The best place to stop on the drive from Calgary to Banff: Explore Canmore Alberta

Canmore Alberta is just over an hour drive from Calgary, and only 20 minutes from Banff (the total drive from Calgary to Banff is about an hour and a half). So although it doesn't exactly break up the drive that evenly, it still makes a great pitstop. If you're planning on stopping in Canmore Alberta, I recommend stopping on your way to Banff instead of on your way back to Calgary. Otherwise Canmore might be a bit underwhelming after seeing Banff National Park!