Revered as one of the most scenic routes in Canada, an Icefields Parkway Road Trip should definitely be included as part of your Alberta Itinerary. We have completed this drive in both directions savouring its beauty and dramatic natural scenery.
The Icefields Parkway scenic drive is ALL about the journey. Pass stunning turquoise lakes, rushing waterfalls, pine forests, glacier-clad mountains, and ancient glaciers. Follow our Icefields Parkway driving guide to find all the best stops along the way.
INFO ABOUT THE ICEFIELDS PARKWAY ROAD TRIP
The drive itself takes about 3.5 hours one-way without stopping, and while it’s possible to drive icefields parkway in one day, this is not a journey to be rushed. With so many incredible Icefield Parkway sights to see, pick the most important ones, or stay overnight along the way.
- If you want to visit all the attractions on the Icefields Parkway, and do some hiking, you’ll need at least a couple of days.
- If your Canadian road trip begins and ends in Calgary, you can drive the Icefields Parkway in both directions to get a different perspective. Plus, you can divide the Icefields Parkway stops between the two journeys.
- When driving the Icefields Parkway summer is the ideal time, as all services and accommodations will be open.
- With so many things to do on Icefields Parkway, you have to decide whether to complete the route in one full day (one way) or take your time and stop somewhere overnight along the way. While both options are enjoyable, each one offers a different experience.
With some careful planning, you can see all the best Icefields Parkway points of interest. This isn’t just a drive after all, this is an experience.
Let’s discover the best things to do on the Icefields Parkway.
BEST STOPS ALONG THE ROUTE
Glistening blue lakes, mirrored snowcapped peaks, verdant forests, gushing waterfalls, easy hiking trails and incredible wildlife are all on the menu.
We will share with you the highlights of Columbia Icefields Parkway as they unfold, starting your journey from Lake Louise. Many of these can be viewed simply by pulling over on the road while others can be reached via a short walk.
If you are beginning your journey in Jasper, this Road trip can simply be reversed.
MAP OF ICEFIELDS PARKWAY
Above is an Icefields Parkway map showing where each point of interest described below is located along the route.
Parks Canada has a detailed map of the Icefields Parkway that can be downloaded, or you can pick one up from the tourist office in Banff Avenue, Banff. Be sure to purchase a National Parks Pass before your journey from either Banff or Jasper as this is a requirement.
Another tip if you would like an accompaniment along the route, is to download the Icefields Parkway GyPSy Guide, a narrated driving tour app. It lets you know what you are seeing as you drive and uses GPS to know where you are.
1. HERBERT LAKE
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Roadside viewpoint
- Distance from Lake Louise: 20 km/ 12 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 212 km/ 132 miles
- Time Needed: 5 minutes
The beautiful glacier fed Herbert Lake is your first stop northbound on the Icefields Parkway, about 5 minutes from the park entrance. The reflections of the nearby mountains and trees are stunning.
For the best photography shots, visit at sunrise and sunset, to see beautiful Mount Temple reflected in the calm water.
2. CROWFOOT GLACIER VIEWPOINT
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Roadside viewpoint
- Distance from Lake Louise: 33 km/21 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 196 km/122 miles
- Time Needed: 10 minutes
Clinging to the northeastern side of Crowfoot Mountain is the mighty Crowfoot Glacier. This is one of more than 100 glaciers dotted along the Icefields Parkway and can be viewed from a pull off before reaching Bow Lake.
Although originally named due to its shape, it has receded over the years and the shape of the glacier has changed.
3. BOW LAKE
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Roadside viewpoint, and off-road parking near The Lodge.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 39 km (24 miles)
- Distance from Jasper: 196 km/122 miles
- Time Needed: 10 minutes
The waters of this glacier fed lake are a mesmerizing turquoise colour during the summer. From here, you get incredible views of Wapta Icefield, Crowfoot Glacier, Crowfoot Mountain, Mount Thompson and Bow Glacier.
Frozen until mid-June, the best photo opportunities are from early morning to mid-day, and from early evening to sunset.
Further on, near The Lodge at Bow Lake, is the trail for Bow Glacier Falls, offering wonderful views in every direction. The trail is 8.4 km / 2-3 hour round trip.
4. PEYTO LAKE & BOW SUMMIT
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Accessible from a parking bay via a short 2km loop trail.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 44 km/ 27 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 190 km/ 118 miles
- Time Needed: 30 minutes
The best spot to take in the grandeur and grace of this popular glacier-fed lake is from Bow Summit. At 2,088 metres (6,800 feet) above sea level, this is also the highest point on the Icefields Parkway.
A loop trail leads uphill from the Bow Summit carpark to a main wooden upper viewing deck. Here, you have the most fantastic view of turquoise blue Peyto Lake, normally along with hordes of tourists!
Peyto Lake was named after “Wild Bill” Peyto, an early outfitter and is one of the most popular stops along the Icefields Parkway.
- The well-marked trail is wheelchair accessible, suitable for children, and all fitness levels. Walking time is approx. 5-10 minutes.
- It is the suspended rock particles from glacial rock flour flowing into the lake during the summer, that gives the lake its bright turquoise colour.
- You will find the best light for photos at sunrise or mid-day to mid-afternoon. A wide-angle lens comes in handy!
5. WATERFOWL LAKES VIEWPOINT
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Roadside viewpoint.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 59 km/ 37 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 173 km/ 107 miles
- Time Needed: 10 minutes
There are nice mountain reflections in the water on the roadside stop on Waterfowl Lake’s eastern shore. From sunrise to mid-morning and at sunset, the light is at its best for photo opportunities.
6. MISTAYA CANYON
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Accessible from roadside via a short walk.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 73 km/ 45 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 159 km/ 99 miles
- Time Needed: 30 minutes
Carved by the Mistaya River over thousands of years, the steep-walled canyon is home to the raging and thundering waters of the river being funnelled into the gorge below.
A 10 minute/300m downhill walk from the roadside carpark through forest, takes you down to this impressive sight via a wooden bridge.
Take time to explore the rock formations from different angles and watch in awe as the water gushes into the gorge, forming mini waterfalls. This was one of our favourite stops along the Icefields Parkway.
7. SASKATCHEWAN RIVER CROSSING
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Fuel, café, accommodation
- Distance from Lake Louise: 79 km/ 49 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 153 km/ 95 miles
- Time Needed: Varies
The “Crossing” is the junction where the North Saskatchewan River, the Howse River and the Mistaya River all meet, and is a starting point for tours on the Columbia Icefield. It is also the only place for basic services, including public bathrooms, a gas station and a restaurant.
This is the only fuel station between here and Jasper, some 154 km, so expect slightly higher prices.
Saskatchewan River Crossing closes in the winter months, so plan ahead with regards fuel and food.
- The Crossing Resort, sits at the base of Mount Wilson and is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It makes a great place to stop over if you want to take your time. Rooms can be booked here.
8. WEEPING WALL
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Roadside viewpoint
- Distance from Lake Louise: 106 km/ 66 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 125 km/ 78 miles
- Time Needed: 10 minutes
Located on your right-hand side is towering Cirrus Mountain, which stands at 100 metres / 330 feet. During spring and summer, the mountain face resembles a wall of tears, as water cascades down in a series of waterfalls, the main one being called “Teardrop”.
In winter the freezing water turns the mountain face into an ice climber’s playground. To photograph the wall, the light is best from mid-day to sunset.
9. BIG HILL AND BIG BEND VIEWPOINT
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Roadside viewpoint
- Distance from Lake Louise: 115 km/ 71 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 118 km/ 73 miles
- Time Needed: 5 minutes
Clinging to the mountain walls, this road gives stunning views of the river and valley below. The hairpin “Big Bend” wraps in a circle below towering peaks. Take your time driving this section of road.
At the top of Big Bend, on the right side of the road is a viewing area. It is located on a blind corner so be very careful entering and leaving.
10. PARKER RIDGE
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Hike
- Distance from Lake Louise: 120 km/ 75 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 112 km/ 70 miles
- Time Needed: 2-2.5 hours
The Parker Ridge Trail transports you through forest, rising 250 metres / 820 feet, is 5.9 km/3.7 miles, and takes about 2 hours in total to complete.
After about 2 km, the trail crosses the ridge but keep going and you will be rewarded with views of Saskatchewan Glacier and the multiple mountain ranges. Be sure to watch out for wildlife which could include mountain goats, bighorn sheep and maybe even a wandering bear!
11. WILCOX PASS TRAIL
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Hike
- Distance from Lake Louise: 126 km/ 78 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 106 km/ 66 miles
- Time Needed: 3-4 hours
Another hike about 6 km from Parker Ridge, the east end trail head is accessed from Wilcox Creek Campground car park. Initially climbs through trees to a ridge, you are rewarded with fantastic views of the Athabasca Glacier, as well as Mt Athabasca, Mt Andromeda and Mt Kitchener.
Keep an eye out for mountain goats and bighorn sheep on the upper sections of this return hike, which is 7km/4.2 miles in length, and takes about 3 hours to complete.
12. COLUMBIA ICEFIELD DISCOVERY CENTRE
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Short hike to the viewpoint or an Icefields Parkway tour of the glacier
- Distance from Lake Louise: 128 km/ 80 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 103 km/ 64 miles
- Time Needed: 1-4 hours
The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre, located at the junction of Banff and Jasper National Parks, is positioned directly across the road from the Athabasca Glacier. Inside, a natural history museum with interpretive exhibits, is a great way to discover how glaciers are formed, grow and retreat.
The center also houses a cafe, restaurant, gift shop, washrooms and hotel. But more importantly, this is where you purchase tickets for the Ice Explorer snow coach, which will take you right up onto the glacier. The tours depart from the discovery centre and include admission to the Glacier Skywalk, located further along the Parkway.
If you don’t fancy paying the ticket price, you can park at the discovery center and walk to the Athabasca Glacier Viewpoint instead. The trailhead (2.8 km return) begins from a dirt parking lot across the road from the visitor centre. Markers along the route indicate the positions the glacier used to hold and is a stark indication of how far it has receded over the years.
- The return walk is 2.8 km / 1.68 miles
- Open seasonally from June to mid-October. Check the official site for current times.
13. COLUMBIA ICEFIELD & ATHABASCA GLACIER
The Icefield is about 100-365 metres in depth and receives an average of 7 metres of snowfall annually. These glaciers or fields of ice are the largest, south of the Arctic Circle and straddle Banff and Jasper National Parks.
Feeding six glaciers, only the Dome, Athabasca and Stutfield can be seen from the Icefields Parkway. Flowing to within walking distance of the Parkway is the Athabasca Glacier, its tongue measuring an impressive 1 km in width and 6 km in length. This makes it one of the most accessible glaciers in the world, and you can experience it first-hand.
A giant wheeled all terrain snow coach transports you onto the ice, where you learn all about glaciology followed by 20-25 minutes of free time to walk around and take photos. It is a memorable experience but comes with a slightly hefty price tag. You are then transferred by coach to the Glacier Walkway to continue learning about glaciers.
- Check out this short video of visiting the glacier together with questions/answers about the experience and current prices.
- The Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure ticket price includes entry to the Glacier Skywalk. You cannot choose the adventure as a single experience.
- 125 km from Lake Louise, 108 km from Jasper.
14. GLACIER SKY WALK
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Tour to walk on a glass-floored observation platform
- Distance from Lake Louise: 135 km/ 84 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 104 km/ 65 miles
- Time Needed: 1 hour (with advanced ticket)
The skywalk glass-floor platform sits approximately 280 metres / 918 feet above the Sunwapta valley floor. The glass-floored platform or discovery vista, extends 35 metres / 115 feet out from the edge of the cliff face.
A handheld audio guide and interpretive walkway inform you about the history of the area and the animals that call it home. Plus, the views are incredible! You must put up with the hordes of visitors depending on the time of your visit.
Have a look through the glass floor at the surreal views, and don’t worry, it is perfectly safe.
15. TANGLE CREEK FALLS
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Roadside viewpoint
- Distance from Lake Louise: 137 km/ 85 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 97 km/ 60 miles
- Time Needed: 10 minutes
About 7.4 km further north from the Columbia Icefields, on the north side of Tangle Hill, is Tangle Falls, a roadside waterfall. The delicate multi-tiered cascade sprays down a broad cliff but can be a trickle in drier months. In the winter the layers of water become popular with ice climbers.
- Parking is on the opposite side of the road, on your right.
- Latitude: 52.26793, Longitude: -117.28744
16. QUARTZITE BOULDER FIELD
Sitting just prior to the Endless Chain Mountain range is an area of large pink quartzite rocks. You will see them on both sides of the road, covered in lichen moss and they look very beautiful.
17. SUNWAPTA FALLS
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Short Walk to a viewpoint
- Distance from Lake Louise: 177 km/ 110 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 55 km/ 34 miles
- Time Needed: 20 minutes
The access road is near to the Sunwapta Falls Lodge.
These falls are fed by the Athabasca Glacier and have a drop of approximately 18 metres / 59 feet. The upper falls are framed by a mountain backdrop with a small island of trees in the centre. They are easily accessed from the fall’s carpark. View the full force of the torrential water from the bridge before walking around to view them from different angles.
18. KERKESLIN GOAT LICK AND GLACIER LOOKOUT
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Roadside viewpoint
- Distance from Lake Louise: 195 km/ 121 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 42 km/ 26 miles
- Time Needed: 10 minutes
Heading north from Sunwapta Falls, after about 15 minutes you will see a road sign with a 50km speed limit and a picture of a goat. On the left-hand side of this road is a small parking area. A short trail leads to a lookout offering great views across the Athabasca River.
This area is a favourite for mountain goats due to the salty mineral deposits which the goats like to lick. You will often see them on the road or alongside the road, just sitting or licking.
19. ATHABASCA FALLS
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Off-road parking and a very short hike
- Distance from Lake Louise: 202 km/ 126 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 30km/ 19 miles
- Time Needed: 10 minutes to 1 hour
The falls are renowned less for their height and more for the sheer volume and force of water plummeting through a narrow gorge. The Athabasca River is the largest river system in Jasper, hence the incredible power of these 23 metre / 75 feet drop falls.
The falls can be safely viewed and photographed from various viewing platforms and walking trails.
These are some of the most popular Icefields Parkway waterfalls, and are very busy during the summer, so try and time your visit either early in the morning or late afternoon.
20. VALLEY OF THE FIVE LAKES
- Type of Stop/Attraction: Hike (4.5 km/2.8-miles)
- Distance from Lake Louise: 224 km/ 139 miles
- Distance from Jasper: 9km/ 6 miles
- Time Needed: 2 hours
You may not have time for this hike if you are nearing the end of your journey, although it can be added to your Jasper itinerary for another day. The short trail loops around 5 different beautiful turquoise lakes, and is very popular. The trail is easy and relatively flat.
Now that you know the best Icefields Parkway points of interest, let’s consider some additional information to get the best out of your Icefields Parkway Road Trip.
ICEFIELDS PARKWAY DRIVING GUIDE
The Icefields Parkway is open all year apart from extreme winter conditions. The driving time from one end to the other is roughly 3-3.5 hours without stopping.
The best way to experience the Parkway is in your own vehicle or RV. The road is well paved with wide hard shoulders. Large RV’s will have no problem navigating the whole route, although parking spaces may be limited during busy times.
There is no cell coverage on the Icefields Parkway, so relish the peace and lack of distraction.
For the best chance of good weather and spotting wildlife, the ideal months to travel are June to September, with July and August being the busiest.
TIPS FOR YOUR ROAD TRIP
1. Fill Up with Fuel
The only fuel station along the Icefields Parkway is in Saskatchewan Crossing and prices will be above average due to the isolated location. For the best price be sure to fill your tank before you depart from Lake Louise or Jasper.
2. Make Sure You Have a National Parks Pass
The Icefields Parkway passes through both Banff and Jasper National Parks. Parks passes are required even if you are not stopping.
- Purchase at the entrance gate of the park, or in advance online. Check the official website for current prices.
3. Check Weather Conditions Before Your Journey
Weather conditions should not be a problem outside of winter time, but checking the AMA Mobile App will allow you to check all road conditions throughout the area.
4. Allow Yourself Plenty of Time
Your Icefields Parkway Road trip should not be rushed believe me. It IS all about the journey. Always leave as early as possible to avoid crowds, especially during peak times. You will be rewarded with lake views and trails to yourself, plus this is an ideal time to spot wildlife.
You want to have plenty of time to be able to make frequent stops and enjoy the views without feeling rushed, so you will need a good 9-hour day if time is limited. If, however you can afford more time, I strongly suggest seeing half the sights in one direction and stopping over for a night. Then you can take in the remaining sights on your return journey.
It is surprising how you get a different perspective and alternate views when you drive the Parkway in both directions.
5. Bring Snacks or A Picnic
Pack yourself a picnic from the great bakeries/delis in Lake Louise or Jasper and stop to eat while enjoying sublime views. A lovely place to stop is along Bow Lake or along one of the trails. There are only a few options in terms of food and drink services along the Parkway, some of which are overpriced.
- Icefields Discovery Centre has a cafe and restaurant, but there are queues at busy times.
- Saskatchewan Crossing has a restaurant and limited grocery supplies.
- The Crossing Resort, and Sunwapta Falls Resort all have sit down places to eat.
SPOTTING WILDLIFE ALONG ICEFIELDS PARKWAY
Alongside stunning scenery, you will probably be hoping to catch sight of some of the Rockies famous wildlife on your trip. It is a privilege seeing wild animals in their natural habitat. Sometimes it is down to luck and being in the right place at the right time, especially spotting bears.
As you travel through two national parks, chances are high that you will spot some wildlife. Animals you have the chance of spotting along the route are Grizzly and Black Bears, Woodland Caribou, Mountain Goats, Bighorn Sheep, Elk, Pika, Marmot and White Tail deer.
Animals are often spotted on the roadsides or roaming across open spaces, so keep your eyes open and drive slowly, especially early morning and evening. If you stop to observe wildlife, for their safety and yours, be sure to pull onto the hard shoulder and stay inside your vehicle.
Always give animals plenty of space, do not approach them and NEVER feed them. Treat wildlife with utmost respect. It is their habit we are travelling through! Be sure to have binoculars at hand and a zoom lens will certainly reap rewards when taking photos.
ICEFIELDS PARKWAY ACCOMMODATION
Wondering where you can stay during your Icefields Parkway Road trip? Despite the popularity of the Icefields Parkway and the tremendous amount of traffic that weaves its way along it every day, accommodation options are limited.
This ensures the environmental impact is kept to a minimum, and there are plenty of accommodation options in both Lake Louise and Jasper to choose from. These range from basic campgrounds to hostels and resorts.
Below is a list of accommodation choices, and relevant information needed to make a booking.
HOTELS / LODGES
- Post Hotel & Spa – Lake Louise
- The Lodge at Bow Lake – 36 km from Lake Louise / 194 km from Jasper.
- The Crossing Resort – 85 km from Lake Louise, 153 km from Jasper.
- The Glacier View Inn – 125 km from Lake Louise / 103 km from Jasper.
- Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge – 177 km from Lake Louise / 53 km from Jasper.
HOSTELS
- HI Mosquito Creek Wilderness Hostel – 26 km from lake Louise / 205 km from Jasper.
- HI Rampart Creek Wilderness Hostel – 87 km from Lake Louise / 141 km from Jasper.
FAQ’S ABOUT YOUR ROAD TRIP
The Icefields Parkway Canada, Alberta’s Highway 93, is a mountain road linking Lake Louise with Jasper.
Following the Continental Divide, the 232 kilometer road cuts through the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Canada.
The first 122 kilometers of the Icefields parkway passes through Banff National Park. 110 kilometers of the parkway cuts through Jasper National Park.
The drive itself takes about 3.5 hours, and while it’s possible to drive icefields parkway in one day, this is not a journey to be rushed. With so many incredible Icefield Parkway sights to see, why not stay overnight along the way.
If you plan to drive the Icefields Parkway, summer, spring, and fall are the best months to visit.
While the Icefields Parkway is open all year, snow and extreme weather is common in winter. However, you will be rewarded with frozen waterfalls and snow laden-peaks, and an incredible winter experience.
Absolutely! This is an incredibly stunning drive that you really won’t want to miss.
This really depends on the experience you are looking for. The most popular stops are Bow Lake, Peyto Lake & Bow Summit, Saskatchewan River Crossing, Weeping Wall, Big Hill & Big Bend, Parker Ridge, Columbia Icefield, Glacier Sky Walk, Sunwapta Falls, and Athabasca Falls.
There is no cell service along the Icefields Parkway, however all attractions and stops are well signposted.
Whichever direction you drive the route, the scenery is stunning.
I hope that this post has suitably magnified the amazing stopping places along an Icefields Parkway Road trip. The mountain road really is as stunning as reports state and is certainly one to put on your bucket list!
As always if you have any further questions don’t hesitate to write them in the comments!
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