Overview
The Icefields Parkway (northern Highway 93) is a 232km mountain road from Lake Louise to Jasper, named one of National Geographic's '10 best drives in the world.' More than 100 ancient glaciers, emerald lakes, waterfalls, and 4,000m peaks flank the road, like driving through a natural museum. Key stops include heart-shaped Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefield (with the Ice Explorer tour), Athabasca Falls, and Athabasca Glacier. One-way takes 4-6 hours, so a 2-day itinerary is recommended. Park Pass required. Best from May to October.
Opening Hours
Open 24 hours (some sections closed in winter)
Travel Tips
May-October is the safest driving window. Gas stations are scarce - fuel up before departing, and allow plenty of time for photos.
Hotels near Icefields Parkway
Hotels and guesthouses in Banff, Icefields Parkway, Alberta
Other attractions in Banff
Lake Louise
An emerald lake fed by the Victoria Glacier — the symbol of the Canadian Rockies.
Banff Gondola
A gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain for sweeping panoramic views of the Rockies.
Moraine Lake
A turquoise lake encircled by ten peaks — a scene once featured on Canadian currency.
Johnston Canyon
A popular trail winding through a canyon to waterfalls - and freezing into spectacular ice falls in winter.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
A natural hot spring set against the Rockies - a mineral-rich pool at 1,585m elevation.
Lake Minnewanka
Banff's largest lake, known for boat cruises and wildlife sightings.
Banff Avenue
Banff town's main street, framed by Cascade Mountain - a quintessential mountain village scene.