10 Days in Alberta: Nature, Adventure & Memories

From soaring mountains and turquoise lakes to waterfalls, glaciers, and even the world’s largest mall, Alberta has something for everyone. This 10-day itinerary balances outdoor adventure with time to relax and take in the beauty around you.

Day 1 - Travel Day

Arrival day! Depending on when you land, keep this day easy. Get checked into your hotel or Airbnb, pick up snacks and supplies for the days ahead, and enjoy a relaxing dinner. Alberta is about to wow you, so rest up for what’s to come.

Day 2 – Banff: Gondolas, Lakes & Trails

Your first full day in Banff is packed with incredible scenery, waterfalls, and mountain views. There’s more here than you can fit into a single day, so choose the highlights that excite you most—no matter where you go, it will be beautiful.

Pro Tip: Consider purchasing the Pursuit Pass, which bundles tickets for popular Banff and Jasper attractions—including the Banff Gondola, Lake Minnewanka Cruise, Columbia Icefield Skywalk, and more. It can save both money and time during your trip.

Troll Falls
About an hour from Calgary, this gentle trail leads to a charming waterfall. A great way to stretch your legs after the drive.
Canmore
A cozy mountain town just before Banff. Stop for coffee, brunch, or a stroll through local shops.
Lake Minnewanka & Two Jack Lake
As you enter Banff National Park, these lakes are perfect for canoeing or enjoying a quiet picnic.
Cave and Basin National Historic Site
Learn about the birthplace of Canada’s national park system and take in the historic hot springs.
Johnston Canyon Trail
About 35 minutes from Banff town, this popular hike features waterfalls, canyon walls, and catwalks suspended above the water.
Tunnel Mountain Reservoir
A quiet, picturesque spot with wide-open mountain views—perfect for photos. Hopefully you can time this stop with a train passing through the mountain!
Bow River Canoe Tour
Go for a scenic paddle on the Bow River surrounded by stunning peaks.
Banff Gondola
Ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views over six mountain ranges. The boardwalk at the top offers even more breathtaking perspectives.

Insider Tips
>> Book your gondola time slot in advance—spaces fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
>> If you’re short on time, prioritize the Gondola, Johnston Canyon, and one lake.
>> Parking at Johnston Canyon is limited—arrive early or plan for off-peak times.

Day 3 – Banff: Iconic Lakes & Hikes

This day is all about Alberta’s postcard-perfect scenery.

Lake Louise

Famous for its turquoise water framed by soaring peaks. Rent a canoe, stroll the lakeshore, or simply soak in the view.

Moraine Lake

Nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, it’s equally stunning with its deep blue waters.

Fairview Mountain

For seasoned hikers, this challenging trek rewards you with panoramic views of Lake Louise from above.

Insider Tip: Parking at both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is extremely limited. Consider shuttle buses or guided tours for less hassle.
For a truly magical experience, arrive at Lake Louise around 5:00 AM. You’ll almost guarantee parking, and you’ll witness the sunrise as it sets the mountains ablaze in fiery colors—an unforgettable sight.

Day 4 – Banff: Golden Adventures

Time for a day trip into nearby British Columbia.

Golden Skybridge

More than just Canada’s highest suspension bridge, this adventure park also features a zipline, axe throwing, and a thrilling mountain coaster. It’s a fantastic stop for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids and adults entertained while soaking in the alpine views.

Downtown Golden

Stroll through this charming mountain town, browse local shops, and enjoy a laid-back lunch.

Lake Canoeing

End your day with a peaceful paddle on one of the nearby lakes, taking in the reflection of the mountains on the water.

Insider Tip: The Skybridge experience can easily take a few hours if you try the activities. If you’re short on time, prioritize the suspension bridge and mountain coaster.

Day 5 – Banff to Jasper: Waterfalls & Glaciers

One of the most scenic drives in the world—the Icefields Parkway—connects Banff to Jasper.

Athabasca Glacier Ice Explorer Tour

Ride out onto the glacier itself for a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Remember to take your waterbottle for some fresh glacier water. Don't forget to book your tour before hand.

Columbia Icefield Skywalk

A glass-floored walkway suspended above the Sunwapta Valley.

Athabasca Falls

A powerful cascade with excellent viewing points.

Sunwapta Falls

Another dramatic waterfall with multiple lookout areas.

Weeping Wall

A sheer cliffside where countless streams cascade down the rock face.

The best advice we can give here is to take your time. Enjoy the views, take stops along the way where it is safe.

Insider Tip: There is very limited cell reception in this area. Ensure you have maps, music, and tickets downloaded to your phone before heading into this area.

Day 6 – Jasper: Maligne Lake Cruise

Today’s highlight is one of Jasper’s most iconic experiences—the Maligne Lake Cruise. But don’t rush the journey; the drive itself is part of the adventure.

Scenic Drive

On the way to Maligne Lake, you’ll find plenty of pull-offs with breathtaking viewpoints. Take your time and stop often to capture the stunning mountain and lake vistas.

Wildlife Watching

This area is teeming with wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled—you may spot moose, elk, deer, or even bears along the roadside. Remember to stay safe and observe from a distance.

Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island

Glide across turquoise waters to Spirit Island, one of the most photographed locations in the Rockies. The cruise combines stunning scenery with fascinating commentary about the area’s geology and history.

Pursuit Pass Tip: The Maligne Lake Cruise is included in the pass—book your time slot early, especially in peak season.
Insider Tip: Bring layers, as it can get chilly on the boat, and make sure your camera or phone is fully charged—you’ll be snapping non-stop.

Day 7 – Jasper: Explore by Day, Stars by Night

Spend your last full day enjoying Jasper’s laid-back charm before capping the evening with stargazing.

Morning & Afternoon: Explore Jasper

Stroll through shops and galleries for souvenirs and Canadian-made crafts.
Try a local eatery—Bear’s Paw Bakery for breakfast or Jasper Brewing Co. for lunch.
Stretch your legs on a short trail like Old Fort Point for sweeping views of the town.

Evening: Planetarium & Stargazing

Visit the Jasper Planetarium, then step outside to admire the stars in this Dark Sky Preserve.
Use telescopes to spot Saturn’s rings, distant galaxies, and the Milky Way.

Insider Tip: Dress warmly—even summer nights can get cold. Bring a blanket or camp chair if you plan to stargaze after the show.

Day 8 – Edmonton: Urban Fun

After days of nature, shift gears in Alberta’s capital.

West Edmonton Mall

North America’s largest shopping and entertainment complex. Shop till you drop, enjoy an indoor amusement park, waterpark, or even ice skating—all under one roof.

Insider Tip: Plan ahead—this mall is massive. Pick a couple of key attractions (like Galaxyland or World Waterpark) so you don’t feel overwhelmed.

Day 9 – Drumheller & Calgary: Dinosaurs & City Vibes

Your final full day combines prehistoric landscapes with urban charm.

Drumheller

Start with the Royal Tyrrell Museum, home to one of the world’s largest dinosaur fossil collections. Afterward, head out to the Drumheller Hoodoos—unique rock formations shaped by centuries of erosion. A short hike here offers great views of the Badlands and a chance to experience the area’s otherworldly landscapes up close.

Calgary

Wrap up your trip with a stroll downtown, enjoy a nice dinner, or take a walk along the Bow River before heading home.

Insider Tip: The Hoodoos trail can get hot and dusty in the afternoon—bring water, wear good shoes, and try visiting earlier in the day for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.

Day 10 – Travel Day

Time to say goodbye to Alberta! Since you’ll be departing from Calgary, plan your morning with a little flexibility depending on your flight time.
If you have an early departure, head straight to the airport—Calgary International (YYC) can be busy, so give yourself extra time.
If your flight is later in the day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast in Calgary or take a quick stroll through Prince’s Island Park downtown for one last taste of the Rockies’ foothill beauty.

Insider Tip: If you didn’t get the chance on Day 9, a quick stop at the Calgary Tower offers sweeping views of the city and the mountains beyond—an inspiring farewell before your journey home.

Safe travels back, and may Alberta’s mountains, lakes, and memories stay with you long after your plane takes off.