canadian rockies september weather?
 

Thinking of doing a Seattle to Banff etc. driving trip one of the last 2 weeks of September. How long is enough time? Is the weather usually good enough around that time of year?

I think it is the nicest time of year to do that drive. A week is plenty of time to do the drive. I don't know what route you were planning but you could do the Cascade loop one way and go through the Okanagan and perhaps return on the lower route visiting Radium etc. Lots of options.

Do you think there is enough time in 7 full days to do 1-2 days seattle, 1-2 days vancouver, 3-5 days canadian rockies national park(s)? Starting and ending in Seattle. I'm targeting last week of September now.

7 days might be tight. Vancouver is a beautiful city, however, you will want the extra time once you get to the mountains. You can drive from Vancouver, through the Okanagan. I would absolutely, definitely recommend a night at Emerald Lake, which is just off Hwy 1 at Field, B.C. (Field is just inside the B.C./Alberta border). Emerald Lake Lodge is fantastic! My husband and I have travelled all over the world and Emerald Lake is one of the most spectacular sights you will ever see. And no crowds! (We came very close to getting married there - that's how much we love it.) From Emerald Lake you can drive right into Banff, stopping at Lake Louise on the way. Before you go to Lake Louise - take the side trip up to Morraine Lake (also called Valley of the Ten Peaks). It is spectacular. Lots to see and do in Banff, but 2 or 3 days should be enough. We always stay at Tunnel Mountain Resort - very reasonable and great rooms - ask for one of the new rooms. As far as weather goes - September is a great time. The crowds have gone and the sun shines all the time. I have been there the 2nd week of September before and there has been snow - however, it's at the higher altitudes and should not affect the roads - it will just make those snow capped peaks even nicer! Enjoy - it's a beautiful part of the world.

In 2000 we stayed é night in Seattle-then to Vancouver 2 nights-then to Wells gray park-then Jasper2 nights-Columbia icefields to Banff 2 nights we then went on to Wateron lakes and Glacier nat.park. THis was from Sept 7 to Sept 15. The weather was great but dont forget a parka and some sweaters.PAul

7 days is too few

Check out the Canadian forum-very knowledgable poster Judy in Calgary (I think she even has her own website) She definitely has all the answers!

thats judy_in_calgary