A Crater Lake to Banff roadtrip offers an epic journey through diverse landscapes, from the deep blue waters of Crater Lake to the majestic Canadian Rockies. This 1,455-mile (2,342 km) adventure spans four days, crossing through Oregon, Washington, Idaho, and into Alberta, Canada. Travelers will experience breathtaking natural wonders, charming towns, and unforgettable outdoor activities. This comprehensive guide provides essential information on routes, stops, accommodations, and travel tips to ensure an unforgettable road trip experience.
What is the Best Route for a Crater Lake to Banff Roadtrip?
The optimal route for a Crater Lake to Banff roadtrip follows these key segments:
- Crater Lake National Park to Bend, OR (210 miles)
- Bend, OR to Spokane, WA (470 miles)
- Spokane, WA to Coeur d’Alene, ID (35 miles)
- Coeur d’Alene, ID to Banff, AB (740 miles)
This route offers a balance of efficient travel and scenic stops, allowing you to experience the best of the Pacific Northwest and Canadian Rockies.
What are the Must-See Stops Along the Way?
Day 1: Crater Lake to Bend
- Mount Shasta: A majestic volcanic peak offering stunning views and hiking trails.
- Bend, OR: Known for its outdoor recreation and craft beer scene.
Day 2: Bend to Spokane
- Columbia River Gorge: A scenic wonder with waterfalls and panoramic vistas.
- Spokane, WA: Explore Riverfront Park and the historic downtown area.
Day 3: Spokane to Coeur d’Alene
- Lake Coeur d’Alene: Enjoy water activities or a scenic lake cruise.
- Schweitzer Mountain: Offers hiking in summer and skiing in winter.
Day 4: Coeur d’Alene to Banff
- Kootenay National Park: Features scenic drives and diverse hiking trails.
- Radium Hot Springs: Relax in natural hot springs before entering Banff.
How Should I Plan My Itinerary?
Here’s a suggested 4-day itinerary for your Crater Lake to Banff roadtrip:
| Day | Start | End | Distance | Key Stops |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Crater Lake, OR | Bend, OR | 210 miles | Mount Shasta |
| 2 | Bend, OR | Spokane, WA | 470 miles | Columbia River Gorge |
| 3 | Spokane, WA | Coeur d’Alene, ID | 35 miles | Lake Coeur d’Alene, Schweitzer Mountain |
| 4 | Coeur d’Alene, ID | Banff, AB | 740 miles | Kootenay National Park, Radium Hot Springs |
This itinerary allows for a balanced mix of driving and exploration, ensuring you don’t miss the key attractions along the route.
What are the Best Scenic Viewpoints on this Roadtrip?
Don’t miss these breathtaking viewpoints during your journey:
- Crater Lake Rim Drive: Offers 360-degree views of the lake and surrounding landscape.
- Columbia River Gorge Vista House: Panoramic views of the Columbia River.
- Lake Coeur d’Alene Scenic Byway: Stunning lake and mountain vistas.
- Mistaya Canyon (Banff National Park): A short hike leads to a dramatic canyon view.
- Moraine Lake Rockpile Trail: The famous “Twenty Dollar View” of the turquoise lake.
What Hiking Trails Should I Consider?
For outdoor enthusiasts, consider these hiking options:
- Mirror Lake Trail (Crater Lake): An easy 0.5-mile loop with lake views.
- Multnomah Falls Trail (Columbia River Gorge): A moderate 2.4-mile hike to Oregon’s tallest waterfall.
- Tubbs Hill (Coeur d’Alene): A 2-mile loop offering lake and city views.
- Johnston Canyon Trail (Banff): A popular 3.4-mile trail featuring waterfalls and catwalks.
What are the Accommodation Options?
Here are some recommended accommodations for each stop:
- Bend, OR: McMenamins Old St. Francis School (unique hotel in a former Catholic schoolhouse)
- Spokane, WA: The Historic Davenport Hotel (luxurious downtown landmark)
- Coeur d’Alene, ID: The Coeur d’Alene Resort (lakefront resort with golf course)
- Banff, AB: Fairmont Banff Springs (iconic “Castle in the Rockies”)
What Travel Documents Do I Need?
For this international roadtrip, ensure you have:
- Valid passport
- Driver’s license
- Vehicle registration and insurance
- Proof of vehicle ownership or rental agreement
- National park passes (for both U.S. and Canadian parks)
How Can I Save Money on this Roadtrip?
To keep costs down on your Crater Lake to Banff roadtrip:
- Book accommodations in advance for better rates.
- Pack snacks and consider picnic lunches to save on food costs.
- Use a gas price comparison app to find the cheapest fuel along your route.
- Consider purchasing an annual national park pass if visiting multiple parks.
- Look for free activities and hiking trails in each destination.
What are the Best Dining Experiences Along the Route?
Savor these culinary highlights during your journey:
- Bend, OR: Deschutes Brewery for craft beer and pub fare
- Spokane, WA: Wild Sage Bistro for farm-to-table Northwest cuisine
- Coeur d’Alene, ID: Beverly’s at The Coeur d’Alene Resort for fine dining with lake views
- Banff, AB: The Bison Restaurant for locally-sourced Rocky Mountain cuisine
How Should I Prepare My Vehicle for this Roadtrip?
Ensure your vehicle is ready for the long journey:
- Schedule a maintenance check before departure.
- Check and replace fluids if necessary.
- Inspect tires and ensure proper inflation.
- Pack an emergency kit with jumper cables, flashlight, and first-aid supplies.
- Consider a roadside assistance plan for peace of mind.
What are the Best Times to Visit Crater Lake and Banff?
The best times for a Crater Lake to Banff roadtrip are:
- Summer (July-August): Ideal weather, but expect crowds and higher prices.
- Early Fall (September-October): Fewer crowds, pleasant weather, and fall foliage.
- Late Spring (May-June): Good weather, wildflowers, but some high-elevation roads may still be closed.
Avoid winter unless you’re prepared for snow and potential road closures.
By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared for an unforgettable Crater Lake to Banff roadtrip. Remember to stay flexible, respect local regulations, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest and Canadian Rockies.
References:
1. https://thedownlo.com/national-parks/the-ultimate-banff-itinerary-four-iconic-parks-in-five-days/
2. https://www.trunghoangphotography.com/blog/grand-teton-banff-crater-lake-roadtrip
3. https://www.paradoxtravels.com/post/pacnw-national-parks-road-trip