Paul_H

My wife and I will be heading from Silver Star in Vernon to Lake Louise on or around March 1 2006. We're tossing up between flying and driving, but if there's not a huge difference we'd rather drive and take in some scenery. However, we keep getting different opinions on driving time and were wondering if anyone had done that drive. Also, any advice on the most scenic route/safest route/good places to stop for some food, etc, would be most welcome.

Cheers,
Paul

laverendrye

At that time of year, there's only one route that I would recommend. Take Hwy 97 to Sicamous and then follow the Trans-Canada (Hwy 1) to Lake Louise. It should take about 5 to 5 1/2 hours without stops, providing the weather and roads are good. There is always the possibility of road closures due to storms or avalanches, particularly the Rogers Pass section, but generally the highway is kept open and clear.

On the Trans-Canada, you will find places to stop for food and gas at Sicamous, Revelstoke, Rogers Pass, Golden and Field. Revelstoke is about half-way, so that would be your best bet.

If you fly, Kelowna to Calgary is a bit less than an hour, and Lake Louise is about 2 hours drive from the Calgary airport. Counting the time it will take to get from Silver Star to Kelowna, check-in time,and pickup up baggage and rental car, you would be close to 5 hours for the trip.

Paul_H

Thanks for that. Looks like I'll be driving.