irish1348 Posted February 22, 2015 Report Share Posted February 22, 2015 Hello again! I have been thinking of taking a trip from N. California to Bonnyville, Canada, passing through Banff and Jasper, Canada. My problem is this. This will be my first long trip towing a 36' fifth wheel. I am wondering if the area from Banff to Jasper is valley or is it climbs through the Rockies. Any insights, advice or thoughts from anyone would be so appreciated. I am hoping to do this in July or August. Thanks in advance, Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lots2see Posted February 23, 2015 Report Share Posted February 23, 2015 It's been a few years since we did that drive but I seem to remember it as being mostly valley. And I certainly don't remember any real mountain passes but like I say it's been a while. (At least as far as Jasper.) Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Darryl&Rita Posted February 23, 2015 Report Share Posted February 23, 2015 It follows a valley, but you'll already have lots of experience crossing mountain passes by the time you get there. It's in the middle of the mountains. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Darryl&Rita Posted February 23, 2015 Report Share Posted February 23, 2015 As you'll be coming from Northern California, I'm assuming you're familiar with, and will be travelling I-5 heading North. Once into the Vancouver area, you'll be turning right (or East) onto the Trans-Canada highway, #1. This road is very similar to I-5, in that it's a high speed, wide freeway close to population centres, dropping down to 4 lane further out. Further into BC, you'll have the choice of the faster, but higher and steeper, Coqihalla, or the more scenic 3/5a combo. Both are good routes, no matter what Discovery channel tries to portray on their "Highway thru Hell" program. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
FULLTIMEWANABE Posted February 23, 2015 Report Share Posted February 23, 2015 Irish1348 FWIW: living an hour from Banff, we have spent countless trips since the late 90's, initially with a 36ft fifth wheel towed by a F350 dually, and then a 36ft Fleetwood Gas engine into Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper etc. East to West and North to South, through Yoho National Park, Coquihalla, Rogers Pass, Golden, Revelstoke, Crowsnest Pass and up through Kootneys is wonderful as well as another diversion route. During good weather it's always been a very beautiful easy drive. The very few windy sss bend/steeper bits we just avoid driving through in the dark from as much an animal highway safety point of view versus the roads. Just take your time and smell the roses enroute at many places which have so much to see and enjoy. It's a truly beautiful trip you are planning, with typically lots of wildlife sightings depending on time of year. On your way up to Jasper from Lake Louise area, think it's Hwy 93 stop at the Icefields Parkway - often folks might boondock there overnight we've seen. I think Brewsters are the tour operators there. Enjoy, you've got everything in your favour right now for a trip to this side of the border = great exchange rate and lower fuel prices, albeit Canada is higher than the USA on fuel for sure. Does this Canuck sound jealous? LOL. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jimalberta Posted February 24, 2015 Report Share Posted February 24, 2015 I agree with everyone above. Try to avoid driving at night, lots of deer and elk get hit every night , and you dont want to miss any of the beautiful scenery anyways. Oh ya and make sure you know how to brake properly coming down mountain passes. Slow and easy. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
irish1348 Posted March 1, 2015 Author Report Share Posted March 1, 2015 Thank you all so very much. I haven't made the final decision, but I truly want to try this. I have a friend who lives in Bonnyville, and she thinks I would really enjoy the trip. I appreciate everyone's help and advice. Thank you! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
bruce t Posted March 2, 2015 Report Share Posted March 2, 2015 IMHO the drive from Banff to Jasper is one of the most scenic anywhere. Period. http://www.icefieldsparkway.ca/ Take your time. Pull over and take it all in as often as you can. By the time you will get there the hills wont be an issue. regards Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
jhayes Posted March 3, 2015 Report Share Posted March 3, 2015 I second Bruce T's statement! I have traveled all 50 states and most of Canada and I have not found a drive any more scenic than the Ice Fields Parkway between Banff and Jasper, Don't miss it! I've drove it 4 times and will do it a couple more. Jerry Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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