Ever dreamed of a scenic road trip through the Canadian Rockies? The Icefields Parkway in Alberta is a top spot for you. This 230-kilometer highway links Lake Louise in Banff National Park to Jasper. It’s filled with glaciers, alpine lakes, waterfalls, and lots of wildlife.
What makes the Icefields Parkway stand out? Is it the massive Rocky Mountains, the stunning natural sights, or seeing wildlife up close? We’ll find out in this guide. We’ll share the best things to do and top picks for this iconic Canadian trip.
Key Takeaways
- The Icefields Parkway is a 232 km stretch of double-lane highway running along the Continental Divide from Lake Louise to Jasper.
- Stunning mountain views, glaciers, alpine lakes, and waterfalls make the Icefields Parkway a must-visit destination.
- Outdoor adventures like hiking, glacier tours, and wildlife viewing are popular activities along the Parkway.
- Accommodation, dining, and fuel options are limited, so planning ahead is crucial.
- The Icefields Parkway is accessible year-round, but services are closed from November to April.
About the Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway is a stunning drive in the Canadian Rockies. It links Alberta’s top national parks, Banff and Jasper. This 332-kilometer (207-mile) road runs along the Continental Divide. It gives travelers amazing views of mountains.
Scenic Drive Along the Continental Divide
Driving the Icefields Parkway, you’ll see snow-topped peaks, waterfalls, and clear glacial lakes. The road goes right through the Canadian Rockies. It shows the beauty and power of these ancient mountains.
Connecting Banff and Jasper National Parks
The Icefields Parkway connects Banff and Jasper National Parks. These are two top spots for outdoor fun in Canada. It makes it easy to go from Lake Louise to Jasper’s wilderness.
Paved Highway with Stunning Mountain Views
The Icefields Parkway is a paved road for all types of travelers. But it’s not just any drive. The mountains and views make it special. You’ll see amazing sights at every turn.
“The Icefields Parkway is consistently listed in top scenic route rankings by travel publications like Lonely Planet and Travel + Leisure.”
Top Attractions Along the Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway stretches 232 kilometres from Lake Louise to Jasper. It’s filled with must-see spots. Make sure to check out these highlights as you drive.
Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint
The Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint is a key spot. It shows off the glacier’s unique shape. This view is a reminder of nature’s power.
Bow Lake and Peyto Lake
Bow Lake and Peyto Lake are stunning. They’re known for their bright turquoise waters. These lakes are a treat for the eyes.
Saskatchewan River Crossing
Saskatchewan River Crossing is a key stop. Here, you can refuel, eat, or stay overnight. It’s a handy spot for a break.
Weeping Wall
The Weeping Wall is another must-see. It’s a waterfall that drops down a rock face. Seeing it is a highlight of the trip.
Driving the Icefields Parkway offers many experiences. You’ll see glaciers, lakes, and waterfalls. It’s a journey full of natural beauty.
Hiking Opportunities on the Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway connects Banff and Jasper National Parks, offering hikers amazing trails and views. Two top spots are the Parker Ridge Trail and the Valley of the Five Lakes.
Parker Ridge Trail
The Parker Ridge Trail is a tough but rewarding hike. It leads to a viewpoint over the Saskatchewan Glacier. The 5 km trail has a 272 m elevation gain and takes 1-2 hours to finish. The views from the saddle are breathtaking.
Valley of the Five Lakes
The Valley of the Five Lakes trail is a favorite for its beauty. This 4.5 km loop takes you through a peaceful, varied landscape. It shows off the area’s natural beauty. The hike is moderate and takes about 1-2 hours.
The Icefields Parkway offers unforgettable hiking experiences. It has over 30 trails and routes for backpacking along its 232 km stretch. You can explore the stunning mountain scenery at your own pace.
| Hike | Distance | Elevation Gain | Estimated Time | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Parker Ridge Trail | 5 km (3.1 mi) round-trip | 272 m (892 feet) | 1-2 hours | Moderate |
| Valley of the Five Lakes | 4.5 km (2.7 mi) loop | Minimal | 1-2 hours | Moderate |
Icefields Parkway, Alberta: Best Things to Do - Top Picks
The Icefields Parkway in Alberta is a top spot for its stunning beauty and outdoor fun. It stretches 232 km through the Canadian Rockies. You’ll see amazing mountains, glaciers, lakes, and lots of wildlife.
Whether you have a day or more, the Icefields Parkway is an adventure you won’t forget. It’s filled with exciting hikes and views that will take your breath away. Here are some top activities to do along this famous road:
- Explore the Columbia Icefield and its famous Athabasca Glacier. Go on a guided tour and walk on the glacier for an unforgettable moment.
- See the peaceful Bow Lake and the beautiful Peyto Lake, two spots everyone loves to photograph.
- Hike the Parker Ridge Trail for views of glaciers and mountains.
- Don’t miss the Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls, two amazing natural sights.
- Look out for wildlife like elk, bighorn sheep, and grizzly bears as you drive through the untouched nature.
The Icefields Parkway will amaze you with its stunning views and outdoor fun in the Canadian Rockies.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Columbia Icefield | The Columbia Icefield covers an area of 325 square kilometers and features the Athabasca Glacier, one of the most accessible glaciers in North America. |
| Bow Lake | Bow Lake is a stunning turquoise-colored lake surrounded by the impressive Wapta and Waputik mountain ranges. |
| Peyto Lake | Peyto Lake is renowned for its vibrant blue-green color, created by the glacial rock flour suspended in the water. |
| Parker Ridge Trail | The Parker Ridge Trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and mountain peaks, making it a popular hike along the Icefields Parkway. |
| Athabasca Falls | Athabasca Falls is a powerful waterfall that showcases the force of glacial meltwater cascading over the rocky landscape. |
| Sunwapta Falls | Sunwapta Falls is a stunning two-tiered waterfall that plunges 18 meters (59 feet) into a deep, turbulent pool. |
The Icefields Parkway in Alberta is a must-see for its beauty and adventure. It’s perfect for scenic drives, hiking, wildlife watching, or just enjoying the mountains. This famous route promises an unforgettable trip.
The Columbia Icefield and Glacier Adventure
The Columbia Icefield is a stunning sight along the Icefields Parkway. It’s the largest non-polar icefield in North America. Spanning 325 square kilometers, it’s home to over 30 glaciers, including the famous Athabasca Glacier.
Icefields Centre and Glacier Skywalk
At the Icefields Centre, you can dive into the beauty of the Columbia Icefield. Don’t miss the Glacier Skywalk. It’s a glass floor platform that stretches 280 meters over the Sunwapta Valley. Here, you’ll see mountains and glaciers up close.
Guided Tours on the Athabasca Glacier
For a closer look at the Athabasca Glacier, join a guided tour. These tours let you walk on the glacier itself. You’ll learn about its history, climate change effects, and its importance to the ecosystem.
| Attraction | Description | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia Icefield Adventure | Self-drive tour to the Icefield Centre and Glacier Skywalk | $115.50 CAD |
| Guided Tour from Banff to Athabasca Glacier | Stops at Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, and Peyto Lake | $338 CAD |
| Small Group Tour from Jasper to Columbia Icefield | Guided tour with a stop at Athabasca Falls | Varies |
Visiting the Columbia Icefield offers unforgettable experiences. From the Icefields Centre to the Glacier Skywalk and the Athabasca Glacier, you’ll be amazed by its power and beauty.
Waterfalls Along the Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway is a scenic 232 km-long highway through the Canadian Rockies. It has several magnificent waterfalls that visitors must see. Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls are two of the most impressive.
Athabasca Falls
Athabasca Falls is famous for its huge size and the amount of water it has. It drops over 23 meters (75 feet) into a rocky gorge. The falls get their water from the Athabasca Glacier, part of the Columbia Icefield.
Visitors can see the falls by following well-marked trails and viewpoints. They can marvel at the power and beauty of this amazing waterfall.
Sunwapta Falls
Further north, the Sunwapta Falls have a dramatic class 6 rapid, one of the most powerful in North America. The Sunwapta River drops 60 feet, making a mesmerizing and thunderous display. There’s a short hiking trail that leads to the falls, offering stunning views.
Whether you want to see the grandeur of Athabasca Falls or the power of Sunwapta Falls, these waterfalls are key highlights of the Icefields Parkway. Make sure to explore both to fully enjoy the natural beauty and power of these Canadian Rockies landmarks.
Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
The Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada, is perfect for seeing wildlife. You can spot bears, elk, deer, and mountain goats along this 144-mile stretch. It connects Banff and Jasper National Parks. Keep an eye out for these amazing animals in their natural setting.
Seeing wildlife is thrilling, but safety comes first. The Parkway has big predators, so keep a safe distance. The best times to see wildlife are early morning and evening when they’re most active.
- Grizzly and black bears are often seen along the Parkway. Hikers should be alert and carry bear spray.
- Elk and deer can be seen grazing by the roadside, making for great photos.
- Mountain goats are often seen on the rocky cliffs and slopes, showing off their climbing skills.
For a better wildlife viewing experience, consider a guided tour or a helicopter sightseeing trip. These tours offer expert knowledge and unique views. They help you spot rare animals and make lasting memories.
“The Icefields Parkway is a true natural wonder, where the beauty of the Canadian Rockies is matched only by the diversity of the wildlife that calls this region home.”
Whether you love nature or are visiting for the first time, the Icefields Parkway is a must-see. It lets you dive into Alberta’s stunning landscapes and meet the amazing creatures that live there.
Planning Your Icefields Parkway Adventure
Exploring the Icefields Parkway in Alberta is a dream for many. To make the most of your journey, plan ahead. Think about the best time to visit, where to stay, and tips for the drive.
Best Time to Visit
The Icefields Parkway is a 232 km stretch of road. It gets very busy in the warm months, with over 100,000 vehicles passing through each month. Summer is a great time to visit, with mild temperatures and open hiking trails.
Winter offers a unique experience too. But, the road might close due to avalanches, and many places are closed from October to May.
Accommodation Options
There are not many places to stay along the Icefields Parkway, so plan early. Five HI hostels are available, including Mosquito Creek, Rampart Creek, Hilda Creek, Beauty Creek, and Athabasca Falls. Athabasca Falls has a private room for families.
Many people stay in hotels or cabins in Lake Louise or Jasper. The Columbia Icefields Campground and Rampart Creek offer camping spots.
Practical Tips for the Drive
- Make sure you have a full tank of gas, as services along the Icefields Parkway are limited.
- Be ready for changing weather, as the mountains can surprise you.
- Follow guidelines for watching wildlife and keep a safe distance to protect everyone.
Plan well and think about when to visit, where to stay, and tips for driving. This way, you’ll have a smooth and fun trip on the Icefields Parkway in the Canadian Rockies.
Conclusion
Traveling along the Icefields Parkway in the Canadian Rockies will amaze you with its beauty. You’ll see stunning glaciers, turquoise lakes, and beautiful waterfalls. This drive is a top outdoor adventure in Canada.
Planning your trip to the Icefields Parkway means finding great hiking trails, tours, and places to stay. With the right planning and a sense of adventure, you’ll enjoy every moment. So, get your bags ready, put on your hiking boots, and dive into the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
The Icefields Parkway is full of natural wonders that will amaze you. Start this scenic trip and see the beauty of Alberta for yourself.