The thrill of the open road, the wind in your hair, and the sun on your face – there's nothing quite like a road trip to create lifelong memories. For those seeking an adventure of a lifetime, the journey from Ontario to Seattle is a must-consider. Spanning over 4,500 kilometers, this epic road trip can be broken down into 7 manageable stages, each offering a unique blend of stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unforgettable experiences. In this article, we'll delve into the ultimate road trip itinerary, highlighting the best routes, attractions, and tips for an unforgettable journey.
Key Points
- Stage 1: Explore the scenic beauty of Ontario and the Canadian Rockies
- Stage 2: Discover the charming towns and stunning lakes of the Canadian Prairies
- Stage 3: Experience the vibrant city life of Calgary and Banff National Park
- Stage 4: Marvel at the breathtaking scenery of the Icefields Parkway and Jasper National Park
- Stage 5: Visit the picturesque towns and wine country of British Columbia
- Stage 6: Explore the stunning coastline and outdoor recreation opportunities of the Pacific Northwest
- Stage 7: Arrive in Seattle, a vibrant city surrounded by natural beauty and endless attractions
Stage 1: Ontario to Winnipeg (approx. 1,800 km, 2-3 days)
The journey begins in Ontario, where you’ll embark on a scenic drive through the Canadian Shield, passing by numerous lakes, forests, and quaint towns. As you make your way west, you’ll enter the province of Manitoba, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. Be sure to visit the Forks in Winnipeg, a historic site located at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine rivers, and explore the city’s thriving arts and culture scene.
Must-see attractions in Stage 1
Some of the top attractions in this stage include the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, the Assiniboine Park Zoo, and the Riding Mountain National Park. Take a scenic drive along the Lake of the Woods, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
| Location | Distance from Ontario | Must-see attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Winnipeg | 1,800 km | Canadian Museum for Human Rights, Assiniboine Park Zoo, Riding Mountain National Park |
| Lake of the Woods | 1,500 km | Scenic drives, boating, fishing |
Stage 2: Winnipeg to Calgary (approx. 1,300 km, 2 days)
From Winnipeg, you’ll continue west into the Canadian Prairies, passing through the provinces of Saskatchewan and Alberta. This stage offers a unique blend of charming towns, stunning lakes, and rolling hills. Be sure to visit the Royal Saskatchewan Museum in Regina, and explore the vibrant city of Calgary, known for its cowboy culture and stunning mountain backdrop.
Must-see attractions in Stage 2
Some of the top attractions in this stage include the Calgary Tower, the Glenbow Museum, and the Banff National Park. Take a scenic drive through the Canadian Badlands, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Stage 3: Calgary to Banff National Park (approx. 130 km, 1 day)
From Calgary, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Banff National Park, located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. This stage offers breathtaking mountain scenery, glaciers, and abundant wildlife. Be sure to visit the Lake Louise, the Moraine Lake, and the Johnston Canyon, and take a scenic drive along the Bow Valley Parkway.
Must-see attractions in Stage 3
Some of the top attractions in this stage include the Banff Gondola, the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, and the Upper Hot Springs. Take a scenic hike through the Johnston Canyon, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Stage 4: Banff National Park to Jasper National Park (approx. 290 km, 2 days)
From Banff, you’ll continue north to Jasper National Park, passing through the stunning Icefields Parkway. This stage offers breathtaking mountain scenery, glaciers, and abundant wildlife. Be sure to visit the Columbia Icefield, the Athabasca Glacier, and the Maligne Lake, and take a scenic drive along the Maligne Road.
Must-see attractions in Stage 4
Some of the top attractions in this stage include the Jasper SkyTram, the Miette Hot Springs, and the Medicine Lake. Take a scenic hike through the Valley of the Five Lakes, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Stage 5: Jasper National Park to Kelowna (approx. 560 km, 2 days)
From Jasper, you’ll continue west to the province of British Columbia, passing through the stunning scenery of the Canadian Rockies. This stage offers a unique blend of charming towns, stunning lakes, and rolling hills. Be sure to visit the Revelstoke National Park, the Shuswap Lake, and the Kelowna, and take a scenic drive along the Trans-Canada Highway.
Must-see attractions in Stage 5
Some of the top attractions in this stage include the Kelowna Art Gallery, the Waterfront Park, and the Big White Ski Resort. Take a scenic drive through the Okanagan Valley, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Stage 6: Kelowna to Vancouver (approx. 390 km, 2 days)
From Kelowna, you’ll continue south to the city of Vancouver, passing through the stunning scenery of the Coast Mountains. This stage offers a unique blend of urban attractions, outdoor recreation opportunities, and stunning natural beauty. Be sure to visit the Stanley Park, the Granville Island, and the Grouse Mountain, and take a scenic drive along the Sea-to-Sky Highway.
Must-see attractions in Stage 6
Some of the top attractions in this stage include the Vancouver Aquarium, the Museum of Anthropology, and the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park. Take a scenic drive through the Fraser Valley, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Stage 7: Vancouver to Seattle (approx. 230 km, 1 day)
From Vancouver, you’ll continue south to the city of Seattle, passing through the stunning scenery of the Pacific Northwest. This stage offers a unique blend of urban attractions, outdoor recreation opportunities, and stunning natural beauty. Be sure to visit the Space Needle, the Pike Place Market, and the Chihuly Garden and Glass, and take a scenic drive along the Puget Sound.
Must-see attractions in Stage 7
Some of the top attractions in this stage include the Seattle Waterfront, the Seattle Art Museum, and the Discovery Park. Take a scenic drive through the Olympic Peninsula, and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
What is the best time to take this road trip?
+The best time to take this road trip is during the summer months (June