Revelstoke To Banff Road Trip – 15 Amazing Stops! [2025]

The Highway 1 is one of the most scenic highways in Canada, especially the section from Revelstoke to Banff. To drive this route without stopping takes approximately 3 hours, but the views and attractions along the way will make you want to stop multiple times!

I have done this drive on many occasions when coming from Whistler to Banff, and I recommend spending a day or two exploring both Revelstoke and Golden along the way.

Revelstoke is a really good halfway point to stop if you are coming from Vancouver to Banff. It’s like a smaller lesser-known version of Whistler. Along this route you’ll be surrounded by the Selkirk, Monashee, and Purcell mountain ranges, as well as the famed Canadian Rockies.

This road trip can be taken in both summer and winter, although I recommend the summer season. In winter, the road can be treacherous due to snow and ice, but it offers a chance to experience some of the best ski resorts in Canada.

In summer, this route is even more epic. There are plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and relaxing in some of the many lakes in Banff.

I’ve put together this comprehensive guide that highlights all the best stops and places to stay on the route from Revelstoke to Banff to help you plan the ultimate road trip!

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Revelstoke To Banff Distance

The distance between Revelstoke and Banff is approximately 282 kilometres or 175 miles via Highway 1. This stretch of road winds through some of Canada’s most spectacular landscapes, making every kilometre an opportunity to experience breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures.

In winter, your vehicle must have winter or all-weather tires, as roads in Canada can be icy. In summer, keep an eye out for wildlife, such as deer, elk, and bears, which might appear on the highway.

Important: There are some roadworks happening to widen the highway from Kamloops to Golden. While work is mostly done, you may experience some delays. Find more information about the roadworks here.

Best Stops On The Drive From Revelstoke To Banff

1. Revelstoke

Revelstoke is a small town with a big heart, nestled between the Selkirk and Monashee mountain ranges in British Columbia, Canada. It’s renowned for its adventurous spirit and natural beauty, making it an essential stop on the Highway 1 road trip from Revelstoke to Banff.

There is plenty to do in Revelstoke, such as mountain biking, hiking, and, in winter, some of the best powder skiing in North America at Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Did you know Revelstoke Mountain Ski Resort has North America’s longest descent? If you’re visiting in winter, you can’t miss out on skiing!

The gondola at Revelstoke Mountain Resort is the easiest way to see some of the best views in Revelstoke without hiking. There are two gondolas; the second takes you to breathtaking views of the valley. When you’re done admiring the views, take a ride on the Pipe Mountain Coaster.

If you’re up for an adrenaline rush that’ll make your road trip truly unforgettable, you’ve got to try a white water rafting tour on the Illecillewaet River. This experience isn’t just about getting soaked—it’s a ride through the stunning landscapes of British Columbia, all while navigating thrilling rapids.

Discover the town’s charming downtown area, where historic buildings house unique shops and cozy cafés. Revelstoke’s downtown is a designated Heritage District, boasting well-preserved buildings that date back to the early 1900s.

Take time to appreciate the architectural details of structures that have stood the test of time, including the Revelstoke City Hall, built in 1939, and the beautifully restored Roxy Theatre, offering a window into the entertainment of yesteryears.

Where To Stay In Revelstoke

Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke: As Revelstoke’s sole five-star hotel, the Sutton Place Hotel is ideal for a luxury vacation splurge! The hotel features an outdoor pool for summer use, but it really stands out in winter. Positioned at the centre of the mountain resort, it offers unmatched access to the skiing slopes.

Grizz Hotel Revelstoke: For a more affordable option, you can’t go wrong with the Grizz Hotel. I stayed here my first time visiting Revelstoke and loved every minute! The rooms are sooo spacious and it’s located just minutes away from downtown Revelstoke. The Grizz offers comfortable rooms at an affordable price. Plus, it’s right next to a great restaurant and bar.

2. Mount Revelstoke National Park

Mount Revelstoke National Park is a highlight of the Revelstoke to Banff road trip not to be missed. This unique national park gives you the chance to drive almost to the summit of a mountain, an opportunity rare in Canadian national parks.

The park is home to the Meadows in the Sky Parkway, a winding road that brings you through lush mountain landscapes, stunning vistas and a variety of hiking trails that lead through subalpine wildflower meadows.

There are several viewpoints that you can stop at that showcase fantastic views of Revelstoke town and the Columbia and Monashee Mountains. Most viewpoints have a few picnic tables and places to sit to enjoy these views.

Once you reach the summit, there are tons of hiking trails from easy to difficult that you can explore. A relatively easy hike suitable for most people is the hike to the Fire Lookout, covering 2.5 kilometres return from the parking lot, with an 100-metre elevation gain.

If you want to see the fire tower, but you don’t want to do the entire hike, you can take a shuttle from the parking lot to the summit. From there, it’s a short 500 metres hike with minimal elevation. The Fire Lookout was constructed in 1927 and was originally used for spotting forest fires. Today, it functions as an interpretive centre operated by Parks Canada.

One of the things I love about the summit of Mount Revelstoke is that even if you don’t want to hike there are some great views a short walk from the parking lot. The Panorama Point viewpoint is my top recommendation for your visit!

Be sure to bring a jacket, as it can get quite windy at the top!

3. Skunk Cabbage Boardwalk Trail

Skunk Cabbage?? Yes, Skunk Cabbage! I first learned about skunk cabbages not long after I moved to Canada, and the name still makes me laugh. For those who don’t know a Skunk Cabbage is a plant that grows in wetlands and smells like, you guessed it, skunk! Despite its smell, I actually think they are quite beautiful.

The Skunk Cabbage Boardwalk Trail is a short yet beautiful 1 km loop trail that meanders through the forest of Mount Revelstoke National Park. The boardwalk takes you through lush wetlands, showcasing the vibrant yellow skunk cabbage for which it is named.

The best time to visit this trail is during late spring and early summer when the skunk cabbage is in full bloom. Despite its strong smell, which isn’t as bad as the name implies, it attracts diverse wildlife, making it a great spot for seeing animals in their natural surroundings.

What makes the Skunk Cabbage Boardwalk Trail interesting, aside from the unique plant life, are the educational signs along the path that provide valuable insights into the local ecosystem, flora, and fauna.

4. Canyon Hot Springs Resort

Open from June to September, the Canyon Hot Springs are the closest hot springs to Revelstoke, and while not the best you can find in the area – entry is relatively cheap!

The resort features two pools filled with mineral-rich water from the Albert Canyon. the smaller pool is the hotter of the two, with the larger pool being perfect for swimming.

Getting to Canyon hot springs is around a 20-minute drive from Revelstoke town. You’ll by pass them just after Mount Revelstoke, making it a great way to rejuvenate after a hike! Remember, access to the hot springs is free if you’re staying in a cabin at the resort.

5. Glacier National Park of Canada

Yes – there’s a Glacier National Park in Canada! And yes, it deserves your attention. Many people overlook Glacier National Park in favour of nearby Yoho (which is amazing, so I get it) but you will be missing out on SO much if you just pass through without stopping.

Covering over 1,349 square kilometres of rugged mountain landscapes in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, this national park is is renowned for its ancient forests, spectacular glaciers, and an abundance of wildlife.

Glacier National Park is incredibly accessible, as you have no choice but to drive through on your way from Revelstoke to Banff! In fact many of the trails and sights are accessed from the highway.

There are a good mix of hikes in Glacier National Park from easy to difficult. Don’t miss Bear Creek Falls, a short hike featuring beautiful waterfall views that only takes about 15-20 minutes.

6. Rogers Pass National Historic Site

One of my favourite stops along this route is at Rogers Pass National Historic Site, which commemorates the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway through the rugged Selkirk Mountains in the late 1800s. Here you can explore exhibits and learn about the incredible engineering feats that made this railway possible, as well as its impact on Canada’s development.

Trust me when I say, you will know when you have reached Roger’s Pass. If the mountains get suuuppper tall out of nowhere – that’s Roger’s Pass! I’m not sure how it always takes me by surprise having done this route a few times, but it always makes me say “Wow!!”.

Located in Glacier National Park, this area is known for its stunning scenery, including glaciers and towering peaks. But it’s not just history that makes this area worth a stop – in winter, Rogers Pass is a popular destination for backcountry skiing and snowshoeing, while summer brings opportunities for hiking and camping.

The Great Glacier Trail is a popular hike that takes you to the Illecillewaet Glacier – although it has receded substantially the trail is still incredibly beautiful!

This area is truly stunning, and I highly recommend making a stop here to stare at these massive mountain peaks and get some photos.

7. Golden

Golden is often overlooked for nearby Yoho and Banff National Parks, but it is more than worth your attention. Golden is a charming mountain town located at the confluence of the Columbia and Kicking Horse Rivers, offering an abundance of outdoor activities.

One of the best things about Golden is its location. The town of Golden is within close proximity to 4 different national parks – Glacier, Kootenay, Yoho and Banff. I spent a few nights exploring Golden for my recent trip to Lake O’Hara and discovered just how underrated this place is!

Whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse river is one of the best things to do in Golden. With its grade 3-4 rapids, it is one of Canada’s top rafting destinations. You can join various tour groups, like this full-day tour which includes all necessary equipment, and an expert guide.

Golden is also known as a hot spot for mountain biking, but it also boasts one of the top ski resorts in Canada – Kicking Horse! With 120 runs, incredible backcountry skiing and the Golden Eagle Express Gondola, it’s a must-visit for any winter sports enthusiast. But even if you’re not into skiing or snowboarding, the views from the top of the mountain are worth taking a gondola ride for!

But beyond its outdoor activities, Golden is also home to a thriving arts and culture scene. The town has a strong heritage, as it was once a major hub for the Canadian Pacific Railway. Today, you can explore this history and more at the Golden Museum or take in live music and performances at the Golden Civic Centre.

The Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge is one of the longest freestanding timber frame bridges in Canada and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding mountains. From here, you can also take a leisurely walk or scenic bike ride along the Rotary Trails that follow the riverbanks.

The Golden Skybridge is Canada’s highest suspension bridge, offering unparalleled views from 426 feet above a canyon and the rushing waters of the Kicking Horse River. The bridge is high – and I mean high!

Just be aware, that if you have a big fear of heights this may not be for you. I felt uneasy on this bridge but I have experienced many suspension bridges, such as Lynn Canyon and Capilano, and am used to the swinging feeling.

Beyond just crossing the bridge, the site also features a variety of activities including an expansive network of walking trails, a treetop adventure course, and a zip line that offers a thrilling ride across the canyon. Book your ticket to the Golden Skybridge online in advance!

Where To Stay In Golden

Basecamp Lodge Golden: Basecamp Lodge is a great place to stay, located by the river on the north side of Golden, just a 2-3 minute drive to downtown from the lodge. You have a choice of different room types, there’s a wood-burning fireplace in the lobby, and a coffee bar on site. The location is perfect for exploring the outdoors. With mountains and nature right outside, Basecamp Lodge is an ideal base for spending a few nights in Golden, BC.

Days Inn By Wyndham Golden: Located about 5 minutes east of Golden, the Days Inn Golden offers stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains. I stayed here during my recent stay to Golden and loved the quieter area it’s located in. The rooms are well-equipped and come with complimentary breakfast.

8. Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park (along with Glacier National Park) was the second National Park of Canada created in 1886. Yoho is a Cree expression of awe and amazement, and it certainly lives up to its name.

Yoho National Park is often paired with a trip to Banff because of their close proximity to one another. But it’s actually located in British Columbia, just before you reach the Alberta Border.

I recently spent a fair bit of time in Yoho National Park and I think its beauty rivals that of Banff. The park is full of stunning natural wonders, from towering waterfalls to pristine lakes and rugged mountains.

If you are planning a few days in Yoho National Park, I highly recommend exploring Lake O’Hara. This area requires bus reservations for transportation to and from the lake. The alternative is hiking into the area, it’s a long 11km road so I personally do not recommend it.

If you have the time stop into the town of Field, BC located right near the entrance to Yoho National Park. It’s such a cute mountain town and one of my favourites on this route – PLUS there is an amazing café called Truffle Pigs that you MUST visit for some great food!

9. Wapta Falls

Wapta Falls is a stunning waterfall that cascades down 30 metres and spans over 150 metres wide, making it one of the largest waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies.

The hike to Wapta Falls is relatively easy with a distance of 2 kilometres, and takes you through beautiful forests before arriving at the viewing area. During the winter, the falls freeze over, creating an incredible ice spectacle that is worth seeing.

Wapta Falls is easily accessible from the highway and clearly signposted.

10. Takakkaw Falls

Located in Yoho National Park, Takakkaw Falls is one of the absolute best things to do in Yoho National Park. It’s one of Canada’s highest waterfalls, standing at an impressive height of 302 metres. The name “Takakkaw” means “magnificent” in the Cree language, and it certainly lives up to its name.

The Yoho Valley Road which leads to Takakkaw Falls is paved the whole way, but it is very steep and windy in sections. When you reach the parking lot, the trailhead to the falls is easy to spot and the area is well sign-posted.

The trail leading to Takakkaw Falls is paved the entire way and is super easy for all visitors. When you reach the base of the falls, you will be greeted with a powerful mist and the sight of the falls thundering over the cliff – it’s truly a sight to behold.

The area around Takakkaw Falls is also great for hiking, with many trails leading to stunning mountain views and alpine lakes. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even hike up to Laughing Falls, a smaller but equally beautiful waterfall located just above Takakkaw Falls.

11. Emerald Lake

One of the most picturesque spots in Yoho National Park is Emerald Lake, a stunning glacial lake surrounded by towering peaks and dense forests. The vibrant blue colour of the water comes from rock flour, a fine sediment created by glacial erosion.

The most popular activity at Emerald Lake is canoeing. The canoe rentals are available from the Boathouse and at $90 CAD per hour it is much cheaper than nearby Lake Louise. You can also explore the lake on foot by taking the 5.2 km loop trail around its perimeter.

I’ve been to Emerald lake many times and it never fails to take my breath away. If you want to stay and explore more of this area, I recommend a stay at the Emerald Lake Lodge. This lodge is located right on the lake and offers cozy cabins and rooms. I stayed here a few years ago and it was so tranquil! You can check out my full review of Emerald Lake Lodge for more information.

Before you leave Emerald Lake, make a stop at Natural Bridge, a natural rock formation that has been carved out by the powerful flow of the Kicking Horse River.

12. Lake Louise

The drive from Revelstoke to Banff would not be complete without a stop at Lake Louise. Although Lake Louise is the busiest lake in Banff National Park – it sure is worth it!

I recommend booking a hotel and staying the night in Lake Louise – this way you can watch the sunrise at the lake, which I highly recommend! It’s also a good idea if you want to start an early hike like the Big Beehive, or Devil’s Thumb.

If you’re not up for a big hike, you can make your way to the Lake Agnes Tea House where they feature over 100 teas to choose from. I also recommend getting the homemade tea cakes which are SO good! And if tea isn’t your thing, they also offer a homemade lemonade which is super refreshing on a warm day.

Canoeing is one of the most iconic things to do in Lake Louise, but it does come with a high price tag at $145 CAD + GST per hour. However, if you are visiting for the first time, it is a super fun activity! I have always wanted to canoe on Lake Louise so I did so on my first visit. You can also bring your own canoes and paddle boards but just remember it’s mandatory to submit your Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) permit prior.

Parking at Lake Louise costs $36.75 CAD per vehicle as of 2024.

Where To Stay In Lake Louise

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: If budget is not a deciding factor, I would always choose to stay at the Fairmont Chateau in Lake Louise! This hotel is iconic in the Canadian Rockies and is known for its stunning location right on the shores of Lake Louise. The hotel offers luxurious rooms, a variety of dining options, and access to outdoor activities such as canoeing and hiking. I absolutely loved my stay here and my experience was nothing short of magical – check out my full review here.

Mountaineer Lodge: For a more affordable option, the Mountaineer Lodge is 10 minutes from Lake Louise. I stayed two nights here on a recent trip and loved the cozy mountain lodge feel. The rooms were spacious and clean with super comfy beds, and the staff were so friendly and helpful. The lodge also has a hot tub for guests to enjoy after a day of exploring the area.

Lake Louise Inn: I have never stayed at the Lake Louise Inn myself, but I have visited the hotel on several occasions as they have the BEST restaurants. From my experience the few times I’ve visited, this looks like an amazing place to stay in Lake Louise. The Lake Louise Inn is a great budget option, with cozy rooms, an indoor pool, and a variety of dining options on site. Plus, you can’t beat the location – it’s just a 5-minute drive from Lake Louise Village and the ski resort!

13. Moraine Lake

If you thought Lake Louise was beautiful, wait until you see Moraine Lake! This stunning glacial lake is often featured on postcards and travel magazines, and it’s not hard to see why. The breathtaking turquoise water and view of the Valley of the Ten Peaks make Moraine Lake one of the best things to do in Banff in summer.

To get the best view of Moraine Lake, I recommend hiking up the Rockpile Trail for a panoramic view of the lake from above. You can also rent a canoe to explore the lake or hike to the Larch Valley for even more incredible views.

As of 2023 Parks Canada has closed the Moraine Lake Road to personal vehicles, this means that you will longer be able to drive your own car directly to the lake. But the good news is there are more than enough alternative options!

You can book the Parks Canada park & ride which picks up from the Ski Louise parking lot in advance of your trip. You will also get access to the “Lake Connector” shuttle which will take you to Lake Louise and back to Moraine Lake.

If you are visiting Banff without a car, the Roam transit busses also offer regular service to Lake Louise. If you purchase a Super Pass then you also get access to the Lake Connector shuttle.

If you want to experience sunrise at Moraine Lake (and I HIGHLY recommend it) then you’ll need to book with a tour company. This shuttle leaves from the town of Lake Louise with the earliest arrival being 4:30am. Alternatively if you are staying in Banff, this tour includes sunrise at Moraine Lake with a visit to Lake Louise afterwards.

14. Bow Valley Parkway & Johnston Canyon

The Bow Valley Parkway is a scenic drive that runs parallel to Highway 1 and is my preferred way of getting from Lake Louise to Banff. The Bow Valley Parkway is a great alternative to driving on Highway 1 if you want a more scenic route.

Along the way, you can also make a stop at Johnston Canyon, where a series of catwalks and bridges take you through the canyon and past beautiful waterfalls.

The trail to Johnston Canyon is relatively easy and suitable for all ages. I recommend going early in the morning to beat the crowds. The hike to the lower falls is 1.2 km one way and the hike to the upper falls is an additional 1.6 km each way.

In the winter the waterfalls freeze over and become a popular spot for ice climbing. You can also take a guided ice walk tour where you’ll be supplied with all the appropriate gear and dedicated guide.

There are many other stops along the Bow Valley Parkway, including the Castle Mountain Lookout and the Morant’s Curve viewpoint. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the parkway, including deer, elk, and bears. I’ve seen a group of elk and some big horned sheep along this road.

15. Banff

You have arrived in Banff! This charming town is the perfect base for exploring Banff National Park and offers a variety of accommodation, restaurants, and attractions. Banff is a year-round destination and there are plenty of things to do in the summer, winter, and fall.

Take a stroll down Banff Avenue to browse unique boutiques, souvenir shops, and art galleries. Grab a quintessential Canadian sweet treat from Beavertails, or get your popcorn fix at Mary’s Popcorn Shop. If you want the best souvenirs in Banff, head to Big Bear Trading Company – I absolutely love this store! They have everything from t-shirts, hoodies, and blankets, to hats and magnets!

But Banff Avenue isn’t just a great place to shop, it’s also one of the best photo spots in Banff. From the avenue you can see the most incredible views of Cascade Mountain towering over the town.

For incredible views of the town and surrounding mountains, take the Banff Gondola – you can book your tickets online in advance. If you’re looking for free things to do in Banff, hiking is the way to go. There are a bunch of easy hikes in Banff that are great for beginners, such as the Tunnel Mountain trail or the Hoodoos Trail.

If you happen to be visiting Banff on a rainy day, there are still plenty to do indoors! The Cave & Basin National Historic Site is an interactive museum that tells the story of how Banff National Park came to be. You can also visit the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, which showcases the history and culture of Banff and the surrounding area.

Don’t forget to stop by the famous Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel for a luxurious stay or just for a quick visit. The hotel is a National Historic Site and is a must-see for its stunning architecture and beautiful views. If you’re a foodie, I recommend booking the Eat The Castle food tour, where you’ll get to try the best dishes at four of the best restaurants within the hotel.

Where To Stay In Banff

Banff Park Lodge: The Banff Park Lodge is easily my favourite hotel in Banff. You can’t beat the location when it comes to this hotel. It is about a 2-minute walk to the main throng of Banff Avenue. The rooms are SO big which I absolutely loved. And one of the best parts is that the free shuttle for the Banff Gondola picks up right outside.

Moose Hotel & Suites: The Moose Hotel and Suites is situated on Banff Avenue but away from the busy central area. The hotel leans more towards a luxury feel rather than budget, with a fitness centre, a large indoor pool, and two outdoor hot pools on the rooftop. You can choose from standard hotel rooms or larger suites that offer extra space like sitting areas and small balconies.

Conclusion: Revelstoke To Banff Road Trip

I hope this comprehensive guide to exploring the road from Revelstoke to Banff has helped you to plan your own road trip! While there are so many other amazing places along the way, these are some of my personal favourites and I know you’ll love them too. If you are spending some time in Banff, I have a 4 day itinerary guide that features all the best spots to see.

If you do plan to extend your trip beyond Revelstoke, Yoho, Golden and Banff, I highly recommend driving the Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Jasper! You can check out my full Icefields Parkway guide for all the best stops, and my 4 days in Jasper itinerary to help you plan.