19 Best Stops On The Icefields Parkway! [2025 Guide]

Looking for the best Icefields Parkway stops? This post has you covered!

The Icefields Parkway is undoubtedly one of the worlds most scenic drives. This 230 kilometre stretch of road winds through the rugged terrain of the Canadian Rockies. There is something new to be experienced around every corner. From hanging glaciers, majestic wildlife to the jaw-dropping Peyto Lake. This post includes all the best Icefields Parkway stops that you need to add to your Canadian Rockies itinerary. 

If you only have the one day, there are some things that can be missed. Below are the top spots on the Icefields Parkway, you can pick and choose your favourites depending on time allocation. Read on to discover all the essential information you need to plan your Icefields Parkway road trip.

A City Girl Outside contains affiliate links. If you decide to make a purchase through these links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for reading!

---

What is the Icefields Parkway?

The Icefields Parkway, also known as Highway 93 North, is a remarkable journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Located in the province of Alberta, it stretches for 232 kilometres between Lake Louise in Banff National Park and the town of Jasper in Jasper National Park. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, ancient glaciers, and emerald lakes, the Parkway offers a stunning showcase of Canada’s mountain landscapes.

Historically, the Icefields Parkway holds great significance as it was constructed during the Great Depression in the 1930s as a way to foster tourism and stimulate economic growth.

Today, it serves as a living testament to Canada’s rich history and natural beauty, attracting over a million visitors annually. In fact, the Parkway is not just a road but a corridor through which visitors can learn about the region’s geological history, view wildlife, and appreciate the celestial wonder of dark sky reserves.

Its unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes it one of the best things to do in the Canadian Rockies. The Parkway is the gateway to some of the most exquisite natural attractions in the world, including the Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, and Athabasca Falls.

How Long Does It Take to Drive the Icefields Parkway?

While the Icefields Parkway itself stretches over 232 kilometres, the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper usually takes about three hours without stops. However, I recommend taking your time and spending at least one whole day doing this drive.

With so many breathtaking stops along the Icefields Parkway, a more realistic timeframe to fully experience and appreciate the route’s stunning beauty would be around 5 to 6 hours. This allows for several stops for photos, short hikes, and potentially wildlife sightings.

---

What is the Ideal Time to Drive the Icefields Parkway?

The Icefields Parkway offers breathtaking views year-round, but the ideal time to drive depends on what you wish to experience. Summertime, from June to September, is the most popular period because the weather is warm and all services, including campgrounds and visitor centres, are open.

This is also the best time for wildlife viewing and hiking, with numerous trails accessible from the stops along the Icefields Parkway. However, please note that summer also brings crowds, so start your journey early to avoid heavy traffic and secure a parking spot at popular stops.

Autumn, particularly September and October, provides a colourful backdrop of changing foliage, making it a photographer’s dream. It’s also less crowded than the summer months.

Winter, from November to April, brings a different kind of beauty to the Parkway. Snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes create a stunning winter wonderland. However, certain attractions and facilities may be closed, and driving can be tricky due to snow and ice.

Regardless of the season, always check the road conditions before your journey, as the weather in the Canadian Rockies can be unpredictable. Ultimately, the best time to drive the Icefields Parkway depends on your interests and your comfort with driving in different weather conditions.

---

Should I Rent a Car for the Icefields Parkway?

Yes, renting a car for the Icefields Parkway is a highly recommended option. Having your own vehicle provides the flexibility to explore at your own pace and stop at any location that catches your fancy. Many of the best stops along the Icefields Parkway are off the main road, and having a car allows you to visit these hidden gems.

A car rental also allows you to carry all the necessary items for your journey, such as food, water, and camping gear, without worrying about carrying them on public transportation.

Please note that during peak tourist season, rental cars can be in high demand, so it’s advisable to book well in advance which you can do through RentalCars.

---

Is the Icefields Parkway Free?

Yes, driving on the Icefields Parkway itself is free. However, it’s important to note that the Parkway runs through two national parks – Banff National Park and Jasper National Park. Both parks require visitors to purchase a park pass, also known as a “Park Permit,” to gain access.

The cost of the pass varies depending on the duration of your visit and the size of your group. For the most accurate information on pricing, it’s recommended to check the official Parks Canada website.

While the Parkway itself is free to drive, there may be additional costs if you choose to participate in guided tours, visit specific attractions, or stay overnight at the various lodges and campsites at the stops along the Icefields Parkway.

Remember, the cost of a park pass goes towards maintaining the pristine condition of these natural wonders and ensuring they can be enjoyed by generations to come.

---

---

What is the Road Like on the Icefields Parkway?

The Icefields Parkway, also known as Highway 93, is renowned for its scenic beauty, but it’s also a well-maintained and generally straight-forward drive. The two-lane highway is fully paved, making it accessible for all types of vehicles – from cars to RVs.

However, keep in mind that while the road conditions are generally good, they can vary greatly depending on the weather. During the winter months, the road can become icy and snow-covered, making it a challenging drive, especially for those not accustomed to winter driving conditions. In summer or warmer weather, the road is generally clear and travel is easier.

Several pull-offs and parking areas are available at the main stops along the Icefields Parkway, allowing drivers to stop, rest, and take in the remarkable scenery. Remember this is a mountain road, so prepare for steep grades and sharp bends. Always drive with caution, respect the speed limits and be mindful of wildlife crossing the road.

Icefields Parkway Stops Map

Click the image below to see the map in full.

Tips For Driving The Icefields Parkway

• Get gas before you leave – There is only one place along the Icefields Parkway to get gas, which is the Saskatchewan River Crossing. It’s also really expensive here so filling up before you head out is recommended. 

• Purchase your parks pass – If driving from Banff or Jasper, you’ll no doubt have a Parks Pass by the time you embark of your Icefields Parkway road trip, but if not you should purchase it the day before to make your drive as smooth as possible. Passes can be purchased from any Parks Canada kiosk. 

• Leave early – I recommend leaving first thing in the morning, around 7am. The earlier you leave the better as you get to see the road with little to no cars – which also makes for amazing photo opportunities! 

• Drive the Parkway in both directions – The Icefields Parkway drive can be done in either direction, in fact if you are spending 2 weeks in the Canadian Rockies I would highly recommend doing it in both directions. This way if you do miss anything, you can do it on the way back. This is exactly what I did!

• No Cell Service – There is no cell service along the Icefields parkway so it’s important to be prepared for this drive prior to departing. If you do want access to WiFi during this road trip, the only place to access it is at the Icefields Centre just by the Athabasca Glacier. The WiFi is free to use and available throughout the whole centre. 

• Watch For Wildlife – It’s possible to spot wildlife at any point during the drive along the Icefields Parkway. Drive with caution as animals can walk out into the road at any moment or be hanging by the roadside. It’s possible to spot a multitude of wildlife including bears, elk, bighorn sheep and caribou. 

• Download The Gypsy App – You can purchase the Gypsy audio guide for $10. This guide is definitely an enhancement to the drive. Turn off your music and put the audio guidebook on, it will make you look at things you wouldn’t notice otherwise but also teaches you about the history and geology of the area. 

• Have your camera at the ready – There are views to be had along the whole Icefields Parkway drive. There will be viewpoints and many more stops not mentioned in this post that you may want to take a quick photo of. Not to be mention that there will be encounters with wildlife dotted along the parkway that you’ll definitely want to have your camera ready for. 

• Bring snacks – Not only are there very few restaurants on the parkway, but the places that do sell food are expensive. And who wants to be hangry on a road trip? We had leftover pizza and wings from our time in Lake Louise (both make great road trip snacks) but I’d also recommend bringing something substantial. The day before you head out, go buy some yummy sandwiches ready to go for your drive. 

---

The Best Icefields Parkway Stops

If you are planning a road trip through the Canadian Rockies, you’ve probably got the Icefields Parkway on your must-do list. This iconic road connects Banff National Park with Jasper National Park.

The scenery along the Icefields Parkway has to be seen to believe. Photographs do not do this incredible place justice.

There is so much to see along the Icefields Parkway, the tough part is deciding where the stop. This list compiles all the best stops on the Icefields Parkway including how long to spend at each location. 

1. Herbert Lake

Despite its smaller size compared to the neighbouring lakes, Herbert Lake is renowned for its pristine, mirror-like water which perfectly reflects the towering mountains and lush forest that surround it. This makes it a popular spot for photography, particularly in the early morning when the water is at its calmest.

In addition to its photographic charm, Herbert Lake offers several recreational activities. The lake’s clear waters make it a perfect spot for a refreshing swim or paddle boardin the warmer summer months.

2. Hector Lake

Hector Lake, named after a famous geologist, James Hector, is another breathtaking stop on your journey along the Icefields Parkway. Located amidst towering mountains and dense forests, this large glacial lake is considered one of the most photogenic spots in the Canadian Rockies.

Its stunning turquoise waters, fed by the Waputik Glacier, offer a serene place to reflect or enjoy a picnic. The lake’s remote location and lack of major tourist facilities mean it’s often less crowded than other Icefields Parkway stops.

Hector Lake is not accessible directly from the Icefields Parkway. A brief hike is required to reach its shores. The trailhead can be a bit tricky to locate, but the effort is well worth it once you are rewarded with the tranquil beauty of this pristine lake.

3. Bow Lake

Bow Lake is another remarkable stop along the Icefields Parkway that you won’t want to miss. As one of the largest lakes in Banff National Park, it captivates visitors with its brilliant turquoise waters set against a backdrop of towering mountains and glaciers. The lake, fed by the Bow Glacier, is easily accessible from the Icefields Parkway.

A highlight of visiting Bow Lake is the historic Bow Lake Lodge (previously called Num-Ti-Jah Lodge). This rustic, crimson-coloured lodge sits on the shores of the lake offering a picture-postcard setting. The lodge also serves as a starting point for trails that lead to Bow Glacier Falls and the Bow Hut for those seeking a more adventurous hike.

Bow Lake is by far one of my favourite lakes in Banff National Park and coming here early in the morning was an experience that can’t be replicated. Arriving here early is great for several reasons. There are far less crowds and the lighting is perfect for photographs.

• Time Needed: 20-30 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 39km
• Distance from Jasper: 195km

4. Peyto Lake

Renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters and stunning surroundings, Peyto Lake is undoubtedly one of the most impressive Icefields Parkway stops. Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, this glacier-fed lake is named after Bill Peyto, a trail guide and trapper in the Canadian Rockies during the early 1900s.

The unique, wolf-head shape of the lake and the surrounding peaks create a mesmerizing view that changes with the seasons and light conditions. During summer, the lake takes on its iconic turquoise hue due to the rock flour that flows into it from the nearby Peyto Glacier.

A short hike from the parking lot takes you to the Peyto Lake overlook, a brand new viewing platform offers panoramic views of the lake and its surrounding landscapes. Peyto Lake is SUPER popular with tour busses, so getting here early is essential.

• Time Needed: 30 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 46km
• Distance from Jasper: 188km

5. Waterfowl Lakes

Waterfowl Lakes are a pair of stunning glacial-fed lakes nestled in the Mistaya Valley. I think these lakes are some of the most underrated lakes in Banff – they are definitely worth a stop on your Icefields Parkway itinerary. Towering above the lakes is the majestic Mount Chephren.

During the warmer months, Waterfowl Lakes are an ideal location for canoeing and fishing, while the surrounding trails offer excellent hiking and wildlife spotting. Notably, the lake area is a habitat for waterfowl, hence its name, making it a haven for bird-watchers.

• Time Needed: 20 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 60km
• Distance from Jasper: 174km

6. Chephren Lake

Chephren Lake is a less frequented yet immensely beautiful stop along the Icefields Parkway. Situated at the base of Howse Peak and flanked by Mount Chephren, this picturesque lake offers a serene stopover during your Icefields Parkway road trip. A well-maintained trail leads visitors from the parking lot to the lake, offering a moderate hike through the forest.

7. Mistaya Canyon

Mistaya Canyon, carved out by the powerful Mistaya River, is another fascinating stop along the Icefields Parkway. The canyon’s distinctive limestone walls, weathered over centuries into intricate patterns, are a testament to the raw power and persistence of nature.

The Canyon is accessible via a short, well-marked trail from the parking area, which descends through a lush forest before reaching the roaring river and the canyon’s edge. The hike to Mistaya Canyon takes around 15-minutes one way. It’s a short slightly downhill hike that the majority of visitors will be able to do, which makes it one of the top family friendly waterfall hikes in Alberta.

Although this hike is short, the views are stunning and you’ll want to spend some time taking photos of this beautifully rugged canyon.

• Time Needed: 30 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 75km
• Distance from Jasper: 158km

8. Saskatchewan River Crossing

One of the only places to get gas on the Icefields Parkway is the Saskatchewan River Crossing. Named after the convergence of three rivers – the North Saskatchewan, the Howse, and the Mistaya, this spot is steeped in history and offers stunning views.

This is a great area to stretch your legs and grab a coffee mid-way through your Icefields Parkway road trip. If you are low on gas this is the only place to fill up until you reach either Banff or Jasper. If you can avoid getting gas here I’d recommend holding out as the gas is so expensive (We found it cheap coming from BC however!) 

• Time Needed: 10 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 80km
• Distance from Jasper: 153km

9. Weeping Wall Viewpoint

Another must-see stop along the Icefields Parkway is the Weeping Wall. This unique natural feature gets its name from the countless streams of water that cascade down its cliff face, creating the illusion of a weeping surface.

The Weeping Wall is particularly breathtaking during the colder months when the cascades freeze, transforming the cliff into an ice sculpture. Often, you can spot daring ice climbers scaling these frozen falls. Even if you are not into ice climbing, the Weeping Wall offers an unforgettable view and serves as an ideal spot for capturing stunning photographs.

This is a quick pitstop along the Icefields Parkway and should only require a few minutes to really enjoy.  

• Time Needed: 10 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 109km
• Distance from Jasper: 125km

10. The Big Bend & Cirrus Viewpoint

One of the highlights of traveling along the Icefields Parkway is the opportunity to stop at the Big Bend and Cirrus viewpoint. It’s one of the best viewpoints on the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper and It’s much more exciting than it sounds!

The Big Bend is a dramatic, wide U-turn in the road where the forest opens up to reveal a majestic vista of rugged mountains and undulating valleys. It’s the perfect spot to pull over and snap some unforgettable photos. This area often has Big Horn Sheep roaming around so keep an eye out!

Just a short drive away, the Cirrus viewpoint stands in a class of its own. Positioned at an elevation, it offers an unparalleled view of the Cirrus Mountain and the section of the Parkway you just travelled through.

Just after you are about to exit the Big Bend you’ll see a big pullout on the right hand side of the road. Pull off here and keep walking, you’ll eventually come to what is probably the most iconic scene along the Icefields Parkway – the Cirrus Mountain viewpoint. Don’t be fooled by this “pull-in” this is more than just a stop to stretch your legs. 

I love this viewpoint so much because I think it is one of the most iconic views of the Icefields Parkway and really showcases the vastness of the landscape here.

• Time Needed: 10 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 116km
• Distance from Jasper: 118km

11. Parker Ridge Hike

For those who love to hike, the Parker Ridge Hike is an essential stop along the Icefields Parkway. This moderately challenging trail takes you to incredible heights, offering a spectacular panoramic view of the Saskatchewan Glacier – the largest glacier that can be viewed from the Icefields Parkway.

The hike is about 5 kilometres round trip, taking an average of 2 to 3 hours to complete. As you ascend, you’ll traverse a series of switchbacks through a lush alpine meadow adorned with vibrant wildflowers in the warmer months.

The real reward, however, waits at the ridge’s top, where you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking view of the expansive, icy blue glacier stretching out beneath the surrounding peaks.

12. Wilcox Pass Hike

If you are chasing glaciers, the Wilcox Pass hike is one of the best. Known for its stunning views of Athabasca Glacier, this trail is a popular stop on the Icefields Parkway. At 9.3km it’s a bit harder than the Parker Ridge hike but features just as many stunning viewpoints.

The hike is about 8 kilometres round trip and typically takes around 3 to 4 hours to complete. The trail begins in a dense, fragrant forest of red spruce. As you climb, the tree line gradually recedes, opening up to an expansive tundra-like landscape. This is where you’ll capture some of the most impressive views of the Icefields Parkway – the Athabasca Glacier.

About 1.7km into this hike you’ll find two of the iconic red chairs which are positioned perfectly to enjoy views of Dome Glacier, Athabasca Glacier and Mount Athabasca. 

• Time Needed: 4-5 Hours
• Distance from Lake Louise: 127km
• Distance from Jasper: 107km

13. Columbia Icefield & Athabasca Glacier

The Athabasca Glacier sits on the edges of both Banff National Park and Jasper National Park and is one of the largest glaciers in the world. 

I really enjoyed my time touring the Athabasca Glacier but this did take up most of the day. In total the tour and Sky Walk took around 3 – 4 hours. If you are not a fan of guided tours then consider one of the hikes along the Icefields Parkway. You can also opt to take a guided hike on the glacier but this will also take up a few hours of your time. 

There are a couple of restaurants at the Icefields Centre but they are on the pricey side. For example, the sandwiches were around $18. There is also a Starbucks if you’d just like to stop for coffee.

Although the Icefields Centre is expensive for food – the bathrooms and Wifi are free! Whether you decide to take the Ice Explorer tour or not, you should take advantage of this stop where you can stretch your legs, use the bathrooms, access free Wifi, check out the gift shop and take amazing photos – all for free! 

• Time Needed: 2-4 Hours
• Distance from Lake Louise: 130km
• Distance from Jasper: 104km

14. Glacier Sky Walk

The Skywalk is included in the Ice Explorer tour ticket price, but it can also be purchased separately. The Skywalk is a glass platform that juts out of the side of the mountain and features views of the thick layers of the Columbia Icefield.

If you decide not to do the Athabasca Glacier tour, then you can probably skip this stop for something more interesting. While I enjoyed my time at the Sky Walk, there at better views ahead for free. The Sky Walk is situated in an area that doesn’t really showcase anything in particular. 

• Time Needed: 45 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 136km
• Distance from Jasper: 98km

15. Tangle Creek Falls

Another quick stop along the Icefields Parkway is Tangle Creek Falls. Located just off the parkway, Tangle Creek Falls is a multi-tiered waterfall, with water tumbling from several different levels.

The falls are most impressive in the spring and early summer when the snowmelt turns them into a cascading spectacle. A set of stairs lead to the top, offering varying views of the falls and the surrounding landscapes.

This stop only requires about 10-minutes but can also be done on the drive back to Banff if you are short on time. This can also be enjoyed simply by driving by if you were to slow down.

There is a parking lot on the opposite side of the road from the falls to allow you to stop and get up close to the waterfall. It’s a good idea to add this to your Icefields Parkway map to ensure you don’t miss it! 

• Time Needed: 10 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 137km
• Distance from Jasper: 97km

16. Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint

There are an abundance of glaciers to spot along the Icefields Parkway, and one of the easiest is the Stutfield Glacier. Named after Hugh Stutfield, an early explorer in the area, the Stutfield Glacier flows from the Columbia Icefield.

There is a parking lot to allow visitors to stop and take some quick snaps of the glacier across the river. This section of the Icefields Parkway where you will get to experience a land of ancient glaciers. 

• Time Needed: 10 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 139km
• Distance from Jasper: 95km

17. Sunwapta Falls 

As you continue your journey along the Icefields Parkway, be sure not to miss the spectacular Sunwapta Falls. The name ‘Sunwapta’ is a native word that translates to ‘turbulent water’, and the falls certainly live up to this name.

Set against the backdrop of the stunning Rocky Mountains, the Sunwapta Falls are a spectacular sight as the Sunwapta River takes a sharp drop of about 18.5 meters. The river originates from the Athabasca Glacier, and the falls are most powerful in the late spring and early summer when the glacier is melting.

There are two sets of falls to explore – the upper and lower falls. A short, paved walking trail leads you to a viewpoint where you can enjoy the magnificent view of the upper falls. If you’re up for a bit more of a hike, a 1.3-kilometre trail descends to the lower falls, where you’ll find a quieter but equally beautiful setting.

• Time Needed: 20 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 179km
• Distance from Jasper: 56km

18. Goats & Glacier Lookout

Your next stop on this Icefields Parkway drive is the aptly named Goats and Glaciers Viewpoint. This vantage point offers an unparalleled view of the surrounding landscape, where you can spot mountain goats in their natural habitat and feast your eyes on the magnificent glaciers in the distance.

The viewpoint is easily accessible by a small parking area off the parkway. A short stroll from the parking lot will lead you to the viewing platform. The mountain goats are often spotted grazing on the rocky terrain or lazily lounging in the sun. In contrast, the glaciers, mainly the Victoria Glacier, provide a stunning backdrop with their icy blue sheen.

• Time Needed: 10 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 195km
• Distance from Jasper: 38km

19. Athabasca Falls & Canyon

A road trip along the Icefields Parkway wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the magnificent Athabasca Falls. This powerful waterfall may not be the tallest in the Canadian Rockies, but the force of the rushing water makes it a sight to behold. The falls are a result of the Athabasca River encountering a layer of hard quartzite, creating a dramatic drop and a stunning spectacle of water and mist.

The trail to the falls is well-marked and easy to navigate, making it an accessible stop for all visitors. As you approach, you’ll hear the roar of the falls before you see them. An array of viewing platforms and bridges provide different perspectives of the falls and the surrounding canyon. Be prepared for the spray as the mighty Athabasca River plummets into the gorge below.

• Time Needed: 10-20 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 202km
• Distance from Jasper: 33km

20. Horseshoe Lake

Horseshoe Lake, a hidden gem among the Icefields Parkway stops, is a serene spot to relax, picnic, and take in the beauty of nature. Tucked away from the main road, the lake gets its name from its distinctive horseshoe shape, visible from the surrounding higher ground.

Nestled amidst verdant forest, the lake’s emerald green waters are a sight to behold. These waters are unbelievably clear, further enhanced by the sunlight filtering through the trees. The lake is a popular spot for cliff jumping, with thrill-seekers plunging into the deep, chill waters from heights of up to 80 feet.

But if you prefer a more relaxing visit, a leisurely hike around the lake provides ample opportunities to spot local wildlife. In the summer, the lake’s shores become a riot of wildflowers, making it a photographer’s paradise.

• Time Needed: 20-30 minutes
• Distance from Lake Louise: 202km
• Distance from Jasper: 28km

21. Valley of the Five Lakes

The Valley of the Five Lakes trail offers a moderate hike that takes you through a series of five stunningly beautiful lakes, each with its unique shade of jade or blue.

The trail, approximately 9 kilometres long, winds through lush forest, offering glimpses of the vibrant lakes and the majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies. It’s a treat for nature lovers, with abundant wildflowers in the summer and a high likelihood of spotting wildlife such as elk, moose, and even bears.

There are several viewing points along the trail for you to stop and admire the spectacular scenery. The third and fourth lakes are considered the most picturesque, but every lake has its own charm.

The great thing about this hike is that it is only a ten minute drive from Jasper so you can always leave this for another day. If you are spending a few days in Jasper during your Canadian Rockies vacation, this is a great option to add to your itinerary. 

• Time Needed: 2-3 Hours
• Distance from Lake Louise: 223km
• Distance from Jasper: 10km

22. Jasper Town

Jasper, located at the northern end of the Icefields Parkway, is a charming alpine town that serves as a perfect base for exploring the natural splendours of the Canadian Rockies. Known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning surroundings, Jasper offers a mix of outdoor adventures, wildlife viewing, and culinary delights.

Surrounded by towering mountains, the town promises spectacular views at every turn. From hiking and biking in summer to skiing and snowshoeing in winter, Jasper is a year-round outdoor playground. It’s also part of the world’s second largest dark sky preserve, making it an ideal spot for stargazing.

Among the many activities to enjoy in Jasper, a visit to Pyramid and Maligne Lakes is a must. Pyramid Lake, located at the foot of Pyramid Mountain, offers a tranquil setting for canoeing, fishing, and picnicking. The island in the middle of the lake, accessible by a walking bridge, is a popular spot for photos.

On the other hand, Maligne Lake, the second largest glacier-fed lake in the world, is renowned for its vibrant blue waters, Spirit Island, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Opt for a boat cruise, rent a kayak, or hike along the shoreline to truly experience its staggering beauty.

---

Where To Stay On The Icefields Parkway

Hotels, Hostels & Lodges

There are very few hotels along the Icefields Parkway, but if you do want to spend a night here below are the best lodging options. 

The Bow Lake Lodge (formally Num Ti Jah Lodge) is a historical lodge that sits on the shores of Bow Lodge. The lodge is named after explorer Jimmy Simpson who opened the lodge 25 years after camping here in 1898. The lodge has not changed much since completion of construction in 1950. 

The Glacier View Lodge is located next to the Icefields Centre and features spectacular views of the Athabasca Glacier. This luxury hotel is open seasonally and perks include morning guided tours of the Athabasca Glacier. 

For budget travellers the HI Rampart Creek Hostel which is popular among tour groups.

Campsites

There are many camping options along the Icefields Parkway which are great for accessing hiking trails. Some of the popular campgrounds include Waterton Lakes Campground, Columbia Icefield Campground, Wilcox Pass and Wabasso Campground. 

---

Can I Drive the Icefields Parkway in the Winter?

Yes, it’s possible to drive the Icefields Parkway in the winter, but it’s important to note that it will be a much different experience compared to other seasons. Winter on the Parkway can be harsh and unpredictable with snowstorms, icy road conditions, and below-freezing temperatures. This means you should be well-prepared, experienced in winter driving, and ready to face potential challenges.

The road is plowed and maintained throughout the winter, but it’s not uncommon for certain sections to be temporarily closed due to weather conditions. Always check the official road reports before you set off. The use of snow tires or chains is mandatory between November 1 and March 31, and having a winter survival kit in your vehicle is highly recommended.

While the conditions may be challenging, winter also transforms the Parkway into a magical winter wonderland. The mountains and trees are draped in snow, lakes freeze over, and the number of tourists is significantly lower. Some of the stops along the Icefields Parkway, like the Athabasca Glacier, offer unique winter activities such as ice walking tours or ice climbing.

Remember, winter driving on the Parkway requires a higher level of caution and preparation. Stay safe, respect the winter road conditions, and enjoy the enchanting winter scenery that the Icefields Parkway has to offer.

Can I Hike along the Icefields Parkway?

Absolutely! Hiking is one of the most popular activities to do at the various stops along the Icefields Parkway. With numerous trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes, there’s something to suit all ability levels.

For a relatively easy hike with stunning views, try the Peyto Lake Lookout trail. This short, uphill walk leads to one of the most incredible vistas in the Rockies.

For more experienced hikers, the Wilcox Pass trail offers a moderate to difficult hike with breathtaking views of the Columbia Icefield. The trailhead is located near the Wilcox Creek Campground.

For those seeking a more challenging excursion, the Parker Ridge trail, another popular stop on the Icefields Parkway, offers a steep climb but rewards hikers with expansive views over the Saskatchewan Glacier – the longest glacier in the Columbia Icefields.

---

Click A Pin Below To Save For Later!