The journey along the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. Winding roads lined by blue lakes and tall, snow covered mountains are just some of the reasons that hundreds of thousands of people take this drive each year! You might even spot a Grizzly Bear or some Deer!
In this blog post we are going to share with you every single spot you have to stop and explore between Banff and Jasper including the must see spots along the Icefields Parkway!
Let’s get started.
Highlights of the stops we will be covering:
Things to Know Before You Explore
The Icefields Parkway is a 181 Mile stretch of road that spans between Banff and Jasper. Here are some of our tips to consider before heading on your epic road trip!
- Fill up on gas in either Banff Town or in Lake Louise. There are very minimal gas stops along the Icefields Parkway.
- Pack Snacks. There are not very many stops for food along this drive so make sure to think ahead!
- Drive With Care. the Icefields Parkway is home to some incredible wildlife, so ensure you are keeping your eye out as you drive. Remember you are entering their home, so please be respectful.
- Check Weather Conditions. Due to the location, there can be some harsh weather along this drive, so make sure to check the road conditions and weather along the Icefields Parkway before heading out.
- There is minimal cell service in some areas. Make sure you download your Google Map or take a paper map with you!
Best Stops Along The Icefields Parkway
Johnston Canyon
Although this is not *technically* part of the Icefields Parkway, we have to include this gem on this list as you will pass it on your way from Banff!
Johnston Canyon is an easy and popular day hike and is accessible year round. The trail ranges from 1 km to 2.6 km one way if you decide to view both the Lower and Upper Falls.
The Canyon itself is accessed by going off of the designated trails (seen below) however due to the endangered bird the Black Swift inhabiting this area, it is now prohibited. You can read more about that here.
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake is one of the most popular stops between Banff and Jasper. This place is absolutely stunning. The lake is a color of blue that you only thought existed in your imagination, and the mountains that surround it create an incredible back drop. There are a variety of hikes that start at the base of the lake, and canoe rentals are available during the summer season.
Read more about Moraine Lake Photo Spots Here!
Lake Louise
This is by far the most popular tourist destination in Banff National Park and is one of the most photographed places in Canada. There is an assortment of hikes around the Lake, canoe rentals as well as the world famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. You can easily spend an entire day here!
Read more about Lake Louise Photo Spots Here!
Bow Lake
Bow Lake is one of the first stops along the Icefields Parkway and it will not disappoint! This bridge is one of the most photographed places at this stop and it is only a short walk from the parking lot. When the sky is clear, you will have insane views of the mountains surrounding this glacier fed lake!
Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake is an incredible lookout that is a must see stop along the Icefields Parkway. The lake is shaped like a wolf head! This lookout point is just a short 20 minute walk from the parking lot. This spot is a great place to watch the sunset!
Columbia Icefield + Skywalk
The Columbia Icefield is one of the main attractions along the Icefields Parkway. At this stop you can take a tour to the world famous Athabasca Glacier, purchase a ticket to walk along the Skywalk or visit the Discovery Center to shop at the gift shop and get a bite to eat!
Sunwapta Falls
Sunwapta Falls was one stop that nobody told us about when we asked what places we had to see along the Icefields Parkway. This incredible waterfall was one of our favorite stops on our road trip from Banff to Jasper! You need to stop here! The lookout points are just a short walk from the parking lot. Venture down one of the paths after crossing the bridge to get to this spot we photographed! You can walk right along the edge of the falls!
Athabasca Falls
This is a very popular stop along the Icefields Parkway. There are various trails that lead to lookouts of the Falls and the Canyon below. The lookout that we photographed below was further away from the falls! We accessed this spot from the road bridge above the falls.
Pyramid Lake
Pyramid Lake is a hidden gem in Jasper National Park. Located a short drive north of the Town of Jasper this is the last stop on our list! However, this place is not to be overlooked. This incredible bridge sits in the center of the lake and has the perfect backdrop of tall mountains and trees!
Pyramid Lake Resort is a beautiful complex offering accommodations, dining options and activities at the lake.
We also saw a lot of people bringing their own kayaks, paddle boards and canoes to explore the lake itself!
Looking For Hotels in Banff Or Jasper?
Final Thoughts
The Icefields Parkway is an incredible scenic drive that should be on everyone’s bucket-list when visiting Banff National Park! There are so many incredible stops offering views of tall mountains, glacier fed lakes as well as some incredible waterfalls! We cannot urge you enough to take the day and visit some of these incredible places!
Have you driven the Icefields Parkway? If so let us know in the comments below what your favorite stop way! Or if you haven’t, which one of these stops would you want to visit first?
Until Next Time, Happy Travels! 🙂
Kaylee + Jake
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