We went on an epic road trip from Winnipeg to Vancouver. Here’s what we discovered.
I love everything about road trips: the wind in my hair and the sun on my face while nostalgic music plays on the airwaves—even the little mishaps and bumps on the road.
Take it from me. Bad choices make fantastic stories and valuable lessons!
Lucky for you, I’ve gone on enough road trips from Winnipeg to Vancouver to help you plan a fun adventure. No matter the route you take, it’s going to be a visual feast with each winding road leading to turquoise-colored lakes, rolling hills, and mountains.
There’s so much to see and do on this cross-country adventure. And I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
So, buckle up!
How far is Vancouver from Winnipeg by car?
A direct drive from Winnipeg to Vancouver is roughly 2,302 km. If you follow the Trans-Canada Highway, the drive will take around 24 to 28 hours, depending on traffic.
Is sightseeing part of your plan? If it is, you will definitely be spending more than 3 overnight stops on this trip.
We made the most out of our time by plotting all the scenic stops and booking the accommodations in advance.
Best Time to Go on a Road Trip from Winnipeg to Vancouver
Summer is the best time to go on a road trip from Winnipeg to Vancouver. Good weather makes the roads safer to drive on, but the downside is heavy traffic on the highways.
Before and during a road trip, you should always check the weather conditions before hitting the road. It can help you plan or adjust your route for a safe trip.
Best Routes from Winnipeg to Vancouver
The best road trip route from Winnipeg to Vancouver is via the Trans-Canada Highway. It’s navigable, picturesque, and easy, ideal for newbie roadsters.
Northern Route
To kickstart your journey, follow the Trans-Canada Highway 1 until you reach Portage La Praire. Then, you make a right, following the Trans-Canada Highway 16 through Saskatoon, Edmonton, and Chip Lake.
Next, you’ll go southwest into Jasper National Park. After passing the Blue River and the Chu Chua Provincial Park, you’ll go through Kamloops, which is 4 hours away from Vancouver.
Central Route
Hop on the Trans-Canada Highway 1 when you leave Winnipeg, which will take you through Regina, Calgary, and Banff. From there, follow Bow River all the way to Castle Mountain, then stay on Highway 93 until you reach Kootenay National Park.
Once you arrive in Radium Springs, take Highway 95 to get to Golden. Next, hop back on the Trans-Canada Highway 1, which will take you through Revelstoke, Kamloops, and then Vancouver.
Southern Route
Starting from Winnipeg, make your way to Oak Bluff, and hop on the Red Coat Trail, passing Weyburn, Assiniboia, and Instow. Then, go south and cross the border to Montana.
After Montana, you can continue the journey to Glacier National Park and Columbia Falls before going south to Creston, Elmo, Spokane, and Seattle. From here, Vancouver is a 3-hour drive away.
Things to See on a Road Trip from Winnipeg to Vancouver
Royal Alberta Museum
— Media credit: gboutestein
Got kids in tow? Take them to the Royal Alberta Museum’s Children’s Gallery, where hands-on play is encouraged at every corner—which also makes it the perfect pit stop to burn off any excess energy before you hit the road.
With colorful exhibits and interactive displays inspired by Alberta’s natural landscapes and cultural scenes, this warm, inviting space will nurture your child’s curiosity through play. Your kids can dig for hidden objects, create art, and watch special performances.
And, of course, for the kids at heart, the museum has a pretty solid collection of fossils, ranging from mammals and mammoths to dinosaurs. It never fails to impress!
Banff National Park
— Media credit: visit.banff
The views of the rocky mountains aren’t the only thing that will take your breath away when you visit Banff National Park. The Lake Agnes Trail, which starts from Lake Louise and ends at the Lake Agnes Tea House, is a steep one that will leave you out of breath.
Not to worry, stunning views of the vivid turquoise waters of Lake Lousie will keep you going. And a hot cup of chocolate waiting for you at the end of the trail will make the entire hike worth it.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing time, you can soak in the hot springs, get a facial at the spa, or set up a picnic by the lake.
Revelstoke Mountain Resort
Revelstoke Mountain Resort is a winter wonderland known for its consistent snowfall and epic ski terrain. Home to North America’s longest descent, you’ll see many pro skiers and riders whizzing down these slopes.
But if sliding down a snow-capped mountain with two sticks isn’t your thing, head off to their small and charming ski town. You’ll find plenty of apres-ski pit stops with locally sourced food and drink to warm you up—and plenty of retail therapy!
There’s a wide array of lodging options near the mountain so you can hit the sack right after a long day. For luxury, condominium-style rooms and premium amenities, you can stay at The Sutton Place Hotel, which is just a few feet away from the gondola.
Flathead Lake State Park
— Media credit: flatheadlakemontana
If you’re passing through the Big Sky state, you might as well pitch a tent by the shore of Flathead Lake and spend a night under the stars. Between October and March, camp at the northeast corner for the best views of the Northern Lights.
You can also camp beyond the designated campgrounds to save a couple of bucks. Just pick your campsite wisely because there are a ton of grizzlies and black bears in the area!
Fun abounds at this state park all year round. But while in Montana, you shouldn’t miss the chance to go horseback riding, canoeing, hiking, and whitewater rafting.
Where to Stay in Vancouver
Cambie Hostel
Cambie Hostel is a popular destination for backpackers because it offers modern comforts at an affordable price. During your stay, you’ll make new friends from all parts of the world.
Housed in a centuries-old building, there’s a lingering feel of the old world inside the hostel. It gives the rooms and the shared spaces a warm, understated feel.
What we like the most is how incredibly well-connected it is to the city, making it easier for you to explore Vancouver on foot. But if you prefer guided tours, all you have to do is ask the front desk!
Blue Horizon
Located near shopping centers and restaurants, Blue Horizon is the perfect hotel for first-time visitors who actually want to be out and about. It’s also a stone’s throw away from Stanley Park, English Bay, Davie Village, and other must-see attractions.
Every single room has a private balcony where you can sip your morning coffee and enjoy million-dollar views of the English Bay. And yes—the room comes with a coffee maker.
More importantly, they have a pet-friendly policy, so your fur babies can tag along with you.
Fairmont Pacific Rim
The Fairmont Pacific Rim is a favorite among celebrities and athletes for a good reason. With rotating in-house art exhibits, a world-class spa, and Michelin-recognized restaurants, it has a little bit of everything, so you won’t have to wander too far.
All 367 rooms are outfitted with Stearns & Foster beds, which are carefully designed to provide support and all-night comfort. You’ll sleep soundly after an exhausting journey.
The best part? You’ll wake up to stunning and unobstructed views of Vancouver’s Coal Harbour, Stanley Park, and the North Shore Mountains.