In July 2024, Stephen and I embarked on an unforgettable road trip to a destination that had long been on our bucket list: Banff National Park. We decided to drive from Seattle, Washington to Alberta, Canada in the Tesla, spending most of our time north of the border.

The adventure began the moment we crossed into Canada, with the border officer at Sumas enthusiastically telling us, “The drive to Banff is worth the trip alone!” Expectations high, Canada did not disappoint!

Must See Spots

Along Highway 1

The most direct path to Banff coming from the west is along Canada’s Highway 1 There are several noteworthy stops along the way:

1. Fruit World

The town of Sicamous is trademarked as the Houseboat Capital of Canada. But I most notably visited it for Fruit World!

Surrounded by Canada’s farmlands, Fruit World offers rows and rows of fresh local produce, canned goods, and snacks.

PRO TIP: If you ever pass a roadside fruit stand or farmers market…always stop! It’s always worth your time for fresh fruits and veggies.

We purchased peaches, cherries, strawberries, and tomatoes to enjoy over the upcoming days. There’s even a sink for you to wash your produce for immediate consumption. Stephen washed our cherries for us to enjoy on the road.

2. Dutchmen Dairy

Just across the street from Fruit World is a humble dairy farm that boasts the creamiest milk and ice cream. By mid-morning you can expect a line forming at the ice cream counter. They also offer fresh milk, cheeses, ice cream, popsicles, and candy.

We missed this on our first venture to Fruit World but stopped by on the way back. And yes, sometimes you have to eat ice cream for breakfast if you stop by at 8 am.

You’re also welcome to peruse the dairy farm just behind to store. Say hi to the cows as well as goats and chickens.

3. Bulk Barn

If you enjoy bulk bin shopping, you’re going to love Bulk Barn! This Canadian chain offers any food you can imagine in bulk. I stocked up on trail snacks here from the variety of trail mixes and chocolate-covered nuts.

Off the Beaten Path: Highway 97

Highway 97 loops down directly into the heart of Canada’s farmlands. Seemed like every mile (I mean, kilometer) had another farmers market store. We diverted our course here based on vehement request of a family who lived in Vernon. It’s only 30 minutes off course and loops back to Highway 1 offering new scenery.

Kalamalka Lake

Of all the lakes we swam in throughout this trip, Kalamalka Lake in Vernon was the only one that didn’t require a cold plunge mindset. This water was actually warm and swimmable!

The clear water was perfect for paddle boarding, and the multiple beaches made it easy to find a peaceful spot to relax.

4 National Parks in a Row

Past the shops and farmlands, civilization begins to thin. The scenery transitions into endless views of mountain tops with snowcapped peaks. I began to fully understand what the border officer meant as we passed through not one, not two, but THREE of Canada’s stunning national parks BEFORE we finally reached Banff.

1. Mount Revelstoke National Park

One of the last big towns before Banff is Revelstoke, named for the mountain below which it is situated. In the winter you can ski Mount Revelstoke. This park offers a lot of dog friendly trails and is closest to civilization.

2. Glacier National Park

Not affiliated in any way with Montana’s Glacier National Park, this park has only 2 stops and primary trailheads, one on each side of the highway. They offer roughly 60 campsites on a first come, first serve basis as well as backcountry permits. Plan to arrive early on a Friday afternoon to secure a spot.

It was so beautiful to drive through that I made a note to stop here on our way back home. More on that to come!

3. Yoho National Park

The final stunning landscape before arriving in Banff. A great taste of what’s to come with uniquely blue waters below and majestic peaks above.

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After 2 days and roughly 11 total hours of drive time (not including stops for snacks and charging), we arrived in beautiful Banff, eager to explore.

We would be car camping the next few days, adventuring by foot and floating on our paddleboard.

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What are your must-see spots in Canada?
Be sure to leave a comment of any places you recommend!