Alberta Road Trip With Kids: The Ultimate 14-Day Family Itinerary

Glaciers, turquoise lakes, dinosaurs, wildlife and the majestic Rocky Mountains: Alberta has all the ingredients required for one spectacular, never-to-be-forgotten family adventure.

This is how we completed our Alberta road trip with kids in 14 days – and how you can do it too.

Our Alberta family road trip started in Kelowna, British Columbia, before following a clockwise loop through Jasper, Edmonton, Drumheller, Calgary, Banff and Lake Louise.

It was an extraordinary journey filled with glaciers, bears, dinosaurs, waterslides, science centres, mountain views and enough time in the car to make me briefly question every life choice that had brought me to this moment.

But would I do it again?

Absolutely.

This two-week Alberta road trip remains one of our favourite family adventures in Canada.

Our Alberta Road Trip at a Glance

Our trip: 14 days
Distance: 2,045 kilometres
Route: Jasper, Edmonton, Drumheller, Calgary, Banff and Lake Louise
Travel style: A family road trip with Mia and Caius
Best for: Families who want cities, dinosaurs and the Canadian Rockies
Original journey: October 2015
Last updated: All attraction names, prices, accommodation details, road access, park fees, shuttle arrangements and travel logistics were fully reviewed and updated for 2026.

This article is based on the Alberta family road trip we personally completed with Mia and Caius in October 2015. The stories, experiences and occasional family-road-trip chaos are all ours, but the practical information has been carefully reviewed for 2026 so you can plan the same route using current details.

Make sure you have read all our tips before doing your Alberta Road Trip – Alberta Road Trip Tips: 7 Things to Know Before You Go

Our 14-Day Alberta Road Trip Itinerary at a Glance

Our route looked like this:

• Day 1: Kelowna to Jasper
• Day 2: Icefields Parkway and Columbia Icefield
• Day 3: Jasper SkyTram and Jasper National Park
• Day 4: Jasper to Edmonton
• Day 5: West Edmonton Mall
• Day 6: Prairie Gardens Adventure Farm
• Day 7: Edmonton attractions
• Day 8: Edmonton to Drumheller
• Day 9: Drumheller to Calgary
• Day 10: Calgary
• Day 11: Calgary to Banff
• Day 12: Banff National Park
• Day 13: Banff to Lake Louise
• Day 14: Lake Louise to Kelowna

If you are flying into Alberta, you do not need to begin this exact Alberta road trip loop in Kelowna.

You could fly into Calgary International Airport or Edmonton International Airport, collect a rental car and begin the itinerary from either city. That would remove approximately two long driving days from our original route and potentially save a substantial amount of fuel.

One-way car rentals can be much more expensive than returning a vehicle to the same location, so the beauty of this Alberta road trip itinerary is that it can work as a loop. You can begin in Calgary, Edmonton, Jasper or Banff and travel clockwise or anticlockwise until you arrive back where you started.

Is 14 Days Enough for an Alberta Road Trip?

Fourteen days gave us enough time to experience Alberta’s major family destinations without turning every day into a frantic box-ticking exercise.

That said, Alberta is enormous.

Even with two weeks, we could not see everything. We prioritised Jasper, Edmonton, Drumheller, Calgary, Banff and Lake Louise, creating a Calgary-Banff-Jasper-Edmonton itinerary with a dinosaur-sized detour through the Canadian Badlands.

This route worked particularly well as an Alberta road trip with kids because it alternated outdoor scenery with highly interactive family attractions.

One day we were standing on a glacier. The next we were riding waterslides inside a shopping centre. Then suddenly there were dinosaurs everywhere.

Alberta does not believe in easing you gently into anything.

Day 1: Kelowna to Jasper

Place: Jasper National Park
Accommodation: The Crimson Jasper
Best attraction: The scenic drive into Jasper

The journey from Kelowna to Jasper was one of the longest driving days in our 14-day Alberta road trip itinerary.

I would recommend splitting this section over two days when possible. Otherwise, prepare yourself for up to ten hours in the car once meals, fuel stops, toilet breaks, snack negotiations and general family-road-trip chaos are taken into account.

Google Maps may provide a driving time, but Google Maps has clearly never travelled with children.

Driving From Kelowna to Jasper With Kids

We made an impromptu stop at the Log Barn in Armstrong, British Columbia.

It was a wonderfully strange mixture of dinosaurs, goats, pond swans, a sweet shop and locally made food. We found sausages, pies and plenty of road-trip snacks, making it a useful lunch stop as well as a chance for Mia and Caius to escape the car.

It was exactly the kind of odd roadside attraction I love discovering on a family road trip.

You arrive intending to spend ten minutes stretching your legs, and suddenly you are examining a dinosaur while holding baked goods and watching goats.

If you are driving through this area during autumn, consider stopping near Haig-Brown Provincial Park in British Columbia to learn about the returning sockeye salmon. Salmon-run timing changes from year to year, but September and October are generally the months to investigate before travelling.

Entering Jasper National Park

A national park pass is normally required when stopping in Jasper National Park.

For regular admission in 2026, Parks Canada lists daily entry at CA$12.25 per adult, CA$10.75 per senior, and CA$24.50 for a family or group of up to seven people arriving in one vehicle. Admission remains free for visitors aged 17 and under.

There is also a special free-admission period from June 19 to September 7, 2026 under the Canada Strong Pass initiative. Visitors travelling outside that period should budget for the usual park fee or compare the cost of a Parks Canada Discovery Pass when visiting several national parks.

Once we finally arrived in Jasper, we were more than ready to settle into The Crimson.

After such a long day, dinner did not need to involve fancy clothes, complicated logistics or another expedition. LouLou’s was a convenient casual option in Jasper and continues to serve breakfast, pizza, burgers, and poutine.

Dinner recommendation: LouLou’s in Jasper for an easy, family-friendly meal after a very long driving day.

Day 2: Jasper and the Icefields Parkway

Place: Icefields Parkway and Columbia Icefield
Accommodation: The Crimson Jasper
Best attraction: Columbia Icefield Adventure

We began the next morning with one of the most scenic drives in the world: the Icefields Parkway.

The route between Jasper and Lake Louise is surrounded by glaciers, waterfalls, alpine lakes and mountains so dramatic they barely look real.

It is not simply a road connecting two places. The drive itself is one of the best attractions on any Alberta family road trip itinerary.

Our destination was the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre for the Columbia Icefield Adventure and the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

Columbia Icefield Adventure With Kids

A giant, tank-like Ice Explorer transported us onto the Athabasca Glacier.

Once on the ice, we had time to get out, walk around and take in the enormous frozen landscape.

That free time disappeared astonishingly quickly.

We became so distracted by the fact that we were standing on hundreds of feet of ancient ice that our vehicle nearly left without us.

There is something strangely captivating about standing on a glacier. You understand that it is ice, your feet confirm that it is ice, and yet your brain continues to stare at it in disbelief.

The current Columbia Icefield Adventure generally lasts between 2.5 and three hours and includes the Ice Explorer journey to the glacier and admission to the glass-floored Skywalk.

For the 2026 season, the experience operates weather-dependently from May 1 until October 12. Listed online prices vary by date and demand, with starting prices around CA$125-CA$141 per person for selected dates. Children aged five and under are currently free.

Check discounted tickets for your Columbia Icefield Adventure.

Book well ahead because availability and prices can change significantly during summer.

And bring warm clothing.

Even when Jasper feels pleasantly warm, the glacier can feel like it has its own entirely separate weather system.

Columbia Icefield Skywalk

After the glacier, we walked along the glass-floored Columbia Icefield Skywalk, which extends above the Sunwapta Valley.

The transparent floor provides a clear view beneath your feet, making this either the perfect place to overcome a fear of heights or an excellent place to discover one you did not realise you had.

I looked down through the glass to the valley hundreds of feet below us.

It was beautiful.

It was dramatic.

It was also a very effective reminder that I prefer solid ground.

Skywalk-only admission is also available, with 2026 tickets starting from approximately CA$48 on selected dates. Prices are dynamic, so check the official booking system for your particular travel day.

Waterfalls Along the Icefields Parkway

With most of our day already gone, we began driving back towards Jasper.

However, nature lovers should allow time for several waterfalls along the route, including:

• Tangle Creek Falls
• Sunwapta Falls
• Athabasca Falls

These are relatively easy to access compared with many Rocky Mountain attractions and do not require lengthy hikes to enjoy the main viewpoints.

The late-afternoon light was especially beautiful, and the reduced crowds made each stop feel even more peaceful.

Current road, trail and attraction access can change because of weather, maintenance and wildfire recovery. Parks Canada maintains an updated “what’s open” map for Jasper National Park, so check it shortly before travelling.

We arrived back in Jasper in time to see wild elk strolling through the town.

Watching enormous animals casually wander around while everyone tries to behave as though this is completely normal is a very Jasper experience.

We grabbed dinner and wandered through town beneath the dusky sky, still talking about the glacier.

Lunch recommendation: Bring sandwiches or a picnic. The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre has dining options, but packing food gives you more flexibility and can significantly reduce the cost of the day.

Dinner recommendation: Famoso Italian Pizzeria for pizza, including the all-important dessert pizza.

Day 3: Jasper SkyTram and Jasper National Park

Place: Jasper
Accommodation: The Crimson Jasper
Best attraction: Jasper SkyTram

Our third day was dedicated to seeing Jasper from above.

The Jasper SkyTram carries visitors up Whistlers Mountain, providing sweeping views across Jasper National Park.

The journey itself is quick, but the scenery at the upper station makes it worth allowing considerably more time.

Jasper SkyTram With Kids

I recommend allowing at least two hours for the Jasper SkyTram experience, with additional time when hiking beyond the upper station.

At the top, visitors can follow the Summit Trail towards Whistlers Summit. The walk is optional, but it rewards you with even wider views across the mountains.

Warm clothing is essential.

Even during summer, the temperature at the top can be noticeably cooler than it is in Jasper townsite. A sunny day below does not mean you will not be standing at the summit wondering why you left your warm jacket in the car.

The Jasper SkyTram is operating for the 2026 season, and booking tickets in advance is recommended. Seasonal opening times change throughout the year. Check your discounted Jasper SkyTram prices here.

An Important Update About Maligne Canyon

Our original Alberta road trip itinerary included the option of completing the Maligne Canyon hike.

However, Maligne Canyon remains closed for the entire 2026 season while Parks Canada assesses wildfire damage and plans extensive rehabilitation work.

Visitors must not enter the closed area.

Instead, consider another currently open Jasper attraction such as:

• Maligne Lake
• Pyramid Lake
• Patricia Lake
• Old Fort Point
• Lake Annette
• Jasper Discovery Trail
• A wildlife-viewing tour

Maligne Lake remains open and is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies, stretching approximately 22 kilometres through a mountain and glacier-lined valley.

Always confirm trail conditions before heading out, as closures and wildlife warnings can change rapidly.

After our mountain adventure, we returned to Jasper for lunch, shopping and more time exploring the town.

Check discounted ticket prices here.

Lunch recommendation: Earls Jasper, where we enjoyed sitting above the centre of town.

Dinner recommendation: Jasper Brewing Co. It was warm, atmospheric and welcoming, and although many visitors come for the locally brewed beer, the food deserves attention too.

Day 4: Jasper to Edmonton

Place: Edmonton
Accommodation: Delta Hotels by Marriott Edmonton South Conference Centre
Best attraction: The changing scenery between Jasper and Edmonton

After several days surrounded by mountains, waterfalls and glaciers, we packed the car and continued east towards Edmonton.

The drive from Jasper to Edmonton generally takes around four hours without extended stops.

It marked a noticeable change in our Alberta road trip with kids. We left the Rockies behind and travelled towards a much larger city filled with indoor attractions, restaurants, museums and the most famous shopping centre in Canada.

Driving From Jasper to Edmonton

This is a relatively straightforward driving day, but families should still allow time for fuel, meals and rest stops.

We arrived in Edmonton ready to slow down after our Jasper adventures.

Travellers with endless energy could head straight to West Edmonton Mall, but I was happy to check into the hotel, regroup and prepare for the following day.

Sometimes the best family road-trip attraction is a hotel room where nobody has to move for an hour.

Our original dinner stop, Blue Plate Diner, has since closed permanently, so it should no longer be included in a current Edmonton itinerary.

For a modern alternative, look around Edmonton’s downtown, Whyte Avenue or Jasper Avenue dining areas. Edmonton’s restaurant scene changes frequently, so check recent opening hours and reviews rather than relying on older recommendations.

One local speciality worth searching for is the green onion cake, which became closely associated with Edmonton after being introduced to the city by restaurateur Siu To.

Dinner suggestion: Choose a current Edmonton restaurant serving green onion cakes so you can try one of the city’s most recognisable foods.

Day 5: West Edmonton Mall With Kids

Place: Edmonton
Accommodation: Delta Hotels by Marriott Edmonton South Conference Centre
Best attraction: West Edmonton Mall

Have a substantial breakfast because this is not an ordinary trip to the shops.

West Edmonton Mall is enormous, and spending a full day there involves considerably more walking than the words “shopping centre” suggest.

We spent the day riding roller coasters, tackling waterslides, discovering the Santa María replica, watching sea lions and wandering through the aquarium.

West Edmonton Mall continues to operate more than 100 rides, slides, games and animal encounters across attractions including Galaxyland, World Waterpark, the Ice Palace and Marine Life.

Galaxyland at West Edmonton Mall

Galaxyland is the indoor amusement park inside West Edmonton Mall.

Mia and Caius could ride attractions without us worrying about rain, snow, intense heat or any other weather-related sabotage.

Because it is indoors, Galaxyland works well at almost any time of year and is particularly useful on an Alberta family road trip when the weather refuses to cooperate.

World Waterpark

World Waterpark contains the world’s largest indoor wave pool, more than 17 waterslides and a variety of splash areas.

The water is maintained at approximately 31°C, which creates the slightly surreal experience of enjoying a tropical waterpark while still being inside a Canadian shopping centre.

We rode waves, tried waterslides and used up whatever energy remained after Galaxyland.

Marine Life and Other West Edmonton Mall Attractions

Marine Life, Sea Life Caverns, sea lion presentations, mini golf, bowling and the Ice Palace remain among the mall’s attractions.

Hours vary between activities, and not every attraction follows the main shopping-centre schedule. Check the individual attraction hours when planning your day.

We fitted in an impressive amount, but there was still far more we did not manage to experience.

West Edmonton Mall is not a casual little shopping stop.

It is an itinerary.

Lunch recommendation: Pick somewhere inside the mall that gives everyone a proper break. There are multiple food courts and sit-down restaurants, so choose based on your location and the attractions you are visiting.

Dinner recommendation: After a full day of roller coasters and waterslides, choose something fun and completely lacking in nutritional restraint. This is not the evening for a sad salad.

Day 6: Prairie Gardens Adventure Farm

Place: Edmonton region
Accommodation: Delta Hotels by Marriott Edmonton South Conference Centre
Best attraction: Prairie Gardens Adventure Farm

We were fortunate to visit Prairie Gardens Adventure Farm during its Haunted Pumpkin Festival.

Seasonal events change throughout the year, but the farm has long offered family activities, play areas, food and special festivals within driving distance of Edmonton.

The day was full of fresh air, farm activities and enough entertainment to earn Prairie Gardens its own dedicated article on Explore With Erin.

A Family Day Trip From Edmonton

Prairie Gardens provided a complete contrast to our previous day at West Edmonton Mall.

One day we were riding indoor roller coasters beneath artificial lights. The next, we were outdoors embracing farm life.

That contrast is one of the reasons this two-week Alberta road trip worked so well with Mia and Caius.

Children do not necessarily want fourteen consecutive days of scenic viewpoints, no matter how magnificent those viewpoints may be.

At some stage, they need to run, play, climb, touch things and become inexplicably excited about a pumpkin.

After a full day outside, families could return to the hotel for a swim and rest.

Or, should your family possess energy levels far beyond mine, you could return to West Edmonton Mall.

Lunch recommendation: Bring a picnic or buy seasonal food at Prairie Gardens, depending on what is operating during your visit.

Dinner suggestion: Choose a farm-to-table restaurant on the return journey or eat near your hotel. Confirm opening days, as many rural restaurants have limited weekly hours.

Day 7: Edmonton With Kids

Place: Edmonton
Accommodation: Delta Hotels by Marriott Edmonton South Conference Centre
Best attraction: TELUS World of Science – Edmonton

Our final full day in Edmonton combined culture, science and family-friendly activities.

If you love art, begin with the Art Gallery of Alberta.

Its distinctive modern building is in downtown Edmonton and provides an indoor change of pace after several physically active days.

TELUS World of Science – Edmonton

After lunch, we visited TELUS World of Science – Edmonton.

The children could interact with science exhibits, investigate the human body, experiment with water, explore technology and watch an IMAX presentation.

The attraction continues to offer permanent galleries, demonstrations, Zeidler Dome shows and special exhibitions. Its current galleries include spaces dedicated to science, health, nature, the Arctic and younger children.

Admission prices and temporary-exhibition surcharges vary, so purchase tickets online before visiting.

From May 2 to September 7, 2026, the centre is hosting the temporary Dogs! A Science Tail exhibition, with an additional exhibition fee added to general admission.

Mia and Caius loved the interactive nature of the centre.

This was not a museum where I had to spend the entire visit whispering, “Please do not touch that.”

Here, touching, testing and experimenting were the whole point.

Dinner suggestion: Finish the evening with burgers or another relaxed family meal. Our original restaurant recommendation is no longer one I would rely upon without checking, so compare recent Edmonton restaurant listings close to your hotel.

Day 8: Edmonton to Drumheller

Place: Drumheller and the Canadian Badlands
Accommodation: Canalta Jurassic Hotel Drumheller
Best attraction: Royal Tyrrell Museum

We packed the car for the approximately three-hour drive from Edmonton to Drumheller, Canada’s dinosaur capital.

The landscape changed dramatically.

After the immense mountain scenery of Jasper, the dry, sculpted Canadian Badlands felt stark and almost otherworldly.

Then the dinosaurs appeared.

They were everywhere.

Colourful dinosaurs. Giant dinosaurs. Tiny dinosaurs. Dinosaurs positioned along roadsides and outside businesses. Drumheller does not gently hint at its prehistoric identity.

It commits.

Royal Tyrrell Museum With Kids

We headed straight for the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology.

It is one of the most important dinosaur museums in the world and an essential stop on any Calgary-to-Drumheller road trip with kids.

The exhibitions were interactive, creative, educational and beautifully presented.

Our entire family loved it.

This was one of those rare attractions where the adults were just as fascinated as the children.

The Royal Tyrrell Museum is located approximately six kilometres northwest of Drumheller in Midland Provincial Park.

From May 15 to August 31, it is open daily from 9 am until 9 pm, with final entry at 8 pm. Between September 1 and May 14, it generally opens Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am until 5 pm and closes on most Mondays except holiday Mondays.

Timed tickets are recommended, and every visitor requires a ticket, including children aged six and under.

During the Canada Strong period from June 19 to September 7, 2026, visitors aged 17 and under receive free general admission, while visitors aged 18 to 24 receive a 50% discount.

Allow at least two to three hours, and longer when your children consider palaeontology their life’s calling.

Drumheller Hoodoos

We finished the day by driving approximately 16 kilometres east of town along Highway 10 to see the Drumheller Hoodoos.

These narrow rock pillars have been shaped by erosion over millions of years and are among the most recognisable natural attractions in the Canadian Badlands.

Visit before dark.

This is practical advice for seeing the landscape clearly, taking photographs safely and avoiding the moment when you hear something howl in the distance and begin questioning how quickly your family can return to the car.

I was fairly certain I heard a coyote.

Nobody requested further investigation.

Dinner suggestion: Drumheller has several casual restaurants, pubs and family dining options. Check current opening hours, especially outside the main summer season.

Day 9: Drumheller to Calgary

Place: Calgary
Accommodation: Sheraton Cavalier Calgary Hotel
Best attraction: TELUS Spark Science Centre

The drive from Drumheller to Calgary takes approximately 90 minutes, making this one of the easier travel days in the itinerary.

After arriving in Calgary, we explored the city, stopped for food and headed to TELUS Spark Science Centre.

TELUS Spark Science Centre With Kids

TELUS Spark was another enormous success with Mia and Caius.

They experimented with sound, tried hands-on activities, explored the outdoor play area, watched science demonstrations and became so absorbed in the exhibits that staff were practically escorting us out at closing time.

We did not want to leave.

TELUS Spark remains Calgary’s major science centre, with interactive galleries, demonstrations, special exhibitions and activities for families.

Exhibitions and ticket prices change regularly, so check the current programme before planning your Calgary day.

Family-Friendly Accommodation in Calgary

The Sheraton Cavalier Calgary Hotel was especially useful during our Alberta road trip with kids because of its indoor pools and waterslides.

After a day at the science centre, we returned to the hotel, enjoyed the Club Lounge and gave the waterslides a serious workout.

A hotel pool can be the difference between children happily accepting that the sightseeing day is over and children staging a small-scale rebellion in the corridor.

Brunch recommendation: Calgary has an excellent breakfast and brunch scene. Look for an independently operated diner offering all-day eggs Benedict, pancakes and enough coffee to recover from the previous eight days.

Dinner recommendation: Tazza Deli & Grill remains a popular choice for Lebanese and Middle Eastern food in Calgary. Check its current location and hours before visiting.

Day 10: Calgary With Kids

Place: Calgary
Accommodation: Sheraton Cavalier Calgary Hotel
Best attraction: Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

We dressed warmly and headed to the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo.

The attraction was known simply as Calgary Zoo during our visit, but its current public name reflects its broader wildlife-conservation work.

Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo

The zoo has been part of Calgary for more than a century and remains one of the city’s best-known family attractions.

We loved exploring the animal habitats, gardens and children’s areas.

The indoor gorilla habitat and tiger presentation were highlights for us.

The zoo now sells date-specific daily admission online, with prices and seasonal promotions changing throughout the year. In 2026, it is also offering selected discounts tied to events such as the Calgary Stampede and reduced-price afternoon admission on eligible dates.

Allow at least half a day.

It is easy to underestimate the walking involved, especially when every member of the family has a different animal they consider absolutely essential.

What to Do After Calgary Zoo

Our original article suggested visiting Canada’s Sports Hall of Fame, but its public museum at Canada Olympic Park closed permanently in 2020.

For a current Calgary itinerary, replace it with one of these attractions:

• Calgary Tower
• Studio Bell, home of the National Music Centre
• Heritage Park Historical Village
• The Military Museums
• Prince’s Island Park
• Calgary Central Library

Calgary Tower remains a good option when you want panoramic views without committing to another full-day attraction.

We finished the day back at the hotel waterslides.

Because when you are travelling with children and your hotel has waterslides, those waterslides are not a minor amenity.

They are a daily contractual obligation.

Dinner recommendation: We enjoyed Tazza Deli & Grill so much that we visited twice. The hotel’s Club Lounge food was also substantial enough to rescue us on evenings when nobody wanted to venture out again.

Day 11: Calgary to Banff

Place: Banff National Park
Accommodation: Hidden Ridge Resort
Best attraction: Banff Gondola

The drive from Calgary to Banff takes roughly 90 minutes, depending on your starting point and traffic.

However, once the Rocky Mountains begin appearing, the drive inevitably takes longer because it becomes increasingly difficult to pass a viewpoint without stopping.

Prepare for drop-dead gorgeousness and repeated cries of, “Look at that!”

Calgary to Banff Road Trip Stops

When time allows, stop in Canmore.

The town has cafés, restaurants, mountain views and access to nearby trails.

Grassi Lakes is one of the area’s best-known walks, although trail access, parking restrictions and seasonal closures should always be checked before visiting.

We arrived in Banff near the end of the Banff Gondola operating season and headed directly to Sulphur Mountain.

Banff Gondola With Kids

The Banff Gondola takes approximately eight minutes to reach the upper terminal on Sulphur Mountain.

At the summit, visitors can explore viewing platforms, indoor exhibits and the boardwalk leading towards the historic Cosmic Ray Station.

I personally found the Jasper SkyTram scenery more dramatic, but the Banff Gondola was easier to explore and offered spectacular views over Banff and the surrounding mountain ranges.

Most visitors should allow approximately 90 minutes for the gondola and boardwalk, with extra time when dining at the summit.

The attraction operates seasonally, with long opening hours during summer and reduced schedules during autumn and winter.

During selected 2026 dates, a free shuttle and included Roam Transit travel are available for visitors holding same-day Banff Gondola tickets, helping travellers avoid the limited parking around Sulphur Mountain.

Cave and Basin National Historic Site

Banff Upper Hot Springs was closed for maintenance during our visit, so we drove to Cave and Basin National Historic Site instead.

This sulphur cave and natural pool system played an important role in the creation of Canada’s national park system.

You can no longer swim in the pools, but you can explore the site, learn about Banff’s history and look for the tiny Banff Springs snail.

These snails are among the most endangered animals in Canada.

They are also approximately the size of a pinhead, which means a family may spend a surprising amount of time staring intensely at water while asking, “Is that one?”

Lunch recommendation: Bear Street Tavern for pizza served with honey and chilli oil.

Dinner recommendation: Masala Authentic Indian Cuisine. We ordered Indian food and enjoyed it from the comfort of our accommodation, which meant nobody had to put their shoes back on.

Our favourite sweet ending was gulab jamun.

Day 12: Banff National Park With Kids

Place: Banff
Accommodation: Hidden Ridge Resort
Best attraction: Banff scenic drive

Activities in Banff are highly seasonal.

Roads, lakes, trails and attractions may be open, closed, frozen, snow-covered or accessible only by shuttle depending on the month.

Check Parks Canada’s current conditions before setting off rather than relying solely on an itinerary written by someone who visited during another season.

A Scenic Banff Driving Itinerary

We explored Banff through a series of scenic drives and short stops.

Our route included:

• Vermilion Lakes
• Fenland Trail area
• Mount Norquay viewpoint
• Bow Falls
• Surprise Corner
• Johnson Lake
• Two Jack Lake
• Lake Minnewanka
• Bankhead townsite

Vermilion Lakes provides beautiful mountain reflections close to Banff townsite.

The Mount Norquay lookout offers one of the best elevated views over Banff without requiring a long hike.

Bow Falls is easy to reach and works well when travelling with younger children or when you only have a limited amount of time.

Surprise Corner provides another classic view, while the lakes north of Banff create an easy half-day driving circuit.

Relaxing at Hidden Ridge Resort

After several busy days, we returned to Hidden Ridge Resort for some much-needed rest.

Sitting in a steaming outdoor hot tub while crisp mountain air surrounds you is one of life’s finer experiences.

It also feels significantly more luxurious after you have spent almost two weeks loading children, jackets, snacks and luggage in and out of a vehicle.

Lunch recommendation: Melissa’s MisSteak, a long-running Banff restaurant serving breakfast, comfort food and steaks.

Dinner recommendation: The Maple Leaf, where we celebrated our 13th wedding anniversary.

The restaurant offered beautiful town views, attentive service and an excellent meal.

It was a special evening and one of the most memorable dining experiences of our Alberta road trip.

Day 13: Banff to Lake Louise

Place: Lake Louise and Icefields Parkway
Accommodation: Baker Creek by Basecamp
Best attraction: Lake Louise and Peyto Lake

Lake Louise is extraordinarily beautiful, but I generally recommend staying in Banff and visiting Lake Louise as a day trip unless you specifically want a quieter mountain escape.

Banff has a larger selection of restaurants, shops and evening activities.

Lake Louise wins on seclusion, natural beauty and the feeling that you have stepped directly into a postcard.

Banff to Lake Louise Scenic Drive

On the Trans-Canada Highway between Banff and Lake Louise, we stopped at several viewpoints near Castle Mountain and Johnston Canyon.

When time allows, take the Bow Valley Parkway, also known as Highway 1A.

This scenic route runs broadly parallel to the Trans-Canada Highway and provides access to viewpoints, picnic areas and trails.

Wildlife-related seasonal restrictions can apply to parts of the road, so check current Parks Canada notices before travelling.

We spotted a grizzly bear meandering near the route.

It was our first wild grizzly sighting.

Seeing one was thrilling, frightening and completely unforgettable.

We remained inside the vehicle and gave the bear plenty of room.

Wildlife should never be approached, surrounded or fed, regardless of how impressive the resulting photograph might look on Instagram.

Visiting Lake Louise

Once we arrived at Lake Louise, we stopped for lunch and then headed towards the lake itself.

We spent around an hour admiring the glacier, taking photographs and walking beside the water.

The colour seemed almost unreal.

Lake Louise has become extremely busy, and parking restrictions are much more significant than they were during our original visit.

In summer and early autumn, travellers should plan transport in advance and strongly consider using the Parks Canada shuttle system.

Moraine Lake Road is now closed to personal vehicles throughout the year. Access is limited to Parks Canada shuttles, licensed commercial services, eligible accessible vehicles and registered Moraine Lake Lodge guests. For 2026, the main shuttle reservations opened on April 15, with additional seats released two days before departure.

Even though Moraine Lake was not part of our original day, it is an important addition for travellers creating a modern Banff and Jasper itinerary.

Icefields Parkway From Lake Louise

After Lake Louise, we drove north along the southern section of the Icefields Parkway.

We stopped repeatedly to photograph lakes, glaciers and mountain viewpoints.

Our favourites included:

• Crowfoot Glacier
• Bow Lake
• Bow Summit
• Peyto Lake

Bow Summit had transformed into a winter fantasyland.

We walked through crunchy white snow to the viewpoint above Peyto Lake.

The landscape felt like Narnia.

The walk back downhill was slippery, so take care whenever there is snow or ice, even when the trail initially appears manageable.

Conditions around Bow Summit and Peyto Lake can change quickly. Wear shoes with proper grip and carry warm layers.

Lunch recommendation: Laggan’s Mountain Bakery & Delicatessen. We loved the chilli, and the peanut butter brownie was exactly the sort of road-trip decision I support.

Dinner suggestion: Dining choices around Lake Louise can be limited and expensive. Book ahead or bring supplies when staying somewhere with kitchen facilities.

Day 14: Lake Louise to Kelowna

Place: Lake Louise to Kelowna
Accommodation: Choose accommodation in Kelowna or continue your onward journey
Best attraction: The final drive through the Rocky Mountains

After breakfast, we packed the car for the final drive back to Kelowna.

We wound our way through the Rocky Mountains, passing small towns, glaciers, forests and lakes.

The scenery remained beautiful right until the final stretch.

By this point, the car had accumulated the unmistakable signs of a two-week family road trip: snack fragments, jackets, water bottles, souvenirs and several mysterious items nobody remembered packing.

Lake Louise to Kelowna Road Trip Stop

We stopped in Revelstoke, British Columbia, for lunch.

Revelstoke makes a useful break between Lake Louise and Kelowna, with restaurants, mountain scenery and attractions that could easily justify a longer stay.

During our visit, we ate at Chubby Funsters and were served by a lovely Australian waitress.

It was a comforting little piece of home near the end of a very Canadian adventure.

Then we completed the final drive to Kelowna.

Phew.

We had done it.

Fourteen days, multiple cities, several national parks, one glacier, countless mountains and enough unforgettable family moments to last a lifetime.

Our Alberta Road Trip Tally

Total days: 14

Total distance: Approximately 2,045 kilometres or 1,270 miles

Fuel used on our original trip: CA$358

Fuel prices have changed substantially since our journey, so do not use our historic total as a current budget.

For a modern Alberta road trip budget, calculate the approximate fuel cost using:

• Your rental vehicle’s fuel consumption
• The full route distance
• Current petrol prices
• Additional sightseeing detours
• Time spent idling in traffic or searching for parking

Total grizzly bears: One

Total priceless family memories: Too many to count

More Alberta Road Trip Route Tips

Depending on where you begin, you may want to continue north along the Icefields Parkway towards Jasper to complete your circuit.

Alternatively, travel from Banff to Calgary for your flight home or continue from Jasper to Edmonton.

The benefit of this Alberta road trip loop is its flexibility.

You can start almost anywhere and follow the itinerary clockwise or anticlockwise.

Best Alberta Road Trip Route From Calgary

For travellers flying into Calgary, I would arrange the route like this:

1. Calgary
2. Drumheller
3. Edmonton
4. Jasper
5. Icefields Parkway
6. Lake Louise
7. Banff
8. Calgary

This creates a logical Alberta road trip loop from Calgary and avoids paying for a one-way car rental.

Best Alberta Road Trip Route From Edmonton

When flying into Edmonton, use this order:

1. Edmonton
2. Drumheller
3. Calgary
4. Banff
5. Lake Louise
6. Icefields Parkway
7. Jasper
8. Edmonton

This also works well as a two-week Alberta road trip, although the final drive from Jasper to Edmonton will still require several hours.

How Much Driving Is Involved in This Alberta Family Road Trip?

Our complete route covered approximately 2,045 kilometres.

The longest day was Kelowna to Jasper, which could take close to ten hours after family stops.

The other major driving days were far more manageable.

Approximate direct driving times include:

• Kelowna to Jasper: 7-8 hours before stops
• Jasper to Edmonton: around 4 hours
• Edmonton to Drumheller: around 3 hours
• Drumheller to Calgary: around 1.5 hours
• Calgary to Banff: around 1.5 hours
• Banff to Lake Louise: around 45 minutes
• Lake Louise to Kelowna: approximately 5 hours before stops

Driving times change according to weather, roadworks, wildlife, traffic and sightseeing stops.

The Icefields Parkway should never be treated as a simple drive from Point A to Point B.

Allow an entire day.

Possibly allow two.

You will stop far more often than expected.

Best Time for an Alberta Road Trip With Kids

The best time for an Alberta road trip depends on what you want to experience.

Summer Alberta Road Trip

June through August provides the warmest weather and the greatest number of open attractions and trails.

However, it is also the busiest and most expensive period.

Accommodation in Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise can sell out months ahead.

Early Autumn in Alberta

September and early October can offer cooler temperatures, colourful foliage and fewer visitors.

However, snow can arrive early in the mountains, and seasonal attractions may begin reducing their hours.

Our trip included autumn and early-winter conditions, which created beautiful snowy landscapes but also required us to monitor closures.

Winter Alberta Road Trip

A winter Alberta itinerary can be spectacular, especially for skiing, snowshoeing and frozen-lake scenery.

However, it is a very different journey from this one.

Winter driving requires experience, appropriate tyres, flexible plans and close attention to road conditions.

Spring in Alberta

Spring is unpredictable.

Lower-elevation areas may feel mild while mountain trails remain snowy, icy or closed.

Some attractions do not reopen until May or June.

Alberta National Park Passes and Entry Fees

Banff and Jasper are inside Canadian national parks, and visitors stopping to explore normally require admission.

The standard 2026 daily entry fees are:

• Adult: CA$12.25
• Senior: CA$10.75
• Youth aged 17 and under: Free
• Family or group travelling in one vehicle: CA$24.50

A Parks Canada Discovery Pass may be better value when visiting national parks for seven days or longer outside the free-admission period.

During the 2026 Canada Strong Pass period from June 19 to September 7, national park admission is free and selected Parks Canada overnight accommodation receives a 25% discount.

This promotion is specific to 2026 and should be removed or updated when the article is reviewed in future years.

Where to Stay During an Alberta Road Trip With Kids

Our Alberta family road trip included the following accommodation bases:

Where to Stay in Jasper With Kids

We stayed at The Crimson Jasper. Check discounted pricing here.

Its central position made it convenient for restaurants, shops and trips into Jasper National Park.

Because Jasper continues recovering from the 2024 wildfire, accommodation availability can be limited. Book early and support locally operated businesses whenever possible.

Where to Stay in Edmonton With Kids

We stayed at Delta Hotels by Marriott Edmonton South Conference Centre.

A hotel with a swimming pool works particularly well when spending several nights in Edmonton with children.

Families planning to focus almost entirely on West Edmonton Mall could also consider staying closer to the mall.

Where to Stay in Drumheller With Kids

We stayed at Canalta Jurassic Hotel Drumheller. Check discounted pricing here.

The dinosaur theming suited the destination perfectly and made it easy to continue the prehistoric excitement after leaving the museum.

Where to Stay in Calgary With Kids

We stayed at Sheraton Cavalier Calgary Hotel.

The indoor pool and waterslides were major advantages for our family.

Where to Stay in Banff With Kids

We stayed at Hidden Ridge Resort.

The chalet-style accommodation, kitchen facilities and outdoor hot pools made it a comfortable family base.

Where to Stay Near Lake Louise

We stayed at what was then Baker Creek Chalets, now known as Baker Creek by Basecamp.

It provides a quiet mountain setting between Banff and Lake Louise.

For families who prefer restaurant choice and evening atmosphere, staying in Banff and visiting Lake Louise during the day may be more convenient.

How Much Does a 14-Day Alberta Road Trip Cost?

The cost of a 14-day Alberta road trip with kids can vary dramatically depending on the season, your accommodation style, the type of rental vehicle you choose and how many paid attractions you include.

Alberta is not necessarily a cheap family road-trip destination, particularly during July and August. Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise accommodation can be expensive, and several of the major Rocky Mountain attractions charge premium admission prices.

However, many of Alberta’s best experiences – mountain viewpoints, lakes, waterfalls, scenic drives and wildlife sightings – are free once you have paid for your national park admission.

The following estimate is designed for a family of four travelling for 14 days with two adults and two children. All amounts are in Canadian dollars.

Estimated Alberta Road Trip Budget for a Family of Four

These figures are estimates rather than fixed package prices. Rental cars, hotels and attractions frequently use dynamic pricing, meaning the same trip may cost considerably more during school holidays and summer weekends.

Calgary rental-car pricing can vary from lower-cost compact vehicles to family SUVs averaging more than CA$100 per day, with July typically among the most expensive months.

For national park admission, Parks Canada’s 2026 Family/Group Discovery Pass costs CA$167.50. However, admission to Parks Canada destinations is free between June 19 and September 7, 2026, which could remove this cost entirely for summer travellers.

How to Save Money on an Alberta Family Road Trip

We balanced several expensive attractions with free scenic experiences, and I recommend doing the same.

Some of the best free or low-cost stops on this itinerary include:

• Athabasca Falls
• Sunwapta Falls
• Tangle Creek Falls
• Pyramid Lake
• Patricia Lake
• Drumheller Hoodoos
• Vermilion Lakes
• Bow Falls
• Surprise Corner
• Lake Minnewanka
• Two Jack Lake
• Bow Lake
• Peyto Lake
• Exploring Banff and Jasper townsites
• Driving the Icefields Parkway

You can also reduce the cost by staying somewhere with kitchen facilities, packing picnic lunches and buying groceries before entering Banff, Jasper or Lake Louise.

Book the rental car and mountain accommodation as early as possible, especially when travelling during July or August. Staying in Canmore rather than Banff may occasionally save money, although Canmore is no longer automatically the budget option it once was.

Some attractions offer family deals or discounted times. For example, the Banff Gondola currently permits one child to travel free with each paying adult during the first two operating hours of the day, while the Columbia Icefield Adventure offers a discount on departures after 3:30 pm.

West Edmonton Mall can become one of the most expensive days of the trip when your family visits both Galaxyland and World Waterpark. Compare individual tickets with the available multi-attraction passes before purchasing, but do not assume a longer pass is cheaper for a single-day visit.

Our original fuel total was CA$358, but petrol prices, vehicle efficiency and the number of sightseeing detours will change the final figure. The mountains have a habit of turning a direct drive into six additional viewpoints, three waterfall stops and an unexpected hunt for lunch.

Budgeting CA$300-$450 for fuel provides a more useful modern estimate for this route, but I would still leave a little room for spontaneous detours.

Because there will be detours.

This is Alberta.

What to Pack for an Alberta Road Trip With Kids

Even in summer, pack for changing weather.

Our Alberta road trip packing list should include:

• Warm layers
• Waterproof jackets
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Hats and sunscreen
• Refillable water bottles
• Sunglasses
• Picnic supplies
• Road-trip snacks
• A basic first-aid kit
• Motion-sickness medication when needed
• Portable phone chargers
• Offline maps
• Swimwear
• Shoes with good grip
• Binoculars for wildlife viewing
• A small daypack
• Insect repellent
• Bear spray when hiking in bear country

Bear spray must be stored, carried and used correctly. Learn how to use it before entering a trail and never pack it in airline luggage.

Alberta Road Trip With Kids FAQs

Is Alberta Good for a Family Road Trip?

Yes. Alberta combines mountains, wildlife, science centres, museums, waterslides, dinosaurs and family-friendly cities.

The variety makes it particularly well suited to children because every day feels different.

Is 14 Days Enough to See Alberta?

Fourteen days is enough to see Jasper, Edmonton, Drumheller, Calgary, Banff and Lake Louise at a comfortable pace.

You will not see the entire province, but you can create an excellent two-week Alberta itinerary around these destinations.

Should I Fly Into Calgary or Edmonton?

Calgary is usually the most convenient airport for Banff, Lake Louise and Drumheller.

Edmonton works well for West Edmonton Mall and Jasper.

Compare flight prices and rental-car costs before deciding.

Can You Visit Banff and Jasper on the Same Trip?

Yes.

The Icefields Parkway connects the Banff and Jasper regions and is one of the most spectacular parts of the journey.

Allow a full day to drive it because you will want to stop at waterfalls, glaciers, lakes and viewpoints.

Is the Icefields Parkway Suitable for Kids?

Yes, provided you plan regular stops and carry food, water and warm clothing.

Many major viewpoints require only short walks from the parking area.

Fuel and services are limited along parts of the route, so fill the car before leaving Jasper or Lake Louise.

Is It Better to Stay in Banff or Canmore With Kids?

Banff places you directly inside the national park and close to major attractions.

Canmore often provides larger accommodation, supermarkets and a slightly less intense atmosphere.

Compare prices because neither destination is guaranteed to be inexpensive.

Is It Better to Stay in Banff or Lake Louise?

Banff is better for restaurants, shops and evening atmosphere.

Lake Louise is better for seclusion and immediate access to mountain scenery.

For most families, I recommend staying in Banff and visiting Lake Louise for the day.

How Long Should You Spend in Drumheller?

Allow at least one full day.

Stay overnight when possible so you can visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, Hoodoos and other Canadian Badlands attractions without rushing.

Do You Need a Car for an Alberta Road Trip?

A car provides the greatest flexibility, particularly for Drumheller, the Icefields Parkway and attractions outside the major towns.

Banff has useful public transport, but completing this full route without a vehicle would be complicated.

What Is the Best Month for an Alberta Road Trip?

July and August offer the warmest conditions and the greatest number of open attractions.

June and September can be slightly quieter but have less predictable mountain weather.

How Far Ahead Should You Book Alberta Accommodation?

Book Banff, Jasper and Lake Louise accommodation several months ahead for summer.

Peak dates may sell out even earlier.

Is an Alberta Road Trip Expensive?

It can be.

Accommodation and paid Rocky Mountain attractions are often costly.

Travelling outside peak season, staying in Canmore, using kitchen facilities, packing picnics and balancing paid attractions with free natural sights can reduce the total.

Explore With Erin Wrap Up on Our 14-Day Alberta Road Trip

The final drive was filled with long sighs, fond memories and enough daydream material to last for years.

This was not simply a road trip through Alberta.

It was Mia and Caius discovering dinosaurs, science centres and giant shopping-centre attractions.

It was me standing on a glacier and almost missing the ride back.

It was watching elk stroll through Jasper, seeing our first wild grizzly, celebrating our wedding anniversary in Banff and walking through snow above Peyto Lake.

It was long drives, big meals, cold hands, hotel waterslides, breathtaking views and a vehicle increasingly filled with the debris of family adventure.

Alberta gave us mountains, glaciers, lakes, wildlife and cities packed with family attractions.

It also gave us one of the best family road trips we have ever taken.

This journey is not easily forgotten.

And I suspect that once you have driven through the Rocky Mountains, stood beside Lake Louise and watched your children encounter their first full-sized dinosaur skeleton, you will understand exactly why.