Buckle up, adventure seekers! Welcome to the ultimate guide to a Calgary to Kamloops RV road trip. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a road trip rookie, this scenic journey from the bustling city of Calgary to the serene beauty of Kamloops promises a superior road trip experience. The journey is packed with hidden gems, must-see sights, and plenty of quirky pit stops that make RV road-tripping so special. Let’s delve right in and start planning your ultimate Calgary to Kamloops trip, making sure your journey is as fun and memorable as possible. Let’s hit the road!
Outline of the Calgary to Kamloops RV Road Trip Route
The total distance from Calgary to Kamloops is approximately 628 kilometres (390 miles). The estimated total travel time, not including stops, is about 8-9 hours, depending on road conditions, traffic, and the number of stops you make along the way.
Planning out your route is essential for a smooth and hassle-free trip. Not only is it important to plan ahead to check road conditions, but you can also plan the best places for fuel and pit stops along the way. Here is an outlined route from Calgary to Kamloops:
Starting Point: Calgary, Alberta
- Starting Location: Downtown Calgary, Alberta
- Major Highway: Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1)
Leg 1: Calgary to Banff
- Distance: 127 kilometers (79 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours
- Route: Head west on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) from Calgary.
Leg 2: Banff to Golden
- Distance: 140 kilometers (87 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5-2 hours
- Route: Continue west on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1).
Leg 3: Golden to Revelstoke
- Distance: 148 kilometers (92 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 2 hours
- Route: Stay on Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) heading west.
Leg 4: Revelstoke to Salmon Arm
- Distance: 105 kilometers (65 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours
- Route: Continue on Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) heading west.
Leg 5: Salmon Arm to Kamloops
- Distance: 108 kilometres (67 miles)
- Estimated Travel Time: 1.5 hours
- Route: Continue west on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1).
The Best Time For a Calgary to Kamloops Road Trip
The best time to embark on a road trip from Calgary to Kamloops is during late spring to early fall (May to September). This period offers the most pleasant weather, with warm temperatures perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The stunning landscapes along the route, including national parks and scenic lakes, are at their most vibrant, and the roads are clear of winter hazards. Additionally, this timeframe aligns with various local festivals and events, adding an extra layer of fun to your adventure.
However, if you go on the Calgary to Kamloops road trip during the colder months from October to April, there are winter activities to look forward to. You can stop off at some of Canada’s biggest ski resorts like Sun Peaks Resort near Kamloops, Lake Louise, and Revelstoke Mountain Resort. These world-renowned resorts offer some of North America’s best ski and snowboarding conditions.
Top Spots Along The Way
Starting Point: Calgary
Before hitting the road from Calgary to Kamloops, take some time to explore the vibrant city of Calgary. Start your adventure at the iconic Calgary Tower for panoramic views of the city and the majestic Rocky Mountains. Stroll through the bustling streets of downtown to do some shopping and dine out at one of the many restaurants and cafes along Stephen Avenue.
The Calgary Zoo is not to be missed, home to an array of wildlife and lush botanical gardens. For a taste of culture, head to the Glenbow Museum, which showcases local history and art. If you’re visiting in July, the Calgary Stampede, known as “The Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth,” is a must-see event with thrilling rodeo action and lively entertainment.
Finally, unwind in Prince’s Island Park, a tranquil oasis perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk along the Bow River before hitting to road to Kamloops. Calgary’s dynamic blend of urban attractions and natural beauty sets the perfect tone for your epic road trip ahead.
Next Stop – Banff
Welcome to one of Canada’s most iconic towns, Banff! Begin your exploration with a scenic ride on the Banff Gondola to the summit of Sulphur Mountain, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy. Next, you must pay a visit to the famous Banff Springs Hotel, a castle straight out of a fairytale; especially if you see it in Winter covered in snow.
Fun Fact: Marilyn Monroe stayed in the Banff Springs Hotel while filming the 1954 film ‘River of No Return’.
No trip to the Rockies is complete without a trip to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to admire the piercing turquoise waters and explore the hiking trails nearby. We highly recommend leaving your RV in Banff and taking transit and booking shuttles there to avoid the parking lot craziness. After your hike, soak your muscles in the Banff Upper Hot Springs, where you can unwind while surrounded by mountain vistas. After, wander through the charming streets of Banff town, filled with unique shops, cozy cafes, and delightful restaurants. For a dose of culture, visit the Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity, offering a variety of performances and exhibits.
Onwards to Golden
Just a scenic 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Banff, the charming town of Golden is your next stop on the Calgary to Kamloops road trip. Tucked between the Rocky Mountains and Columbia Mountains, Golden is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. Start with a visit to the Kicking Horse Pedestrian Bridge, the longest-covered pedestrian bridge in Canada, offering picturesque views of the Kicking Horse River.
If you’re a thrill-seeker, Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is the place to be, with some of the best skiing and mountain biking trails in the region. For a more relaxed pace, take a scenic gondola ride up the mountain for breathtaking vistas and meet the resident grizzly bear ‘Boo’ at the Grizzly Bear Refuge.
Wrap up your visit with a leisurely stroll or hike around Reflection Lake, where the serene waters perfectly mirror the surrounding peaks. Golden’s blend of adventure and tranquillity makes it a memorable pit stop on your journey.
Travel Tip: There are also many other worthy stops on route to Golden. Field’s Emerald Lake, the Spiral Tunnels, and Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park stand out.
Welcome to Revelstoke
Revelstoke, a mountain gem just a 2-hour drive from Golden, is an absolute must-visit on your Calgary to Kamloops road trip. Start your adventure at Revelstoke Mountain Resort, where you can ride the gondola for stunning alpine views or tackle the world-class winter sports conditions or hiking and biking trails.
For history buffs, the Revelstoke Railway Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich railway heritage. Nature lovers should not miss a drive up the Meadows in the Sky Parkway in Mount Revelstoke National Park, where you’ll be greeted by vibrant wildflowers and panoramic vistas.
Park up your RV next to Lake Revelstoke and go for a cooling dip after your explorations. End your day by exploring the charming downtown area, filled with eclectic shops, cozy cafes, and delightful local eateries. Revelstoke’s blend of exhilarating outdoor activities and laid-back mountain town charm makes it a highlight along your road trip.
Salmon Arm
Salmon Arm, located on the shores of Shuswap Lake, is a picturesque stop right before your final destination, Kamloops. This charming town offers an array of activities for all types of travellers. Begin with a visit to the Salmon Arm Wharf, the longest wooden wharf in North America, perfect for a leisurely stroll with stunning lake views.
Fun Fact: Salmon Arm takes its name from its place along Shuswap Lake. The lake has four “arms”: Shuswap Arm in the west, Seymour Arm in the north, Anstey Arm in the northeast, and Salmon Arm in the south, named after the large runs of salmon that run up the creeks that empty into the lake.
If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss out on a refreshing swim or a paddleboarding session on the calm waters of Shuswap Lake. You can also rent jet skis and if you’re planning on staying, houseboats are incredibly popular to rent to explore the lake’s many secluded coves and beaches.
Take some time to explore the quaint downtown area, where you’ll find unique shops, local eateries, and delightful art galleries. Wrap up your visit with a stop at the family-friendly DeMille’s Farm Market for fresh produce and homemade goodies.
You’ve Reached Kamloops!
As you reach the vibrant city of Kamloops, the final destination of your road trip from Calgary, you’ll find a wealth of activities, sights to explore and great accommodation options. Known as the “Tournament Capital of Canada,” Kamloops is an excellent spot for sports enthusiasts, with numerous golf courses as well as parks and trails for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
Riverside Park, located along the Thompson River, is perfect for a relaxing picnic or a stroll along the waterfront. To get out on the water, we recommend fishing, paddleboarding, canoeing, or kayaking on one of the city’s nearby lakes and rivers. For more outdoor adventure, head to Kenna Cartwright Park, which boasts extensive hiking and biking trails with panoramic views of the city.
For a taste of local culture, visit the Kamloops Art Gallery or explore the historic downtown area with its charming shops and restaurants. Wine lovers will appreciate the numerous wineries in the Thompson Valley, offering tastings and tours with stunning vineyard views. Local craft breweries and cideries are also abundant.
For those craving comfort food after a successful journey, Kamloops has some great dining options like Hello Toast, Red Beard Cafe, and The Noble Pig for some delicious grub.
The BC Wildlife Park in Kamloops is an absolute must-visit. The Park houses an incredible amount of animals and offers the opportunity to learn about local conservation efforts. With its mix of urban amenities, natural beauty, and unique attractions Kamloops is the perfect end to your epic RV road trip.
Hit The Road!
And there you have it—your ultimate Calgary to Kamloops RV road trip adventure, packed with breathtaking sights, charming stops, and endless fun! Whether you’ve been captivated by mountain views, hiked to great heights, or learned some history along the way, this journey offers memories to last a lifetime. Before you head home, if time allows, we highly recommend making your trip a full loop by taking the scenic Jasper route on your return. This detour allows you to explore the stunning landscapes of the Lower North Thompson Valley and the awe-inspiring vistas of Wells Gray Provincial Park. It’s a perfect way to round off an already unforgettable journey. Don’t forget to check out our nearby accommodation options or camping resorts where you can park your RV before you embark on this additional adventure. Ready to hit the road? Your epic adventure from Calgary to Kamloops—and potentially through Jasper and Wells Gray—awaits!
Here are some resources to help you plan:
