Calgary in Alberta and Vancouver in British Columbia are the key international gateway cities to the Canadian Rocky Mountains, which sit astride the two provinces. For an instant hit of big country vistas, start in Calgary and drive west, and you’ll be in the deep Rockies within 45 minutes. That ‘wow’ moment takes much longer from Vancouver or Edmonton, Alberta’s other gateway city.
xThe classic trip
Start in Alberta’sand allow time to visit River Valley, Canada’s largest urban park. Heading west, the drive to the mountains takes about three hours as you transition from the prairies to the foothills and finally enter Spend two nights in the area — you’ll see wildlife throughout most of the year. Jasper has half as many hotels as Banff, so book ahead and shop around for deals. Next, drive south on Highway 93 to taking in the and the highest in Canada.
