Montreal to Banff Road Trip: Compare our 4 Itineraries

Planning a Montreal to Banff road trip? Whether you’re racing to the Rockies in record time or wanting to turn the drive into a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, choosing the right route makes all the difference — especially when travelling with family.

This guide breaks down 4 sample itineraries, each designed with realistic driving days, family-friendly stops, and plenty of flexibility. From quick 5-day routes for those short on time to bucket list-worthy 13-day journeys packed with scenic detours, there’s a perfect route for every type of traveller.

💡 And if you’re starting from Toronto, Ottawa, or even the U.S., no worries — these routes can easily be adapted for your starting point. 

Ready to hit the road? Let’s find your ideal Montreal to Banff road trip route:

1. In a hurry – 5 days to Banff: A fast-paced option to reach the Rockies quickly. Expect long driving days with limited sightseeing along the way.

2. Balanced – 7 days to Banff: This option allows time for a few key stops without significantly slowing the pace. It’s a good balance between driving and exploring.

3. See more – 10 days to Banff: A more relaxed pace with time to visit several highlights along the route. Perfect for families who want to experience more of the journey without rushing.

4. Bucket list trip – 13 days to Banff: Designed for those who want to make the most of the drive, this option includes extra detours, scenic routes, and family-friendly stops along the way.

In a hurry – 5 days from Montreal to Banff:

⭐ Best for: Road trippers who prioritize getting to Banff quickly over sightseeing along the way

This itinerary is for those who want to reach the Rockies as quickly as possible. It’s a fast-paced drive across Canada, covering long distances each day with minimal sightseeing stops. While there won’t be much time for detours, the route still offers scenic views, especially along Lake Superior and through the Prairies. Be prepared for long hours on the road, start early each morning, and plan rest stops strategically.

• Day 1: Montreal > Sault Ste Marie 🚘 Driving distance: 991 km
• Day 2: Sault Ste Marie > Thunder Bay 🚘 Driving distance: 700 km
• Day 3: Thunder Bay > Winnipeg 🚘 Driving distance: 705 km
• Day 4: Winnipeg > Swift Current 🚘 Driving distance: 818 km
• Day 5: Swift Current > Banff 🚘 Driving distance: 638 km

Balanced – 7 days to Banff: 

⭐ Best for: Families who want to see more than just the highway, but still keep the trip efficient. 

This itinerary offers a good balance between driving and exploring, making it ideal for families who want to see more along the way without adding too much extra time. Each day covers reasonable driving distances, with time for a few key stops at scenic locations, parks, and small towns. It’s a great option if you want to experience a taste of Ontario, the Prairies, and beyond, while still reaching Banff within a week.

• Day 1: Montreal > North Bay 🚘 Driving distance: 557 km
• Day 2: North Bay > Sault Ste Marie 🚘 Driving distance: 435 km
• Day 3: Sault Ste. Marie > Thunder Bay 🚘 Driving distance: 700 km
• Day 4: Thunder Bay > Kenora 🚘 Driving distance: 492 km
• Day 5: Kenora > Brandon 🚘 Driving distance: 432 km
• Day 6: Brandon > Swift Current 🚘 Driving distance: 562 km
• Day 7: Swift Current > Banff 🚘 Driving distance: 638 km

See more – 10 days to get to Banff from Montreal:

⭐ Best for: Families who want to see more than just the highway and enjoy a slower pace with more stops. 

This itinerary is designed for families who want to experience more of the journey without feeling rushed. With shorter driving days and time to explore several highlights along the way, this is a great option if you want to turn the drive into part of the adventure. From scenic lakes and small towns to fun roadside stops, there’s time to make memories along the route before arriving in Banff.

• Day 1: Montreal > North Bay 🚘 Driving distance: 577 km
• Day 2: North Bay > Sault Ste Marie 🚘 Driving distance: 435 km
• Day 3: Sault Ste Marie > Marathon 🚘 Driving distance: 410 km
• Day 4: Marathon > Thunder Bay 🚘 Driving distance: 300 km
• Day 5: Thunder Bay > Kenora 🚘 Driving distance: 492 km
• Day 6: Kenora > Winnipeg 🚘 Driving distance: 209 km
• Day 7: Winnipeg > Indian Head 🚘 Driving distance: 503 km
• Day 8: Indian Head > Maple Creek 🚘 Driving distance: 545 km
• Day 9: Maple Creek > Brooks 🚘 Driving distance: 209 km
• Day 10: Brooks > Banff 🚘 Driving distance: 312 km

Bucket list trip – 13 days from Montreal to Banff:

⭐ Best for: Travellers who want to see as much as possible, explore off-the-beaten-path stops, and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime cross-country adventure. 

This itinerary is for those who want to make the most of the drive, turning the journey into a full road trip experience. With extra detours and shorter driving days, there’s plenty of time to stop at scenic lookouts, historic sites, and unique small towns along the way. From the shores of Lake Superior to the badlands of Drumheller, this route showcases the best of the Trans-Canada Highway and beyond.

• Day 1: Montreal > North Bay 🚘 Driving distance: 577 km
• Day 2: North Bay > Sault Ste Marie 🚘 Driving distance: 435 km
• Day 3: Sault Ste Marie > Wawa 🚘 Driving distance: 227 km
• Day 4: Wawa > Terrace Bay 🚘 Driving distance: 260 km
• Day 5: Terrace Bay > Thunder Bay 🚘 Driving distance: 219 km
• Day 6: Thunder Bay > Kenora 🚘 Driving distance: 492 km
• Day 7: Kenora > Winnipeg 🚘 Driving distance: 209 km
• Day 8: Winnipeg > Indian Head 🚘 Driving distance: 503 km
• Day 7: Indian Head > Swift Current 🚘 Driving distance: 316 km
• Day 10: Swift Current > Medicine Hat 🚘 Driving distance: 222 km
• Day 11: Medicine Hat > Brooks 🚘 Driving distance: 110 km
• Day 12: Brooks > Drumheller 🚘 Driving distance: 141 km
• Day 13: Drumheller > Banff 🚘 Driving distance: 249 km

Conclusion

Driving from Montreal to Banff is an unforgettable way to experience Canada’s vast and diverse landscapes. But it’s a long drive. It’s more than 3,600 km, so you’ll need to decide how long you have to do the drive. You opt for the fast-paced 5-day drive, a more balanced 7-day journey, or a scenic 13-day adventure.

There’s a route to suit every travel style.

With well-planned stops, realistic driving days, and family-friendly attractions along the way, your road trip will be just as memorable as your time in Banff. No matter which itinerary you choose, one thing is certain—you’re in for an incredible cross-country journey.So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to explore Canada’s breathtaking landscapes from Montreal to Banff.