From winding mountain roads to glacier-fed lakes and vibrant cities, Peter Samson’s two-week Canadian Rockies journey reveals Mother Nature’s grandeur in every turn of the trail

Lead image: Lake Louise

Drive to the sky: Meadows in the Sky Parkway, Revelstoke

The name alone—Meadows in the Sky—is enough to pique curiosity, but this 32-mile round-trip drive up Mount Revelstoke delivers far more than poetic promise. Gently climbing nearly 1,400 metres, the parkway winds through ancient forests of cedar, spruce, and fir. With each hairpin bend, the air clears, the views sharpen, and the world falls away. At the summit, short trails lead to a historic fire tower, offering panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular.

Yoho National Park

Revelstoke: small town, big impression

Our itinerary had to change because of the forest fires which ravaged Jasper. Revelstoke may have been a Plan B, but it turned out to be a real highlight of the trip. With less than 9,000 residents, this town tucked between the Monashee and Selkirk Mountain ranges has a warmth that bigger resorts often lack. Once a bustling railway hub, it’s now a year-round destination for adventurers and nature lovers alike. A few well-laid streets offer cosy cafés, quirky shops, and delicious dining – plus a welcoming vibe that made it the perfect place to rest and recharge.

Whistler

Whistler’s summer secret

Often seen through a wintry lens, Whistler reveals an entirely different personality under summer skies. While its fame as a 2010 Winter Olympics host remains, over half its visitors now arrive during the warmer months. September brought 26ºC sunshine, blue skies, and unforgettable hikes. The 2.7-mile Peak 2 Peak Gondola, linking Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, offers dizzying views and access to high-alpine trails where every step is a postcard. That gondola link was a must-do… and worth every dollar!

Lakes like no other: Louise and Emerald

Few places on Earth can match the pristine beauty of Lake Louise. Its glacial turquoise hue draws travellers from every continent. But the real magic lies in the trails – especially those to the Big and Little Beehives – where elevated viewpoints grant a surreal perspective over the lake. Over in Yoho National Park, Emerald Lake lives up to its name, surrounded by dense forest and rocky peaks reflected in mirror-still waters. These aren’t just lakes; they’re living landscapes. ‘Breathtaking views’ can often be regarded as an over-used phrase when it comes to travel articles, but on this trip it was 100% apt, and I make no apology for its use.

Calgary

City Lights and final sights: Calgary

The Rockies may steal the show, but Calgary brings a stylish finale to the adventure. A bustling hub of business and film, the city is modern yet rich in history. The city’s Downtown buzzes with energy, especially around historic Stephen Avenue, where heritage buildings and contemporary culture meet. Skyscrapers replace summits, but the skyline here still inspires awe.

Travel tips:

• Best time to go: late summer (August–September) offers warm weather and fewer crowds.
• Must-bring items: layers for mountain hikes, hiking shoes, camera with plenty of storage (741 photos in my case!).
• Don’t miss: The Peak 2 Peak Gondola, sunrise at Lake Louise, and a post-hike cocktail in downtown Revelstoke.
• Remember to buy your pass, which allows you access to the country’s national parks. We opted for an annual pass because it worked out to be better value – and delivered an excuse to go back.