Ultimate Road Trip Guide: Exploring the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper 

Originally carved out in the 1930s and lovingly called the “Wonder Road,” the Icefields Parkway delivers non-stop views of jaw-dropping landscapes. You’ll drive past towering peaks, sprawling glaciers, and mirror-like lakes, with plenty of scenic stops along the way. Watch for interpretive signs, trailheads, and perfect picnic spots. Below is your guide to the best must-see stops along the Icefields Parkway, with distances marked from the Lake Louise junction. 

📍 STOP 1: Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint – 33.1 KM

Perched on the flank of Crowfoot Mountain, this glacier once resembled a three-toed crow’s foot. While one “toe” has since melted away, the view is still absolutely stunning. Visit in summer to see wildflowers blooming in the surrounding meadows. Across the highway is the Helen Lake Trail—a steep but rewarding hike through alpine terrain known for its floral displays and sweeping views. 

📍STOP 2: Bow Lake & Num-Ti-Jah Lodge – 35.9 KM

One of the largest lakes in Banff National Park, Bow Lake is a stunner with its turquoise water and rugged backdrop. From here, hike to Bow Glacier Falls (4.6 km one-way) for a refreshing mountain escape. Be sure to check out Num-Ti-Jah Lodge, a charming, rustic property built in the 1920s by legendary mountain guide Jimmy Simpson. 

📍STOP 3: Peyto Lake– 42.6 KM

One of the largest lakes, this Instagram-famous lake is shaped like a wolf’s head—yes, you read that right. Peyto Lake is one of the most photographed spots on the Icefields Parkway, and it’s easy to see why. From the viewpoint, the lake’s striking blue water pops against the surrounding alpine scenery. The hike up to the viewpoint is short but steep, so it’s totally worth the effort to snap that perfect shot of this jaw-dropping gem. 
(Peyto Lake is known for its shape and bright blue hues, making it one of the most Instagram-worthy spots along the Icefields Parkway.) 

📍STOP 4: Mistaya Canyon – 71.5 KM

Take a quick 300-metre walk to this hidden gem—a narrow limestone canyon shaped by years of rushing water. The swirling rock formations and thundering sound of the water make this a unique and peaceful stop. 

📍STOP 5: Parker Ridge Trail – 118 KM

Lace up your hikers for this short but steep 2.4 km trail leading to incredible views of the Saskatchewan Glacier. It’s one of the best bang-for-your-buck hikes in the Canadian Rockies, especially when wildflowers are in bloom and marmots are sunning themselves on the rocks. 

📍STOP 6: Columbia Icefield Centre & Glacier Skywalk – 126.6 KM

This is the crown jewel of the Parkway! At the Columbia Icefield Centre, you can explore jaw-dropping viewpoints or hop aboard an Ice Explorer—a giant vehicle built for glacier travel—and roll right onto the Athabasca Glacier. For the brave (and camera-ready), don’t miss the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored platform 918 feet above a glacial valley. Interpretive exhibits line the cliff-edge walkway, revealing secrets of the ancient landscape below. 

Not going all the way to Jasper? This is the ideal turnaround point. 

📍STOP 7: Sunwapta Falls – 133 KM

Just a short drive off the main highway, Sunwapta Falls packs a punch. Fed by the Sunwapta River, these powerful falls drop nearly 19 metres into a canyon below. The name “Sunwapta” comes from a Stoney Indigenous word meaning “turbulent water”—and once you see them, you’ll understand why. 

📍STOP 8: Athabasca Falls – 192 KM

These aren’t the tallest waterfalls in Jasper, but they’re definitely among the most powerful. Watch as the mighty Athabasca River thunders into a narrow gorge, carving dramatic shapes into the canyon walls. Safe and well-maintained paths make this a must-stop for photos and nature appreciation.  

🛏️ End Point: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge 

Wrap up your road trip with some lakeside luxury at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Nestled along the shores of Lac Beauvert, this iconic retreat offers cozy cabins, wildlife-watching opportunities, and world-class dining—all surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Jasper National Park. After a day on the road, there’s no better place to relax, recharge, and reflect on the journey. 

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

On the shores of Lac Beauvert sits the majestic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and its cabins. It is known for its renowned service, opulent but secluded setting, and mountainous adventures at every turn.

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