No visit to Banff National Park is complete without having traversed the Icefields Parkway. Dubbed one of the most beautiful roads in the world, the 230-kilometer (142.6 mi) long stretch of asphalt through the Rockies makes you ooh and aah all the time. Before heading out for this fantastic trip, read this post to know what to expect and look out for.
The road, officially Highway 93 North, connects Lake Louise with Jasper in Jasper National Park. Canada calls the road its most scenic route and it’s easy to understand why. It takes you along mountains, lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, forests, canyons and wildlife. There’s so much to see that you’ll feel like stopping again and again and again.
So even though you could drive the entire road in about 3 hours (without stopping), it’ll probably take you all day to reach Jasper. In fact, you could easily spend a couple of days along the way taking in all vistas this stunning road has to offer.
The Icefields Parkway Area
The Icefields Parkway runs from north to south, parallel to the Continental Divide. This mountain ridge runs from Alaska through Canada and all the way to Mexico. It’s situated on the eastern side of the Rocky Mountains, on the border with British Columbia and in the south of the province of Alberta. It runs through both Banff National Park and Jasper National Park.
Mountains along the Way
The Icefields Parkway is surrounded by numerous mountains. The ones that you can see from the road I listed below. I took Lake Louise as starting point. The mountains in the table are listed in the order you encounter them. I have distinguished between the mountains on the left side of the road and the right side.
LEFT SIDE OF THE ROAD
| Mountain Name | Icefield | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Daly | Waputik Icefield | 3,184 m (10,443 ft) |
| Mount Balfour | Waputik Icefield | 3,272 m (10,732 ft) |
| Bow Mountain | – | 2,868 m (9,407 ft) |
| Crowfoot Mountain | – | 3,050 m (10,004 ft) |
| Mount Thompson | Wapta Icefield | 3,065 m (10,053 ft) |
| Mount Peyto | Wapta Icefield | 2,970 m (9,741 ft) |
| Caldron Peak | – | 2,917 m (9,568 ft) |
| Mount Patterson | – | 3,197 m (10,486 ft) |
| Mount Aries | – | 2,996 m (9,826 ft) |
| Mount Howse | – | 3,290 m (10,791 ft) |
| Mount Chepren | – | 3,266 m (10,712 ft) |
| Mount Epaulette | – | 3,095 m (10152 ft) |
| Mount Kaufmann | – | 3,109 m (10,198 ft) |
| Mount Sarbach | – | 3,127 m (10,256 ft) |
| Mount Forbes | – | 3,612 m (11,847 ft) |
| Mount Erasmus | – | 3,265 m (10,709 ft) |
| Mount Lyell | – | 3,520 m (11,545 ft) |
| Mount Amery | – | 3,329 m (10,919 ft) |
| Mount Saskatchewan | – | 3,344 m (10,968 ft) |
| Mountain Name | Icefield | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Athabasca | Columbia Icefield | 3,493 m (11,457 ft) |
| Mount Snowdome | Columbia Icefield | 3,459 m (11,345 ft) |
| Mount Columbia* | Columbia Icefield | 3,747 m (12,290 ft) |
| Mount Kitchener | Columbia Icefield | 3,505 m (11,496 ft) |
| South Twin Peak | Columbia Icefield | 3,566 m (11,696 ft) |
| North Twin Peak | Columbia Icefield | 3,733 m (12,244 ft) |
| Mount Stutfield | – | 3,453 m (11,325 ft) |
| Mount Alberta | – | 3,622 m (11,880 ft) |
| Mount Wooley | – | 3,405 m (11,168 ft) |
| Mount Mushroom | – | 3,622 m (11,880 ft) |
| Mount Gec | – | 3,130 m (10,266 ft) |
| Mount Nelson | – | 3,150 m (10,332 ft) |
| Mount Gong | – | 3,121 m (10,236 ft) |
| Mount Brussels | – | 3,160 m (10,364 ft) |
| Mount Christie | – | 3,102 m (10,175 ft) |
| Mount Fryatt | – | 3,360 m (11,020 ft) |
| Mount Edith Cavell | – | 3,367 m (11,043 ft) |
| Mount Aquila | – | 2,880 m (9,446 ft) |
| Whistlers Moutain | – | 2,469 m (8,098 ft) |
* = Highest mountain
RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROAD
| Mountain Name | Icefield | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Hector* | – | 3,394 m (11,132 ft) |
| Mount Molar | – | 3,002 m (9,847 ft) |
| Mount Dolomite | – | 2,782 m (9,125 ft) |
| Mount Cirque | – | 2,993 m (9,817 ft) |
| Mount Observation | – | 3,174 m (10,411 ft) |
| Mount Weed | – | 3,080 m (10,102 ft) |
| Mount Noyes | – | 3,084 m (10,116 ft) |
| Mount Totem | – | 3,155 m (10,348 ft) |
| Mount Murchison | – | 3,333 m (10,932 ft) |
| Mount Wilson | – | 3,261 m (10,696 ft) |
| Mount Coleman | – | 3,135 m (10,282 ft) |
| Mountain Name | Icefield | Height |
|---|---|---|
| Mount Cirrus | – | 3,270 m (10,726 ft) |
| Sunwapta Mountain | – | 3,317 m (10,880 ft) |
| Poboktan Mountain | – | 3,320 m (10,890 ft) |
| Mount Brazeau | Brazeau Icefield | 3,225 m (10,578 ft) |
| Monkhead | Brazeau Icefield | 3,211 m (10,532 ft) |
| Maligne Mountain | – | 3,200 m (10,496 ft) |
| Mount Charlton | – | 3,260 m (10,693 ft) |
| Mount Unwin | – | 3,300 m (10,824 ft) |
| Mount Samson | – | 3,076 m (10,089 ft) |
| Mount Curator | – | 2,624 m (8,607 ft) |
| Mount Tekarra | – | 2,693 m (8,833 ft) |
* = Highest Mountain
Rivers along the Way
The Icefields Parkway area is home to several smaller and bigger rivers and creeks. The two biggest and most well-known ones are the Bow River and the Athabasca River. The Bow River springs from Bow Lake and runs through Banff and Calgary until it meets the Oldman River in the southeast of Alberta. There the two rivers form the Saskatchewan River.
At the Saskatchewan River Crossing, there’s the confluence of the North Saskatchewan, Howse and Mistaya rivers. The latter you’ll also see at the Mistaya Canyon, cutting its way through the landscape.
Further down the road you’ll pass the Athabasca River, which originates from a lake at the toe of the Columbia Glacier, part of the Columbia Icefield in Jasper National Park. It flows 1231 kilometers before emptying in Lake Athabasca in the north of the Saskatchewan province.
History of the Icefields Parkway
The construction of the Icefields Parkway started in September 1931 to connect Lake Louise to Jasper. A Jasper-based engineering crew began working on the road, just south of town, at the confluence of the Whirlpool and Athabasca Rivers.
Hands and horsepower
In four months they reached the Sunwapta Falls, using their own hands and horsepower. Soon after, more difficult terrain posed challenges, and modern machinery had to be deployed. It took almost ten years to cover the 230-kilometer (142,6 mi) distance between Jasper and Lake Louise and in 1940, the gravel/dirt road was finally completed.
Six hundred men had worked on the road construction with only one tractor per crew. At its widest point, the road was about 5.5 meters (18 feet) wide and cars often had to pull over or back up to let an oncoming car pass.
Paved and realigned
Due to the Second World War, celebrations for the road’s completion were canceled and it opened to little fanfare. Until 1960 the road – dubbed the Banff-Jasper Highway – was closed during the winter. Around that time, the road was paved and realigned and in 1961, the fully paved highway officially opened.
In 1974 the name was changed to Icefields Parkway. Nowadays, the highway attracts about 1.2 million visitors annually, mainly during summer.
How to Travel the Icefields Parkway?
There are several ways to travel the Icefields Parkway. The most obvious one is by car. But taking a bus, taking a private transfer and riding a bike are all possible as well. Below you’ll find s short description of each option.
By Car
Driving the Icefields Parkway is the way to go if you ask me. It allows for the much-needed flexibility that driving this road requires, because you can stop where and when you want. And spend as much time as you wish. If you don’t have a car because you are flying into Alberta, you can easily get a rental car at the airport.
By Private Transfer
If you want to leave the driving to someone else and your budget allows, taking a private transfer could be a very pleasing way to go. You’ll be able to stop at all highlights along the road while the driver provides you insights about the highlights.
You’ll be going at your own pace, so you’ll have the time to take in the scenery, do a short hike, eat somewhere, et cetera. Usually, a private transfer includes a pickup at your hotel.
Sundog Tours
Address: 414 Connaught Drive, Jasper
Phone: +1 780 – 852 4056
Website: sundogtours.com
E-mail: info@sundogtours.com
By Bus
Yes, you can take a bus to Jasper or Lake Louise over the Icefields Parkway. It’s a cheap way to cover the distance. Still, as with regular liner services, you don’t get to stop along the way, which you absolutely want to do on the Icefields Parkway. Probably a couple of dozen times.
Sundog Tours
Address: 414 Connaught Drive, Jasper
Phone: +1 780 – 852 4056
Website: sundogtours.com
E-mail: info@sundogtours.com
Brewster Express (Part of Pursuit Collection)
Phone: +1 877 625 4372
Website: banffjaspercollection.com
E-mail: Through form on the website
By Taking a Tour
If you want to leave the driving to someone else and don’t mind spending your time on the Icefields Parkway among a group of tourists, then a tour might be for you. By stopping at all the highlights along the way, you’ll get a good impression of this road’s stunning beauty. And maybe have pleasant chitchat with other tourists from all kinds of countries.
I can recommend the Lake Louise to Jasper One-Way Tour.
By Riding a Bike
Yes, riding a bike on the Icefields Parkway is possible. This is not for the faint of heart, as you’ll need to use the road’s shoulders, which means cars will constantly pass you at close range. You’d also need to be in excellent shape as the road is quite undulating.
On top of that, you’ll probably want to bring along a tent as you’ll not be able to cycle the entire road in one day. So spending at least one night at one of the six campgrounds along the way is an inevitable part of the journey. Of course you can also stay in a hotel or hostel.
If you want to know more about cycling this mesmerizing road, read the post Journey of a Lifetime: Bike the Icefields Parkway.
Do You Need a National Park Pass to Drive the Icefields Parkway?
Yes, you do. As the Icefield Parkway connects two national parks, you need a National Park Pass. You can purchase one at either the Banff or Jasper National Park entrance. You can buy a Day Pass or a Discovery Pass, valid for 12 months.
Day Pass
Adults: CAD 10 (18 through 64 years old)
Seniors: CAD 8.40 (65 years and older)
Family/Groups: CAD 20 (up to and including 7 people in one vehicle)
Commercial group, per person: CAD 8.40
Children up to and including 17 years old have free admission.
Discovery Pass
Adults: CAD 69.19 (18 to 64 years of age)
Seniors: CAD 59.17 (65 years and older)
Family/Groups: CAD 139.40 (up to and including 7 people in one vehicle)
Children up to and including 17 years old have free admission.
You will earn back the investment in a Discovery Pass if you spend at least seven days in one year in one of the member national parks.
Note: All prices include VAT.
If you want to know more about park passes, I advise you to read the post 20 Things You Need to Know About Park Passes for Banff National Park.
Is the Icefields Parkway a Toll Road?
The Icefields is not a toll road; you won’t find any toll booths at the beginning and end of the road. So as long as you have a park pass (see above), you’re free to drive the road as often as you want.
Are RVs allowed on the Icefields Parkway?
Yes, they are. Even huge RVs won’t experience much trouble driving the Icefields Park. The road is remarkably easy to drive on and relatively wide with, in most cases, adequately sized parking lots near viewpoints and other attractions along the way.
The only tricky parts are a few switchbacks with steep gradients, but this shouldn’t pose a problem if you take it easy. Just remember that countless large RVs have gone there before you.
Speed Limit at the Icefields Parkway
The speed limit at the Icefields Parkway is 90 km/u (55 mph). There are two exceptions. The speed limit is 70 km/u (43 mph) at the Saskatchewan River Crossing and the Columbia Icefield.
What Is the Roadway Like?
The Icefields Parkway consists of two driving lanes, one in each direction. It has shoulders on both sides and the road’s surface, maintained by Parks Canada, is very good. It’s surprising how easy the road is to drive, considering that you’re in a very rugged area. There are only a few tricky twists and turns with steep gradients. Still, even RVs have no problems driving here.
Are There any Gas Stations along the Way?
Yes, there is one at the Saskatchewan River Crossing. Because it’s the only one along the route, expect gas prices to be high. Therefore I’d recommend you fill up before you start driving. Also note that the gas station at the Saskatchewan River Crossing is closed from November through April, making filling up beforehand essential.
Should I Drive the Icefields Parkway in Both Directions?
The answer to this question is: yes! The scenery is different in both directions, and you’ll have a whole new perspective on the stunning scenery coming back the other way. Maybe you missed something the first time, or you just didn’t have enough time to stop at a particular spot.
You can make the return trip in one day, but this means that you don’t have a lot of time to get out of the car to visit a lake or take a short stroll. I’d recommend you spend the night in Jasper before driving back. Or stay there for a week if you want. Jasper National Park is just as beautiful as Banff, so there are many things to do and see.
Best Time to Drive the Icefields Parkway
This question is a bit difficult to answer. It depends on your preferences. If you want to experience nature in full glory, you’d like to drive the road in July or August. All ice and snow have melted during these months, allowing the lakes to be at their most beautiful. And, of course, the weather is the best at this time of the year.
The disadvantage of driving the Icefields Parkway in summer is that the road can be bustling. You’ll find lots of people at the highlights along the road. Not only does it make for more dangerous situations, you’re also less likely to see wildlife.
If you visit the road in, let’s say, June or September, it’s less crowded and you’re more likely to spot wildlife. Moreover, the weather is still good enough to enjoy a comfortable and mesmerizing trip.
Yes, you can also drive the Icefields Parkway in winter, making for a whole different experience altogether. And it’s probably just as beautiful. The weather just isn’t very comfortable, to put it mildly. Please note that you need snow chains on your tires (from 1 November until 31 March).
Driving the Icefields Parkway in the two shoulder seasons (End of March until June and Mid-September until Mid-December) is probably not the best time. Lakes are already frozen or freezing over, which just doesn’t look as beautiful as when the lakes are fully thawed. On the other hand, there aren’t too many tourists on the road at this time of the year, and the Icefields Parkway is utterly gorgeous all year.
When to Drive on a Single-Day Trip
I would recommend beginning at dawn. Let’s say around 5.30 – 6 am in summer. You’ll most likely to encounter wildlife as the road will not be busy. Sure, the temperature can be a bit chilly as you’re in the mountains. Just take a jacket and you should be fine.
Another obvious advantage of beginning your drive early in the morning is that you’ll have much more time to spend on the highlights. I’ve driven the road four or five times and in general, I think you could do it in 6 to 8 hours without feeling you’re rushing things.
Cellphone Reception on the Icefields Parkway
Cellphone reception on the Icefields Parkway is not dependable. In some places it’s great; in others it’s spotty and there are sections where you’ll have no reception for kilometers. Usually, you can expect reception in urbanized areas along the way, like the Saskatchewan River Crossing, the Columbia Icefield and a hotel.
I advise downloading a road map on your phone or take a physical map with you. You can get one free in Lake Louise and Jasper in the Lake Louise and Jasper visitor centres and most hotels. This way, you can easily track where you are as the signs on the road can sometimes be a bit overwhelming as there’s so much to see!
Places to Stay along the Way
If you want to take your time to discover the beauty surrounding the Icefields Parkway, you have several lodging options. It allows you to do some hiking in the area and spend more time at the many highlights the road has to offer.
Below, I included a table, listing all hotels along the way and some of their amenities, conveniently ordered. The accommodations are listed in order. Again, I took Lake Louise as the starting point.
| HOTEL NAME | SCORE | STARS | TYPE | FP | FB | AC | HT | SP | FN | WA | PF |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HI Mosquito Creek Hostel | – | * | Hostel | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | – | ✗ |
| Num-Ti-Jah Lodge | 4.3 | *** | Hotel | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Crossing Resort | 3.7 | ** | Hotel | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| HI Rampart Creek Hostel | – | * | Hostel | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | – | ✗ |
| Glacier View Lodge | Hotel | ||||||||||
| HI Beauty Creek Wilderness Hostel | Hostel | ||||||||||
| Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge | Hotel | ||||||||||
| HI Athabasca Falls Wilderness Hostel | Hostel | ||||||||||
| Becker’s Chalets | Hotel | ||||||||||
| Jasper House Bungalows | Hotel |
Abbreviations:
FP = Free Parking
FB = Free Breakfast
AC = Air Conditioning
HT = Hot Tub
SP = Swimming Pool
FN = Fitness
WA = Wheelchair accessible
PA = Pets Allowed
– = No Data
* = On Request
Camping near the Icefields Parkway
If you’re an avid camper who wants to spend the night in the wilderness, the Icefields Parkway is your dream destination. There are six frontcountry campgrounds with good facilities along the way, and they are easily accessible from the road.
Because the Icefields Parkway is so long and scenic, you could easily camp out along the way for a week (or two) and enjoy the stunning nature and vistas from numerous outstanding locations. Just make sure you take enough groceries with you because there are no supermarkets along the way.
The only place you can buy food is at the Crossing Resort’s General Store at the Saskatchewan River Crossing. Though this is not a fully-fledged supermarket
1. Mosquito Creek Campground
This campground is more remote, but its proximity to the Icefields Parkway makes it easily accessible. In addition, Lake Louise Village at 28 km (17.28 mi) is not too far away if you need to run an errand.
While the smallest’ front-country campground’ in Banff National Park, Mosquito Creek Campground is ideal if you want to camp in peace. The vast crowds of Lake Louise feel very far away here. The views of snow-capped peaks and the gentle roar of the nearby Bow River make this campground ideal for anyone who wants to enjoy nature without the hordes of tourists for which Banff National Park is known.
Mosquito Creek Campground, Overview
Address: Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), Improvement District No. 9
Phone: +1 403 – 522 3833
Overnight stay: upon availability
Number of sites: 32
Facilities: drinking water, picnic tables, dry toilets (no flushing facilities), communal kitchen, fire pits
Kind of accommodations: RVs and tents
Price: CAD 17.99
Period: 3 June – 11 October
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 28.4 km (17.61 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 205 km (127.1 mi)
2. Rampart Creek Campground
This campground provides a fantastic view of the Rockies all around you as well. The idyll is assured with the Bow River in the ‘backyard’ of the campground.
This campground on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 N) is the most remote of the easily accessible campgrounds in Banff National Park. To give you an idea: Lake Louise’s nearest settlement is 91 km (56.17 mi) to the south. Jasper is 141 km (87 mi) to the north.
Bears are seen in the vicinity of this campground with some regularity.
Rampart Creek Campground, Overview
Address: Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), T1L 1K2
Phone: +1 403 – 762 1550
Overnight stay: based on availability, reservations possible
Number of sites: 51
Facilities: drinking water, dry toilets (no flushing), picnic tables, fire pits, and garbage cans
Kind of accommodations: RVs and tents
Price: CAD 17.99
Period: 10 June – 30 September
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 93.2 km (57.78 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 141 km (87.42 mi)
3. Silverhorn Creek Campground
Also located on the Icefields Parkway is Silverhorn Creek Campground. With only 45 spaces, it is one of the smallest front-country campgrounds in Banff National Park, but one where you would like to camp for a night (or two) because of the view.
The campground is located about 400 meters (437 yards) from Mistaya Lake, and from here, you can do several nice hikes. The campground has room for twenty meters (70 feet) long campers. Unfortunately, there is no room for tents.
Good to know: the famous and improbably beautiful Peyto Lake is only ten kilometers (6.17 mi) to the south.
Silverhorn Creek Campground, Overview
Address: Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), Improvement District No. 9
Phone: +1 780 – 932 6868
Overnight stay: based on availability
Number of sites: 45
Facilities: picnic tables, hand water pump, dry toilets (no flushing), and trash cans
Kind of accommodations: RVs, not tents
Price: CAD 16.05
Period: 3 June – 12 September
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 54.1 km, (33.54 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 178 km (110.36 mi)
4. Waterfowl Lakes Campground
Sandwiched between the two Waterfowl Lakes, the northernmost campground in Banff National Park, you can easily reach by car or RV. This campground is also located on the Icefields Parkway, 20 km (12.35 mi) from the border with Jasper National Park.
You quickly feel that you’re in the middle of the wilderness at this campground. The views are nothing short of breathtaking. The campgrounds are close to the two lakes and the river that connects both lakes. There are many possibilities for hiking, so you won’t get bored here.
Waterfowl Lakes Campground, Overview
Address: Icefields Parkway, Improvement District No. 9, AB, Canada
Phone: +1 403 – 522 3833
Overnight stay: upon availability, reservations are possible
Number of sites: 116
Facilities: water taps, flush toilets, cooking quarters, food storage lockers, waste bins, and sani dump
Kind of accommodations: RVs and tents
Price: CAD 21.97
Period: 24 June – 12 September
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 61.3 km (38 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 172 km (106.64 mi)
5. Wapiti Campground
Located on the Athabasca River near the Icefields Parkway, the Wapiti Campground is only 4.8 km (2.98 mi) away from Jasper. This large campground offers a beautiful camping location along the Icefields Parkway.
Dead and sick trees were removed, and some facilities were updated in 2021. Though one thing that’s not fixed is the potholes in the campground’s road, which can make it a hassle to drive your RV to your site.
Wapiti Campground, Overview
Address: AB-93A, Jasper
Phone: +1 780 – 852 6176
Overnight stay: upon availability, reservations are possible
Number of sites: 363
Facilities: electricity, hot showers, fire pits, kitchen shelter, recycling depot, food lockers and dumping station
Kind of accommodations: tents and RVs
Price: Electrical, with fire pit: $43.75 / Electrical: CAD 34.50 / Unserviced, with fire pit: CAD 38.50
Period: 4 May – 10 October
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 228 km (141.36 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 6.3 km (3.90 mi)
6. Honeymoon Lake Campground
Distance from Jasper: 52 km (32 mi)
6. Whistlers Campground
With a whopping amount of 781 sites, this campground is vast. It was refurbished in 2021 with new and updated facilities, and dead and sick trees were removed and replaced by saplings. As a result, the RV section is a piece of concrete that doesn’t provide much privacy.
The campground doesn’t look very pleasing, as it lacks bushes and trees. Hopefully, that’ll change in the coming years. On the plus side: You’re close to Jasper (only 4.2 km / 2.60 mi away) and still surrounded by wilderness, enhancing your camping experience.
Whistlers Campground, Overview
Address: 67 19, Jasper
Phone: +1 877 – 737 3783
Overnight stay: upon availability, reservations are possible
Number of sites: 781
Facilities: toilets, showers, picnic tables, fire pits, electricity, kitchen shelter, recycling depot and dumping station
Kind of accommodations: tents and RVs
Price: Full hookup, with fire pit: CAD 50.00 / Full hookup: CAD 40.75 /Electrical, with fire pit: CAD 43.75 / Unserviced, with fire pit: CAD 38.50 / Unserviced: CAD29.25 / Walk-in (no vehicles): CAD 24
Period: 4 May – 10 October
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 231 km (143.22 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 4.2 km (2.60 mi)
If you want to read more about camping in Banff National Park, I’d recommend you read the post The Ultimate Overview of Campgrounds in Banff National Park
Eating and Drinking along the Way
Although the Icefields Parkway leads you through the wilderness of the Canadian Rockies, there are several places where you can eat and drink along the way.
Elkhorn Dining Room
This restaurant is situated inside the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge at Bow Lake. Its interior is in log cabin style, making for an authentic frontier atmosphere, enhanced by the views from the windows. The restaurant oozes history. Like all restaurants along the Icefields Parkway, prices are pretty high, but the setting of the Elkhorn Dining Room makes up for this as it is simply extraordinary.
Phone: +1 403 – 522 2167
Website: –
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 40.6 km (33.55 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 194 km (120.28 mi)
The Crossing Resort
This place can be chock-a-block with bus tour tourists in the summer months. At least you have some choice here to sit down and eat and drink something. There’s a café, a pub and a restaurant. Because of the remote location of the place, the food and drinks are pretty expensive.
Phone: +1 403 – 761 7000
Website: thecrossingresort.com
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 80.4 km (49.84 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 153 km (94.86 mi)
The Crossing Café
Looking for a quick breakfast or lunch? The Crossing Café will suffice. Don’t expect anything fancy, but their menu offers enough variety to satisfy most people who need a quick bite. In the summer months it can be crowded here.
Phone: +1 403 – 761 7000
Website: thecrossingresort.com
The Parkway Pub
This pub is part of the Crossing Resort Facilities. It’s a nice place to have a pint or another drink and relax from the driving you’ve done so far. From the pub’s deck, you’re guaranteed some stunning sights. The Parkway Pub also offers simple food and there’s also a pool table.
Phone: +1 403 – 761 7000
Website: thecrossingresort.com
Mt Wilson Restaurant
If you want more than a snack or a quick bite at the Crossing Resort, Mt Wilson provides. While this neat little place doesn’t have a very extensive menu, the food served is excellent and will definitely fill you up. Try their steaks, spare ribs or hamburgers; you won’t be disappointed.
Phone: +1 403 – 761 7000
Website: thecrossingresort.com
The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre
The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre has two restaurants, Altitude and Chalet. The setting is extraordinary, which is cool, but as it is located at the absolute highlight of the Icefields Parkway, things won’t get busier than this place. I’m talking about crazy busy in the high season.
Phone: +1 866 – 506 0515
Website: banffjaspercollection.com
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 130 km (80.6 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 104 km (64.48 mi)
Altitude
This restaurant means enjoying dinner with one of the most impressive views you’ve ever seen. Guaranteed. But you’d better make a reservation if you want to ensure you’ll have a window seat so you can enjoy the view in the best way possible. Prices ain’t cheap here, but the location and the food easily make up for this.
Phone: +1 866 – 506 0515
Website: banffjaspercollection.com
Chalet
Desire more simple food while visiting the Columbia Icefield? Check out Chalet at the Columbia Icefield. This place also offers more ‘simple’ food like burgers and pizza. Also comes with stunning views, which makes eating here quite special. Grab and Go Service included.
Phone: +1 866 – 506 0515
Website: banffjaspercollection.com
The Restaurant at Sunwapta Falls
Fancy eating in a cozy place in the middle of the wilderness and still easily reachable by car? Then the Restaurant at Sunwapta Falls is right for you. This establishment is known for offering good food and excellent service. You can go there for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Phone: +1 780 – 852 4852
Website: sunwapta.com
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 178 km (110.36 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 55.2 km (34.22 mi)
Icefields Parkway Highlights
The Icefields Parkway has numerous attractions that justify stopping to take in all the beauty. However, it would go too far to list them all here. I’ve highlighted the most prominent and popular stops along the way below, which is still quite extensive.
Assuming you’re staying in Banff National Park, you’d start your journey on the Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise.
1. Herbert Lake
Herbert Lake is the first lake on the Icefields Parkway, on your left-hand side. It’s a pretty, small lake hidden from the road by a dense forest. There’s a day-use area where you can park your car. You’ll have to walk a little down from the parking lot to get to the lake. It’s typically not very busy here, enhancing the lake’s serene setting.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 7.4 km (4.59 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 226 km (140 mi)
2. Hector Lake
Next on your way to Jasper is Hector Lake. It’s a small glacial lake and part of the Bow River trajectory. It’s situated a bit further away from the Icefields Parkway, but there’s a viewpoint next to the road, allowing for fantastic views over the lake and the surrounding mountains. And yes, you can safely park your car here.
You’ll need to hike there if you want to reach the lakeshore. But don’t worry, it’s not a very long and a relatively easy hike. A roundtrip is 4.5 km (2.8 mi) and takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete. Please note that there’s a river ford down the trail. It shouldn’t be too tricky, but make sure you bring a pair of dry socks and extra shoes with you.
The trail itself is open year-round but it can be a bit muddy at times. Because most tourists don’t want to put efforts to reach the lake, it’s usually tranquil around here, allowing you to take in the lake’s beauty in silence.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 22.9 km (13.64 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 211 km (131 mi)
3. Bow Lake
The lake is one of the largest in the park and is fed by the Sunwapta Ice Field’s Bow Glacier meltwater. Bow Lake, with a total area of 3.21 km2 (1.24 sq mi), is the closest lake to the Bow River’s headwaters. There’s a car park right at the lake and you only need to scramble down a few meters to get to the water.
Bow Lake’s water has a stunning green-blue color, as is the case with all glacial lakes in Banff National Park. When you stand at the lakeshore, it’s probably the first thing you notice.
The lake attracts most visitors during the summer, although it’s also a beautiful place to visit in winter. During those months, the area is open for snowshoeing and ski touring.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 38.7 km (24 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 195 km (121 mi)
4. Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake is the most famous lake along the Icefields Parkway, making it one of the busiest stops en route. As a result, there will be many people on the viewing platform. Arrive before 8 am or later in the evening if you want to appreciate the lake’s vista in solitude. Once you’ve arrived at the viewing platform, you can also walk the path to the less-frequented second viewing point. A view from a higher clearing (without a platform) is at least as nice.
Peyto Lake is located 100 kilometers (62 miles) north of Banff and 44 kilometers (27 miles) north of Lake Louise Village on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 N). It’s easy to get to by car, and two parking lots are on site.The second is higher up and only accessible to buses, older people and people with disabilities.
The Canadian government just committed CAD 2,900,000 to make the lake more accessible. An increase in the number of parking places is part of this plan.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 45.5 km (28,21 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 188 km (116.56 mi)
5. Mistaya Canyon
One of the absolute highlights on the Icefields Parkway. Mistaya Canyon is a scenic gem. This slot canyon had distinctive curvy walls sculpted by the Mistaya River, rushing through at high speed. And then there’s also the stunning landscape upstream with Mount Sarbach on the horizon, simply mesmerizing. It’s like a painting of a dream landscape, but in this case it’s real and authentic.
As with most highlights along the Icefields Parkway, Mistaya Canyon is easy to reach. There’s a long stretch of gravel where you can park your car, right along the highway. You need to walk a 500-meter (546 yds) rocky path with tree roots (not stroller friendly) to the bridge over the canyon from the car park.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 76.2 km (47.24 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 157 km (97.34 mi)
6. Saskatchewan River Crossing
You’ll find the Saskatchewan River Crossing at the intersection of the Icefields Parkway and the David Thompson Highway. This is the location of the confluence of the North Saskatchewan, Howse and Mistaya rivers.
When travelers and fur traders crossed the North Saskatchewan River on their journey to British Columbia in the 19th century, it was dubbed ‘The Crossing’. Nowadays you can spend the night here, eat and drink in one of the three hospitality places and fill up your car. Please note that The Crossing is closed for winter.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 80.4 km (49.84 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 153 km (94.86 mi)
7. Big Hill & Big Bend
This is the steepest part of your drive (Big Hill), leading to a hairpin (Big Bend). The Big Hill & Big Bend offers spectacular views from above, allowing you to see the road you just drove, winding across the valley floor into the distance.
A viewpoint on the right side of the road allows you to park your car on a piece of gravel close to the edge. It’s situated in a blind corner so take it easy when pulling in and out.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 116 km (71.92 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 118 km (73.16 mi)
8. Parker Ridge
The Parker Ridge stop allows you to hike up the Parker Ridge Trail. It’s 6.4 km (3.97 mi) long and requires moderate effort to unlock some stunning views of the Saskatchewan Glacier, the largest of the six glaciers in the Columbia Icefields area.
You can park your car at the parking place along the Icefields Parkway. The trailhead is right there. A round trip takes about 2.5 hours. It’s a very popular hike, so expect some people on the trail. It’s open year-round and can be used for snowshoeing in winter.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 121 km (75 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 113 km (70 mi)
9. Columbia Icefield
By far the most touristic and arguably most famous stop along the Icefields Parkway. This is tourism in the Rockies at its peak. You can hop on a snow coach here to drive onto the Athabasca Glacier for some unique views.
Be ready to pony up quite a bit of cash for this trip (around CAD 100 per person). The tour takes about 1.5 hours and you’ll also be allowed to leave the vehicle and step onto the glacier. For this amount of money, the excursion feels a bit like a tourist trap, but on the other hand, the experience is unique for sure.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 130 km (80.6 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 104 km (64.48 mi)
Toe of the Glacier
If you don’t want to shell out about CAD 100 for a ride onto the Athabasca Glacier, you can also do a short hike to the toe of the glacier. It’s a pretty easy hike and not far at all. You can park your car on the left side of the road (coming from the direction of Lake Louise), close to the trailhead.
Make sure you dress warmly because it can be VERY windy here. And because you’re high up in the mountains, it won’t be nice and warm, even in summer. Along the path, you’ll see several signs indicating the glacier’s toe in a particular year. Due to global warming, the glacier has – disturbingly enough – retreated significantly in the last century or so.
Glacier Skywalk
Another activity at the Columbia Icefield is a walk on the Glacier Skywalk. It’s a horseshoe-shaped glass bridge suspended above the valley. It allows for stunning views, but for some, it can be a scary experience, as you’re walking on a glass floor, high above the valley.
To be honest, the Skywalk is mainly about the experience of walking on a glass floor above a great depth. And paying an admission of CAD 34.66 for this is very much, if you ask me. Mainly because you would see the same sights in other nearby roadside viewpoints.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 136 km (84.32 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 97.7 km (60.75 mi)
10. Tangle Creek Falls
Tangle Creek Falls is an impressive waterfall right along the Icefields Parkway. The waterfall features a 35-meter (115 ft) plunge broken into several tiers and each tier splits into several smaller streams. You can park your car right at the fall’s location, making for a convenient spot to take pictures.
Turn around and you’ll have a fabulous view of the valley below. For the more adventurous travelers: You could climb alongside the waterfall to reach the top if you like a scramble. In winter, the frozen falls are an equally impressive sight.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 137 km (84.94 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 96.5 km (59.83 mi)
11. Sunwapta Falls
The Sunwapta Falls are a pair of waterfalls and a major highlight on your trip. This obviously means many tourists in the summer months, but you should by no means skip it. The falls provide a fantastic view down the Athabasca River, which originates from the Athabasca Glacier, and the mountains in the distance.
The Sunwapta Falls are very easy to reach. It’s a short stroll to the upper falls from the sizeable parking lot near the Icefields Parkway. Getting to the lower falls takes a bit of a hike, but it’s well worth the (minimal) effort. Visit Sunwapta Falls in late spring or early summer to see the water levels at their peak.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 179 km (111 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 55.8 km (34.6 mi)
12. Athabasca Falls
Not far after you’ve visited the Sunwapta Falls, you’ll come across the Athabasca Falls. Yet another marvel of nature, these falls, fed by the Athabasca River, are probably just as impressive as the Sunwapta Falls.
The falls provide an impressive sight, but there’s more to see. If you head in the opposite direction, you can walk down a canyon that the Athabasca River abandoned centuries ago. It makes for a pleasant and leisurely stroll. Inside the abandoned canyon there are some convenient manmade steps, leading you to the Athabasca Riverbank. There’s a very rocky beach there, making for a nice place to spend some time and look along the river into the distance.
The Athabasca falls are easy to reach as there’s a big parking lot close to the Icefields Parkway. From there, it’s just a couple of meters to the falls. There’s a paved road, making the falls accessible for everyone.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 202 km (125.24 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 32.4 km (20.08 mi)
13. Valley of the Five Lakes
You must hike there to get to the Valley of the Five Lakes. The 4.66 km (2.9 mi) loop trail leads you along five small scenic lakes, close to the town of Jasper, yet seemingly in the middle of nowhere. You can hike a much bigger loop around the first lake if you want.
You’ll find the trailhead at the parking lot along the Icefields Parkway. Despite being a moderately challenging hike, the lakes are pretty busy in summer. The trail is open year-round, but the warmer months are the best time to visit these lakes.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 223 km (138.26 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 10.1 km (6.26 mi)
Scenic Viewpoints along the Way
The Icefields Parkway offers several viewpoints and lookouts for a quick stop to enjoy the scenery and collect some Instagram magic. It’s also a good way of slowing yourself down when you want to drive the road in one day, because the beauty along the road just begs to be admired.
1. Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint
As the name suggests, you’ll get a nice view of the impressive Crowfoot Glacier. When you see it, you’ll understand where it got its name. It was once connected to the adjacent Wapta Icefield. There’s a spacious car park next to the Icefields Parkway, providing a nice little stop. You won’t spend much time here, but it’s a picture-worthy location.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 37.2 km (23.06 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 196 km (121,52 mi)
2. Waterfowl Lake Viewpoint
Waterfowl Lake Viewpoint provides an excellent view across Waterfowl Lake. As with all viewpoints along the road, it’s easily accessible. Just steer off the road and park your car or RV to take some pretty pics. If you want, you can walk the short trail to the lake. It’s only 483 m (0.3 miles) out and back. It’ll take you about ten minutes.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 62.2 km (38.56 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 171 km (106 mi)
3. Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint
3. Weeping Wall Viewpoint
The Weeping Wall is approximately 305 meters (1000 ft) high. This set of cliffs got its name from the small cascading waterfalls coming down the rocks.
You can park your car on the other side of the road to have a nice view of the wall. Watching in the other direction, behind you, you’ll have a nice view of the valley. There’s no sign indicating the Weeping Wall, so mark this spot on a map before you head out, so you’ll know when you’ve reached it.
In winter, the waterfalls freeze over, offering spectacular images of towering pillars of ice. Outdoor enthusiasts like to use them for ice climbing.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 109 km (67,58 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 125 km (77.5 mi)
5. Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint
The Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint is a pullout on the left side of the Icefields Parkway (coming from the direction of Lake Louise). It offers excellent views on the Stutfield Glacier and the surrounding peaks. It’s absolutely worth a stop and there’s plenty of room to park and have a rest if you so desire.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 139 km (86 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 95 km (59 mi)
6. Goats and Glaciers Lookout
This viewpoint on the left side of the road is easy to miss, so keep your eyes open. It would be a shame to miss it as it provides a view of the Athabasca River and the pointy mountain peaks in the background.
This place is frequented by mountain goats (hence the name) and you’re most likely to spot them at the riverbank, down below. If you’re lucky. Though use binoculars to be able to see well that far away.
Distance from Lake Louise Village: 195 km (120.9 mi)
Distance from Jasper: 38.2 km (23,68 mi)
Distance Table for the Icefields Parkway
To make things easy for you – so you won’t have to scroll up and down all the time – I’ve included a travel table. It indicates all distances from Lake Louise and from Jasper for hotels, restaurants, highlights, viewing points and campgrounds. This way you can easily determine how much further you need to go for your next intended stop.
| Name | Kind of Stop | Distance from Lake Louise | Distance from Jasper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herbert Lake | Highlight | 7.4 km (4.59 mi) | 226 km (140 mi) |
| Hector Lake | Highlight | 22.9 km (13.64 mi) | 211 km (131 mi) |
| Mosquito Creek Campground | Campground | 28.4 km (17.61 mi) | 205 km (127.1 mi) |
| Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint | Viewpoint | 37.2 km (23.06 mi) | 196 km (121,52 mi) |
| Bow Lake | Highlight | 38.7 km (24 mi) | 195 km (121 mi) |
| Num-ti-Jah-Lodge | Hotel/Restaurant | 40.6 km (25.17 mi) | 194 km (120.28 mi) |
| Elkhorn Dining Room | Restaurant | 40.6 km (25.17 mi) | 194 km (120.28 mi) |
| Peyto Lake | Highlight | 45.5 km (28,21 mi) | 188 km (116.56 mi) |
| Silverhorn Creek Campground | Campground | 54.1 km, (33.54 mi) | 178 km (110.36 mi) |
| Waterfowl Lakes Campground | Campground | 61.3 km (38 mi) | 172 km (106.64 mi) |
| Waterfowl Lake | Viewpoint | 62.2 km (38.56 mi) | 171 km (106 mi) |
| Mistaya Canyon | Highlight | 75.1 km (46.56 mi) | 158 km (97.96 mi) |
| Saskatchewan River Crossing | Highlight | 80.4 km (49.84 mi) | 155 km (96.1 mi) |
| The Crossing Resort | Hotel | 81.1 km (50.28 mi) | 154 km (95.48 mi) |
| The Crossing Cafe | Cafetaria | 81.1 km (50.28 mi) | 154 km (95.48 mi) |
| Parkway Pub | Cafe | 81.1 km (50.28 mi) | 154 km (95.48 mi) |
| Mt Wilson Restaurant | Restaurant | 81.1 km (50.28 mi) | 154 km (95.48 mi) |
| Rampart Creek Campground | Campground | 93.2 km (57.78 mi) | 141 km (87.42 mi) |
| Weeping Wall Viewpoint | Viewpoint | 109 km (67,58 mi) | 125 km (77.5 mi) |
| Big Hill & Big Bend | Highlight | 116 km (71.92 mi) | 118 km (73.16 mi) |
| Parker Ridge | Highlight | 121 km (75 mi) | 113 km (70 mi) |
| Columbia Icefield | Highlight | 130 km (80.6 mi) | 104 km (64.48 mi) |
| Altitude | Restaurant | 130 km (80.6 mi) | 104 km (64.48 mi) |
| Chalet | Restaurant | 130 km (80.6 mi) | 104 km (64.48 mi) |
| Toe of the Glacier | Highlight | 130 km (80.6 mi) | 104 km (64.48 mi) |
| Glacier View Lodge | Hotel | 130 km (80.6 mi) | 104 km (64.48 mi) |
| Glacier Skywalk | Highlight | 136 km (84.32 mi) | 97.7 km (60.75 mi) |
| Tangle Creek Falls | Highlight | 137 km (84.94 mi) | 96.5 km (59.83 mi) |
| Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint | Viewpoint | 139 km (86 mi) | 95 km (59 mi) |
| Hi Beauty Creek Wilderness Hostel | Hostel | 147 km (91.14 mi) | 86.3 km (53.5 mi) |
| Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge | Hotel | 178 km (110.36 mi) | 55.2 km (34.22 mi) |
| Sunwapta Falls | Highlight | 179 km (111 mi) | 54.2 km (33.6 mi) |
| Goats and Glaciers Lookout | Viewpoint | 195 km (120.9 mi) | 38.2 km (23,68 mi) |
| HI Athabasca Falls Wilderness Hostel | Hostel | 201 km (124.62 mi) | 32.9 km (20.40 mi) |
| Athabasca Falls | Highlight | 202 km (125.24 mi) | 32.4 km (20.08 mi) |
| Valley of the Five Lakes | Highlight | 223 km (138.26 mi) | 10.1 km (6.26 mi) |
| Becker’s Chalets | Hotel | 227 km (140.74 mi) | 7.1 km (4.40 mi) |
| Wapiti Campground | Campground | 228 km (141.36 mi) | 6.3 km (3.90 mi) |
| Jasper House Bungalows | Hotel | 229 km (142 mi) | 4.6 km (2.85 mi) |
| Whistlers Campground | Campground | 231 km (143.22 mi) | 4.2 km (2.60 mi) |
Wildlife along the Way
As the Icefields Parkway cuts right through the Rockies, you can expect an abundance of wildlife. In fact, it’s rare to not see wildlife at least once during the drive. You can spot animals like elk, moose, deer, bighorn sheep and bears along the way.
Of course, there are no guarantees of seeing wildlife, so if you want to enhance your chances, get up early and start driving at dusk. At that time of the day, the activity on the highway is minimal, making wildlife come out. Also make sure you bring a camera or have your cell phone ready. After all you never know what you’ll find around the next corner.
TIP: if you see a line of parked cars on the shoulder of the road, it’s an obvious sign there’s wildlife nearby. Slow down and try to find a safe parking spot. Always be careful and don’t come too close to wildlife. Especially in case there’s a bear present.
Other articles you might be interested in:
• How to Make Sure Mosquitoes Don’t Ruin Your Stay in Banff
• Plan Your Banff Itinerary – Know the Distances
• How Much Does a Banff Vacation Cost in 2023? (Crazy Numbers)