Renowned as the most beautiful road in Canada—and maybe even the world—the Icefields Parkway is a 235-kilometer scenic highway connecting Banff and Jasper National Parks.
While you could technically drive it in about three hours, you’ll want to give yourself much more time.
Along the way, you’ll see towering snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, ancient glaciers, and countless breathtaking viewpoints.
Here’s a guide to the top stops along the route—plus, why staying at the Glacier View Lodge is the ultimate way to experience the Canadian Rockies.
Watch the full video tour here:
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Starting Out: Banff to Lake Louise
Most travelers begin from Banff. Instead of taking the main highway, try the quieter Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A).
This scenic stretch offers a higher chance of spotting wildlife, and ends at Morant’s Curve, one of the Rockies’ most iconic photo spots.
At Lake Louise, take in the emerald water framed by soaring mountains. You can stroll the shoreline or hike higher for a panoramic view.
Just 20 minutes away is Moraine Lake, considered by many the most beautiful lake in Canada.
Since private vehicles are not allowed, you’ll need to book a shuttle (the Moraine Lake Bus Company is a great choice).
Scenic Lakes and Viewpoints
- Herbert Lake – Right off the highway, this quiet lake has picnic areas, restrooms, and a mirror-like view of the mountains.
- Bow Lake – A shimmering turquoise gem at the base of Bow Glacier, with wide pull-offs for photos or a lakeside walk.
- Peyto Lake – A short but steep paved trail leads to one of the most famous viewpoints in the Rockies. The vivid blue, wolf-shaped lake is unforgettable.
- Mistaya Canyon – A quick hike rewards you with rushing waters carving through a dramatic gorge.
Midway Stop: Saskatchewan Crossing
Almost at the halfway point, Saskatchewan Crossing is a practical stop with gas, a restaurant, bar, washrooms, and even a hotel (The Crossing Resort).
Nearby, don’t miss:
- Weeping Wall Viewpoint – Multiple waterfalls cascading down a mountain face.
- Big Bend Viewpoint – A sweeping hairpin turn with expansive valley views.
For hikers, Parker Ridge offers a moderate 5 km trail with panoramic views at the summit.
👉 pro tip: No car? No Worries! You can book this Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and the Icefields Parkway Full-Day Tour
The Columbia Icefield & Glacier View Lodge
The highlight of the entire drive is the Columbia Icefield, home to the Athabasca Glacier.
And the best way to experience it?
Staying at the Glacier View Lodge – a boutique 30-room hotel perched right above the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre.
Why Stay at the Glacier View Lodge
Unrivaled Location: It’s the only hotel in Canada overlooking a glacier.
From the moment you step into the Moraine Lounge, floor-to-ceiling windows frame a view that feels like stepping into a postcard.
Chic Comfort: Rooms are styled in a modern, Scandinavian-Alpine mix, each with glacier views.
Exclusive Experiences: Guests enjoy a welcome reception with appetizers and drinks, plus access to the Columbia Icefield Guided Experience.
This includes:
- An after-hours visit to the Glacier Skywalk, where you’ll share the glass-bottom cliffside walkway with only a handful of people.
- A private morning tour of the Athabasca Glacier, making you the first to step onto the ice before the crowds.
Fine Dining at Altitude: The on-site restaurant serves Canadian cuisine with local ingredients, creative cocktails, and panoramic glacier views.
Dining here is as much about the atmosphere as the food!
Quiet Evenings & Stargazing: Once day-trippers leave, the highway falls silent.
With no light pollution, stargazing is absolutely spectacular.
We paid full price for our stay—and it was worth every penny.
This lodge isn’t just accommodation, it’s part of the experience of the Icefields Parkway.
👉 For the best rate, book your stay at the Glacier View Lodge here
Good to know: this hotel is only open in the summer months, from June through September. Bookings don’t open until a couple of months before, so save this post to come back and book your stay!
Continuing North Toward Jasper
After the Columbia Icefield, the road is dotted with even more gems:
- Beauty Creek Trail – A hidden hike with multiple waterfalls leading to Stanley Falls.
- Sunwapta Falls – A powerful double-barreled cascade just minutes from the road.
- Athabasca Falls – One of the most powerful waterfalls in the Rockies, where you’ll definitely feel the mist.
- Valley of the Five Lakes – A 4 km loop trail past five emerald-green lakes, perfect for stretching your legs before reaching Jasper.
Arrival in Jasper
At the end of your journey, the town of Jasper welcomes you with a quieter, more laid-back vibe than Banff.
It’s the perfect spot to rest, explore further, or continue your Rocky Mountain adventure.
Here’s a 3-day itinerary to give you an idea about how much time to spend (p.s., I highly recommend the hot springs)!