The breathtaking Icefields Parkway, a highway that winds its way through the heart of the Canadian Rockies connecting Jasper and Lake Louise in Banff, offers the adventure of a lifetime to travelers. Often hailed as one of the world’s most scenic drives, this iconic route presents a tapestry of awe-inspiring landscapes, from towering mountain peaks to stunning hikes and glittering glaciers that you can walk on. We don’t want you to miss out on any of the best attractions along the Icefields Parkway, which is why we have crafted this one-stop shop for everything you need to know about driving the Icefields Parkway. So buckle up as we embark on an exploration of the must-see attractions on the Icefields Parkway that make this highway a bucket-list-worthy adventure for all.
What is the Icefields Parkway and Why is it Special?
The Icefields Parkway is a legendary stretch of Highway 93 running through the Canadian Rockies, offering a visual symphony of Canada’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. This scenic highway spans approximately 232 kilometers (144 miles), traversing a landscape that seems straight out of a postcard, featuring soaring mountain peaks, expansive glaciers, azure waters, and pristine alpine meadows. Named after the massive icefields that flank its route, this iconic roadway provides unparalleled access to some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth.
The formation of the Icefields Parkway can be traced back to ancient geological processes. Over millions of years, the collision of tectonic plates sculpted the towering peaks that frame the highway, while glacial activity carved out deep valleys and created the majestic icefields that lend their name to the route. The resulting scenery is a testament to the forces of nature, where grand glaciers seemingly touch the sky, reflecting in azure lakes, and dense forests cling to mountainsides.
The Icefields Parkway was completed in 1940 and has grown steadily in fame as travelers from around the globe marvel at its awe-inspiring vistas. The highway gained international recognition, especially during the mid-20th century, as advancements in transportation and tourism infrastructure allowed more people to escape to the mountains and experience its breathtaking beauty.
How to Drive the Icefields Parkway
If you’re a tourist in Alberta without your own car, don’t fret! There are plenty of ways for you to experience the Icefields Parkway, be it as part of a tour or driving yourself.
Renting a car or campervan/trailer and driving the Icefields Parkway yourself is the best way to experience the route. With a rental car, you can curate your own itinerary of stops and take your time exploring the attractions along the highway. We recommend booking cars through RentalCars.com as it filters hundreds of car rental websites and compares prices to ensure you get the best deal available. If you do rent a vehicle or have your own, consider downloading the Icefields Parkway Audio Guide. This is a great resource for information about the area and is a hands-free way to entertain the family while going from attraction to attraction, especially since there won’t be any cell phone service.
Another option is to rent a motorcycle to drive the route. The wind in your hair and the purr of the motor under you while you pass ancient glaciers and turquoise waters has to be the coolest way to experience the Icefields Parkway. Unfortunately, there aren’t any motorcycle rentals in Banff, but there are in Jasper! Jasper Motorcycle Tours offers Harley Davidson motorcycle rentals along with guided motorcycle sidecar tours on the Icefields Parkway for those who don’t have their motorcycle license.
For those who don’t want to drive at all, there are a couple of tours from Banff and Jasper that either go to specific attractions on the parkway or spend the day exploring the route. Sundog Tours also offers Jasper to Banff or Banff to Jasper full-day sightseeing trips on the Icefields Parkway. Alternatively, you could book a private car with Sundog Tours and have the driver as your personal guide.
Best Time to Drive the Icefields Parkway
The best time to embark on a road trip along the Icefields Parkway largely depends on your preferences and desired experiences. For those seeking the quintessential postcard-perfect scenes of the Canadian Rockies, the summer months from June to August are optimal. During this time, the landscape bursts into a vibrant display of wildflowers, and the weather is generally mild, allowing for comfortable exploration of the various stops along the Parkway.
Additionally, the longer daylight hours provide ample time to explore the numerous viewpoints, hiking trails, and attractions along the parkway. The turquoise hues of the glacial lakes, such as Peyto Lake and Bow Lake, are also particularly striking during this season, creating a picturesque backdrop against the rugged mountain terrain.
However, the downside to summer on the Icefields Parkway is that there is way more traffic and there is an increased possibility of sold-out rental cars or campervans. So those thinking that they want to road trip the Icefields Parkways in the summer should book their accommodation, tickets, and rental vehicles months in advance.
Alternatively, the fall season, from September to October, offers a different charm along the Icefields Parkway. The foliage transforms the landscapes into a breathtaking tapestry of warm hues, with golden larch trees popping out against the snow-dusted peaks. Fall also means the crowds of summer are gone, providing a more tranquil and intimate experience with the natural surroundings. Crisp, cool temperatures add a refreshing touch to the journey, and wildlife becomes more active, presenting better opportunities for spotting elk, moose, and other native species.
Winter is not an ideal time to undertake a road trip along the Icefields Parkway. Harsh weather conditions, heavy snowfall, and icy roads can create hazardous driving conditions, making travel challenging and unsafe. Many of the attractions and services along the route may be closed therefore limiting the overall experience. Avalanches and unpredictable weather patterns further contribute to the risks associated with winter travel on the Parkway as the route can be completely shut down if deemed unsafe.
To fully appreciate the beauty and accessibility of this iconic route, it is recommended to plan a visit during the warmer months when the road conditions are favorable, and the natural splendors of the Canadian Rockies are at their peak.
Need to Know and Tips for Driving the Icefields Parkway
There are many tips and tricks that can enhance your road trip and help you and your crew enjoy a seamless trip down the Parkway, and we aren’t shy about sharing them!
Perhaps the biggest need to know before driving the Icefields Parkway is that there is absolutely no cellphone service along the Icefields Parkway or at any of the campgrounds or accommodations along the way. So make sure you pre-load or download the route and any stops you want to make along the way.
To get the most out of your road trip, we also encourage you to leave as early as possible, especially if you are driving in the fall or winter as the days will be much shorter than the summer.
Ensure you fill up on gas prior to leaving either Jasper or Banff as there is only one gas station located on the Icefields Parkway and it’s always noticeably more expensive than gas prices in Jasper and Banff. Because access to stores and gas is limited, it’s best to also pack a cooler with drinks and snacks to have on hand.
If you and your group are planning on doing any of the hikes listed below, ensure you have all the proper equipment. This means good hiking shoes, water, bear spray, bug spray, sunblock, and hiking poles if needed.
If you are planning on driving the Icefields Parkway during the winter, you should note it is mandatory to have snow tires on from November 1st until April 1st. The only gas station on the highway is closed during the winter as well, so you will have to fill up gas before leaving either Jasper or Banff. We also highly suggest bringing an emergency road kit along with you, too.
Lastly, driving along the Icefields Parkway does cost money as the highway runs through two Canadian National Parks. However, the price is very reasonable with day passes selling for roughly $10 CAD per adult and $5 CAD per child or $20 CAD for a family or group in one car.
Best Places to Stay Along the Icefields Parkway
While the Icefields Parkway only takes about three hours to drive from end to end, there are so many awesome attractions and viewpoints along the way that you may wish to break the trip into two days. There is a limited amount of accommodation along the route, so those planning to make this a multi-day road trip should book their accommodation well in advance. We also want to remind you that there is no cell phone service along the Icefields Parkway, so if you need to have internet in the evening, ensure you are booking accommodation that has on-site Wi-Fi.
Glacier View Lodge is an excellent place to stay on the Icefields Parkway for those who are looking to stay around the halfway point. The lodge is located across the road from the Columbia Icefield in the same complex as Starbucks and the Jasper National Park Icefield Information Centre and Glacier Gallery. This modern and cozy hotel offers spacious rooms, along with free parking, free Wi-Fi, three on-site restaurants, and a bar. Each room also comes with either a mountain or a glacier view.
Those seeking more budget-friendly accommodation should consider staying at HI Rampart Creek Hostel. Located a 10-minute drive north of the Saskatchewan River Crossing, this lovely hostel offers free snowshoes and an outdoor fire pit, along with six-person dorm rooms in a rustic cabin setting.
Jasper House Bungalows is another fantastic option for those who are driving from Banff to Jasper and back again. Jasper House offers apartment-style bungalows on Airbnb to accommodate anywhere from one to six people. For larger groups, consider booking the Riverside Family Suite which offers a rustic cabin overlooking the Athabasca River with beds for up to six people and a kitchenette. Those looking for smaller accommodations for one or two persons can book this cozy Standard Room complete with a comfortable king-size bed, a mini-fridge, and a coffee maker.
If you are looking to tent or RV camp, then you can’t go wrong with Silverhorn Creek Campground. The campground is located just a few minute’s drive from Peyto Lake Viewpoint, Waterfowl Lakes, and Bow Lake, offering 45 reservable campsites for RVs, tents, and trailers. Silver Creek Campground does not offer sani-dumps or water fill-ups; however, both can be done at Waterfowl Lakes Campground located six kilometers down the road.
Best Stops on the Icefields Parkway
The drive along the Icefields Parkway offers several attractions and natural wonders, but unlike other road trip destinations, not all of the attractions are well-marked or well-known. Below we have highlighted 20 of the most popular stops and best lesser-known attractions along the route so you can create a personalized itinerary for your road trip. As most people set out from Banff, we have listed the attractions in order from closest to Lake Louise to furthest (closest to Jasper).
Herbert Lake
Herbert Lake is a great pitstop for those starting out on the Icefields Parkway. This beautiful lake features crystal-clear turquoise waters that when calm, reflect Mount Temple like a mirror, offering incredible photo opportunities. Since the lake is right at the beginning of the Icefields Parkway and it’s close to Lake Louise (the more popular of the two), Herbert Lake doesn’t see as many tourists. A 1.6-kilometer loop trail leads around the lake, offering a tranquil setting to enjoy a 20-minute walk and a cup of coffee before hitting the road again. Swimming is also allowed at the lake, but be weary as glacier-fed lakes can be very cold!
Average Stop Time: 20 minutes – 1 hour
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 6 kilometers
Hector Lake & Hector Lake Viewpoint
Hector Lake is another stunning body of water to stop and see on your Icefields journey, be it for a hike or for the view. A majority of tourists who stop here will only stop at the viewpoint parking lot, snap their pictures, and move on; thus, making it ideal for hikers who want the trail to themselves! Those who wish to explore the awe-inspiring turquoise lake can do so using the 4.5-kilometer out-and-back trail leading from the viewpoint parking lot down to the lake. Make sure to have waterproof hiking shoes if you plan to hike this route in the spring or early summer as the lake can overflow and become quite muddy on the lower half of the trail.
Average Stop Time: 10 minutes – 1.5 hour
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 19 kilometers
Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint
You’ll get your first taste of glacier views at this viewpoint stop just south of Bow Lake. Here, you can snap some seriously beautiful photos of Crowfoot Glacier and Crowfoot Mountain with the shimmering turquoise waters of Bow Lake in the foreground.
Average Stop Time: 5 minutes – 20 minutes
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 36 kilometers
Bow Lake & Bow Glacier Falls
This is another great stop for those who want to enjoy a view of the ever-magical Bow Lake or for those who have a hankering for a bite to eat already. The Lodge at Bow Lake offers a recently renovated facility with a hotel, café, gallery, gift shop, and outdoor picnic tables. Bow Lake Viewpoint offers great views of Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Glacier, Crowfoot Mountain, Wapta Icefield, and Mount Thompson. You can also opt to hike one of the many top-notch hiking trails that lead from Bow Lake. For a relatively easy trek that only takes 45 minutes, we recommend the 2.6-kilometer (1.5-mile) Peyton Lake Loop. For a challenging hike with a fantastic reward, check out Bow Glacier Falls – one of the most stunning waterfall hikes in Banff.
Average Stop Time: 10 minutes – 1.5 hour
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 37 kilometers
Peyto Lake Viewpoint
Peyto Lake is one of the most popular lakes to visit in Banff National Park, and for a good reason. Its odd shape, striking blue water, and expansive scenic overlook make it a favorite stop for those traveling on the Icefields Parkway. This is a must-see viewpoint on the route, especially for those traveling with mobility impairments, as the overlook features a fully accessible ramp and lookout for those with mobility disabilities. Peyto Lake Viewpoint is also the highest viewpoint on the parkway, standing 2088 meters (6850 feet) above sea level. Since it’s so popular, there are plenty of parking spots and on-site washrooms at the viewpoint.
Average Stop Time: 10 minutes – 20 minutes
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 43 kilometers
Waterfowl Lakes
Waterfowl Lakes features two calm, vibrant blue lakes that are often overlooked by other road trippers. The Waterfowl Lakes Viewpoint offers fantastic views of the two glacier-fed lakes, along with Chephren Lake, White Pyramid, and Howse Peak. There are also a few hiking trails that lead around the lakes and to Chephren Lake.
Average Stop Time: 10 minutes – 1 hour
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 60 kilometers
Mistaya Canyon
Mistaya Canyon in Banff National Park is a breathtaking natural wonder, known for its stunning turquoise-colored water and narrow gorge carved by the powerful Mistaya River. It’s one of the most popular stops for travelers as the canyon is easily accessed by a half-kilometer well-marked path that leads to a bridge overlooking the canyon. You can opt to walk the short 15 minutes to the bridge or continue along the loop path for another 1.4 kilometers for a total hike time of around 45 minutes.
Average Stop Time: 40 minutes – 1 hour
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 74 kilometers
Saskatchewan River Crossing
The Saskatchewan River Crossing is a historically significant place to visit on the Parkway and home to the only gas station between Jasper and Banff. “The Crossing” was an important settlement in the early 1800s as it was optimally located where three rivers meet; the powerful North Saskatchewan, the Howse, and the Mistaya. Today, it is the only service station on the route, featuring a gift shop, restaurant, public washrooms, and a gas station.
Average Stop Time: 10 minutes – 40 minutes
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 74 kilometers
The Weeping Wall
As you make your way north from Banff to Jasper, look right as you come up at the 109-kilometer mark. Emerging on the side of Cirrus Mountain is the Weeping Wall, a cliff side where several waterfalls trickle and drip down the side of the mountain as if the rock face was weeping. You and your crew can stop in at the Weeping Wall Viewpoint to take in the scenery or take a short walk to get closer to the wall.
Average Stop Time: 10 minutes – 30 minutes
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 109 kilometers
Panther Falls & Bridal Veil Falls
As you approach Panther Falls and Bridal Veil Falls, you’ll first have to go through Big Bend and Big Hill – the famous inclined hairpin turn that unveils expansive views of the valley and mountains. If you do want to stop to take in the view from Big Bend, ensure the vehicle is fully off the road. On the other side of Big Bend sits Panther Falls and Bridal Falls. Your group can enjoy great views of Bridal Veil Falls from the viewpoint and then walk the 1.3-kilometer out-and-back trail (which takes 30 minutes) to see Panther Falls.
Average Stop Time: 10 minutes – 40 minutes
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 120 kilometers
Parker Ridge
The Parker Ridge Trail is easily one of the best hiking trails on the Icefields Parkway as it offers glorious views of the nine-kilometer tongue of the Saskatchewan Glacier, along with ice-covered peaks like Hilda Peak and Mount Athabasca. The expansive jaw-dropping view is only half the draw for most visitors. What really attracts tourists is that it’s a very easy, short hike to take for such a rewarding view. The Parker Ridge Trail is a five-kilometer out-and-back trail that takes just under two hours to complete.
Average Stop Time: 2 hours – 3 hours
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 121 kilometers
Columbia Icefield Center/Athabasca Glacier
The Columbia Icefield Center is easily the most popular attraction on the entire Parkway, and the most unique. The icefield, which comprises several glaciers, is the largest found south of the Arctic Circle and offers one of the most accessible points to walk on glaciers in the world. Now, there are two ways to experience the glaciers here. The first is with a tour on the Ice Explorer – a massive vehicle with wheels taller than most humans and specifically built to traverse glaciers. The 90-minute guided tour will take you into the icefield and allow you to disembark to touch and even taste the glacier ice and water. The second way to experience the glaciers is by walking to the toe of the Athabasca Glacier from the lower parking lot. The trek to the glacier is free and takes about 30 minutes roundtrip.
Average Stop Time: 1 hour – 4 hours
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 130 kilometers
Glacier Skywalk
The Glacier Skywalk is another very popular spot to stop. Here, you and your group can step out onto the cliff walk, a glass floor observation platform hovering 280 meters (918 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley offering outstanding views of crisp glaciers and towering mountains. The best way to experience this Icefields’ attraction is by grouping the Columbia Icefields and Skywalk into one ultimate combo ticket, especially since the shuttles to both attractions leave from the same meeting point (Columbia Icefields Discovery Center). If you’re just interested in the Glacier Skywalk, you can purchase your ticket in advance here.
Average Stop Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 130 kilometers
Tangle Creek Falls
This beautiful waterfall is by no means the most powerful or the largest in the area, but it’s still a great quick stop for those who aren’t following TLC’s advice :). Tangle Creek Falls is located just off the highway on the right-hand side as you make your way to Jasper and features a small parking lot with washrooms.
Average Stop Time: 10 minutes – 30 minutes
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 135 kilometers
Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint
Another fantastic viewpoint along the route to see glaciers is Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint. Located a two-minute drive up the road from Tangle Creek Falls, Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint features ample parking, toilets, and binoculars to use to get a better look at Stutfield Glacier.
Average Stop Time: 10 minutes – 20 minutes
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 139 kilometers
Sunwapta Falls
Icy glacier water flows from the Athabasca Glacier into Sunwapta Falls, creating a powerful upper and lower waterfall. This impressive class 6 waterfall features a water drop of 18 meters (60 feet) and is not to be missed by travelers on the Icefields Parkway. Most tourists will walk just to the upper falls to get a look at the waterfall since it’s an easier path, so if you’re looking to avoid crowds, head to the lower falls instead.
Average Stop Time: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 177 kilometers
Kerkeslin Goats & Glaciers Lookout
As you get closer to Jasper, you’ll come across a sign that brings the speed limit down to 50 km/h. This is because mountain goats are attracted to the salty mineral deposits and will make their way onto the road in search of more tasty spots. You should absolutely drive with caution through this area but also stop to say hello to the goats! There is a small pull off on the left side of the road and a short trail leading up to a lookout point that overlooks the Athabasca River, Mt. Fryatt, Mt. Christie, and Mt. Brussels.
Average Stop Time: 15 minutes – 30 minutes
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 196 kilometers
Athabasca Falls
The mighty Athabasca Falls are a must-see on the Icefields Parkway as it is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the Rockies. The impressiveness of this waterfall doesn’t come from its height, though, but from the power exhibited by the sheer amount of volume and force being pushed through. The best time to see Athabasca Falls in its full glory is in the late spring when the snow melts.
Average Stop Time: 45 minutes – 1.5 hours
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 203 kilometers
Horseshoe Lake
Looking to take a dip after a day’s adventure? Then make your way to the lesser-visited Horseshoe Lake to go cliff jumping and swimming! Named after its U-shape, Horseshoe Lake is a large body of water surrounded by rocky cliffs, making it ideal for those who like the thrill of jumping into the chilly Canadian waters. There are plenty of safe small jumping areas for kids, along with hiking trails and a parking lot.
Average Stop Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 207 kilometers
Valley of the Five Lakes
The Valley of Five Lakes in Jasper National Park is a captivating hiking destination, featuring a chain of five interconnected lakes, each with a unique hue ranging from emerald green to vibrant blue. Your group can head out on the 4.8-kilometer (three miles) well-marked trail that weaves around the gorgeous lakes. We highly recommend bringing along a snack or picnic to enjoy on the Red Chairs at the Third Lake as it’s the perfect spot to put your feet up and take in your final leg of the journey on the Icefields Parkway.
Average Stop Time: 1.5 hours – 2 hours
Kilometers from Lake Louise: 225 kilometers
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a pass to drive the Icefields Parkway?
Yes, all visitors who are driving or are passengers need a pass. Group/family passes for one vehicle are also sold.
Is there any cell phone service along the Icefields Parkway?
No, there is no cell phone reception on the Icefields Parkway.
How long does it take to drive the Icefields Parkway?
About three hours from end to end.
Are there bathrooms along the route?
Yes, many of the hiking areas, day-use areas, and attractions have public washrooms.
What is the most beautiful section of the Icefields Parkway?
Big Bend, which unveils Parker Ridge, is often regarded as the most beautiful section of the route.
What is the speed limit on the Icefields Parkway?
The speed limit on the Icefields Parkway is 90 km/h (55 mph) but does go down to 50 km/h (31 mph) in sections where mountain goats are known to frequent.
Is it dangerous to drive the Icefields Parkway?
Yes and no, depending on the time of year. The parkway is not as twisty and steep as one might think. However, harsh winter conditions can create icy roads which can make the drive dangerous. The safest time of year to travel on the Icefields Parkway is in the summer when there is little to no chance of snow and ice.
Does the Icefields Parkway close or is it open all year?
The Icefields Parkway is open all year round; however, avalanches and heavy snow in the winter can cause the stretch of highway to close.
What’s the closest airport to the Icefields Parkway?
The closest airport to the Icefields Parkway is Calgary International Airport (YYC), which is roughly 200 kilometers away from the southern tip of the Icefields Parkway.
Can I camp along the route?
Yes and no. Sleeping in a car, campervan, or RV is forbidden in roadside pullouts, day-use areas, and parking lots. Camping is only allowed in designated campgrounds along the route.
Can I bring my drone and film on the Icefields Parkway?
No, drones are strictly forbidden in all national parks.
Can I bring my Dog to attractions with me?
Yes and no. Both Banff National Park and Jasper National Park offer many trails that allow dogs, but they must stay on a leash at all times. Unfortunately, popular attractions like the Columbia Icefields and the Skywalk do not allow pets.
Well, there you have it – the ultimate guide to driving the Icefields Parkway! As you bask in the beauty of this breathtaking route, don’t let the excitement wane. Dive into our comprehensive Jasper itinerary and discover a myriad of captivating things to do in Jasper upon your arrival. The journey doesn’t end on the road; it extends to the heart of Jasper’s enchanting experiences.
Comments