Cross Canada Road Trip: Alberta
- Lyn (aka Jazz)
- Aug 18
- 11 min read
In my last post, you saw how I navigated the spectacular landscapes of British Columbia, but as I crossed the provincial border into Alberta, I knew my cross Canada road trip was about to take on a whole new feel. The towering peaks of the Rockies still dominated the skyline, but in the distance, I could already feel the vast, open embrace of the prairies waiting for me.
My beloved campervan, Wanda, is my home on wheels. Travelling in her gives me the freedom to explore at my own pace, often choosing to park for the night on public lands, rest stops, campgrounds, or even retail parking lots when needed. This lifestyle allows me to self-cater most of my meals, giving me more control over my budget and diet, and provides the ultimate comfort of my own cozy space, wherever I am. Plus, it's a huge money-saver! I've been fortunate enough to drive across Canada and back several times, and I've also done countless shorter regional road trips. This series is a compilation of all the amazing experiences I've had, highlighting the ones I've discovered along the way. Be warned, the sheer amount of amazing places to see means that to truly experience everything I've described in this series would take months!
For this second installment of my cross-Canada journey, I want to give you a roadmap (or three!) for navigating the stunning and diverse province of Alberta. There’s so much to see and do here that one road can’t possibly capture it all. So, I’ve broken down the trip into three distinct routes to help you find the one that best suits your travel style. As you read, you’ll notice many links (with more to be added later)—I highly encourage you to click through to explore each location in greater detail and create a more precise itinerary suited to your own particular travel style.
Table of Contents
An Alberta Overview for a Cross Canada Road Trip
Before we hit the road, let's take a moment to appreciate what makes Alberta so unique. The province was officially established in 1905, but its history dates back much further, tracing its roots to the Indigenous peoples who have lived on this land for millennia. European exploration and the fur trade were followed by the arrival of the railway and a massive wave of homesteaders in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, transforming the landscape into a hub for farming and ranching. The discovery of significant oil and gas deposits in the mid-20th century, particularly the vast oil sands in the north, fundamentally reshaped its economy and culture, leading to periods of significant growth and prosperity.
Today, Alberta's economy is a dynamic mix of its historic roots and modern industries. While the oil and gas industry remains a dominant force, the province is also a powerhouse in agriculture, known primarily for its cattle and wheat production. You'll see massive fields and sprawling ranches as you drive across the prairies. In recent years, there has also been a significant push to diversify into technology, film, and tourism, ensuring that the economy continues to evolve.
This blend of old and new is also reflected in Alberta's culture. You'll find a strong sense of Western Canadian identity, with a deep appreciation for its cowboy and farming heritage, particularly evident in events like the Calgary Stampede. At the same time, its major cities of Calgary and Edmonton are vibrant, modern, and multicultural, offering a rich arts and entertainment scene. There's a friendly, open spirit here that makes it a welcoming place for any traveller.
The Trans-Canada Highway Route: The Quickest Way East
This route is for those who want to get a taste of Alberta's iconic highlights without a lot of detours. Leaving British Columbia behind, cruising east on the Trans-Canada Highway, travellers will be immediately swallowed by the breathtaking beauty of Banff National Park. Continuing the journey east, you will pass through the charming mountain towns of Banff and Canmore. As you drive through the National Park, be sure to notice the famous wildlife "Animal Bridges" that allow wildlife to cross the busy highway safely. From there, the foothills of the Rockies slowly give way to the flat plains of the prairies. In just over two hours (from Lake Louise to Calgary), you will arrive at the first major stop: the city of Calgary.
Calgary’s downtown core is an impressive sight, with buildings tightly clustered between the Bow River and the railway tracks, housing the headquarters of most of Canada’s oil and gas companies. Shoppers can enjoy a great shopping spree here, taking advantage of the fact that you only pay the 5% GST in Alberta. It's also an excellent city for a break from driving, as Calgary has Canada’s largest network of recreational trails, with miles of relatively level running and biking trails running alongside the Bow River. From Calgary, the highway continues for another three and a half hours, past the city of Medicine Hat before crossing into Saskatchewan.
Driving time (without stops) between Banff and Medicine Hat is about 4 hours.
Nature-Based Adventures
The Trans-Canada route provides endless opportunities for nature lovers right from the start in Banff National Park. Beyond the popular tourist spots, there are countless trails for every skill level. You can take a dip in the Banff Upper Hot Springs to soothe tired muscles or rent a kayak or canoe to paddle the iconic turquoise waters of Lake Louise (book 6-12 months in advance!) and Moraine Lake. The national park also offers numerous campgrounds perfect for settling in with Wanda and enjoying a night under the stars.
History, Culture, and Charming Towns
The towns of Banff and Canmore are full of character, with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. In Calgary, you can delve into the city's past at Fort Calgary, which tells the story of the North-West Mounted Police, or explore the incredible collection at the Glenbow Museum. If you’re travelling in early July, the world-famous Calgary Stampede is a can't-miss experience.
Before leaving the province, be sure to stop at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park, a site that holds deep significance for the Siksika Nation. Here, you can walk the trails and listen to downloaded stories from a Blackfoot elder, gaining a powerful insight into the area's rich history.
Scenic Views
While the entire drive through Banff National Park is a scenic spectacle, the journey beyond the Rockies offers a unique perspective on the province's geography. You’ll witness the dramatic transition from soaring mountain peaks to rolling foothills before the land finally flattens into the vast prairie landscape.
The Scenic Route: A Southern Alberta Adventure
If you've got a bit more time to spare and want to explore some of Alberta's more unique southern landscapes, this is the route for you, following the Crow's Nest Highway (Highway 3) along the US-Canada border into southern Alberta. This scenic drive takes you through a fascinating geological transition. As you leave the mountainous terrain behind, the landscape slowly gives way to rolling foothills and vast, open prairie. One of the highlights is Waterton Lakes National Park, a stunning area where the mountains meet the prairies, creating a breathtaking contrast of ecosystems. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a unique mix of plants and wildlife.
This path eventually leads north to Calgary. After enjoying the city, take a side trip to the otherworldly landscapes of the Alberta badlands. The sheer scale and beauty of the hoodoos in Drumheller are jaw-dropping. If you're a dinosaur enthusiast, you’ll want to check out the Royal Tyrell Museum in Drumheller.
Make another stop at Dinosaur Provincial Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with some of the most extensive dinosaur fossil beds in the world. After this detour, rejoin the Trans-Canada route to continue toward Medicine Hat.
This route takes approximately 7 hours to drive.
Nature-Based Adventures
Waterton Lakes National Park is a fantastic place for nature enthusiasts, boasting over 250 species of birds and 60 species of mammals. The unique topography makes for excellent hiking, with trails that transition from lush forests to windswept alpine meadows.
After leaving Calgary, you'll encounter the famous Canadian Badlands. Here, the landscape is dramatically different, sculpted by wind and water over millions of years into canyons, mesas, and the famous sandstone hoodoos. Both Drumheller and Dinosaur Provincial Park offer numerous walking trails to explore this unique terrain.
History, Culture, and Charming Towns
The scenic route is rich in history. The Crow's Nest Highway itself has a significant past, having been a route for gold rush prospectors and later built in part by Japanese Canadian internees during World War II. As you drive through the Crowsnest Pass, you'll pass through several historic coal mining towns like Coleman and Blairmore, and can learn about the area's tragic history at the Frank Slide Interpretive Centre.
Turning north towards Calgary, the town of Fort Macleod is a must-see. It's a cute little town and home to the Fort Museum of the North West Mounted Police, which offers a great look at Canada's law enforcement history, and is a short drive from the incredible Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Northeast of Calgary the town of Drumheller, with its charming downtown and an impressive collection of dinosaur statues, is a hub of paleontology and a great place to stop for a bite. Don't miss the chance to see the World's Largest Dinosaur, a 86-foot-tall T-Rex you can climb into for a new perspective. A detour to the historic Atlas Coal Mine offers a glimpse into the region's industrial past.
Head south on Highway 56 to rejoin the TransCanada Hwy (Highway 1). Finally, as you arrive at the city of Medicine Hat, you'll find a lively arts and culture scene anchored by the Medalta in the Historic Clay District. This National Historic Site celebrates the city's rich history in pottery and ceramics, and you can take a tour of the preserved industrial buildings and beehive kilns.
Scenic Views
The drive itself is a main attraction, starting with the stunning meeting of mountains and prairies in the Waterton area, before you travel north towards Calgary. But the most spectacular views await in the badlands. The drive into the Drumheller Valley is a memorable moment as the prairie landscape suddenly drops away to reveal a breathtaking, Mars-like world of deep canyons and strange rock formations.
This route is a photographer's dream, offering countless unique vistas and a completely different visual experience from the mountain routes.
The Off-the-Beaten-Track Routes: For the True Adventurer
These routes are for the solo traveller like me who wants to take their time and truly immerse themselves in a region, even if it means adding significant time to their itinerary. Instead of starting right at the border on the Trans-Canada, I have two different suggestions for you.
These routes will take 8-12 hours of driving time.
The Northern Route: For those looking for an even more extensive journey, this route connects from the northern BC route that goes through Prince George and passes through the incredible Mt. Robson Provincial Park, before entering Jasper National Park from the north. This is a great way to visit the city of Edmonton and Red Deer along the way before arriving in Calgary.
The Central Route: This route follows Highway 11 from Saskatchewan Crossing on the Icefields Parkway, through David Thompson Country, to Rocky Mountain House, and then on to Calgary and Medicine Hat. I wrote all about my unforgettable stops and hikes on the Icefields Parkway, including my visit to Athabasca Falls and Maligne Canyon, and I encourage you to read them to see just how much there is to do here. If you decide to take this route, you also have to check out my post on the Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site—it’s an amazing glimpse into the fur trading history of the region.
Nature-Based Adventures
The off-the-beaten-track routes are a dream for nature enthusiasts seeking true wilderness. Along the northern route, Jasper National Park offers incredible hiking, from the easy, scenic trails around Maligne Canyon to the multi-day challenge of the Skyline Trail. You can also enjoy peaceful paddle trips on the park's many lake, a great way to spot wildlife from the comfort of a raft, canoe, kayak, or paddleboard.
Make sure to stop to walk the trails around Athabasca Falls.
For those on the central route, David Thompson Country is a hidden gem with numerous provincial parks and recreation areas. Here you can explore stunning waterfalls like Crescent Falls, hike along the scenic Siffleur Falls trail, fish in the North Saskatchewan River or enjoy water sports on the stunning Abraham Lake.
History, Culture, and Charming Towns
While these routes are more about the landscape, there are still plenty of historical and cultural stops. Along the northern route, the city of Edmonton offers the Royal Alberta Museum, the largest in western Canada, with extensive exhibits on natural and human history.
Red Deer, located midway between Edmonton and Calgary, has a rich history as a central hub for the region's farming and ranching communities. You can explore this heritage at the Sunnybrook Farm Museum. The historic downtown area has many restaurants, bars, and unique shops.
For the central route, the Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site is a must-see. This site preserves the archaeological remains of early 19th-century fur trading posts and provides a fascinating look into the lives of European explorers and Indigenous peoples, including David Thompson. The town of Rocky Mountain House is known as the "Gateway to Adventure" and makes a great base for exploring the surrounding area.
Scenic Views
These routes offer a different, more intimate kind of scenic beauty than the more travelled Trans-Canada route. The northern route takes you through the heart of Jasper National Park, an awe-inspiring drive with towering peaks and pristine wilderness. A highlight is the famous Icefields Parkway, with stunning views of glaciers and turquoise lakes. On the central route, Highway 11, also known as the David Thompson Highway, is quieter and just as spectacular.
The scenery transforms as the road climbs from the prairies into the foothills and then into the mountains, with jaw-dropping views of Abraham Lake, the province’s largest man-made lake, known for its deep blue colour and unique frozen methane bubbles in winter. You’ll find countless pull-offs and viewpoints along the way to stop and take it all in.
Final Thoughts
No matter which of these routes you choose, a road trip through Alberta is an unforgettable experience. The landscape is a constant source of wonder, from the dramatic peaks of the Rockies to the vast, golden prairies and the unique badlands. Whether you’re looking for a fast-paced journey to see the highlights, a scenic meander through small towns, or a deep dive into the wilderness, Alberta has a route for you.
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I've been to the Rockies so many times now but they never get old. I spend a bit of time in Banff, Lake Louise and more recently Canmore, but Jasper is where I need to spend more time. My visits have been too fleeting. As a major dinosaur need my Drumheller visit was a dream come true. The museum was awesome. This shows me I need to plan more Alberta adventures though, maybe further east than the Rockies. Watertown Lakes looks beautiful, another amazing Canadian national park to enjoy. Maybe Alberta has too many fantastic National parks. I think the other provinces are gonna get jealous
𝗔𝗹𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗮 𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘀𝗲 𝘄𝗵𝗼 𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹 𝘀𝗹𝗼𝘄𝗹𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗮𝘆 𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻. 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗱𝗲𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗶𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗥𝗼𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗲𝘀 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝘁𝗼 𝗽𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀, 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗼𝘄𝗻𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗽𝗲𝗲𝗸 𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝗮𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘄𝗮𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝗱𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗱𝗼𝗼𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲 𝗺𝗲 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘀𝗮𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲. 𝗜 𝘀𝗵𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗹𝗲𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗸 𝗶𝗻. 𝗔𝗹𝗯𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗮'𝘀 𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗽𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝘀𝗽𝗶𝗿𝗲𝘀 😉 #𝗳𝗹𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗯𝗮𝗴𝘂𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗲 🥖🪽
Now, this is part of the country I have been to, several times. The photos do not do it justice. Certainly, a trip to Alberta needs to include Banff, Jasper, Calgary and Drumheller but like you said, there are many routes throughout the province that can provide unique experiences. Alberta is certainly worth spending more time visiting. Well done1
What a lovely province Alberta is! The mixture of nature, local culture and thriving cities intrigues me. The tower in Calgary reminds me of the TV Tower here in Berlin and the mountainside in Banff must be such a "pinch me, now I am in Canada" moment when you drive along the road into the village. I also appreciate that you shared a couple of different routes through the province, I most likely go with the first one through Calgary as I love city life.
Carolin | <a href="https://solotravelstory.com/">Solo Travel Story</a>
I have always been fascinated with Alberta, and out of all of the provinces in Canada, it's top of my list to visit someday. When you mentioned the oil and gas industry, and the cowboy culture, it reminded me of Texas and I have been told that Alberta is Canada's version of Texas. I think what sets it apart are the gorgeous Canadian Rockies and the beautiful national parks there. I am also finding it hard to choose which route I would take since there's just so much beautiful scenery and a uniqueness to the life there that I would want to capture. I would definitely want to visit Banff and Calgary. Abraham Lake looks stunning! Excellent job on this!