What are the top places for road trips around Calgary?

If you own a car, you can easily bring all your camping stuff, hiking gear, and other necessary items for a fun and immersive experience.

Are you looking for a fun and exciting way to explore the beautiful province of Alberta? Look no further than road trips around Calgary! With stunning landscapes, charming towns, and endless outdoor activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

In this article, we will explore the best places for road trips near Calgary. These places should be on your travel list.

Experience the Beauty of Alberta

Alberta is known for its breathtaking landscapes, from the majestic Rocky Mountains to the rolling prairies. By taking a road trip, you'll have the opportunity to see it all and truly appreciate the beauty of this province.

Flexibility and Freedom

Road trips offer the ultimate flexibility and freedom when it comes to travel. You can choose your own route, make stops along the way, and take detours to explore hidden gems. With the convenience of a car, you can bring along all your camping gear, hiking equipment, and other essentials for a truly immersive experience.

Affordable Travel Option

Compared to other forms of travel, road trips can be a more affordable option. With the ability to camp or stay in budget-friendly

place to stay, you can save money while still having a memorable adventure.

Top Places for Road Trips Around Calgary

Banff National Park

No road trip around Calgary would be complete without a visit to Banff National Park. Located just an hour and a half from Calgary, this iconic park is home to stunning mountain views, turquoise lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. Take a drive along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway, hike to the top of Sulphur Mountain, or relax in the natural hot springs. With so much to see and do, Banff National Park is a must-visit destination for any road trip.

Canmore

Just a short drive from Banff, you'll find the charming town of Canmore.

This old mining town is now a favourite place for tourists. It has lots of fun things to do outside, interesting shops, and great places to eat.

Take a stroll through the town's main street, explore the nearby hiking trails, or try your hand at rock climbing. Canmore is the perfect place to stop and stretch your legs on your road trip.

Drumheller

Known as the "Dinosaur Capital of the World", Drumheller is a must-visit destination for any road trip around Calgary. This small town is home to the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which houses one of the world's largest displays of dinosaur fossils. You can also explore the nearby Badlands, a unique landscape of hoodoos and canyons. With its rich history and stunning scenery, Drumheller is a great addition to any road trip.

Waterton Lakes National Park

Located in the southern part of Alberta, Waterton Lakes National Park is a hidden gem that often gets overlooked. This park offers stunning views of the Rocky Mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. Take a scenic drive along the Red Rock Parkway, hike to the top of Crypt Lake, or relax on the shores of Cameron Lake. With its peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking scenery, Waterton Lakes National Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Kananaskis Country

Just an hour's drive from Calgary, you'll find Kananaskis Country, a lesser-known gem that offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. This area is home to several provincial parks, including Peter Lougheed Provincial Park and Spray Valley Provincial Park. Here, you can hike, bike, fish, and camp in the stunning Canadian wilderness.

Being close to Calgary makes Kananaskis Country an ideal location for a weekend escape or a day's outing.

Lake Louise

No road trip around Calgary would be complete without a visit to Lake Louise. This iconic lake is known for its stunning turquoise waters and picturesque mountain backdrop. Take a drive along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway, hike to the top of the nearby mountains, or rent a canoe and paddle around the lake. With its breathtaking beauty, Lake Louise is a must-see destination for any road trip.

Tips for Planning Your Road Trip

Plan Your Route

Before hitting the road, it's important to plan your route. Consider the places you want to visit, the amount of time you have, and the distance between each destination. This will help you create a realistic plan and ensure that you don't miss any must-see spots.

Pack the Essentials

When going on a road trip, it's important to pack the essentials. This includes a first aid kit, snacks, water, and any necessary camping or hiking gear. It's also a good idea to bring a map or GPS device in case you lose cell service.

Be Prepared for the Weather

The weather in Alberta can change quickly, so it's important to be ready for any kind of weather. Pack layers, rain gear, and sunscreen to ensure that you're ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way.

Conclusion

Road trips around Calgary offer the perfect combination of adventure, flexibility, and affordability. With so many stunning destinations to choose from, you can create a road trip that suits your interests and time frame. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready to explore the beauty of Alberta on your next road trip.

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