The Ultimate 2-Week RV Itinerary Through Western Canada (Day-by-Day Guide)

Planning a Western Canada RV road trip? You’re in the right place. This 2-week itinerary loops from Vancouver through Tofino, Whistler, Jasper, Banff, Revelstoke and the Okanagan Valley — combining epic scenery with practical stops.

Whether you’re a first-time RVer or looking for a scenic new route, this itinerary covers campgrounds, hikes, key attractions, and travel logistics — all with an efficient daily plan that fits into 16 days on the road.

Let’s dive into the best RV loop through British Columbia and Alberta — with coastal views, alpine lakes, and a few wine tastings to top it off.

Map of a 2-week RV route through Western Canada

Want to see what this trip looks like in action? Read our 2-week Canada RV adventure recap — complete with photos, stories, and what we’d do differently.

Begin your 2-week RV trip with a flexible start in Vancouver and Vancouver Island. This itinerary recommends renting a car for the first few days instead of taking an RV to Tofino. While RVs are allowed on BC Ferries, new RV drivers may find it easier to get used to the road with a smaller vehicle. Plus, it opens up lodging options like a stay at Middle Beach Lodge in Tofino — one of the most scenic coastal properties on Vancouver Island.

🏙️ Day 1 – Explore Vancouver on Foot or Bike

Stanley Park and Queen Elizabeth Park are perfect urban green spaces to begin your trip.

Spend your first day exploring Vancouver’s urban highlights. Suggested stops include Stanley Park (ideal for a bike loop), Canada Place, Gastown, and Queen Elizabeth Park. For accommodations, choose something central in downtown Vancouver to make walking or biking between locations easier.

🌊 Day 2 – Ferry to Nanaimo + Drive to Tofino

Catch a morning BC Ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo. The ride offers fantastic views of the Gulf Islands and takes about 1.5 hours. From Nanaimo, plan for a 3-hour drive to Tofino, stopping along the way at:

• Little Qualicum Falls – easy loop around scenic waterfalls
• Cathedral Grove – short walk among towering old-growth trees
• Wally Creek – quick pull-off with river and canyon views

Plan to arrive in Tofino by early evening. If staying at Middle Beach Lodge, opt for an ocean-view room for an unforgettable sunset.

🌲 Day 3 – Coastal Trails + Ucluelet

Explore the trails and beaches around Tofino and nearby Ucluelet.

Spend your full day on Vancouver Island exploring trails and beaches. Recommended stops:

• Cox Bay Lookout – short but steep hike to a coastal viewpoint
• Bomber Trail – forest hike to a WWII airplane wreck
• Lighthouse Loop in Ucluelet – easy coastal trail with rugged views

If weather permits, consider adding a whale-watching tour in Tofino or visiting one of the nearby beaches like Long Beach or Chesterman Beach for sunset.

🚗 Day 4 – Return to Vancouver

After breakfast, begin your drive back to Nanaimo and catch an afternoon ferry to Vancouver. If time allows, stop at any missed roadside attractions on the way. Once back in Vancouver, consider a walk through Granville Island for dinner and local shopping.

Overnight in Vancouver and prepare to pick up your RV rental the next morning to officially begin your road trip.

Pick up your RV in Vancouver and start the official road trip portion of your Western Canada itinerary. From here, you’ll follow the famous Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99), one of the most scenic routes in British Columbia. This stretch connects Vancouver to Whistler and beyond, offering mountain views, waterfalls, and easy day hikes.

🛣️ Day 5 – Vancouver to Whistler: Sea to Sky RV Highlights

• Sea to Sky Gondola – Panoramic views, sky bridges, and short forest trails (note: visibility can be poor in foggy weather)
• Shannon Falls – Easy walk to one of BC’s most photographed waterfalls
• Brandywine Falls – Short trail to a stunning canyon waterfall

Late-spring scenery at Joffre Lakes, a top hike on the Sea to Sky route.

Grocery stores and fuel are available in Squamish or Pemberton, so use this day to stock your RV before reaching Whistler. For camping, book ahead at Riverside Campground or Whistler Campground, both with full hookups.

🥾 Day 6 – Day Trip to Joffre Lakes

One of the most iconic trails in BC, the Joffre Lakes trail is a must for nature lovers. Expect turquoise lakes, alpine scenery, and a moderately challenging hike. Even in late May, the upper lakes may still be partially frozen, creating dramatic contrast in your photos.

Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot fills up quickly. The full hike takes around 4–5 hours round trip. Pack a lunch, water, and layers.

After the hike, head back to Whistler Village for a relaxing evening. Explore the pedestrian village, visit the Olympic rings, and grab dinner at one of the many casual restaurants. For RV-friendly dining, there’s parking near the village day lots.

Tip: Watch for wildlife at dusk around campgrounds and trailheads — this region is home to black bears, elk, and deer. Always follow Parks BC safety guidelines and keep your campsite clean.

Day 7 is a transition day, taking you from Whistler to Clearwater — the gateway to Wells Gray Provincial Park, known for its spectacular waterfalls and volcanic geology. While the drive is long, the scenery along Highway 99 and Highway 1 makes it worthwhile.

🚗 Scenic Stops En Route

• Seton Lake Lookout – Short hike with panoramic views of a turquoise lake and valley
• Kamloops – Best stop for groceries and fuel before heading north to Wells Gray

You may also pass through small towns like D'Arcy and Rayleigh — good for quick photo breaks and wildlife spotting. Keep snacks ready, as services are limited along parts of this route.

A quick but rewarding viewpoint near Seton Lake along Highway 99.

🏕️ Where to Stay in Clearwater

Dutch Lake Resort is a popular full-service campground right on the water, with level pull-in sites and easy access to downtown Clearwater. It’s also well positioned for afternoon waterfall chasing inside Wells Gray.

🌊 Must-See: Spahats Falls

If you're short on time or arriving late in the day, head directly to Spahats Falls, just 10 minutes from town. This dramatic canyon waterfall is easily accessible and offers a great taste of the park’s scenery without requiring a long hike.

Bonus tip: If you have a full day in Clearwater, consider adding Helmcken Falls or Dawson Falls to your itinerary for a more complete Wells Gray experience.

After crossing into Alberta, you’ll arrive at one of the crown jewels of the Canadian Rockies: Jasper National Park. Over the next three days, you’ll explore waterfalls, alpine trails, hot springs, and charming mountain towns — all while staying at one of the best RV campgrounds in Canada.

🗺️ Drive: Clearwater to Jasper (via Mount Robson)

On your way to Jasper, stop at Mount Robson Viewpoint (if skies are clear) and Moose Lake for a peaceful stretch break. Watch your time: Alberta is one hour ahead of BC — something easy to miss when timing attractions like the Jasper SkyTram.

🚠 Day 8 Highlights

• Jasper SkyTram – Ride to a summit ridge for panoramic views (weather-dependent)
• Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls – Easy-access roadside waterfalls
• Whistlers Campground – Full-service, reservable RV sites close to town

Jasper’s mix of wildlife and glacial lakes makes it a must-stop on your RV trip.

🥾 Day 9 Hikes & Scenic Drives

• Maligne Lake – Optional boat tour (check ice conditions in May)
• Bald Hills Trail – Alpine hike with sweeping lake views (can be snow-covered early in the season)
• Maligne Canyon Lookout – Short scenic stop if you're short on time

If hiking Bald Hills early in the season, check AllTrails for snow, mud, or avalanche alerts. A good backup hike is Valley of the Five Lakes, accessible and rewarding with five unique lake viewpoints.

🔥 Day 10: Sulphur Skyline + Hot Springs

• Sulphur Skyline Trail – A challenging hike with epic summit views (4–5 hours round trip)
• Miette Hot Springs – Perfect recovery soak post-hike
• Jasper town – Souvenirs, local beer, and restaurants with views

The snowy push to the top of Sulphur Skyline is steep, but the views are worth it.

Three days gives you just enough time to enjoy the best of Jasper at a relaxed pace. Don’t forget to fuel up before continuing south — services are limited along the Icefields Parkway.

The next leg of your Western Canada RV trip brings you south along the legendary Icefields Parkway toward Banff National Park. This 3-day stretch includes glacier experiences, alpine lakes, scenic gondolas, and charming towns like Banff and Lake Louise.

🧊 Day 11 – Icefields Parkway Drive

• Athabasca Glacier Tour – Ride the Ice Explorer and walk on a glacier (book in advance)
• Panther Falls & Mistaya Canyon – Short trails just off the highway
• Peyto Lake – A must-stop viewpoint, even if partially frozen in May
• Bow Lake – Quick stop to stretch and enjoy the lakefront

Overnight at Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court in Banff — a full-service RV campground near town.

🏔️ Day 12 – Explore Banff: Town, Trails & Gondolas

• Bow River Walk – Flat, scenic walk between the Fairmont Banff Springs and pedestrian bridge
• Lake Minnewanka Boat Tour – 1-hour tour with mountain views and possible wildlife
• Banff Gondola – Ride to Sulphur Mountain summit + boardwalk views

For food, Banff Ave has plenty of brunch and dinner options. Consider Farm & Fire or Bluebird Steakhouse for mountain-themed menus.

Sulphur Mountain offers sweeping views of Banff and the Bow Valley from the gondola summit.

❄️ Day 13 – Lake Louise & Final Banff Stops

In late May, Lake Louise may still be partially frozen, creating a unique contrast between snow and turquoise water. Parking at the lake is allowed for RVs, and while there’s a $37 CAD fee, it saves time compared to the shuttle system.

Spend time walking the Lake Louise Shoreline Trail, then return to Banff for one last dinner and a final souvenir stroll through town.

Even in spring snow, Lake Louise is one of the most iconic spots in the Rockies.

The final leg of your RV road trip takes you west through lesser-visited but equally rewarding regions. Golden and Revelstoke offer mountain scenery without the crowds, while the Okanagan Valley is BC’s top wine region — a great place to unwind and toast your journey.

🌉 Day 14 – Emerald Lake & Golden

• Emerald Lake – Mirror-like alpine lake with an optional lakeshore loop
• Natural Bridge – Dramatic river rushing under limestone rock
• Golden Skybridge – Suspension bridge, treetop course, axe throwing, and food options

Emerald Lake and Golden Skybridge — serene and adrenaline-pumping stops in Yoho and Golden.

For camping in Golden, check Golden Municipal Campground. Some facilities may be basic, but the location is walkable to downtown.

🚞 Day 15 – Revelstoke: Trains & Mountain Views

• Revelstoke Railway Museum – Ideal for train lovers and Canadian Pacific history
• Meadows in the Sky Parkway – Panoramic mountain road with short trails
• Snowforest Campground – Forested national park campground with showers and dump station

Optional stop: Three Valley Gap Ghost Town – a quirky roadside attraction with antiques, exhibits, and photo ops. Allocate at least 1.5–2 hours.

Mountain panoramas and quirky roadside museums — Revelstoke surprises at every turn.

🍇 Day 16 – Wine Tasting in the Okanagan

Wrap up your trip with wine tasting in West Kelowna. We recommend this guided wine tour, which visits 4 wineries — no need to worry about parking or driving. Look for boutique stops like Crowns & Thieves for storytelling and bold wines.

Camp at Bear Creek Provincial Park, right on the lake. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy your last night by the fire with a bottle of local wine.

The Okanagan Valley is the perfect finale to a Western Canada RV itinerary.

From mountain highs to lakeside lows (in the best way), this last stretch of your trip adds a slower pace and new flavors before looping back to Vancouver.

📅 Best Time to Go

Late May through early October is ideal for an RV trip in Western Canada. Late May offers clear roads, spring wildlife, and fewer crowds — though high-altitude spots like Maligne Lake may still be frozen. If you're after full trail access and warmer weather, June through September is your safest bet.

🚐 RV Rental Tips

We recommend booking through RVezy, a Canadian platform with verified listings and insurance included. Look for units with solar, full hookups, and clearance for mountain roads. If you're a first-time RVer, consider a Class C under 25 feet for easier driving and campground access.

New to RV travel? Check out our complete RV trip planning guide for beginners. It covers rentals, packing, driving tips, and how to choose your first route.

🏕️ Campground Bookings

National park campgrounds in Canada open bookings on a rolling basis starting in January or February. Reservations for sites in Jasper, Banff, Yoho, and Glacier sell out fast. Set calendar reminders for each park and book the moment reservations open.

For more planning help, check out our beginner-friendly RV trip planning guide.

🌦️ Driving & Weather Conditions

Mountain weather is unpredictable, even in summer. Bring layers, rain gear, and prepare for sudden temperature changes — it can snow at Lake Louise in May. Cell service is limited in some areas, and fuel stops may be hours apart, so fill up early and often.

Check road and trail conditions before driving, especially along the Icefields Parkway. Sites like Alberta 511 and DriveBC help monitor closures or snow warnings.

🧭 Itinerary Flexibility

Some activities — like Okanagan wine tours or glacier excursions — should be booked in advance. But leave room to swap hikes or add scenic stops as you go. Western Canada rewards spontaneity, and sometimes, the best memories come from unplanned detours.

From coastal forests to glacial valleys, this 2-week RV loop shows off the best of British Columbia and Alberta. It’s fast-paced but balanced — offering just enough time in each region without backtracking or long detours.

If you’re planning a Canadian Rockies road trip with an RV, bookmark this guide, tweak the stops to your interests, and hit the road with confidence. And if you’d like a more personal look at this exact route — check out our full experience post linked below.

Safe travels — and don’t forget to book those campgrounds early!

When is the best time to do this itinerary?

Late May to early October. Late spring offers fewer crowds and open roads, though some alpine lakes may still be frozen. For full access to hikes and tours, June–September is ideal.

Can I drive an RV to Vancouver Island?

Yes, BC Ferries allows RVs on most routes, including to Nanaimo. Just be sure to reserve in advance and follow ferry size restrictions.

Where should I book campsites?

Use Parks Canada for national parks like Jasper and Banff. Other sites like BC Parks or Hipcamp are great for provincial parks and private options.

Do I need a special license to drive an RV?

In most cases, no. A regular Class 5 or G driver's license is enough for vehicles under 26 feet. Always check provincial guidelines if renting larger rigs.

Is this route kid-friendly or pet-friendly?

Yes! Many hikes are short and scenic, and all campgrounds listed allow kids. Pets are welcome in most parks (on leash), though restrictions apply in bear zones and on shuttles.