Banff to Jasper: 15 Best Stops on the Icefields Parkway, Canada

A road trip from Banff to Jasper, along Canada’s Icefields Parkway, is said to be one of the most scenic drives in the world.

Having grown up in Alberta, I would have to agree.

Many articles say that you can do it in a day.  On that, I disagree.

The distance of the Icefields Parkway is 233 kilometres (144 miles). It’s certainly doable within four hours.  But I don’t recommend it, unless you’re just planning to snap a quick photo at a few roadside stops.

My advice?  Take your time, maybe up to 3 days, but a minimum of 2.  Take a walk.  Soak in the beauty.

To help plan your trip, here is a suggested Icefields Parkway itinerary, with my recommendations on the best stops for your trip from Banff to Jasper.

 

What is the Icefields Parkway?

To be specific, the Icefields Parkway refers to the north/south Highway 93 in Alberta.  It connects Banff National Park and Jasper National Park.  The two-lane highway (one each way) winds along the Continental Divide through the spectacular Rocky Mountains.

You can get on the Icefields highway by heading west on the TransCanada Highway #1.  You’ll see the exit for the Icefields Parkway/Hwy 93N just three kilometres past the village of Lake Louise.  (That’s about 2.5 hours drive from Calgary).

The Icefields Parkway is so named because there are more than 100 glaciers along this stretch of roadway.  Most notable is the Columbia Icefield, the largest mass of glacial ice in the Canadian Rockies.

For this Icefields Parkway road trip itinerary, we’ll start at Lake Louise in Banff National Park.

Banff to Jasper: Best stops on the Icefields Parkway, Canada

1.  Lake Louise & Moraine Lake

Lake Louise is quite possibly the most iconic and well-known photo spot in Canada.

It’s best known for the vivid turquoise colour of the glacier-fed lake.  The colour is caused by light reflecting off glacier silt in the water.  The colour changes depending upon the light and season.

Take a classic canoe ride across the lake, or get the bird’s eye view by hiking the 5.5 kilometre trail up to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House.

Set in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is one of the most stunning views in the Rockies. It’s a must-see when you’re in the area.

Moraine Lake is 14 kilometres (8.7 miles) southeast and up an incline from Lake Louise.

Note that Moraine Lake is only accessible from about the end of May to the second week in October, depending upon conditions.  The ice on these two lakes doesn’t start to melt until June.  If you want to see the gorgeous aquamarine colour, it’s best to wait at least until the end of June.

2.  Herbert Lake

This is the first stop on the Parkway, just a 10 to 15-minute drive from Lake Louise.

Herbert Lake is a small lake that can have great reflections of Mount Temple when the water is calm.  You can get good shots from the viewpoint or the day use area along the lakeshore.

There is a 1.6 kilometre hiking trail around the lake that starts from the picnic area.  There’s no real elevation gain on the trail, but it’s not well maintained.

3.  Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint/Bow Lake Viewpoint

The giant Crowfoot glacier is nestled into the northeastern side of Crowfoot Mountain above Bow Lake.

It was named for its three bird-like toes, but one of the toes has since melted.

Just over a kilometre down the road from the Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint, you’ll come to the popular Bow Lake Viewpoint.  From here, you’ll  get a nice view of Bow Lake and its incredible reflections, although I think the view is even better at the next stop.

4.  Bow Lake/Lodge at Bow Lake

Shortly after the viewpoint, turn left into Bow Lake and the Lodge at Bow Lake (formerly Num-Ti-Jah Lodge) for one of the most beautiful spots along the Icefields Parkway.

In the summer, Bow Lake turns a beautiful aquamarine colour and makes a dramatic statement against the backdrop of the imposing Crowfoot mountain and glaciers hanging above.

Walk along the easy lakeshore trail for some different views and don’t miss the classic shot looking across from the footbridge.

One of the largest lakes in Banff National Park, Bow Lake sits at an elevation of 1920 metres and is frozen most of the year.  It thaws around mid-June.

The Lodge at Bow Lake is a historic site built by one of Banff’s early mountain guides.  It has a big stone fireplace, cozy duvets and rustic decor.  It’s a great place to stay if you want to see the stars at Bow Lake at night.

5.  Peyto Lake

Peyto Lake is one of the classic postcard shots along the Icefields Parkway.  It looks like the silhouette of a dog or a wolf and it really is that colour!  This also makes it one of the busiest spots.

The lake is located at the Bow Summit – – the highest point on the Parkway at 2088 metres.  Turn off the Parkway at the Bow Summit signs and you’ll see the lower parking on your right.  From there, it’s about a 15-minute hike up to the Peyto Lake Lookout.  If it’s too steep for someone in your group, you can drop them off up at the second parking lot which is used for tour buses and access for the disabled.

To avoid the tour buses, it’s a good idea to get here early or later in the day.  For photographers, sunrise or mid-afternoon is the best light.

6.  Waterfowl Lake

The lesser-known roadside stop at Waterfowl Lake offers nice reflections of Howse Peak and Mount Chephren.  The best time for this is in the early morning when the water is calm.

There’s an easy 1.4 kilometre hike to Upper Waterfowl Lake for some great lakeside views.  There are plenty of wildflowers here in early summer.

7.  Mistaya Canyon

Mistaya Canyon is a hidden gem where the powerful Mistaya River carves through a canyon.  The water is so strong that it creates a rumbling sound that echoes off the canyon walls.

There’s a 10-minute walk from the carpark to a bridge over the canyon where you can watch the water swirling beneath your feet.

Photos are best shot in the morning or when it’s overcast to avoid harsh shadows.

8.  Saskatchewan River Crossing

Saskatchewan Crossing is a junction of the North Saskatchewan, Howse and Mistaya rivers. It was originally a settlement for fur traders.

This is not a “best stop” on the Icefields Parkway in terms of scenery.  But, it’s worth mentioning because it’s the only gas station along the Icefields Parkway.  There’s also a small restaurant and convenience store.

9.  Parker’s Ridge

The Parker Ridge trail is at the midway point of the Parkway. It’s popular because of the stunning views of the Saskatchewan Glacier.

The hike begins at a pullout from the Icefields Parkway.  It’s a 5.9 kilometre hike (round-trip) to the Saskatchewan Glacier viewing platform, with an elevation gain of 269 metres.  I would describe it as an easy to moderate hike that can be done within 2.5 to 3 hours.

10.  Columbia Icefield

The Columbia Icefield is the largest set of glaciers in the Canadian Rockies (200 km²).  However, the glaciers are shrinking steadily due to climate change.  I can see the difference in the Athabaska Glacier from when I first visited as a kid.  It’s retreating by 5 metres per year!

You can see the Athabasca Glacier from the Glacier Discovery Centre.  It has an interpretive exhibit, hotel, restaurant and gift shop.

You can also buy tickets at the Centre for a 90-minute glacier tour.  It takes you right onto the glacier in a giant 6-wheeled all terrain vehicle.  There’s a chance to walk on the glacier itself, but be sure to stay within designated areas.  Chances are you will get a first-hand look at the glacier melting.

If you don’t want to do the tour, you can walk closer to it on your own.  Due to the many deep crevices, don’t walk on the glacier by yourself, but you can opt for a guided walking tour.

11.  The Columbia Icefield Skywalk

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is a semi-circle bridge that extends out from a cliff almost 300 metres above a valley.  Its big feature is a glass-bottomed floor that makes for a thrilling stroll seemingly in the air.

While it’s a cool experience, it’s not one of the best views in the area and you can only see the glaciers in the distance.

11.  Tangle Creek Falls

Just past the Skywalk, Tangle Creek Falls is worth a quick stop.  The small parking lot is on the left side of the road while the falls are on the right.

The waterfall has several tiers as it flows down the rock face.  You can also climb up to get a closer look, but take care on the wet rocks.

12.  Sunwapta Falls

Sunwapta means “turbulent river” in the local native language and that’s exactly what you’ll find at this stop.  To see the falls, turn off the Parkway to the Sunwapta Resort — there’s a short access road to the parking lot for the falls.

From there, it is a short walk to the viewing bridge for the falls.  There’s also a viewing spot from the left side.

This is the main event, but there’s also a pleasant 1.3 km hike to the lower Sunwapta Falls.

13.  Athabaska Falls

At 23 metres, the Athabaska Falls isn’t the highest waterfall in the Rockies.  But it carries the most water volume of any of the rivers.  Its power and roar make for an impressive sight.

You can reach the falls by a short paved trail from the parking lot.  There’s a path along the waterfall and its gorge with viewing points and interpretive signs along the way.  The whole thing is only about one kilometre long.

14.  Horseshoe Lake

Shortly after Athabaska Falls, you’ll see the trailhead for Horseshoe Lake on the right.

One of the deepest lakes in Jasper National Park, it’s a gorgeous deep green with good reflections of the interesting textures of the cliffs.  A short trail on the right will take you to the highest cliffs.  To the left, you can follow a trail closer to the water.

15.  Jasper

Welcome to Jasper – – your final stop on the Icefields Parkway!

This is the heart of Jasper National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Its breathtaking sites are perfect for relaxed scenic drives or adventurous hiking and paddling.  The park is also the second largest Dark Sky Preserve in the world.

Common questions about driving the Icefields Parkway

Do I need a pass to drive from Banff to Jasper?

The Icefields Parkway crosses two national parks – – Banff and Jasper.  Parks Canada passes are required and can be obtained online, at the entrance gate of the park or at tourist information centres.

You can buy a day pass ($10.50 per adult or see the group option).  If you’re planning to spend more time in national parks, you may choose a Discovery Pass, which is good for a year.  The Banff – Lake Louise tourism site has a calculator to help get the best value when buying a pass.

What is the best time of year to for an Icefields Parkway road trip?

The Icefields Parkway is open all year-round, although there may be temporary closures due to weather conditions.

It’s stunning in the winter, however, I don’t recommend it unless you’re a very experienced winter driver.  Road conditions deteriorate rapidly and it doesn’t get as much attention from road crews as a major highway does.  As such, winter tires are required on your vehicle.

As well, many of the services along the Parkway, including the only gas station, close from November to March.

Although I have seen snow in every month in the mountains, the Icefields Parkway weather is much nicer in the summer.  And by this, I mean July and August.  However, this is also the busiest time on the roadway.  And forest fire smoke has increasingly become a problem, particularly in August – – you can see it in some of my photos here.

If you want to avoid the worst of the crowds, my recommendation is to go toward the end of June (when most lakes should be thawed) or early September (before regular snow falls).

What services are available along the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper?

Another important thing to know is there is no cell signal along most of the drive along the Parkway.  It drops shortly after Hebert Lake and picks up again just before Jasper, although you may get a signal at the Columbia Icefields Discovery Centre.

As mentioned, there is only one gas station (Saskatchewan Crossing), so be sure to fill up in Lake Louise or Jasper.

There are also a limited number of food options along the way.  There are restaurants at the Bow Lake Lodge, Saskatchewan Crossing (also a small convenience store here) and the Glacier Discovery Centre. It’s best to pack the water, food and snacks that you’ll need for your trip.

What is the road like on the Icefields Parkway?

The road is fully paved and in good condition.  There is one lane each way, with designated passing lanes from time to time.

Will I see wildlife on my drive from Banff to Jasper?

It’s fairly likely that you’ll see some deer, elk or mountain goats along the way.  Perhaps even a bear.

Parks Canada recommends against pulling over and stopping to look at wildlife.  This creates dangerous traffic jams along the roads, which is hazardous for the animals as well.

You’ll receive information about wildlife when you pass through the park gates.  Always keep your distance from animals – – remember, they are wild.  Also, never ever feed the wildlife.  This makes them think humans are attractive, which often ends very badly.

Finally, if you plan to do some hiking anywhere but the busiest of places, you should take bear spray with you.

What airport do I fly into to do this trip?

If you want to drive from Banff to Jasper  (and, perhaps back), you should fly into Calgary International Airport.  It’s 127 kilometres (79 miles) from Banff.   For an overnight hotel at the airport, I suggest the Calgary Mariott In-Terminal Hotel or the Applause Hotel by Clique.

If you’re planning to go from Jasper to Banff, you may want to fly into the Edmonton International Airport.  It’s 365 kilometres (226 miles) from there to Jasper.  Check pricing and availability on Edmonton airport hotels here.

Icefields Parkway Tours from Banff to Jasper

If you would prefer to take an Icefields Parkway tour, rather than drive yourself, there are many options.

This day trip by Discover Banff Tours departs from and returns to Banff.  It stops at several lookouts, including Bow Lake, and includes an Athabaska Glacier tour.

If you want to go one-way, this tour by SunDog Tours takes you from Banff or Lake Louise to Jasper.  It stops at many of the sites listed above and includes an Athabaska Glacier Adventure.

Travel Essentials

At any time of the year in the mountains, you should dress in layers appropriate to the season.  In the summer, this would include a T-shirt layer, a warm layer and a wind/rain jacket. I always wear a merino wool base layer, which is comfortable in any situation.  Also, waterproof hiking shoes or boots are also a good idea.

Even in the summer, the temperature can dip close to zero degrees Celsius at night at higher elevations.

Note that if you need bear spray for hiking, you can’t take it on a plane.  You can buy it at most sports stores in Calgary, like Canadian Tire.  In Banff, you can get it at any outdoor goods store or rent it at Ultimate Sports or in Lake Louise, at Wilson Mountain Sports.

Where to stay – Icefields Parkway camping and hotels

There isn’t much accommodation along the Icefields Parkway.  If you prefer a hotel, you can stay in Lake Louise or Jasper. My favourites are the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (pictured above) or the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

In between, your choices are the Lodge at Bow Lake or the Glacier View Lodge overlooking the Columbia Icefields.  You’ll need to book these hotels well in advance of your trip.

There are a few hostels and a number of campgrounds where you can stay along the route during the warmer months.  Spots in most of the campgrounds are on a first-come, first-served basis. I enjoyed an overnight car camping stay at the Wilcox Creek campground near the Columbia Icefields.  It operates on a cash honour system where you put your payment into a lockbox.  Make sure you have some cash in small bills on hand.

 

Banff to Jasper Map

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