Alberta’s Icefields Parkway is one in every of the most stunning drives in Canada. Also often known as Highway 93 North, this scenic highway stretches between Lake Louise and Jasper in the Canadian Rockies. The Icefields Parkway Drive is thought for its beautiful views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering mountains attracting guests from round the world.
Where Is the Icefields Parkway?
Starting in Banff National Park and ending in Jasper National Park in Alberta Canada, the Icefields Parkway is barely 293 km (182 miles) and may be accomplished in a day, however it is going to be the busiest day you’ve ever had. So as an alternative, make a base in Jasper or Banff, and take your time to discover all of those wonderful stops on the Icefields Parkway.
To get to the Icefields Parkway, you’ll both be flying into Edmonton or Calgary Alberta. The nearest worldwide airports are Calgary International Airport (YYC) and Edmonton International Airport (YEG). From both airport, you possibly can lease a automotive and drive to the begin of the Icefields Parkway.
By Car: If you’re coming from Calgary, take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) west to Lake Louise. The Icefields Parkway begins simply west of Lake Louise. If you’re coming from Edmonton, you’d take Highway 16 west to Jasper, and the Icefields Parkway begins simply south of Jasper.
By Bus: There are bus companies that function from Calgary and Edmonton to Banff and Jasper, respectively. From there, you could possibly doubtlessly be part of a tour or rent a automotive to drive the Icefields Parkway.
Always examine highway situations earlier than you permit. If you might be driving in winter, be sure to have good winter tires as winter climate could make driving hazardous and even shut the highway solely.
Parks Canada Pass
Remember {that a} legitimate park cross is required to journey on the Icefields Parkway, because it runs by way of nationwide parkland. Also, the Parkway is in a distant space with restricted companies, so be sure your car is in good situation, and it’s advisable to hold some emergency provides resembling meals and water, and blankets in the winter.
When driving to Lake Louise, you will have to buy an entrance cross from Parks Canada to the National Park which is $10 per particular person per day. If you will be spending a number of days in the parks, it’s price it to purchase a Parks Discovery Pass at the Parks Canada web site that prices $139 for a household or $69 per particular person. This offers limitless entry to Canada’s nationwide parks from coast to coast for 12 months! You should buy this on-line right here.
If you might be simply going for a day or two, you should buy your cross at the entrance on the freeway when coming into Banff National Park from Calgary. Okay, now that we now have the logistics of attending to Banff prepared, let’s begin our Icefields Parkway highway journey!
Stops alongside the Icefields Parkway Map
The Icefields Parkway begins in Lake Louise, a small city in the center of Banff National Park. It is 2 hours from the Calgary airport to Lake Louise. We all the time e book a automotive rental to be prepared after we land in Calgary beginning our Alberta journey instantly as soon as we go away the airport.
Best Stops Along The Icefields Parkway Itinerary
This Alberta highway journey is so as of stops from Lake Louise to the city of Jasper. The Icefields Parkway connects Banff and Jasper National Parks and it’s a highway journey by way of the Canadian Rockies that you simply’ll always remember. I hope this helps you when planning your Icefields Parkway journey! Enjoy your journey – the Icefields Parkway is taken into account one in every of the most stunning drives in the world!
1. Lake Louise
Located inside Banff National Park, Lake Louise is one in every of the most well-known stops in all of Canada (not to mention Alberta). The stunning turquoise waters of Lake Louise sit under the imposing Victoria Glacier looming overhead. Located instantly in entrance of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise lodge, there are mountain climbing trails to soak up the view from all instructions and you’ll canoe on Lake Louise. (A bucket checklist merchandise for Canada vacationers)
When taking your drive alongside the Icefields Parkway, we propose leaving Lake Louise at dawn so you may get to the iconic lakes alongside the drive in the morning earlier than the crowds and whereas the reflections are greatest.
If you possibly can spend a day or two in Banff National Park or Lake Louise, do it! There are so many issues to see and do right here. We suggest the Fairmont Chateau Louise or Deer Lodge for lodging in Lake Louise.
You can learn extra details about Banff Lake Louise right here:
30 Minutes – 32 km (21 Miles) from Lake Louise or 2 hr/14 minutes – 196km from Jasper
The first cease you’ll come two out of Lake Louise is the Crowfoot Glacier viewpoint. Crowfoot Glacier received its identify from the indisputable fact that it’s formed like three claws of a crow. Located on Crowfoot Mountain, it seems to be over Bow Lake. Don’t take too lengthy right here at Crowfoot Glacier, as a result of you will need to get to your subsequent cease which is Bow Lake.
3. Bow Lake
half-hour from Lake Louise 39 km (24 miles) or 194km 2hr and 14 min from Jasper
The subsequent cease you come to is the spectacular viewpoint of Bow Lake. Just half-hour up Highway 93 from the Trans Canada Highway in Lake Louise, you’ll need to time your drive to reach right here when the solar is up. Bow Lake is situated at the foot of the Bow Summit which displays completely in the nonetheless waters of Bow Lake. There are trails alongside the shores of the lake for higher views, so remember to get out of your automotive and enterprise out to see it.
From Bow Lake, you possibly can see Crowfoot Glacier and Bow Glacier each of that are the sources of the Bow River and is a stupendous cease with mountains and glaciers in the backdrop. The lake is true subsequent to the parkway, and there’s a parking space for Num-Ti-Jah Lodge the place you possibly can cease and discover the lake’s shore.
4. Bow Glacier Falls Hike
half-hour from Lake Louise 39 km (24 miles) or 194km 2hr and 14 min from Jasper
This hike affords stunning views of Bow Lake, Bow Glacier, and ultimately the spectacular Bow Glacier Falls. The waterfall is fed by meltwater from the Bow Glacier, which is a part of the Wapta Icefield.
Here are the particulars of the hike:
Trailhead: The path begins from the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge car parking zone on the Icefields Parkway, simply by Bow Lake. Distance: The round-trip hike to Bow Glacier Falls is about 9 km (5.6 miles). Elevation Gain: The path has a reasonable elevation achieve of about 155 meters (510 toes). Difficulty: The hike is usually thought of reasonable. The path begins off simple round the lake, however it turns into rocky and uneven with a gentle incline as you get nearer to the falls. Good footwear is advisable. Estimated Time: It sometimes takes about 3-4 hours to finish the spherical journey, relying in your tempo and the way lengthy you spend at the falls. Scenery: The path offers views of the strikingly blue Bow Lake and the surrounding mountain peaks. The path then leads you towards the head of the lake and up towards Bow Glacier Falls. The last vacation spot is a close-up view of the waterfall cascading down from the glacier above. On a sunny day, you would possibly even see a rainbow in the mist of the waterfall.
5. Num Ti Jah Lodge
half-hour from Lake Louise 39 km (24 miles) or 194km 2hr and 14 min from Jasper
Located instantly at Bow Lake, this historic lodge is an effective place to spend the nigh if you wish to actually spend time photographing Bow Lake in the morning or night. The historic lodge dates again to the Twenties. It’s a country expertise and the eating room is crammed with outdated taxidermy heads of wildlife in the Elk Lodge. Choose it for an attention-grabbing keep in Alberta and an early begin on the Icefields Parkway.
Check out the lodging right here. See our decisions for the place to remain in Banff right here.
6. Peyto Lake
44 km (27 miles) from Lake Louise or 190 km – 2hrs and 14 min from Jasper
Peyto Lake is the hottest lake cease alongside the Icefields Parkway. From the car parking zone, hike as much as the Peyto Lake Viewpoint and as much as the Bow Summit. At 2,088 meters (6,800 toes) for the greatest views of the vivid turquoise colors of this glacier lake. Cool reality, that is the highest elevation on the drive and it’s the highest elevation crossed by a public highway in Canada. (it actually doesn’t really feel that top if you end up there although.
7. Mistaya Canyon
75 km from Lake Louise or 158 km and 1hr 53min from Jasper
Mistaya Canyon is a stupendous geological formation alongside the Icefields Parkway, near Saskatchewan River Crossing in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. The Canyon has been carved out over 1000’s of years by the Mistaya River, and the water move has created a novel, deep canyon with clean, swirling rock partitions.
The hike to Mistaya Canyon is comparatively brief and fairly simple, making it a well-liked cease for these touring alongside the Parkway. Here are some particulars about the hike:
Trailhead: The trailhead to Mistaya Canyon is conveniently situated off the Icefields Parkway. There’s a car parking zone from the place the path begins. Distance and Difficulty: The hike is about 0.5 km (0.3 miles) every approach, or 1 km (0.6 miles) spherical journey, with a gentle descent into the canyon. It’s rated as simple, making it accessible for most individuals. Time: The complete stroll may be accomplished in about 30-45 minutes, however chances are you’ll need to spend further time for photographs or simply to take pleasure in the view. Features: The path leads by way of a forest earlier than opening as much as the canyon. The canyon itself is slim and deep, with the fast-moving Mistaya River working by way of it. There’s a bridge that crosses the canyon, providing a wonderful viewpoint.
8. Saskatchewan River Crossing
79 km from Lake Louise or 153 km and 1hr 49min from Jasper
After viewing the lake, our subsequent place to see is the Saskatchewan River Crossing. This is a big cease not just for its stunning view, however it is usually the place the North Saskatchewan River, Mistaya River and the Howse Rivers meet. If it is advisable go to the toilet, that is the place to do it as there are services right here with a restaurant and fuel station.
9. Weeping Wall
106 km from Lake Louise or 125 km and 90 minutes from Jasper
The Weeping Wall is most spectacular in the winter when the waterfalls are frozen. It can also be a well-liked place (clearly) for mountaineering. Stop right here to see this 100-meter-high (330 toes) rock cliff that’s identified for its waterfalls that resemble tears as they cascade down the mountain. Naturally, the most important waterfall is named, Teardrop.
10. Big Bend Peak
115 km from Lake Louise or 119 km and 1hr 25 minutes from Jasper
You can’t miss our subsequent cease. When you look out your window, you will need to get out of the automotive for this view! This flip alongside the drive has a pull-off the place you may get out and have a look at the huge valley surrounded by jagged peaks. It is our favorite viewpoint on the Icefields Parkway.
11. Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre
128 km from Lake Louise or 104 km and 1hr and 16 min from Jasper
This is the cease you’ve all been ready for! Columbia Icefield is the most important attraction on the Icefields Parkway. The guests middle is situated the place Banff National Park and Jasper National Park meet. In the Visitor Center, you possibly can go to the museum, seize some lunch (meals is pricey although so be ready), and absorb the views of the Icefield and Athabasca Glacier. You can e book excursions right here as effectively.
Tours replenish shortly, so chances are you’ll need to e book upfront, however you may get on them (if you’re fortunate at the final minute.
12. Athabasca Glacier
128 km from Lake Louise or 104 km and 1hr and 16 min from Jasper
One of the greatest adventures we ever had was heading out onto the Athabasca Glacier. You can e book a snowcat tour to take you out to see the crevasses and ice caves. The Icefields are the largest nonpolar ice fields in the world, and if you end up out on the Athabasca Glacier, you actually really feel how huge it’s.
You can stroll out on some trails from the customer middle for a better view of the Athabasca Glacier however don’t ever enterprise out on it alone and not using a information. This is the scariest glacier we’ve ever been on and the ice strikes often. If you don’t have knowledgeable expertise, you could possibly put your self in peril. Looking right into a crevasse even whereas on a tour with an knowledgeable information was scary.
Book this Columbia Icefield Half Day Tour right here from Jasper. It contains transportation from Jasper, photograph stops at Athabasca Falls and Stutfield Glacier, an Ice Cat tour of the Athabasca Glacier, and the Icefield Skywalk with lunch!
13. Glacier Skywalk
128 km from Lake Louise or 104 km and 1hr and 16 min from Jasper
I’ll admit, I believed the glacier Skywalk was going to be a bit tacky, however it was improbable! It’s the latest attraction on the Icefields Parkway the place a glass ground juts out over the Sunwapta Valley. It’s excessive at 280 meters (918 toes) above the valley, so individuals afraid of heights could be slightly nervous. The 1km walkway has some interpretive stops alongside the approach and guides can be found to reply your questions, however the piece de resistance is the glass walkway providing spectacular views of the valley.
You can e book tickets instantly at the Visitors Centre and buses go away from there. Book a whitewater rafting tour of the Sunwapta River by way of Gorgeous surroundings and sophistication 3 rapids.
14. Sunwapta Falls
177 km from Lake Louse or 56km and 44 minutes from Jasper
Congratulations, you will have now entered Jasper National Park. Another Canadian treasure. Since you’ve had plenty of adventures at the Glacier Skywalk and customer’s middle you will have a little bit of time to calm down in your drive. Get a cappuccino to go earlier than leaving the customer’s middle to take pleasure in alongside the approach earlier than you cease at the subsequent stunning viewpoint.
Sunwapta Falls has strolling trails and a bridge to see the 18 meters (60-foot) cascade from completely different viewpoints. It’s a powerful and loud waterfall certainly! Read extra: 14 Best Hikes in Jasper National Park – Alberta Canada
15. Athabasca Falls
200 km from Lake Louise or 32km and 29 minutes from Jasper
Athabasca Falls is one other attractive view and is your final cease on the Icefields Parkway earlier than reaching the city of Jasper. Like a lot of the stops on the parkway, there are strolling trails to supply completely different viewpoints. The huge quantity of water from the Athabasca River is compelled by way of a slim gorge creating an immense move of water over the 23-meter (75 toes) waterfalls. Athabasca Falls is spectacular certainly.
16. Town of Jasper
The final cease on Icefields Parkway is the city of Jasper. This is an outstanding place to make a house base for a few days. Jasper National Park has an abundance of issues to do. So, e book a room at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and keep awhile. See our Complete Guide to all the Things to do in Jasper.
17. Tips for Driving the Icefields Parkway
It is greatest to drive the Icefields Parkway in the summer time months. Winter driving may be treacherous and trails should not maintained.
There is just one fuel station on the Icefields Parkway at the Saskatchewan River Crossing so be sure to replenish earlier than leaving Lake Louise or Jasper.
The Icefields Parkway Visitors Centre is Close from late October to mid-April. Meaning, there are not any glacier excursions or Glacier Skywalk.
The Icefield Parkway may be pushed from Lake Louise to Jasper in 3 hours, a straight shot. But it could take a few days to discover every little thing listed above. Especially if you will e book an Athabasca Glacier tour and the Glacier Skywalk go to.
Where to Stay on the Icefields Parkway
There are a number of locations to remain on the Icefields Parkway. It is proscribed and you’ll simply do day journeys from Banff and Jasper. Also, resorts are closed for the winter with them opening at varied occasions between March and May. If you need to keep proper in the thick of issues to make the most out of exploring, listed here are the resorts situated instantly on the Icefields Parkway.
Camping on the Icefields Parkway
There are 11 Campgrounds on the Icefields Parkway. Rates begin at $16 per day. Check with Banff National Park and Jasper National Park for particulars on what campgrounds are open.
Camping alongside the Icefields Parkway is on a primary come first serve foundation so if you wish to camp, we suggest attending to your campground of selection at 3 pm sharp. (that’s the earliest check-in). Check-out is 11 am.
The closest tenting to Lake Louise on the Glacier Parkway is Mosquito Creek Campground in Banff National Park.
The closest campgrounds to Jasper are Wapiti Campground and Whistlers Campground. Both are only a few km from the city of Jasper.
What is the Best Time to Drive the Icefields Parkway
The greatest time to drive the Icefields Parkway is usually throughout the summer time months (June by way of September). The climate throughout these months is normally delicate, with temperatures starting from 15 to 25 levels Celsius (59-77 Fahrenheit). It’s additionally when the parks’ services, like customer facilities and campgrounds, are totally operational.
However, needless to say summer time can also be the busiest time of 12 months for tourism, so you possibly can count on extra site visitors and extra individuals at the in style websites alongside the parkway.
If you take pleasure in winter surroundings and don’t thoughts colder climate, the Icefields Parkway may also be stunning in the winter months (December by way of February), however it’s essential to be ready for winter driving situations and doable highway closures on account of heavy snowfall. Note that many services can be closed or have decreased hours throughout the winter.
If you don’t have winter driving expertise, we don’t suggest driving the Icefields Parkway. It may be harmful. If you determine to drive the icefields parkway in the winter, remember to have snow tires.
In any season, it’s essential to examine the highway situations and climate forecast earlier than your journey. Always have a full tank of fuel earlier than you begin (as there are lengthy stretches with out fuel stations), and carry a map since cell service may be spotty. Remember to respect the wildlife and hold the park clear for future guests.
How Long Does it Take to Drive the Icefields Parkway?
The complete Icefields Parkway stretches 232 kilometers (144 miles) between Lake Louise and Jasper. You can technically drive the complete icefields parkway in about 3 to 4 hours continuous, nevertheless, this scenic route affords such breathtaking views and distinctive stops that merely driving straight by way of would imply lacking out on the full expertise.
To totally recognize the pure magnificence and reap the benefits of the varied scenic spots, mountain climbing trails, and picnic areas alongside the route, it’s advisable to dedicate a full day to this drive. Some individuals even stretch it over a number of days to have extra time for mountain climbing, images, wildlife viewing, or simply to calm down and luxuriate in the surroundings.
Factors resembling climate, highway situations, site visitors (particularly throughout peak vacationer season), and private tempo can have an effect on how lengthy the drive takes.
Here are some notable points of interest alongside the parkway that you simply would possibly need to cease and see:
Peyto Lake: Known for its intense turquoise colour, this lake is a must-see. A brief hike will take you to a well-liked viewpoint. Columbia Icefield: One of the largest accumulations of ice south of the Arctic Circle. Here, you possibly can go to the Athabasca glacier discovery middle and take a tour of the glacier itself. Athabasca Falls: Just off the parkway, this highly effective, picturesque waterfall is price a go to.
Remember, it’s not nearly the vacation spot, however the journey as effectively. Taking your time to immerse your self in the beautiful environment alongside the Icefields Parkway will make for an unforgettable highway journey.
Should I lease a Car to Drive Along the Icefields Parkway?
If you don’t have your individual automotive, it is best to positively lease a automotive to drive alongside the Icefields Parkway. There are bus excursions that may take you out to see the Athabasca Glacier and SkyWalk, however the Icefields Parkway is a drive that must be accomplished slowly and by yourself. There are so many locations to cease for scenic views of the magnificent Canadian Rockies and mountain climbing trails out to view its pristine turquoise lakes that you simply’ll be pleased for the wheels.
You can examine rental automotive costs at CarLeases.com
Where to Fill Up Along the Icefields Parkway
Fueling stations alongside the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 North) are comparatively sparse on account of its location by way of the coronary heart of the wilderness in the Canadian Rockies, so it’s important to plan forward. Here’s the place you could find fuel alongside or close to the route:
Lake Louise: This is the southern start line of the Icefields Parkway, and there’s a fuel station right here. It’s sensible to replenish your tank earlier than you begin the drive. Saskatchewan River Crossing: Approximately midway alongside the parkway, you will see that a fuel station at the Saskatchewan River Crossing. Note that this fuel station is usually solely open from April to October, and the costs may be considerably increased than elsewhere on account of its distant location. Jasper: At the northern finish of the Icefields Parkway, Jasper is a completely serviced city with a number of fuel stations. This is the final place to replenish for those who’re heading south or the first for those who’re ranging from the north.
Given the lengthy stretches with out companies, it’s strongly advisable to begin your journey with a full tank of fuel and refuel at Saskatchewan River Crossing if wanted, notably for those who’re planning on doing any aspect journeys or it’s outdoors of the summer time months when companies are extra restricted. As of my information cutoff in September 2021, these had been the solely fueling factors instantly on or close to the parkway however all the time examine for the most present info earlier than your journey.
Is there Cell Service on the Icefields Parkway
Cellular service alongside the Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada is kind of restricted on account of the distant nature of the area. There are substantial stretches of the parkway with no cellular phone protection, notably in the center sections between Lake Louise and Jasper.
You will get cell service in and round the cities at both finish of the Parkway (Lake Louise and Jasper) and probably close to the Saskatchewan River Crossing and the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. However, even these areas can have spotty or weak alerts, and protection might fluctuate relying in your service supplier. The Discovery Center has WiFi.
Because of this, it’s essential to be ready for stretches of your journey the place you gained’t have cell service:
Plan your route and stops upfront. Download any maps, path guides, or different info you would possibly want forward of time. Inform somebody of your plans earlier than you go. Carry a conventional paper map as a backup. If you intend on mountain climbing, contemplate carrying a satellite-based emergency communication machine.
Remember, emergency roadside telephones are situated at varied intervals alongside the Icefields Parkway to be used in case of a breakdown or emergency. Always examine the most present details about companies and situations from Parks Canada earlier than you set out in your journey.
Where to Eat on the Icefields Parkway
Num Ti Jah Lodge has a eating room and cafe. The Crossing has a basic retailer to select up snacks. There’s additionally the Parkway Pub providing views of Mt. Sarbach and Mt. Murchison and you’ll seize lunch at the Crossing Café. Saskatchewan River Crossing: There’s a restaurant at The Crossing Resort, which is open seasonally (sometimes April by way of October). provide a variety of meals, and there’s additionally a comfort retailer the place you possibly can choose up snacks or picnic provides. The Saskatchewan River Crossing closes for the winter. Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre: The Discovery Centre has a eating room and a cafeteria, which offer a variety of meal choices. However, it’s additionally seasonal and sometimes operates from April by way of October. Num-Ti-Jah Lodge: This historic lodge close to Bow Lake has a eating room that provides meals, sometimes open from May to October. Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge: Located nearer to the Jasper finish of the Parkway, this lodge has a restaurant and a quick meals outlet. The Icefields Parkway additionally has a number of picnic areas, for those who desire to convey your individual meals. This could be a good possibility because it offers you flexibility and you’ll take pleasure in your meal surrounded by beautiful views. Just bear in mind to comply with all park guidelines and tips for waste disposal to guard the atmosphere.
What Wildlife Will I see alongside the Icefields Parkway?
The Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada, cuts by way of a few of the most beautiful wilderness in the Canadian Rockies, so there’s a great probability you would possibly see varied species of wildlife throughout your journey. However, sightings can by no means be assured and rely on components resembling the season, climate, and time of day. Here are some animals you would possibly encounter:
Bears: Both black bears and grizzly bears stay on this area. They are extra generally seen in the spring and early summer time, typically on the roadside consuming the recent inexperienced vegetation. Remember to maintain a protected distance, by no means feed them, and don’t get out of your automotive to take photographs. Elk: Elk are widespread in the area, particularly in the meadows and grasslands. Males with their giant antlers are a powerful sight, notably in the fall throughout the rut (mating season). Big Horn Sheep & Mountain Goats: Both bighorn sheep and mountain goats can typically be seen alongside the Parkway, generally even on the highway itself. Look for them on rocky slopes and close to the cliffs. Moose: Moose are much less generally seen than another animals, however you would possibly get fortunate, notably in marshy areas or close to water our bodies. Wolves, Coyotes, and Foxes: These predators are extra elusive, however they do stay in the space. Early morning or late night are the greatest occasions to doubtlessly spot them. Birds: Many species of birds may be seen, together with eagles, hawks, and varied songbirds. Near water our bodies, you would possibly see waterfowl like geese, geese, and loons. Small Mammals: Keep an eye fixed out for animals like squirrels, chipmunks, marmots, and pikas in the rocky areas.
And these are the most wonderful stops in your highway journey from Banff to Jasper. You can even drive from Jasper to Banff, (we’ve accomplished each!) and it’s wonderful to see the views from every finish of the Icefields Parkway.