Alberta’s Icefields Parkway is among the most lovely drives in Canada. Often known as Freeway 93 North, this scenic street stretches between Lake Louise and Jasper within the Canadian Rockies. The Icefields Parkway Drive is understood for its gorgeous views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering mountains attracting guests from around the globe.
The place Is the Icefields Parkway?
Beginning in Banff Nationwide Park and ending in Jasper Nationwide Park in Alberta Canada, the Icefields Parkway is just 293 km (182 miles) and will be finished in a day, however will probably be the busiest day you’ve ever had. So as a substitute, make a base in Jasper or Banff, and take your time to discover all of those superb stops on the Icefields Parkway.
To get to the Icefields Parkway, you’ll both be flying into Edmonton or Calgary Alberta. The closest worldwide airports are Calgary Worldwide Airport (YYC) and Edmonton Worldwide Airport (YEG). From both airport, you may lease a automobile and drive to the beginning of the Icefields Parkway.
By Automotive: For those who’re coming from Calgary, take the Trans-Canada Freeway (Freeway 1) west to Lake Louise. The Icefields Parkway begins simply west of Lake Louise. For those who’re coming from Edmonton, you’d take Freeway 16 west to Jasper, and the Icefields Parkway begins simply south of Jasper.
By Bus: There are bus providers 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 automobile to drive the Icefields Parkway.
At all times examine street situations earlier than you allow. If you’re driving in winter, ensure you have good winter tires as winter climate could make driving hazardous and even shut the street solely.
Parks Canada Cross
Do not forget that a sound park move is required to journey on the Icefields Parkway, because it runs by nationwide parkland. Additionally, the Parkway is in a distant space with restricted providers, so make certain your automobile is in good situation, and it’s advisable to hold some emergency provides reminiscent of meals and water, and blankets within the winter.
When driving to Lake Louise, you will have to buy an entrance move from Parks Canada to the Nationwide Park which is $10 per particular person per day. If you’re going to be spending a number of days within the parks, it’s price it to purchase a Parks Discovery Cross on the Parks Canada web site that prices $139 for a household or $69 per particular person. This provides limitless entry to Canada’s nationwide parks from coast to coast for 12 months! You should buy this on-line right here.
If you’re simply going for a day or two, you should purchase your move on the entrance on the freeway when coming into Banff Nationwide Park from Calgary. Okay, now that we have now the logistics of attending to Banff prepared, let’s begin our Icefields Parkway street journey!
Stops alongside the Icefields Parkway Map
The Icefields Parkway begins in Lake Louise, a small city in the midst of Banff Nationwide Park. It’s 2 hours from the Calgary airport to Lake Louise. We all the time guide a automobile rental to be prepared once we land in Calgary beginning our Alberta journey instantly as soon as we go away the airport.
Greatest Stops Alongside The Icefields Parkway Itinerary
This Alberta street journey is so as of stops from Lake Louise to the city of Jasper. The Icefields Parkway connects Banff and Jasper Nationwide Parks and it’s a street journey by the Canadian Rockies that you simply’ll always remember. I hope this helps you when planning your Icefields Parkway journey! Take pleasure in your journey – the Icefields Parkway is taken into account one of the crucial lovely drives on the earth!
1. Lake Louise
Positioned inside Banff Nationwide Park, Lake Louise is among the most well-known stops in all of Canada (not to mention Alberta). The attractive turquoise waters of Lake Louise sit under the imposing Victoria Glacier looming overhead. Positioned immediately in entrance of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise lodge, there are climbing trails to soak up the view from all instructions and you’ll canoe on Lake Louise. (A bucket record merchandise for Canada vacationers)
When taking your drive alongside the Icefields Parkway, we recommend leaving Lake Louise at dawn so you may get to the long-lasting lakes alongside the drive within the morning earlier than the crowds and whereas the reflections are finest.
For those who can spend a day or two in Banff Nationwide Park or Lake Louise, do it! There are such a lot of issues to see and do right here. We advocate the Fairmont Chateau Louise or Deer Lodge for lodging in Lake Louise.
You’ll be able to 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 primary cease you’ll come two out of Lake Louise is the Crowfoot Glacier viewpoint. Crowfoot Glacier bought its identify from the truth that it’s formed like three claws of a crow. Positioned on Crowfoot Mountain, it appears to be like over Bow Lake. Don’t take too lengthy right here at Crowfoot Glacier, as a result of you’re going to 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 following cease you come to is the spectacular viewpoint of Bow Lake. Simply half-hour up Freeway 93 from the Trans Canada Freeway in Lake Louise, you’ll need to time your drive to reach right here when the solar is up. Bow Lake is positioned on the foot of the Bow Summit which displays completely within the nonetheless waters of Bow Lake. There are trails alongside the shores of the lake for higher views, so be sure you get out of your automobile and enterprise out to see it.
From Bow Lake, you may see Crowfoot Glacier and Bow Glacier each of that are the sources of the Bow River and is a ravishing cease with mountains and glaciers within the backdrop. The lake is true subsequent to the parkway, and there’s a parking space for Num-Ti-Jah Lodge the place you may 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 gives lovely 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.
Listed here are the main points of the hike:
Trailhead: The path begins from the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge 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 Acquire: The path has a reasonable elevation achieve of about 155 meters (510 ft). Problem: The hike is usually thought of reasonable. The path begins off straightforward across the lake, nevertheless it turns into rocky and uneven with a gentle incline as you get nearer to the falls. Good footwear is advisable. Estimated Time: It usually takes about 3-4 hours to finish the spherical journey, relying in your tempo and the way lengthy you spend on the falls. Surroundings: The path gives views of the strikingly blue Bow Lake and the encircling mountain peaks. The trail then leads you towards the top of the lake and up towards Bow Glacier Falls. The ultimate 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 within 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
Positioned immediately at Bow Lake, this historic lodge is an effective place to spend the nigh if you wish to actually spend time photographing Bow Lake within the morning or night. The historic lodge dates again to the Twenties. It’s a country expertise and the eating room is full of previous taxidermy heads of wildlife within the Elk Lodge. Select it for an attention-grabbing keep in Alberta and an early begin on the Icefields Parkway.
Try 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 preferred lake cease alongside the Icefields Parkway. From the parking zone, hike as much as the Peyto Lake Viewpoint and as much as the Bow Summit. At 2,088 meters (6,800 ft) for the perfect views of the vivid turquoise colors of this glacier lake. Cool truth, that is the very best elevation on the drive and it’s the very best elevation crossed by a public street in Canada. (it actually doesn’t really feel that prime when you find yourself there although.
7. Mistaya Canyon
75 km from Lake Louise or 158 km and 1hr 53min from Jasper
Mistaya Canyon is a ravishing geological formation alongside the Icefields Parkway, near Saskatchewan River Crossing in Banff Nationwide Park, Alberta, Canada. The Canyon has been carved out over hundreds of years by the Mistaya River, and the water movement has created a novel, deep canyon with easy, swirling rock partitions.
The hike to Mistaya Canyon is comparatively quick and fairly straightforward, making it a preferred cease for these touring alongside the Parkway. Listed here are some particulars concerning the hike:
Trailhead: The trailhead to Mistaya Canyon is conveniently positioned off the Icefields Parkway. There’s a parking zone from the place the path begins. Distance and Problem: The hike is about 0.5 km (0.3 miles) every manner, or 1 km (0.6 miles) spherical journey, with a gentle descent into the canyon. It’s rated as straightforward, making it accessible for most individuals. Time: Your entire stroll will be accomplished in about 30-45 minutes, however you might need to spend extra time for pictures or simply to benefit from the view. Options: The path leads by a forest earlier than opening as much as the canyon. The canyon itself is slender and deep, with the fast-moving Mistaya River operating by 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. It is a vital cease not just for its lovely view, however it’s also the place the North Saskatchewan River, Mistaya River and the Howse Rivers meet. If it is advisable to go to the lavatory, 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 within the winter when the waterfalls are frozen. It’s also a preferred place (clearly) for mountaineering. Cease right here to see this 100-meter-high (330 ft) rock cliff that’s recognized for its waterfalls that resemble tears as they cascade down the mountain. Naturally, the primary waterfall is named, Teardrop.
10. Massive Bend Peak
115 km from Lake Louise or 119 km and 1hr 25 minutes from Jasper
You’ll be able to’t miss our subsequent cease. Once you look out your window, you’re going to need to get out of the automobile 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’s 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
That is the cease you’ve all been ready for! Columbia Icefield is the primary attraction on the Icefields Parkway. The guests middle is positioned the place Banff Nationwide Park and Jasper Nationwide Park meet. Within the Customer Heart, you may go to the museum, seize some lunch (meals is pricey although so be ready), and take within the views of the Icefield and Athabasca Glacier. You’ll be able to guide excursions right here as effectively.
Excursions refill shortly, so you might need to guide prematurely, however you may get on them (if you’re fortunate on the final minute.
12. Athabasca Glacier
128 km from Lake Louise or 104 km and 1hr and 16 min from Jasper
Probably the greatest adventures we ever had was heading out onto the Athabasca Glacier. You’ll be able to guide a snowcat tour to take you out to see the crevasses and ice caves. The Icefields are the most important nonpolar ice fields on the earth, and when you find yourself out on the Athabasca Glacier, you actually really feel how huge it’s.
You’ll be able to stroll out on some trails from the customer middle for a more in-depth view of the Athabasca Glacier however don’t ever enterprise out on it alone with no information. That is the scariest glacier we’ve ever been on and the ice strikes usually. For those who don’t have professional expertise, you could possibly put your self in peril. Trying right into a crevasse even whereas on a tour with an professional information was scary.
E-book this Columbia Icefield Half Day Tour right here from Jasper. It contains transportation from Jasper, picture 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 assumed the glacier Skywalk was going to be a bit tacky, nevertheless it was unbelievable! It’s the most recent attraction on the Icefields Parkway the place a glass flooring juts out over the Sunwapta Valley. It’s excessive at 280 meters (918 ft) above the valley, so individuals afraid of heights could be a little bit nervous. The 1km walkway has some interpretive stops alongside the way in which 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’ll be able to guide tickets immediately on the Guests Centre and buses go away from there. E-book a whitewater rafting tour of the Sunwapta River by Beautiful surroundings and sophistication 3 rapids.
14. Sunwapta Falls
177 km from Lake Louse or 56km and 44 minutes from Jasper
Congratulations, you’ve got now entered Jasper Nationwide Park. One other Canadian treasure. Because you’ve had a whole lot of adventures on the Glacier Skywalk and customer’s middle you’ve got a little bit of time to loosen up in your drive. Get a cappuccino to go earlier than leaving the customer’s middle to get pleasure from alongside the way in which earlier than you cease on the subsequent lovely viewpoint.
Sunwapta Falls has strolling trails and a bridge to see the 18 meters (60-foot) cascade from totally different viewpoints. It’s a formidable and loud waterfall certainly! Learn extra: 14 Greatest Hikes in Jasper Nationwide Park – Alberta Canada
15. Athabasca Falls
200 km from Lake Louise or 32km and 29 minutes from Jasper
Athabasca Falls is one other beautiful view and is your final cease on the Icefields Parkway earlier than reaching the city of Jasper. Like lots of the stops on the parkway, there are strolling trails to supply totally different viewpoints. The huge quantity of water from the Athabasca River is compelled by a slender gorge creating an immense movement of water over the 23-meter (75 ft) waterfalls. Athabasca Falls is spectacular certainly.
16. City of Jasper
The final cease on Icefields Parkway is the city of Jasper. It is a very good place to make a house base for a few days. Jasper Nationwide Park has an abundance of issues to do. So, guide a room on the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and keep awhile. See our Full Information to all of the Issues to do in Jasper.
17. Suggestions for Driving the Icefields Parkway
It’s best to drive the Icefields Parkway in the summertime months. Winter driving will be treacherous and trails are usually not maintained.
There is just one fuel station on the Icefields Parkway on the Saskatchewan River Crossing so ensure you refill earlier than leaving Lake Louise or Jasper.
The Icefields Parkway Guests Centre is Shut from late October to mid-April. Which means, there are not any glacier excursions or Glacier Skywalk.
The Icefield Parkway will be pushed from Lake Louise to Jasper in 3 hours, a straight shot. However it may take a few days to discover every part listed above. Particularly if you’re going to guide an Athabasca Glacier tour and the Glacier Skywalk go to.
The place to Keep on the Icefields Parkway
There are a number of locations to remain on the Icefields Parkway. It’s restricted and you’ll simply do day journeys from Banff and Jasper. Additionally, resorts are closed for the winter with them opening at numerous instances between March and Could. If you wish to keep proper within the thick of issues to take advantage of out of exploring, listed here are the motels positioned immediately on the Icefields Parkway.
Tenting on the Icefields Parkway
There are 11 Campgrounds on the Icefields Parkway. Charges begin at $16 per day. Test with Banff Nationwide Park and Jasper Nationwide Park for particulars on what campgrounds are open.
Tenting alongside the Icefields Parkway is on a primary come first serve foundation so if you wish to camp, we advocate attending to your campground of selection at 3 pm sharp. (that’s the earliest check-in). Test-out is 11 am.
The closest tenting to Lake Louise on the Glacier Parkway is Mosquito Creek Campground in Banff Nationwide Park.
The closest campgrounds to Jasper are Wapiti Campground and Whistlers Campground. Each are only a few km from the city of Jasper.
What’s the Greatest Time to Drive the Icefields Parkway
The very best time to drive the Icefields Parkway is often in the course of the summer time months (June by 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 absolutely operational.
Nevertheless, take into account that summer time can be the busiest time of 12 months for tourism, so you may anticipate extra visitors and extra individuals on the common websites alongside the parkway.
For those who get pleasure from winter surroundings and don’t thoughts colder climate, the Icefields Parkway will also be lovely within the winter months (December by February), nevertheless it’s essential to be ready for winter driving situations and doable street closures as a result of heavy snowfall. Word that many services might be closed or have diminished hours in the course of the winter.
For those who don’t have winter driving expertise, we don’t advocate driving the Icefields Parkway. It may be harmful. For those who resolve to drive the icefields parkway within the winter, be sure you have snow tires.
In any season, it’s vital to examine the street situations and climate forecast earlier than your journey. At all times 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 will be spotty. Keep in mind to respect the wildlife and maintain the park clear for future guests.
How Lengthy Does it Take to Drive the Icefields Parkway?
Your entire Icefields Parkway stretches 232 kilometers (144 miles) between Lake Louise and Jasper. You’ll be able to technically drive the complete icefields parkway in about 3 to 4 hours continuous, nevertheless, this scenic route gives such breathtaking views and distinctive stops that merely driving straight by would imply lacking out on the complete expertise.
To totally admire the pure magnificence and benefit from the assorted scenic spots, 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 climbing, pictures, wildlife viewing, or simply to loosen up and benefit from the surroundings.
Elements reminiscent of climate, street situations, visitors (particularly throughout peak vacationer season), and private tempo can have an effect on how lengthy the drive takes.
Listed here are some notable sights alongside the parkway that you simply would possibly need to cease and see:
Peyto Lake: Recognized for its intense turquoise coloration, this lake is a must-see. A brief hike will take you to a preferred viewpoint. Columbia Icefield: One of many largest accumulations of ice south of the Arctic Circle. Right here, you may go to the Athabasca glacier discovery middle and take a tour of the glacier itself. Athabasca Falls: Simply off the parkway, this highly effective, picturesque waterfall is price a go to.
Keep in mind, it’s not simply concerning the vacation spot, however the journey as effectively. Taking your time to immerse your self within the gorgeous environment alongside the Icefields Parkway will make for an unforgettable street journey.
Ought to I lease a Automotive to Drive Alongside the Icefields Parkway?
For those who don’t have your personal automobile, you need to positively lease a automobile 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 ought to be finished slowly and by yourself. There are such a lot of locations to cease for scenic views of the magnificent Canadian Rockies and climbing trails out to view its pristine turquoise lakes that you simply’ll be joyful for the wheels.
You’ll be able to examine rental automobile costs at CarRentals.com
The place to Fill Up Alongside the Icefields Parkway
Fueling stations alongside the Icefields Parkway (Freeway 93 North) are comparatively sparse as a result of its location by the center of the wilderness within the Canadian Rockies, so it’s important to plan forward. Right here’s the place you’ll find fuel alongside or close to the route:
Lake Louise: That is the southern place to begin of the Icefields Parkway, and there’s a fuel station right here. It’s smart to refill your tank earlier than you begin the drive. Saskatchewan River Crossing: Roughly midway alongside the parkway, you’ll discover a fuel station on the Saskatchewan River Crossing. Word that this fuel station is often solely open from April to October, and the costs will be considerably greater than elsewhere as a result of its distant location. Jasper: On the northern finish of the Icefields Parkway, Jasper is a completely serviced city with a number of fuel stations. That is the final place to refill in case you’re heading south or the primary in case you’re ranging from the north.
Given the lengthy stretches with out providers, it’s strongly advisable to begin your journey with a full tank of fuel and refuel at Saskatchewan River Crossing if wanted, significantly in case you’re planning on doing any facet journeys or it’s outdoors of the summer time months when providers are extra restricted. As of my data cutoff in September 2021, these had been the one fueling factors immediately on or close to the parkway however all the time examine for essentially the most present data earlier than your journey.
Is there Cell Service on the Icefields Parkway
Mobile service alongside the Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada is kind of restricted as a result of distant nature of the area. There are substantial stretches of the parkway with no mobile phone protection, significantly within the center sections between Lake Louise and Jasper.
You’re going to get cell service in and across 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. Nevertheless, even these areas can have spotty or weak alerts, and protection might fluctuate relying in your service supplier. The Discovery Heart has WiFi.
Due to this, it’s vital to be ready for stretches of your journey the place you received’t have cell service:
Plan your route and stops prematurely. Obtain any maps, path guides, or different data you would possibly want forward of time. Inform somebody of your plans earlier than you go. Carry a conventional paper map as a backup. For those who plan on climbing, think about carrying a satellite-based emergency communication system.
Keep in mind, emergency roadside telephones are positioned at numerous intervals alongside the Icefields Parkway to be used in case of a breakdown or emergency. At all times examine essentially the most present details about providers and situations from Parks Canada earlier than you set out in your journey.
The place 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 on the Crossing Café. Saskatchewan River Crossing: There’s a restaurant at The Crossing Resort, which is open seasonally (usually April by October). supply a spread of meals, and there’s additionally a comfort retailer the place you may 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 give a spread of meal choices. Nevertheless, it’s additionally seasonal and usually operates from April by October. Num-Ti-Jah Lodge: This historic lodge close to Bow Lake has a eating room that provides meals, usually open from Could to October. Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge: Positioned 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, in case you favor to deliver your personal meals. This is usually a good choice because it offers you flexibility and you’ll get pleasure from your meal surrounded by gorgeous views. Simply bear in mind to observe all park guidelines and pointers for waste disposal to guard the atmosphere.
What Wildlife Will I see alongside the Icefields Parkway?
The Icefields Parkway in Alberta, Canada, cuts by among the most gorgeous wilderness within the Canadian Rockies, so there’s likelihood you would possibly see numerous species of wildlife throughout your journey. Nevertheless, sightings can by no means be assured and rely on elements such because the season, climate, and time of day. Listed here are some animals you would possibly encounter:
Bears: Each black bears and grizzly bears dwell on this area. They’re extra generally seen within the spring and early summer time, typically on the roadside consuming the contemporary inexperienced vegetation. Keep in mind to maintain a secure distance, by no means feed them, and don’t get out of your automobile to take pictures. Elk: Elk are widespread within the area, particularly within the meadows and grasslands. Males with their giant antlers are a formidable sight, significantly within the fall in the course of the rut (mating season). Massive Horn Sheep & Mountain Goats: Each bighorn sheep and mountain goats can typically be seen alongside the Parkway, generally even on the street itself. Search 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, significantly in marshy areas or close to water our bodies. Wolves, Coyotes, and Foxes: These predators are extra elusive, however they do dwell within the space. Early morning or late night are the perfect instances to doubtlessly spot them. Birds: Many species of birds will be seen, together with eagles, hawks, and numerous songbirds. Close to water our bodies, you would possibly see waterfowl like geese, geese, and loons. Small Mammals: Preserve a watch out for animals like squirrels, chipmunks, marmots, and pikas within the rocky areas.
And these are essentially the most superb stops in your street journey from Banff to Jasper. You may as well drive from Jasper to Banff, (we’ve finished each!) and it’s superb to see the views from every finish of the Icefields Parkway.