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🇨🇦 From Cobblestones to Peaks: A 30-Day RV Adventure from Montreal to Edmonton
Canada’s vast landscapes beg to be explored, and what better way to experience it all than by embarking on a motorhome adventure from the historic streets of Montreal to the Rocky Mountain gateway of Edmonton? Our 30-day road trip was more than a vacation—it was a journey through culture, nature, and memory-making with our family aboard a well-outfitted campervan.
This cross-country route was designed using a Montreal to Edmonton camper route planner, carefully weaving together iconic sites, natural wonders, and family-friendly attractions. Whether you're using a spacious motorhome, a nimble campervan, or a rugged RV, road trip planning is key—especially when crossing multiple provinces with different terrain, climates, and attractions.
From Montreal to the Ottawa Valley
We kicked off our adventure with a deep dive into history and green spaces. The Old Montreal Walking Tour set the tone with cobblestone streets and tales from centuries past. The kids loved wandering the paths at the Montreal Botanical Garden, and we made our first overnight stay just outside the city in a peaceful wooded campground—perfect for RVs.
Next up: Canada Aviation and Space Museum in Ottawa, a must for curious young minds and aspiring astronauts. If you're road tripping with kids in a motorhome, we recommend stopping in the Ottawa Valley for a dose of adventure—OWL Rafting offers unforgettable river fun.
Through Ontario’s Big Lakes and Northern Forests
Driving west, the landscapes shift from city skylines to sprawling lakes and pine forests. We stopped at Ripley’s Aquarium of Canada in Toronto, a great indoor break before heading north. A visit to Muskoka Lakes Farm & Winery introduced us to cranberry harvesting and fresh Ontario flavors.
Science North in Sudbury is a hands-on science center with exhibits kids can crawl through, and the nearby Onaping Falls offered our first real hike and waterfall views of the trip.
Don’t miss the Art Gallery of Algoma in Sault Ste. Marie—a chance to stretch your legs and take in Canadian artwork before crossing into Northwestern Ontario.
Lake Superior to the Prairies
As we hugged the shores of Lake Superior, Fort William Historical Park brought fur-trading history to life, while Kakabeka Falls left us in awe. RV-friendly provincial parks are easy to find in this region, many with full hookups and lakeside views.
In Thunder Bay, we stopped by Whispered Dreams Ranch, a charming farm where the kids got to meet and feed the animals.
Crossing into Manitoba, Tinkertown Amusements outside Winnipeg gave the kids a break from long driving days, and Westman Reptile Gardens offered a look at creatures from all over the world—perfect for your animal lovers on board.
For a nostalgic stop, the Manitoba Antique Automobile Museum is a roadside gem, filled with rare and vintage vehicles that even the youngest travelers found fascinating.
Across the Prairies to the Canadian Rockies
As you enter Saskatchewan, the roads straighten, the skies widen, and the horizon stretches endlessly. We recommend using a detailed RV road trip planner to map out fuel stops and overnight RV parks here, as distances can be long.
RCMP Heritage Centre in Regina offered a fascinating look at Canada’s law enforcement history, and in Cypress Hills, we discovered treetop ziplining with Treeosix Adventure Parks—perfect for older kids and teens.
Heading west, we tackled the Badlands Trail and took in panoramic views at Horseshoe Canyon, before arriving in Calgary for some urban excitement and a visit to the Calgary Tower.
Into the Rockies
From Calgary, the scenery quickly escalates into towering peaks and turquoise lakes. We parked our motorhome in Banff and explored the town on bikes rented from Bike Banff Rentals & Tours. Highlights included the natural hot springs at Cave and Basin National Historic Site, and the jaw-dropping drive along Alberta Highway 93, also known as the Icefields Parkway.
No trip to the Rockies is complete without the Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure, where you ride a special vehicle onto the glacier itself—don’t forget warm layers, even in summer!
In Jasper, the Jasper SkyTram gave us stunning mountain views, and we soaked in Miette Hot Springs afterward. RV parks fill up quickly in this area, so plan ahead using a reliable camper route planner or reservation service.
🎡 Wrapping Up in Edmonton
As our journey came to a close, we visited the Galloway Station Museum for a final dose of regional history before arriving in Edmonton. The kids (and adults) were thrilled to finish at West Edmonton Mall, one of the largest malls in the world—with indoor amusement parks, waterslides, and more. It was the perfect way to celebrate the end of our month-long family motorhome adventure.
Tips for How to Plan a Motorhome Trip in Canada from Montreal to Edmonton
Use a route planner: RV-specific apps and websites like Campendium or RV Life Trip Wizard help find campsites, dump stations, and fuel.
Reserve early: Campgrounds near national parks fill up quickly—especially in summer.
Pack for all weather: From warm Montreal afternoons to chilly mountain nights.
Plan rest days: Use sites like camper route planner Canada to balance driving days with relaxing stops.
Know your rig: Whether you’re driving a compact campervan or a large motorhome, make sure you're comfortable navigating both city streets and mountain passes.
Final Thoughts
A campervan journey across Canada offers more than scenery—it’s a way to experience the heart of the country. With good planning and a spirit of adventure, a Montreal to Edmonton road trip becomes a family memory you’ll treasure forever.