1,298 km (806.5 mi)
Experience the untamed wilderness of the North Thompson Valley, en route to the Canadian Rockies.
From Highway 97 in Kamloops, head north on Highway 5, the Yellowhead Highway, toward Valemount. The first leg of the journey is approximately 320 km (200 mi), following the scenic North Thompson River through the heart of British Columbia's Interior.
Along the way, make time to explore Sun Peaks, Canada's second-largest ski resort and a premier destination for alpine hiking and mountain biking in the summer. Continue north through Barriere, where you'll discover cowboy country, marvel at the waterfalls of Wells Gray Provincial Park, experience the lush interior rainforest around Blue River, and admire the towering mountain scenery surrounding Valemount.
From Valemount, continue north toward Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. At the junction of Highways 5, 16, and 93, you'll arrive in Jasper, Alberta. From here, begin the spectacular 232 km (144 mi) drive south along Highway 93, the world-renowned Columbia Icefields Parkway.
The Columbia Icefields Parkway winds through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, passing glaciers, turquoise lakes, and dramatic mountain peaks before arriving in the iconic village of Lake Louise.
After exploring Lake Louise, take a short 56.8 km (35.3 mi) drive east to Banff. You’ll be surrounded by soaring mountain peaks and large forests, with endless opportunities to explore.
Once you’ve enjoyed the sites of Banff, retrace your steps west back to Lake Louise along the Trans Canada Highway (Highway 1) for roughly 60km (37 mi). Stay on Trans Canada Highway traveling west for 139 km (86.3 mi) until you’ve passed the town of Revelstoke, and then remain on Highway 1 for another 214 km (133 mi) back to Kamloops, enjoying the many attractions along the way.
Not to be Missed
Helmcken Falls
is the fourth largest waterfall in Canada and is located within Wells Gray Provincial Park. Make it a waterfall trip and check out Dawson Falls, Moul Falls and Spahats Creek Falls for impressive views.
Berg Lake Trail
is a backcountry hiking trail in Mount Robson Provincial Park. It spans three biogeoclimatic zones, gaining almost 800 metres (2,625 feet) in less than 25 km (15.5 mi). Pro Tip: Experience it with a heli-tour.
Athabasca Glacier
in Jasper National Park you can experience the power of ice moving below you as you walk on the most visited glacier in North America.
Annual Events You Don’t Want to Miss
Alpine Blossom Festival (Sun Peaks, July)
The Robson Valley Music Festival (Valmont, August)
North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo (Barriere, Labour Day Weekend - September)
Outdoor Adventure
Regional Information
