Calgary is a fantastic base for exploring some of Alberta’s best day trips, with many scenic spots just a short drive away. Between the Canadian Rockies and the rolling prairies, Calgary offers easy access to places with stunning mountain views, unique landscapes, and plenty of outdoor adventures.
You can spend a day exploring Alberta’s natural beauty, from turquoise lakes to rugged badlands, and return to the comfort of the city by evening. This makes Calgary one of the best places for travellers who want to experience the outdoors without a long journey.
Within a short distance from Calgary, you’ll find everything from world-renowned parks like Banff and Lake Louise to fascinating historical sites like Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump. Each destination has its own unique attractions, from hiking and canoeing to learning about Indigenous history.
I will share with you the top 10 unmissable day trips from Calgary, covering everything from scenic parks and historic villages to must-visit landmarks and hidden gems perfect for families, solo travellers, and adventure seekers.
1. Banff National Park
Banff National Park is one of the most popular and scenic day trips near Calgary. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located just 90 minutes away by car. This park is Canada’s oldest national park and is well-known for its breathtaking mountain views, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife.
As you approach the town of Banff, you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, lush forests, and stunning landscapes that make Banff a must-see destination. It’s the perfect spot for those wanting a fun day trip from Calgary with plenty to see and do.
One of the top highlights in Banff is the Banff Upper Hot Springs. Here, visitors can soak in natural, mineral-rich waters while enjoying views of Mount Rundle, providing a relaxing experience for all ages.
Another historic attraction is the Cave and Basin National Historic Site, where you can explore hot springs that were first discovered in the late 1800s and learn about the park’s history. Banff also offers numerous hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging hikes, allowing everyone to experience the beauty of the area in their own way.
After a day of exploring, the town of Banff has plenty of cozy spots to unwind. Visitors can browse through local shops, and enjoy a meal at one of the top Banff’s restaurants like Sky Bistro on the top of Sulphur Mountain which can be accessed through the Banff Gondola.
2. Lake Louise
Lake Louise is just a two-hour drive from Calgary, it is one of the best day trips from Calgary and a must-visit in the Canadian Rockies. Known for its stunning turquoise waters surrounded by towering mountain peaks, this lake offers a picture-perfect setting that draws visitors from around the world.
The lake’s beautiful colour is due to the rock flour that flows into it from nearby glaciers, making it one of the most iconic and photographed places in Canada, including Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
In the summer, visitors can enjoy canoeing on Lake Louise, a peaceful way to take in the surrounding views of the Rocky Mountains. Canoe rentals are available on-site, giving travellers the chance to glide across the water and admire the towering peaks from a unique perspective. For those who prefer staying on land, the area has several scenic trails, including paths around the lake and more challenging hikes up to scenic viewpoints. Exploring these trails provides a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Lake Louise and its surrounding wilderness.
During the winter, Lake Louise transforms into a snowy paradise, and the frozen lake becomes a popular spot for ice skating. The village of Lake Louise is also nearby, where visitors can warm up with hot cocoa, browse local shops, or grab a meal at one of the cozy eateries.
3. Drumheller and the Badlands
Drumheller and the Badlands are just 1.5 hours from Calgary and are one of the most popular day trips from Calgary. Known for their unique, desert-like landscapes, these Canadian Badlands offer a completely different environment from the mountains and forests surrounding Calgary.
The region is famous for its dramatic rock formations and ancient river valleys, which give visitors the feeling of stepping into another world. This makes Drumheller an ideal place to explore Alberta’s natural diversity and history.
One of the top things to do in Drumheller is to visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum, which houses one of the world’s most extensive dinosaur fossil collections. This museum offers interactive exhibits, fossils, and information on Alberta’s ancient past, it is a fascinating spot for both adults and kids. A tour from Calgary to Drumheller offers the perfect mix of education and adventure.
In addition, do not miss Tyra, the world’s largest dinosaur! Towering at 86 feet (25 meters) and 4.5 times bigger than a real T-Rex, she offers incredible views from her mouth, which holds up to 12 people. Climb 106 stairs to reach the top and enjoy Drumheller from above. It weighs 65 tonnes and stretches 151 feet, visiting this iconic attraction is a must-do for visitors to Drumheller!
Besides the museum and Tyra, visitors can also enjoy the beautiful hiking trails that wind through the badlands, which offer close-up views of unique rock formations, hoodoos, Horseshoe Canyon, and other interesting landforms. Hiking in this region allows you to experience the stark beauty of the badlands while discovering more about Alberta’s natural heritage.
4. Kananaskis Country
Kananaskis Country is only a 1-hour drive from Calgary, making it an easy and rewarding day trip for nature lovers. Known for its expansive wilderness and stunning mountain vistas, Kananaskis offers a peaceful escape from the city. The area is rich with rugged landscapes, clear lakes, and towering peaks, creating an ideal spot to experience the best of Alberta’s outdoors.
Hiking is one of the top activities in Kananaskis, with trails ranging from beginner-friendly paths to more challenging routes that lead to scenic lookouts. The area also draws mountain bikers, with trails that wind through forests and offer thrilling rides. For a more relaxed visit, the many picnic spots scattered around Kananaskis are perfect for enjoying a meal with family or friends in a beautiful natural setting.
Kananaskis also offers other outdoor activities, such as camping, fishing, and even a golf course surrounded by mountains. Many visitors also enjoy spotting wildlife, as the area is home to deer, elk, and sometimes even bears.
5. Canmore
Canmore is a 1-hour drive from Calgary, it is an ideal choice for a quick and enjoyable day trip. This charming town is located in the Canadian Rockies, surrounded by stunning mountain views and natural beauty.
Canmore has a welcoming atmosphere with a blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure, making it perfect for visitors who want a peaceful yet active day away from the city.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Canmore. The town is known for its scenic hiking trails, which vary from easy walks to more challenging routes, all offering beautiful views of the mountains and valleys. The riverside trails are especially popular, providing a relaxing way to take in the scenery along the Bow River.
Canmore’s downtown area is also worth exploring. The town is filled with unique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes where visitors can browse local products or grab a coffee. You’ll find everything from handmade crafts to outdoor gear, perfect for souvenirs or gifts.
6. Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump historic site
Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a unique day trip in southern Alberta, located just a 2 hour drive from Calgary. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a fascinating place to learn about Indigenous history and culture in Alberta.
The site has been preserved for thousands of years and showcases how the Plains Indigenous peoples hunted bison by guiding them over cliffs. It’s a rare chance to explore one of the world’s oldest and best-preserved buffalo jumps.
A visit to Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump starts at the interpretive center, which offers a detailed look into Indigenous traditions, tools, and stories related to the bison hunt. The center has several exhibits that explain how this unique hunting method was used and why it was so important to Indigenous life. Visitors can also view artifacts, listen to stories, and learn about the cultural significance of the buffalo to Indigenous peoples, giving a deeper understanding of Alberta’s history.
Outside the interpretive center, guests can explore trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking the historic jump site and the surrounding plains. The beautiful scenery and well-maintained trails make it a relaxing and educational experience. Visiting Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump is a unique opportunity to connect with Alberta’s past and appreciate the rich Indigenous culture that still influences the region today.
7. Elbow Falls
Elbow Falls is a beautiful and quick getaway, located just a 45-minute drive from Calgary. The falls are known for its picturesque waterfall surrounded by dense forest, Elbow Falls offers a peaceful escape into nature. The falls are a popular spot for visitors who want to enjoy a relaxing day surrounded by Alberta’s natural beauty without travelling far.
The area around Elbow Falls is perfect for easy hikes along well-marked trails that are suitable for all ages. The trails lead to several viewpoints, providing different perspectives of the waterfall and its forested setting. For those who enjoy photography, Elbow Falls is a great spot to capture Alberta’s landscape, especially in the fall when the leaves turn vibrant colours or in winter when the falls freeze, creating a stunning winter scene.
8. Waterton Lakes National Park
Waterton Lakes National Park is a rewarding day trip from Calgary, located about 2.5 hours away by car. The park is known for its rugged landscapes, colourful wildflowers, and abundant wildlife, this park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
Waterton Lakes is part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which makes it an especially unique destination. The park’s stunning views, combined with its rich ecosystem, provide an unforgettable experience for visitors.
There are numerous hiking trails in Waterton Lakes National Park, ranging from easy paths to more challenging routes. Hikes like the Bear’s Hump Trail provide panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Along with hiking, the park is a popular spot for wildlife spotting; you might see deer, bighorn sheep, and even black bears.
For those who enjoy a scenic drive, the Waterton Lakes scenic drive offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities along the way. The vibrant wildflowers, especially when visiting in spring and summer, add a splash of colour to the park’s rugged terrain.
9. Dinosaur Provincial Park
The Dinosaur Provincial Park is a fascinating day trip destination located 2.5 hours from Calgary. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its unique landscape and its rich collection of dinosaur fossils, making it a favourite spot for both nature lovers and history enthusiasts.
Unlike Drumheller, which is well-known for its dinosaur museum, Dinosaur Provincial Park offers an immersive outdoor experience where you can explore the land where dinosaurs once roamed. With its rugged badlands and scenic beauty, this park offers a glimpse into Alberta’s prehistoric past.
The park features a Public Scenic Loop Road with outdoor fossil displays where visitors can see real dinosaur fossils in their natural setting. Alongside the road, there are walking trails and viewpoints that highlight the park’s stunning badland landscapes.
The Visitor Centre provides even more information with a small exhibit gallery, a theatre, and a gift shop. There’s no entrance fee for the park itself, but a small fee applies to the exhibit gallery. Visitors looking for a more in-depth experience can join guided bus tours and hikes, which are available for an additional fee.
Calgary – Dinosaur Provincial Park
10. Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka is a stunning glacial lake located about 1.5 hours away from Calgary, it is a convenient day trip for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Known as the “Water of the Spirits” in the Nakoda language, Lake Minnewanka offers breathtaking views and a rich cultural history within Banff National Park. Surrounded by rugged mountains, this lake is the second longest in the Canadian Rockies and has a deep, clear blue colour that reflects its glacial origins.
Visitors to the lake can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. Boating is popular here, with boat rentals and guided cruises available in the summer, giving guests a chance to see the lake’s full length of 21 kilometres (13 miles) and explore its secluded coves.
For those interested in hiking, there are scenic trails around the lake and into Stewart Canyon, which offer peaceful paths through dense forests and views of the Cascade River. Wildlife spotting is also common, as the area is home to deer, elk, and occasionally even bears.
Conclusion: Best day trips from Calgary
Exploring the top Calgary day trips opens up a world of adventure, from the stunning peaks of the Rockies to the fascinating landscapes of the Alberta badlands. Each destination offers a unique experience, making it easy to plan a road trip that suits every traveller.
Whether you’re a hiker searching for new trails, a fan of mountain biking, or simply looking to relax in nature, there’s a great day trip just a short drive from Calgary. Alberta’s natural beauty, from Banff National Park to Dinosaur Provincial Park, guarantees unforgettable scenery and exciting activities.
For those wanting a mix of adventure and culture, Alberta parks and historical sites provide the perfect balance. These day trips allow you to experience rich Indigenous history, outdoor sports, and peaceful nature all in one. With so many options nearby, Calgary is an ideal starting point for exploring Alberta’s beautiful landscapes and discovering why these destinations are some of Canada’s best.
