Canada Destinations

Our travels through Canada

Alan had been saying for years that he wanted to visit his buddy Murph in Vancouver. So I figured, why not turn this into the perfect excuse to step outside the U.S. and see how wild the Canadian Northwest really is? Spoiler: it was rugged, remote, and ridiculously beautiful — equal parts awe and adrenaline.

We kicked things off at Waterton Lakes National Park, the Canadian partner to Montana’s Glacier. Picture a sparkling alpine lake, mountain views, and the storybook Prince of Wales Hotel perched on the bluff — yes, we stopped in for teatime. From there, it was on to the crown jewel: Banff National Park. I had no idea how crowded a park could be until Banff — buses, gondolas, selfie sticks everywhere. Pro tip: get to Lake Louise early! Book lodging earl! Buy gondola tickets online, and scout the quieter corners for those postcard views (we went to the terrace of the Fairmont hotel and Banff Botanical Gardens).

Then came the legendary Icefields Parkway. Even the name sounds dramatic, and with rain pelting our windshield it felt downright cinematic. Glaciers, turquoise lakes, and miles of untamed wilderness — you just know the backcountry is crawling with wildlife. I didn’t spot a grizzly this time, but trust me, I’ll be back with a longer lens. Highlights: Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, Mistaya Canyon, Mt Athabasca Falls.

The road delivered us to Jasper, a laid-back, dog-friendly lake town that stole my heart. Check out Patricia Lake & Pyramid Lake (dogs can trek off-leash) We checked into the Forest Park Hotel (bonus: their Hearthstone Lounge Restaurant hits the spot), and grabbed a friendly pub lunch at the Mad Grizzly Bistro Bar. Small town vibes, big hospitality.

Where We Stayed

• Waterton: Prince of Wales Hotel (iconic with a view to match)

• Banff: Fairmont Banff Springs or the Best Western (options for both luxe and budget in Canmore)

• Jasper: Forest Park Hotel (dog-friendly, with on-site dining)

• Kamloops: Best Western

• Whistler: Blackcomb Lodge

• Vancouver: Accent Hotel (simple, central, perfect for city exploring)

From Jasper: Cache Creek BC - check out Horsteins Market through the very rugged Lilloet to Kamloops, BC (we got some downtime and comfort at Best Western & Himalayan Restaurant across the street) The next day was a new adventure on the Sea-to-Sky Highway (Rte 99) to Whistler Blackcomb, BC. We splurged like royalty at the Blackcomb Lodge and Araxi Restaurant in Whistler Village…(it was so crowded with young folks getting the end of season hikes and bikes there was literally no other choice!)

Finally, Vancouver, BC — where Murph played tour guide extraordinaire - Stanley Park, ‘86 Expo, Chinatown, Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge, Granville Island Arts District. Lunch on Granville Island was a highlight at The Sandbar with waterfront energy and fresh market eats. Next time? We’re hopping the ferry to Vancouver Island (and yes, you definitely want to book those tickets in advance).

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