The Icefields Parkway is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful drives in the world. Stretching over 140 miles from Banff to Jasper, the parkway winds its way through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offering stunning views of glaciers, mountains, and pristine lakes. With so much natural beauty to see, it can be overwhelming to plan your stops. In this blog, we’ll explore 9 amazing stops on the Icefields Parkway that you won’t want to miss.
1. Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake is a glacier-fed lake located off the Icefields Parkway near Bow Summit. The lake is known for its stunning turquoise color and unique shape, which resembles a wolf’s head. To reach the lake, visitors must hike a short trail from the parking lot to the Peyto Lake viewpoint. From there, you can capture stunning photos of the lake and surrounding mountain scenery.
Top Tip: Arriving before sunrise to avoid crowds and witness a spectacular sunrise across the mountain tops.
2. Bow Lake
Bow Lake is another glacier-fed lake located off the Icefields Parkway. This stunning lake is surrounded by rugged mountains and is a popular spot for hiking, fishing, and canoeing. The Bow Lake viewpoint is easily accessible from the highway, making it a great stop for those short on time.
Top Tip: Bring a picnic lunch and take a leisurely stroll around the lake. Make sure to wear hiking boots especially if you’re planning to hike up to the waterfall.
3. Waterfowl Lakes
Waterfowl Lakes is a set of two small lakes located off the Icefields Parkway near the Bow Summit. The lakes are known for their crystal-clear waters and scenic mountain views. There are several picnic areas and hiking trails around the lakes, making it a great spot for a family outing.
Top Tip: You can great a great view of the lake from the viewpoint which is right next to the Icefields Parkway (perfect if you’re on the clock!)
4. Mistaya Canyon
Mistaya Canyon is a narrow, steep-walled gorge located off the Icefields Parkway near Saskatchewan Crossing. The canyon is carved out of the rock by the rushing waters of the Mistaya River and offers stunning views of the turquoise water below. There is a short trail that leads to the canyon viewpoint, making it a great stop for those short on time.
Top Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and keep a safe distance from the edge of the canyon.
5. Athabasca Glacier
Athabasca Glacier is one of the largest and most accessible glaciers in the Canadian Rockies. Visitors can take a guided tour onto the glacier, where they can explore crevasses and learn about glaciology. The glacier is located off the Icefields Parkway near the Columbia Icefield Centre.
Top Tip: Arrive early to beat the crowds, book your tour in advance and dress warm! It’s a glacier after all!
6. Sunwapta Falls
Sunwapta Falls is a powerful waterfall located off the Icefields Parkway near the Columbia Icefield Centre. The waterfall drops 60 feet into a deep canyon and offers stunning views of the rushing water below. There are several hiking trails around the falls, making it a great spot for a picnic lunch.
Top Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes and be mindful that you may get wet!
7. Athabasca Falls
Athabasca Falls is a powerful waterfall located off the Icefields Parkway near Jasper. The waterfall drops 80 feet into a deep canyon and offers stunning views of the rushing water below. There are several hiking trails around the falls, making it a great spot for a family outing.
Top Tip: Similar to Sunwapta Falls, there are several sections where you can get wet, so be mindful!
8. Goats and Glaciers Viewpoint
Goats & Glaciers Viewpoint is a popular spot located off the Icefields Parkway near Sunwapta Pass. The viewpoint offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers, as well as the opportunity to spot mountain goats and other wildlife. There is a short trail that leads to the viewpoint, making it a great stop for those short on time.
Top Tip: Bring binoculars to spot wildlife or a long camera lens.
9. Tangle Creek Falls
Tangle Creek Falls is a stunning waterfall located off the Icefields Parkway near the Tangle Falls Day Use Area. The waterfall drops over 100 feet and offers stunning views of the rushing water below. There is a short trail that leads to the waterfall viewpoint, making it a great stop for those short on time.
Top Tip: Wear sturdy hiking shoes if you’re planning to hike up the waterfall and be mindful that this waterfall is right on the icefields parkway, so be careful crossing to and from the falls.
Wrapping Up
the Icefields Parkway is a must-see destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. These 9 amazing stops offer a glimpse into the stunning natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Whether you have a day or a week to explore, be sure to add these stops to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
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