Banff & Jasper Travel Guide

A quick-reference guide to exploring Banff & Jasper National Parks, built around the legendary Icefields Parkway connecting Lake Louise and Jasper.

Sights & Activities

Lake Louise: World-famous turquoise lake. reel
Herbert Lake: Quick stop for mirror-like reflections. reel
Bow Lake & Bow Glacier: Stunning views right by the highway. reel
Peyto Lake: Shaped like a wolf’s head; best viewed from Bow Summit viewpoint. reel
Mistaya Canyon: Short hike to a powerful rushing gorge. reel
Saskatchewan River Crossing: Gas, food, and historical site; stock up here. reel
Weeping Wall: Waterfalls streaming down a cliff face. reel
Big Bend: Iconic winding curve with epic mountain views. reel
Columbia Icefield / Athabasca Glacier: Walk on a glacier or take the Ice Explorer tour. reel
Glacier Skywalk: Glass walkway 280 m above Sunwapta Valley. reel
Sunwapta Falls: Thundering falls with an island splitting the river. reel
Athabasca Falls: Powerful falls carving deep canyons. reel
Jasper: Cozy mountain town with wildlife roaming free; end point of the parkway. reel

The Icefields Parkway drive stretches 230 km (140 miles) and is considered one of the world’s most scenic drives. reel
Stock up on gas and food at Saskatchewan River Crossing, as services are limited along the route. reel
Best for viewing glaciers and wildlife; expect dramatic alpine scenery throughout. reel
Multiple viewpoint and hiking opportunities are available along the route. reel
Accessible from both Lake Louise (south) and Jasper (north). reel
Plan for a full day drive with multiple stops to maximize the experience. reel