Did you know travelers consistently rank the Icefields Parkway in Canada as one of the world’s most beautiful drives? As you drive the parkway, you will experience ancient glaciers, emerald lakes, and mountain peaks that will leave you breathless. Stretching between Canada’s most iconic national parks, Banff and Jasper, this legendary road isn’t just a scenic drive.
Last week on the podcast, we explored the history, glaciers, and some jaw-dropping facts about one of the most scenic drives in the world. If you missed that post, make sure to catch up here to get the whole experience. In this episode, we explore the incredible wildlife, the best camping spots, and must-see landmarks and share our experiences from the trip. We cover a few of those in this post, but be sure to listen to the whole adventure!
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Start your Journey on Icefields Parkway in Canada
The Icefields Parkway stretches 232 kilometers (144 miles) between Jasper and Lake Louise, passing through Banff and Jasper National Parks.
You will need a Parks Canada Discovery Pass. If you’re road-tripping like we were, the family pass costs around $151.25 CAD—a great deal for visiting multiple parks over an extended period.
Wildlife Encounters Along the Parkway
The first bear we saw in Canada was within 15 minutes of turning onto the parkway. Talk about starting the drive with a bang! The Icefields Parkway is home to an impressive range of wildlife, from grizzly bears and black bears to elk, bighorn sheep, and even the rare Woodland Caribou (you might catch a glimpse in Jasper). Keep your eyes peeled and your camera ready because wildlife sightings are frequent but fleeting.
Pro Tip: Always keep a respectful distance from wildlife. If you’re traveling with pets, always keep them on a leash. Some trails are dog-friendly, like Bow Summit Lookout and Mistaya Canyon, but regulations may vary, especially near sensitive habitats. The park is not only a home to wildlife but also a place where humans must be mindful guests.
Fuel Stops and Roadside Services
One thing we can’t stress enough is to fuel up before you begin the drive. There are few places to refuel along the parkway, so starting with a full tank is essential. Between Jasper and Lake Louise, you’ll find a gas station, restaurant, and small gift shop called Saskatchewan River Crossing. It’s a great place to stretch your legs, grab a snack, and refuel both the car and yourself.
The Scenic Highlights
About 30 kilometers south of Jasper, you will see Athabasca Falls, one of the first major stops. The falls are a sight as the Athabasca River plunges through a narrow gorge, creating thunderous echoes that fill the air. It’s an excellent place for photography and a short, easy walk from the parking lot.
One of our favorite attractions on the Icefields Parkway is the Columbia Icefield. The Columbia Icefield Centre offers the best view of this glacier system, where visitors can explore the glaciers on guided tours.
As we approached Peyto Lake, vibrant turquoise waters greeted us—some of the most stunning you’ll ever see. Due to its glacial rock flour, this lake’s striking color looks almost unreal. The viewpoint gives you beautiful panoramic views of the lake, which looks like a wolf’s head.
A Drive for the Ages
The Icefields Parkway in Canada is an unforgettable journey through the most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen. Whether you’re stopping for a hike, snapping photos at roadside pullouts, or just soaking in the views, the beauty of the Canadian Rockies is endless.
We’d love to hear your stories if you’ve experienced the Icefields Parkway! Please share them with us on Instagram @TheFaiolas or leave a voice message at TheFaiolas.com/message.
Until next time, happy travels!
