Spanning 232 km (144 mi) from Alberta’s Lake Louise to Jasper Nationwide Park is certainly one of Canada’s most scenic drives, the Icefields Parkway. This breathtaking stretch of freeway meanders by means of mountainscapes and meadows that appear like a dwelling postcard.
This bucket-list highway journey will not be solely a Canadian treasure however a worldwide sensation. Vacationers from throughout the globe embark on this 3-hour stretch to catch a glimpse of the peaks, glaciers, and valleys that make this space on the continental divide so extraordinary.
We road-tripped alongside the Icefields Parkway on our current cross-Canada journey with Benji, the van. We scanned for wildlife at each flip and made numerous photograph stops to seize the pristine great thing about the Canadian Rockies.
To drive the Icefields Parkway, you’re required to have a legitimate parks Canada cross. Income from cross gross sales is directed in direction of upkeep, plowing, sanding, and avalanche management. Verify the Parks Canada web site for cross choices.
Whereas the Icefields Parkway, or Freeway 93, is mostly explored from Banff to Jasper Nationwide Park, these eager to seize the total expertise ought to journey the freeway in each instructions. Belief us, this isn’t the form of drive you wish to rush!
On the Icefields Parkway!
Should-See Stops on the Icefields Parkway, Canada
There are such a lot of issues to do on Icefields Parkway and gorgeous viewpoints alongside the way in which that you simply’ll be hard-pressed to decide on which of them you wish to discover.
Listed below are a few of our favorite must-see stops alongside the Icefields Parkway.
Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint
Simply 34 km (21 mi) from Lake Louise, the Crowfoot Glacier could be admired from a roadside lookout level or from Bow Lake. The glacier acquired its identify from its three-pronged form, which appeared similar to a crow’s foot.
Now, after years of water runoff, the glacier solely has two prongs however nonetheless maintains a singular form. You’ll be able to cease right here year-round and catch a glimpse of one of many most important water sources for the Metropolis of Calgary.
Crowfoot Glacier, Canadian Icefields Parkway,
Mistaya Canyon
A cease at Mistaya Canyon is the proper alternative to stretch your legs over a quick hike to a beautiful vista. Enterprise down 0.5 km (0.3 mi) by means of a forested path that opens as much as a view of the canyon. Take heed to the push of the Mistaya River echoing off of the rocky partitions whereas taking within the sights of naturally carved-out curves and rocky mountain peaks. Mistaya Canyon is near the Saskatchewan River Crossing and is open year-round.
Mistaya Canyon, Canadian Icefields Parkway
Bow Lake
The Bow Lake viewpoint gives sweeping views of the Wapta Icefield, Crowfoot Glacier, Mount Thompson, and Crowfoot Mountain. Winter visits boast dramatic icy peaks, whereas summer season guests are greeted by the turquoise waters of Bow Lake.
Bow Lake
Having fun with the great thing about Bow Lake, Icefields Parkway
Peyto Lake & Bow Summit
One of the crucial widespread stops alongside the Icefields Parkway is Peyto Lake. This vibrant glacier-fed lake is greatest seen from a brief 2 km (1.2 mi) uphill hike to Bow Summit. At Bow Summit, you’ll have a panoramic view from the very best level on the drive from Banff to Jasper. The view is price each step—you’ll shortly see why this is without doubt one of the most photographed lakes within the Canadian Rockies.
Peyto Lake
Columbia Icefield
The Columbia Icefield is arguably essentially the most iconic image of the Icefields Parkway. This icefield is residence to the most important glaciers south of the Arctic Circle. Most notably, the Athabasca Glacier, which you’ll be able to stroll as much as in the course of the summer season months and say that you simply’ve walked on a glacier! Should you’re not eager to enterprise up the mountainside, you possibly can nonetheless admire the splendour of the icefield from the parking zone of the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre.
To get the total expertise, you should buy a ticket for the Columbia Icefield Parkway Journey. An all-terrain Ice Explorer will take you as much as the heights of the traditional Athabasca Glacier. You’ll be surrounded by ice, and all of the vehicles within the parking zone will appear like ants. Tickets are CAD $93 (USD $70) per individual and in addition embody entry to the Glacier Skywalk, which you’ll be able to study extra about under. The Icefield Discovery Centre and Athabasca Glacier are accessible from Could-October, and it’s greatest to ebook forward.
Columbia Icefield Parkway
Glacier Skywalk
Seeing the traditional glaciers of the Canadian Rockies is spectacular from floor stage. Now think about with the ability to view the whole panorama from 280 m (918 ft) within the air! The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is a glass-bottomed walkway with views of waterfalls, wildlife, and glaciers of the Sunwapta Valley. You’ll be able to go to from Could to October for CAD $37 (USD $28) or as a part of the Icefield Journey. To keep away from ticket traces, you possibly can ebook on-line forward of time.
Glacier Skywalk, Canadian Icefields Parkway
Sunwapta Falls
Fed by the Athabasca Glacier, Sunwapta Falls are a pair of 18 m (60 ft) waterfalls framed by pine timber. A brief jaunt from the parking space opens as much as a improbable view of the higher falls. A quick 1.3 km (0.8 mi) hike by means of the forest is a worthy addition to your cease for a view of the decrease falls. You’ll be able to go to the falls year-round, however they’re most spectacular in late spring.
Sunwapta Falls, Canadian Icefield Parkway
Athabasca Falls
A particular year-round favorite cease on the Icefields Parkway is Athabasca Falls. This roaring waterfall is extremely highly effective and could be seen from a number of platforms and walkways. If the rumble of the Athabasca River is looking your identify, go to from Could to September and go whitewater rafting for a 360° view of the canyon!
Bridal Veil Falls
The lookout for Bridal Veil Falls is near the Icefields Parkway’s midpoint and gives gorgeous views of the North Saskatchewan River valley, the 86m Bridal Veil Falls, and the rugged Mount Saskatchewan. Bridal Veil Falls Lookout is straightforward to overlook as a result of it’s simply round a giant bend within the highway. There may be additionally an out-and-back mountain climbing path that begins on the viewpoint parking zone, which results in Bridal Veil Falls and Panther Falls.
Greatest Stops Alongside the Canadian Icefields Parkway: Hikes
Whether or not you’re spending a day or a number of days, there are many nice hikes to take a look at. Listed below are a few of our high picks for mountain climbing alongside the Icefields Parkway.
Parker Ridge (5 km/3.1 mi)
This 2.5-hour round-trip hike begins with a sequence of switchbacks. The path then opens as much as a view of the longest glacier within the Canadian Rockies, the Saskatchewan Glacier. This path sees numerous snow, so it’s greatest to go to in the summertime when the alpine wildflowers are blooming. Should you’re making the trek within the fall or late spring, crampons are a should.
Helen Lake (12 km/7.5 mi)
Tucked within the mountains 33 km (20.5 mi) north of Lake Louise, Helen Lake is a picturesque valley lake surrounded by floral meadows. This hike is an area favorite, taking most individuals 4-5 hours to finish.
Helen Lake
Wilcox Move (8 km/5 mi)
Wilcox Move is the excellent hike in your Icefields Parkway journey. Positioned not removed from the Icefields Discovery Centre, this 3-3.5 hour hike winds its approach above the treeline for gorgeous views of the Athabasca Glacier. It’s recognized to be a hotspot for bighorn sheep, too!
Chephren Lake (7 km/4.3 mi)
A comparatively flat however very muddy 7 km (4.3 mi) path takes you to the foot of Chephren Lake. Make sure to put on waterproof boots and be dwarfed by the towering Mount Chephren and Howse Peak. Today hike normally takes about 3 hours and is a nice choice for a winter hike, too.
Waterfowl Lakes (1.7 km/1.1 mi)
This simple, out-and-back path begins on the parking zone previous the Waterfowl Lakes Campground. You’ll wind by means of the woods, then to the river that connects the Higher and Decrease Waterfowl Lakes. Extra trails converge on the river, and you’ve got the choice to cross the bridge and hike to Cirque Lake, or you possibly can proceed alongside the river to Higher Waterfowl Lake.
You’ll come throughout a picnic space on the north shore of Higher Waterfowl Lake. Whereas this won’t be essentially the most exhilarating hike within the space, it’s an awesome spot to drag off and have a peaceable picnic lunch surrounded by beautiful panorama.
Hector Lake (4.5 km/2.8 mi)
One other simple hike is that this 4.5 km out-and-back path that begins on the Hector Lake Viewpoint, follows the Bow River for a bit, then ends on the giant glacier-fed lake. Hector Lake is a little bit of a hidden gem – relying on if you go to, you may need all of it to your self. Waterproof sneakers are a good suggestion, as some elements of the hike may be a bit muddy.
Bow Glacier Falls (9 km/5.5 mi)
This reasonably troublesome out-and-back path takes you thru a wide range of terrain, beginning at The Lodge at Bow Lake (previously the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge), hugging the lake’s north shore, after which by means of the valley to Bow Glacier Falls. Many of the hike is comparatively flat, however you do have a steep climb as much as the falls. General, there’s a couple of 280m (925ft) elevation acquire.
Valley of the 5 Lakes (4.5 km/ 2.7 mi)
Simply earlier than you attain Jasper, you’ll come to the Valley of the 5 Lakes, whose trailhead is correct off the Icefields Parkway. A straightforward loop path leads you to 5 small, brilliantly blue-green lakes nestled within the woods. This can be a widespread spot, particularly for households, so don’t be stunned when you’re sharing the path with fairly a number of people.
Valley of the 5 Lakes
Greatest Stops for Wildlife Viewing on Canada’s Icefields Parkway
Banff Nationwide Park and Lake Louise host a whole lot of animals that decision the Rockies residence. In truth, the Banff-Lake Louise area boasts 53 mammals and 260 hen species! A drive alongside the Icefields Parkway is a tremendous wildlife viewing alternative. Should you’re visiting Jasper Nationwide Park within the winter, attempt a winter wildlife tour!
In case you are fortunate sufficient to come across wildlife within the parks, keep in mind to by no means method the animals. Even when you actually wish to seize that photograph, preserve your distance and keep in your car when you’re on the highway. You don’t wish to be threatening as a result of it goes with out saying wild animals are unpredictable.
Elk on the Icefields Parkway drive
Kerkeslin Goat Lick
The right solution to full an Icefields Parkway highway journey is with mountain goats! The Kerkeslin Goat Lick is 38 km (23.6 mi) south of Jasper and is virtually a assured spot to see mountain goats. Goats collect right here to lick a mineral-rich silt deposit that leads them away from their normal cliffside terrain.
Tangle Falls
Not solely is Tangle Falls a formidable waterfall alongside the Icefields Parkway, however it’s additionally a hangout for bighorn sheep. Often known as Tangle Creek Falls, this multi-tiered waterfall has 4 drops and is 48m (157ft) tall. As with most wildlife in Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper, you’ll have the most effective viewing alternatives within the low season when the Nationwide Parks are much less busy.
Maligne Lake
Should you’re touring north from Banff Nationwide Park to Jasper, certainly one of your ultimate stops must be at Maligne Lake. It’s a beautiful mountain lake that’s the excellent place to have a picnic and look ahead to the various animals that reside close by. Moose, bighorn sheep, bears, elk, and deer are all residents of the realm.
Maligne Lake
Driving the Icefields Parkway in Winter
With unpredictable mountain climate in Alberta, Canada, driving the Icefields Parkway in winter requires preparation. It’s important to verify highway circumstances, costume heat, and have winter tires. Snow tires are required alongside the parkway from November 1 – April 1.
Even with the chilly temperatures and mountains of snow, exploring the Canadian Icefields Parkway in winter nonetheless gives many enjoyable actions. Whereas some stops, just like the Columbia Icefield, shut for the winter, many viewpoints alongside the parkway are open year-round.
We visited within the winter and actually beloved seeing the Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls with a snowy backdrop. For a full checklist of web sites open within the winter, Parks Canada has a helpful information.
One factor that’s tremendous vital to recollect is to replenish your fuel tank in Banff Nationwide Park or Lake Louise.
Each fuel station is closed alongside the Icefields Parkway within the winter. Make sure to take a look at Parks Canada’s Icefields Parkway Driving Information for an in depth map of all of the landmarks and trailheads alongside the freeway. The Icefields Parkway map additionally exhibits places of campsites, info centres, and relaxation stops with services.
The place to Keep Alongside the Icefields Parkway
There are many seasonal alternatives for tenting on the Icefields Parkway, in addition to inns and hostels.
Summer time
Summer time is the perfect time to drive the Canadian Icefields Parkway as a result of every little thing is open. There are a number of campgrounds for tents and RVs in Banff Nationwide Park, Lake Louise, and Jasper. Tenting at Waterfowl Lakes Campground, 57 km (35 mi) north of Lake Louise, is a superb launch level for a number of the greatest hikes within the space. Equally, Wilcox Creek is positioned near the Icefields Discovery Centre, so it’s a handy place to remain the evening.
Should you’re not trying to camp, the Deer Lodge and Sunwapta Falls Resort are each glorious selections for a mountain escape. For the total expertise, keep on the Glacier View Lodge and get up to a surprising view of the Athabasca Glacier out of your window.
Winter
Lodging choices alongside the Canadian Icefields Parkway are pretty restricted within the winter. For hardy winter campers, tenting is permitted on the Wilcox Move Trailhead, however there aren’t any services and no fires permitted. Your greatest wager can be to spend the evening within the city of Jasper or Lake Louise on the opposite aspect. Nonetheless, there are additionally a lot of hostels alongside the parkway which are open year-round with a reservation, so there are alternatives.
Should you’re eager to ski in the course of the winter season, Lake Louise Inn gives a free shuttle service to the Lake Louise Ski Resort. Visitor rooms have gorgeous views of the Canadian Rockies, and you may reserve lodging with kitchens, jet tubs, and fireplaces. In the course of the winter season, this resort additionally gives complimentary snowshoe leases.
With roaring waterfalls, snow-capped peaks, and shiny turquoise lakes, it’s no marvel that the Icefields Parkway is without doubt one of the greatest scenic drives in Canada. What could appear to be a easy Banff to Jasper freeway is definitely an expertise like no different. We’re so completely happy that we took the time to find this unimaginable highway journey that reminded us how lovely Canada actually is!
