Canadian Rockies by RV: Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper

Quick summary: The Canadian Rockies are the ultimate RV road trip from Vancouver, with Banff around 850 km to the east. The route passes Revelstoke and Glacier national parks, then reaches Yoho, Lake Louise and Banff. From Lake Louise, the Icefields Parkway runs north past glaciers and turquoise lakes to Jasper. National park campgrounds and a park pass are essentials, and many travelers book a one-way RV rental to Calgary.

At a glance
Vancouver to Banff	Around 850 km, usually over 2 or more days
Calgary to Banff	Around 1.5 hours
Highlights	Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Icefields Parkway, Jasper
Park pass	Required in national parks
Campgrounds	Book early for summer
Tours	Canadian Rockies tours

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Which parks and places should you see?

Place	Why go
Revelstoke and Glacier	Mountain parks on the Trans-Canada
Yoho	Emerald Lake and Takakkaw Falls
Lake Louise	Iconic lake and hiking trails
Banff	Mountain town, hot springs, Bow Valley Parkway
Icefields Parkway	Glaciers and lakes between Lake Louise and Jasper
Jasper	Maligne Canyon, quieter campgrounds

Can an RV reach Lake Louise and Moraine Lake?

Lake Louise has large-vehicle parking, though it fills early. Access to Moraine Lake has been restricted to shuttles and tours, so check current rules. Leaving the RV at a campground and using shuttles is often easier.

Where can you stay in the Rockies?

At large national park campgrounds near Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper, plus private campgrounds outside the parks. Summer sites book out quickly when reservations open.

What about wildlife and winter?

Elk, bears and bighorn sheep are often near roads. Never feed or approach them. Winter tires are required in some national parks in the colder months, and the Icefields Parkway has no fuel for long stretches in winter.

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Frequently Asked Questions