The Complete Icefields Parkway Itinerary – Banff to Jasper
Icefields Parkway Itinerary
Driving the Icefields Parkway has long been a bucket list item for us. Called one of the most scenic drives in the world, how could we, as Canadians, NOT add this Icefields Parkway itinerary to our to-do list when travelling to Alberta!
What is the Icefields Parkway?
The Icefields Parkway is a 232-kilometre (144 miles) stretch of highway which runs through the Canadian Rocky Mountains, taking you past incredible mountain views, iconic lakes, and seemingly-endless photo opportunities.
How Many Days Do You Need to Experience the Icefields Parkway?
Unfortunately, with all the incredible vistas that you will find along the Parkway, they end up posing a problem to most travellers! In order to stop at every point of interest along the Icefields Parkway, and do all of the hikes, you would most likely need at least 2 full days!
While this may not seem like an issue when taking such a scenic road trip, the unfortunate fact is that there are very limited accommodations available. And the accommodations that are available, book up pretty far in advance, and come with pretty inflated price tags!
As a result, most people look for a one-day Icefields Parkway itinerary. With careful planning, you can actually take in quite a bit, including all the major sights, in one FULL day!
This Icefields Parkway itinerary gives all the best points of interest when travelling from one end to the other. We chose not to include the start and endpoints (Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper), as those places truly need full days each to explore.
Note: This Icefields Parkway itinerary gives points of interest in order when travelling from Banff to Jasper. You can also easily complete the drive in the reverse direction, starting in Jasper, and still have an amazing experience.
1. Herbert Lake
The very first stop on our incredible Icefields Parkway itinerary is Herbert Lake. Located shortly after passing through the park gates, this lake is a favourite with the locals for swimming during the summer.
The nice thing about stopping at Herbert Lake is it is only a few short steps from the parking lot. From there, you are greeted with amazing lake views, as well as views of Mount Temple in the background.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 5.7 km
- Distance from Jasper: 226 km
2. Hector Lake
The next stop on our itinerary is Hector Lake. There is a place to pull over on the roadside, however, this stop is still pretty easy to miss.
Hector Lake is one of the less-visited stops on our Icefields Parkway itinerary. This is because the roadside area only offers partially obstructed views of the lake.
If you are looking for the full experience, you will need to hike the 2.2 km to reach the lake. The hike is easy and well worth it, but it does require extra time out of your day.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 21.5 km
- Distance from Jasper: 210 km
3. Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint
This stop along the Icefields Parkway offers spectacular views of the Crowfoot Glacier. The glacier, so named because it was once the shape of a crow’s foot, is wedged between two mountains and feeds the Bow River as it melts.
And although the glacier has been receding (and changing shape) over the years, it is still quite large and easily visible from the Icefields Parkway.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 37.2 km
- Distance from Jasper: 196 km
4. Bow Lake
One of our favourite stops on this Icefields Parkway itinerary is Bow Lake. As one of the largest lakes in Banff National Park, Bow Lake sits at an elevation of 1,920 m (6,300 ft).
Bow Lake lies at the base of Bow Summit and is fed by meltwater from the Bow Glacier in the Wapta Icefield. The gorgeous turquoise waters perfectly reflect the surrounding mountains on a calm day.
This incredible viewpoint makes a great place for a nice picnic, canoe, stand-up paddleboard, or a hike to Bow Glacier Falls. Unfortunately, this stop is incredibly popular for tour buses, so expect crowds.
Insider Tip: If the parking lot closest to the highway is full, just head further up the road. There is a big parking lot at Simpson’s Num-Ti-Jah Lodge, and it affords you a completely different view of the lake. The lot also has several pit toilets and garbage cans.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 38.7 km
- Distance from Jasper: 194 km
5. Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake (PEE-toh) is definitely a must-stop on our Icefields Parkway itinerary. Considered one of the most popular lakes to visit in Banff National Park (after Moraine Lake and Lake Louise), it boasts jaw-dropping turquoise water and is nestled amongst the mountains and lush forests.
The scenic overlook is about a 10-minute walk from the parking lot and is easily accessible for most people. In fact, it is one of the few stops on our Icefields Parkway itinerary that has a handicap-accessible section.
Insider Tip – It’s really easy to miss the Peyto Lake viewing point! Watch for the Bow Summit sign where you will turn left. Driving from Jasper to Banff there is proper signage for Peyto Lake, but unfortunately, no signage exists on the Banff to Jasper route.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 43.9 km
- Distance from Jasper: 188 km
6. Waterfowl Lake Viewpoint
The Waterfowl Lakes are two glacial-fed lakes that are quite popular with canoers, kayakers, and stand-up paddleboarders. This is because there is no hiking involved if you want to see the two lakes; the parking area is lakeside!
If you are interested in hiking, the Waterfowl Lakes Trail is an easy and family-friendly hike that can be picked up from the same trailhead as Cirque and Chephren Lakes.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 58.2 km
- Distance from Jasper: 173 km
7. Mistaya Canyon
Mistaya Canyon is definitely one of the more popular points of interest along the Icefields Parkway. Unfortunately, the parking area is pretty limited, so it does get busy during the peak summer season.
The canyon is located down a short .5 km trail, where you will come to a well-maintained fenced bridge. The path is mostly packed dirt but has plenty of rocks that might make it difficult for some.
Mistaya Canyon is incredible! Watching the powerful water as it roars through the rock canyon beneath your feet is absolutely mesmerizing!
- Distance from Lake Louise: 73.5 km
- Distance from Jasper: 158 km
8. Saskatchewan River Crossing Café and Gas Station
The Saskatchewan River Crossing is the only stop on our Icefields Parkway itinerary that may be a necessity, rather than a must-see. This is the last place you can get gas before Jasper!
So even though the prices are extremely inflated, if you need to fill up, you should do it here. The River Crossing also has public restrooms, a small cafe, and a convenience store/souvenir shop.
Outdoors, you will find a seating area with pretty nice views of the mountains, as well as some really interesting and informative plaques about the history of the area. We learned that the site is pretty significant, in that it is where three rivers meet: the North Saskatchewan, the Howse River, and the Mistaya.
And just a heads-up, the River Crossing can get pretty busy during the high season, with many of the coach tours using this as a rest stop.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 78.7 km
- Distance from Jasper: 153 km
9. The Weeping Wall
The Weeping Wall is a set of 1,000-foot tall cliffs, located at the base of Cirrus Mountain. You will see them on your right side as you are driving from Banff to Jasper.
During the warmer months, you will notice a series of small waterfalls that are caused by the melting snow and ice. Because of this, the cliff face appears to “weep” (hence the name), with the largest waterfall being called the “Teardrop.”
During the winter months, the waterfalls freeze and the cliffs become a popular spot for ice climbing.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 107 km
- Distance from Jasper: 124 km
10. Big Bend and Big Hill
One of the points of interest along our Icefields Parkway Itinerary is one that you have no choice over! Big Bend is the name of a gigantic curve in the road, that you need to drive along.
And trust us, you will know it when you see it! Unfortunately, there is no real place to pull off the road safely at Big Bend, so if you plan to stop, please be very careful!
Once you make your way around Big Bend, the Parkway will start to climb up the mountain, or “Big Hill.” At the top, you will find a pullover bay on your right side.
The pullover bay is pretty large, allowing you to safely get off the road and get out of your vehicle. This is the perfect spot to grab a photo of the Icefields Parkway below (provided it is a clear day).
- Distance from Lake Louise: 115 km
- Distance from Jasper: 116 km
11. Parker Ridge Trail
Parker Ridge Trail is another one of the longer hiking stops on this Icefields Parkway itinerary. This 2.5 km hike has a gradual incline to the ridge, is well-marked, and is easy enough for families with younger children to accomplish in 2-3 hours.
Considered one of the best hikes on the Icefields Parkway, the vistas from the ridge are absolutely spectacular! You will be rewarded with incredible views of the Saskatchewan Glacier, as well as the massive Icefields and turquoise waters of the glacier lakes.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 119 km
- Distance from Jasper: 112 km
12. Wilcox Pass Lookout
Wilcox Pass is another one of the longer hiking stops on our Icefields Parkway itinerary. The hike is 9.3 km long with a 522 m elevation gain and will take you 3-5 hours to complete.
Wilcox Pass offers incredible views of Mount Athabasca and Mount Andromeda, which are two of the tallest mountains in the Canadian Rockies. The hike runs along the border between Banff National Park and Jasper National Park.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 126 km
- Distance from Jasper: 105 km
13. Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefield
The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre is the perfect addition to any Icefields Parkway itinerary. Not only can you book some really cool excursions here, but you can also grab a bite to eat, stretch your legs while shopping in the gift shop, or enjoy the luxury of indoor public restrooms.
If you are interested in seeing the Athabasca Glacier without having to trek it yourself, hop onboard the Ice Explorer! This rugged vehicle takes you on an exciting trip up the mountain, where you will actually be able to get out and walk on the glacier.
The tour also includes admission and transportation to and from the Columbia Icefields Skywalk.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 130 km
- Distance from Jasper: 105 km
Click here to book your own COOL Ice Explorer Glacier Tour and Glacier Skywalk adventure.
14. Toe of the Glacier
If an organized tour is not your thing, but you still would like to get a closer glimpse of the Athabasca Glacier, then you may want to consider a short hike! And the best part is, the hike is open year-round and is absolutely FREE!
The hike to the base of the Athabasca Glacier, or the ‘Toe’ as they call it, is an easy 1.4 km (a little less than 1 mile). But just be warned, it is uphill the whole way!
You can find the dirt parking area for the Toe of the Athabasca Glacier hike directly across from the Discovery Centre. The trailhead can be found adjacent to the parking area.
The Hike
From there, walk across a small footbridge and then start climbing the fairly steep incline to the base of the glacier. As you ascend, you will see a few panels along the hiking pathway that provide you with a ton of knowledge related to glaciers.
Sadly, today the Athabasca Glacier is only half the size it was 125 years ago; receding at a rate of approximately 5 m (16.5 ft) per year. In fact, to help illustrate this point, year markers have been placed along the hiking trail indicating where the Athabasca Glacier used to reach at that time.
One word of caution, once you reach the Toe of the Glacier, you will find a rope marking the trail. It is extremely dangerous to proceed outside of the specified trail area or beyond the rope marking. Kids should be supervised carefully.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 130 km
- Distance from Jasper: 105 km
15. The Columbia Icefields Skywalk
One of the most popular attractions at Athabasca Glacier is the Columbia Icefields Skywalk. The Skywalk features a glass floor that juts out of the cliffside, 280 m (918 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley below.
The Columbia Icefields Skywalk not only features the glass platform but also highlights waterfalls, local wildlife, fossils, and more on a 1-kilometre interpretive walkway. You even have the option of picking up a free listening device that will tell you all about the things you are seeing along the interpretive trail.
This attraction is family-friendly, and a great way to learn some information about the area. The glass floor, on the other hand, is not for the faint of heart!
The Glass Floor
The platform can be a little intimidating to walk on, whether or not you have a fear of heights! It does provide incredible opportunities for some jaw-dropping views, so definitely give it a try.
Just a heads up though, the platform does move and sway slightly, so keep that in mind!
The Columbia Icefields Skywalk is only available through a tour. Tickets must be purchased from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre (or online).
You will be bussed from the Discovery Center to the Skywalk at a pre-arranged time. Once you are finished at the site, the shuttle will return you back to the main building.
The return shuttles are on a first come first served basis, so keep that in mind if you are on a schedule.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 134 km
- Distance from Jasper: 97.3 km
Click here to book your own Columbia Icefields Skywalk adventure!
16. Tangle Creek Falls
Just down the Icefields Parkway from the Skywalk, is Tangle Creek. The waterfall is located on the right side of the road, while the small parking area is on the left.
The waterfall is not very grand, but it is very picturesque and definitely worth a quick stop! You can even climb up part of the way to get some awesome photos.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 135 km
- Distance from Jasper: 96 km
17. Sunwapta Falls
Sunwapta Falls is another easy stop on our Icefields Parkway itinerary. The turn-off is well marked, with plenty of parking available.
Sunwapta Falls consists of upper and lower falls. Both are fed by the Athabasca Glacier, so the water has the wonderful vibrant shades of blue you have probably come to expect in Alberta.
The upper falls are easily accessible, with only a quick walk from the parking area along a packed dirt walkway. The lower falls are significantly less busy but require a 1.3 km hike to get there.
Both falls are worth a look, whether you are visiting in the summer or the winter.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 177 km
- Distance from Jasper: 55.4 km
18. Goats & Glaciers Lookout
The Goats & Glaciers lookout is another quick stop along the Icefields Parkway that is pretty easy to miss. This viewpoint overlooks the Athabasca River and Mount Kerkeslin and features more gorgeous shades of blue water.
Also called ‘Goat-Lick Viewpoint,’ the area attracts mountain goat herds who come to lick the salt from the side of the river bank.
After the Goats and Glaciers sign, keep your eyes open for the pull-off on your left. There is a small lot with a short path that takes you to the lookout.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 194 km
- Distance from Jasper: 38 km
19. Athabasca Falls
One of the top items on our Icefields Parkway itinerary is Athabasca Falls. With plenty of parking, several short trails to hike, and a thunderous waterfall, this location is definitely a popular stop.
The .8 km out-and-back hiking trail to the waterfall is easy. You get to walk alongside the river, before crossing a bridge to the other side of the falls.
Here, you can take a stairway down to the gorge, or hike alongside the opposite riverbank. There are several viewing areas that get you pretty close to the 75-foot tall waterfall, giving you plenty of opportunities for epic photos!
Many of the walkways are fully accessible, although we did find many areas to be muddy, slippery, and flooded during our visit. You will also find that this stop is VERY crowded, even in the off-peak season.
Athabasca Falls is a main stop for the coach tours, so visiting early or later in the day is your best bet. And given that this is the second last stop on our itinerary, you may get lucky!
- Distance from Lake Louise: 201 km
- Distance from Jasper: 32.1 km
20. Valley of the Five Lakes
The Valley of the 5 Lakes is a scenic family-friendly hike that takes you in a loop past 5 different emerald-coloured lakes. This 4.5-kilometre-long hiking trail is easy and relatively flat, but very popular so expect crowds during the peak season.
The only downside to adding the Valley of the 5 Lakes hike to your Icefields Parkway itinerary, is that you may actually be running out of daylight by the time you reach the trailhead! Of course, this amazing trail is only a short 10-minute drive from Jasper, so you could always come back later to hike it.
- Distance from Lake Louise: 224 km
- Distance from Jasper: 9.9 km
Read more on the Valley of the Five Lakes Hike here.
Where Can You Stay on the Icefields Parkway?
As we mentioned previously, there are not a lot of options available for staying along the Icefields Parkway. But the accommodations that are available, tend to book up really quickly.
Camping
Camping is a great option for people who like to ‘rough it’ and want to sleep under the stars. Whether you are travelling in an RV or are planning on sleeping in a tent, the Icefields Parkway has a few great campsites available.
Most of the campsites along the Parkway operate on a first-come, first-served basis. You may want to double-check online, however, as some sites are now allowing people to make advanced reservations due to the increase in demand over the last couple of years.
During the summer months, campgrounds book up really quickly, especially on the long weekends. Try to arrive at the campgrounds before noon, for your best chance at finding a vacant campsite. If you aren’t lucky enough to find an available spot, there is also overflow camping at the Icefield Discovery Centre for trailers and camper vans.
Campsites
Banff National Park has a couple of campsites that are located off the Icefields Parkway. Rampart Creek and Upper Waterfowl Lakes are family-friendly and offer some pretty great hiking trails.
You can find a complete list of campgrounds in Banff National Park here.
Jasper National Park also has some pretty nice campgrounds available close to the Icefields Parkway. Again, these are first-come-first-served.
The Columbia Icefield Campground is tent-only with just 33 sites that are pretty secluded, perfect for those looking for a little more privacy. The Wilcox Creek Campground is larger with 46 sites, that can accommodate both tents as well as trailers up to 27 feet.
Both campgrounds are family-friendly with lots of trails to explore and beautiful views of the glacier-capped mountains.
You can find a complete list of campgrounds in Jasper National Park here.
Hostels
Hostels are a very budget-friendly option when looking for accommodations along the Icefields Parkway. And they can be a great choice for single travellers, as well as families looking for an overnight stay.
The hostels feature rustic wilderness settings, with amazing opportunities for wildlife sightings and hiking. They offer shared facilities and dormitory rooms with basic bunks, but some do not have electricity, and you will need to provide your own bedding.
Other hostels may offer a limited number of private rooms, including perks such as snowshoes in the winter, as well as proximity to some of the best attractions on the Parkway.
You will find several Hostels available in both Banff National Park and Jasper National Park that may work for your needs.
Hotels and Lodges
Simpson’s Num-Ti-Jah Lodge
Simpson’s Num-Ti-Jah Lodge sits right on the shores of Bow Lake and is considered one of the Canadian Rockies’ most picturesque locations. Not only do you have stunning lakeside and glacier views, but access to some of the nicest hiking trails, fishing opportunities, and photography in the area.
This picturesque lodge has 25 rustic rooms with shared or private washrooms. But just be warned, there are no phones or TVs in the rooms!
The restaurant has a large stone fireplace where you can enjoy a wonderful experience. The Num-Ti-Jah Lodge is open from May until the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend in October.
The Crossing Resort
Located at the Saskatchewan River Crossing, The Crossing Resort is a motel-style lodging that is available from March through to October. The Crossing Resort sits on a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is nestled at the base of Mt. Wilson.
The accommodations include 66 rooms, most with two double beds, a bathroom, satellite TV, and a telephone. There are also Family Suites, Executive Rooms, and pet-friendly rooms available.
As far as amenities go, The Crossing Resort has a spa, cafeteria, dining room, pub, gift shop, and service station.
The Glacier View Lodge
The Glacier View Lodge is located on the 3rd floor of the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre, approximately 1 hour south of Jasper and 2.5 hours north of Banff on the Icefields Parkway.
This Glacier View Lodge has 32 guest rooms each with a comfortable living room with satellite TV, telephone, sofa bed, and balcony or terrace. But the best part of staying here is waking up to the incredible views of the Athabasca Glacier and the Canadian Rockies!
As part of the Columbia Icefield Center, the Glacier View Lodge offers a gift shop, restaurant, cafeteria, and plenty of free parking. You are also right across the street from the Toe of the Glacier Trail which is convenient for the tours offered by the Discovery Centre.
The Glacier View Lodge is open from mid-April through to October.
Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge
The Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge offers cabin-style accommodation from May through to October. Located between the Columbia Icefields and Jasper townsite in Jasper National Park, the resort sits on the edge of a forest and is only a short walk to the Sunwapta Falls.
There are three types of suites available. The standard room consists of two double beds, a fridge, a private bathroom, and a sundeck. Pets are also allowed at the Rocky Mountain Lodge at an additional cost.
Amenities include a restaurant lounge with a fireplace, a cafeteria, and a gift shop. You can even pre-arrange for a picnic lunch to be made to take with you on your Icefields Parkway adventure!
Where Can You Eat on the Icefields Parkway?
On any Icefields Parkway itinerary, you will find all of your food options within the Hotels and Lodges we mentioned above. Food on the Icefields Parkway is generally overpriced, so you should definitely consider packing a lunch ahead of time for your day (or more) of adventure!
Canmore, Banff, and Jasper all have grocery stores where you can purchase everything you need at reasonable prices. Lake Louise Village also has a small convenience store where you will find some necessities.
The Crossing Resort
The Parkway Pub
The Parkway Pub is more of an experience than a grab-your-food-and-go kind of place. This is because every day at noon (between mid-June and mid-September) the Pub fires up their grill, and invites guests guest to show off their culinary skills and cook their own food!
Guests choose their entrée of steak, burger, or jumbo dog, which then arrives at their table fresh and on a platter with accompaniments. They then head to the grill where everyone is provided with a variety of seasonings and sauces to customize the flavour of their meal selection.
Staff are on hand to suggest cooking times, or to offer any assistance if needed.
Mt. Wilson Restaurant
The MT. Wilson Restaurant offers a casual dining experience and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The restaurant offers an all-you-can-eat lunch which includes a fresh salad bar and classic hot entrées.
For dinner, The Mt. Wilson Restaurant offers a full-service a la carte menu and bar, in addition to the extensive dinner buffet.
The Crossing Cafe
The Crossing Cafe offers a variety of menu options perfect for lunch or just a snack. You can find coffee, soups, sandwiches, or burgers. Box lunches and picnic fare can also be ordered in advance to take with you for a day of sightseeing on the Parkway.
The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre
Chalet
Chalet offers a casual family-friendly atmosphere that features freshly prepared food with grab-and-go service. This cafeteria-style restaurant offers snacks like chilli, pizza, burgers, and sandwiches. ($8-14). Both places can get mobbed with tour groups.
Altitude
Altitude restaurant provides incredible glacier views as the backdrop to your dining experience. They offer a buffet breakfast and lunch, as well as boasting a Canadian-inspired and locally sourced à la carte menu for dinner and cocktails.
Starbucks
Yes, you read that right! You can actually grab a cup of your favourite coffee concoction in the Discovery Centre! Perfect for warming up after a chilly excursion out on the Athabasca Glacier.
The Starbucks in the Discovery Centre is only a small kiosk, so they may not have all the items that a full location would. But it is definitely sufficient!
Keep in mind, that the Discovery Centre is a huge hub for tourists and tour busses! All three of these establishments tend to get quite busy during peak times!
Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge
The Restaurant at Sunwapta Falls
The Restaurant at Sunwapta Falls offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner in their rustic dining room. Not only do they offer awesome health-conscious and vegan dishes, but the food is fresh and delicious.
You can also request freshly made lunches to go anytime after 8 am! This is the perfect way to prepare for your day’s adventure, and exactly what we opted for.
During our trip along the Icefields Parkway, we chose a Roasted Yam Soup and a Butter Chicken with Rice Wrap. The food was ordered to go and took maybe 15 minutes for it to be ready.
The soups were very creamy, and the wraps were flavourful, filling, and absolutely delicious! We would definitely recommend a stop here if you find yourself in need of a quick bite!
What Wildlife Can You Spot on the Icefields Parkway?
The Icefields Parkway is filled with opportunities to spot wildlife! Black bears, grizzly bears, mountain goats, deer, caribou, mountain lions, big-horned sheep, moose, as well as hundreds of different birds, call the Parkway their home.
And the best times to enjoy the wildlife is either at dawn or dusk when they are most active. This is also the time when you need to be most vigilant when driving along the Parkway!
If you do see any wildlife, especially bears or elk along the road, be sure to give them plenty of space. And whatever you do, DO NOT attempt to feed them or get out of your vehicle for a closer look!
Not only is this incredibly dangerous, but it could also either land you with an eye-watering fine for feeding the animals, or get the animal killed as any bears that have contact with humans are put down.
Our most memorable moment was having to stop in the middle of the Icefields Parkway to allow a herd of elk to cross the road… at a CROSSWALK no less!! These majestic creatures were mesmerizing to watch!
Even though they caused quite a traffic jam, not one person could be heard complaining! Everyone just stopped and enjoyed the moment.
Final Thoughts on the Icefields Parkway Itinerary
Our Icefields Parkway itinerary is the perfect guide to help you traverse one of the most scenic roads in the world. With so many wonderful sights and things to experience, this bucket list item should be on everyone’s list when visiting Alberta.
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