One of the key parts of this road trip was camping in the Rockies. We did a mix of camping and staying in hotels/motels/hostels, which allowed us to experience the outdoors while also having some comfort. Camping in the Rockies is a unique experience, with stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
We stayed in tents at several campgrounds, including Whistlers Campground in Jasper, which was affected by wildfires a year ago. The campground is located in a burned forest, which gives it a very calm and different feeling compared to other campgrounds. It’s much easier to see animals and the stars at night. Definitely the highlight of the trip for me.
We also camped in commercial campgrounds close to Revelstoke, as well as the Illecillewaet Campground in Glacier National Park, which is a first-come, first-served campground. We had a great time camping, cooking, and enjoying the outdoors. Some nights in the mountain get a bit chilly, so it’s important to pack warm clothes and a good sleeping bag.
We also had a rainy morning at the Two Jack Campground in Banff National Park – We learned the hard way to keep our shoes inside the tent, as they got soaked overnight :D
As an experiment, for this trip I brought with me a small portable chair that my friend Jeremy lent me. It was a game changer. Campgrounds always offer places to sit, but they rarely are wherever YOU want to sit. With the portable chair I could evade the campfire smoke, or sit by that perfect mountain view to enjoy my morning coffee. I’m convinced these are worth it, especially if driving to campsite. I’m going to invest in a portable one for my biking trips.
One of the largest light pollution free areas in the world, Jasper is a great place to see the stars.
Seen at Revelstoke campsite
If you see a bear, you need to stay calm and say "woo bear"!
small monkey tripod holding my camera on a chair. Jasper offered significantly better views!
Helinox Chair on the left, my new fav camping gear
At the Two Jack Campground in Banff National Park
Photo by Andre Rocha
Photo idea by Denny, taken by Andre Rocha
Very jealous of the campsite next to ours, they had cool bikes!