Day 1
Calgary
Arrive in Calgary and either collect your rental car for the short drive into Downtown Calgary or if you prefer, take a taxi to your hotel and collect your car the following day downtown. An overnight stay in Calgary gives you time at leisure to rest up or head out to explore nearby sites such as Calgary Tower.
Day 2
Calgary to the Drumheller (135km)
Heading east from the city you are en-route to Drumheller in the Canadian Badlands. This area is one of the richest fossil beds in the world and the largest dinosaur fields in North America. You can stop off at the Royal Tyrell museum for some great interpretation of the fossil findings and a look at the story of the Dinosaurs that roamed here.
Days 3 - 5
Drumheller to La Reata Ranch, Kyle (393km)
Head further east leaving Alberta behind (you’ll be back) and drive into Saskatchewan. The rolling plains are so blanketed with wheat fields that they are known as Canada’s ‘bread basket’. Other scenic stop points will take in beautiful lakes and forests. Your final destination is Kyle to start your authentic ranching experience at the wonderful La Reata. You will get an insight into both cowboy life in a bygone era and the running of a contemporary ranch. Knowledgeable guides will show you the prairielands by horseback and you can help with the care of a herd of over 200 cows including new-born calves. You can also explore on a hike or take a boat trip on the lake to spot birdlife and wildflife. Meals are included and are a social affair; evenings are spent in the ‘saloon’ (complete with pool and darts), sitting by the campfire or in the hot tub or practising your lasso skills. Overnight in La Reata Ranch for 3 nights.
Day 6
La Reata Ranch, Kyle to Regina (311km)
Keep going further east under the biggest of skies and you will be exploring lands that pioneering immigrants discovered in the 19th century. Stop at the wonderfully named Moose Jaw for some informative historical attractions such as the Heritage Centre for the ‘Mounties’ with a great self-guided audio tour. Additionally you will enjoy the Passage to Fortune historical tour with a re-enactment of Chinese immigrant life in the 1800s within the town’s tunnels.
Day 7 & 8
Regina to Saskatoon (263km)
Driving northward toward Saskatoon, a popular rock and folk location in the late 60s and early 70s. The next day travel to the spectacular Wanuskewin Heritage Park known as "The Gathering Place". Over six thousand years ago, Wanuskewin was surrounded by the sounds of bison hooves and voices of Indiegenous people from across the Northern Plains. Walk their footsteps throughout the interactive displays and learn why this site was a place of celebration, worship and deep spirituality.
Day 9
Saskatoon to Smoky Lake (511km)
Your journey today takes you deeper into the heart of the Canadian Prairies. As you drive towards Smokey Lake, you'll witness the landscape shift from gently rolling plains, where fields of wheat, canola, and flax stretch endlessly, to the more diverse terrain of Alberta. Along the way, you'll pass through quaint small towns and peaceful rural communities that embody the region's serenity. The sight of forests and small lakes will signal that you are nearing your destination.
Day 10
Smoky Lake
Known for its Pumpkin Festival and rich Ukrainian heritage, Smokey Lake is a warm and inviting destination. Nestled in a picturesque landscape, surrounded by rolling hills and tranquil lakes, the town offers a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking.
Day 11
Smoky Lake to Jasper (474km)
The majestic Rocky Mountains beckon! As you drive west into the foothills, the mountains gradually rise on the horizon until they suddenly dominate every view on today's scenic journey. Winding through the passes and valleys, you’ll arrive in the outdoor adventure hub of Jasper. This tranquil alpine town, with its splendid lodges, serves as the gateway to excursions, tours, and a host of thrilling attractions within Jasper National Park.
Day 12
Jasper
Today is yours to enjoy in this peaceful alpine town. You might choose to have lunch at one of the many restaurants or explore the local shops. Jasper is well-known as the gateway to countless adventures in the surrounding park. Consider booking a Maligne Lake boat cruise or taking a ride on the Jasper SkyTram (activities and tours available at an additional cost).
Day 13
Jasper to Banff (285 km)
Saving the best drive until last, this road is more well-travelled and rightly so as it is considered one of the world’s most scenic road trips. Stop for photo opportunities of snow-capped mountains and waterfalls and the beautiful Peyto Lake before settling for the night at Banff.
Day 14
Banff
Spend today exploring Canada’s most renowned Rocky Mountain community! The upscale shops and restaurants along Banff Avenue offer a global array of tastes and treasures. Elk often wander the broad central boulevards, creating a surreal blend of human and wildlife coexistence. You might want to visit the Banff Natural History Museum or take a gondola ride. For the more adventurous, consider a helicopter or a sidecar tour (activities and tours available at an additional cost).
Day 15
Banff to Calgary / End of Tour (127 km)
Head down from the Rockies back into Calgary for your flight home.
