explore this frozen world.

We rounded out our time in the Jasper region with a relaxing visit to Miette Hot Springs, where we soaked in the warm waters, surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests.

A Thrilling Detour in Kamloops and Hell's Gate

From Jasper, we made our way south through the scenic Thompson-Nicola region, stopping in Kamloops to visit the Kamloops Museum & Archives, a great spot to learn about the area’s history. Our next adventure took us to Hell's Gate Airtram, where we got to experience a thrilling gondola ride over the Fraser River, offering dramatic views of the canyon below.

Westward to Vancouver: Eco-Fun and Urban Adventures

As we continued west, we made a stop at Cultus Lake Adventure Park, a favorite family-friendly spot with amusement rides, go-karts, and water activities. A quick visit to EcoDairy was next on the list, where the kids could get up close with farm animals and learn about sustainable farming practices.

Arriving in Vancouver, we spent a day at Granville Island Public Market, where we tasted local delicacies and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of this waterfront market. The kids loved visiting the Vancouver Aquarium, where they could watch sea otters, jellyfish, and even take part in hands-on activities.

Our final stop was at the Capilano Suspension Bridge, where we crossed the swaying bridge high above the treetops and marveled at the lush rainforests below.

Tips for Road Trip Planning:

• Route Planning: Using an RV route planner was key to making sure we didn’t miss any must-see attractions. Be sure to plan your campground stops ahead of time, as many parks along the route can get busy during peak season.

• Booking Ahead: Many of the most popular family-friendly attractions in Banff and Jasper can have long lines, so it’s wise to book tickets for things like the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure and Banff Gondola in advance.

• Pack Smart: The weather can vary greatly, so bring layers! It can be warm in the cities but cooler in the mountains, especially at higher elevations like Lake Agnes and Miette Hot Springs.

• RV Essentials: Having a motorhome made the journey so much easier, especially when traveling with kids. We were able to stop wherever we pleased, cook meals on the road, and rest comfortably each night. Be sure your campervan has a well-stocked kitchen and enough space for everyone.