Motorcycle Road Trip from Spokane to Calgary
Embarking on a motorcycle road trip from Spokane to Calgary is an adventure filled with scenic landscapes and memorable pit stops. The journey covers approximately 400 miles and offers a blend of urban settings, mountain passes, and picturesque rural areas. Pack your gear, ensure your bike is in top shape, and get ready for an unforgettable ride.
From Spokane, head north on US Route 2. This route will take you through the charming small towns of Washington and offer stunning views of the Pend Oreille River. Make sure you adhere to speed limits and always have your route planned out.
“The open road is calling, and there’s no better way to answer than on a motorcycle. Feel the wind, enjoy the thrill, and embrace the freedom.” – Unknown
- Newport, WA: Your first noteworthy stop is Newport. This small town is perfect for a quick break and a drink.
- Sandpoint, ID: Next, ride to Sandpoint. Nestled by Lake Pend Oreille, it’s an excellent spot for a scenic lunch break.
- Bonners Ferry, ID: As you continue, Bonners Ferry welcomes you with a historic downtown area and friendly locals. Crossing the border into Canada requires some planning. Ensure you have your passport and be prepared for a brief stop at customs. Once you’re in Canada, follow Route 95 towards Cranbrook, British Columbia. This part of the journey is marked by serene mountain views that will make every mile worth it. Every twist and turn of this route promises excitement and breathtaking vistas. So, rev up your bike and savor every moment of this remarkable road trip!
| Stop | Location | Distance from Spokane | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Newport, WA | 56 miles | Quick break and a drink |
| 2 | Sandpoint, ID | 86 miles | Scenic lunch break by Lake Pend Oreille |
| 3 | Bonners Ferry, ID | 124 miles | Historic downtown area |
| 4 | Cranbrook, BC | 178 miles | Serene mountain views |
Scenic Spots You Can’t Miss
As you rev up your engine and hit the open road from Spokane to Calgary, you’ll find yourself surrounded by endless natural beauty. The journey is not just about the destination; it’s about the incredible vistas and hidden gems you’ll discover along the way. Here are some scenic spots that promise to elevate your road trip experience:
Lake Coeur d’Alene
Just a short ride from Spokane, this pristine lake in Idaho is a fantastic first stop. With its turquoise waters and wooded shores, Lake Coeur d’Alene offers numerous spots for a quick swim, picnic, or simply stretching your legs while soaking in the picturesque views.
Glacier National Park
Crossing into Montana, you can’t miss Glacier National Park. Known for its rugged mountains, spectacular glaciers, and breathtaking vistas, this park offers hundreds of miles of trails and scenic routes that are perfect for motorcycle enthusiasts. Don’t forget to ride the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road for unforgettable panoramic views.
Banff National Park
As you approach the Canadian border, Banff National Park should be at the top of your list. Home to emerald lakes, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife, Banff is a scenery lover’s paradise. Consider a stop at Lake Louise or Moraine Lake for some awe-inspiring photography opportunities.
Jasper National Park
Continue north into Jasper National Park, where the rugged landscape opens up into impressive glaciers, waterfalls, and canyons. Jasper is less crowded than Banff but equally stunning, offering another great escape into the natural world. Check out the Icefields Parkway, a scenic route that connects both parks, providing endless photo ops and adventure opportunities.
Drumheller and the Badlands
As you make your way toward Calgary, detour slightly to check out Drumheller. Known as the Dinosaur Capital of the World, it offers a unique landscape of hoodoos and canyons. You can also visit the Royal Tyrrell Museum for a fascinating dive into prehistoric times.
With these scenic spots, your road trip from Spokane to Calgary will be an unforgettable adventure through some of North America’s most spectacular landscapes. So pack your gear, fuel up your bike, and let the journey be as memorable as the destination.
Kid-Friendly Adventures On The Road
As you cruise along from Spokane to Calgary, you’ll find plenty of kid-friendly adventures to keep young ones entertained and engaged. One prime stop is Silverwood Theme Park, located just north of Coeur d’Alene. This amusement park offers a mix of thrilling roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment that will surely make for unforgettable memories.
Another great pitstop is the Children’s Museum in Missoula. Interactive exhibits and hands-on activities allow kids to explore and learn while having fun. It’s a great way to break up the travel and give everyone a chance to stretch their legs.
Don’t miss out on Lake Louise. Nestled in Banff National Park, the lake offers breathtaking views and family-friendly hikes. Whether you’re into canoeing or just taking in the serene alpine scenery, it’s a great spot to unwind.
If your route takes you through Drumheller, the Royal Tyrrell Museum is a fantastic stop. Known for its remarkable dinosaur exhibits, the museum captivates visitors of all ages. Exploring the trails around the Badlands will also add an adventurous twist to your trip.
Consider scheduling stops at various campgrounds along the way. Many offer playgrounds, swimming pools, and open spaces for games and relaxation. The added bonus of a campfire and s’mores will make your journey even more memorable.
From thrilling rides to educational museums, your journey from Spokane to Calgary will be filled with countless opportunities for kid-friendly fun and excitement. Happy travels!
Keeping Your Dog Comfortable On The Journey
Your dog is part of the family, and ensuring their comfort during the journey is essential for a stress-free trip. Start by prepping a dedicated space in your sidecar or backpack. Make sure it’s spacious enough for your pup to sit, stand, and move around.
Water is crucial, especially on long rides. Pack a portable water bowl and plenty of fresh water, stopping regularly to offer drinks. Dogs can easily dehydrate, so keep an eye on them for signs of thirst.
Temperature control is another key element. If you’re riding through hot areas, plan your trip to include frequent breaks in shaded spots. Conversely, if you’re traversing cooler regions, ensure you have a blanket or dog jacket to keep your furry friend warm.
Don’t forget comfort items like their favorite toy or blanket. These familiar objects can significantly reduce anxiety and make the trip more pleasant for them. Lastly, carry a basic first-aid kit for pets. It’s better to be prepared for minor scrapes or insect bites.
By planning ahead and considering your dog’s needs, you’ll both enjoy the adventure from Spokane to Calgary!
FAQ’S
As you gear up for your motorcycle road trip from Spokane to Calgary, you likely have some questions. Below, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to ensure your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible. From must-see attractions to kid-friendly stops along the way, we’ve got you covered. Dive in to find answers to some of the most common inquiries from fellow adventurers.
What are the must-see attractions between Spokane and Calgary?
As you embark on your motorcycle adventure from Spokane to Calgary, there are several attractions that simply shouldn’t be missed. These stops not only offer breathtaking views but also make for excellent breaks to stretch your legs and revel in nature’s beauty.
Lake Coeur d’Alene: Begin your journey with a stop at Lake Coeur d’Alene in Idaho. Known for its shimmering waters and pristine beaches, this lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. You can take a scenic ride along the lake’s perimeter or even take a short cruise to soak up the serene environment.
Glacier National Park: As you make your way into Montana, a detour to Glacier National Park is highly recommended. This park is renowned for its rugged mountains, clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. You’ll want to explore the Going-to-the-Sun Road, an engineering marvel that offers panoramic views of the mountainous landscape.
Banff National Park: Once you cross into Canada, Banff National Park will likely be a highlight of your trip. Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, this park boasts stunning sights like Lake Louise and the Banff Hot Springs. You’ll find numerous trails to explore and endless photo opportunities.
Jasper National Park: North of Banff lies Jasper National Park. This park is less crowded but equally spectacular, featuring attractions like Athabasca Falls and the Icefields Parkway. Here, you can experience some of the most dramatic and beautiful vistas that Canada has to offer.
Drumheller and the Badlands: Eastward into Alberta, the town of Drumheller and its surrounding badlands offer a completely different kind of beauty. Known for its rich deposits of dinosaur fossils, the area provides a unique landscape of rugged terrain that looks like it’s been lifted straight out of a different era.
- Lake Coeur d’Alene’s: kayaking and hiking trails.
- Glacier National Park: drive along the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road.
- Banff’s: scenic viewpoints and natural hot springs.
- Jasper’s: quieter trails and waterfalls.
- Badlands: fascinating geological formations and dinosaur history.
Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination, so take your time, savor the scenery, and make memories at these unforgettable stops!
What scenic routes should I take from Spokane to Calgary?
Embarking on a motorcycle road trip from Spokane to Calgary offers an abundance of scenic routes that are sure to leave you breathless. One of the most popular routes is the journey through Lake Coeur d’Alene in northern Idaho. This picturesque lake is a natural gem with crystal-clear water and lush surroundings, perfect for a scenic pit stop or a picnic.
Next, consider cruising through Glacier National Park. Known for its rugged mountain scenery, glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife, this National Park provides an unparalleled visual feast. The Going-to-the-Sun Road is a must-ride, offering dramatic views that make every mile worth it.
As you cross into Canada, the Trans-Canada Highway (TCH) becomes your best friend. This highway stretches from the Pacific to the Atlantic, but the segment you’ll focus on navigates through British Columbia and Alberta. Riding along the TCH allows you to experience the breathtaking Canadian Rockies. The magnificent mountain ranges and forested landscapes offer plenty of photo opportunities.
Continuing along the TCH, you’ll find yourself approaching Banff National Park. This world-renowned park is a highlight of the journey with its stunning turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, and an array of wildlife. Plan to spend some time here to fully appreciate its beauty.
From Banff, it’s only a short ride to Jasper National Park. Often less crowded than Banff but equally spectacular, Jasper offers a more serene natural experience. The Icefields Parkway, connecting Banff and Jasper, is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. With its towering peaks, ancient glaciers, and verdant valleys, this route is a motorcyclist’s dream.
As you leave the national parks behind, the landscape transforms into the rugged beauty of the Alberta Badlands. The town of Drumheller and its surroundings offer unique geological formations and fascinating paleontological sites, including the renowned Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology.
Finally, after soaking in all these natural wonders, you’ll arrive in Calgary. Known for its vibrant culture, excellent cuisine, and friendly locals, Calgary serves as a great endpoint to a memorable road trip. Whether you’ve come for the scenery, the adventure, or the joy of riding, this route ensures you’ll experience the best of the Pacific Northwest and Southwestern Canada.
Are there any kid-friendly stops on the motorcycle road trip from Spokane to Calgary?
Absolutely! A motorcycle trip from Spokane to Calgary doesn’t mean you have to miss out on kid-friendly fun. Here are some ideal stops where you and your little ones can stretch your legs and enjoy the journey:
Silverwood Theme Park: Located near Coeur d’Alene, this is the Northwest’s largest theme park. With over 70 rides, including roller coasters and water slides, it’s a perfect stop to let the kids blow off steam.
Aerial Adventure Park at Whitefish Mountain Resort: Just outside Glacier National Park, this adventure park offers zip lines, ropes courses, and a range of outdoor activities suitable for kids of all ages. It’s an excellent way to combine fun and adventure.
Lake Louise: In Banff National Park, Lake Louise offers stunning turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain backdrops. Families can enjoy canoeing on the lake, casual hikes, or visit the nearby Lake Louise Gondola for a scenic ride up the mountain.
Royal Tyrrell Museum: Situated in Drumheller, this museum is renowned for its vast collection of dinosaur fossils. Interactive exhibits and life-sized dinosaur replicas make it both educational and fascinating for children.
Making these stops ensures that your motorcycle road trip is memorable for the whole family, combining scenic beauty with engaging activities suitable for kids. Safe travels!
