lake louise to jasper road trip

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Lake Louise To Jasper Drive – 17 Amazing Stops! [2024 Guide]

The awe-inspiring drive from Lake Louise to Jasper is a breathtaking passage through some of the most magnificent landscapes Mother Nature has to offer. The allure of this route is undeniable, drawing countless travellers, especially during the summer months when it shines in all its glory.

Having experienced many iconic road trips around the world, including the Pacific Coast Highway in California and the Great Ocean Road in Australia, I can confidently say that the Icefields Parkway stands out as one of the most beautiful drives in the world.

This mesmerizing route winds through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, where majestic peaks pierce the sky and pristine wilderness stretches as far as the eye can see. This iconic journey is a testament to the unrivalled beauty of Canada’s western provinces, Alberta and British Columbia, where nature truly reigns supreme.

Each twist and turn of the road reveals a new wonder, from watching the sunrise in Lake Louise to experiencing the icy wonderland of the Athabasca glacier . Along the way, be prepared to encounter a parade of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and even bears, as they roam freely in their natural habitats.

While this road trip starts in Lake Louise, rest assured that you can easily undertake the same adventure in reverse, starting from Jasper to Lake Louise and visiting these incredible attractions in the opposite order.

I have experienced the drive in both directions, and recommend doing do if you are heading back to Banff on your trip.

In this blog, I have curated a selection of must-visit stops on this remarkable journey from Lake Louise to Jasper.

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!

Parks Canada National Parks Pass Info

If you are visiting or planning a trip to any of Canada’s National Parks, you will need to purchase a parks pass. There are a number of options available. 

Single Day Admission:

This option is great if you only plan to spend a day or two in a National Park. Valid for one person per day. See the Parks Canada website for current rates. Children 17 or younger are free. 

Group Daily Admission:

This is a great option if you have up to 7 people per one vehicle. It is cheaper than purchasing a pass for each person. See the Parks Canada website for current rates. 

Parks Canada Discovery Pass: 

A discovery Pass is, in my opinion, the best option for people visiting in groups for a week or more. This is an annual pass and is valid from the day you buy it. It will give you 365 days of entry to all of Canada’s National Parks. I purchased this for my 12 day trip to the Banff and Jasper in 2021 and used it 3 more times in Banff in 2022 and another for Pacific Rim in Tofino. If you are planning on traveling around Canada for an extended period of time, this is worth the money! 

The Discovery Pass will cover up to 7 people per vehicle. You can purchase the Discovery pass online or in person when you arrive. See the Parks Canada website for current rates. 

Lake Louise to Jasper Tours

• Banff or Lake Louise to Jasper: One-Way Sightseeing Tour : This tour encompasses a series of notable stops along the way, ensuring you experience the most remarkable highlights. The small group sizes allow for optimal interaction between the knowledgeable guide and passengers, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the region. The tour includes a fully narrated experience, ensuring you gain deep insights into the natural and cultural wonders encountered along the way. Included is the convenience of hotel pick-up in either Banff or Lake Louise, as well as drop-off in Jasper, adds to the overall ease and enjoyment of the journey. A delightful picnic lunch is also included.
• Lake Louise to Jasper One-Way Tour : This tour will transport you from the enchanting Lake Louise to the captivating destination of Jasper, unveiling the mesmerizing wilderness of western Alberta along the way. Guided by an expert and passionate guide, immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Banff and Jasper National Parks. Prepare to be awestruck as you make stops at renowned attractions. At the Columbia Icefield Centre, choose to embark on an exhilarating Glacier Adventure or marvel at the captivating Glacier Skywalk. A picnic lunch is included.
• Jasper to Lake Louise or Banff Along The Columbia Icefields : Sit back and relax as the tour provides a fully narrated experience, offering insightful commentary along the way. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pick-up from Jasper and a comfortable drop-off in Banff or Lake Louise. A highlight of the adventure awaits at the Columbia Icefields, where you’ll have the opportunity to embark on an exhilarating adventure on the legendary Athabasca Glacier.
• From Banff: Icefield Parkway Scenic Tour With Park Entry : This tour commences with a visit to the iconic Lake Louise, where you’ll have the opportunity to capture awe-inspiring photographs. This comprehensive tour ensures a seamless experience by providing convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off services, allowing you to relax and fully indulge in the captivating scenery. National Park entry fees are also included, eliminating any additional hassles.
• Banff to Jasper One Way Tour : This full-day one-way tour from Banff to Jasper is guided by a knowledgeable expert. Discover the untamed wilderness of Banff and Jasper National Parks as you visit renowned attractions including Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, Athabasca Falls, Lake Louise, and the awe-inspiring Weeping Wall. Furthermore, delve into the intriguing geology of the region at the informative Columbia Icefield Centre, gaining valuable insights into the captivating geological wonders that shape this remarkable landscape.

Lake Louise to Jasper Itinerary

Whether you seek outdoor adventures, serene landscapes, or simply a respite from the chaotic world, the route from Lake Louise to Jasper offers an abundance of wonders that will leave you spellbound. Keep reading below to discover the best stops from Lake Louise to Jasper (or Jasper to Lake Louise!)

1. Lake Louise

Lake Louise , your starting point, is a captivating gem that should not be missed on your Lake Louise to Jasper drive. This iconic alpine lake, embraced by the grandeur of Banff National Park, sets the stage for an unforgettable journey that lies ahead.

With its crystalline turquoise waters mirroring the surrounding towering peaks, this iconic alpine lake is a sight to behold. But there’s so much more to do than just admire the view!

For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Louise offers an array of thrilling activities. Strap on your hiking boots and explore the myriad of trails that wind through the surrounding mountains, providing breathtaking vistas. Some of my favourite hikes in the area are the famous Lake Agnes Tea House and the Big Beehive .

If you’re visiting during the winter, Lake Louise transforms into a winter wonderland. The frozen lake becomes a sprawling ice skating rink. While the Lake Louise Ski Resort offers world-class downhill skiing and snowboarding trails for adrenaline seekers.

2. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise stands as one of Canada’s most renowned and majestic hotels. Nestled on the shores of Lake Louise, this iconic hotel offers sweeping vistas of the picturesque lake.

I had the privilege of staying here for a few nights in 2022 in a lake view room that truly showcased the area’s natural beauty. While an overnight stay at this esteemed establishment may come with a significant price tag, you can still wander through the hotel’s lobby and public areas to soak in its opulence.

If you find yourself in need of a delightful treat, I wholeheartedly recommend their afternoon tea , or visiting the Deli for a cup of coffee and a croissant—truly some of the best I’ve ever tasted, even to this day!

3. Moraine Lake

No Lake Louise to Jasper road trip would be complete without a visit to the mesmerizing Moraine Lake. Tucked away in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, this pristine alpine lake is a true masterpiece of nature that will leave you in awe.

What sets Moraine Lake apart is its unparalleled serenity. While it has gained recognition as one of the most photographed lakes in the world, its remote location ensures a sense of tranquility that can be hard to find in popular tourist destinations.

The iconic Rockpile Trail offers an easy yet rewarding climb, treating you to panoramic vistas of the lake and surrounding mountains that will leave you speechless.

Other popular hikes in the area include Sentinel Pass & Larch Valley which are some of the best fall foliage hikes in Canada For the adventurous souls, consider exploring the lake by canoe.

Starting in 2023 , Parks Canada has changed how visitors access Moraine Lake which means driving directly to the lake is no longer permitted .

However, there are alternative ways to reach this stunning destination, particularly if you wish to witness its beauty at sunrise. One option is to opt for the services of the Moraine Lake Bus Company , the sole provider of sunrise shuttles to Moraine Lake .

The prices for these shuttles start at $35 per adult and $25 per child, with operating hours spanning from 4 am, arriving at Moraine Lake at 4.35 am, until 6.20 pm. Shuttle tickets can be reserved through their website .

Parks Canada also offers shuttle buses to Moraine Lake; however, it is important to note that these services commence at 6.30 am, missing the opportunity to catch the sunrise.

Alternatively, if you desire a more immersive experience, you can choose to stay at the remarkable Moraine Lake Lodge . Renowned for its exceptional views, this cabin is one of the finest in Banff National Park .

However, it is essential to keep in mind that the luxurious accommodations come with a substantial price tag, starting at approximately CAD$1,400 per night. While not a budget-friendly option, it offers unparalleled proximity and an enchanting stay amidst the beauty of Moraine Lake.

4. Herbert Lake

Just a short drive from Lake Louise, Herbert Lake is a hidden gem that should not be overlooked on your itinerary. This small, serene lake offers a peaceful respite amidst the stunning Canadian Rockies.

With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque mountain backdrop, Herbert Lake provides the perfect setting for breathtaking photographs. It’s an ideal spot for a quick picnic or a leisurely stroll along its peaceful shores.

Herbert Lake can be found immediately to your left as you enter the Icefields Parkway . If you drive too fast you may miss it.

5. Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint

Named after its resemblance to a crow’s foot, this glacier boasts multiple impressive ice formations cascading down the mountainside. As you gaze upon its glistening expanse, you can’t help but be captivated by the sheer magnitude and intricate details of this glacier.

Covering an area of approximately 1.5 square kilometres (0.6 square miles), The Crowfoot Glacier serves as a reminder of the ever-changing nature of our planet and the importance of preserving these natural wonders.

Over the years, the glacier has undergone significant retreat, altering its distinctive shape. As a result, it might require some effort to discern its original form. Nevertheless, witnessing a glacier is undeniably fascinating.

6. Bow Lake

Bow Lake, though small in size compared to other Canadian lakes , is a true gem of beauty. With its brilliant turquoise waters and the majestic Bow Glacier looming in the backdrop, Bow Lake offers a scene straight out of a postcard.

Although there is a designated pull-in area from the highway where you can catch a glimpse of Bow Lake and Bow Glacier, I highly recommend continuing to drive just a short distance further and parking directly at the lake.

The brief walk to the lake’s edge is exceptionally rewarding and can be accomplished in just a matter of minutes! The up-close experience is simply breathtaking, especially for photography enthusiasts like myself. In fact, Bow Lake has secured a spot on my list of the most picturesque locations in Banff .

Bow Lake promises to leave an indelible impression, making it an essential stop on your Lake Louise to Jasper journey.

7. Peyto Lake 

Peyto Lake , hailed as one of Canada’s most breathtaking lakes, unquestionably holds a prominent place on the itinerary of any road trip from Lake Louise to Jasper. Tucked away in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Peyto Lake is renowned for its striking, vibrant blue colour that appears almost otherworldly.

To truly appreciate the splendour of Peyto Lake, be sure to visit during the summer months when the lake is free from its icy winter blanket. What sets Peyto Lake apart is its remarkable accessibility, as you can drive almost directly to the viewpoint, requiring just a short 10-minute walk.

As you approach the viewing area, the panoramic vista that greets you is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The emerald forests that surround the lake give way to a vast expanse of shimmering turquoise waters, reflecting the towering peaks above.

It’s important to note that securing a parking space can be a test of patience. To avoid any inconvenience, it is advisable to arrive early and secure a spot.

8. Mistaya Canyon

Mistaya Canyon is frequently underestimated as a stop along the route from Lake Louise to Jasper, yet it unquestionably deserves your attention. Embarking on a brief 1km hike down to the canyon unveils breathtaking vistas of the mighty Mistaya River in all its roaring glory.

As you follow the short 1km trail that winds through the forest, you’ll soon find yourself standing on the edge of a dramatic gorge, carved over thousands of years by the rushing waters of the Mistaya River.

9. Waterfowl Lakes

Renowned as one of Banff’s premier photography hotspots , the mesmerizing Waterfowl Lakes will leave you in awe. Nestled beneath the majestic Mount Chephren, these pristine turquoise gems are a must-see on your Banff itinerary .

Due to limited parking space, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure your spot. You’ll approach the Upper Lake first which involves a 30-minute hike covering a distance of 1.9 kilometers and a gentle elevation gain of 34 meters. This area offers a plethora of hiking options, including the Lower Waterfowl Lake, Chephren Lake, and Cirque Lake.

The Lower Waterfowl Lake provides the most convenient accessibility as it sits right alongside the highway, allowing for effortless viewing. To catch a glimpse of this enchanting sight, simply look to your left and you’ll spot a small paved pull-out that leads to the lower Waterfowl Lake viewpoint.

10. Weeping Wall

As you continue your journey, make sure to make a quick stop at the next roadside viewpoint: the remarkable Weeping Wall. Look for a small pullover bay on your left and just across the road, you’ll be greeted by the magnificent sight of this colossal natural wonder.

The Weeping Wall stretches across a 300-meter (1,000 feet) cliff face in the Cirrus Mountain range, adorned with a network of slender water streams gracefully cascading down.

This enchanting roadside attraction showcases nature’s artistic display of cascading waterfalls pouring down the towering cliffs, resembling a shimmering curtain of tears.

During the summer months, the water flows abundantly, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. However, even in winter, the Weeping Wall retains its allure, as the streams transform into frozen crystals.

11. The Big Bend Lookout

The Big Bend viewpoint offers an unmissable glimpse of the surrounding mountainous landscape that envelopes the Parkway, accentuated by a dramatic bend in the road. It’s a must-visit spot on any Icefields Parkway itinerary, as you’ll naturally drive through it.

However, at the apex of this winding road, you’ll discover a captivating viewing area known as Big Hill. From here, you can look back and admire the remarkable stretch of the Icefields Parkway you just traversed, as it gracefully winds its way around the mountains and through the valley below.

This lookout point is really easy to miss if you don’t know it is there. It looks like every other pull out on the highway. However if you are using the Gypsy App, it will let you know when it is coming up and prompt you to pull over.

12. Columbia Icefield & Athabasca Glacier

The Columbia Icefields is the next essential stop on this epic Lake Louise to Jasper road trip itinerary, offering a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of one of North America’s largest icefields.

The Athabasca Glacier stands as the crowning jewel and the undeniable highlight of the Columbia Icefields. This massive expanse of ice, part of the larger Alberta Icefield, captivates visitors with its sheer size and pristine beauty.

As one of the most accessible glaciers in North America, the Athabasca Glacier offers a truly unique experience. One of the most popular ways to immerse yourself in the greatness of the glacier is by joining an Ice Explorer Tour .

Hop aboard one of these colossal all-terrain vehicles specially designed to navigate the rugged terrain. Expert guides will regale you with fascinating insights into the glacier’s formation, its constantly changing nature, and the environmental significance it holds.

Book this tour in advance as they do sell-out and it’s possible you’ll encounter al long wait for stand-by.

As you explore the Columbia Icefields, it’s worth noting the significance of the location. This is where the continental divide runs, separating the flow of water between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

Standing at this juncture, you’ll witness the awe-inspiring realization that the very water flowing beneath your feet makes its way to different corners of the continent. Isn’t that incredible?!

13. Sunwapta Falls

Located approximately 35 minutes along the captivating Icefields Parkway from the Columbia Icefields Discovery Center, you’ll discover the enchanting Sunwapta Falls.

A short and pleasant stroll from the parking lot will lead you to the falls, making this stop an ideal 10-20 minute detour.

While smaller in size compared to the upcoming Athabasca Falls, this waterfall is not to be overlooked. Witness the remarkable force of the water as it has meticulously carved unique rock formations in the canyon below, offering a mesmerizing sight from the bridge and viewpoint.

Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Sunwapta Falls during the winter months, as the frozen cascade transforms the surroundings into a magical winter wonderland, attracting visitors from far and wide.

For a serene wilderness retreat, consider staying at the Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge, nestled in the tranquility of this extraordinary natural setting.

14. Athabasca Falls

Located a mere 30 kilometers (19 miles) before reaching the charming town of Jasper, lies the awe-inspiring Athabasca Falls, a true gem in the Canadian Rockies.

A series of well-maintained paths and bridges allow you to explore various vantage points, providing unparalleled views of the falls from different angles.

Even more enchanting during the winter months, this stop on your Lake Louise to Jasper road trip remains open, offering a unique experience as the falls transform into a magical winter wonderland.

This is one of my favourite stops on this road trip. If you are wanting to check out the iconic photo spot of Athabasca Canyon, keep driving past the main entrance and you’ll encounter a bridge – the photo taken below of the canyon is taken from this bridge – the canyon will be on the right side.

15. Mount Edith Cavell

Just a short drive from the charming town of Jasper lies an awe-inspiring gem that should be at the top of your must-visit list in Canada. Named after a heroic World War I nurse, the Edith Cavell Mountain & Glacier showcases the raw beauty of nature’s icy wonders.

Visiting Edith Cavell Mountain and embarking on the Path of the Glacier hike is a true adventure that allows you to connect with the monumental forces of nature.

The hike itself is a moderate to challenging adventure, covering approximately 3.8 kilometers (2.4 miles) round trip. Along the way, you’ll be greeted by spellbinding vistas, vibrant alpine meadows, and the refreshing rush of glacial streams.

It’s important to note that the trail conditions can vary depending on the time of year. In the summer months, the Path of the Glacier hike offers a picturesque landscape dotted with wildflowers in full bloom. However, in the winter, the trail may be covered in snow, requiring appropriate gear and caution.

16. Valley of the Five Lakes

The Valley of the Five Lakes ranks among my top hiking experiences in Jasper National Park. Located just 6.5km from Jasper town, this is a moderate hike that is well-suited for families.

If you have the luxury of spending several nights in Jasper, I suggest reserving this adventure for another day, considering it can take up to four hours to complete.

As the parking lot for this hike tends to fill up quickly, it’s advisable to arrive as early in the morning as possible. Thankfully, the trailhead is located just a stone’s throw away from the parking lot, ensuring quick and easy access to the start of the hike.

As you step into this picturesque paradise, be prepared to be transported to a realm where nature’s palette is at its most vibrant. The valley derives its name from the stunning chain of five distinctively coloured lakes that dot its landscape, each possessing its own unique hue.

From the shimmering turquoise of the first lake to the deep emerald of the last, this natural masterpiece is a true feast for the eyes.

Welcome to your destination! And what an extraordinary place it is. Jasper truly stands as one of the most captivating regions in the Canadian Rockies.

Jasper offers a wide array of activities and attractions that cater to every adventurer’s desire. Explore the stunning landscapes of Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immerse yourself in the natural wonders that abound. Some of the top things to do in and around Jasper include:

• Explore Maligne Lake: Take a boat tour or rent a kayak to explore the stunning turquoise waters of Maligne Lake . Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Spirit Island, one of the most iconic and photographed locations in the Canadian Rockies.
• Hike the Skyline Trail: Embark on a multi-day hike along the famous Skyline Trail, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, alpine meadows, and abundant wildlife. This challenging trail is a must for avid hikers.
• Take the Jasper SkyTram: Ride the Jasper SkyTram, the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada, to reach the summit of Whistlers Mountain. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, valleys, and the town of Jasper.
• Soak in Miette Hot Springs: Indulge in a relaxing soak in the natural mineral-rich waters of Miette Hot Springs. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, these hot springs offer a rejuvenating experience after a day of outdoor adventures.
• Spot Wildlife in Jasper: With its diverse ecosystems, Jasper National Park is home to a wide array of wildlife. Keep an eye out for bears, elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and elusive wolves. Join a wildlife tour or explore the park’s scenic drives for the best chances of sightings.

Regardless of the season, you’ll discover that Jasper retains a delightful small-town charm and is refreshingly less crowded than its counterpart, Banff.

Where To Stay In Jasper

Despite its cozy size, Jasper offers a wide range of accommodation options. Personally, I find it most enjoyable to stay right in the heart of Jasper town, providing convenient access to everything.

• Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge : Nestled in a picturesque setting beside Lac Beauvert, this iconic luxury resort offers rustic elegance and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. With an array of amenities, including a golf course, spa, and multiple dining options, the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge provides a tranquil and indulgent retreat.
• Forest Park Hotel : Located in the heart of Jasper, this inviting hotel offers comfortable accommodations and a range of amenities, including a fitness center, indoor pool, and on-site dining. Its central location makes it convenient for exploring Jasper’s attractions and enjoying the town’s amenities.
• Pyramid Lake Resort : Situated on the shores of Pyramid Lake, this charming resort offers cozy chalet-style accommodations with stunning lake and mountain views. Guests can enjoy outdoor activities like canoeing, fishing, and hiking, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty surrounding them.
• Patricia Lake Bungalows: Tucked away in a peaceful forested area, Patricia Lake Bungalows offers cozy and well-equipped cabins overlooking Patricia Lake. It’s an ideal choice for nature lovers seeking a quiet and secluded retreat, with opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures right at your doorstep.
• Whistlers Inn : Located in the heart of Jasper town, Whistlers Inn offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to shops, restaurants, and local attractions. With its cozy pub, live entertainment, and warm hospitality, it provides a lively and convenient base for exploring Jasper.
• Tekarra Lodge : Situated along the banks of the Athabasca River, Tekarra Lodge offers charming cabins and chalets nestled amidst peaceful surroundings. The lodge provides a tranquil atmosphere, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy nature while being just a short drive away from Jasper’s main attractions.

How Long Is The Drive From Lake Louise to Jasper?

The drive from Lake Louise to Jasper via the Icefields Parkway is approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles) long. The duration of the drive can vary depending on several factors, including traffic, road conditions, and the number of stops you make along the way to enjoy the scenic viewpoints and attractions.

On average, the drive takes about 3 to 4 hours without stops. However, I highly recommend allocating more time for the journey to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes, take photos, and explore the points of interest along the route.

Important Things To Know For Driving From Lake Louise To Jasper

Cell service on the icefields parkway.

While embarking on your journey along the Icefields Parkway, it’s important to note that cell coverage can be limited throughout much of the route. As you enter the Parkway, it’s likely that you will lose cell service, making it challenging to make calls or send texts.

However, there are a couple of locations where you can access WiFi. At Saskatchewan Crossing and the Columbia Icefields Centre, you’ll have the opportunity to connect to WiFi.

These are great spots to take a break, check messages, and share your incredible experiences with friends and family. Just keep in mind that for most of the Icefields Parkway, you’ll be immersed in the breathtaking wilderness, enjoying the beauty of nature without the distraction of constant connectivity. Embrace the opportunity to disconnect and fully appreciate the stunning landscapes that surround you.

Gas Stations Between Lake Louise And Jasper

When traveling along the Icefields Parkway, it’s important to plan your fuel stops accordingly as gas stations are limited along the route. The major gas stations along the Parkway can be found at Lake Louise Village, Saskatchewan River Crossing, and Jasper townsite. These are the primary locations where you can refuel your vehicle.

Wildlife Along The Icefields Parkway

This iconic highway winds through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offering countless opportunities to spot fascinating creatures in their natural habitats. Keep your eyes peeled for the magnificent grizzly and black bears, elk, bighorn sheep, moose, deer and coyotes.

During my recent road trip along this highway I was able to spot many bighorn sheep, bears and elk. Jasper is also home to a small herd of Caribou and sightings are rare, so keep an eye out! Remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance and never feed or approach them.

Restrooms on the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper

Restrooms are strategically located at various points, including popular attractions, visitor centres, and campgrounds. You can find restrooms in Lake Louise, Saskatchewan River Crossing, Columbia Icefields Centre (closed in winter) and Jasper town.

Outhouse style restrooms are available at most campgrounds a rest stops along the way.

Winter driving from Lake Louise to Jasper

Driving the Icefields Parkway in winter offers a unique and breathtaking experience, but it requires extra caution and preparation. The parkway, stretching between Lake Louise and Jasper, showcases stunning winter landscapes, snow-covered peaks, and frozen waterfalls.

However, winter conditions can be challenging, with snow, ice, and reduced visibility. It is crucial to have winter tires, and be equipped with emergency supplies such as blankets, extra food, and water.

The road may be periodically closed for snow clearing or avalanche control, so it’s essential to check weather and road conditions before setting out.

Additionally, driving at a slower pace and maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles is recommended. Despite the potential challenges, the tranquility and magical winter scenery make the Icefields Parkway a remarkable journey for those willing to embrace the beauty of the season.

Lake Louise To Jasper: FAQ

Can i complete the lake louise to jasper drive in a day.

Yes, the Lake Louise to Jasper drive can be completed in a day. However, to fully appreciate the stunning scenery and attractions along the route, it is recommended to take at least one or two days for the journey, allowing time for stops and exploration.

How long does it take to drive from Lake Louise to Jasper?

The driving distance from Lake Louise to Jasper is approximately 230 kilometers (143 miles), and the drive typically takes around 3-4 hours without stops. However, it is recommended to allocate extra time for stops at viewpoints, hikes, and attractions along the way.

Are there any guided tours available for the Lake Louise to Jasper drive?

Yes, there are guided tours available for the Lake Louise to Jasper drive. These tours provide informative commentary, organized stops, and the convenience of transportation. However, if you prefer a more flexible and independent experience, self-driving allows you to set your own pace and itinerary.

Can I see wildlife during the drive?

Yes, wildlife sightings are common along the Lake Louise to Jasper drive. Keep an eye out for animals such as elk, deer, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, black bears, and occasionally grizzly bears. Remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance and never feed or approach them.

What is the best time to do the Lake Louise to Jasper drive?

The Lake Louise to Jasper drive can be enjoyed year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm. The summer months (June to September) provide the best weather for road tripping and access to hiking trails. However, the fall colours in September and the snow-covered landscapes in winter are also captivating.

Are there any facilities or services along the route?

There are several amenities along the Lake Louise to Jasper drive, including gas stations, rest areas, picnic spots, and campgrounds. The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre and the town of Jasper offer additional visitor services such as food, accommodations, and information centres.

Is the Lake Louise to Jasper drive suitable for RVs or campervans?

Yes, the Lake Louise to Jasper drive can be done with an RV or campervan. However, it is important to be aware of the size restrictions at certain viewpoints and parking areas. It is also advisable to check road conditions and plan for overnight camping or RV parks in advance.

How many days should you spend in Jasper?

The number of days you should spend in Jasper depends on your travel preferences and the activities you plan to do. However, to fully experience the highlights of Jasper National Park and its surroundings, it is recommended to spend at least 2 to 3 days in the area.

There are some truly stunning places in Jasper that you definitely have to experience. In my opinion, 4 days in Jasper is the perfect amount of time to see the best highlights without rushing.

What famous scenic drive links Banff and Jasper?

The famous scenic drive that links Banff and Jasper is the Icefields Parkway.

Final Thoughts: Lake Louise to Jasper Road Trip

The scenic journey from Lake Louise to Jasper via the magnificent Icefields Parkway is an extraordinary adventure that should not be missed. This renowned route showcases some of the most breathtaking attractions, but it is just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the wonders that await you.

If you have limited time, these must-see attractions are a priority on your itinerary. However, for those fortunate enough to have a few extra days, it is highly recommended to extend your stay and immerse yourself in the abundant hiking trails and natural wonders that this region offers. I hope that this post has ignited your wanderlust and provided valuable insights to help you plan your journey.

More Canadian Rockies Guides!

Looking to explore more of the Canadian Rockies? Check out these other detailed travel guides:

• Best Banff Cabin Rentals
• Best Hotels in Banff with waterslides
• 4 Days in Banff Itinerary
• Best Banff Photography Spots
• Guide to Canoeing Lake Louise
• Maligne Lake Cruise & Spirit Island
• Free Things to do in Banff National Park
• Best Hikes in Banff
• Big Beehive Hike in Banff
• Valley of the Five Lakes Hike Jasper
• Visiting Banff without a Car
• 4 Days in Jasper National Park

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19 BEST Stops Between Lake Louise to Jasper

The Icefields Parkway, Hwy 93, connects Lake Louise to Jasper via a gorgeous drive. It’s easily one of the best road trips you can take worldwide and draws visitors from across the globe to take in its stunning scenery. I have not encountered a road as breathtaking as the Icefields Parkway, and I love any opportunity to drive between Jasper and Lake Louise – it just never gets old!

Before embarking on this journey, it’s important to note that the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper (or Jasper to Lake Louise) is on no ordinary road, and you should be aware of plenty of stops along the way!

Is the Icefields Parkway the Only Way to Get From Lake Louise to Jasper?

In short, the Icefields Parkway is the only way to quickly get between Lake Louise and Jasper. There is no flight option or airport in Banff, Lake Louise, or Jasper.

If you want to take a long way around, it’s possible to drive from Lake Louise to Golden, onto Kamloops, and then hop onto Highway 5 to Valemount and Jasper. Or, if you are already in Calgary , you can drive from Calgary to Edmonton to Jasper.

Both of these drives would be significantly longer and less scenic, and as a tourist, there is no need to drive these routes.

Can You Drive from Lake Louise to Jasper in the Winter?

Highway 93N (the road connecting Jasper to Lake Louise) is open in the winter, except for severe snowstorms when Parks Canada closes the road.

Although it is open, I strongly recommend avoiding it during winter unless you have experience driving in snowy conditions and have researched the current winter conditions.

If there has been heavy snowfall recently, it’s essential to check the road conditions and ensure that your vehicle is a sturdy 4×4 at the very least. Winter tires are mandatory on the Icefields Parkway from November 1st to April 1st. Equipping your vehicle with winter tires and an emergency kit is advisable, especially if you’re driving in Alberta during winter. Just because you rented a car in Calgary in the winter does not mean the car comes with winter tires. Winter conditions can last from late October/early November to April; even September can bring snow to the Rockies.

It’s important to note that the Icefields Parkway is not plowed to the same extent as other roads in Alberta and is typically not salted. There’s no cell phone reception in the area, and winter temperatures in Alberta can drop drastically. Being stranded without proper preparation could be a matter of life and death. Since winter traffic is low compared to summer, it could take a while for a passerby to come to your aid. I may seem like I’m being dramatic, but I’m just trying to prepare you for the worst in case it happens.

If you decide to tackle this as a winter drive, it’s essential to note that the only gas station, the Saskatchewan River Crossing, is closed during winter. Meaning it’s necessary to start your journey on the Icefields Parkway with a full gas tank. Additionally, no services are available on the Icefields Parkway during winter, so it’s essential to pack enough snacks!

Below are the best stops on the Lake Louise to Jasper drive. They are going in order as from Lake Louise to Jasper, but can be reversed to fit a Jasper to Lake Louise drive if starting from Jasper.

Best Stops on the Lake Louise to Jasper Drive

Herbert lake.

Herbert Lake is a small Banff lake just off the Icefields Parkway, not long after you pass the park gates leaving the TransCanada highway. It’s just 7km away from Lake Louise on the left-hand side of the road. Still, many people skip right by Herbert Lake in a rush to get to Jasper. Its location and the fact that it’s not considered a highlight in Banff means the lake remains quiet throughout the summer.

However, Herbert Lake is gorgeous and has some phenomenal mountain views from its waters. A picnic area right along the lake shores makes putting a SUP or kayak in the water easy.

While paddling around, keep an eye out as there is a diving board here; if you’re brave enough to dip in the frigid waters, make sure you pick a warm day in the summer.

Hector Lake

Hector Lake is one of the best lakes in Banff and is an excellent option if you are looking for a short hike to enjoy on the way from Lake Louise to Jasper. Hector Lake doesn’t get visited as much as many other lakes on the Icefields Parkway simply because you have to hike 2.2 km (one way) to reach it.

This deters many people, but in fact, it’s very short and well worth it to see this glacial-fed lake. If you don’t want to hike to it, there’s a pullover viewpoint with partially obstructed views. Hector Lake is straightforward to miss if you’re not paying attention to the lookout or the trail access, and people always drive past it.

Bow Lake is another stunner that’s a brilliant aquamarine color on a summer day. You’ll pass about 30 minutes after you leave Lake Louise, and you can’t miss it on your left hand side. The scale of Bow Lake is impressive as it’s one of the largest in the park and provides fantastic views of Crowfoot Peak.

Although you haven’t made it far on your drive yet, Bow Lake is an excellent place for a picnic, canoe (bring your own), or hiking to incredible Bow Glacier Falls, one of our favorite waterfalls in Alberta.

From the shore, you have terrific views of the Bow Glacier that feeds the lake in the summer months and is the source of the Bow River. That same river is a notable feature throughout much of the park moving through Banff, Canmore , and onto Calgary and beyond before ending in Southern Alberta as it joins the Saskatchewan River.

If you hit Bow Lake in the winter, it will indeed be frozen, but you can still walk out onto the small bridge there – just a short walk from the parking area.

Optional Hike: Bow Glacier Falls

If you’ve ever wondered about the water source of Bow Lake in Banff, the answer is just a short hike away. The water originates from the Bow Glacier and Wapta Icefield. It tumbles down Bow Glacier Falls before emptying into Bow Lake and continuing down the Bow River, through Banff and Canmore, and onto Calgary – wow, that is a lot of “Bows” in one paragraph!

To get a closer look at Bow Glacier Falls, take the relatively easy hike past the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge on the right side of Bow Lake. Follow the trail around the lake, ascend the stairs, and pass through a meadow. This hike is an enjoyable activity during the summer and provides an excellent opportunity for drivers on Icefield Parkway to stretch their legs.

Although some websites suggest that Bow Glacier Falls can be viewed from Bow Lake, the falls are located quite far away, and the view is obstructed. It is highly recommended to undertake the hike, which typically takes 2-4 hours and covers a distance of 8.7 km, with an elevation gain of 266 meters.

Peyto Lake is another glacier-fed lake in Banff. Peyto Lake is likely the third most famous lake in Banff, mainly due to its distinctive shape of a fox, strikingly blue water, and the easily accessible scenic overlook near the parking area.

To make the experience even more inclusive, there is a dedicated section accessible for people with disabilities, providing everyone with the opportunity to take in the breathtaking view.

Waterfowl Lakes

The Waterfowl Lakes, which comprise two serene bodies of water within the park, attract far fewer visitors than other Banff highlights. Nevertheless, they are still among Alberta’s most beautiful lakes. Both glacial in origin, these lakes exhibit the iconic blue color that appears particularly vibrant on sunny days.

Although you can stop at the Saskatchewan River Crossing not much further, we always prefer to stop at Waterfowl Lakes for a picnic. There are picnic benches here as a campground is nearby.

Optional Hike: Chephren Lake

Located at the base of Mount Chephren, Chephren Lake is a lake that requires a short hike to reach. If you are at Waterfowl Lakes and want a bit of movement, you can start your trek to Chephren Lake here.

If you decide to make the journey, you’ll be well rewarded, as very few visitors to the park make it back this way. It’s not commonly listed as one of the best things to do in Banff, and many people miss this stunner.

Chephren Lake makes for a straightforward couple-hour adventure with a 7.7 km (return) hike with an elevation gain of 241 meters. Once you reach the lake, you’ll be in for a surprise. Here you’ll find a bright blue lake without the crowds at Lake Louise . We recommend allowing at least 2-3 hours to enjoy this hike and take in the beauty of Chephren Lake.

Mistaya Canyon

Mistaya Canyon is a well-liked destination on the Icefields Parkway and a popular stop from Lake Louise to Jasper.

A quick half-kilometer hike down an easy trail will take you to a well-maintained fenced bridge where you can take in the breathtaking sight of the powerful water churning through the rocks beneath your feet. Formed by the Mistaya River, tourists are typically in awe of this unique picture with the area’s curvy canyon walls.

If you visit during peak summer, parking at the pullout area on the west side of the Parkway is limited, so it can get crowded during the peak summer months.

Detour Option: Abraham Lake

Abraham Lake is familiar to many, even if they have never been. That’s because during the winter, this man-made lake in David Thompson Country is famous for its abundant methane ice bubbles trapped in the crystal-clear ice. Viral photos of the ice bubbles pop up all over Instagram and social media. If you have ever seen these photos and are wondering where they are, it’s likely Abraham Lake. (Though this ice bubble phenomenon happens on other lakes in Banff and around the world)

The lake is not just a great winter spot, though; it’s beautiful to head to in the summer and enjoy hiking, kayaking, and camping on Abraham Lake.

You’ll need to get off the Icefields Parkway to reach Abraham Lake. When you get to Saskatchewan River Crossing, about halfway between Lake Louise and Jasper, you can take a right onto David Thompson Highway. You’ll drive about 30 km before reaching Preachers Point, a popular place to enjoy Abraham Lake.

Optional Hike: Parker Ridge Hike

Parker Ridge is one of the best hikes along the Icefields Parkway, and if you have an extra 2-3 hours to spare when driving between Lake Louise and Jasper, we highly recommend stopping for this hike.

Although I wasn’t sure what to expect at the start of the hike, the gradual 2.5 km incline to the ridge proved to be easy and well-marked, with no technical or scrambling involved. This makes it an excellent walk for people of all ages and skill levels, from young couples to families with children and dogs.

Despite its ease, the view from the ridge is absolutely spectacular, with stunning vistas of the impressive Saskatchewan Glacier and a beautiful blue glacier lake. We were so taken with the view that we spent 30 minutes taking photos and basking in the sunshine.

However, it does get quite windy at the top, so be sure to bring a jacket to stay warm. Trust me, the fantastic views make the hike well worth the effort!

Optional Stay: Glacier View Lodge

Only open in the summer, and one of the finest accommodations on the Icefields Parkway is the Glacier View Lodge . Located at the Columbia Icefields Center within Jasper National Park, this hotel is among the few lodging options available between Lake Louise and Jasper.

If waking up to breathtaking views of Athabasca Glacier is on your wishlist, the Glacier View Lodge is an ideal pick, despite being far from Jasper and Downtown Banff. Before booking your stay, review its location on our map below, as it’s pretty removed from anything.

Optional Paid Activities

Athabasca glacier adventure tour.

The Athabasca Glacier is an enormous protrusion of ice that forms part of the vast Columbia Icefield. It is regarded as one of the most accessible glaciers in North America, and the Athabasca Glacier Adventure Tour provides a unique opportunity for visitors to marvel at this remarkable natural wonder up close.

For many visitors, the Columbia Icefields Discovery Center is the entryway to this extraordinary attraction, with its interactive exhibits and tours at the meeting point of Jasper and Banff. At the Columbia Icefields Discovery Center, you can book a time that takes you to the foot of the glacier and lets you walk right onto it.

Jasper Skywalk

The Glacier Skywalk allows visitors to venture onto a cliff-edge walk and admire the surrounding glaciers while taking in stunning views of the Sunwapta Valley.

While the Columbia Icefield Skywalk offers a glimpse of wildlife, waterfalls, and fossils, it’s a tourist activity suitable for families and those who may not want to hike much in the Rockies. You can enjoy a similar experience for free by taking a beautiful hike in Banff or Jasper National Park.

It’s important to note that you cannot simply stop by the Jasper Skywalk and start the experience there. Instead, you must reserve tickets at the Glacier Discovery Center, where you can park and take a bus to reach the Skywalk.

Tangle Creek Falls

Just after you pass the Skywalk, a small parking area will be on your left, and you’ll see a waterfall on the right-hand side. Usually, a few people leave their cars here to view Tangle Creek Falls.

It may not be the most awe-inspiring waterfall on the Icefields Parkway, but it’s worth a quick stop to admire it on your drive between Lake Louise and Jasper!

Sunwapta Falls

Sunwapta Falls is a must-visit destination on the Icefields Parkway that is easily accessible for all. It comprises upper and lower falls that are fed by the Athabasca Glacier.

While the upper falls are more crowded, the lower falls are still accessible via a 1.3 km hike and are worth the trek for an exceptional experience. The upper and lower falls are breathtaking and can be visited year-round in summer or winter.

Athabasca Falls

Athabasca Falls , located about 20 miles south of Jasper town, is a must-see attraction in Jasper National Park and one of your last significant stops on the drive between Lake Louise and Jasper. Despite not being a giant waterfall, its dramatic and majestic beauty makes it a popular destination for visitors.

The waterfall drops about 75 feet and is fed by the Athabasca Glacier. The volume of water that rushes over the edge is very high, making the upper Athabasca River roar, especially during the height of the thaw during the late spring months.

Plenty of hiking trails leading to viewing areas offer breathtaking views of the river and falls. However, it is crucial not to get too close to take a good picture, as the ground and rocks can be treacherous and slippery. Falling into the frigid water and rocky canyon would not end well.

Horseshoe Lake

Horseshoe Lake is just a short drive past Athabasca Falls along the Icefields Parkway, but a beautiful stop when driving from Lake Louise to Jasper. It’s a wonderful local lake that many visitors are unaware of, but it’s well worth stopping! The lake is massive and forms none other than a horseshoe shape, and enclosed by cliffs where you can jump into the frigid Canadian waters.

There are numerous jump points, with the highest height rumored to reach 80 feet. Always make sure to check your landing and make sure it’s safe before jumping! Besides cliff jumping, you can enjoy a paddle on this beautiful lake in the summer.

Optional Hike: Valley of Five Lakes

Located just before reaching Downtown Jasper along Highway 93, the Valley of Five Lakes is one of Jasper’s most popular and classic hikes . The well-developed and relatively flat trail features, you guessed it, five stunning lakes with varying shades of blue and green.

This offers hikers a picturesque experience that is both easy and enjoyable. It’s the perfect hike for families who want the views without much elevation gain!

Woohoo! You have made it to Jasper, where we recommend you spend a few days. Some of the best things to do are drive Maligne Lake Road, where you’ll pass Medicine Lake and enjoy Maligne Lake .

In the summer, you can also take a boat cruise out to Spirit Island! Other fun things to do are walk around Maligne Canyon, enjoy the views from the Jasper Skytram, and canoe on Pyramid Lake all before having a meal at a fantastic Jasper Restaurant!

Lake Louise to Jasper FAQ

Where Can I fill up?

To properly prepare for a drive along the Icefields Parkway, it’s important to note the limited number of gas stations available. If you’re traveling from Lake Louise, it’s recommended to fill up at the village before entering the Parkway, where a convenient Petro Canada station offers snacks.

If you’re driving from Jasper to Lake Louise, fill up in town beforehand. Saskatchewan River Crossing, located at the turn-off for Nordegg , is your only option for refueling while en route, but fuel and snack prices are higher than average.

It’s important to note that the Saskatchewan River Crossing is closed during winter months, leaving no other opportunities for refueling along the Icefields Parkway.

Is There a Bus from Lake Louise to Jasper?

 If you don’t feel like driving the Parkway or would rather ride as a passenger to watch out the window, tour operators can guide you from Jasper to Banff or vice versa. Brewster Express, SunDog Tours, and Discover Banff Tours run bus services.

Is There a Tour I Can Take?

• Banff Tours  has luxury sedans, SUVs, sprinter vans, and even a mini coach that can fit up to 24 people!
• Icefields Parkway by Tour :   Get Your Guide offers tours between Banff and Lake Louise to Jasper.

Is There a Train From Lake Louise to Jasper?

There is no train connecting Lake Louise to Jasper.

Can I Ride a Motorbike?

You can ride a motorcycle on the Icefields Parkway. You can also bike it if you have a road bike and love long bike trips! You can book a motorcycle tour if you don’t have a motorbike!

Do I Need a Parks Canada Pass?

A Parks Canada Pass is necessary to drive between Lake Louise and Jasper. You likely already have a pass if you have been in Banff for a few days. If not, you can purchase one right after leaving Lake Louise at the park gates (before Herbert Lake).

A Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which gets you entrance to all Parks Canada destinations for a year, is only $151.25 for a family. Day passes are $11.00 per person, so depending on how many days you stay in Canada, you may want to consider the Discovery Pass.

You will also need a Parks Canada pass for visiting Jasper and Banff, so depending on how long your Banff itinerary is, it’s likely worth it to buy the Discovery Pass.

Is There Wildlife Along the Drive?

There are bears, mountain goats, sheep, elk, coyotes, and everything. If you get lucky, you may see one of these majestic creatures while driving. If you do, don’t get out of the car, and give the animal its space. Don’t create traffic. Slow down and keep driving; please don’t stop for a long time or chase the animal for a photo.

Is There Cell Coverage?

Cell phone coverage is limited. If you’re traveling from Lake Louise, you will likely lose signal after passing Herbert Lake, while if you’re driving from Jasper, you can expect to have a signal until just after the Valley of the Lakes Trailhead.

There are a few spots along the Parkway where you can use your phone for calls and emails if necessary, but you need to stop and pull over to make those happen. The Saskatchewan River Crossing and Columbia Icefields Center usually have a signal, but it’s important to note that communications are turned off during the winter months.

How Long Does it Take to Drive From Lake Louise to Jasper?

If you drove the route straight without stops, it would take three hours. However, considering you are looking at an article about the best stops between Lake Louise and Jasper, I’m guessing you want to stop and enjoy. I would plan for the Lake Louise to Jasper drive to take you the entire day, especially if you enjoy all these epic stops.

Is Jasper or Banff Better?

This tricky question cannot be answered in just a sentence. So we recommend you read our entire article, breaking down the pros and cons of each.

What is the Total Distance?

From Lake Louise village to Downtown Jasper, the route is 233 km

How Many Days Do I Need in Banff and Jasper?

I would suggest at least spending seven days in the Canadian Rockies, though you will 100% leave wanting more. If you have the time and budget, consider a two-week trip to the area. This will give you ample time to explore Banff, Canmore, Jasper, Yoho , and more! However, we have lived here for years and still feel we have a lifetime of exploring left to do in the Rockies.

What is the Speed Limit?

The speed limit on the Icefields Parkway is 90 kilometers per hour in most areas. Though keep in mind this is the limit – and not a target. In the winter, it’s best to drive slower than this to avoid potential accidents.

In the summer, it’s still best to drive slower than this, not only because of wildlife on the road, but to allow you to take it all in at a slower pace.

Must Visit Stops from Jasper to Lake Louise Map

Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies

• Tours (New in 2024): The Banff Blog is partnering with one of the leading tour companies in Western Canada so readers can experience the magic of the Rockies with other travelers – without having to think about a thing. See all our 2024 tour offerings here!
• Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
• Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car : The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service connecting you from the Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Banff or Canmore.
• Get Around : We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. Or embark on an epic campervan trip. We like to compare prices on Motorhome Republic and Outdoorsy .
• Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going to watch for cheap airfare deals!
• Hop On, Hop Off : This tour is taking Banff by storm. It’s exactly what it sounds like, hop on and off a bus bound for all the best attractions at your own pace!

About Natasha

Natasha calls Canmore, Alberta home. After traveling across seven continents and 90 countries with Cameron, she settled down in the stunning Canadian Rockies. She loves to help others travel and make their planning easier. She is a winter enthusiast and loves to snowboard, ice skate, and snowshoe and enjoy all the fantastic summer opportunities in Banff like hiking, scrambling, and biking. You can find her in the mountains or enjoying a coffee by the river. Learn more on the about us page! If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

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The Ultimate Banff to Jasper Road Trip: 7 Day Itinerary for Alberta’s Top National Parks

Nick kembel.

• Last Modified December 14, 2021
• First Published on October 16, 2021

Post Summary: Banff to Jasper Road Trip

Banff National Park is Canada’s first and most popular national park. Adjoining Jasper National Park is every bit as beautiful and with a less touristy vibe. Connecting the two is the Icefields Parkway. Dotted with turquoise lakes and considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world, it is begging to be road tripped.

This Banff to Jasper road trip itinerary is tailor-made for anyone who has a full week off and wants to experience the best that these two Canadian Rockies national parks have to offer.

Banff & Jasper Road Trip Route Options

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This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you! Read the full disclosure policy here

Getting to Jasper and Banff National Parks

Jasper is a 3.5-hour drive from Edmonton, the provincial capital of Alberta, while Banff is a 1-hour drive from Calgary, the largest city in Alberta.

Because Calgary is the closer of the two major Alberta cities to the mountains, it only makes sense to start your trip there, unless you happen to live elsewhere in Alberta or neighboring British Columbia.

If Vancouver looks close on the map, well, note that it is an 8.5- or 10.5-hour drive from Vancouver to Jasper or Banff, respectively.

Coming in from elsewhere in Canada or the US, flying into Calgary’s international airport, and renting a car there is ideal unless you have the time to add several days’ worth of driving to your trip.

Because there is only one highway connecting Jasper and Banff National Parks, there is only one route option for this trip. However, once you reach Jasper, you’ll have three different options for the final travel day.

Option 1: Finish in Edmonton

From Jasper, the shortest option is to take the Yellowhead Highway through to Edmonton. If you have the extra time, there are loads of things to do in Edmonton to justify spending a few days there.

However, if you need to get back to Calgary for a flight or because you live there, this route option will actually be the longest one. Also, keep in mind that it can cost quite a bit more to rent a car in one city and drop it off in another.

Option 2: Backtrack to Calgary

The shortest route from Jasper back to Calgary is actually the same way you came. If you don’t mind driving back down through Jasper and Banff again, it will only take five hours for the return journey.

By choosing this route, you can make any stops that perhaps you missed on the way up.

Option 3: Return to Calgary via Nordegg and the Cowboy Trail

A final option for returning to Calgary takes a little longer than option 2, but allows you to explore different parts of Alberta on the way back.

This option involves returning down the Icefields Parkway through Jasper National Park, but then turning east onto the David Thompson Highway through the beautiful Nordegg region.

Reaching Highway 22, the Cowboy Trail, you then drive south toward Calgary through Alberta ranchland, with the Rocky Mountains visible in the background the whole way.

For this trip, get whatever vehicle is best suited to you and your group. The entire highway is fully paved, and there are so many sections or even side trips requiring 4×4 capability. I book most of my rental cars through RentalCars.com . They have a great selection of rental cars from most major agencies and the best prices – check prices here .

It is important to note, however, that if you plan to do this road trip in winter, conditions can vary wildly. While the Trans-Canada and Yellowhead highways tend to be fine, the Icefields Parkway through the mountains can become dangerously slippery. In rare cases, it can even be closed due to avalanche or blizzard.

For these reasons, it is essential to get a vehicle that has winter tires. It is also a good idea to prepare emergency supplies just in case, and familiarize yourself with your car’s emergency features.

>>> Book your rental car with RentalCars.com

This road trip is possible any time of the year, and each season comes with ups and downs. All things considered, June and September are probably the best months.

• Popular stops like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake can become so swamped with people that they’ll close the access roads, and you can’t even get in unless you take the public shuttle.
• October and November are less inspiring times to visit, though. The autumn colors are past, but the snowy landscape has yet to arrive. It’s too late for summer activities, but too early for winter ones. One plus is the lack of crowds.
• Winter – Hello ski season! And showshoeing, skating, cross-country skiing, dog-sledding, and so on. Doing this road trip in winter is more of an adventure. The whole region becomes a winter wonderland, but a little more preparation (and careful driving) is needed. And despite the ski season, the crowds are still much tamer than in summer.
• Spring – Winter lasts longer in the mountains than elsewhere, so spring doesn’t actually come until May and June, and even then can still be quite chilly. By June, wildflowers start growing in the mountains, making this a lovely month to visit before the onslaught of tourists in July.

Where to Stay on a Banff to Jasper Road Trip?

In both Banff and Jasper National Parks, accommodations are mostly limited to Banff and Jasper townsites along with a few more at Lake Louise in Banff National Park. To maximize your adventure time, here is my suggested accommodation schedule for this itinerary:

• Night 1: Canmore (optional)
• Nights 2,3,4: Banff townsite
• Night 5: Lake Louise
• Nights 6, 7, 8: Jasper townsite

Canmore Camping

If you are planning on camping during your Banff to Jasper Road Trip, skip spending the night in Canmore and plan to camp in Banff for 4 nights.

Canmore Hotels

• Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn  – Canmore Rocky Mountain Inn is a budget friendly modern hotel. Rooms from $57/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hote l s.com .
• A Bear and Bison Inn  – A Bear and Bison Inn is a comfortable guest house located in Canmore. Rooms from $137/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .
• The Malcolm Hotel by CLIQUE   – The Malcolm is midrange mountain hotel with outdoor pools.  Rooms from $189/night;  book on Hotels.com .

Canmore Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Mountain View Retreat – Mountain View Retreat has mountain views and is a 1 BR apartment that sleeps 4.  Rooms from $113/night; book on VRBO .
• Penthouse at Blackstone – The Penthouse is a luxuray top floor apartment that sleeps 6.  Rooms from $229/night; book on VRBO .
• Townhouse with Panorama Views – This townhouse sleeps 12 and has wraparound mountain views.  Rooms from $113/night; book on VRBO .

Banff Camping

There are 2,462 campsites located within 14 campgrounds in Banff National Park. There are spaced out around the park. For this Banff to Jasper Itinerary, it is recommended to camp in Two Jack or Tunnel Mountain.

Banff Hotels

• Fairmont Banff Springs  – Banff Springs hotel is a historic National Park Lodge that is well worth the splurge.  Rooms from $347/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .
• Rundlestone Lodge  – The Rundlestone Lodge is a high-end budget friendly hotel option. Rooms from $83/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .
• Peaks Hotel and Suites  – Peaks Hotel and Suites is a modern boutique hotel in Banff.  Rooms from $137/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .

Banff Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Cozy Rockies Escape – This cozy rental sleeps 4.  Rooms from $184/night; book on VRBO .
• Banff Mountain Suite – The Mountain suite is a perfect getaway options that sleeps 4.  Rooms from $258/night; book on VRBO .
• Penthouse Banff Views – This penthouse sleeps 8 and comes with views of Banff.  Rooms from $403/night; book on VRBO .

Lake Louise Camping

Being able to jumpstart your day at Lake Louise is totally worth setting up for 1 night of camping at the Lake Louise Campgrounds.

Lake Louise Hotels

• Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise  – Chateau Lake Louise is THE HOTEL in the Banff/Jasper area. This hotel sits on Lake Louise and is amazing.  Rooms from $274/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com
• Lake Louise Inn  – The Lake Louise Inn is a budget friendly option near Lake Louise.  Rooms from $67/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .

Lake Louise Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Cozy Room at Lake Louise – This cozy room is provides shuttle access to the lakes and sleeps 3.  Rooms from $101/night; book on VRBO .
• Cozy Lake Louise Retreat – This apartment retreat sleeps 7 .  Rooms from $358/night; book on VRBO .

Jasper Camping

There are 10 different campgrounds in Jasper National Park. You can choose any campground for this Jasper to Banff Road Trip.

Jasper Hotels

• Mount Robson Inn  – Mount Robson Inn is a quaint budget friendly option. Rooms from $101/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .
• Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge  – Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a luxury hotel located in Jasper.  Rooms from $250/night;  book on Booking.com  or  Hotels.com .

Jasper Airbnbs and Vacation Rentals

• Downtown Jasper Suite – The Downtown Jasper Suite sleeps 4 and is located in downtown Jasper.  Rooms from $130/night; book on VRBO .
• Bear’s Den – The apartment sleeps 4 offers mountain views.  Rooms from $202/night; book on VRBO .
• Executive Mountain Chalet – The Mountain Chalet is a private Chalet located on the edge of the park.  Rooms from $726/night; book on VRBO .
• Parks Canada Discovery Pass – The Park Canada Discovery Pass is the annual pass for the Canadian National Parks. The annual pass is the same price as seven days of daily pass. You can buy this upon arrival.
• Kananaskis Conservation Pass – Kananaskis Conservation Pass is a $15 pass that is needed for the recommend hikes in Canmore.
• Refillable Water Bottles – Help reduce litter in the parks and bringing a refillable water bottle with you. Here are my favorite water bottles >>> National Park map water bottle >>> Hydro Flask >>> Nalgene Bottle
• Hydration Bladder – For longer hikes, a hydration bladder is the best way carry water. >>> Buy a hydration reservoir
• Fruit:   Pick hard fruits such as apples or pears.  These hold-up in the heat and in packs without getting squished to mush. Another option is freeze-dried fruit. Freeze-dried strawberries are the BOMB.  They are crunchy, sweet and the best part is they are lightweight and yummy.  These are my new favorite trail snack.
• Vegetables: Cucumbers and carrots hold up well during hiking and in a hot car.
• Granola Bars:   Take your favorite non-coated in chocolate granola bars.  Anything coated in chocolate will melt and be a sticky mess.  My favorite is a selection of Cliff Bars . They are great even when squished.
• Sunscreen – Even in the mountains, sunscreen is important. While Banff doesn’t have coral reef’s, it is recommend to use reef-friendly sunscreen help protect the park’s freshwater ecosystems. >>> My favorite sunscreen.
• Lip balm – Just like our skin, our lips need protections too. >>> Check out my favorite Sunscreen Lip Balm
• Sunglasses – Similar to sunscreen, you need a good pair of polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun. >>> Buy Polarized Sunglasses
• Hat – A hat can keep the sun off your face and neck and help minimize the need for sunscreen while on the trail. >>> Buy a wide-brimmed hat
• First aid kit – As with any outdoor adventure, accidents happen. It is better to be prepared and have a compact first-aid kit ready to help with any accidents. >>> Buy a Solo First Aid Kit >>> Buy Mulit-person First Aid Kit
• Learn more about hiking headlamps .
• Shoes – Shoes are probably the most important piece of gear to any hiker. Hiking shoes should be seen as an investment. On the trail, your feet are your transportation and a solid pair of hiking shoes help support your feet and can prevent injury. >>> Pick out a quality hiking shoe. >>> Buy quality hiking socks.
• Hiking Day Pack – I highly recommend getting a dayback that is designed for outdoor use since these packs come with handy pockets and straps. My 40 L day pack has a pocket for my water bladder and a clip to hold the water line in place. >>> Buy my REI Women’s Day Pack >>> Buy REI Men’s Day Pack
• National Park Obsessed Shirt – Share your love of the National Parks and support National Park Obsessed with a National Park Obsessed T-Shirt. >>> Get your National Park t-shirts

How to Spend 7 Days in Banff & Jasper National Park?

Here is the basic itinerary for this road trip, including a day of travel on either end.

7 Day Banff & Jasper Itinerary

Drive Time: It takes 1 – 1.5 hours to drive from Calgary to Canmore.

This is mainly included as a travel day because you may not have much time, depending on what time your flight is arriving or you are able to depart from Calgary. If you are short on days, you can skip this travel day and go right to Day 1 below.

If you do have the time, however, I recommend stopping to do some hiking in Kananaskis country before reaching Canmore. Here are my recommended easy hikes in Kananaskis . Note that in order to do any of these hikes, you’ll need to register your car’s license plate for Kananaskis Conservation Pass online ($15/day).

After arriving in Canmore, take some time to explore the town’s many art galleries, laid-back vibe, and excellent restaurants to choose from. There are also three breweries and one spirit distillery in town.

Drive Time: It’s a 30-minute drive from Canmore to Banff.

In the morning, wake up early to do the hike to Grassi Lakes 10 minute drive out of Canmore town.

This easy hike leads to two gorgeous, vibrantly colored lakes at the base of two iconic Canmore mountains: Rundle Mountain and Ha Ling Peak on Mt. Lawrence Grassi. The hike takes two hours, and a Kananaskis Conservation pass is required.

After you check out from your hotel, it’s time to head to Banff National Park. You can purchase your National Park Discovery Pass when you drive through the national park gates. Banff townsite is only 30 minutes away, so you’ll have some time to kill.

Park your car in Banff townsite, have lunch, then stroll to explore the town’s many shops, cafés, art galleries. Cross the bridge at the south end of town to visit Buffalo Nations Museum, which highlights local indigenous culture.

Next, follow the lovely walking trail along the south side of the Bow River east to Bow River Falls. Alternatively, take the trail on the north side of the river to Surprise Corner, an epic view of the iconic Banff Springs Hotel.

Check into your hotel, then choose from one of the many great dining options in town. For an evening drink, try Banff Ave Brewing or Park Distillery. After diner, take a stroll around Banff with Banff Ghost Tours and learn about some of the dark and spooky history of Banff (and the Banff Springs Hotel).

>>> Book your Banff Ghost Tours HERE

Drive Time: Less than 1 hour.

Today you’ll get a bird’s eye view of Banff and soak up (both literally and figuratively) the national park’s history.

Drive up the side of Sulphur Mountain to Banff Gondola , where you’ll hitch a ride up to the peak. It’s best to reserve your tickets online, and there are special deals for families and early departures.

>>> Book your Banff Gondola Ticket on Viator or Get Your Guide .

At the summit, there’s a small museum, restaurant & café, and boardwalk trail to the proper peak. The views are outstanding. Most people spend around 1.5 hours at the summit (add more time if you plan to eat there); you need to choose a return time for your gondola, but they are flexible.

Pro tip: If you don’t want to splurge on pricey food, pack a lunch.

After your return gondola ride, drive a few minutes to Upper Hot Springs, the only public natural hot spring spa in Banff National Park. Enjoy the mountain views all around you as you soak in the thermal waters.

Next, drive back down the mountain and visit Cave & Basin National Historic Site, or “Lower Hot Spring.” This cave hot spring was Banff’s first attraction and the whole reason that Banff National Park, Canada’s first, was created.

While you can no longer bathe at Cave & Basin, you can still see the original spring, home to an endangered species of snail. The museum details the park’s history, and there are some children’s activities and walking trails outside.

Drive Time: Around 1 hour, with lots of stops

On day three, if you’re willing to wake up early enough, take in the sunrise from Vermillion Lakes, a few minutes’ drive (or 30-minute walk) out of town. Next drive the Minnewanka Loop just north of town. Go in a clockwise direction, stopping first at Bankhead Ghosttown, the remains of a former mining town.

Next you’ll reach beautiful Lake Minnewanka, where you can enjoy a picnic or stroll by the lake, or take one of the famous cruises on the lake (advance reservations are recommended). There’s a small food shack, but don’t count on it being open; pack some food just in case.

Further along the road, Two Jack Lake is another beautiful lake that also has a popular campground. After that, a side road leads to Johnson Lake, one of the best places to go swimming in Banff. It is a non-glacial lake, so it isn’t as freezing as the others.

Finally, Cascade Ponds features gorgeous mountain views across a series of ponds, perfect for a picnic or simply basking in the sun.

Drive Time: It’s a 1-hour drive from Banff to Lake Louise (via Johnston Canyon) and 40 minutes (return) drive from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake.

>>> Avoid parking issues with the Banff National Park hop-on-hop-off Bus

Check out of your hotel and follow the Trans-Canada highway out of town toward Banff. Turn onto the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) to reach Johnston Canyon. Johnston Canyon is a popular hike through a narrow canyon to a series of waterfalls. You can budget about an hour return to Upper Falls, or continue even further to the Ink Pots.

Next, continue on to Lake Louise, often considered the most beautiful lake in all of Canada. Besides walking the lakeside trail, a number of more difficult hiking trails begin there, you can canoe or kayak, or in winter skate on the lake.

Lake Louise’s twin, Moraine Lake, also makes a claim for the most beautiful lake in Canada. A side road (40 min return) leads to Moraine Lake, but the road closes in winter.

It’s important to note that the parking lots at both lakes can get so full that they get barricaded and you can’t even access them. This can even happen in the early morning for the sunrise rush! If you’re visiting in summer, you should consider parking your car and taking the official shuttle bus from a parking lot nearby. The shuttle does a loop to both lakes.

Finally, check into your hotel and enjoy a quiet evening.

Drive Time: It’s a 3-hour drive from Lake Louise to Jasper, not counting all the stops.

From Lake Louise, you’ll turn off the Trans-Canada and onto Highway 93, the Icefields Parkway. This route features some of the most gorgeous scenery in the Rocky Mountains.

Some stops you may want to make along the way include Herbert Lake, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake (which is particularly beautiful from the elevated parking lot), and Waterfowl Lake in Banff National Park.

After that, the highway enters Jasper National Park, and the first noteworthy stop is Athabasca Glacier on the mighty Columbia Icefield. You can walk right up to the glacier, or take a ride right on it in one of the Snow Coaches. There’s also a package deal that includes a trip to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

After that, other possible stops before reaching Jasper townsite include Tangle Falls, Sunwapta Falls, Athabasca Falls, and Horseshoe Lake, where you can jump off the cliffs into the water.

Start your day by choosing from one of several local hikes. The Valley of the Five Lakes is easy and beautiful, while Edith Cavell Meadows Trail is a little more challenging and includes a gorgeous glacial lake with chunks of ice floating in it, even in summer.

After lunch in town, choose one or several lakes to explore. Patricia Lake and Pyramid Lake offer stunning views of Pyramid Mountain and several trails. Around Jasper Park Lodge, Beauvert Lake, Mildred Lake, Annette Lake, and Edith Lake are each beautiful and have trails around them. Lake Annette also has a beach.

In the evening, explore the shops in Jasper townsite or go for a sun-downer at Jasper Ave Brewing.

Drive Time: It’s a 1.5-hour return drive from Jasper to Maligne Lake.

For your final full day in Jasper, drive Maligne Lake Road to Maligne Canyon, Jasper’s answer to Johnston Canyon in Banff.

Like Johnston Canyon, this is a narrow canyon with a trail through it, but the two canyons have different views and are both worth exploring. If you happen to be visiting at the peak of winter, when the ice is thick enough, the Maligne Canyon Icewalk (in which you walk through the canyon right on the frozen creek) is unbelievably beautiful.

Next, keep following Maligne Lake Road to Medicine Lake and finally Maligne Lake, where cruises depart to Spirit Island, one of the most famous scenes in the Canadian Rockies. Book your tickets early!

For your final return day, choose one of the three options I mentioned above. These are to finish in Edmonton, backtrack to Calgary, or take the slower route back to Calgary via Nordegg and Cowboy Trail.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Jasper and Banff National Parks!

Check out these other popular National Park Roads.

• Utah National Parks Road Trip
• South Dakota National Park Road Trip

Hi, I'm Jennifer!

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Parks. I'm here to help you plan your NEXT amazing adventure through the United States National Parks and beyond. I want the national parks to be accessible to all.

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Ultimate guide to the Lake Louise to Jasper road trip

Lake Louise and Jasper are two of the most picturesque destinations in Western Canada. Even the journey from Lake Louise to Jasper is an experience not to be missed for adventurous outdoor lovers.

Driving the Icefields Parkway , which connects Lake Louise and Jasper, is a highlight of any trip to the region.

I myself have had the pleasure of experiencing this breathtaking drive firsthand and can attest to its unparalleled beauty. It was great to tick this experience off my Canada bucket list.

The 232-kilometre highway winds through some of the most scenic landscapes in Canada, offering panoramic views of towering peaks, pristine lakes, and sweeping valleys.

Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore, from hiking to waterfalls and glaciers to viewing wildlife in their natural habitat.

With every turn, the Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Jasper offers a new and awe-inspiring vista, making it an unforgettable journey for any adventurous outdoor lover.

This guide on how to drive Lake Louise to Jasper, or Jasper to Lake Louise, includes how to get to each town by car, by bus, on a private Banff tour and also by rideshare. Grab your hiking boots, pack your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure from Lake Louise to Jasper.

Table of Contents

How to get from lake louise to jasper by car.

For adventurous travel lovers looking to explore the natural beauty of Western Canada, the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper along the 233-kilometre Icefields Parkway is a must-do experience in the Canadian Rockies .

Passing through Banff National Park and into Jasper National Park, this 3-hour drive offers breathtaking views of some of the best blue lakes near Banff , giant waterfalls, the stunning Columbia ice field, and the Athabasca glacier.

Though the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper is only 3 hours. I highly recommend allowing a full day to complete this drive.

There are so many beautiful places to stop on the Icefields Parkway that you’ll definitely need longer than three hours!

Some of the best places to stop on the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper include the waterfalls on the Icefields Parkway and the numerous turquoise lakes including Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Bow Glacier Falls and others.

Following the road from Lake Louise to Jasper is pretty easy and it’s virtually impossible to get lost. However, I recommend downloading an offline map which can help you see where all the best stops along the drive are.

If you’re visiting from abroad, you may need to rent a car. You can get a rental car from Edmonton Airport or from Calgary International Airport depending on whether you’re driving from Jasper to Lake Louise or Lake Louise to Jasper.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

With its awe-inspiring landscapes and natural wonders, the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper promises to be an unforgettable adventure for any outdoor lover and it’s by far one of my favourite road trips in Canada.

If you want to learn more about what you’re seeing as you drive. This Lake Louise to Jasper road trip audio guide is a great way to do so.

Jasper to Lake Louise Bus

If you’re an adventurous travel lover looking to experience the stunning views of the Lake Louise to Jasper road trip without the hassle of driving, then travelling by bus is a great option for you. 

Perhaps you’re not able to drive, or don’t want to deal with having to drive on the other side of the road, paying for car rental or insurance. If so, then getting the bus from Lake Louise to Jasper could solve your problems.

The downside to getting a bus is that you can’t get off whenever you want to soak in the views. If that’s important to you but you don’t want to do the driving yourself, you may want to consider taking a guided tour bus from Lake Louise to Jasper instead (see below)

Having said that, one of the main advantages of taking the bus from Lake Louise to Jasper is that you can simply sit back and relax, taking in the breathtaking scenery without the stress of navigating the road. 

When booking tickets online, you can easily choose your pick-up and drop-off locations to arrange a Lake Louise to Jasper bus. 

• Brewster Express : provides pickup service from major hotels in Banff, Lake Louise, Kananaskis Country, or Calgary. Lake Louise to Jasper only runs from May to October.
• SunDog Tours : offers private transportation options from minivans to sedans. Prices depend on the size of your group.

Jasper to Lake Louise by Private Transfer

If you are unable or unwilling to drive from Lake Louise to Jasper, consider a private transfer. Private transfers can be a comfortable and relaxing way to travel from Lake Louise to Jasper and some of them offer you the flexibility of stopping off to view the sights.

You can sit back in the comfort of a private vehicle with an experienced driver behind the wheel and enjoy the ride.

The driver for the recommended private transfers between Jasper and Lake Louise is often a local who can provide commentary throughout the scenic road trip and tell you all about the best places to visit, the best hikes in Lake Louise or Jasper and more. 

• SunDog Tours offers private transfer and add-on sightseeing Lake Louise to Jasper tours or additional stops.

Lake Louise to Jasper tours

There are many benefits to taking a guided tour from Lake Louise to Jasper. First, a guided tour takes the stress out of planning and navigating the journey yourself. This is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the area or don’t feel confident driving in a new place.

Also, a good guide will be able to provide interesting commentary on the sights you’re seeing as you travel from Lake Louise to Jasper. Learning more about the area can really give you a whole new appreciation and this is one of the benefits of taking a guided tour. 

Taking a guided tour can also be a social experience which is great for solo travellers. This can lead to new friendships and connections that you may not have otherwise made. I’ve made some great friends from the guided tours I’ve taken in the past while travelling! 

Furthermore, guided tours from Banff to Lake Louise can be a convenient option if you’re short on time. By taking a tour, you’ll be able to see all the best sights and attractions in the Lake Louise to Jasper region in a single day. This is particularly appealing for those who are on a tight schedule or who want to make the most of their time in the Canadian Rockies.

Some of the best-guided tours from Lake Louise to Jasper are listed below with a bit more information.

Lake Louise to Jasper One-Way Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Lake Louise to Jasper as you drive through the stunning wilderness of western Alberta. 

With your knowledgeable guide at the helm, take in the rugged beauty of Banff and Jasper National Parks, with stops at top attractions such as Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, Athabasca Falls, Lake Louise, and the Weeping Wall. 

You’ll get to experience breathtaking views along the Columbia Icefield Parkway as you drive from Lake Louise to Jasper and then enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint. 

Take on a Glacier Adventure or the Glacier Skywalk at the Columbia Icefield Centre and then arrive in Jasper later in the day. 

Book this guided tour from Lake Louise to Jasper.

Banff or Lake Louise to Jasper: One-Way Sightseeing Tour

This guided tour adventure from Lake Louise to Jasper begins with your guide picking you up from your accommodation and taking you through Banff National Park and towards Jasper National Park.

You’ll stop at Lake Louise, followed by a journey through the Icefields Parkway with several stops along the way, including Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, Petyo Lake, Saskatchewan Crossing, the Weeping Wall, the Columbia Icefield, and the Athabasca Falls. 

At the Columbia Icefields, you’ll take part in a Glacier adventure on Athabasca Glacier and experience the Glacier Skywalk for views of the Sunwapta Valley. 

The tour includes excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and is designed for optimal guide and passenger interaction with small group sizes.

• Includes: Fully narrated tour, hotel pick-up in Banff or Lake Louise and drop-off in Jasper, the Glacier Adventure and the Glacier SkyWalk, picnic lunch

Book a guided tour from Banff or Lake Louise to Jasper.

From Banff: Icefield Parkway Scenic Tour with Park Entry

This sightseeing tour takes you from Banff and towards Lake Louise before heading up to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway.

The tour’s first destination is Lake Louise, where you can capture stunning photos and appreciate the breathtaking view of the lake and its glacier backdrop. 

Then, it’s on to the Icefield Parkway. You’ll stop at Crowfoot Glacier and you may even seen some wildlife as you’re driven from Lake Louise to Jasper. 

• Includes: hotel pick up/drop off and National Park entry fees

Book this Jasper and Lake Louise tour here.

Jasper to Lake Louise or Banff along the Columbia Icefields

From the beautiful mountain town of Jasper, you’ll drive from Jasper to Lake Louise along the Icefields Parkway. 

Along the way, you will stop several times to appreciate the breathtaking scenery of the region, including Athabasca Falls, the Columbia Icefields, the Weeping Wall, Petyo Lake, Bow Lake, Crowfoot Glacier, Saskatchewan Crossing, and Lake Louise. 

At the Columbia Icefields, you’ll get to take an adventure on the Athabasca Glacier and experience the Glacier Skywalk, which offers sweeping views over the Sunwapta Valley. 

• Includes: Fully narrated tour, hotel pick-up from Jasper and drop-off in Banff or Lake Louise, the Glacier Adventure and Glacier SkyWalk activities, picnic lunch

Book a Jasper to Lake Louise tour

Banff to Jasper one way tour

Experience the natural beauty of western Alberta on a full-day one-way tour from Banff to Jasper with a knowledgeable guide. 

Explore the rugged wilderness of Banff and Jasper National Parks and see top regional attractions such as Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, Athabasca Falls, Lake Louise, and the Weeping Wall. 

At the Columbia Icefield, you’ll have the opportunity to hike to Athabasca Glacier or take in the stunning views over the Sunwapta Valley on the Glacier Skywalk.

Plus, you can gain insight into the region’s geology at the Columbia Icefield Centre. 

Book this Banff to Jasper tour

Icefields Parkway Drive by RV and Campervan

Renting an RV or campervan is a great way to explore the scenic Jasper to Lake Louise drive in the Canadian Rockies. I would know, it’s how we travelled from Jasper to Lake Louise in our self-converted campervan, Elvis !

While you cannot camp outside of designated areas, there are places you can camp along the Icefields Parkway that are ideal for RVs. Plus, having a campervan or RV with you to drive from Lake Louise to Jasper means you can stop off and fix a quick snack if you need.

A campervan is ideal for two people, as it offers a living space in the back and enough room for all your necessary gear. An RV, on the other hand, is larger and more suitable for families or groups. It may be more expensive, but the extra space and comfort can make a big difference.

No matter which option you choose, driving from Lake Louise to Jasper in an RV or campervan is a memorable way to experience the beauty of the Canadian Rockies. 

Some of the best companies to book an RV or campervan with for travelling from Lake Louise to Jasper include the below:

• Escape Campervans

Jasper to Lake Louise by Train

You cannot get the train to Jasper from Lake Louise. There is no train line that runs south of Jasper towards Lake Louise.

Instead, you can take a multi-day train tour which goes from Vancouver to Jasper and then a coach tour from Jasper to Lake Louise and Banff. Or, you can go from Edmonton to Jasper by train and then take the bus tours to Lake Louise.

The two train companies that offer this are ViaRail and the Rocky Mountaineer. ViaRail is more like a public railway offering whereas the Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury experience and is more expensive to reflect this.

Lake Louise to Jasper by ridesharing

For a cheaper and more unique way to travel from Lake Louise to Jasper, you could try ride sharing.

Many locals and other travellers will post their planned trip from Lake Louise to Jasper, or Jasper to Lake Louise, on a website and see if anyone else wants to go that way and can help split costs. 

Ridesharing between Lake Louise and Jasper is a great way to meet new people and save money. You might even be able to get a ride for free!

If you’re looking for a rideshare, start by checking out Facebook groups, Kijiji, and Meetup.com to see if anyone is heading your way. You can also try using ridesharing platforms like Ridesharing.com and Poparide.com, which allow you to choose your driver based on reviews and your luggage requirements.

Things to know when driving from Lake Louise to Jasper

Parks Canada Pass

Before hitting the road, it’s important to purchase a Parks Canada Pass, even if you don’t plan on stopping. You’ll still need it since you’re driving through these two beautiful National Parks in Canada.

The cost of the pass is essential for the maintenance and conservation of the national parks. Fortunately, purchasing a pass is easy and can be done online or at multiple locations in any of the National Parks or visitors centres.

You can get daily and multi-day passes and there’s also the Discovery Pass which covers you for a year and covers all the national parks across Canada. If you’re spending a week or plan to visit more national parks across the country, the Discovery Pas will save you money.

Winter driving from Lake Louise to Jasper

If you’re planning to visit Lake Louise in winter and drive from Lake Louise to Jasper then you’ll need to take some special precautions. The Lake Louise to Jasper road conditions can greatly affect your driving time.

While Icefields Parkway in winter is generally well-maintained, weather conditions can be unpredictable and driving can be hazardous for those without winter driving experience.

To ensure your safety, here are some tips for winter driving in the Canadian Rockies:

• Plan to start your drive early and complete it before sunset; driving is easier in daylight.
• Make sure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires and you have chains available if necessary.
• Fill up your fuel tank in advance, as there are no working gas stations along the Icefields Parkway in winter.
• Carry an emergency safety kit that includes a cell phone, water, non-perishable food, candles, a fire starter, extra clothes, and warm blankets.
• Share your itinerary with someone you trust and keep them updated at least once a day.

Accidents happen every year and sections of the highway can be closed in harsh weather conditions. By following these safety tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey on this scenic drive from Lake Louise to Jasper. 

Wildlife along the Icefields Parkway

Driving from Lake Louise to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway offers a great opportunity to spot wildlife, including deer, elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and even bears. To increase your chances of spotting wildlife, the best times to look are at dawn and dusk when the animals are most active. While these animals tend to stay away from the highway when there’s a lot of traffic, it’s still possible to catch a glimpse of a bear or other wildlife.

If you see a bear on the highway, it’s important to slow down and view it from your vehicle. Don’t just pull over onto the highway’s shoulder as this can create a traffic jam, unless there’s a parking lot nearby. It’s crucial to respect the animal’s space and not feed it anything or encourage it closer to you.

While the Icefields Parkway is an easy drive, it’s important to manage your speed, as it’s a single-lane road the entire way. If you get stuck behind a slow-moving vehicle, opportunities to overtake are limited. 

Cell coverage along the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper

As you leave Lake Louise behind and venture deeper into the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the signal begins to fade, dwindling away completely after about 20 minutes.

For the majority of the Lake Louise to Jasper drive, you’ll be without cell service, save for a few areas where you might catch a weak signal. These spots include the Columbia Icefields and Saskatchewan River Crossing, but don’t count on them for too long.

Despite the lack of cell service, this stretch of the journey offers a unique opportunity to unplug and disconnect from the outside world. 

Soak up the beauty of your surroundings, revel in the stunning landscapes that surround you, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Who needs constant phone calls and emails when you’re surrounded by such natural splendor? 

You can get (slow) wifi at the Athabasca Glacier visitor centre if it’s really necessary.

Gas stations from Lake Louise to Jasper

If you’re planning a road trip from Lake Louise to Jasper, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s only one gas station along the entire Icefields Parkway. 

This gas station is located at the Saskatchewan River Crossing, roughly midway between the two destinations. 

While it’s a helpful pit stop if you’re running low on fuel, be aware that the prices are steep compared to other gas stations in the area.

 It’s recommended that you fill up your tank in advance in Jasper, Banff, or Lake Louise to avoid getting stuck without gas during your journey. 

Make sure your tank is completely full before hitting the road, especially during the winter when the gas station is closed. 

14 best stops on the Lake Louise to Jasper drive: Icefields Parkway Itinerary

1. lake louise (town and lake).

Since you’re starting your journey here, be sure to experience everything Lake Louise has to offer.

Lake Louise is a must-see destination that offers an array of activities such as hiking, canoeing on Lake Louise , skiing, and sightseeing all within a short drive from the town centre.

Of course, the main attraction is Lake Louise itself.  Known for its mesmerizing milky turquoise color, it is widely considered to be the most beautiful lake in Canada. 

Take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore to soak up the breathtaking views, including the snow-capped Mt. Victoria with its stunning glacier in the backdrop. 

If you’re visiting in winter, you can go ice skating on Lake Louise too which is a super cool experience.

2. Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake in Banff National Park is an incredible lake in Banff that you simply have to visit!

The backdrop to Moraine Lake is incredible. It’s surrounded by the Ten Peaks that tower in the background of the lake. There’s also a beautiful log-cabin-style hotel right on the lake shore, and plenty of stunning hikes and it’s perfect for visiting at sunrise and sunset.

As one of the most beautiful places in Canada to visit, this is one of the things on everyone’s list when they plan to visit Banff.

This stunning Banff lake is so beautiful that it even landed on the Canadian $20 note from 1969 to 1979.

It’s one of the best lakes in Canada and it’s just so pretty! Nothing can compare to the view looking across the lake from the huge rockpile at the parking lot end of the lake and over to the Valley of the Ten Peaks.

This lake gets incredibly busy and now the only way to get to Moraine Lake is by shuttle bus. You must book these tickets in advance (and as early as possible) in order to see Moraine Lake with your own eyes!

As one of the best things to do in Banff National Park, it’s definitely worth the additional faff of having to book the shuttle bus! Alternatively, you could also cycle the road but be prepared for some hill climbs along the way!

You also cannot really visit Moraine Lake in winter. While it is technically possible on cross-country or touring skis you need avalanche and backcountry training and equipment so is not recommended for most people.

If finding a parking spot at Lake Louise is tough, Moraine Lake is even more so, even at sunrise, not to mention that the road from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake is only open from June to mid-October every year (varies depending on weather).

As of 2023, you can no longer drive to Moraine Lake . The only way to get to Moraine Lake for sunrise is to either take an expensive taxi, cycle the 25km round trip OR ride with the Moraine Lake Bus Company .

The Moraine Lake Bus Company is the only company offering sunrise shuttles to Moraine Lake. Prices start at $35 per adult and $25 per child and the shuttles run from 4 am (arriving at Moraine Lake at 4.35 am) to 6.20 pm.

If you want to see Moraine Lake at sunrise, this is definitely the most affordable way!

Book your tickets to Moraine Lake here.

Parks Canada also offer shuttle buses to Moraine Lake, but these don’t start until 6.30 am and so miss the sunrise.

Another option would be to stay at Moraine Lake Lodge . It’s one of the best cabins in Banff National Park when it comes to views, but at about CAD$1,400 a night, it’s the furthest thing for a cheap option!

How to get to Moraine Lake in 2023

• By shuttle bus: The Parks Canada shuttle bus to Moraine Lake runs from June to mid-October and goes every 20 minutes from 6 am to 5.30 pm. You will need to reserve the shuttle bus. More information and reservations are here.
• With Moraine Lake Bus Company: The only sunrise shuttle bus company for Moraine Lake, buses run from 4 am to 6.20 pm. Book tickets here.
• By bike: 25 km round trip at least. Parking at Lake Louise fills up by 7 am so if that’s where you’re planning to park you’ll need to start early. It would be better to start from Lake Louise itself but this adds to the distance.
• By taxi: Commercial vehicles including taxis are still allowed to drive the road. As this is the first year this has been in operation, I do not yet know the prices of a taxi to Moraine Lake. However, I would expect it to be expensive.

3. Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint

Just under 30 minutes into this road trip from Lake Louise to Jasper, you’ll reach the first stop of your road trip: the Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint. 

To catch a glimpse of this natural wonder, just pull off safely into the designated bay on the road.

From this viewpoint, you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking view of Crowfoot Glacier. Aptly named for its crow’s foot shape, this glacier covers an area of around 1.5 square kilometers. Though the glacier has been receding over the years, making it harder to spot its unique shape, it’s still an impressive sight.

Interestingly, it’s the melt from the glacier that feeds the Bow Lake; the next recommended stop on this scenic drive from Lake Louise to Jasper.

4. Bow Lake

Your next stop, just a short distance from the Crowfoot Glacier, is the Bow Lake Viewpoint.

Like the previous viewpoint, you can see the lake from the pull-over bay on the side of the highway. 

Despite being small by Canadian standards, Bow Lake is incredibly beautiful, with its turquoise waters surrounded by the Canadian Rockies. 

The lake’s colour is especially vibrant in the summer when glacial melt and river runoff turns it a gorgeous blue.

If you visit Bow Lake during the summer, keep an eye out for grizzly bears feeding on the grass near the viewpoint! 

There are some great short walking trails around the lake that lead to more scenic viewpoints. They’re definitely worthwhile.

If you’re not up for driving the entire Icefields Parkway, this particular tour departing from Banff/Lake Louise is a great option that will take you to several stops, including Bow Lake and Crowfoot Glacier!

5. Peyto Lake viewpoint

As you journey along the Icefields Parkway, don’t miss the chance to visit one of Canada’s most stunning lakes and easily one of the best lakes in Alberta : Peyto Lake. 

This picturesque lake is a feast for the eyes, nestled in a deep valley surrounded by towering peaks, and glowing a deep shade of blue. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to snap that picture-perfect Instagram shot from the viewpoint overlooking the lake.

One of the unique features of Peyto Lake is that you can easily access the viewpoint with just a short 10-minute walk from the parking area.

This means you can visit the lake at any time, whether it’s at sunset, sunrise, or even during the nighttime to capture breathtaking astrophotography shots.

One thing to note is that getting a parking spot can be a challenge due to the popularity of this lake. Plan your drive from Lake Louise to Jasper for earlier on in the day so that you don’t have trouble with parking.

6. Mistaya Canyon

One of my favourite things about the drive along the Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Jasper is the amount of beautiful places you can pull over and stretch your legs.

Mistaya Canyon is another of these great spots. It’s a canyon walk, similar to Johnston Canyon and Maligne Canyon, where you can view the river below you as it makes its way, carving the rocks as it goes. 

If you’re visiting in the winter or late spring, be aware that the trail may be slippery due to snow and ice. As always, stay on the marked paths to protect the delicate natural environment. 

7. Weeping Wall

Next up as you drive to Jasper from Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway is the Weeping Wall. 

This 1,000 feet cliff face on the Cirrus Mountain range is a spectacle to behold with its narrow streams of water flowing down the cliff’s face, making it appear as though it’s shedding tears. 

As you pull over to the small bay on your left, take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty of the Weeping Wall. 

If you visit in early summer or late spring you’ll see the streams flowing at their fullest, while winter transforms the water into stunning frozen crystals. 

Whether it’s the tears of summer or the icy crystals of winter, the Weeping Wall is a unique stop on your journey that you won’t want to miss.

8. Big Bend viewpoint

The Big Bend is quite easy to miss until you’re already on it, but the advantage of driving yourself from Lake Louise to Jasper is that you can go back again.

Big Bend is essentially a massive curve in the road and there’s a viewpoint at the top from a viewing area called Big Hill where you can see the amazing mountain views below you. 

Keep in mind that the viewpoint is located on the right side of the road and somewhat on a blind corner, so exercise extreme caution when pulling in and out. 

9. Columbia Icefield /Athabasca Glacier

The Athabasca Glacier is an absolute must-see on your road trip from Lake Louise to Jasper and luckily it’s hard to miss. 

This massive glacier is part of the larger Columbia Icefield. While it has been receding quickly in the last few decades, it’s still incredibly impressive (if not a little sad). 

You can no longer walk on the glacier itself unless you’re part of a tour. These tours are highly recommended as a great way to learn more about glaciers and get up-close to them. I’m personally a bit obsessed with glaciers so think the tours are fascinating. 

The tours depart from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center and offer you the opportunity to ride on a specially adapted ice-explorer vehicle, which drives right up onto the glacier.

You’ll get the chance to walk around on the glacier and even fill up your water bottle with pure glacier water. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss, but book in advance as it’s a popular activity.

For those seeking a more active experience, you can still get up close to the glacier by hiking the Athabasca Glacier Trail . This short 1-kilometer hike takes you right to the edge of the glacier, providing a stunning view. If you want to hike onto the glacier itself, you’ll need to book a glacier hiking tour with a guide.

Lake Louise to Athabasca Glacier is around 1.5 hours of driving over 132 km provided you don’t stop.

10. Skywalk

Another super cool experience as you road trip from Lake Louise to Jasper is to check out the Skywalk.

It’s perfect if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush while visiting Banff National Park. 

This impressive man-made structure hangs off the edge of a mountain and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Don’t worry, it’s strong enough to hold a 747 airplane!

If you’re afraid of heights, walking on the glass floor might be nerve-wracking, but trust me, the stunning views are worth it. 

To get to the Skywalk, first, head to the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. Once there, you’ll be provided with headphones for an informative audio tour. Allow about 45 minutes for the experience, and when you’re done, the bus will take you back to the Discovery Center so you can continue your journey to Jasper.

To avoid disappointment, it’s best to book your Skywalk tickets online in advance and consider getting a combined ticket for the Skywalk and Athabasca Glacier tour . 

*This is only available in the summer season

11. Sunwapta Falls

As you get closer to Jasper, the attractions along the Icefields Parkway don’t stop.

Sunwapta Falls is a must-see stop along the Icefields Parkway, just 35 minutes away from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center. 

Although smaller than Athabasca Falls, it is still an impressive waterfall with unique rock formations carved by the powerful water in the canyon below. From the bridge and viewpoint, you can take in the breathtaking view of the falls.

This is a quick stop and is an easy and short walk from the parking lot. You can view this waterfall all year round and it’s arguably even better in winter when you can view it once it’s frozen!

12. Athabasca Falls

The natural wonder of Athabasca Falls is highly regarded as one of the top attractions in Jasper since it’s so close to the town.

The power of the Athabasca Falls is simply awe-inspiring and the stunning scenery of the mountains serves as a perfect backdrop for this beautiful Alberta waterfall. Follow the boardwalk trail that takes you to various viewpoints of the falls and witness the immense force of the water.

In the winter months, the falls take on a different kind of beauty, as the freezing temperatures transform the surroundings into a magical winter wonderland. f you’re lucky enough to visit the Canadian Rockies during winter, Athabasca Falls is definitely a must-see.

13. Edith Cavall

A quick drive from Jasper town, Edith Cavell Mountain is a must-visit destination when driving from Lake Louise to Jasper.

This hiking trail offers incredible views of the surrounding valley and mountain peaks and it’s not a super difficult hike either. 

The Path of the Glacier trail, a paved 1.6-kilometre round trip trail from the parking lot, leads to a viewpoint of the glacier and is easily accessible. 

If you’re up for a longer hike, consider trekking the Cavell Meadows trail, one of the best hikes near Jasper . This is a 7-kilometre round trip and takes about 3.5 hours to complete. 

The road to Edith Cavell is narrow with tight switchbacks, making it unsuitable for trailers and large motorhomes. If you have a trailer, you can leave it at the entrance to Cavell Road in a designated area.

14. Jasper in Jasper National Park

Welcome to Jasper! You’ve made it all the way from Lake Louise to Jasper in Jasper National Park.

This mountain town is one of my favourites for many reasons. First, it’s full of breathtaking scenery and a diverse range of activities to enjoy. Plus, Jasper exudes a small-town charm and it’s not as crowded as Banff.

Whenever I’ve visited Jasper I’ve had so much fun (and been lucky enough to see lots of bears too!).

During your trip to Jasper, I highly recommend checking out some of my favourite spots and the best things to do in Jasper.  

• The SkyTram offers a bird’s-eye view of the town and surrounding mountains, and it’s best to book ahead due to the limited capacity. 
• Maligne Lake : with its stunning turquoise-blue water, mountain peaks, pine trees, and glaciers. Taking a cruise on the lake is a great way to experience its beauty and Spirit Island, one of the most photographed spots in Jasper National Park. You can also camp by Spirit Island after kayaking or canoeing down the lake but this is extremely difficult to book.
• Marmot Basin is a must-visit in winter for skiing. There are ski runs for beginners through to advanced skiers and snowboarders.
• Explore downtown Jasper: Walk along Connaught Street and check out the historic train station and unique shops. 
• Go white water rafting in Jasper 
• Explore Pyramid Lake and the boardwal k

Where to stay in Jasper

When it comes to where to stay in Jasper there are a lot of options for Jasper hotels and cabins and cottages as well as camping.

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Jasper I have a full guide to that and I’ve picked a few of the best options below.

• Best budget accommodation in Jasper: HI Hostel Downtown Jasper
• Best hotel in Jasper: Whistler’s Inn
• Best luxury accommodations in Jasper National Park: Pyramid Lake Resort or Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
• Best place for camping in Jasper: Snaring Campground, Jasper
• Best cabins in Jasper: Miette Mountain Cabin

Road Trip from Jasper to Lake Louise to Banff

If you’re staying in Banff like many people choose to do, then you might want to start your road trip from Lake Louise to Jasper from Banff.

In that case, there are so additional stops that you should definitely check out!

Must-sees on the way from Banff to Lake Louise:

• Vermillion Lake
• Two Jack Lake
• Minnewanka Lake
• Moraine Lake
• Lake Louise – stay here for the night

Read my 4-day Banff Itinerary

This is part of the Canadian Rockies that I am most familiar with, having driven it several times. It’s super pretty but the Icefields Parkway is something else!

Final thoughts on driving from Lake Louise to Jasper National Park

For adventurous and active travellers looking to drive from Lake Louise to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway is a dream.

The 230-kilometre scenic drive is often cited as one of the most beautiful drives in the world, offering stunning views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and a range of outdoor activities.

The Icefields Parkway offers numerous opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching. as well as plenty of other worthy stops.

One of the must-see attractions along the way is Peyto Lake, which is renowned for its vibrant blue colour and is surrounded by hiking trails that lead to stunning views. There are also waterfalls, glaciers and more beautiful lakes and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Overall, for adventurous and active travellers, the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway is a must-do experience, offering incredible scenic views and a range of outdoor activities.

If you’re continuing on into BC, be sure to check out these road trip guides including Kamloops to Jasper, where to stop between Whistler to Kamloops , and Whistler to Vancouver.

FAQs on driving from Lake Louise to Jasper

Is lake louise close to banff or jasper.

Lake Louise is closer to Banff than Jasper. The driving time Banff to Lake Louise is around 1-hour. And the driving time Lake Louise to Jasper is about 3.5 or longer when allowing for stops. Jasper to Banff therefore takes at least 4.5 hours.

Best time to drive from Lake Louise to Jasper?

The Icefields Parkway, the scenic route from Lake Louise to Jasper, is open year-round but road conditions can vary depending on the season. Summer months between June to September are the most popular and offer the best road conditions, while winter months between October to May can have heavy snowfalls and can result in some temporary closures.

How long is the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper?

If you were to drive the Icefields Parkway without stopping then it would take about 3 to 3.5 hours. Realistically you should allow for this to take you all day as you’ll want to stop off a lot.

Jasper and Banff, which one is better?

I personally prefer Jasper, it’s quieter, more remote and feels wilder. However, Banff is more popular since it’s closer to bigger cities such as Calgary or British Columbia and arguably has more attractions.

How many days should you spend in Jasper?

I recommend spending 3-4 days in Jasper National Park. This gives you plenty of time to do some hiking, and explore all the top attractions in Jasper National Park.

What is the distance between Jasper and Lake Louise?

The distance from Lake Louise to Jasper is approximately 233 km. To drive this Lake Louise to Jasper distance takes around 3.5 hours.

What is the speed limit on the Icefields Parkway?

The speed limit on the Icefields Parkway is 90 km/h (55 mph), and it is strictly enforced.

Do I need a National Parks Pass to travel from Lake Louise to Jasper?

Yes, a National Parks Pass is required to enter both Jasper Lake Louise and Banff National Parks. Visitors can purchase a pass at the park entrance or online before arrival.

Last Updated on January 8, 2024 by Hannah

Hannah started That Adventurer after graduating back in 2013 and has documented all of her adventures since then. From backpacking South America to city breaks in Europe , a 3 month road trip across the USA in a self-converted van and 6 years living in Canada , you’ll find posts on all of this.

Hannah specialises in active travel and on That Adventurer you’ll find hiking, walking, biking, skiing and all sorts of active travel guides to allow you to see a destination in an adventurous way.

Now back in Europe, you’ll find new guides as Hannah and her husband spend the next year ‘digital nomading’ from Norway to Portugal, Switzerland to Scotland and places in between.

Jasper to Lake Louise via Icefields Parkway Drive

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Icefields Parkway Drive is one of the most scenic drives in the world. The route connects many of the stunning destinations in the Canadian Rockies , making it a bucket list road trip from Jasper to Lake Louise and Banff National Park. 

We have driven this route from Banff and Lake Louise to Jasper, and vice versa. In this post, we will share the available transportation options, starting from Jasper via the Icefields Parkway route to Lake Louise.

Table of Contents

Jasper to Lake Louise Icefields Parkway Drive

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Driving from Jasper to Lake Louise: Distance, seasonal conditions, road trip planning and park fees

Distance from Jasper National Park to Lake Louise

The distance from Jasper to Lake Louise is about 231 kilometres and it roughly takes about 3 hours to reach, if you drive non-stop. The entire route is done via Highway AB-93S.

During winters, many attractions along the way may be closed due to slippery road conditions, snowfall, and avalanches. The Icefields Parkway Drive or the highway route is open all year round. However, as with all winter driving in Canada, you have to be prepared and exercise caution. 

From Jasper National Park, there are quite a few things that you can stop by and explore. If you start early, you can visit the natural attractions, go on short hikes, reach Lake Louise by afternoon, and thereafter head to Banff (evening). It is doable in 8 to 10 hours while stopping along the way. 

The route is very stunning, as you drive through. Icefields Parkway is a fully paved road with wide shoulders. There are only a few switchbacks, but for the most part, is fairly easy and scenic to drive. Larger vehicles like RV have no issues navigating the drive, the same goes for buses. 

We will detail all the sightseeing stops on the Icefields Parkway Drive from Jasper to Lake Louise, and an option to head to Banff town. 

Map of Jasper to Lake Louise via Icefields Parkway + Stops

Fees: Jasper and Banff National Park

Lake Louise is located inside the Banff National Park. Both Banff and Jasper national parks have entry fees and they are the same for both. If you are paying for a daily pass, the ticket you pay for in Jasper will be valid in Lake Louise and Banff town.

The daily or 24-hour pass means that you pay $10 CAD per adult for one day inside the National Park. Here are the entrance fees, as found on the Canada Parks website,

• Adult – Person 18 to 64 years of age – $10 CAD per day or 24 hours*
• Family/Car – $20 CAD – per day or 24 hours
• Senior – $8.30
• Youth (up to 17 years) – Free
• Commercial group (per person) – $8.30

If you are a frequent visitor to National Parks in Canada, we recommend opting for the Discovery Pass. It is definitely a money saver. The Discovery Pass is valid for one full year from the date of purchase and it allows you to access over 80 historical, and nature parks in Canada for a set price of $69+ CAD (for adults).

Jasper Accommodation: We have written a detailed guide to where to stay in Jasper National Park , you can also book our top favorite hotels here – Marmot Lodge , Jasper Fairmont Lodge  

Jasper to Lake Louise by Car: Icefields Parkway Driving Tips

COSTS: Gas: $20- 35 CAD one way + Car Rental starts at $23 CAD per day

Our favorite way to travel to Lake Louise from Jasper National Park is by car. We like starting early in the morning like around 7:00 am in the summertime, and after 08:00 am in the winters. Wintertime calls for driving delays and poor visibility, so ensure you factor that in during your road trip.

With a vehicle, you can make stops along the way, and enjoy various falls and lakes. 

If you are already in Jasper, we are assuming you picked up a rental car in Edmonton or even Jasper itself. You can easily rent a car from the Edmonton International Airport (options for Avis, Enterprise, Budget, etc.) to Jasper. You can book it online, ahead of time via     Expedia  and  Rentalcars/Booking – two of our favorite travel services sites.

Ensure you fill up gas in Jasper National Park. There is only one fuel station on the Icefields Parkway at the Saskatchewan River Crossing, and prices here are very expensive. 

If you have never driven in Canadian winters, we recommend avoiding this route. Most of the winter photos you see in this post are from late November. Salil has been driving for a decade in the winters here, I still sit at the edge of my seat during switchbacks, and mountain driving – so yea a little practice is needed. 

You will also not find a ton of restaurants or crowds along the way, so drive slow, get car insurance, and have emergency numbers handy. Drivers along the way are very helpful, in case your car breaks down or you are stuck, but the route is not super crowded in the winters, therefore being cautious is key.

We also recommend carrying a blanket and some snacks with you, as you enjoy those stunning mountain views!

Directions: From Jasper, you can embark on the AB-93 S (Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1/AB-93) highway and follow signs for Lake Louise. If this is your first time in Alberta or Western Canada, we recommend using GPS or Google Maps to make your drive easy. 

READ: How to plan a road trip in Canada

Jasper to Lake Louise Bus

COSTS: Starts at $54 CAD, takes 3.50+ hours one way

Is there a bus from Jasper to Lake Lousie?

Yes, there are buses to take you from Jasper National Park to Lake Louise. These bus trips are usually like this, Jasper > Lake Louise > Banff and vice versa.

This is probably the best option if you don’t like to drive or are uncomfortable with winter driving. Sundog Connector offers reliable transportation between Jasper and Banff, with stops in Lake Louise. You can choose your pick up and drop off location when booking tickets online. 

Sundog Tours operates a scheduled bus service from downtown Jasper to Lake Louise. The journey takes about 3.50 hours. 

You can also book bus tickets via Busbud. We use Busbud mostly on our European trips. 

Jasper to Lake Louise by Private Transfer

SunDog Tours offers private transfers, and you can also book a sightseeing tour, or additional stops to make the most of your trip. This is a better option than booking a taxi. 

Book a private transfer to Lake Louise from Jasper here

Icefields Parkway Drive by RV and Campervan

COSTS: $75 and $150 CAD per night to rent campervans or small trailers. Renting an RV is great for long trips as the costs can average to less than $75 CAD per day.

It is very common to see campervans in Jasper and Banff National Park, road tripping through the Canadian Rockies. There are many RV and campervan rental companies that you can use to book, and the Icefields Parkway route can be easily accessed and driven with an RV.

Here are RV and Campervan rental options from Jasper 

• Motorhomerepublic
• KarmaCampervans

Jasper to Lake Louise by Train

COSTS: Starts at $110 CAD per adult

Is there a train from Jasper to Lake Louise? 

There is a direct train service from Jasper to Lake Louise via – VIA Rail. You can book them via Sundog Tours – online or in person at their downtown office. On average, you can expect to spend around $110+ CAD for your train ticket. 

The trip takes 3.50 hours, and the route is as follows 

Jasper > Lake Louise > Banff > Calgary Connector towards Lake Louise South Bound (Calgary Airport)

Jasper Lake Louise by Guided Tour

COSTS: Starts at $200+ CAD per person (includes return trip, sightseeing) 

Sundog Tours offers both transportation/shuttle buses and stand-alone sightseeing tours, so you can book both. Accommodation is additional. 

What is there to see between Lake Louise and Jasper via Icefields Parkway Drive

Although the Icefields Parkway drive takes over 3 hours to complete – one way, the entire route is super scenic, so you must stop at some of the jaw dropping locations like the Athabasca Falls, Sunwapta Falls, Columbia Icefields to name a few. 

In Jasper National Park, don’t forget to explore Pyramid Lake and Island, Patricia Lake, Maligne Lake, and Maligne Canyon, Valley of five lakes, etc. In the winter a trip to the Marmot Ski Resort is a must. You can read our guide for inspiration – things to do in Jasper in the winter

Here are the Icefields Parkway Stops from Jasper to Lake Louise: 

• Athabasca Falls
• Sunwapta Falls
• Glacier Skywalk and Columbia Icefields
• Lake Louise
• Bow Lake (optional)
• Abraham Lake (optional) 
• Moraine Lake
• Johnston Canyon
• Banff 

Athabasca Falls (from Jasper is 30 minutes)

Located about 30 minutes drive away from Jasper town are the stunning Athabasca Falls. The falls viewing platform can be accessed by those with limited mobility as well. If visiting in the winter or early spring months, ensure you are wearing cleats as the steps and pathway leading to the falls can get very slippery. 

Sunwapta Falls (from Jasper is 40 minutes)

Another 15-20 minutes from Athabascsa are the Sunwapta Falls. These waterfalls look beautiful at any time of year. During summers you can hike the 1.30 km (.8 mile) trail, and enjoy the scenery.

During winters, the falls look even more beautiful with the soft white snow in and around the craters and the fall itself. There is a lodge and a restaurant near the Sunwapta Falls, and it has limited operating hours in the winter season. 

Glacier Skywalk and Columbia Icefields (1 hour 15 minutes from Jasper)

You will probably want to spend most of the time here. Columbia Icefields are home to the largest non-polar ice fields in the world. In the summer – from May to October, you can also join the Columbia Icefield Adventure tour and experience the Athabasca Glacier.

This adventure tour is weather dependent, and includes an Ice Explorer Tour on the Athabasca Glacier, plus admission to the Skywalk, and return transportation from the Glacier Discovery Centre.

Without the tour, you can still visit the Glacier Discovery Centre, and admire the views from a distance. To visit the glacier up close and personal, you have to take these tours (and hop on the Ice Explorer vehicle to take you there). 

Pursuit Banff Jasper Collection conducts these tours.

Peyto Lake (1 hour from Icefields Columbia)

Peyto Lake is a gorgeous glacial fed lake located along the Icefields Parkway. Depending on how much time you have on hand you can also skip this and head straight to Lake Louise.

If you do decide to spend some time at the lake, you can enjoy an easy 3.8 mile round trip hike. This spot welcomes you to one of the best views in the Canadian Rockies. There is also an accessible viewing area for sightseeing. 

Lake Louise (30 minutes from Peyto Lake)

Finally, you are here at the turquoise-sy beautiful Lake Louise. If you arrive here in the late afternoon, and it is summertime, you can enjoy the evening, sip some wine or coffee at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

Other than the luxury hotel, there is moderate accommodation available like Lake Louise Inn . You can find more hotels here for Lake Louise . 

Spending a full day here is nice for hiking, and canoeing in the summer. If visiting in the winters, you can go skiing at the Lake Louise Ski resort, and ice skating at the frozen lake. In the late winter months, there are ice festivals that you can enjoy too. You can read our full guide on visiting Lake Louise in winters.  

Further connecting to Banff National Park and Canadian Rocky Mountains

From Lake Louise, Banff town is just 50 minutes away. There are tons of things to do in and around Banff from visiting more lakes (Two Jack Lake, Minnewanka Lake, Moraine Lake, Vermillion Lake), hiking and biking trails, campgrounds, gardens, and other cute Alberta towns along the way. Get our 3 days in Banff itinerary

If you are starting early for Banff from Lake Louise, we recommend adding Abraham Lake to the itinerary. Abraham Lake is an artificial lake, and from December to early February you can check out ice bubbles at their reservoir. 

You can also head further north from Lake Louise to Bow Lake (30 minute drive), off the Icefields Parkway (Hwy 93). Bow Lake is a little known lake, located at an elevation of 1920 metres. 

Yoho National Park in British Columbia is an easy day trip from Lake Louise . It takes about 15 to 20 minutes from the hamlet of Lake Louise. 

Another add-on is the Johnston Canyon . The canyons are accessible all year round, and in the winter you can go on a guided ice walk too. 

Is Lake Louise close to Banff or Jasper?

Lake Louise is closer to Banff. It is a 50 minute drive from Banff. The lake is located within the park boundaries. It is possible to do a day trip from Banff quite easily.

On the other hand, from Jasper National Park, it takes about 3.50+ hours to reach Lake Louise (nonstop drive). 

Road Trip from Banff to Lake Louise to Jasper National Park

So many of our readers start in Banff and then make their way to Jasper National Park, we will definitely share a full guide for that route. But here is an quick guide 

From Banff, head to Lake Louise – 50 minutes drive. Along the way you can stop at the following attractions

• Vermillion Lake
• Two Jack Lake
• Minnewanka Lake
• Lake Louise – stay here for the night
• Explore Lake Louise
• Start for Icefields Parkway drive to Jasper from Lake Louise
• Reach Jasper town, stay for the night (or two)

We have done the trip in both ways, and the Icefields Parkway are stunning! They are beautiful at all times of the year. 

When Is The Best Time To Go on the Icefields Parkway Drive? 

The highway route or the road is open all year round and is very much accessible. But many prefer to travel from May to October. This is because most of the natural attractions along with the Icefield Explorer – Columbia Icefields tour are operational during these months. That makes May, June and the tail end of August and September the best time to visit and drive the Icefields Parkway.

The peak time to visit Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper is from June to September, as these months offer the best good weather, with road conditions, hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities. 

Being summer months, July and August can be super crowded with tourists. But June, late August, and September will be much nicer and also cooler in temperature.  

As we mentioned, winters can be challenging for driving. Also, winter comes in early and stays late in Lake Louise and Jasper. Snowfall often leads to poor winter driving conditions, road closures, and poor visibility. Attractions along the way may be closed. 

Final Words

So, that’s a wrap! We hope you found this post useful in planning your trip to the Icefields Parkway. This route is so gorgeous – you can check off ancient glaciers, beautiful turquoise lakes, stunning hiking trails and mountains, as they all call out to you!

Drive safe!

Read : More Canada Road Trip Itineraries here

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

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Banff to Jasper: What You Need to Know for Driving the Icefields Parkway

February 3, 2021 By Matthew G. Bailey 31 Comments

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Icefields Parkway Guide Last updated: September 3rd, 2022

Alberta is home to some of the top road trips in Canada , including the stretch from Banff to Jasper (or from Jasper to Banff), which is perhaps the most beautiful road trip in the country. In fact, various publications have awarded the Icefields Parkways as one of the most scenic road trips on the planet as it takes you through two Canadian Rockies national parks and all kinds of natural beauty including towering mountain peaks, turquoise lakes and rivers, glaciers, and lush alpine forest. 

The Icefields Parkway itself stretches for approximately 233km from Lake Louise to Jasper, but it clocks in at 288km if you include the drive from Banff to Jasper. Without stopping, it would take around four hours in good weather. However, it would be silly to drive this beautiful route without stopping to admire the natural attractions or take part in one of the many activities. If you can’t make the drive yourself, there are plenty of tour companies offering the experience as well. 

The drive is also located in the middle of the Canadian Rockies, which can be home to some inhospitable weather, especially during the winter months. Before setting out on the adventure, be sure to check in for road closures and hazards. You’ll also want to take particular care during the winter months as the roads are slippery and the weather can be very cold should your vehicle decide to break down. Even in the summer, there are hazards though, including wildlife encounters both on the road and on the trails, not to mention a lot of traffic. 

In this guide, we’ll help you plan your trip from Banff to Jasper as well as learn all the best things to do along the Icefields Parkway.

Banff to Jasper – Tips for Driving the Icefields Parkway

As mentioned, the Icefield Parkway starts around Lake Louise. So, first, you’d drive from Banff to Lake Louise and from there, it’s approximately 230 kilometres to the town of Jasper, Alberta . If you’re driving from Calgary to Banff , you’ll also pass by Canmore along the way. The highway is very well maintained and is extremely popular in the warmer months. However, if you’re hoping to drive it in the winter, just bear in mind that this is a mountain road and it closes frequently in the winter months due to heavy snow or other dangerous conditions. For a winter trip, you’ll want to be well-prepared for any worst-case scenario.

Icefields Parkway Map

Popular Questions – Quick Answers

Before we get into the detailed guide, we thought we’d quickly answer some of the most popular questions. Afterwards, please continue to read this detailed guide about the road trip from Banff to Jasper. 

What is there to see between Jasper and Banff?

Want a quick recap on the best things to do when driving from Banff to Jasper? Here are the popular highlights:

• The Town of Banff

Johnston Canyon

Lake louise.

• Moraine Lake
• Peyto Lake Viewpoint
• Glacier Skywalk and Columbia Icefields

Athabasca Falls

Sunwapta falls.

• Town of Jasper
• The Jasper Skytram
• Maligne Lake
• Maligne Canyon

Is Jasper or Banff better?

Is chocolate or ice cream better? I don’t think there is one proper answer to this question. Both towns and the surrounding areas are absolutely beautiful and some of the best scenery on Earth. In fact, just like chocolate and ice cream, perhaps they go better together! Banff is certainly in a more convenient location and because of that, it has far more tourists and far more attractions. Jasper is like a more local Banff. It still receives its fair shares of tourists but due to the increased isolation, remains far quieter and yet equally beautiful. 

How far apart are Banff and Jasper?

How many days should you spend in jasper.

We recommend visiting for three days, although you could easily spend longer. Three days in Jasper should give you enough time to see the top attractions and sights in Jasper National Park, including the town of Jasper, the Jasper Skytram, Maligne Canyon, and Maligne Lake. 

Where should I stay when visiting Banff and Jasper?

We will recommend some places towards the end of this article but just for a quick recap, some of the most popular options include Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Moraine Lake Lodge, Buffalo Mountain Lodge, Fairmont Banff Springs, Mount Royal Hotel, Becker’s Chalets, Best Western Plus Siding 29, Deer Lodge, and many more. 

Where do I buy a Jasper Park Pass

As with all Canadian national parks, you’ll need a Parks Canada Park Pass to enter.

Current daily fees are:

Adult [18-64 years old] $9.80 Senior [65+ years old] $8.30 Youth [6-17 years old] FREE Family [Up to 7ppl in a single vehicle] $19.60 Commercial Group (per person) $8.30

The daily passes expire at 4 pm the following day. However, if you’re going to be exploring this national park or any national park in Canada for more than 6-7 days, we highly recommend buying the yearly Discovery Pass, which offers incredible value. The Discovery Pass gives you unlimited admission for a year to all national parks and national historic sites across Canada.

Fees are as follows:

Adult $67.70 Senior $57.90 Youth FREE Family/Group $136.40

For more information, visit the Parks Canada website .

Icefields Parkway Weather (Best Time to Visit)

Just like Banff and Jasper, the Icefields Parkway drive is fairly mild and warm in the summer months and very cold in the winter. Icefields Parkway winter driving can be hazardous as the roads can be very icy. In the summer, it’s as easy as any highway, as long as you pay attention to your surroundings. Summers can be as warm as +25 Celcius whereas winters can drop to -40 Celcius. If you’re looking on a weather app, try looking up the Saskatchewan River Crossing weather as it’s fairly close to the middle and will be fairly accurate.

Banff to Jasper by Car

In our opinion, there’s no better way to see the Icefields Parkway than to drive it yourself. We love doing road trips in Canada and this is the best one of them all. Despite being a 3-hour drive, it always takes us six hours or more due to all the scenic stops along the way. Regardless, check the Icefields Parkway road conditions before you embark on your journey, especially if driving in the winter.

Note: the driving conditions are quite different between the summer months and the winter months. The summer months are a much safer time to go, although you still have to be on the lookout for wildlife and other cars as this is a very busy time of year on the highway. In the winter, however, the roads can be very slippery and covered in snow or ice depending on the time of year. 

While driving, you’re going to see so much incredible scenery as well as a fairly high chance of spotting wildlife. Every time we drive the Icefields Parkway, we notice people driving very slow or almost stopping in the middle of the highway to see wildlife or some incredible view such as a waterfall or a glacier. Do not do this. Find a place that’s safe to pull over. If there’s nowhere to stop, it’s much safer to continue driving. There is a lot of traffic and the last thing you want is an accident spoiling your Canadian holiday.

If you’re looking to rent a car for your trip, you can rent them in Calgary, Edmonton, Banff, or any other major city. There are many different rental car companies and we typically just use a search engine such as Expedia to scour prices and find a good deal. There’s also the option of renting an RV or a campervan, which is another very popular thing to do in this part of the world.

Banff to Jasper in the Winter Driving Tips

If you don’t have any winter driving experience, it might be risky to do this drive. There are days when it is dry, but due to its location, snowstorms can come out of nowhere. If you do have winter driving experience, there are still some things to note:

• Winter tires are mandatory. All-weather tires with the snowflake symbol are also allowed.
• There is no cell reception, so keep in mind you won’t be able to call anyone unless you have a satellite phone.
• There are no gas stations during the winter months, so fill up in Lake Louise or in Jasper if coming down from north to south.
• Bring snacks and warm clothes: Typically, we recommend having snacks and water as it is a long trip, but also packing an emergency blanket or extra clothing in case you do break down. Driving as a caravan (with other people driving their vehicles) is always preferred but not always possible.
• Always check road reports and weather to make sure it’s a good time to go. 

Rideshare from Banff to Jasper

If you’re looking to experience the Icefields Parkway by car but aren’t able to drive your own, you may want to consider rideshare. People have been doing this for a long time with sites like Kijiji and Craigslist, but in our opinion, it doesn’t sound like the safest option. However, now there’s Poparide.com, which allows you to select your driver based on reviews as well as your luggage requirements. Prices vary but typically range between $25 – $50.

Buying Gas on the Icefields Parkway

As wild as the Icefields Parkway is, It is not in the “middle of nowhere”. It traverses two national parks and is very well maintained. It’s only 230-km from the turnoff near Lake Louise to the town of Jasper. However, if you’re worried about gas, fill up before you begin because there’s only one gas station along the way. It’s about half-way at the Saskatchewan River Crossing. You can also fill up in Banff or Lake Louise.

In addition to gas, the only places to find food along the way would be at the Saskatchewan River Crossing, the Icefields Visitor Center, or Sunwapa Falls Resort, which is very close to Jasper. Once in Jasper, there are many incredible restaurants and fast food joints. You may want to pack snacks, especially if you’re planning on doing some hikes.

Banff to Jasper by Private Car

If you’d rather not drive your own car but also don’t want to be cramped inside a bus, you may want to consider a private tour. Obviously, these will be much more expensive, but they also come with an experienced driver who can tour you around worry-free.

• SunDog Tours offers private tours in a sedan, SUV, or shuttle between Banff and Jasper depending on the size of your group.
• Banff Tours also has different options of vehicles based on group size with a capacity of up to 24 people. If you’re a group, this might be ideal as you can also choose your points of interest along the way.

Banff to Jasper by Bus

Another popular method of driving from Banff to Jasper on the Icefields Parkway is by bus. Although it lacks the freedom of a car, it can be cheaper and also allows you to sit back and relax and not worry about being behind the wheel.

• Brewster Express offers a shuttle service from Banff to Jasper. For $120 per person one-way, your departure and drop-off locations can be customized to where you’re staying.
• SunDog Tours offers a one-way tour from Banff to Jasper that includes a four hour stop at the Columbia Icefield. The total tour time is 11 hours, so this is only if you want to see the sites they stop at along the way. However, if you’re visiting in the winter, they also have a direct route between Banff and Jasper as well as from Calgary to Banff. This service operates from October to April.
• Banff Tours provides a coach shuttle service between Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise, and Jasper. The Pick-up points are at various hotels within each destination and tickets go for $120 per person each way.

Banff to Jasper by Train

If you’re looking for a magical train ride between Banff and Jasper, you’re out of luck. There is no direct train that goes from Banff to Jasper. However, there are a couple of train excursions that include the Icefields Parkway in some way.

• Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury train experience that includes Jasper National Park and Banff National Park. It’s a very popular train excursion but it comes with a very hefty price-tag for a 2-day trip.
• Icefield Discovery by Canada By Design is a tour that leaves from Vancouver or Calgary and explores a variety of landscapes including both Jasper National Park and Banff National Park.

Icefields Parkway Points of Interest

There are so many places to see and things to do along the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper. If you have loads of time and want to do hikes, there are many trails to choose from. We won’t get into that here because that’s an article of its own. However, if you just want to experience as much of it as you can in one day, there are a few MUST-DO stops that you don’t want to miss.

Below are some of the sights you should include on your Icefields Parkway itinerary:

Vermillion Lakes

(Located 2km from Banff or 286km from Jasper)

Located just 5 minutes west of Banff is beautiful Vermillion Lakes. There’s a short 2-km boardwalk loop, which allows you to take in the stunning sites and stretch your legs at the same time. Sunrise is popular here.

(Located 25km from Banff or 263km from Jasper)

This is one of the popular day hikes in Banff National Park. However, it will take you around 2-3 hours, so make sure you’ve built that time into your schedule. It’s a maintained trail that takes you through a canyon and up to some beautiful waterfalls. Johnston Canyon in the winter is even more spectacular.

(Located 57km from Banff or 231km from Jasper)

If you’ve made it to Banff, you’re likely planning to visit Lake Louise. After all, it’s one of the most famous sites in all of Canada. The lake itself sits in front of the Fairmont hotel and has gorgeous mountain views above the turquoise-coloured lake. There’s a variety of hikes you can do, as well as the opportunity to rent a canoe. On the other side of the Trans-Canada Highway is Lake Louise ski resort. In the winter, it offers some of the best skiing in the world, but in the summer they also offer gondola rides to the top of the mountain. It’s a great place to spot grizzly bears and also has a Wildlife Interpretive Centre at the top.

Bow Summit/Peyto Lake

(Located 100km from Banff or 188km from Jasper)

This is one of the most photographed lakes in the country. The short 2.9-km hike takes you to a viewpoint overlooking the stunning turquoise-coloured lake and the surrounding mountain valley. We highly recommend doing this! This will be your first stop along the Icefields Parkway.

Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefields

(Located 185km from Banff or 103km from Jasper)

This is another must-see along the Icefields Parkway. The Columbia Icefields is one of the largest on Earth. It’s like a frozen river running down through the mountains, except it’s as deep as the oceans. It’s truly incredible. You can easily stop and view the icefield and the glaciers for free, but if you want to walk onto the glacier itself, you’ll have to pay for a Columbia Icefield tour. There are some unique walking tours as well, but for most people, the most popular thing to do is to the Glacier Adventure tour, which takes you on to the Athabasca Glacier via an all-terrain explorer. Some people may also call this area the Jasper Icefields, the Banff icefields, or even the Icefields Parkway Glacier, but the correct term is the Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefields.

To guarantee your spot on the tour, you’re going to want to book in advance. The tours run like clockwork, leaving every 20 minutes or so. They start at the Columbia Icefield Visitor Centre, which also has a hotel. Here you’ll find a souvenir shop, a small restaurant, an outdoor viewing area, and various tours. The Icefield Centre also has a help desk for planning your trip around the area.

Please note that this activity is closed during the winter months. You can still pull off and admire the view, but none of the lodging, restaurants, or activities are open. 

Glacier SkyWalk (Next to the Columbia Icefields) 

While some may call this the Glacier SkyWalk Banff, it’s actually located in Jasper National Park. The Glacier SkyWalk is a glass-floor bridge that hovers 918-feet above the valley floor. It’s right next to the Columbia Icefields and is included in some of the packages offered by Pursuit. For example, a popular thing to do is to combine the Glacier Adventure Tour with the SkyWalk. For those afraid of heights, this might be a thrill as well! Please note that this closed during the winter months. 

Time to allow: 1 hour or more. 

(Located 234km from Banff or 54km from Jasper)

While there are a number of hiking trails in the area, the most popular thing to do is to walk as far as the waterfall and just admire it for as long as you want. It’s extremely popular with photographers as it features a little island just before the waterfalls, creating a fork in the river that meets back up before tumbling over the fall. Although more spectacular in the summer, it’s also beautiful in the winter.

Time to allow: 30-minutes or more

(Located 257km from Banff or 32km from Jasper)

Another extremely popular spot with photographers and tourists, this is not only a beautiful waterfall but also a small canyon that cuts through the valley. With sunlight, the water is bright turquoise, resembling that of a tropical beach. In the winter, it looks totally different as it’s covered in snow, but still very much worth the stop. 

Time to allow: 45 minutes or more

Scenic Stops along the Icefields Parkway

There are so many beautiful lookout points along the way and we’ve listed the ones we feel you MUST DO. If you see lookout points along the way not listed here, please stop and look. There are a variety of lakes right along the highway, which are also wonderful places to spend some time. Also, when you begin to drive you a mountain, you’ll notice a place to pull off and admire the view. This is the view from the picture below and we highly recommend stopping here as well.

Jasper to Banff Itinerary

Once you’ve made it to Jasper, you’ll be greeted with even more spectacular views, scenery, activities, and wildlife, as well as a thriving little mountain town with an array of restaurants, coffee shops, pubs, and shops. For more on what to do, check out our 3-day itinerary for things to do in Jasper .

Where to Stay in Jasper

If you’re up for camping, there are plenty of options for Icefields Parkway camping. Keep in mind though that they fill up very fast. You’ll want to book months in advance, especially if you’re visiting in the summer. There’s also a couple of Icefields Parkway hotels, including Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Resort and the Glacier View Inn, which is also known as the Columbia Icefield hotel. If you’re looking to be in a town with more things to do, you’ll want to stay in Jasper or Banff. Our favourite place near Jasper is located on the Icefields Parkway just 10-minutes from Jasper. It’s called Becker’s Chalets .

There’s plenty of options for Icefields Parkway accommodation, whether you’re looking for a hotel, a campground, or a place to park your RV. However, please note that the summer is EXTREMELY BUSY. Do book in advance.

Driving Distances – Icefields Parkway Driving Guide

• Banff to Columbia Icefields = 185 km (approx 2.5 hours)
• Distance from Jasper to Banff = 288 km (approx 3.5 hours)
• Distance from Calgary to Jasper = 412 km (approx 5 hours)
• Jasper to Columbia Icefields = 103 km (approx 1.5 hours)
• Distance from Banff to Jasper = 288 km (approx 3.5 hours)
• Distance from Lake Louise to Jasper = 232 km (approx 3 hours)

What To in Banff and Jasper

Banff and Jasper are two of the most beautiful areas in all of Canada. Both are small mountain towns surrounded by towering mountains and jaw-dropping scenery. Banff is the most touristy of the two and is much more accessible. Banff or Jasper are great places to experience the outdoors, with a variety of activities including hiking, camping, skiing, rafting, and much more. The Banff Jasper highway alone is a spectacular thing to do.

For more things to do in the area, check out the following articles:

• Things To Do in Banff
• Things To Do in Calgary
• Things To Do in Alberta
• Banff Restaurants
• Calgary to Banff
• Edmonton to Jasper

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About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

October 18, 2018 at 12:54 am

Technically you can get gas at Saskatchewan Crossing. But it is a lousy stop for RV’s and the gas is SUPER expensive. The restaurant/general store also has tourist grade pricing so in a practical sense only stop there in an emergency.

Fill up at either Jasper or Banff for both food and gas.

Take your time and take in the scenery. Stay alert so you don’t hit wildlife or the occasional rock fall. And there is often cyclists on the side of the road during the summer.

October 18, 2018 at 2:55 am

Oh right! Totally forgot about that place. We always cruise by. But yeah, that’s true, plenty of places for those in an emergency, but much more sense to fill up in the towns.

November 2, 2018 at 12:31 am

I drove part of the Icefield Parkway a few years ago (from Banff to the Saskatchewan River Crossing). I think next spring/summer I need to do the whole thing. There are so many great places to stop at on this route.

November 2, 2018 at 4:24 pm

Totally, we always do it in a day, but next time I think we’ll do some hikes. Why did you go the crossing? Just for the drive?

November 2, 2018 at 12:55 am

Best trip I did so far!

November 2, 2018 at 4:23 pm

So many in Canada but this one is spectacular

November 2, 2018 at 4:34 pm

This is a great guide. Went to Jasper with the family for the first time last year and we are DEFINITELY going back!

November 2, 2018 at 6:26 pm

Thank you! We’re hoping to go in the winter for the first time!

February 18, 2020 at 3:50 am

We are staying in Lake Louise and trying to decide whether to go only as far as the Icefields Pkwy or to go on to Jasper. We have only about 24 hours (other days spent in the area). Thoughts?

February 18, 2020 at 4:16 pm

In the winter or summer? Well, it’s tough to say. I mean, the whole drive is really beautiful, as is Jasper. And the views from the Jasper Sky Tram are also incredible. But with 24 hours, it just comes down to how much time you want in the car. Up and back down the entire parkway without even stopping is 6 hours. So, toss in all the stops and any activities, and that might be a lot more. In the winter, it might take longer as well due to icy conditions.

November 2, 2018 at 9:41 pm

It’s amazing been here before when I was little, didn’t drive yet then but these are nice tips, hope to visit there again. Lake Louise is breath taking especially walking on it frozen over

November 2, 2018 at 11:13 pm

Where r u from? Yeah, we love it in the winter to. More quiet and still so beautiful

November 3, 2018 at 2:22 am

We have driven the Icefields Parkway in both directions, and each trip was different. It is well worth doing both ways!

November 3, 2018 at 2:19 pm

Totally. I love coming back down from Jasper to Lake Louise. I find it better that direction, though both are amazing of course

November 11, 2018 at 3:03 am

that picture is so gorgeous!! i can’t stop staring :’)

November 11, 2018 at 5:24 pm

I don’t blame you 🙂

August 23, 2020 at 11:50 am

Your site is very helpful and attractive. I’m probably just missing it, but I’m looking for information about traveling from Jasper to Banff by public transit or a tour company. Ideally I would like to find one that makes a stop for an couple of hours at the Ice Fields. Can you help?

August 24, 2020 at 9:40 am

Thank you! We’re constantly trying to make it better 🙂 There is a section on this page that says Banff to Jasper by Bus. Did you see that section?

November 15, 2020 at 2:51 pm

We will be traveling/visiting Banff and Jasper in late May with a rental car. Will the lake’s be frozen? Should we rent a 4/wheel drive?

November 16, 2020 at 2:37 pm

Mmmmm, it’s always hard to say as Alberta’s weather is so unpredictable. I believe the lake can possibly still be frozen, although likely not hard enough to walk on anymore. However, with the exception of Sunshine Resort, all other ski resorts close by end of April, which means the weather is too warm. So, it may or may not. But no, you wont need a 4×4. For the most part, the weather will be very mild, with maybe some light snowfalls or rain. But most of the winter requirements are done by April.

April 4, 2021 at 10:41 am

We went once and did the icefelds and the gondola it was fantastic would love to go again and see and do more.

April 5, 2021 at 2:46 pm

One of these days, one of these days🙏🏻🥰

April 23, 2021 at 3:17 pm

This is a great article, I can’t wait to try these tips out and see it all for myself!

May 25, 2021 at 4:17 pm

This stretch is on my bucket list. You guys provide so much info and I love the stops you added (including time one should take). I also like how one person commented on doing this twice- once in each direction. Fabulous idea. Stretch this adventure into a few days!

Can’t wait to be able to travel again and get back out to Alberta to do this.

August 17, 2021 at 11:57 am

I would love to visit so many places in Canada.

February 24, 2022 at 12:44 pm

I bicycled from Jasper to Banff fifty years ago and it was spectacular! My wife and I are planning the Rocky Mountaineer from Vancouver to Banff this September. The plan is to spend a day in Banff, then rent a car and go to Jasper, with one full day in Lake Louise. From Jasper we would drive to Calgary. Do you think one full day in Jasper is sufficient?

February 24, 2022 at 1:35 pm

Oh, nice! We love Jasper in the fall. I mean, you can certainly see the town and do an activity or two. But you can definitely do 2-3 nights in Jasper, as well. This might help: https://www.mustdocanada.com/things-to-do-in-jasper/

September 11, 2023 at 11:51 am

Thanks for the tips! We just visited from Boston, MA, USA and did the drive over two days. We drove from Fairmont Hot Springs, BC to Jasper and spent the night. Then we drove to Banff the next day. We stopped at the Athabasca Glacier and Falls the first day and had a nice dinner. The next morning we did the a 7km hike at The Valley of the Five Lakes which was beautiful! We also did some hikes at Lake Louise and Moraine, and some great small ones in Kootenay, Numa Falls, Paint Pots, and Marble Canyon. The Canyon was stunning! Can’t wait to visit again.

September 12, 2023 at 3:57 pm

Oh wow, sounds like quite the trip. You drove from Boston?

March 25, 2024 at 8:37 am

planning a milestone trip for thanksgiving weekend 2024. sounds like this is end of season…. are things usually open or closed that weekend? thinking 2 nights banff. drive and spend night in jasper drivr back to banff for another 2 night. too ambitious for that time of year?

March 25, 2024 at 12:53 pm

Canada’s thanksgiving in October? It’s still a great time. but yes, some things are closed. In Banff, everything will be open still. It’s just Jasper and I think it’s jus tthe sky tram that might eclosed. But its a wonderful drive and maybe you can time it with the Dark sKy Festival: https://www.mustdocanada.com/jasper-dark-sky-festival/

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The Best Winter Road Trip from Lake Louise To Jasper

Western Canada offers some truly amazing destinations — from the abundant wildlife, mesmerizing Canadian Rockies, thrilling adventures, and pristine lakes to charming mountain towns and warm-hearted people. Having spent two consecutive (American) Thanksgivings in Alberta 11/22-11/27, I’ve completely fallen in love with the area!

Alberta is incredibly popular in the summertime. However, when winter arrives, it transforms into a magical wonderland destination!

During my last visit, we primarily explored the enchanting town of Banff. This time, we opted for a road trip to venture further North! Check out my Banff Winter Guide here !

In this guide, I’ll be sharing my complete itinerary for the The Best Winter Road Trip from Lake Louise to Jasper. From how to get there, where to start and end, accommodations, and restaurants to must-see stops along the way, the coolest adventures, and everything you need to know before embarking on this unforgettable journey!

Why start in Lake Louise?

It’s conveniently accessible by flying into Calgary International Airport and starting your scenic drive, taking approximately two and a half hours. Along the route, you can make stops in Banff and Canmore, making the trip as captivating as the destination. The drive begins on flat terrain, and then out of nowhere, the giant mountains pop up — its truly amazing to see!

Lake Louise serves as the ideal starting point for your adventure. This quaint village caters to the desires of any outdoor enthusiast. Within the village, you’ll find Ski Lake Louise Resort, stunning Lake Louise, fun winter hikes, and an abundance of natural beauty. Also, the location places you in proximity to dozens of must-see destinations!

Where is Lake Louise Located?

Lake Louise is just a little outside of Banff (about 45 minutes) another very popular destination in Alberta. 

How far is Lake Louise from Jasper?

The journey from Lake Louise to Jasper takes approximately three hours, with the majority of the drive unfolding along the beautiful Icefields Parkway. This scenic route promises stunning sights that will leave you in awe! The picturesque landscapes encountered along the way make the experience unforgettable!

How many days do I need for this road trip?

Six days total to fit everything in! Two nights in each town and the other two days for travel.

Is it worth visiting in the winter months?

Yes!! 100% worth it. It looks like a winter wonderland straight out of a movie. You can still explore so many of the famous, must-see spots. Everything just looks magical with a fresh coat of snow and blue skies!

The Best Winter Travel Guide from Lake Louise To Jasper

How to get to Lake Louise?

Simply fly into Calgary International Airport. From there, embark on a little over a two-hour drive, winding your way towards the mountains! The anticipation builds as the landscape transforms into the most beautiful mountains!

Tip: be sure to rent a car from Calgary Airport. I recommend doing so ahead of time, rent a all-wheel-drive vehicle! We always rent with Enterprise in Calgary and they are great.

Are there ski resorts along this road trip?

Yes! Both Lake Louise and Jasper have really fun mountains in prime locations.

Lake Louise Ski Resort is a phenomenal mountain that truly captivates in the Lake Louise region! It has become an annual tradition for us to spend a day skiing here. If you need ski rentals, make sure to swing by Wilson Mountain Sports , conveniently situated in the village of Lake Louise, just a quick two-minute drive from the mountain.

Marmot Basin stands out as a wonderful mountain in Jasper! Nestled high atop a mountain, you’ll find yourself immersed in unparalleled beauty as you embrace the experience of skiing at this amazing mountain! The lofty setting adds an extra layer of excitement to your adventure in the heart of Jasper. If you need rentals, stop by Totem Ski Shop in downtown Jasper!

The Best Places to Stay in Lake Louise

Lake Louise has some really nice hotel options. I recommend booking your stay as early as possible to secure your dates and for best price.

The Mountaineer Lodge | @mountaineerlodge

The Mountaineer Lodge is the perfect place to stay during your time in Lake Louise!! It’s located only two minutes away from Ski Lake Louise Resort, you can walk to the convenient stores in town right across the street, and this hotel even offers a shuttle that will bring you to the mountain! We loved their complimentary breakfast every morning as well as their hot tub to soak in after a cold day on the mountain. Their rooms are very clean and the staff is great!

Lake Louise Inn | @lakelouiseinn

The Lake Louise Inn is also in a great location. This hotel is clean and has some restaurants on site which is really nice!

The Fairmont Château Lake Louise | @fairmontcll

The most beautiful and luxurious accommodation in Lake Louise! Guests here are pretty much staying in a castle on a stunning, world-renown lake.

The Best Places to Stay in Jasper

Jasper has options for everyone! These hotels are all in prime location-

The Mount Robson Inn | @mountrobsoninn

The Mount Robson Inn is a sister hotel to the Mountaineer Lodge which means it’s another awesome place to stay. Located within walking distance to restaurants and shops in downtown Jasper and only a short drive from Marmot Basin. The Mount Robson Inn also offers a delicious complimentary breakfast and they have two hot tubs outside! We loved our room here, very clean and comfortable and the staff were friendly.

Forest Park Hotel | @forestparkjasper

The Forest Park Hotel is another great option in downtown Jasper! Clean, stylish hotel with great food onsite.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | @fairmontjpl

We drove over to the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and it looked beautiful! When staying at a Fairmont Hotel you are guaranteed to have an amazing experience!

Must-see stops on the roadtrip from Lake Louise – Jasper

These are all doable! We visited them all during our roadtrip this November and everything was so beautiful. Here are all the must-see stops in order from Lake Louise to Jasper:

Lake Louise Ski Resort

Ski for the day at Lake Louise Ski Resort ! Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the most beautiful mountains I’ve ever skied with great terrain! The views in all directions are just stunning. We are from NH in United States and had a blast skiing in the Canadian Rockies! If you have the Ikon Pass this mountain is on it under Ski Big 3!

Check out the Powder Keg Lounge located upstairs of the main lodge, it’s a great place to grab lunch and a few drinks!

Western Canada has so many beautiful, bright blue lakes but Peyto Lake is unique! It’s shaped like the outline of a wolf! In the winter, a short hike is required to get to the lookout.

Park here and be sure to wear warm clothes and winter boots to do the short hike! It’s nothing crazy, just a walk up a little bit of incline, totally worth it for the view you will see!!

We got lucky this year, the lake still was not frozen over in late November when we visited. The snowy trees with the bright blue water made for the most amazing view! We felt lucky to see Peyto Lake in that short window before it freezes over!

Emerald Lake

A scene from an actual winter wonderland!! Try and visit here after a fresh snowfall on a clear, sunny day for the best photo opportunities!

Emerald Lake is actually located in British Columbia and to our surprise there is an entire lodge down by the lake- Emerald Lake Lodge and it’s so beautiful. Emerald Lake is a bit of a drive but totally worth it while staying in Lake Louise!

Bundle up, and set aside time to walk around the Lake. There are little paths you can follow to get different views of Emerald Lake. Walk up the road to the Lodge, and check it out! There are places you can stop by and grab a drink or a bite to eat up at the lodge.

Visit Lake Louise

The iconic Lake Louise is definitely a must-see while in the area! It’s amazing to see in person. There is a parking lot for guests visiting the lake, be sure to park there and not at the hotel. You can’t miss the stunning Fairmont Chateau the sits right next to the lake, an absolutely beautiful hotel.

To get the best views of Lake Louise possible, I recommend hiking to the Fairview Lookout!

The Fairview Lookout Hike is 1.5 miles total and takes about an hour to complete. The hike is so worth doing, even in the winter time. You hike up a pretty good incline which gets you the the best viewpoint! From there, you can see all of Lake Louise, the Chateau and the ski resort! The views are just beautiful.

We did the hike right around sunset and it made for beautiful colors in the sky. We wore winter boots, jeans, hat, mittens, base layers, and a winter coat. We felt warm enough, if you start out cold you should warm right up as you start the hike!

Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park is one of the most beautiful National Parks I’ve ever visited!

You do need a park pass for your vehicle which you can purchase at any of the gates you see while driving.

Emerald Lake is located in Yoho National Park as well as the Natural Bridge, both are accessible in the winter! Give yourself time to drive through the park and stop for lots of photo-ops.

Visit the town of Field

Located in British Columbia in Yoho National Park, you will pass by the town of Field. We pulled over to check out the Yoho National Park Visitor Center and then explored town.

Field is small, only about 200 residents and it’s so beautiful. In town you will find a restaurant, cafe, and some lodging options. There is no grocery store or any retail shops. It’s a special little mountain/railway town with trains still passing through multiple times each day. It’s the smallest town we saw during our time exploring Canada, I loved it!

Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic roads in the world. Hwy 93 is a scenic drive between Banff and Jasper, this is the road you will take to drive from Lake Louise to Jasper- it’s amazing!

Check the weather ahead of time and make sure it’s a sunny and safe day to drive. The drive nonstop takes just under three hours. Give yourself way more time than that!

With this being one of the most scenic roads in the world, you are more than likely going to want to pullover a handful of times for photos!

This is the route you will take when you travel from Lake Louise up to Jasper.

Abraham Lake

This is an absolute must see!! I cannot even begin to explain the beauty of this lake! And one of the best parts is that we were the only people there! (as far as we could see).

You can’t really go wrong with the timing of when you visit this lake. We hit it when the surrounding area was snow covered but the lake not quit frozen yet, making the blue water really pop!

Abraham Lake is known for its ice bubbles that are typically best to see January- February.

Be sure to make the stop to check out Abraham Lake while on your drive along the Icefields Parkway!

Marmot Basin

Marmot Basin is a ski resort located in Alberta’s Jasper National Park!

Marmot Basin sits high up in the mountains giving you some amazing terrain to ski and beautiful views of the mountains in all directions.

The ski resort is located just outside of downtown Jasper. You can make this a stop along your drive on the Icefields Parkway or come back and visit for a day while staying in Jasper.

The drive up to the mountain took longer than we thought, it’s really up there!

If you like to ski, set aside a day or half a day at this mountain! You will have a blast!! If you need rentals, rent from Totem Ski Shop in downtown Jasper.

Malgine Canyon

Malgine Canyon is a slot canyon located in the National Park not far outside of downtown Jasper. In the winter you can rent spikes and hike down into it! It’s highly recommended to wear spikes because of how icy it gets in there. You can rent ice spikes from Totem Ski Shop in downtown Jasper!

You can find guided tours in town to do the ice walk if you are interested but it’s also very doable on your own with the correct gear!

The trail is very easy to follow, you can download AllTrails if you want to track the hike!

Sunwapta Falls

A magnificent waterfall!! A 2.0 out and back style hike that is doable in the winter months!

Spikes and warm gear are recommended for Sunwapta Falls . The hike in the winter time is stunning! The bright blue water with the snow surrounding is a must see sight.

Track your hike using AllTrails !

Athabasca Falls 

The Athabasca Falls hike is an absolute must do!

It’s on .6 mile out and back, very easy for high-reward views!

We did this one in late November and did not wear spikes, just winter boots and were fine. Be sure to bundle up for the hike though.

Athabasca Falls are amazing to see in person with the thick ice freezing all around making the color of the water extra vibrant!

Take a helicopter flight with Jasper Hinton Air

In my opinion, this is the best way to see Jasper!

We did the 30 minute tour with Kristie and it was absolutely amazing! She took us on a ride through the mountains while being the ultimate tour guide.

Reach out to Jasper Hinton Air when you arrive in Jasper, tell them what kind of tour you want to do, how many people, and which days work for you. They will help you find the best time for a clear day for flying!

I highly recommend doing this! Her prices are very fair and you will have the experience of a lifetime!

View wildlife

Jasper National Park is where we saw the most wildlife during our time in Canada. There is high possibility you will see it anywhere between Lake Louise and Jasper so always be on alert, especially while driving.

Explore the areas just outside of downtown Jasper, we saw big horn sheep, elk, deer, and more!

Be sure to always keep a good distance away and respect the animals, this is their home.

Best Restaurants in Lake Louise

• Trailhead Cafe : Coffee and breakfast
• Powder Keg Lounge : A fun sports bar located at the base of Lake Louise Ski Resort. They have great food and drinks! Stop in for lunch, even if you aren’t skiing!
• Kuma Yama : Ramen and Sushi also located at the base of Lake Louise Ski Resort!
• Travel into Banff for dinner: The drive to Banff is about 40 minutes. Downtown Banff has lots of great options for dinner.
• Timberwolf Pizza & Pasta : Located inside Lake Louise Inn you will find the perfect place to get dinner! We loved the pizza and beers here plus the staff are very nice.

Best Restaurants in Jasper

• Bear Paw Bakery : Coffee, delicious pastries, breakfast, & lunch
• De’d Dog’s Bar & Grill : Local spot with pub food
• Jasper Brewing Company : Brewery with great beers & food- lunch or dinner
• Terra : Beautiful restaurant, farm and forage, amazing cocktails, good vegan + vegetarian options
• Folding Mountain Brewing : about 40 min outside of downtown Jasper, we went here after helicoptor tour, amazing food and beers- we loved this place!

Lake Louise/Jasper Travel Tips

• Wake up early to get the most out of your day! There is so much to do/see you want to utilize all hours with sunlight.
• Exchange some currency before you come, all of Canada uses CAD.
• Always make sure you gas tank is full before starting the drives.
• Check the weather and keep an eye out for any snow storms, try and avoid driving during any big ones.
• Dress warm!! It gets COLD here in the winter months and all of the cool things you want to explore are outdoors, be prepared with many layers.
• Flying drones is illegal in most places and if you get caught there are hefty fines.
• People are friendly in both towns we explored.
• It’s custom to tip 15-20% at restaurants.

Where to fly home from

We decided to fly out of Edmonton International Airport- the drive from downtown Jasper to Edmonton Airport is about four hours.

You also have the option to fly back out of Calgary airport which is just under five hours.

The photo below is the route we took- we started at Calgary International airport, spent a couple of nights in Lake Louise at the Mountaineer Lodge. We then drove up the Icefields Parkway to Jasper and spent a couple of nights at the Mount Robson Inn then flew home out of Edmonton International Airport.

We made many stops along the way for exploring and adventuring! I really liked this route.

Enjoy your winter road trip adventure from Lake Louise to Jasper! I really hope this guide has been helpful for you. There is so much beauty to be seen and explored from the areas of Lake Louise to Jasper. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you are going to have the time of your life!

If you have any questions about this roadtrip, the towns, or anything in the nearby areas please ask!

Follow along with me on  Instagram  where I am most active with all of my adventures!

Up next: check out my Banff Winter Travel Guide!

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Hello there! It's wonderful to have you here. I'm Sierra, a NH native with a love for travel and adventure. I have a constant desire to explore beautiful places around the world and go on awesome adventures! I seek to inspire others to travel to see all the beauty and culture the world has to offer! 🌞⛰️🌼🫶🏼🦋🌲📸🥾💛

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BEST Banff Jasper Itinerary for 5 to 7 days: Canadian Rockies Road Trip (2024)

Looking for the ultimate Banff and Jasper itinerary for your Canadian Rockies road trip?

The Canadian Rockies are home to the most famous national parks of Canada – Banff National Park and Jasper National Park.

The snow-covered, jagged mountain peaks, alpine blue lakes, mighty glaciers, powerful waterfalls, and abundant wildlife are absolutely breathtaking. No words can describe the feeling of experiencing the Canadian Rockies!

I recently spent the most amazing seven days in Banff and Jasper National Parks and Canadian Rockies with my family.

We explored all the sights and best things to do in Banff . We were awed by the beautiful Lake Louise and Moraine Lake . We experienced the stops on Icefields Parkway Drive and walked on the Athabasca Glacier. The lakes at Jasper were beautiful.

It was the most scenic vacation destination ever, and we were in constant awe of the postcard-perfect scenery at every turn.  In this article, uncover the perfect itinerary to see Banff, Jasper, and Canadian Rockies in 7 days.

➡ In a hurry and looking for the best recommendations for your Canadian Rockies itinerary? Below are the top excursions for Banff-Jasper:

• Columbia Icefield Glacier and Skywalk combo tour – most popular thing to do near Banff!
• Lake Louise and Icefields Parkway day tour from Banff – Includes Moraine Lake!
• Banff Gondola round trip admission ticket – must do in Banff.
• 1-hour Lake Minnewanka Cruise in Banff
• Maligne Lake Cruise – most popular thing to do in Jasper.
• 1-hour horseback riding along Bow river in Banff (beginner-friendly)
• Banff Food tour at Fairmont Banff Springs – perfect for foodies and history buffs

➡ For rental car , check rates and availability with Discover Cars for best rates

➡ Top Hotel Recommendations :

• Banff – Moose Hotel and Suites (mid-range) | Fairmont Banff Springs and Rimrock Resort (luxury)
• Lake Louise – Lake Louise Inn (mid-range) | Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (luxury)
• Jasper – The Crimson , Tekarra Lodge (mid-range) | Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (luxury)

7 day Banff and Jasper itinerary with Lake Louise and Icefields Parkway

Following is a preview of my seven-day Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary:

• Day 0 – Arrive at Calgary airport the night before or early morning.
• Day 1 – Icefields Parkway drive from Banff to Jasper. Stay overnight in Jasper.
• Day 2 – Explore Jasper National Park, and stay overnight in Jasper.
• Day 3 – Columbia Icefields Glacier tour and Icefields Parkway drive back from Jasper to Lake Louise, stay overnight in Lake Louise.
• Day 4 – Explore Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Arrive in Banff, and stay overnight in Banff.
• Day 5, 6, and 7- Explore Banff National Park, and stay overnight in Banff for the remaining days.

This Banff to Jasper road trip itinerary is for seven days, but you can easily customize it to a 5 day Banff and Jasper Itinerary by reducing the days for exploring Banff towards the end.

You can also make a day trip from Banff to Lake Louise and not stay overnight at Lake Louise. I will explain later in the article how you can customize this itinerary for 5 days in Banff Jasper!

• Day 1: Banff to Jasper via Icefields Parkway scenic drive

On Day 1 of our Banff to Jasper road trip Itinerary, we will explore the Icefields Parkway scenic drive and all the amazing stops and vista points on it.

We stayed overnight in Calgary and then started the next day morning for our Canadian Rockies road trip from Banff to Jasper. Plan to stay in Calgary for a day or two to explore the city.

After checkout from our Calgary hotel, we started on our scenic journey to Jasper. After about an hour’s drive, we stopped in Canmore downtown for lunch. This is where we first saw the snow-covered Canadian Rockies and were so impressed by them.

I remember wondering how the Icefields parkway drive would be any different from this view right here in Canmore.

I had no idea how much unspoiled natural beauty and wonder was in store for us in the next 7 days! That Rockies view in Canmore was just a teaser to everything that we were going to experience.

Icefields Parkway scenic drive from Banff to Jasper

The drive between Lake Louise and Jasper is the scenic Icefields Parkway drive which is rightly named one of the top 10 drives in the world.

➡ Short on time and do not wish to stay overnight in Jasper? You can also opt for this Small group day tour from Banff that covers Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Icefields Parkway Drive .

Every bend in the road brings terrific scenery that is postcard perfect. As we went in early June, there was a lot of snow on the mountains, and the white snow contrasted splendidly with the dark, jagged mountain peaks. 

The entire drive is around 3 hours without any stops, but there are so many views and vistas along the way that cannot be missed. You should plan a whole day for the Icefields Parkway Drive.

If you start early in the day, you can make all the stops on the same day or keep some for the return drive back to Banff.

We stopped at all the viewpoints on our way to Jasper. We kept the Icefields Parkway glacier and Skywalk tour for the return drive as that was a 3-hour tour. 

Spotting wildlife along Icefields Parkway drive

Just when we left Lake Louise and started the drive on the Icefields Parkway, we spotted a black bear on the side of the road! We were so excited to see a bear on our first day.

We looked from our car at a distance and did not disturb it in any way, and it kept on eating the roadside vegetation.

Keep your eyes on the road and alongside for any wildlife spotting. If you see a car stopped on the side of the road, there is a high chance they have spotted some wildlife, so make sure to look around.

We saw two black bears, a family of bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and elk. Make sure to keep your distance from the animals and not disturb them.

Must do Stops along the Icefield Parkway

When you purchase the Parks Canada pass at the entrance to Banff National Park, they will provide you with a booklet with a map of the Icefields Parkway.

We used that map to find the stops along the way. There are signs alongside the road that match the order on the map, which makes it easy to know which stop to expect next. 

Most stops are just quick views from the parking lot, but some need short walks/hikes to reach the waterfalls and viewpoints.

I will mention this in the individual stop descriptions below. Depending on the time you have in hand, you can do all of them or keep some for the drive back. 

➡ The most popular stop on Icefields Parkway is the Columbia Icefields Center, where you can take a Columbia Icefield Glacier and Skywalk combo tour and walk on the Athabasca Glacier!

Bow Lake viewpoint

This lake can be viewed right from the parking lot, which is on the Icefields Parkway. As we went in early June, Bow Lake was still frozen.

It was a sight to behold as I had never seen a frozen lake before (Even though I live four hours drive away from Lake Tahoe in California!) Bow Lake was beautiful, with the snow-covered mountains in the backdrop.

Peyto Lake Upper Viewpoint

This viewpoint needs a little hike to reach. It is around a 15-minute hike on each side, so allow a total of 45 minutes for this stop.

In early June, this trail was covered in snow, and it was raining, so we had to skip this one. But we are told that this viewpoint has a postcard-perfect view and is a must. 

Waterfowl Lake viewpoint

This lake can be viewed right from the parking lot and is just a 30-minute drive away from Bow Lake.

We were amazed to see that this lake was not frozen as opposed to Bow Lake, which was still frozen.  It was drizzling and foggy, but it still was beautiful. 

Saskatchewan river crossing

There is a café, gas station, and restrooms at this stop. It’s about midway on the Icefields Parkway and the last stop to fill gas before you reach Jasper.

I highly recommend filling gas in Banff or Jasper as it can be expensive here. We stopped at the café store for some snacks for the road. 

Weeping wall

We didn’t see any sign for this one, but it’s hard to miss. A huge roadside mountain with many small waterfalls, which probably gave it this unique name. You can see this stop from the roadside. 

Big bend viewpoint

This viewpoint shows a panoramic view of the curvy Icefields Parkway Drive. You will have to look out for this one as it is on the top of the curve of a windy road you just drove on and is easy to miss.

I did not find this viewpoint listed in the map booklet either. This will be on your side of the road while you drive from Banff to Jasper. 

Icefields Glacier and Skywalk tour

The Athabasca Glacier is on Icefields Parkway Drive. It is around 2 hours from Banff and 1 hour from Jasper. 

The Columbia Icefields adventure tour company runs tours from mid-May to mid-October. The exact operating dates each year are weather-dependent. The whole tour, including the Skywalk, takes around 3 hours.

➡ If you are driving yourself, check rates and availability for the Columbia Icefield Glacier and Skywalk combo tour , a not to miss experience on Icefields Parkway!

This is a must for anyone visiting this region as it is a unique experience to walk on the Athabasca glacier, a 10,000-year-old sheet of ice.

➡ Looking for a day tour from Banff to the Icefields Glacier? This highly-rated small group Athabasca Glacier tour from Banff includes transport, admission to the Columbia Icefields Glacier tour and Skywalk, and a picnic lunch.

We saved this tour for Day 3 for our return drive to Banff. Read about our Athabasca Glacier and Skywalk experience on Day 3 of this itinerary below.

Sunwapta Falls

The next stop very close to Jasper is Sunwapta Falls. The falls can be viewed from a platform very close to the parking lot, so not much walking is required. The falls were rushing and gorgeous. We stopped here for just 10 minutes to admire the falls. 

Athabasca falls

The final stop in our scenic drive is Athabasca Falls. These falls are more massive and powerful than the Sunwapta Falls, and there is a nice boardwalk built to see the falls from different viewpoints.

This is around 30 minutes drive from Jasper and a must-see. The trail is short, easy, and very scenic. It can be completed in a 15 to 20 minute stroll. 

Stay overnight in Jasper

We finally reached Jasper after an amazing day and checked into Tekarra Lodge . It’s a beautiful lodge 5 minutes from Jasper town, along the river, with excellent views. We had a two-bedroom cottage with a kitchen and enough space to spread out. The lodge had a campfire and s’mores night!

Day 2: Exploring Jasper National Park

On Day 2 of our 7 days in the Canadian Rockies, we will explore Jasper National Park and its top tourist attractions. There are so many things to do in Jasper National Park !

In the morning, complete a spectacular hike on the Maligne Canyon, followed by a visit to Maligne Lake and Medicine Lake. In the evening, take the Jasper Skytram to see panoramic views of Jasper National Park from the top of Whistler Mountain. 

➡ Looking for a tour from Jasper to Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake? This highly-rated small group Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise from Jasper includes the Maligne Canyon hike, Maligne Lake cruise, Medicine Lake, and scenic stops.

Maligne canyon hike

Our first stop is Maligne Canyon. It’s around 15 minutes drive from Jasper downtown. It is a spectacular limestone canyon created by waterfalls and is a sight to see.

There are several trails here for people of all abilities to view the canyon and the waterfalls. There are six bridges built over the Maligne Canyon, and there are parking lots at the main canyon or near the first bridge, fifth bridge, and sixth bridge.

The most common way to see the falls with minimum hiking is to park at the main parking lot, where there is a restaurant, café, and restrooms. From there, you can start your hike and walk up to the second or third bridge, depending on your time availability. This area is also the most crowded. 

Another popular and recommended path is to park at the fifth bridge or sixth bridge and walk to the first bridge. This way, you walk up towards the flow of the water and save the most dramatic falls viewing for the end.

If you park at the sixth bridge, it’s a much longer hike. We parked at the fifth bridge to shorten our hike and walked our way up. It drizzled slightly, which helped with the incline hike and kept us cool. 

At the top, we ate at the Maligne Wilderness Kitchen café and started down again to reach the parking lot at the fifth bridge. We took the same route to go down alongside the river.

There are some alternate paths as well, which are steeper. It was a very scenic and refreshing hike to start our day in Jasper.

It was Monday morning in early June, but it was still very crowded near the first to third bridges. Crowds thin out as you go further down. 

In the winter, the water freezes over, and they have tours to walk inside the frozen canyon. How amazing that would be! I have seen some pictures of the frozen waterfall, and they are mind-blowing. It’s like the water is frozen in time! 

➡ If you are visiting Jasper and Maligne Canyon during the winter months of December to March, check out this highly-rated small group Maligne Canyon Ice Walk tour – walk inside a frozen canyon and see frozen waterfalls up close!

Lake Maligne

After the Maligne Canyon, we drove further on Maligne Road to see Maligne Lake. It’s a 30-minute drive from Maligne Canyon. It’s a beautiful secluded road with chances to spot wildlife.

On the way to Maligne Lake, you will come across Medicine Lake and Medicine Lake viewpoint, which is an excellent stop from which to take photos.

Finally, we reached Maligne Lake, the parking lot was huge, and there were many people there.

Unfortunately, the Maligne Lake was still frozen, and the cruise was not operating yet. But even the frozen Maligne Lake is stunning. There is a boardwalk on which to walk to see the beautiful lake. Maligne Lake is a very long, narrow lake between mountain ranges.

The Maligne Lake Cruise is 1.5 hours long and takes you near Spirit Island, where you can take pictures of the beautiful island. If visiting between June and October, you should definitely go on the Maligne Lake Cruise.

➡ Check rates and availability for Maligne Lake Cruise tickets

Jasper Skytram

In the evening, we drove to the Jasper Skytram, which is a ten-minute drive from Jasper downtown. We boarded the Jasper Skytram and headed up to Whistler Mountain .

The Skytram takes groups of people at a time and is a 7-minute ride. There is a restaurant at the upper station. The upper Skytram station and the Whistler mountain peak are visible from almost everywhere in Jasper. It’s hard to miss. 

Once you exit the upper station building, the mountaintop is very raw and welcoming. There are no boardwalks here, just a vast space to walk on and explore.

There is a Summit trail that is around a mile long but has a lot of elevation. In early June, there was still a lot of snow on the trails. We just looked around at the views but did not try to hike in the snow. 

The panoramic views from the mountaintop are magical and therapeutic. You can gaze at several mountain ranges and see the entire mountain town of Jasper, the Valley of the Five Lakes , Beauvert Lake , Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, and many more turquoise-blue lakes and rivers. 

➡ Check rates and availability for Jasper Skytram tickets

After these incredible views, we called it a day and returned to our hotel. 

Miette Hot Springs

Alternate Itinerary tip for Day 2: Instead of Jasper Skytram, you can also visit the Miette Hot Springs after Maligne Lake and visit Jasper Skytram on Day 3 morning.

Miette Hot Springs is an hour’s drive north of Jasper, so it’s best to fit it on the day when you are staying in Jasper for the night. 

Miette hot springs feature the hottest hot springs in the Canadian Rockies. The natural mineral water in these pools flows from the mountains and is cooled to around 40 degrees Celsius or 104 Fahrenheit. 

They have showers and changing rooms here, and you can rent towels. If you have time after the hot springs, you can take a short stroll to the source of the hot springs, where the water is at the original hotter temperature. 

• Day 3: Columbia Icefields Glacier tour and Icefields Pkwy to Lake Louise

On Day 3 of our Jasper to Banff road trip, we will explore Jasper downtown in the morning and then drive back on Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise. If you did not take the Columbia Icefields Glacier tour during your road trip from Banff to Jasper, you should do it now.

Jasper downtown

After checkout, we stopped at the Jasper downtown for some food before starting our journey back on the Icefields Parkway.

The Jasper mountain town is bustling with hotels, lodges, and restaurants. The Jasper train station and the train tracks run parallel to the town. 

Columbia Icefields Glacier tour and Skywalk

Around an hour’s drive from Jasper towards Lake Louise, you will reach the Columbia Icefields Center, where you can take a Glacier tour to walk on the Athabasca Glacier!

➡ Check rates and availability for the Columbia Icefield Glacier and Skywalk combo tour and walk on the Athabasca Glacier!

The entire tour is nicely organized. The Icefield Center has good facilities, a restaurant, and even a Starbucks to get some hot chocolate and snacks after the tour. 

Athabasca glacier tour experience

First, you board a tour bus which takes you to the foot of the glacier and is a 10-minute ride, and then you change and board the massive Ice Explorer vehicle. These special vehicles are amazing and have the most enormous tires I have ever seen.

Our driver was really knowledgeable and gave a lot of good information about the Athabasca Glacier and the Ice Explorer vehicle. The vehicle goes down a very steep grade road, and it’s an extraordinary experience. Then it continues to drive on the glacier ice! 

We were given around 15-20 minutes on the glacier. The ice is very slippery, but the views are mind-blowing. This was our family’s first experience walking on a glacier, and it was so cool!

It was very cold and windy on the glacier, so bring jackets, winter caps, and gloves. The glacier experience totally made our day and was the most memorable part of our trip. 

➡ Looking for a day tour from Banff to the Icefields Glacier? This highly-rated small group Athabasca Glacier tour from Banff includes transport from Banff and tickets to the Columbia Icefields Glacier tour and Skywalk and a picnic lunch.

Skywalk experience

After the glacier experience, you board the tour bus again, and they take you to the Skywalk experience. The Skywalk has a glass floor and has jaw-dropping views of the Sunwapta Valley below. The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains are breathtaking. 

Stay overnight in Lake Louise

We made several stops on the Icefields Parkway before we reached our hotel at Lake Louise.

We stayed at Lake Louise Inn . It was a very good hotel, and the lobby was impressive. It had several restaurants, including a pizzeria. We ordered a pizza and called it a night.

Day 4: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

On Day 4 of our Canadian Rockies itinerary, explore Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, the most beautiful lakes in the world!

➡ Looking for a day tour from Banff to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake? This highly-rated small group Lake Louise and Icefields Parkway tour from Banff includes Moraine Lake (seasonal), Lake Minnewanka in Banff, Bow Lake, and Peyto Lake on Icefields Parkway as well!

Lake Louise

This is the most famous lake in the Canadian Rockies. Before I saw this lake, I was wondering what all the hype was about. We had already seen so many amazing lakes on this trip. How different can it be? 

We visited this lake in early June. A couple of days before, I checked the live webcams, and the lake was still partly frozen. I was hoping we would get to see the turquoise blue waters that it’s famous for. We got so lucky! The weather warmed up the day before, and the lake was fully melted!

Parking at Lake Louise

As Lake Louise is a must-do for anyone visiting the Canadian Rockies and Banff, the parking lot fills up pretty fast, sometimes before sunrise, especially in the summer months of July and August .

We went in early June on a Wednesday and reached there around 8 am. The parking lot was huge, but it seemed like the whole world was there! Luckily we got parking. In the busy months of July and August, the parking fills up very early in the morning, sometimes before sunrise! 

There is a shuttle service that runs between Lake Louise Park and Ride and Lake Louise And Lake Moraine. Reservations are highly recommended during July and August and can be made on the Parks Canada website . 

Lake Louise views

After exiting the parking lot, it is a very short walk to Lake Louise Lakeshore. It was a most breathtaking sight.

The turquoise blue water of the lake, the Victoria glacier, the majestic mountains backdrop, and the Fairmont Chateau Hotel , which stood like a crown, added to the beauty of the scene. It was indeed the most stunning scenery! 

Lake Louise Lakeshore trail

It was drizzling slightly that morning, and we walked the Lakeshore trail. This is an almost flat, out-and-back trail on the right side of the lake along the shore that takes you to the other end of the lake.

The view of the Fairmont Hotel from the other end is magnificent. The total trail is around 3 miles out and back. It is very busy at the start of the trail but the crowds thin out in the latter half. It’s a beautiful walk with picture-perfect scenery. 

Afternoon tea at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

While researching for our trip, I came across the Afternoon tea at the Fairmont , and I knew my girls would love it. It is expensive, but as we had never tried an afternoon tea experience before, we decided to splurge for it.

They have a regular menu, a vegetarian/vegan menu, and a children’s menu. The tea experience menu has three categories – Scones, Savories, and desserts.

The server showed us the tea menu, and they had a lot of options. Their tea special that day was the Masala chai, and we definitely opted for that. We each got our own teapots. The girls tried herb teas. 

Our three-tiered trays arrived loaded with food. The presentation was top-notch. The top tray had scones and an assortment of custards, jams, and marmalades.

The middle tray had the savories, and the bottom tray had the desserts. We had a lot of fun trying everything and sharing it with each other. The masala chai was welcoming as it was cold and drizzling outside. 

For my girls, this tea experience was the highlight of their trip. I was so glad we decided to try it!

Lake Agnes Teahouse hike

Alternate itinerary tip: If you are up for a more moderately challenging hike, the Lake Agnes trail that leads to the Lake Agnes teahouse is a very popular trail in Lake Louise.

This trail had a lot of deep snow in early June, so we did not attempt it. But from July onwards it should be doable.

The trail starts from the Lake Louise lakeshore area.  It is around 5 miles out and back with 1,427 feet of elevation gain. The teahouse is very busy during the summer months, and there are lines out the door! 

Moraine lake

After feasting our eyes on the incredible Lake Louise, we went to Lake Moraine. It’s around a 30-minute drive from Lake Louise.

I was not sure how Lake Moraine could match the view we had just experienced at Lake Louise and was expecting it to be just a quick stop. Moraine Lake was so beautiful and so worth it! Do not miss this!

Note: Starting in 2023, you cannot drive your personal vehicle to Moraine Lake in an attempt to reduce parking congestion. You have to either make advance reservations on the Parks Canada Shuttle, use the ROAM Transit bus, or use a commercial transport provider like Hop-on Hop-off Banff Bus or a day tour from Banff .

When we reached Lake Moraine, it was a winter wonderland! The lake was still solid frozen with snow on it, and everyone was playing in the snow. It was amazing.

There is a massive rock pile on one end, the lake in the middle, and snow-covered mountains around it. There are steps on the back side of the rock pile to reach the top. From the top of the rock pile, you will enjoy picture-perfect views of Moraine Lake.

What to do at Moraine Lake

Apart from admiring the views at Moraine Lake, other popular activities here are hiking , canoeing , and paddleboarding .

The Lake Moraine Lakeshore Trail is a great easy walk to admire the views of the lake and the surrounding mountain ranges. The short hike to the top of the rock pile also will reward you with excellent views!

Sunrise and sunset at Moraine Lake

If you are staying overnight in Lake Louise and are up for waking up super early, many folks go to Lake Moraine at sunrise to take pictures. I heard it gets very crowded, and people are waiting with tripods everywhere to take the perfect sunrise shot.

But keep in mind the sunrise in that region during the summer months is around 5:30 AM, and sunset is around 10 PM. Both times were not doable for us, so we just went in the early evening. 

Note: Starting in 2023, you can no longer drive to Moraine Lake in your personal vehicle. Commercial vehicles are still allowed. Parks Canada Shuttle does not operate before 6 AM. The only way to go to Moraine Lake for sunrise viewing would be through a commercial operator.

Drive back to Banff

After a fantastic day at Lake Louise and Lake Moraine and a lifetime of memories, we started for our Banff hotel. 

We stayed at the Moose hotel and suites in Banff town. We had a comfortable suite with a separate living room. The location was perfect, and we could walk to all the restaurants and stores downtown.

Day 5: Banff Gondola and Banff Hot Springs

On Day 5 of our 7 days in Banff itinerary, we will explore the two most popular Banff National Park attractions – Banff Gondola and Banff Hot Springs.

Banff Gondola

In the morning, we headed to the Banff gondola. It’s around a 12-minute drive from Banff downtown. There is a free shuttle to Banff Gondola from downtown, and it’s highly recommended to use the shuttle during the peak summer months as parking can be limited at the Gondola.

➡ Check rates and availability for Banff Gondola tickets

The lower gondola station was very crowded. There is a huge Starbucks at the lower station and restroom facilities. Our gondola time was 12:10 PM, but the boarding line was quite long, and it took us another 30 minutes to board the gondola. 

The Banff gondola takes you up the Sulfur Mountain. Each gondola car can seat four people comfortably. You can split into multiple cars if you have a larger group.

The views going up on the Gondola are really mind-blowing, and I am always amazed at the construction marvel of how high the gondolas take us. 

The upper gondola station is huge, with three levels. There are two restaurants, a coffee shop, a theater, a souvenir shop, an excellent upstairs terrace for 360-degree views, and restrooms.

Once you exit the upper station, there is an easy boardwalk trail that goes all the way to Sanson’s Peak and the historic Cosmic Ray station.

The boardwalk trail is a little less than 2 miles and is worth doing because of the incredible views of the surrounding mountain peaks, Banff town, turquoise blue lakes, and Bow Valley.  The Cosmic Ray station at the other end of the trail is a fascinating piece of history.  

Banff Upper Hot Springs

Banff hot springs are right across the Banff Gondola, and it makes sense to visit both of them on the same day. If you visited the Miette Hot Springs in Jasper, then you can skip this one and do some hiking instead or explore Banff downtown. 

The waters of Banff hot springs are heated geothermally and are mineral rich. The hot springs are very crowded as people love to sit and relax in the healing and therapeutic mineral-rich water.

The facilities have restrooms, showers, locker rooms, and towel rentals. There is also a café to enjoy some snacks afterward. 

A local tip is to visit the hot springs in the early morning instead of the evening for a more relaxing and less crowded experience.

Day 6: Lake Minnewanka and Johnston Canyon in Banff

On Day 6 of our Banff Itinerary, we will explore Lake Minnewanka and Johnston Canyon lower and upper falls in Banff National Park.

Lake Minnewanka 

In the morning, we went to Lake Minnewanka. We had a cruise time of noon booked. We were able to find parking, but there is a free shuttle that runs from Banff downtown if you have a cruise ticket. 

➡ Check rates and availability for Lake Minnewanka cruise tickets

Lake Minnewanka is a large glacial lake around 21 kilometers (13 miles long) and is a very popular lake in summer for hiking, biking, fishing, diving, canoeing, and boating. There are canoe and boat rentals available, café, picnic tables, and restrooms. 

It was a beautiful sunny day, and the turquoise water of the lake shone with the sun’s rays. The mountain ranges, and the alpine forests around it provided the perfect backdrop. 

Once you check in at the gift shop ticket counter, you get pre-assigned seats for the boat. Our boat cruise staff was a skilled boat captain and a tour guide that told us all about the history of the lake and the surrounding mountains. 

The lake was called Minn-waki (Lake of the Spirits) because the people respected and feared the lake for its resident spirits. There are historic artifacts thousands of years old, buried at Lake Minnewanka shores, that are protected. 

There is a buried resort town in the lake, Minnewanka Landing , which was submerged when a dam built in 1941 raised the water level by 30 meters. How cool is that!

The boat cruise takes you near the Devil’s gap , which is an opening between the mountain ranges. The boat has a small deck in the back, and you can enjoy the panoramic scenery from there. 

Overall it was a very relaxing and informative cruise, and an hour went by too fast. After the cruise, if you are up for it, you can hike the Minnewanka Lakeside trail . We were planning to hike the Johnston Canyon later that day so we skipped the hike. 

We headed back to Banff downtown for lunch. 

Johnston Canyon hike and waterfalls

After lunch, we went to Johnston Canyon to see the waterfalls. It’s around a 30-minute drive from Banff downtown. This is the most famous hike in Banff, and it’s very popular and crowded. The Johnston Canyon is carved by thousands of years of water erosion, and the views are phenomenal. 

The Johnston Canyon hike has three levels . Johnston Canyon hike to the lower falls is 1.4 miles out and back with 344 feet of elevation. This is the easiest trail, and most people should be able to do this.

From the lower falls, the hike to the upper falls is another 1.8 miles and 500 feet elevation. The crowds here are much less than on the lower falls trail.

After the upper falls, the hike to the Ink Pots is very strenuous, with another 4 miles and around 1100 feet elevation. We did the hike up to the Upper Falls. 

We reached Johnston Canyon in the evening around 5 PM. In Summer, we prefer hikes in the late afternoons as the weather cools down a bit and gets more pleasant. The crowds are also lesser in the evenings than in the mornings on popular hikes. 

The parking lot is huge and free. During the busy summer months, an alternative is to take the ROAM Public Transit Route 9 from Banff to avoid parking issues. 

You can also use the Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus to travel between Banff, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake.

Johnston Canyon hike to the Lower Falls

We started our ascent to the lower falls along a paved trail. The trail started out in a forest setting and then through boardwalks along the canyon. Johnston Creek is next to the trail almost the entire time.

The lower falls arrived in less than 30 minutes and were spectacular. There is a tunnel cut across a canyon rock to see the falls up close. There might be a line to get across the tunnel, but the view of the falls from the tunnel is worth the wait! You can feel the mist of the water inside the cave.

Johnston Canyon hike to the Upper Falls

Next, we started for the upper falls. This part is a bit tiring, and there is some incline. My kids wanted to give up, but we kept them going. Finally, we reached the upper falls in another 40 minutes or so. We were so glad we pushed ourselves! 

The upper falls are truly awe-inspiring. Watching the water cascade down from such a height is a humbling experience. There were still some ice sheets on the sides of the canyon, and it was quite cool up there.

There is a viewing platform constructed along the canyon that offers breathtaking views of the upper falls. After completing the hike, the mist from the waterfall was a welcome relief.

Descending was quite effortless, and we reached the parking lot in just about 30 minutes. The entire hike lasted between 2 to 3 hours. Make sure to carry enough water for the hike. 

There is a restaurant at the base of the Johnston Canyon, a gift shop, and restrooms. 

Just like with Maligne Canyon, during winter months, the waterfalls and Johnston creek freeze, and you can walk in the frozen canyon through guided tours. 

After a refreshing hike, we headed back to Banff downtown for dinner.

Day 7: Cave and Basin, Banff downtown, horseback riding 

Day 7 was the last day of our Canadian Rockies road trip, and we wanted to do a morning activity and then relax and explore the Banff downtown area. 

Horseback riding along Bow River

For our morning activity, we chose horseback riding and headed to the stables in Banff. We had booked a 1-hour scenic horse ride along the Bow River.

➡ Check rates and availability for 1-hour horseback riding along Bow river in Banff (beginner-friendly)

The stables were huge, and they had lots of horses. While we were waiting, a group of 12-14 riders was ready to leave, and we passed another group that was returning just when we started. 

We were assigned our horses and given a few minutes to warm up to our horses. This was our second time trying horse riding, but I was still a bit nervous.

The riders in charge there were really nice and knew their horses quite well. My kids were quite comfortable with the horses. The horses walk nose to tail in a line, and there is no galloping. One staff rider rode in the front and another at the end of the line.

The trail was nice and scenic. The latter half was along the Bow River, and we could see the mountains in the backdrop.

There was tall grass growing on the side of the trail, and the horses would take every occasion to stop to eat the grass and stop the entire line! Overall it was a fun experience. 

Cave and Basin National Historic Site

On the way back to Banff downtown, we passed the Cave and Basin National Historic Site and made an unplanned stop to explore. We had seen the Cave and Basin banners on the lampposts in Banff downtown.

Our Canada Discovery pass gave us free access to the site. We still needed to get our pass checked and get a hand stamp from the gift shop. Tickets can be purchased at the gift shop as well. 

The Cave and Basin have been a special place for the Banff people for over a thousand years, and today the site is a museum with tours, interactive exhibits, and short film presentations.

The Cave and Basin are natural hot springs heated geothermally. As the Cave and Basin are protected, you are not allowed to touch the water here.

The Cave and Basin are home to an endangered Banff Snail, which lives in the water. The tour guide showed us the snails in the water. The sulfur smell is very strong in the Cave.

This place was also home to a bathhouse which is now closed. There is no bathing in the hot springs allowed at this site. You will have to go to Banff Hot Springs for that.  

The whole museum can be seen in an hour. There are several trails from the Cave and Basin if you would like to explore more. 

Explore Banff town

The downtown scene at Banff has a really cool vibe, with stunning snow-covered mountains as the backdrop.

After lunch at Banff downtown, we spent a lazy afternoon strolling in the downtown area and browsing local shops and boutiques. We tried Rocky Mountain chocolates and Rocky Mountain Soap Co. We also did some souvenir shopping. 

Where to eat in Banff

Below are some excellent restaurants we tried in Banff during our three days in Banff:

Magpie and Stump – Mexican cuisine. This place had great decor, and the upstairs patio was beautiful. 

Saffron Indian bistro – Indian cuisine. Really good Indian food, which satisfied our home food cravings.

Balkan – Greek cuisine. They had entertainment on Thursday, so we went to check it out. They had good vegetarian options. 

Uno pizza – Really good pizza and appetizers! 

Beavertails – My kids loved the Canadian pastries, and you can customize your toppings. 

White Bark Café – I read somewhere about this café, and it did not disappoint!

➡ Check rates and availability for this Banff Food tour at Fairmont Banff Springs – perfect for foodies and history buffs!

Return to Calgary

In the evening, we drove back to our Calgary airport hotel, bringing an end to our epic Canadian Rockies road trip. We had an early morning flight the next day back to San Francisco. 

Banff Jasper itinerary for 5 days

If you have 5 days to see Canadian Rockies, you can modify the above 7 day Banff to Jasper itinerary to make it 5 day itinerary as suggested below:

• Arrive at Calgary airport the night before or early morning
• Day 1 – Icefields Parkway Drive to Jasper, Columbia Icefields Glacier tour. Stay overnight at Jasper.
• Day 2- Explore Jasper National Park, arrive at Lake Louise. Stay overnight at Lake Louise.
• Day 3-Explore Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Stay overnight at Banff.
• Day 4, 5-Explore Banff National Park

Where to Stay for the Canadian Rockies Road Trip

This needs a little planning as the drive from Banff to Jasper is roughly 4 hours, with Icefields Parkway’s scenic route in between.

As there are several stops on the Icefields Parkway to check out, it pretty much takes the whole day for the drive, and a couple of nights in Jasper are a must to visit all the beautiful attractions near Jasper. 

We broke down our road trip stay in the order below:

• 1 night in Calgary
• 2 nights in Jasper
• 1 night in Lake Louise
• 3 nights in Banff

But it all depends on hotel availability. You can also start with Banff first and keep Jasper in the end. 

Money-saving tip: If your flight is arriving late in the evening in Calgary and/or leaving early in the morning on the return trip, consider staying the shoulder nights in an airport hotel in Calgary.

Our flight landed at 11 PM, and it was so convenient to drive 5 minutes to our Calgary Hyatt Place hotel.

Similarly, on return, we had a morning flight, and we arrived the night before. We saved quite a bit as hotels near Calgary airport are cheaper than Banff. Also, we started our trip on the scenic route refreshed in the morning.

Where to stay in Banff

There are several accommodation options in Banff, ranging from luxurious to affordable hotels.

The Banff downtown area has plenty of hotels and is the most convenient place to stay as you can walk to all restaurants and shops. Also, many attractions offer shuttle service from the Banff town area.

Luxury resorts : Fairmont Banff Springs and Rimrock Resort . These resorts are a bit outside of the main Banff town area, so you will have to drive to Banff downtown for restaurants. There are plenty of restaurants within these resorts as well if you decide to stay in, but do make a trip to explore Banff town.

Mid-range hotels : Moose Hotel and Suites is a great option to stay in Banff, and this is where we stayed. It is in an excellent location and very accessible. Peaks Hotel and Suites is another great hotel in a prime location. You can walk to all the restaurants and stores from both of these hotels.

Economy hotels : Best Western Plus is a good budget-friendly option and yet close to all the action on Banff Avenue. But for more savings, look at accommodations in Canmore as well.

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay in Banff

Where to stay in Canmore

Staying in the town of Canmore instead of Banff is a budget-friendly alternative if you do not mind the extra 30-minute drive to Banff attractions.

Canmore Inn and Suites is a great mid-range hotel in Canmore with a pool and waterslide. This property has larger suites for families and an Indian restaurant onsite.

Canmore accommodations can be cheaper than Banff. If you like to be in the middle of the hustle and bustle, choose to stay in Banff town. 

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay in Canmore

Where to stay in Lake Louise

Spending a night in the Lake Louise area is a good idea, especially if you want to stay to see sunrise or sunset at Lake Louise or Lake Moraine or if you want more time to do some hikes or just admire the views.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is the ultimate resort if you want to splurge for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Another affordable option is staying at the Lake Louise Inn where we stayed, and it was really a great stay. The lobby was impressive, with several restaurants for dinner and a breakfast restaurant with a great breakfast buffet spread.

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay in Lake Louise

Where to stay in Jasper National Park

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a luxury resort in Jasper and is lake-front with beautiful scenery and epic views.

Tekarra Lodge is a great accommodation option 5 minutes away from Jasper downtown and has individual cabins with kitchens. We had a 2 bedroom cabin, and it was pretty comfortable. You feel amidst the wilderness here while still being close to the downtown shops and restaurants.

The Crimson is a good option if you are looking for accommodation in the Jasper downtown area. You can walk to the many shops and restaurants here.

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay in Jasper

Where to stay in Calgary

In Calgary, as we were only staying the night before and after our flights, we stayed at the Hyatt Place near Calgary airport . It is just 5 minute’s drive from the airport and has free breakfast which was great.

➡ Check rates and availability for your stay in Calgary

Travel tips and FAQs for visiting Banff, Jasper, and Canadian Rockies

Below are travel tips that will help you make the most of your trip to the Canadian Rockies and Banff and Jasper:

When is the best time to visit Banff and the Canadian Rockies?

Banff and the Canadian Rockies area are beautiful year-round, but its busy tourist sightseeing season is mainly June to September , as summer in Banff is the only time the lakes are not frozen, and most roads and tours/activities are open.

June and September are the shoulder seasons, with the busiest seasons being July and August.

We decided to go in early June to avoid the crowds and make it more affordable. Keep in mind it does rain quite a lot in June, but we took a chance. It rained one and half days out of our seven-day trip so it was not bad at all.

How many days are needed for Banff and Canadian Rockies road trip?

As you would need a few days in both Banff and Jasper and a day to drive the Icefields Parkway, between 5 to 7 days is ideal if you want to cover Banff, Lake Louise, Icefield Parkway, and Jasper.

If you plan to do longer hikes or visit the nearby National parks, then you will need a few extra days.

This Canadian Rockies itinerary covering Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, and Icefields Parkway Drive is for 7 days.

But it can be easily modified for 5 days in Banff and Jasper road trip. Just reduce one night in Banff and make a day trip to Lake Louise.

How to get to Banff and the Canadian Rockies?

Flying in and out of Calgary Airport will be the fastest way to get to the Canadian Rockies. From there, you can drive to Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper or use a transfer service.

• Banff is around a 1.5-hour drive from Calgary over the scenic Trans-Canada Hwy AB-1.
• Lake Louise is around a 40-minute drive from Banff.
• Jasper is around a 3-hour drive from Lake Louise.
• The total drive from Calgary to Jasper will be around 5 hours without any stops.

You will need a rental car for your Canadian Rockies Road trip. It’s best to rent a car at the Calgary International Airport.

➡ Check rates and availability with Discover Cars as they check top car rental brands and provide the best rental car rates!

Use a shuttle or private transfer service

It is becoming increasingly popular to ditch the rental car and use a transfer service to Banff and then do sightseeing via tours to avoid the hassle of parking, especially during the busy tourist months of July and August.

➡ This shared Alberta Transfer service is an affordable way to transfer between Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Calgary, and Kananaskis.

➡ This Calgary YYC Airport to Banff private shuttle will be exclusive to your group and will pick up from Calgary Airport and drop you off at your Banff hotel.

How to get around Banff and the Canadian Rockies?

You can use a rental car to get around Banff and the Canadian Rockies.

For attractions within Banff, you can also use the ROAM transit service that stops at major Banff attractions.

Another alternative is to use the Hop-On and Hop-Off Banff Bus to travel between Banff, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake. As you can no longer drive your personal vehicle to Moraine Lake (starting 2023), this is a great option.

Day pass or annual pass for Banff and Jasper National Parks?

The entire Banff and Jasper area, including the towns, fall under the National Parks, and you need a permit to enter. You can purchase a day pass or an annual pass at the entry checkpoint into Banff. 

You can also purchase it from the Parks Canada website, but they add shipping costs as they ship the actual physical pass to you. It’s easier to just buy it at the gate when you enter Banff National Park.

The Discovery annual pass is good for a year for up to seven people in a vehicle. We bought the Discovery annual pass as we were going to be there for 7 days, and it turned out to be cheaper than the daily passes. 

Just remember to bring it back with you and not forget it in your rental car like we did! You can reuse it if you plan to visit any other national parks in Canada in the one-year timeframe.

Final Takeaways: Canadian Rockies itinerary 5 to 7 days

Hope my Banff and Jasper itinerary helps you plan the most memorable road trip to the Canadian Rockies.

Soak in the majestic views and collect memories of a lifetime in Banff National Park, Lake Louise, Icefields Parkway, and Jasper National Park.

Summary of Banff and Jasper itinerary 7 days:

• Day 2: Explore Jasper National Park – Maligne Canyon hike, Maligne Lake, Jasper Skytram
• Day 4: Explore Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
• Day 5: Explore Banff: Banff Gondola and Banff Hot Springs
• Day 6: Explore Banff: Lake Minnewanka and Johnston Canyon hike
• Day 7: Explore Banff: Cave and Basin, Banff downtown, horseback riding

Related Posts

Going to Banff and the Canadian Rockies? Check out my other posts from the Canadian Rockies series:

25 BEST things to do in Banff in summer

13 BEST Icefields Parkway stops: 1 day itinerary

BEST of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in one Day

Johnston Canyon Hike to the Lower and Upper falls in Banff

Is Calgary Worth Visiting? Things To Do & Reasons To Visit

Anu Agarwal is the founder and author of vacation travel blog Destination Checkoff. Anu, a Northern California resident, and a regular nine-to-fiver, loves to vacation with her family to destinations all over the world. She is obsessed with doing endless research for her trips. She has traveled to several destinations in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and Asia. With her blog, Anu is excited to share her destination itineraries and vacation travel guides and help you check those dream destinations off your bucket list!

3rd time's the charm: Finally taking a Canadian dream trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper

Like many travelers, we had epic plans for the summer of 2020. We had mapped out a highly anticipated multigenerational family trip to Canada with my parents and kids for June 2020. It was a big trip that would let us tick off several bucket-list destinations while simultaneously giving us the chance to escape Texas' summer heat.

But then, we all know what happened: The coronavirus pandemic swept the globe. Suffice it to say, the trip couldn't happen.

So, we rebooked the trip for June 2021 hoping, like many, that the Canadian border would reopen by then. Much to our disappointment, though, it remained closed to U.S. tourists, prompting us to cancel the trip once again.

Fast forward to June 2022, and luck was on our side. The third time was indeed the charm, as restrictions lifted and we were finally able to use our flight vouchers that had collected dust for two years to head across the border.

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Our merry band of travelers (which now included a range of ages, from my 6-year-old daughter to my 73-year-old father) took off for points north, bound for Alberta and all it had in store. We may have all aged by two years by the time the trip became a reality, but it was just as grand as we had hoped — and well worth the years of planning, waiting and replanning.

Here's how we booked our trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper, Alberta, including what we did, where we stayed and what we ate.

How to plan an epic Alberta adventure

Since we had a week to work with, we wanted to enjoy Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper on the same trip.

Adding Jasper definitely makes the trip longer and more involved, so if you're pressed for time or just want to move at a slower pace, know that there's plenty to see and do in Banff and Lake Louise.

With prices at their peak from July through August (the region's busy season), we decided to plan our trip for June to save money. From our experience, visiting a month before the peak travel season didn't lead to any major sacrifices on our part, so the cost-cutting move proved worthwhile.

We knew we'd need a rental car (and, specifically, a harder-to-book minivan to accommodate our large group), so we immediately started looking for a reservation. Luckily, we began planning our trip far enough out to snag a rental car without any trouble. Had we waited until we arrived at Calgary International Airport (YYC) in June, we would've discovered they were sold out.

With our dates and the rental car settled, we began to plan our trip. We started our adventure in Banff before moving on to Lake Louise and briefly checking out Jasper. We rounded out our Alberta visit with a one-night stay at Kananaskis Mountain Lodge in Kananaskis Country, a region located about an hour west of the Calgary airport.

Assuming you visit in the summer, Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper are where you head to look at pretty lakes, streams and waterfalls and enjoy a number of outdoor pursuits, including hiking, canoeing and horseback riding.

There are plenty of options for all of these activities, but here are the ones we recommend:

Explore Cave and Basin National Historic Site

This destination in the heart of Banff was not only instrumental in the creation of Canada's first national park but is also a place that's held special meaning for thousands of years for people tied to Canada's First Nations community. Cave and Basin National Historic Site's rich history makes it a must-visit destination in Banff.

The actual cave is very short and small, with the pungent smell of sulfur. It is still cool though — both literally and figuratively.

While you'll likely only be inside for no more than five minutes, you can also look around outside, view the historic site's movie and peruse the site's exhibits to extend your visit to about 30 minutes.

Children 17 and younger can visit for free, but adults are required to pay 8.50 Canadian dollars (or about $6.50) each to enter. Travelers ages 65 and older are eligible for the reduced senior rate of CA$7 (less than $5.50).

Ride the Banff Gondola

Experiencing the Banff Gondola was a lot of fun, but we had sticker shock when we strolled up to the ticket office and found out that adult gondola tickets cost a whopping CA$70 (about $54) each during the warmer months.

Fortunately, the kids were free, as admission is waived for each child 15 and younger who is with an adult and rides before 10 a.m.

To save yourself from being stunned upon arrival, try to reserve your tickets online in advance, as you may have luck snagging a lower rate.

Despite the high price, the views were exceptional and worth the hit to our budget. We loved taking in the stunning scenery while strolling along the extensive boardwalk at the top.

In total, we spent about 90 minutes here, which felt like the right amount of time for most families.

Take a dip in the Banff Upper Hot Springs

Our stop at the Banff Upper Hot Springs was also a little different than what I imagined. These historic natural hot springs looked like a pretty basic swimming pool.

Still, at only CA$29 (roughly $22) — which is what a family pass for two adults and two children costs — we found the springs to be a fun spot to enjoy a dip.

Try to arrive first thing in the morning to beat the crowds, as your experience will be much more enjoyable if you're not rubbing elbows with hordes of visitors.

To dial up the nostalgia and avoid hauling around a wet bathing suit all day, I opted to rent the "old-timey classic" swimsuit. A clean and well-appointed locker room was available on site, so we could comfortably change and safely store our belongings while in the springs.

Go for a hike in Johnston Canyon

A popular Banff destination for hiking is Johnston Canyon, a stunning natural wonder in Banff National Park.

Our hike through this impressive canyon, which was carved into the limestone bedrock by water over thousands of years, was easy enough for everyone in our crew to complete. We did the 1.1-kilometer (a little more than a half-mile) hike to the lower falls, which took no more than an hour to complete.

More challenging trails are available as well, should you find yourself wanting to break a sweat.

Sign up for an Open Top tour

While we didn't actually go on an Open Top tour, we found ourselves wishing we had, as the classically styled vehicles we kept spotting at our hotel caught our eyes.

Priced at CA$42 (about $32) for adults and CA$24 (approximately $18.50) for kids, these tours help you see some of the area's top sights in just 90 minutes without having to do any driving or planning. Based on recent reviews, you'll also get some great stories along the way.

Hit the trails on horseback

Another activity we didn't have time to do in Banff was horseback riding. If we had stayed more than one night at the Fairmont Banff Springs, we would have found a way to fit in this activity, as there are trails conveniently located next to the hotel.

You can choose a one- or four-hour ride, which cost CA$89 (a little more than $68) and CA$249 (nearly $191), respectively. The minimum age is 8 years old for the shorter ride, while every member of your party will need to be at least 10 years old for the four-hour ride. If you're traveling with a younger kid, note that there are trail rides with lower age minimums in Jasper.

To save money, book in advance online to get the 10% discount. There's also a package discount available, should you find yourself also visiting places like local hot springs and the gondola.

Get an eyeful of Peyto Lake

Several lakes in varying shades of hard-to-believe colors are worth visiting while in Alberta, but Banff's Peyto Lake is one of the most breathtaking.

To get to this beautiful lake, which is free to visit, you need to embark on an easy 10-minute hike. We thoroughly enjoyed the brief hike thanks to the snow that was still on the ground during our mid-June visit. We found ourselves having an impromptu snowball fight before arriving at the lake.

Once Peyto Lake came into view, we were floored by the color. It was, without question, the richest hue of blue I've ever seen.

Rumor has it that, on sunny days, the lake takes on a brighter, turquoise appearance, so know that the color may vary slightly depending on when you visit. It gets its color from suspended rock flour in the water.

Related: Planning the perfect Banff summer vacation

Lake Louise

Marvel at moraine lake.

One of the absolute highlights of our trip was unquestionably our time in the Lake Louise area at Moraine Lake.

While Peyto Lake wowed us, the mesmerizing blue-green color of Moraine Lake's glacier-fed water was equally as impressive. Photos simply don't do this lake justice.

The lake is free to visit, though you'll need a bit of luck (or lots of strategizing) to avoid paying for transportation.

If you arrive early (or late) or just happen to time your visit perfectly, you can park right at Moraine Lake. We pulled up late in the morning just as the "parking is full" sign was being put out, so we had to head to the parking lot near Lake Louise Ski Resort's gondola and pay to take a bus back to the lake.

For what it's worth, Lake Louise's Fairmont also had a shuttle to Moraine Lake, but it was very expensive compared to the bus option, which only cost CA$8 (about $6) for adults and less for kids and seniors. We read that you needed advance reservations to use the bus, but we had no problem getting walk-up tickets during our visit.

No matter how you get to the lake, don't miss it. We walked around and admired it for about an hour. Be sure to wear hiking boots, as the trail can be slick.

Hop on the gondola

Lake Louise's gondola is said to be the best way to spot wildlife in the area from a safe distance.

However, the weather was rainy, overcast and generally not good the day we tried to ride, so we ultimately passed on this attraction.

If you don't want to do multiple gondola rides during your Alberta vacation, consider prioritizing this one, as it's much more affordable than the Banff gondola. Tickets cost CA$54.99 (approximately $42) for adults, with CA$10 (less than $8) discount cards easy to find everywhere there's a stand with tourist brochures.

Paddle around Lake Louise

While the weather was also not cooperative for this activity, we powered through the less-than-ideal conditions. That decision ended up being the right call, as our canoeing adventure was one of the highlights of our trip.

Renting canoes from the Fairmont's dock is an expensive activity at CA$95 (about $73) for an hour or CA$85 (a little more than $65) for 30 minutes. Prices are even higher for non-hotel guests.

Still, nothing beats watching those iconic red canoes out on the blue water except being in one with a paddle in your arms. The wind put our canoe skills to the test, so we didn't make it more than 20 minutes before heading back to shore, but had the water been calmer, we would have loved exploring for a full hour.

Saddle up at the Jasper Riding Stables

Next to canoeing and seeing some of the gorgeous lakes, my favorite activity was riding through the forest on the back of a horse.

While we didn't have time to go horseback riding in Banff, we made sure to go riding in Jasper at the Jasper Riding Stables. Because it was less expensive — CA$79 (about $60.50) for a one-hour ride — and had a lower minimum age of 6 years, this stable was the perfect place for our crew to spend some time with horses.

Unlike other parts of our trip when I found myself worrying about bear encounters (despite carrying bear spray with us at all times), I found myself able to truly relax while on horseback. The guides seemed more than comfortable handling the possibility of coming across bears, which helped put my mind at ease.

With one less thing for me to worry about, I was able to focus on the lovely scenery. On this particular day, our ride included no one but our party of four and our two guides, which was an absolute dream scenario.

Take a scenic drive full of impromptu stops

Like Banff and Lake Louise, Jasper had lots of lakes featuring an array of blue and green colors, but I'll give a special shoutout to a particularly green body of water we stopped at on the way to the Jasper East Cabins. I don't know its name, but we discovered it while driving around the area.

Besides pulling over for the lake, we made frequent stops to watch wildlife. We saw bears, moose and more on the side of the road as we drove through Jasper.

Roadways here offer enough space to safely slow down and pull over to enjoy the view, so we took full advantage of this free show. You'd be remiss if you didn't do the same when you visit.

Explore Maligne Canyon and the bridges in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a must-see destination on its own, but its bridges and Maligne Canyon, the park's deepest canyon, can't be missed.

From the bridges, you'll enjoy phenomenal views of the park. You're almost guaranteed to spot wildlife, too, while exploring the area around the canyon.

Check out the Columbia Icefield

For around CA$90 ($69) for adults and CA$60 ($46) for children, you can explore the Columbia Icefield.

With the tour fee, you get the chance to walk out onto the Athabasca Glacier and enjoy a skywalk experience. Know, though, that this isn't the only way to see the glacier.

If you're looking to save money (like we were) or the tour option sells out (as is often the case), you can instead park farther away and walk toward the glacier to see it up close. Don't attempt to walk onto the glacier on your own, though, as access to the actual icefield is only for those who pay for a tour.

Where to stay

Fairmont banff springs.

For most first-time visitors to the area, the Fairmont Banff Springs is probably at least in the conversation when debating where to stay in Banff. The 100-year-old, UNESCO World Heritage-listed "Castle in the Canadian Rockies," as it's lovingly called by many, is a bucket-list destination in and of itself.

We only stayed at the 745-room property one night due to the high room rates, but we enjoyed our visit overall and wholeheartedly recommend hanging your hat here — or, at the very least, visiting for a drink, a meal or maybe a spa treatment.

That said, if you only have the time and budget to pick one iconic Fairmont while in Alberta, this shouldn't be the one.

The views were phenomenal, and the convenience of being by the lake and having an array of amenities available at your fingertips was great. However, these highlights weren't enough to justify the close-to-$1,000 a night price tag for a room.

The room itself looked more like a $125-per-night budget-brand option desperately in need of renovation than what you expect to find at a high-end hotel.

Still, I'm glad we tried it for a night.

The Dorothy Motel

For less than a third of the price of the Fairmont, you could instead stay at a fresh take on the traditional motel concept.

My parents decided to stay at The Dorothy Motel (also in Banff) using their Capital One miles from their Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (which is currently offering a 75,000-point welcome bonus after you spend $4,000 in the first three months of opening your account). This meant that rather than pay more than $200 for a one-night stay, they had zero out-of-pocket costs for their room.

It was far from a full-service resort, but if you want to try something a little different and conserve your cash a bit, it was a more-than-suitable option.

Canmore accommodations

If nothing in Banff proper is meeting your needs, you can stay in nearby Canmore, Alberta, and drive the 20 minutes into Banff. In Canmore, you'll find more abundant vacation home rentals, cheaper hotel rates and some traditional hotel points properties from brands such as IHG and Choice Hotels .

To balance out our Fairmont extravaganza, we spent a night at the Quality Resort Chateau Canmore using Choice Privileges points we purchased during a Daily Getaways sale . While our points got us some larger room types that sounded cool on paper, one night was the right length of time to spend at the property.

Go in with modest expectations, and you'll probably be OK for a short stay.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

You don't need to splurge on your lodging in Banff if you don't want to, but if there is one hotel worth paying up for, it's the Fairmont in Lake Louise.

Granted, we got a suite to share with my parents, so that helped keep us away from the very small entry-level rooms (some of which don't have air conditioning), but we all quickly agreed that the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise was worth the big price tag.

Staying right on the blue-green lake was not only a dream come true, it was a reality that lived up to (and exceeded) our expectations.

The views from our suite were awe-inspiring, and the decor was much more elevated than what we found at the Banff location.

If you are on the fence about which of the two Fairmonts to pick, know that you'll have access to fewer amenities at the Lake Louise property if you're not staying the night, so you shouldn't show up and expect to enjoy the same perks as paying guests.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

There is also a Fairmont in Jasper, if you want to hit the trifecta of the three luxury resorts.

But remember, this location is often sold-out for long periods of time due to passengers from the Canadian Rocky Mountaineer train staying here while in the area, so you'll want to look into making reservations as far in advance as possible. We weren't able to snag a coveted room during our visit, so we only had a chance to walk around the grounds.

It was a cute property that I would have loved to try for a night, though it didn't seem like a property that would overtake the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise for the top Fairmont in Alberta, so I quickly got over my disappointment.

Jasper East Cabins

Because we weren't able to stay at the Fairmont, we instead chose to book a more affordable cabin. There are a few options more centrally located, but we reserved a cabin at Jasper East Cabins , a spot a little east of town. It was by no means the Fairmont, but it had a classic look we enjoyed. Not to mention, availability wasn't an issue.

A three-bedroom cabin set us back about $500 per night, with smaller cabins costing less. You're a bit removed from civilization here, but you will find a brewery within walking distance, should you crave something to do outside your cabin. There's also a well-stocked general store on site that had a great selection of basics and even some organic, higher-end options.

Related: TPG's guide to the Canadian provinces

What to eat

A fancy meal at the fairmont.

Even if you don't stay at a Fairmont while in town, you'll want to try a fancy meal at one (or more) of the Fairmont properties — if you can swing it.

At the Fairmont Banff Springs, we dined at 1888 Chop House one night for dinner and loved everything we tried.

It wasn't cheap, but the classic steakhouse offered excellent service and divine dishes. And don't discount it if you're not a huge meat eater, as even the vegetable plates and sides were outstanding. It's probably no surprise the Wagyu and the scallops were fantastics, but the sides (a flavorful beet salad, sautéed mushrooms and Brussels sprouts), seriously stood apart.

Appetizers here start at CA$20 to CA$30 (about $15 to $23), while entrees generally cost anywhere between CA$50 and CA$80 (or roughly $38 to $61).

If 1888 Chop House isn't in your budget, don't fret: You can enjoy an equally memorable bite while grabbing a drink at the Rundle Bar. Most happy hour drinks (think: wine, beer and select cocktails) cost around CA$10 (less than $8) while offered from 3 to 5 p.m. There is a short menu of appetizers and small bites, too.

At the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, we failed a little bit in the dinner reservation-making department, so we weren't able to eat at any of the higher-end sit-down spots, but we were able to order drinks and snacks in the Lakeview Lounge, which showcased jaw-dropping views of the lake from its windows. Since there was still snow on the ground, I warmed up with a mulled wine made of red wine, brandy with hints of honey, cinnamon and cloves.

If I had to do it all again, I'd be better about planning and make dinner reservations for the adjacent restaurant. There is also a spot for fondue and a lively restaurant called Alpine Social, should you find yourself feeling more adventurous.

A pastry and a slice of pizza

In our experience, Alberta excelled at bakery items and pizzas.

The Bear's Paw Bakery in Jasper was a sublime spot for morning pastries and all things baked and delicious. (If you're going to Bear Paw Bakery, don't be creative, get the bear paw. Trust me.)

We also really enjoyed Rocky Mountain Flatbread Co. in nearby Canmore, which had both indoor and outdoor seating and a variety of great pizzas for about CA$20 (approximately $15) each. I loved my fig, bison and brie pizza that also had caramelized onions, mushrooms and arugula scattered on top.

Casual pub grub paired with a cold brew

Next to our cabins in Jasper was the Folding Mountain Brewing Taproom and Kitchen, which had a not-to-be-missed kitchen to go along with its taproom.

We were pleasantly surprised by our meal here, as there's not a lot available in this part of Alberta, so the venue could easily get away with being mediocre due to the lack of options. But the food was solid, and it was great to have a selection of beers on tap to enjoy with dinner.

At this point, I'd had enough "on-the-go" food and ordered the Hikers Veggie Bowl which contained couscous, spiraled beets, arugula and yams. It might not sound great, but after days of basics, it tasted like (vegetable) heaven. Plus, you can add meat for a few extra dollars, if that's your thing.

A picnic lunch

No visit to Alberta would be complete without enjoying a meal outdoors.

There's no need to eat every meal in a restaurant when you're surrounded by stunning natural wonders, so we found ourselves preparing at least one picnic a day (often lunch) to set up on a random rock, picnic table or chair.

If you stay at the Fairmont Banff Springs and are feeling extra bougie about your picnic lunch, you can order one with your breakfast via room service to save for later. We did this during our stay and found the meal to be incredibly convenient and tasty. The cost was on the higher end at CA$40 (nearly $31), but there was enough food for two to enjoy — including a ham-and-cheese sandwich on a baguette and a gooey chocolate chip cookie — making the price easier to stomach.

Bottom line

When I look back through our collection of lake, stream, mountain, wildlife and waterfall images stashed away in our trip photo album, I admittedly find everything blending together in my mind.

But that's the beauty of travel, isn't it? You often don't have just one thing you are planning a whole trip around. Instead, you typically have an abundance of can't-miss activities and sights to experience throughout your vacation to create countless memories you'll cherish forever.

Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper more than delivered in terms of things to see and do. Although some of what we did involved preplanned routes and stops, many of our favorite memories from the trip happened organically while exploring this beautiful part of Canada.

This may have been my first trip to Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper, but it most certainly won't be my last.

From Lake Louise to Jasper: 4 Best Ways to Get There

Written by Michael Law and Lana Law Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The drive from Lake Louise to Jasper is 253 kilometers along one of the most scenic highways in Canada , the Icefields Parkway . The route is almost impossible to do straight through; you'll most certainly be distracted and have to pull over multiple times to stare at the turquoise lakes, roaring waterfalls, or the impressive Athabasca Glacier. Count on a full day to drive from Lake Louise to Jasper.

Transport options include driving yourself, taking a tour, hopping on a non-stop shuttle, or hiring a private transfer service complete with a guide. The route itself is well-marked and easy to follow. The highway is single-lane in both directions the entire way, with limited passing opportunities. If you get stuck behind a slow-moving RV, be prepared to stay there for a while.

A trip along the Icefields Parkway is true mountain driving. Even in the height of summer, be prepared for all conditions, even snow. In the winter, this route is very lightly traveled and receives significant amounts of snow.

If you plan to drive this in the off-season, ensure you have the right vehicle and all the survival equipment. No matter what time of year you go, be sure your tank is full. Fill up in Lake Louise; fuel is available at only one place along the entire route, and it is expensive. Note that the Columbia Icefield Visitor Center is closed in the winter, and no services are available.

If you're interested in hiking or random sightseeing, our recommendation is to drive this route yourself. If you'd rather enjoy the ride, learn a bit about the area, stop at only the highlights, and let someone else do the driving, tours are a great option.

Below are the best ways to get from Lake Louise to Jasper.

On This Page:

• From Lake Louise to Jasper by Car
• From Lake Louise to Jasper by Shuttle
• From Lake Louise to Jasper by Tour
• From Lake Louise to Jasper by Private Transfer

Returning from Jasper to Lake Louise

Lunch stops along the icefields parkway, 1. from lake louise to jasper by car.

This option provides the most freedom of all. If you see an amazing lake, just pull over. Bear on the side of the highway? Stop and grab a picture. Brought the hiking boots and want to take a stroll to an amazing lookout? Park and start walking. It's all this freedom that makes the relatively short distance stretch out into a full day of driving.

If you are looking to rent a car , it's best to do this in Banff prior to getting to Lake Louise; options for car rental here are quite limited.

Once you are in your car, just head west from Lake Louise until you see the turnoff for Highway 93, also known as the Icefields Parkway. Once you make that turn and pass through the park gates (fee required), just stay on this road, and you'll end up in downtown Jasper. Nothing could be easier.

If you'd like an audio accompaniment with details about what you see, buy the low-cost Icefields Parkway: a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour . It's like having a guide sitting in the seat next to you!

As you ascend from the park gates, the first place you'll likely want to pull over is at Bow Lake . This large aquamarine lake is set majestically beneath the Crowfoot Glacier .

Should you feel the need for a swim in the ice-cold water, and surprisingly a number of people do, a beach is just below the pull-off. High up and off in the distance, past the red-roofed Num-Ti-Jah Lodge, is Bow Glacier Falls , reached via a very scenic 9.2-kilometer return hiking trail. This is one of the top hikes in Banff National Park .

After Bow Lake, ascend farther and be on the watch for the turnoff for Peyto Lake . Reached via a short trail, this lake, turquoise in color, is one of the most spectacular sights on the entire highway. As you continue towards Jasper, you'll pass a number of wonderful campgrounds and lookouts, eventually ending up at the Athabasca Glacier . Stop here, and stretch your legs with a walk to the toe of the glacier, or take a guided tour on top of the ice.

After the glacier, the road follows the river towards Jasper. Sights along the way are mostly waterfalls and include Tangle Creek Falls, Athabasca Falls , and the incredible Sunwapta Falls . Eventually, you'll end up in the center of Jasper, where you'll find all the services you need.

The first two-thirds of the drive are by far the most spectacular. The portion from the Athabasca Glacier down to Jasper descends gradually down a wide valley and is less scenic.

2. From Lake Louise to Jasper by Shuttle

If you just want to transit between Lake Louise and Jasper and don't need to stop along the way for sightseeing, a shuttle is a good option. Less costly than a tour, the shuttle will get you here in three hours.

The shuttle is operated by SunDog Tours . Passengers are transported in a mid-size coach with large windows. Your fare includes one piece of luggage, one carry-on, and one personal item. Extra fees are charged for additional luggage and oversized items like skis or bikes.

3. From Lake Louise to Jasper by Tour

If you want to maximize your time and leave the driving to someone else, take the 10-hour Lake Louise to Jasper One-Way Tour . This tour stops at all the highlights along the way, including Bow Lake, Crowfoot Glacier, Columbia Ice Fields Weeping Wall, and Athabasca Falls.

In addition to stopping at the key sights, you'll receive interesting insight from your knowledgeable and personable guide.

Lunch is included, as is a guided glacier walk and the Glacier Skywalk at the Icefields Centre . This tour is part of the longer Banff to Jasper tour, so when you step on the bus, don't be surprised that it's partially full. The tour will pick you up at your hotel in Lake Louise and drop you off at your hotel in Jasper.

4. From Lake Louise to Jasper by Private Transfer

If your budget allows, for the ultimate mountain experience consider hiring a private transfer between Lake Louise and Jasper from SunDog Tours as part of the Journeys service. You'll be picked up at your hotel in a luxury SUV and transported at your pace to the sights you want to see.

This option provides the maximum flexibility to see and do whatever you choose whenever you like. It's almost like a local giving you a ride from Banff to Jasper. Be sure to request that your driver/guide stop at the following spots: Bow Lake , Crowfoot Glacier, Peyto Lake, the Athabasca Glacier , Tangle Creek Falls, Athabasca Falls , and the incredible Sunwapta Falls .

It's important to note that tours, shuttles, and private transfers also run in the opposite direction, from Jasper to Lake Louise. Tours stop at all the same spots along the way; shuttles do not stop, except for bathroom breaks.

The Icefields Parkway is a true wilderness experience and as a result, few restaurants are located along the way. But, with a bit of route planning, you'll be able to see all the sights and enjoy a decent lunch en route.

The main place to grab a bite is the Athabasca Glacier visitor center. If you'd like to spend a bit of time soaking up incredible views over a fine meal, plan a leisurely lunch at the Altitude Restaurant . A locally sourced menu offers the best of what the Canadian Rockies have to offer.

For a quick bite in a self-serve cafeteria-style setup, visit The Chalet restaurant. This is a good option for families with small children or those on the move.

If hunger strikes before you get to the Athabasca Glacier, stop at Saskatchewan Crossing and head to Mt. Wilson Restaurant for an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. Or, for a more informal and interesting experience, pop into the Parkway Restaurant where they provide all the ingredients for a great lunch, and you cook it yourself on the grill.

The cheapest and perhaps most scenic option is to pack a picnic lunch. Stop in at the grocery store in Sampson Mall in Lake Louise and stock up on all your favorites. When hunger strikes, head for the most scenic picnic table you can find and enjoy your homemade feast!

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The Icefields Parkway

A journey through Banff National Park and Jasper National Park

Linking Lake Louise with Jasper, Alberta is one of the most beautiful journeys on the planet – the Icefields Parkway, Alberta's Highway 93.

Rated as one of the top drives in the world by Condé Nast Traveller, the Icefield Parkway is a 232 km stretch of double-lane highway winding along the Continental Divide through soaring rocky mountain peaks, icefields and vast sweeping valleys.

What to See & Do

Winter discoveries, maps & guides, explore our maps.

The Icefields Parkway is 227 km of mountain road built between Jasper and Lake Louise. View our maps of popular stops, places to stay and things to do.

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• Lake Louise Map
• Downloadable Guide Map

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Road Trip: Banff and Jasper National Parks, Canada

One of the crown jewels of western Canada, here you'll take in exhilarating vistas of forest, crag, and glacier.

Starting on the fringe of the Great Plains and climbing through the incomparable mountain scenery of Banff and Jasper National Parks, this magnificent drive—one of the crown jewels of western Canada—combines exhilarating vistas of forest, crag, and glacier.

The route begins near Calgary, heads west 84 miles (135 kilometers) to the border of Banff, then goes 36 miles (58 kilometers) to the northwest through the heart of Banff to Lake Louise. For 144 miles (232 kilometers), the route follows the Icefields Parkway, one of the world's most stunning roadways, farther north to Jasper. Along the way, look for elk, bears, and other wild creatures; stop to take guided hikes, tour historic buildings, and attend a campfire chat.

Begin in Cochrane

From Calgary, follow Highway 1A northwest to Cochrane, an old ranching town at the foot of the Rockies and now a Calgary bedroom community. Little of the cowboy era remains at Cochrane Ranche Historic Site (Junction of Highways 22 and 1A; tel. 1 403 932 4705), headquarters for Alberta's first large-scale ranch—a 109,000-acre (44,111-hectare) flop, founded in 1881. Other ranches thrived, of course, and an interpretive mural and bronze statue on-site celebrate both failures and triumphs.

Enter Banff National Park

To the west, Highway 1A weaves through prairie foothills and climbs along the Bow River to Trans-Canada 1 and on into the forest and grand interior mountain valleys of Canada's first national park, Banff National Park (tel. 1 403 762 1550; $9.80), established in 1885. Stretching roughly 300 miles (480 kilometers) along the jagged crest of the Canadian Rockies, Banff and the adjoining Jasper National Park take in a vast tangle of great strapping peaks, mauled by glaciers and capped by the largest ice fields south of Alaska. Meltwaters thunder from the heights, pool in gemlike alpine lakes, and rush down the forested walls of broad U-shaped valleys into powerful rivers. It's a staggering, heart-swelling landscape, rich in wildlife, laced with hiking trails, and traversed by the most spectacular system of roads in the Rockies.

An 1880s railroad town and tourist destination from the start, Banff (tel. 1 403 762 8421) lies along the Bow River in a broad valley ringed with forested peaks that dwarf a crush of hotels, restaurants, and shops. The dense evergreen trees, swift blue waters of the Bow, and an abundance of bike trails, picnic spots, and footpaths mitigate the traffic and help Banff avoid the carnival air that can mar national park gateways.

Whyte Museum

For a quick summary of Banff's human history, visit the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies (111 Bear St; tel. 1 403 762 2291; $6), which bridges the 10,000-year gulf between those who hunted huge Pleistocene mountain sheep with chert spears and the Victorian gents who tackled the same peaks in waistcoats and ties. Nearby, western Canada's oldest natural history museum, the rustic 1903 Banff Park Museum (91 Banff Ave; tel. 1 403 762 1558; fee) remains true to its era with stuffed specimens of moose, bears, bison, foxes, and dozens of birds displayed in elegant glass-fronted cabinets.

Banff Museums and Natural Sites

Across the river stands the park's administration building, a noble stone facade reminiscent of an English country house and surrounded by expansive lawns, rock grottoes, and terraced gardens. While you're in the area, stop at the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum (1 Birch Ave.; tel. 1 403 762 2388; fee) to admire the handiwork of various native peoples. Next, follow Cave Avenue west through the forest to the birthplace of Canada's national park system, Cave and Basin National Historic Site (tel. 1 403 762 1566; fee), where two hot springs bubble to the surface—one inside a cave, the other nestled against the hillside—both within a restored 1914 native stone bathing complex. Duck through a low tunnel into the cave, with its wide pool of clear sulfurous water. Admire the view from the reflecting pond, and peer into the colorful waters of the basin. Exhibits explain how this compelling spot led to the establishment of Banff.

Upper Hot Springs

Since swimming is no longer allowed at Cave and Basin, follow Mountain Avenue to Upper Hot Springs (tel. 1 403 762 1515; fee), where a historic stone bathhouse and outdoor pool face the tilted gray slabs of Mount Rundle. Nearby, the Sulphur Mountain gondola (tel. 1 403 762 2523; call for schedule, fare) climbs 2,292 vertical feet (698 meters) to a summit restaurant, trails, and knockout alpine vistas.

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel

Back in Banff, follow Banff Avenue across the bridge to Spray Avenue, then drive up to the 1928 Fairmont Banff Springs hotel (405 Spray Ave.; tel. 1 403 762 2211; fee for tours, offered daily in summer excluding Sundays). Pick up a map in the lobby and wander through this colossal stone palace—rustic, elegant, and a bit medieval. In 1941 a week of room, board, and golf, plus a round-trip first-class train ticket from San Francisco, cost $145.75.

Lake Minnewanka

Northeast of Banff, follow the five-mile (eight-kilometer) loop road toward Lake Minnewanka, an immense, fjordlike lake cradled between massive peaks, and explore the remains of Bankhead, an old coal-mining town. Then head north on the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A). A slower, quieter route than Trans-Canada 1, it still delivers you to Lake Louise in about an hour, offering better views of the mountains and a far better chance of seeing elk, deer, coyotes, and bears.

Johnston Canyon

Along the way, hike up Johnston Canyon (16 miles/25 kilometers northwest of Banff), a narrow limestone chasm with two thundering waterfalls. Crowded but worth it, the spectacular 1.6-mile (2.7-kilometer) trail veers out over the rushing water on catwalks bolted to the cliffs. Admire the immensely powerful falls, amid the blast and spray and percussive, gut-thumping crash of exploding white water.

Lake Louise

To reach Lake Louise, follow Highway 1A past the Lake Louise townsite, cross the river, and climb through steep subalpine forests to the jammed parking areas below the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel (tel. 1 403 522 3511), a massive, cream-colored edifice walling off the eastern lakeshore. Rubberneck the lobby, then amble out to the dazzling shoreline. The lake itself stretches off between high, knobby peaks to the abrupt wall of glacier-clad Mount Victoria, which soars 11,365 feet (3,464 meters). Take the shoreline path to the end of the lake and back (3.1 miles/5 kilometers), or hike up to the teahouse at Plain of Six Glaciers (3.4 miles/5.5 kilometers). Follow the cutoff to Moraine Lake, a luminescent turquoise gem nestled beneath a long row of crumbling summits that form the Valley of the Ten Peaks.

Lake Louise Visitor Centre

Back in town, stop by the Lake Louise Visitor Centre (tel. 1 403 522 3833) for a geology summary of the Canadian Rockies. Out back, you'll find the start of the Bow River Loop, a 4.3-mile (7-kilometer) interpretive trail. For a grandstand vista of the glacier-capped peaks, glide up the flanks of Mount Whitehorn on the Lake Louise Sightseeing Lift & Gondola (tel. 1 403 522 3555; May to Sept.; fee).

Icefields Parkway

Most people find it hard to tear away from Lake Louise, but a great swath of sensational country awaits north along the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93). Named for the Columbia Icefield and the squadron of glaciers visible along the route, the parkway bowls along for 143 miles (227 kilometers), passing through long, forested river valleys cradled by walls of dazzling peaks. Drivers frequently spot elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, black and grizzly bears, wolf, or caribou. After about 21 miles (34 kilometers) of forest and crag, pull over beside Bow Lake for a good look at Crowfoot Glacier clinging to the scabrous cliffs of Crowfoot Mountain. From the lake's north end, you can make out Bow Glacier Falls, a ferocious cascade plummeting nearly 400 feet (120 meters). A 3-mile (4.7-kilometer) trail leads to its base.

Mistaya Canyon

At Bow Summit, follow the spur road west and stroll to where Peyto Lake Viewpoint overlooks a creamy blue lake, its glacial source, and the broad, forested valley of the Mistaya River. Continue past Waterfowl Lakes, and walk down to Mistaya Canyon, a sinuous fissure so narrow and deep you may have trouble seeing the water that crashes through it.

Saskatchewan River Crossing

At Saskatchewan River Crossing, pick up the gravelly bed of the North Saskatchewan River and begin a climb toward the treeless alpine zone. Not far beyond the Weeping Wall (the damp brow of curving limestone to your right), the road makes a sharp curve and begins a steep ascent. As you round its northern flank, consider hiking to the crest of Parker Ridge, a fairly strenuous climb to a panoramic vista of the Saskatchewan Glacier, curving down from the edge of the vast Columbia Icefield.

Enter Jasper National Park

Soon you cross Sunwapta Pass into Jasper National Park (tel. 1 780 852 6176; fee), descending to the toe of Athabasca Glacier, a broad ramp of ice and snow slanting down between Mount Athabasca (on the left) and Snow Dome. Signs along the spur road record the pace of its retreat during the past hundred years. Hike to the edge of the glacier, but don't venture onto the ice without a qualified guide—the crevasses are deep, and people have died in them.

Columbia Icefield Centre

Across the highway, learn about glacial mechanics at the Columbia Icefield Centre (tel. 877 423 7433; www.columbiaicefield.com ), a thronged activity complex where you can grab a bite, book a tour of the glacier via Ice Explorer (all-terrain vehicle), or visit the best natural history museum in either park. A large three-dimensional model of the Columbia Icefield clearly shows its extent (100 square miles/259 square kilometers) and its three meltwater drainages (Arctic, Atlantic, Pacific). Other displays examine wildlife of the alpine zone and explain how glaciers form, grow, and retreat.

Sunwapta River

• Nat Geo Expeditions

Follow the Sunwapta River northwest as it rushes down into the forest and gathers strength from countless creeks and waterfalls spilling from the Winston Churchill Range to the west. Peer over the cliffs at Sunwapta Falls, a great ripping blast of foam, then coast along the Athabasca River to Mounts Fryatt, Brussels, and Christie viewpoints. With a natural mineral lick on both sides of the road, the nearby Goats and Glaciers viewpoint is one of the park's most dependable sites for spotting mountain goats. Next, turn onto Highway 93A and take in Athabasca Falls, usually crowded, and for good reason. Here, the river's milky blue waters funnel into a chasm and break into a creamy plume of white water with Mount Kerkeslin as a backdrop. Several miles farther north, take the slow, 9-mile (14-kilometer) side trip to the base of Mount Edith Cavell, a vast wall of dark gray rock and snow that sweeps upward nearly a vertical mile from the parking area. Angel Glacier spills from the cliffs like an immense petrified waterfall, and two loop trails beckon.

Then it's on to Banff's northern counterpart, Jasper (tel. 1 780 852 3858), a turn-of-the-century railroad town and resort area that lies along the Athabasca River within sight of four mountain ranges. Small lakes—some warm enough for a dip—dot the valley floor, and trails for walking and biking loop throughout.

Jasper Tramway

For an aerial view, board the Jasper Tramway (south of town off Highway 93; tel. 1 780 852 3093. April-Oct.; fare), soar over the steep northern face of Whistlers Mountain, and walk a short distance to the summit through wildflowers. Jasper lies about 4,300 feet (1,311 meters) below, the Columbia Icefield shines to the south, and you might catch a glimpse of Mount Robson to the west. The view can leave you speechless.

Maligne Canyon

Southeast of town, Maligne Canyon (follow signs off Trans-Canada 16) cuts across the forest floor as a deep, serpentine crack where the Maligne (muh-LEEN) River slips, pools, swerves, and drops among potholes, hollows, and smooth overhanging walls of limestone. Loiter or hike along the brink, then continue beside the river past Medicine Lake to Maligne Lake, the region's longest (13.7 miles/22 kilometers) and deepest (318 feet/97 meters). Book a 90-minute cruise (Maligne Tours; tel. 1 780 852 3370; June-Sept.; reservations advised; fee) and glide down this narrow lake toward the bulky, glaciated peaks that crowd its southern shore.

Mount Robson Provincial Park

If there's time, consider a half-day side trip into Mount Robson Provincial Park (55 miles/88.5 kilometers west on Trans-Canada 16; tel. 1 255 566 4325) to see 12,972-foot (3,954-meter) Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and a stunner even after you've grown blasé about mountains.

The best time to drive this mountainous route is June to September. For local weather conditions, see www.weatheroffice.gc.ca . For general information about Banff, see www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/ab/banff/index_e.asp ; for general information about Jasper, see www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/ab/jasper/index_e.asp . Do not expect to find a vacant campsite in Banff or Jasper National Parks after 4 p.m.; reservations are advised (tel. 877 737 3783; www.pccamping.ca ). You should visit popular sites before 10 a.m. or in the early evening to avoid crowds.

—Text by Thomas Schmidt, adapted from National Geographic's Driving Guides to America: Canada (1st ed.)

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS

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30 Best Stops Between Jasper and Lake Louise

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How long is the drive from Jasper to Lake Louise?

The direct drive from Jasper to Lake Louise is 144 mi (232 km) , and should have a drive time of 3 hrs 28 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Jasper to Lake Louise, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with top places to visit like The Jasper Planetarium & dark sky telescope tours and Old Fort Point Loop, or the ever-popular Lake Annette Beach.

Best stops along Jasper to Lake Louise drive

Lake annette beach.

The Jasper Planetarium & dark sky telescope tours

Old Fort Point Loop

Sulphur skyline trail, angel glacier.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

Mount Edith Cavell

Horseshoe Lake

Athabasca falls.

HI Beauty Creek Wilderness Hostel

Tangle creek falls, ab, columbia icefield skywalk, athabasca glacier, jasper national park icefield information centre and glacier gallery, wilcox pass trail.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Mistaya Canyon Trail Head

Mckenzie's trails west, abraham lake, siffleur falls, yoho national park of canada, emerald lake, takakkaw falls.

All travel reservations in 1 place

Never dig through your emails again — access all your flights, lodging, and any reservations in 1 place.

Natural Bridge Lower Falls

Yoho national park visitor centre, burgess shale geoscience foundation, wapta falls main trail, kicking horse pass national historic site, other popular road trips from jasper, explore nearby places.

• Lake Louise
• Banff National Park
• Yoho National Park
• Castle Junction
• Spillimacheen
• Kootenay National Park
• Beavermouth
• Radium Hot Springs
• Rogers Pass
• Glacier National Park of Canada
• the Water Valley
• Fairmont Hot Springs
• Bragg Creek

All related maps of Lake Louise

• Map of Lake Louise
• Map of Eldon
• Map of Banff National Park
• Map of Field
• Map of Yoho National Park
• Map of Castle Junction
• Map of Banff
• Map of Parson
• Map of Golden
• Map of Spillimacheen
• Map of Kootenay National Park
• Map of Brisco
• Map of Canmore
• Map of Edgewater
• Map of Exshaw
• Map of Beavermouth
• Map of Radium Hot Springs
• Map of Rogers Pass
• Map of Glacier National Park of Canada
• Map of Morley
• Map of Invermere
• Map of Panorama
• Map of Windermere
• Map of the Water Valley
• Map of Sundre
• Map of Nordegg
• Map of Cremona
• Map of Cochrane
• Map of Fairmont Hot Springs
• Map of Caroline
• Map of Bragg Creek

Lake Louise throughout the year

• Lake Louise in January
• Lake Louise in February
• Lake Louise in March
• Lake Louise in April
• Lake Louise in May
• Lake Louise in June
• Lake Louise in July
• Lake Louise in August
• Lake Louise in September
• Lake Louise in October
• Lake Louise in November
• Lake Louise in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Lake Louise?

Get inspired for your trip to Lake Louise with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Lake Louise Itinerary
• 2-Day Lake Louise Itinerary
• 3-Day Lake Louise Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from jasper to lake louise.

Yes! You can drive from Jasper to Lake Louise.

How far is Lake Louise from Jasper by car?

The drive from Jasper to Lake Louise is 144 miles (232 km).

How long does it take to drive from Jasper to Lake Louise?

Driving from Jasper to Lake Louise should take you 3 hrs 28 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Jasper to Lake Louise?

Gas from Jasper to Lake Louise would cost around $13 to $29 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Jasper to Lake Louise?

You could check out The Jasper Planetarium & dark sky telescope tours and Old Fort Point Loop, or the always popular Lake Annette Beach!

What's the weather like in Jasper?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Jasper in January
• Weather in Jasper in February
• Weather in Jasper in March
• Weather in Jasper in April
• Weather in Jasper in May
• Weather in Jasper in June
• Weather in Jasper in July
• Weather in Jasper in August
• Weather in Jasper in September
• Weather in Jasper in October
• Weather in Jasper in November
• Weather in Jasper in December

What are some other road trips from Jasper?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Jasper.

• Jasper to Banff National Park drive
• Jasper to Las Vegas drive
• Jasper to Vancouver drive
• Jasper to Seattle drive
• Jasper to San Francisco drive
• Jasper to Banff drive
• Jasper to Los Angeles drive
• Jasper to Jasper National Park drive
• Jasper to Calgary drive
• Jasper to San Diego drive
• Jasper to Victoria drive
• Jasper to Portland drive
• Jasper to Yellowstone National Park drive
• Jasper to Denver drive
• Jasper to Lake Louise drive
• Jasper to Sedona drive
• Jasper to Colorado Springs drive
• Jasper to Whistler drive
• Jasper to Grand Canyon National Park drive
• Jasper to Drumheller drive
• Jasper to Monterey drive
• Jasper to Glacier National Park drive
• Jasper to Yosemite National Park drive
• Jasper to Santa Fe drive
• Jasper to Page drive
• Jasper to Kelowna drive
• Jasper to Phoenix drive
• Jasper to Edmonton drive
• Jasper to Salt Lake City drive
• Jasper to Greater Palm Springs drive

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Proving Travel is Possible with a Full-Time 9-5

An Epic Canadian Rockies Itinerary: From Calgary to Jasper and Beyond

last Updated: December 17, 2023 banff canada jasper road trip

FYI: Affiliate links may be sprinkled throughout the awesome, free content you see below. I’ll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links (at no extra cost to you), which I’ll totally blow on adult things like boba tea and avocado toast. As always, thanks for the support.

Headed to Canada and stoked to make the adventurous trek from Calgary to Jasper? Trust me – there’s a reason I keep heading back! Read on for practical travel planning tips, how to structure your itinerary, and the best spots to see along the way! This is the only Canadian Rockies road trip itinerary you’ll need to read! 

If you’re planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies, you’re in for a real treat. The whole area is full of jewel-toned glacial lakes, cascading waterfalls, majestic mountainous terrain, and jagged snow-covered peaks. Picture perfect postcard views everywhere you look.

And that includes wildlife on the side of the road, such as bighorn sheep, moose, elk, mountain goats, and the occasional bear (yes, I just said bear)!

pin for later:

This road trip through the Canadian Rockies was one of the most impressive drives of my life, and I’ve been on my fair share of road trips over the years ( Iceland , Norway , California , Hawaii , etc, I’m looking at you). I found the gorgeous Canadian province of Alberta to be just so special that I did this trip, not once, not twice, but three times (twice in summer and once in winter ). 

Read Next: The Best 3 Days in Banff Itinerary (all my favorite activities and lakes to see!)

When to take this Canadian Rockies road trip:

The scenery’s stunning year round, but frigid winter conditions mean some activities are closed. As noted above, I’ve visited in both seasons and loved both just as equally (for different reasons of course).

Summer: While the most crowded (and therefore expensive), if this is your first time to the area, I highly suggest you plan your Canadian Rockies itinerary during the pleasant summer months.

Not only will the lakes show off their distinctive gleaming turquoise colors, but you’ll be greeted with very, very long days! The sun doesn’t set until almost 10pm in the peak of summer over here, meaning lots of time for explorations!

Do note that the weather in the Canadian Rockies is quite temperamental, so you’ll want to pack along a light jacket for the cool mornings and chilly evenings.

Spring/Fall: The Canadian Rockies see over 4 million visitors a year, and I bet at least 75% visit from June-August. With that being said, a visit in late Spring or the fall may be your best bet if you’re not a fan of the masses.

Do note that many lakes don’t fully thaw until late June, so expect icy bits in the spring, with possible snowfall as early as late September/October! Bring a bunch of different clothes, check the weather forecasts before your trip, and you’ll be fine!

Winter : If you’re planning to visit the Candian Rockies in the frigid winter months, head on over to THIS POST for lots of pre-planning info. I visited Banff and the surrounding areas in February, and most definitely learned a lot!

Let’s just say I was way colder than expected, despite packing layers upon layers for the snow and below 0 temps. But frolicking in a permanent snow globe is one of my favorite things, so can’t be mad about that!

How long should this Canadian Rockies itinerary take?

I’ve driven from Calgary to Jasper and then back to Calgary in as little as 5 days, and lemme tell you, we felt ridiculously rushed. Thankfully I had already been to the area numerous times before, so I didn’t feel upset missing out on a few things.

If this is your first time to the area (and you have no clue when you’ll be back), I’d highly suggest carving out at least a week to drive from Calgary to Jasper, if not even a few days longer. The Banff itinerary I have provided here covers 9 full days, which you can shorten to 7 if need be. 

If you have way less time, don’t fret — you can still see tons with only 3 days in Banff (I’d stick to Banff and the surrounding areas, save Jasper for another time).

Do note that I don’t typically include long day (or multi-day) hikes into my travel plans. They just aren’t my thing (while I’d love to say I’m an avid hiker, my legs give out after a few miles). If you’re planning to spend a few days hiking and want to see the bulk of activities on this Canadian Rockies itinerary as well, I’d add a few extra days to this pre-planned week-long itinerary.

Calgary to Jasper Itinerary Overview

Rough Route: Calgary (1 night) → Banff (2 nights) → Lake Louise (2 nights) → Icefields Parkway → Jasper (2 nights) → Calgary/Edmonton (1-2 nights)

Do note that you can choose to drive roundtrip (essentially backtracking back to Banff and Calgary once you’re done exploring Jasper), or you can end in Edmonton which is a tad closer than driving back to Calgary. 

In addition, I’ve planned this Canadian Rockies itinerary from Calgary to Jasper (as that’s likely where most people will start from), but do know that you can actually start in Edmonton and do the entire route in reverse.

I typically find cheaper airfare going to/from Calgary, but depending on where you’re home airport is, you might as well check both (Calgary as well as Edmonton).

Reverse Route: EDMONTON → JASPER → LAKE LOUISE → BANFF → CALGARY

How to Get to the Canadian Rockies?

If you’re coming from the US, getting to the Canadian Rockies is quite simple. You can easily hop on a flight to Calgary (YYC), then make the short drive to your first stop of either Canmore or Banff in roughly an hour and a bit.

For reference, from my home airport of San Francisco (SFO), the flight takes roughly 3 hours, while flights from other parts of the country will obviously be longer due to longer distances traveled.

Check out my post on Banff in winter for lots of driving tips should you be planning your visit during the icy snowy months.

Renting a Car:

Renting a car in Calgary is pretty straight forward, as there are numerous car rental agencies both at the airport and right outside. We typically book here and find great deals → for this particular trip, we saved over $100!

For the lowest price, make sure to only input the times you actually need the car, and consider renting from a company not within the airport itself (we took a free shuttle to an outside company to get our car).

Do note that many (if not all) car rental agencies in Calgary will ask for proof of insurance upon pick up. Be prepared to show your own, or pay up at the counter for over priced insurance through the rental company. If you’ve got a travel rewards credit card (like my favorite, the Chase Sapphire Preferred or Reserve), it most likely includes car rental insurance – but of course confirm beforehand.

→ Find the cheapest car rentals over here.

Accommodation Options in the Canadian Rockies:

Ohhh, if you’re traveling during the popular summer months of June through September, you’ll NEED to book accommodation at least 2-3 months in advance. You may have some luck with last-minute bookings in May or October, but don’t count on it. And thankfully, there are lots of hotel options along the way from Calgary to Jasper, with all different budgets in mind.

When we were finally ready to finalize accommodation in Banff and Jasper, a lot had already been sold out and we didn’t have many hotels to choose from. Plan (and book) early to get the greatest flexibility when it comes to accommodation, in terms of budget and location.

Here’s where I’ve stayed on my numerous trips, and where I wish I could have stayed:

Calgary : 

Hyatt Place Calgary Airport

We wanted some place close to the airport since our flight was leaving early the next morning. It was your typical Hyatt – very clean, staff very friendly, and free breakfast buffet, at an affordable rate. Would recommend if your travel plans see a relatively early flight like ours did! We ubered into town and I don’t remember it costing much.

Find more hotel options in Calgary here.

Banff : 

Samesun Backpackers Banff 

I’ve stayed here twice so far, and have to say, it’s not terrible at all. If you’re looking for cheapie-won’t-break-the-bank accommodation options, Samesun is it. Located a few minutes from the center of town, with a fun bar environment, daily local activities, and helpful staff.

Irwin’s Mountain Inn

Honestly, nothing too special about this place, but it was one of the lower cost options in Banff Town and had free parking. Once we were ready to book hotels, most were either sold out or waaaaay outta our price range ($300+/night). Irwin’s was affordable and in a good location. Check out their sister property, The Rundlestone Lodge as well.

Fairmont Banff Springs

My dream finally came true and I stayed at the Fairmont Banff Springs during my visit to Banff in November . I mean, it’s a castle, y’all! What’s not to love?! During my first winter visit to Banff (in February) I had the pleasure of taking a dip at the Willow Stream Spa (located within the hotel), and if that’s any indication of the level of class of the hotel, you know I’m there.

Find more hotel options in Banff here.

Lake Louise: 

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Soooo, I’ve never technically stayed in Lake Louise (I always base myself out of Banff), but next time I visit, I’m making it a top priority to stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. I mean, it is technically a castle afterall.  And it’s located directly on the lake… what’s not to love?! Hold me to it!

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

If you haven’t figured it out by now, the Fairmont wins in Jasper as well, being the most popular place to stay in the National Park. It’s an upscale, rustic retreat, with not only a spa and suites, but golf courses as well. 

Tonquin Inn Jasper

Since we booked unfathomably late (and by that I mean a month ahead of time), the only accommodation I could find available was at the Tonquin Inn, which ended up being a perfectly fine place for a few nights.

Other options include The Astoria Hotel (lodging with lots of character and charm), Whistler’s Inn (surrounded by mountains), and HI Jasper (hostel just a short walk from downtown). 

Find more hotel options in Jasper here.

Getting a National Parks Pass:

Yes, Banff is a National Park (I don’t know if everyone realizes that), and yes, you need to pay to get in (even if you’re staying in the nearby town of Canmore). 

When visiting the Rocky Mountain National Parks, (which you’ll do quite often on this road trip from Calgary to Jasper), you’ll need a valid parks pass to enter any of them, including Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, or Yoho National Park.

The cost of entry into the National Parks is determined by how many days you’ll be in the parks, as well as how many people are in the car. For example, the cost of a day pass is $9.80CAD, meaning if you’re in the parks for 4 days, it’ll be $39.20CAD per person.

However, if you’ve got more than 2 people in your vehicle, there are savings to be made (a pass for 2 people vs 7 people is the same price). So gather up all your travel besties and maybe rent a van? :p

Depending on how long you’re visiting the parks for, how many people you’re traveling with, and if you’re pretty sure you’ll be returning within the year, it may make sense to purchase an annual Discovery Pass for $136CAD. This website will recommend the best value option for your group. 

In addition, be sure to purchase passes ahead of time so you don’t waste precious minutes waiting for them upon arrival, as the lines can get mighty long (especially in the popular summer months).

An important note on wildlife:

You’re in the wilderness out here → expect to see some wildlife. Always carry bear spray with you and always go hiking in groups (at least 2 people). Always be alert for wildlife, as they may surprise you, especially while hiking (always stay on the trails) and even while driving around the parks. 

Be sure to educate yourself before you do run into wildlife, and always keep a safe distance. NEVER attempt to pet/feed/chase/touch any animal, no matter how harmless or cute or docile they may look. And never step out of your car when bears are present, promise me that. Photos are great – but never at the expense of your life.

Remember, bears are living creatures, and can/will attack when threatened. Keep your distance and if you feel the need for better photos, bring along a zoom lens and crack open the window (when safe).

On my few visits to the Canadian Rockies I’ve seen bighorn sheep, a bunch of black bears, elk, and even a few grizzlys. With just a few days in the area, you’re bound to see some wildlife. Be on the lookout and stay safe. And don’t go out of your vehicle when bears are present – just don’t do it! I can’t stress that last point enough!

What to Pack

When you visit really determines what you’ll need to bring, but you’ll always need: bug spray, bear spray (yes, bear spray), binoculars, a raincoat (yes, even in summer), sunscreen (yes, even in winter), hiking layers, a camera, and reusable water bottle.

→ Psst – check out this (very) in-depth road trip packing guide to ensure you don’t forget anything!

Driving times from Calgary to Jasper:

The entire drive from Calgary → Canmore → Banff → Lake Louise → Jasper is roughly 5 hours. Just remember you’ll need to drive back to Calgary if you’re flying home outta there (another ~5 hours), or to Edmonton if you choose two, one way flights (~3 hours, 45 minutes).

While the drives aren’t necessarily super long, you’ll probably wanna stop every 15 minutes or so to take photos along the way. Be sure to factor that into driving times if you’ve got pre-planned activities to get to. There are so many pull offs and lookout points along the highway, it’s hard to decide which ones to stop at. And if you unfortunately miss one, just keep going: they’ll be more soon.

Tips for a successful road trip from Calgary to Jasper and beyond:

1. Stock up on road trip snacks : Before making the drive, stop at a grocery store upon arrival in Calgary to pick up some non-perishables. Snacks will be significantly cheaper over here than in the nearby National Parks. We headed to a Walmart right near the airport for some honey wheat pretzels, kettle corn, chips, and even some goods for lunches – a loaf of olive bread and some salami.

You may want to bring along a packable cooler for some perishable stuff if you’ve got a family to feed. We didn’t feel the need to, but if you’ve got a big family/bunch of friends in your car, it may be worth it to keep some food items in there to reduce the cost of food in the National Parks.

2. Be aware of gas stations: Although there are plenty of gas stations in Calgary, there’s not as many along the road once you leave the city. There are a few in Banff, one in Lake Louise, one at the Saskatchewan Crossing, and a few in Jasper.

I’d suggest always having at least half a tank of gas while on the road traveling between Banff and Jasper, and plan to avoid using the Saskatchewan Crossing petrol station as it’s much more expensive. I like using the GasBuddy app to find stations and their prices, although Google Maps now has this function as well.

3. Be on the lookout for wildlife : As noted above, the Canadian Rockies are filled to the brim with wildlife, especially along the Bow Valley Parkway (highly recommended) and in the more rugged Jasper National Park. Stay safe and never exit your vehicle to get closer to animals. They’re called WILD animals for a reason!

And now, let’s get this Canadian Rockies road trip from Calgary to Jasper started!

Day 1: CALGARY

Let’s face it, this Canadian Rockies trip will most likely be starting in Calgary , so if you’ve got the time, may as well explore (at least for a little while!). We chose to get a move on it and started off driving directly to Banff, so you could totally leave Calgary towards the end of your trip (like we did) if you’re planning on driving round trip.

OR you can totally skip out on Calgary altogether (if you’d like the extra time in the mountains), but it’s such a vibrant little city it’d be a shame to miss it!

However, in order to save time (or if you just wanna tack on another city to your Canadian Rockies itinerary), you may want to fly back home out of Edmonton, which is slightly closer to Jasper than Calgary is. With that being said, choose to see Calgary before making your way to Banff if you’ve decided not to back track to Calgary after your week in the Canadian Rockies is over.

If you’ve only allotted one day in Calgary, pick and choose from the following attractions: Calgary Tower (for city vistas with a revolving restaurant), Calgary Zoo, Glenbow Museum (artworks and local history on display), Heritage Park Historical Village, Prince’s Island Park, Canada Olympic Park, RiverWalk (go for a stroll or bike ride), and walk over the Peace Bridge.

We only had time for a quick stroll and some food, and chose to eat at Native Tongues (my cucumber pineapple agua fresca was perfect on a warm, sunny day), and of course grab some cones at Village Ice Cream (wildly popular).

On our walk we checked out the Central Library (really interesting architecture) and saw the Calgary Tower from afar. I obviously need to get back to Canada and spend more time in Calgary.

Read Next: The Complete Guide to Calgary (my friend living in Calgary wrote this for me, so this guide is from a local and include lots of secret tips!)

Where to Stay in Calgary: As noted earlier, we opted to stay at the Hyatt Place Calgary Airport , but if you’re spending time in Calgary at the beginning of your trip, stay downtown! The Hotel Arts Kensington , Hotel Fairmont Palliser , and Aloft Hote l all look like great options!

Day 2: CANMORE

Depending on how much time you’ve got, I highly recommend making a short stop in Canmore Town, whether it be for a few quick hours or for the night. This picturesque mountain town is often overlooked by tourists, meaning it’s usually not as crowded as Banff (although it’s been getting more popular in recent years).

Canmore’s got much more of a local vibe, tons of craggy mountain views (it’s known for summits like the Three Sisters and Ha Ling Peak), and a bunch of turquoise blue lakes. 

P.S. If you’re hoping to take a helicopter tour of the Canadian Rockies (highly recommended, FYI), it’ll likely take off in Canmore (as did our dog sledding tour when we visited Banff in the winter ). 

Early Morning : Start the morning off by making the quick 1-hour drive from Calgary to Canmore. Sure, you could drive all the way to Banff today (it’s just another 30 minutes or so), but why not make a pit stop in another cute mountain town along the way?

At first, the drive from Calgary to Canmore will seem boring and lackluster, but once you get a bit closer to the Rockies, BAM, those mountains will be all you see. The scenery will drastically change the closer and closer you get to Canmore/Banff; you’ll quickly see what I mean after your first mountain peak view.

Mid-Morning/Afternoon: Start off your time in the Rockies with a BeaverTail in Canmore (essentially fried dough with a whole lotta sugar), and then pick and choose a few of these highlights of Canmore. 

Main Highlights of Canmore:

1. Helicopter ride over the Canadian Rockies: I loved this oh so much, I did it twice – once in the lush summer months, and once in the frigid winter temps. We flew over the Three Sisters mountain range, the Goat Mountain range, Spray Lakes, and oh so much more.

You may need to keep your itinerary quite flexible if you’re planning to head up in the skies during winter time, as difficult weather can unfortunately cancel many heli rides.

Visiting during the summer? There’s a much better chance you’ll encounter optimal helicopter ride weather! It’s from up there in the skies that you realize just how massive, awe-inspiring, and unbelievable the Rocky Mountains actually are. Super scenic, undeniably smooth, and somewhat thrilling. If you’re looking for a bucket list check, I highly recommend a heli ride over the mountains. 

2. Walk around the mountain town of Canmore: Sure, you’ll most likely be walking around Banff Town as well, but the town of Canmore has a slightly different vibe. Here in Canmore you’ll find more trendy boutique shops (instead of the tacky tourist shops in Banff), and more local dining options (instead of the chain restaurants found in Banff).

I like to grab a beaver tail and indulge while admiring the mountain views all around town. 

3. Meal at Communitea: If you happen to be hanging out in Canmore when hunger strikes, I highly recommend grabbing some food at Communitea (my favorite!). The second we stepped inside this vibrant cafe I totally understood all the hype – this place has a huuuge variety of hot teas (because tea’s always a good idea) and a great selection of health-related eats.

Note that they close around 6/7ish, so plan to eat an early dinner if you’re coming in on the later side of the day. Psst – not sure what to order? Get any of the buddha bowls or the pad thai – allll phenomenal choices.

4. Go for a hike: As there are so many hiking trails in Canmore, it’s hard to choose just one (lucky you if you have more time in the area!). The most popular ones include the Grassi Lakes Hike (a 4.3km hike full of stunning pristine mountain lake views), Quarry Lake Loop (a super short 1.2km walk around the lake), and the East End of Rundle Hike (a much more strenuous uphill 5.6km trek – a great leg burner)!

Where to Stay: Tonight, either finish the drive to Banff (roughly 30 minutes or so), and sleep/eat in Banff, or book a hotel in Canmore (for either just tonight or for the duration of your stay in Banff*).

*You can opt to stay in Canmore in order to save a bit on accommodation when touring Banff, but do note that it’s roughly 30 minutes away, and with summer traffic, you’re likely looking at longer drives. Decide for yourself if the cost savings are worth the potential extra driving.

Highly rated accommodation options in Canmore include: Malcolm Hotel , Basecamp Resorts Canmore , and the Solara Resort & Spa .

Days 3-4: BANFF NATIONAL PARK

Next up, Banff National Park; the real reason for this drive from Calgary to Jasper, am I right? Rocky mountain peaks, a picturesque (albeit crowded) mountain town, glistening glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife. Banff is quite possibly one of my favorite places in the entire world. And I’ve been lucky to visit some pretty epic destinations.

With two full days in Banff , you can easily see all the area’s highlights. If you’re planning on doing a longer hike or two, plan an extra day or so in the park. And remember to bring along some bear spray, sold at numerous shops in town (better to be safe than sorry!).

Technically , Banff National Park includes Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, but as they’re located a bit north, we’ll cover them in the next few days. No need to rush as long as you’ve got the time!

Grab a digital map of Banff National Park here .

Honestly, you can do the activities listed below on either day in any order, but the plan I wrote out below just makes sense geographically and crowd-wise (although expect crowds in summer regardless of when you visit). Best to start the day as early as possible!

Day 1 in Banff:

1. Sunshine Village Gondola at Banff Sunshine Meadows: Start the day at Banff Sunshine Meadows, a ski resort on the outskirts of town, known for its intense ski trails come winter and moderate hikes once ski season is over. This place is pretty jam-packed come winter, but you’ll find it relatively quiet in the hot, summer months.

We took the gondola up, and loved walking throughout the wildflowers. We almost decided to take a short hike to one of the lakes for closer views, but quickly decided against it once we heard there’d been a grizzly sighting near the path just the day before (and we had no bear spray with us!).

The view from the lookout point was satisfying enough – just check out that photo! And don’t be like us- be sure to bring along some bear spray if you’re planning a hike!

2. Banff Town Center: This town is the epitome of a true mountain town – with peaks dominating its skyline, chateau-style hotels, lots of souvenir shopping options, and tons of wildlife (yes, bear spray is much-needed over in these parts).

Can’t find what you’re looking for? Just walk up and down the side streets – you’ll find BeaverTails (don’t miss this iconic greasy treat), homemade fudge, ice cream, and possibly even a few deer! Just be aware you won’t be the only one going for a stroll – summer sees a swarm of visitors, so be prepared to dodge some crowds along the way.

Don’t miss out on the poutine, cheese (and chocolate) fondue, and my favorite breakfast/coffee spots – Whitebark Cafe, Wild Flour, and Good Earth Coffeehouse.

3. Banff Gondola: One of the most popular things to do around here is the Banff Gondola, a scenic cableway heading to the summit of Sulphur Mountain to reach its 360 degree rooftop observation deck.

From up here you’ll get panoramic views of the town of Banff, stunning Bow River, and the surrounding mountains. We were in such awe the entire time; pictures do not do this place justice (take my word for it).

We found the best views by walking a bit further along the path, on the Banff SkyWalk Vista Trail, where thankfully the crowd dispersed quite a bit. We even saw a few bighorn mountain sheep up here, casually strolling around and posing for photos. 

Do note that it’s kinda expensive to take the Banff Gondola, with prices currently around $55CAD. If you wanna slash the cost of that admission ticket, plan a 2 hour hike up the summit of Sulphur Mountain, and get the same views fo’ free!

This moderately-strenuous hike (6.8miles of a series of switchbacks) provides stunning views of Bow Valley almost the entire way, but it’s not for the faint of heart. On my first visit to Banff, I hiked up (wanting to save the cash for things like poutine and beaver tails), while I took the gondola the last two times.

Depending on what month you visit, the gondola and parking lot may be exceptionally crowded (especially in prime summer months). We had to park a bit aways away, but trust me- no matter the season, the gondola is one activity you don’t wanna miss (if you like nice views and all…).

We stayed for sunset and the golden hues on the mountains and surrounding trees left me speechless. 

Psst- it gets chilly up here! Expect the temps to drop quite a few degrees once you reach the top of the gondola (yes, in both winter and summer). Had I known that, I may not have worn a dress, as I got goosebumps quite quickly!

4. Banff Upper Hot Springs: Finish off the day with a relaxing soak in the hot springs (about 2 minutes away from the Banff gondola). I mean, what could be better than soaking in a warm bath with 63,537 of your closest friends? Nothing, as long as said bath is nestled in the Canadian Rocky Mountains with views of Mt. Rundle across the valley. 

I visited twice ( once in winter and the other in the heat of the summer), and have to say that the Upper Hot Springs are even more spectacular when the temps are below zero (and yes, your hair will freeze and turn gray – it happens to everyone, and returns back to its normal state quickly after leaving).

Be prepared to wait in line, as the hot springs are a popular attraction no matter the weather. Bring your own bathing suit if you aren’t keen on donning one of their 1950’s vibes bathing costumes (but do know this is an option if you decide you spontaneously need a dip).

Day 2 in Banff: 

1. Johnston Canyon Hike/Bow Valley Parkway: If rushing waterfalls, limestone cliffs, and turquoise pools get you going, plan a morning at Johnston Canyon. Note that the farther you venture, the more you’ll see. You can hike to the lower falls in 1 easy mile (roundtrip), upper falls in 3 miles (roundtrip and a bit more strenuous), and the ink pots in 6.5 miles (plan at least 3 hours for this roundtrip trek).

We managed to trek to the lower and upper falls in roughly 2 hours or so, and most definitely recommend this! The hike to the falls is relatively easy, partially on wooden/steel catwalks and paved roads. In winter, it’s covered in snow and a whole different spectacle. Think ice crystals and icicles at every turn; it’s like stepping into Narnia. 

You’ll want to get here early if visiting in summer (yes, we already established it’s busy, busy, busy this time of year), as the parking lot gets filled up quite early, as in we arrived at 9am and it was full (there’s extra parking down the road, don’tchu worry).

In order to get to Johnston Canyon you’ll be taking the Bow Valley Parkway (1A), which is known to be filled with wildlife – be sure to keep a close eye out for any animals on the road! 

2. Lake Minnewanka and Two Jack Lake: Our first set of lakes in Banff – I mean, that’s a huge reason you’re coming to this region, right?! And PS – some even prefer these two lakes to Lake Louise (although I’m semi-obsessed with the latter).

The way the mountain reflects in the glacial water is absolutely mesmerizing, and luckily, there’s boats that can take you out on the lake! Be sure to book online in order to bypass the (possibly very-long) cue. It’s a favorite activity during the warm, summer months!

If you don’t have time for a boat ride, just stroll along the shore (minimal physical effort required). Wanna stretch your legs? There’s a great trail – be sure to watch out for the mountain goats and chipmunks! 

Visiting in the popular summer months? Consider taking the bus straight from Banff Town, as it can be exceptionally easy (and parking can get quite difficult due to crowds). Do note the lake will be frozen over if you’re visiting in the (beyond)-chilly winter months – still beautiful nonetheless.

3. Surprise Corner: You’re driving and driving along Tunnel Mountain Road, and then, BAM! There’s the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (and Sulphur Mountain) in the distance. You’ll only need a few minutes over here to check out the view, but boy, is the short drive worth it. There’s no sign here, so just follow your Google Maps and you’ll see it straight away.

4. Bow Falls Viewpoint: This scenic spot is so close to the town of Banff it’d be just plain old silly to skip it (a quick 5 minute drive or a lovely 20 minute walk if the weather’s nice). And get this – the waterfall has even been featured in several 1950’s films; remember Marilyn Monroe in River of No Return (yup, that’s Bow Falls!).

It’s peaceful with sounds of the soothing water (with the roar of the water over the falls as well); a great place to enjoy nature! Yes, most of Banff is just that, as the entire area’s full of scenic beauty. There’s benches and tables around the park, making it the perfect spot for a late afternoon picnic. Visiting in winter? → expect the falls to be frozen (only making them even more spectacular)!

Where to Stay in Banff: Thankfully, there are a great deal of hotels/motels/lodges in Banff Town to choose from – at all price points (ranging from a few bucks a night all the way to hundreds and hundreds). I’ve stayed in a few different spots in Banff, namely Irwin’s Mountain Inn (typical mountain lodge), Samesun Banff (hostel in a great location), and the Moose Hotel & Suites . 

Everyone raves and raves about the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel , and in all reality, what’s not to love? It’s a castle , after all. Next time I visit Banff, I’m staying here (even if I have to convince my travel partner it’s worth it). Do note that hotels in Banff get booked up waaaay in advance for the high summer season, so if you have a particular hotel in mind, be sure to plan ahead (like 5-6 months).

Days 5-6: TURQUOISE LAKES AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS 

When people think of Banff, the activities on today’s agenda are what they typically think of! Prepare your eyes for some of the bluest glacial water you’ve ever seen – I’ve been a few times and I’m still just as blown away as during my first visit.

FYI – you can switch around Days 5 and 6 if you’d like.

Just remember, if you’re visiting during the busy summer season, all three lakes will be exceptionally crowded. Plan to arrive as early as you possibly can, not only to dodge some crowds, but to ensure parking as well (the lots fill up fast).

You can easily visit all 3 lakes in 2 days, just understand with only 2 mornings for 2 lakes, you’ll definitely find lots of crowds at the 3rd.

My recommendation: do Moraine Lake first thing one morning (like, super early), and Emerald Lake the other. Plan to hang around Lake Louise both days, possibly kayaking around the lake one day, and going for a hike on the other. Plus, 2 afternoons at Lake Louise gives you better chances for that picture-perfect postcard weather. 

And if you’re suuuuper short on time, you can squeeze all three in during just one day! Plan to arrive at Moraine Lake around 5am, visit Lake Louise for the rest of the morning/early-afternoon, then spend the remainder of the day at Emerald Lake. It’ll be a long and crowded day, but worth it to see all three. 

Keep in mind that if you’re visiting Banff in the snowy winter months , these lakes will be frozen over. I enjoyed Lake Louise in the winter just as much as during the summer, although did not make it to Moraine Lake or Emerald Lake.

The road to Moraine Lake (Moraine Lake Road) actually closes from mid-October to mid-May (dates change slightly every year) due to avalanche risk, although snowshoeing and cross country skiing is available at Emerald Lake during the winter.

Find additional and up-to-date restrictions and road closures on the official Parks Canada website.  

Lake Louise

Get ready, because today is full of striking turquoise-colored lakes, snow-covered mountain tops, those famous red canoes, and loads and loads of people (face it, this is a sought after part of the world). You’d be downright silly to skip out on Lake Louise during your Canadian Rockies road trip.

Ohhhh Lake Louise. The crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies. I promise you, a stop over here will be one of your favorites on this Calgary to Jasper itinerary. She’s an absolute stunner, known for her chilly, turquoise waters with Victoria Glacier and soaring mountains overlooking the lake (with the beautiful Fairmont Lake Louise on her shoreline).

You’ll want to plan at least a few hours here, if not a whole day, as you’ll find yourself in awe at every corner and with enough activities to last quite a while. 

However (yes, of course there’s a however), the time of year you visit Lake Louise makes a hell of a difference. Note that the waters of Lake Louise do not fully thaw until late May or early June, so if you’re hoping to witness the lake in all her stunning turquoise glory, wait until mid-late summer for a visit to the Rockies.

April and May will bring more tranquility and solitude, but no one can promise those striking turquoise waters until July. And, as expected, the lake will be iced over in the freezing winter months, with part of the snow cleared for ice skating! 

You could easily spend multiple days at Lake Louise, taking in it’s sheer beauty and just admiring the Victoria Glacier in the distance. With two half days, you can most definitely get in the highlights below:

Main Highlights of Lake Louise:

Walk around the lake: Yes, Lake Louise is crowded beyond disbelief. However, if you stray from the area near the hotel, you’ll find much more peace and quiet.

Plan to walk around the lake on the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail (at least part-way), and you’ll encounter tons of milky-blue creeks and picturesque meltwater along this easy and super-scenic trail. Look back and you’ll even get great views of the grand Fairmont Lake Louise, which is a stunner in it’s own way.

Rent a famous red canoe : Many visitors want that iconic Canadian experience of paddling around the stunningly scenic turquoise lake (and yes, I was one of them). However, do note that renting a canoe is quite pricey, and will set you back around $125CAD per hour.

If you’re a guest of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise , you are eligible for a decent discount which definitely helps (cost would be $85CAD per hour).

It can get quite crowded, so if you have your heart set on paddling around, head to the boathouse first thing upon arrival – the other activities can wait. I rented a canoe with 2 friends (max 3 adults or 2 adults/2 small kids), which helped decrease cost per person quite a bit).

Wander around the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise : Even if you’re not staying at the stunning chateau, plan to spend a bit of time in and around the hotel. Elegance and sheer beauty at it’s best!

Admire the architecture. Make sure to stop by the terrace, as you’ll get fantastic views of the lake from here. And if you can’t bare to take your eyes off the lake, plan for lunch at the Lakeview Lounge (and ask for a window seat!). Afterwards, browse through the stores and grab some dessert at the cafe.

Go for a hike : Wanna see Lake Louise from above? What about burning off some of those BeaverTail-induced calories? There are numerous hikes to quaint mountain top tea houses above Lake Louise, including Lake Agnes Tea House (4.4miles/6.2km) with the additional extensions of Little/Big Beehive (+2/3 km), and the Plain of Six Glaciers (8miles/13km).

These have quite the view to effort ratio (meaning phenomenal views for only moderate activity). You’ll want to set aside a few hours for each of these hikes, and expect the tea houses to be fairly crowded in the summer months.

Moraine Lake 

Moraine Lake is by far the most picturesque of all the hotspots in the area (and many even call it more spectacular than Lake Louise, myself included). BUT it’s kinda a b*tch to visit (you heard that right).

You need to plan your timing right if you actually wanna see the lake in all its glory, since you need to visit very early in the morning (and I mean early). The parking lot gets filled up by 6-7am at the absolute latest (and, yes, I’m dead serious), meaning in order to ensure a spot, you’ll want to arrive no later than 5am. Yupppp, insane, right?!

There’s another way to visit without all the crowds, although it’ll still be a very early morning wake up call. Not many take advantage of this, but there are early bird buses departing from the overflow parking lot of Lake Louise right off the main road.

These buses will take you directly to Moraine Lake for just a few bucks (departing from 6-7:30ish, be sure to check the schedule in advance). This way, you don’t need to get there at 5am, and can easily park in a lot.

Really have a thing against early mornings (I hear ya). You can plan to take the shuttle bus from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake a bit later in the morning, but be sure to get your ticket as soon as you arrive (tickets were sold out once we finished exploring Lake Louise and wanted to head to Moraine Lake).

We thought we could casually walk up to the shuttle line and snag a ticket – no siree! For this option, plan to drive directly to Lake Louise, and you’ll see buses for Moraine Lake in the parking lot. Just remember, get your timed ticket as soon as you arrive!

Once you get to Moraine Lake, plan to climb up the large rock pile, as that’s where the famous lookout spot is located (and where these photos were taken). This view, the lake surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks, is actually one of the most photographed images of nature in the world. The world. Aka don’t snooze your alarm!

The hike only takes a few minutes (15 minutes tops), and despite what others say, the path is pretty well-marked and clear. I climbed up in Converse and was just fine.

You can also rent a kayak over here, but in my honest opinion, the most rewarding views are from up above. From up here, you’ll get to witness the snowy peaks of the mountains mirrored in the still turquoise waters below; it’s an absolutely mesmerizing sight. Promise me you won’t forget your camera.

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is actually located within Yoho National Park in nearby British Columbia, and is unfortunately overlooked by so many tourist s . Don’t be one of them! Make sure you include Emerald Lake into your Banff itinerary (once you see the photos you’ll see why).

Trust me, after seeing the glistening, emerald waters with the greenest pine trees reflecting in the water, you’ll never want to leave. It’s just that gorgeous. Be sure to take a walk around the perimeter of the lake, as you’ll find yourself away from the crowds with the place almost to yourselves.

This is another spot where you can rent a canoe, and thankfully it’s a tad bit cheaper than over at Lake Louise, although will still cost you a pretty penny (worth it, yes!).

You can also make a short stop at Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park, although we did not have time for this (we spent too much time gawking over the water of Emerald Lake – figures).

Where to Stay near Lake Louise: There are a few accommodation options in the Lake Louise area, although you could choose to spend an additional night in Banff instead. My top choice – stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise . Yes, it’s pricey, and yes, it can be crowded mid-day, but one look at it and you’ll be wishing you were staying there.

If you still wanna be right near the lake but not shell out crazy money, the Deer Lodge is a great option as well. In addition, Emerald Lake Lodge, a peaceful resort overlooking, you guessed it, Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, is a great choice as well if you wanna stay away from all the hustle and bustle (finally checked this off my bucket list when we visited Banff in November !).

Day 7: ICEFIELDS PARKWAY

Say goodbye to those stunning glacial lakes, because we’re continuing on with this Canadian Rockies road trip on the Icefields Parkway!

Head on up to Jasper National Park via the impressive Icefields Parkway (this wouldn’t be a very thorough Banff travel blog without mentioning this)! Whatever you do, you absolutely cannot miss this stunning drive.

It’s full of lush pine forests, jagged snow-covered peaks, and tons of wildlife spotting opportunities (bighorn sheep, mountain goats, moose, and bears are known to frequent the highway – watch out!), making it one of the world’s most spectacular driving routes.

This will be a very full, action packed drive, so plan to start early and be thankful for that extra light if you’re visiting in the summer. The entire drive should take roughly 3 hours from Lake Louise to Jasper (without stopping), so dedicate the whole day so you don’t feel super rushed.

Plan for some traffic in the busy summer months, and note that in some spots along the highway the speed reduces to a slow 50km/hr.

You’ll want to pack a picnic lunch (we had peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and a few snacks like pretzels, granola bars, etc) since there’s not many options for decent food along the road. Also – make sure to fill up your gas tank in Banff/Lake Louise, as there’s really only one gas station along the way, and the prices are exorbitant.

We did the following in one day and found it a great use of time:

Stop 1: Bow Lake

Driving northbound (coming from Banff/Lake Louise), Bow Lake will be the first stop you want to make along the Icefields Parkway. Known for its delicate glacial blues and fantastic reflections (and fewer crowds), it’s not one to miss. 

However, reflections and water color is highly dependent on the weather. The first time I visited the water was especially calm and serene, and I got the most gorgeous mountain reflections, but during the next visit there was some wind, resulting in small ripples forming in the water, with zero reflections. You’ll probably have the best luck with reflections in the early morning.

No matter the weather, look out for Bow Falls and Bow Glacier in the distance. Take some time to go for a walk along the shoreline, and check out the historical Num-Ti-Jah Lodge!

Psst – the lake is very easy to access as it’s right off the road, and parking is very convenient.

Stop 2: Peyto Lake

I’m sure you’ve seen photo after photo of this stunning glacial lake, as Peyto Lake is alllll over social media. You won’t wanna miss this lake, I can promise you that! It’s by far one of the best views in all of the Canadian Rockies in my opinion (with the water glistening against snow capped mountains and deep, green trees), and a wonderful way to spend a mid-morning. 

And no, it’s not filled with electric blue Gatorade, although it sure looks like it! The distinctive blue color is oh so real, and is due to rock flour particles from nearby glacial melt. Make sure to notice the shape of the lake – it actually looks like a wolf head! And ohhh, it’ll be crowded.

When inputting a location into your GPS, be sure to put in “Bow Summit”, as this is where the Peyto Lake overlook is. Do note that unlike Bow Lake which can be accessed right from the parking lot, you’ll need to take a short, 15 minute uphill hike from the lower parking lot to reach the Peyto Lake viewpoint. 

There is another parking lot (the upper parking lot), but this is reserved for tour buses and those with handicapped stickers, which is about a 2 minute walk to the overlook.

Be extra careful taking pictures here if you venture off the path (do so at your own discretion). I’ve read that there are additional (albeit unmarked) trails leading to a spot slightly lower than Bow Summit, where you can find some peace and quiet and even more stunning views. 

Stop 3: Athabasca Glacier/Columbia Icefield Adventure

Ever step foot on a 10,000 year-old sheet of ice before? Well, today’s your chance to get up close and personal with Athabasca Glacier and do just that! In order to get directly on the ice, you’ll need to take a tour organized by the Columbia Icefield Discovery tourist center. 

On the tour we traveled a few minutes to the Athabasca Glacier via snow-coach (an all-terrain vehicle with tires bigger than me!),  drank the pure glacial melt water (bring a water bottle for this), learned all about the history of glaciers in the area, and walked on the crunchy ice.

Do note that it’s practically freezing on the glacier (yes, even in the middle of summer), so be sure to bundle up! You’ll have roughly 20 minutes on the ice, which doesn’t sound like long, but we froze in a matter of minutes!

Is the Ice Explorer Tour worth it? I say yes, but it is quite expensive (at $87CAD at the time of this writing – January 2020). The only way you’ll really be able to experience the ice is by getting bussed directly onto the glacier. Do note that you are able to observe the glacier from afar and even walk on it’s edges, but it’s NOTHING like stepping foot in the middle of it.

Prebook your SnoCoach tickets ahead of time to bypass the (usually-very-long) line at the Icefield Discovery Centre. The Skywalk, a jaw-dropping walk along a glass floor 918 feet above Sunwapta Valley with breathtaking vistas every which way you look, is included in the ticket price as well. The real star of the show is the Ice Explorer though.

If walking on a glacier is on your bucket list, don’t miss out. Unfortunately, the glacier is receding at an alarming rate, which is a clear indication of global warming. 🙁

Thankfully, the folks at Columbia Icefield take as much precaution as they can to slow the melting of the glacier as best they can (I.e using special snow-coaches which are careful not to crack the ice, limiting the # of visitors per day, etc).

Other spots along the Icefields Parkway you may want to stop at include Herbert Lake, Mistaya Canyon, Weeping Wall (Cirrus Mountain), Parker Ridge Trail for a bit of hiking (~5km round trip), and Wilcox Pass Trail for a longer trek (~10km).

G rab a digital map of the Icefields Parkway here .

Where to Stay the night: I highly recommend that you continue the drive on the Icefields Parkway until you reach your hotel in Jasper (another hour or so north, depending where you’re staying obviously).

This way, you can start your first day in Jasper bright and early the next morning. And honestly, there’s really no reason to stay anywhere along the Icefields Parkway, as 8-10 hours will give you sufficient time to enjoy all the must-see sights. 

*And plus, if you’re planning to drive back to Banff after visiting Jasper, you’ll have another day (or partial day) to see the scenic stops on the Icefields Parkway. Jasper hotel recommendations below.

Days 8-9: JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Jasper is like Banff’s more rugged, less-crowded little sister, despite being larger in size and offering if not even more scenic beauty. The area is full of glaciers, lakes, and more peaks than you ever thought imaginable, with Mt. Edith Cavell towering over the town at 11k+ feet.

And due to its more remote area (5+ hours from Calgary instead of a mere 1.5 to Banff), you’ll find less visitors to Jasper (although the prime summer months still see an influx of out of towners).

You could easily spend weeks exploring all that Jasper National Park has to offer, but if you’re tight on time like I was, 2 days will suffice.

And if you haven’t seen much wildlife on your Canadian rockies road trip just yet, don’t fret – you’re bound to see lots in Jasper. 

Fewer crowds to Jasper mean a higher bear population, so be sure to take along your binoculars and bear spray and always practice bear safety (never get out of the car with a bear present, no matter how far away and when hiking, make noise and never go alone).

Native wildlife to the area include elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, white-tail deer, and, as mentioned, lots (and lots) of bears (grizzly and black) in the vast wilderness that is Jasper National Park. 

Really wanna ensure you see some wildlife?! → sign up for an organized evening or morning wildlife search (when the animals are most active)! Your guide will select the route based on seasonal wildlife movements, ultimately giving you the best chance of seeing the animals. Read reviews and  Sign up here.

Grab a free digital map of Jasper National Park here ahead of time to get your bearings!

First day in Jasper: 

Stop #1: Maligne Lake and Spirit Island

You cannot drive all the way to Jasper National Park and not visit Maligne Lake. It’s by far one of the most photographed locations in Jasper, (well, in all of Canada, actually), thanks to Spirit Island (only accessible by boat tours), it’s stunning azure colors, and views of the three glaciers.

And plus, it’s the largest natural lake in all of the Canadian Rockies (and we know how many of them there are!).

I recommend heading to Maligne Lake first thing in the morning, as this large lake is popular for a reason. It’s the furthest spot on the list for today (~1 hour), but you’ll be backtracking the rest of the day towards the town of Jasper, so it’s not so bad!

You’ll want to set aside some time for the ever-so-popular scenic boat cruise around the lake, which makes a quick (20 minute) stop at Spirit Island. And once you get off at Spirit Island, the time goes extra fast, so be sure to take all your photos right away!

I’ve done the boat tour twice, and it’s probably an activity I’ll be doing on all my trips to Jasper. Yes, it’s on the expensive side ($75CAD for 90 minutes and $110CAD for 120minutes), but well worth it in my opinion.

Canoes and kayaks are available from the boat house if you don’t want to take a scenic cruise around the lake and to Spirit Island.

Note that you CAN paddle to Spirit Island yourself, but it’s quite far at 14km from the Curly Phillips boat house (anyone up for an epic, yet tiresome paddle?). And just FYI, the water is quite chilly (like all other lakes in the Canadian Rockies), so you probably won’t wanna swim (or fall) in it.

You’ll also find a visitor center, the pier where the boat tours launch from, and a cafeteria-style restaurant at Maligne Lake (although I recommend making your own sandwiches).

Stop #2: Medicine Lake (The disappearing lake)

A relatively short stop, but may as well park for a few minutes since it’s kinda on the way to Maligne Canyon (our next stop)! Medicine Lake, known as the Disappearing Lake to some, does just that – the water vanishes (and then reappears) each year, making it a quite unique body of water. And how does this happen? By continuous draining through a network of underground caves. How cool is that?!

If you want to actually see the water, be sure to visit before late Fall, as by then the lake is gone, leaving behind a giant mudflat (where you’ll sometimes see moose grazing). The water refills in the spring when the snow melts from the surrounding mountains (I think…).

Look around, you may even see mountain goats, a bunch of Pika (a small furry animal), and/or a bald eagle or two (we saw one in a nearby nest!).

Stop #3: Maligne Canyon

I stopped to hike Maligne Canyon both times I was in the area (this past summer and a few summers ago), and highly recommend it! Being the deepest slot canyon (a whopping 50 meters!) in Jasper National Park, Maligne Canyon is not to be missed!

And get this – it’s narrow enough in some places that squirrels can safely jump across (brave little guys if you ask me – it’s a looooong way down).

If you want to do the entire hike across all six bridges it’ll take you a few hours, but many (including myself) opt to take in the views from the first few bridges. We started the hike from the First Bridge, which is where most people begin as well. There are fantastic viewpoints along the trail (did someone say waterfalls), pleasant strolls through the forest, and oh so many photo opps of the narrow canyon.

It’s downright fascinating to think how the gushing water has eroded the rocks and carved the gorge over thousands and thousands of years. Oh, Mother Nature, you’re pretty wild.

Don’t feel like getting around yourself on stops #1-#3? Neither did we (exploring in the Canadian Rockies is hard work :p). We actually chose to sign up for this full-day Jasper Wildlife and Waterfall tour , which stopped at Medicine Lake and Maligne Canyon, and included a 90-minute boat ride at Maligne Lake to Spirit Island.

The tour also included plenty of wildlife searching, and we saw quite a few bears right alongside the coach and plenty of curious pika! Sign up here for the exact tour we did!

If you prefer to get your hiking on instead of cruise along on a boat tour of Maligne Lake, opt for this tour instead (psst – it’s cheaper but doesn’t include that highly coveted stop at Spirit Island).

Stop #4: Pyramid and Patricia Lakes

If you have more time and haven’t had enough of the lakes just yet, Pyramid and Patricia are your answer. Go on a walk around this pair of lakes (complete with beautiful reflections) – but don’t forget your bear spray! Both are much quieter than all the previous lakes on this Canadian rockies itinerary, so be sure to talk loudly or even sing every few minutes to alert the bears to stay away. 

Not up for a long walk? Go kayaking instead! Don’t expect the same wow factor of Emerald Lake or Lake Louise, but you’ll be surrounded by mountains – what more do you need?!

Although we didn’t make it here ourselves, I heard it’s a great place to watch the sunset! Which I will be doing on my next trip to Jasper (hopefully sooner than later). And technicallyyyy you could walk here from town since the paths are clearly marked, but it’d likely take you the better portion of the day (your choice!).

Second day in Jasper:

The activities on today’s list are technically along the Icefields Parkway, but are waaaaay closer to Jasper than Banff. We chose to check out of our hotel early after our second night in Jasper, threw our luggage in the trunk, and hit the ground running for Calgary (via Banff), making the following stops along the way.

And just FYI, we arrived back in Calgary in late-afternoon, just in time to head into town for some dinner and a short walk around town. As noted earlier, you can opt to head to Edmonton (a 4 hour drive from Jasper) if you’d like to explore a new area the next few days instead!

Morning: Edith Cavell Meadows hike

The Edith Cavell Meadows hike was recommended to us by a shop owner in the town of Jasper (while shopping for binoculars), and we cannot thank him enough. It’s apparently the #1 hike in Jasper – how had we not even heard of it before?!

The hike takes visitors to a lake full of frosty icebergs and the mindblowing Angel Glacier, and only takes about 30 minutes to reach (via the Path of the Glacier Trail; an easy 1.6km walk).

If you want to see the glacier from above, you can continue on to Cavell Meadows Summit via the Cavell Meadows Trail (about 7km with some steep inclines). You’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of Mt. Edith Cavell, Angel Glacier, Cavell Glacier, and Cavell Lake below.

Due to our time constraints and wanting to see other attractions in the area, we walked to Cavell Pond via the Path of the Glacier Trail. It was misty and a tad rainy on the morning we went, meaning we had the trail mostly to ourselves (we saw just one other couple on our way down).

I suspect there’d be a much larger crowd in better weather, so be sure to arrive early since the parking lot is pretty small. I definitely want to do this short hike again in clear weather!

Horseshoe Lake: Despite being a relatively small lake (compared to some of the much larger ones we’ve already seen), it’s quite scenic and offers a short trail around the perimeter. Apparently it’s a top cliff-jumping spot, so if that’s your thing, be sure to bring your bathing suit!

Full disclosure: the trail was pretty muddy and a bit flooded (with patches of knee deep water) when we were there, so we opted to head straight back to the car since we weren’t wearing appropriate clothing. 

Athabasca Falls:   Thankfully I got to witness the force of the water of Athabasca Falls on my first visit, as it was unfortunately pouring on my latest visit! A picturesque and powerful waterfall with mountain views behind – what can be better?! It’ll undoubtedly be crowded with tourists, but still worth it in my opinion.  

A super easy and quick spot to visit, even with only a short amount of time. There are self-guided trails and bridges, and a large parking lot, making for easy access! You can even get close enough to feel the spray of the water, providing some nice relief in the hot summer months.

Next time I treat myself to another Canadian Rockies road trip, I wanna visit in winter (it looks downright magical with the frozen falls against the turquoise waters).

Sunwapta Falls:  Yeah, yeah, yeah, I hear you – another waterfall? This twin pair of waterfalls (one upper and one lower) are fed by the Athabasca Glacier – yup, that ice we stood on along the Icefields Parkway!

The upper falls are super easy to get to (literally a few steps from the parking lot), but you’ll need to head down 1.3km to reach the lower falls. And if you’re feeling brave – walk across the footbridge for a better view!

And if you’ve got extra time (or would rather skip out the Mt. Edith Cavell hike in the AM), there’s loads of additional hikes in the area to choose from. Some of the most popular ones include: the Wilcox Pass Trail, Valley of the Five Lakes, and the Sulphur Skyline Trail. I’ll be packing my hiking boots for those next time.

Where to Stay in Jasper:

By far the most popular place to stay in Jasper National Park is the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge . It’s an upscale, rustic retreat, with not only a spa and suites, but golf courses as well. Not looking to live a life of luxury in the mountains (nor pay a pretty penny for it)? 

Other options include The Astoria Hotel (lodging with lots of character and charm), Whistler’s Inn (surrounded by mountains), and HI Jasper (hostel just a short walk from downtown). Since we booked unfathomably late (and by that I mean a month ahead of time), the only accommodation I could find available was at the Tonquin Inn , which ended up being a perfectly fine place for a few nights.

I hope this (massive) guide to a Calgary to Jasper Canadian Rockies itinerary was helpful! Is a Canadian Rockies road trip on your bucket list?! If not, add it ASAP!

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December 9, 2020 at 5:58 am

thank you for sharing such nice content with us.

January 18, 2021 at 10:49 am

Oh, the memories. It has been nearly 30 years since I last went to Lake Louise and Jasper. I loved it so much I'm planning on going again, this time with my family. Great guide…I guess you skipped the tea houses?

January 18, 2021 at 11:21 am

I'm hoping to go again too! Yes – unfortunately we didn't have time, although I'd LOVE to make the hikes up there next time!

August 3, 2021 at 3:35 pm

Great write up ! Thanks for all the tips

August 20, 2021 at 9:48 am

Heading to Banff and Jasper next week for my second visit and your places to visit were all on my list of adventures that I absolutely must see ! I was so happy to find your individual day trip planning itinerary, which we will follow on our road tripping adventure. Thankyou for sharing this. I am so excited to hike this beautiful part of our country and can't wait for my adventure to begin.

September 9, 2023 at 9:47 am

Thanks for sharing this amazing itinerary.

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The Ultimate 7-Day Calgary to Jasper Road Trip

Are you planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies and looking for the best 7-day Calgary-Banff-Jasper itinerary?

Over these past years, our family has enjoyed exploring Alberta and the Canadian Rockies. As such, we’ve been to Banff or Jasper at least once a month (when it wasn’t -30 outside).

To help other traveling families, I’ve created the ultimate 7-day Calgary to Jasper road trip itinerary for families traveling with kids. In this guide, you’ll get a daily playbook for exploring 3 of western Canada’s prettiest cities. You’ll have an epic detailed Banff and Jasper itinerary for 7 days.

So, if you’re planning a road trip from Calgary to Jasper this year, we have the perfect 7-day itinerary for you. Let’s dive straight into the detailed itinerary.

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you .

Calgary, Banff, Jasper Itinerary (7 Days) RECAP

• Day 1: Enjoy Calgary
• Day 2: Drive to Jasper
• Day 3: Jasper
• Day 4: Jasper
• Day 5: Jasper to Banff
• Day 6: Banff
• Day 7: Banff and drive back to Calgary

Day 1: Arrive in Calgary

The first day you reach Calgary, you’ll probably want to relax and check into your hotel.

If you were flying, you’d arrive at Calgary International Airport, a 20-minute drive from downtown Calgary. You can rent a car or a campervan directly from the Calgary airport. Or you can wait downtown. Make sure to reserve your car in advance by comparing options on DiscoverCars.com .

🛏️ Where to stay in Calgary There are many hotel options near the airport . We love the Element Calgary Airport Hotel . It offers hotel rooms with a full kitchen . There is a pool and the breakfast is delicious . But you can try to find a family-friendly hotel directly downtown, such as the Westin Calgary . Then, you can park your car and explore the city by foot.

It will all depend on where you’re coming from, but we always recommend easing into a city rather than trying to cram everything into the first day. This is especially true if you’re traveling with kids , making things even more exhausting for everyone.

There are three activities that we highly suggest for your first day in Calgary with kids if you only have a few hours(depending on the weather):

• Take the C-Train Downtown:  One of the things that Emilie and I did in Calgary was take the kids on the C-Train. You can ride for free between City Hall and 7th Street. There are tons of shops and places to stop along the way.
• Head to Prince Island Park:  If the weather is nice, take a short walk and head to the park. This is a fun little island on the Bow River that’s the perfect place to bring a picnic and let the kids burn off some energy.
• Head over to the Calgary Tower (that big building resembling Seattle’s Space Needle). It’s $18/person for adults, $9 per child aged 4-12, and free for kids 3 and under. We haven’t done this yet , but we’ve heard fantastic things about the experience.

💡 PRO-TIP: If you arrive early in the day and have a full day to spare in Calgary, I highly recommend visiting the Calgary Zoo or Heritage Park Calgary Zoo . The Calgary Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals worldwide, including rare and endangered species. The zoo is divided into thematic zones, such as the Canadian Wilds, Destination Africa, and the Panda Passage , allowing families to embark on a global wildlife adventure without leaving Calgary. With interactive exhibits, playgrounds, and seasonal events like ZooLights in the winter, the Calgary Zoo provides endless animal encounters and learning opportunities. Heritage Park . Heritage Park is a big living history museum. The park offers a rich tapestry of past and present with lots of exhibits and attractions. There’s something for everyone, from historic buildings and antique steam trains to beautiful gardens and a replica 19th-century village. Interactive activities and educational programs make it engaging for kids, while adults will appreciate the attention to historical detail. Bowness Park. Finally, you can grab some ice cream or dinner and walk through Bowness Park. There’s a small pool, a playground, and walking trails by the river. Depending on the time of year, that swimming pool can be an excellent way for the kids to cool off. Have an extra day? Why not head to Drumheller, the dinosaur capital of the world? We’ve spent a few days in that area, and there are LOADS of things for kids to explore. For more information,  check out this helpful post .

Day 2: Drive from Calgary to Banff to Jasper

You’ll want to wake up early and drive from Calgary to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway .

I suggest you download the Canadian Rockies audio tour offered by GuideAlong . It’s a fun way to learn about the region while driving.

A little after Canmore will be the entrance of Banff National Park. The Park Canada pass is required for your stay in the Canadian Rockies , including Banff and Jasper National Parks.

The Icefields Parkway is a 232-kilometer drive (officially Alberta Highway 93) between Lake Louise and Jasper. If you don’t stop, it takes about 4:30 to drive from Calgary to Jasper. But you’ll make at least 100 stops, so plan for the entire day.

💡 PRO-TIP: I always recommend families start their Calgary-Banff-Jasper trip with Jasper, not Banff. The drive from Lake Louise to Jasper is unpredictable, especially if you’re visiting others the summertime. Also, remember that it can still snow in the summer up there, so you’ll want to check the weather reports. The road is well maintained year-round , but there are snowstorms and risks of avalanches. It’s not unusual for the road to be closed for a day, so if you start with that, you’ll have more flexibility and days to reschedule if the weather is really bad.

On your way to Jasper, I recommend doing the following stops (you’ll do the rest on your way back from Jasper to Banff)

• Bow Lake: Enjoy the lakeshore. You can walk by the lakeshore.
• Peyto Lake: A short 2.4-km (1.5-mile) trail will bring you to Peyto Lake, where you can have a breathtaking view of the lake. Can you see the wolf’s shape?
• Saskatchewan River Crossing
• Tangle Fall
• Columbia Icefield and the Athabasca Glacier: If you have the energy, do the Wilcox Pass trail up to the first viewpoint. You’ll have a fantastic view of the Glacier. Plus, you can take some pictures with the famous Parks Canada red chairs.
• BONUS: Columbia Icefield Skywalk

At the end, you’ll arrive in Jasper, where you can walk around and explore the downtown area.

🛏️ Where to stay in Jasper There are many options when it comes to lodging in Jasper National Park. It will depend on the time of year you’re visiting, your budget, and the amenities you want. If you’re traveling with kids, we recommend Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge , Chateau Jasper , HI Jasper (you can read our review here )

Day 3: Jasper National Park

Jasper is a laid-back town with lots of nature to explore .

There are, of course, tons of outdoor activities to do. This is how I recommend you spend your first full day in Jasper.

Start your day with a hike at Maligne Canyon. It’s a 3.7-km (2.3-miles) loop in one of the deepest canyons in the Canadian Rockies . This trail captivates with its stunning limestone walls, waterfalls, and bridges. The trail offers spectacular views of the geological formations and river below.

Then, drive on the Maligne Canyon drive toward Maligne Lake. You’ll want to stop at the mysterious Medicine Lake before arriving at Maligne Lake.

Did You Know? Medicine Lake water levels change throughout the year. The family will enjoy learning about the underground cave system that causes this natural phenomenon. In the summer, it looks like a typical alpine lake, but in the fall and the winter, the water slowly disappears , leaving not much more than mudflat.

If time allows, you can go on a 90-minute Maligne Lake cruise . It will bring you further on the lake to Spirit Island, where you’ll have time to walk around and enjoy the views. We did it once and we really enjoyed the experience. The boat ride is the only way to see Spirit Island with kids (otherwise you have to kayak to the island, which is too much for little ones)

You’ll want to spend the rest of your afternoon at Edith Lake and Annette Lake . It’s the perfect place to play in the sand, paddleboard, or enjoy the water. There are also a lot of charcoal BBQs for an outdoor dinner.

Then, you’ll end your day with an evening at the Jasper Planetarium .

Jasper National Park is one of the largest and most accessible dark sky preserves. The  Jasper Planetarium is the perfect stop to learn about astronomy and see what the sky looks like in different places in the park.  You’ll learn about the cosmos in the immersive dome theater and outside exhibit. The tickets include the dome theater and the telescope tour.

Day 4: Jasper National Park

On your second day in Jasper, you’ll start with a ride on the SkyTram . It’s a gondola, similar to the Banff Gondola (but a little cheaper!).

The first ride is at 9:00 a.m. in the summertime or 10:00 a.m. in the shoulder season. Note that it’s closed in the wintertime . Take your time at the top of the mountain.  It offers panoramic views over Jasper’s mountainous landscapes.  You’ll see the Athabasca River, Edith Lake, and Annette Lake. You’ll even see some of British Columbia’s mountain peaks on a clear day .

Take some time to walk on one of the trails at the summit. I recommend the Whistlers Summit Trail.

In the afternoon, you’ll want to hike the Old Fort Point trail . It’s a This  3.8-kilometer loop trail   with abundant wildlife and some of the most stunning views in the park.

End your day with a stroll in downtown Jasper. You can also eat at one of the restaurants in downtown.

While there are fancier options, we went to Smitty’s, a family-friendly chain. With young kids, we have no reason to pretend like we’re fancy. The Jasper Pizza Place is another great option for families. Plus, it has a cool rooftop terrace.

Day 5: Drive from Jasper to Banff

It’s time to drive back to Banff National Park. You’ll be driving again on the Icefields Parkway. I recommend you make the few stops you didn’t have time to do on the way from Banff to Jasper, including:

• Athabasca Falls
• Sunwapta Falls
• Goats and Glacier
• And so much more

If you wake up early enough, you can even do the beautiful V alley of Five Lakes hiking trail .

After driving the Icefields Parkway back to Banff National Park, make your way to Lake Louise . Please don’t just go see the lake, take a few pictures and head back. Take some time to enjoy the area.

Depending on your energy level, I recommend you do one of the following hikes :

• Lake Louise Lakefront Trail : 4.5 km (2.8 miles) out-and-back
• Lake Agnes Trail : 7.4 km (4.6 miles) out-and-back

When you’re ready, drive to downtown Banff and enjoy the evening with some shopping and dinner. The kids will also love playing at Central Park’s playground. You can walk along the Bow River as well.

Banff Town is catered to shopping and restaurants, which can be a lot of fun with kids. Banff Avenue is the main street and it’s where you’ll find most stores, restaurants and a lot of hotels. You’ll want to stop at the famous candy store for a few treats for the kids.

🛏️ Where to Stay in Banff National Park? There are many options when it comes to lodging in Banff. It will depend on the time of year you’re visiting, your budget, and the amenities you want. If you’re traveling with kids, we recommend: Banff Rocky Mountain Resort , Moose Hotel & Suites , Fairmont Banff Spring  (if you have the budget for it). If you’d like to stay closer to Lake Louise,  Baker Creek Mountain Resort . You can read our hotel review here .

Day 6: Banff National Park

Now you have a full day in Banff, why not get back into nature (what Banff is famous for)? There is so much to do in Banff that it can be really hard to choose.

Banff National Park is filled with day hikes , from easy to hard hiking trails. Most hikes are also open all year round, even in the wintertime . There are hiking trails for all levels.

Start your day early at Moraine Lake. You’ll need to book your shuttle to Moraine Lake early in the year to get a spot. When you’re at the lake, I recommend walking up on the Rockpile Trail to have an amazing view of the lake.

Then, take the scenic Bow Valley Parkway and stop at Johnston Canyon. It’s one of the most popular hikes in Banff National Park. If you can, I highly recommend hiking to the Upper Falls. It’s beautiful.

In the late afternoon, head to Cave and Bassin National Historic Site. It’s where it all started. If you can, go on a guided tour. You’ll learn so much.

You’ll want to end your late evening with a sunset picnic dinner at Vermillion Lakes. If you have paddleboards, it’s a great place to go for a paddleboarding adventure.

Pro Tip: Bring a can of bear spray with you… just in case. Bears aren’t known for being aggressive in the area, but it wouldn’t be unheard of if you saw one. We recently met with a friend who stumbled on a bear near Lake Louise within his first 5 minutes of exploring the region.

Day 7: Last Day in Banff and Drive Back from Banff to Calgary

Now you’re on the last day of our Calgary, Banff, & Jasper itinerary. To get back to Calgary, you’re looking at around 1.5 hours, depending on the road conditions. So depending on when your flight back is you may have some time to discover a few more places.

Start your last day walking around the Cascade of Time garden. It’s located at the end of Main Street after crossing the bridge over the Bow River.

We can then, go see the Bow Falls. It’s a quick walk where you’ll have a beautiful view of the Bow Falls. If you walk up the stairs along the river, you’ll also have a breathtaking view of the Fairmont Banff Spring Hotel.

Then, slowly make your way back to Calgary with a stop in Canmore for lunch. I highly recommend a lunch at Rocky Mountain Bagel Co. You can then walk around downtown Canmore and walk on the Policeman’s boardwalk.

When you’re ready, drive back to Calgary to catch your return flight.

Don’t Forget for your Calgary, Banff, Jasper Itinerary

Make sure to pack lots of layers, even in the summer. The weather in the mountains changes a lot throughout the day. Plus, you’ll want to be dressed well when walking outside near the Columbia Icefield. It can get very cold throughout the year. Remember, you’re walking on a huge piece of ice.

F.A.Q Calgary to Jasper Itinerary

How far is banff from calgary.

Banff is only 143 km from the Calgary Airport or 128 km from downtown Calgary. You can plan on a 1h30 drive if you take the Trans-Canada highway .

How to travel to Banff from Calgary?

The best way to travel to Banff from Calgary is by renting a car at the Calgary Airport (or downtown). There are many shuttle services from Calgary airport , but without your own car, it will be limiting your Calgary to Jasper road trip.

How many days in Banff?

There is so much to do and see in Banff that you cold easily spend an entire week, but if you only have 7 days for a Calgary Banff Jasper itinerary, I recommend staying in Banff for 2 to 3 days .

How many days in Calgary and Banff?

If you only have 7 days to explore the Canadian Rockies, I would recommend staying in Calgary only 1 day, then 2 to 3 days in Banff and the rest in Jasper.

How many days to spend in Calgary?

There is many things to do in Calgary that you can make it a great weekend getaway. But if you only have 7 days in the Rockies, I highly recommend spending only a day in Calgary.

Final Thoughts: Calgary to Jasper Itinerary

And that’s all for now! This has been our 7-day Calgary, Banff, & Jasper itinerary.

The 7-day Calgary, Banff, and Jasper itinerary offers a perfect blend of city exploration and natural wonders . Starting in Calgary, you can ease into their adventure with family-friendly activities like visiting the Calgary Zoo or Heritage Park . The journey then leads to Jasper via the scenic Icefields Parkway, where you’ll stop at Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and the Columbia Icefield .

Jasper itself is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with highlights including Maligne Canyon and the Jasper Planetarium . The itinerary then takes you back to Banff, with a drive along the Icefields Parkway offering opportunities to visit Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls .

In Banff, you can enjoy hikes around Moraine Lake, explore Johnston Canyon, and visit the Cave and Basin National Historic Site . The trip concludes with a return to Calgary, allowing for a final exploration of the city’s attractions.

We hope you enjoyed this post.

Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

Snap Happy Travel

Experts in family and expat travel

Best stops on the Drive from Whistler to Jasper

Last Updated on April 20, 2024 by snaphappytravel

Two of my favorite places in Canada are Whistler in BC and Jasper in Alberta. In fact, one of my favorite things I’ve ever done during my 2 years  living in Whistler  was take a road trip from Whistler all the way to Jasper. This is one stunning drive and takes in popular tourist stops like Lake Louise and Icefields Parkway as well as lesser-known stops like Bow Lake and Athabasca Falls.

The drive from Whistler to Jasper is 740 km (460 miles) on the shortest route, this route takes 8.5 hours without stops.

But I actually recommend taking the longer 963 km route on the Trans-Canada highway which takes you via Lake Louise. This route takes 11 hours and 40 minutes without stops. In this blog post I will focus on the longer route via Lake Louise as it is so pretty and there’s so much to see!

Whether you take the short or long route I advise allowing a few days to see all the stops properly.

Taking a road trip is one of the  best things to do in Whistler  and the Whistler to Jasper route is easily one of the most scenic drives in the world. We also recently completed a  road trip from Banff to Jasper  and a road trip from Whistler to Banff and I must admit both were pretty epic too!

12 Best Stops on the Drive from Whistler to Jasper via Lake Louise

There are so many great places to stop between Whistler and Jasper and some are quick stops like Sicamous and others are require more time (or even a few nights). As I mentioned, the route I will describe in this blog post is the longer driving route via Lake Louise, which is 963 km (598 miles). I recommend allowing 4 full days for this road trip, spending the night in Kamloops, Revelstoke, and Lake Louise.

Keep in mind the weather when driving this route, as conditions can get pretty snowy and icy during the Winter months, especially around Revelstoke and Glacier National Park of Canada.

1. Pemberton

Just under a 30 minute drive from Whistler is the small town of Pemberton. It’s the perfect stop for a coffee at  Mt Currie on Arbutus Street , home to the best coffee in the Whistler area. If you’re hungry you can’t go wrong with the burgers at Mile One Eating House.

If you have time, one of the best things to do in Pemberton is to hike to Joffre Lakes – this hike can take up to 5 hours to complete. I would say it’s a medium level of difficulty as there are a couple of uphill sections – a reasonable level of fitness is required for this trail. But I promise the views along the way and the glacier-fed lakes (Gatorade blue in color) are well worth the long hike.

In Summer or on warmer days you can go swimming in any of the 3 lakes but be warned they are very cold – an average water temperature of 45 Fahrenheit (7 Celsius)!! The Joffre Lakes hike is super-popular, and the car parks fill up early, so get here early to secure a spot.

2. Kamloops

The city of Kamloops is a great place to spend the first night of your road trip from Whistler to Jasper. There’s awesome restaurants, craft breweries and wineries a-plenty.  Forno on 5th  has a Mediterranean inspired menu and is a lovely modern restaurant in downtown Kamloops. Whilst,  Bright Eye Brewing  and  Monte Creek Ranch Winery  are also worth a visit if you love beer and/or wine.

Pay a visit to Riverside Park for a walk in the evening there’s a sandy river beach, various walking trails and live music events some weekend evenings. If you’re travelling with kids a great place to take them is to the BC Wildlife Park. This is a zoo which homes native animals like grizzly bears and arctic wolves.

If you’re driving from Vancouver to Kamloops you may be interested in this  GPS-guided audio tour  that is sure to turn this scenic drive into into a sightseeing and trivia game adventure!

Fun fact –  Jurassic World 3 and Twilight Zone were both recently filmed in the Kamloops area.

Where to stay in Kamloops:

There are two hotels I highly recommend in Kamloops -The first one is where we stayed when we did this road trip – Best Western Plus a 3-star hotel with an indoor pool and hot tub and comfortable rooms which come with a flat screen TV and, microwave. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. Rooms here start from about $200 CAD per night.

Our second recommendation is the luxurious Delta Hotel by Marriott , which has an outdoor pool and airconditioned, spacious rooms. There’s also a gym, terrace area with lovely views and a 24-hour reception. A room here averages around $260 CAD per night.

3. Sicamous

The Sicamous area has over 1,000 km of coastline, so it’s no surprise that some of the best things to do here are water-related. Swim in the warm waters of Sicamous Beach Park or try kayaking, canoeing, or SUP paddle boarding, all popular activities here.

Treat yourself to homemade ice cream and artisan cheese at  D Dutchman Dairy. T his bright red building can’t be missed from the road and is very photogenic. We also loved  Blondies Cafe  for great coffee and yummy smoothie bowls.

Did you know –  Sicamous is known as the houseboat capital of Canada!

Where to stay in Sicamous:

Spend your first or second night of the road trip in Sicamous, I loved the  Pines Motel,  which is very reasonably priced. It’s a 3-star property which is decorated in a cabin-esque style and the rooms are cozy and come with air-con and a flat screen TV. There’s also a BBQ area and free private parking. A room here costs from $120 CAD per night.

4. Revelstoke mountain and town

‘Small town charm, big mountain adventure” is the motto here in Revelstoke. In the town there’s lots to do, think small museums, a brewery tour, an escape room and even axe-throwing.

Revelstoke Mountain is the mecca of alpine mountain biking and offers incredible lift-accessed biking. If you’re visiting in Winter – the mountain has 65 ski runs. Whilst, in the Summer you can enjoy the Pipe Mountain Coaster, the Aerial Adventure Park and of course the mountain biking as mentioned above. No matter the season, there’s a full day of activities at the Resort.

Another unique activity near Revelstoke town is the   Enchanted Forest   – the fairytale themed buildings are great for kids. It’s also home to BC’s tallest treehouse.

Where to stay in Revelstoke:

I advise spending the night in Revelstoke to break up your journey from Whistler to Banff nicely. I loved the Mount Revelstoke Alpine Chalets ! Each chalet comes with a balcony (overlooking the mountains), a fully equipped kitchenette and a seating area with a TV. Expect to pay around $119 CAD per night here.

5. Glacier National Park of Canada

Glacier National Park is an adventure junkies heaven. Climb up mountain peaks, camp next to a glacier-fed river, go hiking amongst the stunning scenery, and take a mountain bike ride on one of the trails. One of my favorite hikes in the park is the 7.2 km trail that takes you along the abandoned railway tracks of Canada’s first trans-continental railway.

You can even explore what’s left behind of the Glacier House hotel – Western Canada’s first luxury mountain resort. A series of avalanches starting in the year 1910 caused the railway line which passed the hotel to be moved, thus taking away their tourist traffic and so it eventually closed and was left to go to ruin!

Did you know –  the Glacier National Park is home to the world’s only inland cedar rainforest.

6. Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is located in Yoho National Park, and it’s one of the most popular and photographed in the area. It’s the largest lake in the park and is surrounded by the President mountain range.

Located just a few kilometres off of the TransCanada highway. Emerald Lake gets its name because it looks emerald green on a sunny day it gets its unique color from the glacial waters which refract light.

The hike around the lake, clocking in at about an hour, is a great way to see the lake as well as the world-famous Burgess Shale fossil beds, the Michael glacier, and an avalanche slope carpeted by meadows where moose often graze. Other than moose you are likely to see bald eagles, ospreys and waterfowl around the lakes edge.

Canoe and rowboat rentals are available to rent here, as are cross-country skis and snowshoes in the winter. Fishing at Emerald Lake is also quite popular during the summer months.

7. Lake Louise

Lake Louise is world famous for its gatorade-blue waters and it attracts millions of visitors every year. The Victoria Glacier, the luxurious Fairmont Lake Louise hotel, and the incredible hiking trail and skiing on offer all add to its appeal.

Rent a canoe from the boat dock and see the lake from a different perspective. Worth noting is that Lake Louise is frozen over half the year, so, ice skating is a popular activity during the winter. You can also enjoy sleigh rides, ice climbing, skiing, and snowshoeing during these colder months.

Pop into   Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise  for lunch or spend the night here if you want to feel really fancy. Many of the rooms at this bucket-list-worthy property boast lake views. Just imagine waking up to that view in the morning!

In Lake Louise, you can book onto a  full-day hiking tour through the Canadian Rockies  taking in sights such as Victoria Glacier, hanging valleys and of course some epic viewpoints of Lake Louise itself.

8. Bow Lake

Bow Lake  is approximately 30 minutes north of Lake Louise, off the Icefields Parkway (Hwy 93) The lake sits at an elevation of 1,920 meters and spends most of the year locked away in ice. This makes it a popular spot for winter activities like snowshoeing and ski touring. During the summer, many tourists rent a canoe and take it out on the lake.

The Bow Lakeshore trail is a great family-friendly hike. If you’re looking to stretch your legs and enjoy the sublime nature along the shoreline, it’s the perfect stop and one of the easiest hikes in Banff. The trail is a nice mellow grade and gains no elevation. It does move over some large sections of roots, so a stroller would not work on the lakeshore trail.

9. Peyto Lake

Peyto Lake is famous for its turquoise blue glacier-fed waters. The brilliant display of blue is fed by the Peyto Glacier high above the lake and part of the Wapta Icefield.

It is located 50 km north of Lake Louise and is a popular stop on the drive from Whistler to Banff.

The viewpoint is one of the most spectacular in all of Banff National Park and a super popular spot for photographers. In my opinion, it’s as pretty as nearby Moraine Lake but without the crowds. The trail to the viewpoint starts at the far end of the car park. The hike up to Peyto Lake Lookout is short and sweet and takes around 10-15 minutes uphill.

10. Columbia Icefields

The Columbia Icefields is one of the most unique stops on the drive from Banff to Jasper, and it’s the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies. You can join a walking tour that takes you right onto the Athabasca glacier! We chose to just visit the   Icefield Skywalk  as we were short on time. It’s a glass-floored lookout, which was a little scary, but it’s well worth it as, along the way, you learn about the story of the Icefields. You will also be treated to an epic view of the Sunwapta Valley.

If you’re hungry you can grab a bite to eat here – there’s a casual restaurants and a fancier option. Just time it right as they can both get very busy with tour groups.

IMPORTANT INFO –  To drive through the Icefields Parkway you need to purchase a daily pass which costs $10.50 per adult or $20 for a family of up to 7 people travelling in one vehicle. These daily passes expire at 4 pm the next day. To purchase your pass there are pass kiosks located at each end of the Icefields Parkway near Lake Louise and Jasper. They can also be purchased online at  Banff/Lake Louise Tourism .

11. Sunwapta Falls

Fed by the Athabasca Glacier, the Sunwapta Falls is a stunning place to stop. The falls are 18 meters tall. This site is good for a quick stop – the upper falls can be viewed from the car park if you’re short on time. You can go white-water rafting (imagine!), and there are many awesome hiking trails, two of the most popular being the hikes to the Lower and Upper Falls.

12. Athabasca Falls

The lovely Athabasca Waterfall stems from the Athabasca River and is 23-meters tall. There are a number of lookout points where you can see the power of the falls. The falls itself are not very high compared to others in the Canadian Rockies, but the size of the river makes these falls one of the most powerful in the country!

Jasper is one of my favorite towns in Canada, when I visited I could really imagine myself living there. Not only is it incredibly scenic, it’s the right mix of small town charm with lots of activities and great restaurants. Some of my favorite restaurants/Cafes in Jasper include  Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria ;  Sunhouse Cafe  and  Evil Dave’s Grill .

Jasper National Park requires a pass to enter, it  costs $10.50 per adult and can be purchased from Parks Canada .

Jasper is home to the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve in the world. The annual  Jasper Dark Sky Festival  is held in October every year – it draws thousands of visitors and has had guest speakers from NASA as well as Hollywood celebrities in the past. Jasper has over 1,200 km of hiking trails, and some of the best in the area include Pyramid Lake and Maligne Canyon.

Another great thing to do in Jasper is to hop on the   Jasper SkyTram  – Canada’s highest and longest, guided aerial tramway up to the top of the 2,263-meter summit. Grab some food at the restaurant at the top, and enjoy views of Mount Robson (in the next state, B.C.). If you’re visiting Jasper in the Summer and you’re feeling adventurous then you must book onto the  two hour white water rafting tour on the Athabasca River . This is grade 2 rafting so expect to get wet!

Where to Stay in Jasper

• Fairmont Jasper Park  is a collection of luxurious log cabins located on the emerald-green Lac Beauvert. This is the ultimate bucket-list-worthy hotel in Jasper!
• Chateau Jasper  is a cozy hotel surrounded by the mountains of Jasper National Park and a 10 minute walk from the center of town.
• Jasper Inn and Suites  just off Highway is a cozy inn-style property with a pool and a sauna.
• Bear Hill Lodge   relaxed cabin-style accommodation (with fireplaces) surrounded by woodland.

Thanks for reading my blog!

It’s easy to see why a road trip from Whistler to Jasper is one of the best and most popular things to do in Canada. I mean, not only are there lots of amazing activities to enjoy but there are scenic mountain views, gatorade-blue lakes and the chance to spot unique wildlife.

Thanks so much for reading. I hope this guide has helped you plan the perfect road trip between Banff and Jasper! If you found this blog helpful, be sure to browse around some more! I have guides on  Canadian road trip tips ,  luxury vacation to Whistler  as well as  doing a ski season in Whistler   and so much more!!

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Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary: 3 Epic Routes

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Dreaming of an epic Canadian Rockies road trip? You will LOVE this post. We are sharing a detailed Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary for 7 to 14 days. This drive covers 3 national parks, 2-4 cities, and many small towns in British Columbia and Alberta.

We have been exploring the Rockies for a decade now, and have visited in different seasons. You will get a glimpse of how the landscape looks throughout the year, with useful travel tips to help plan your trip! (You will also see me grow over the past 10 years through this post – haha!)

So let’s get started!

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary: Distance, national park fees, driving conditions

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Vancouver to Banff National Park distance is 847 km or 526.3 miles, one way. If you drive non-stop, it takes about 9.50 to 10 hours to complete. 

There are quite a few national and provincial parks along the way, with beautiful small towns, waterfalls, trails, and pristine lakes that you can explore. 

Vancouver is located in the Canadian province of British Columbia, and Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper National Parks are in Alberta.

An ideal road trip to cover all the national parks in this part of the Rockies should be for 10 days. 14 days is better for returning the vehicle (car rental) to Calgary and flying from Alberta. Or if you are a BC resident, you can set aside one day to drive back.

Kamloops is sort of like the midpoint of this itinerary – whichever way you are starting in Calgary/Banff, Edmonton/Jasper, or from Vancouver/Whistler. 

We live in Edmonton and have embarked on a lot of road trips with various permutations and combinations, and we will share the BEST route possible to maximize your time at the Canadian Rockies!

Vancouver to Banff Drive in a nutshell

Vancouver to Banff Road Trip Itinerary 14 days 

• Day 1-2 : Vancouver (2 nights)
• Day 3 : Squamish
• Day 4 : Whistler
• Day 5 : Kamloops (1 night)
• Day 6-7 : Jasper National Park (2 nights)
• Day 8 : Jasper National Park to Lake Louise via Icefields Parkway
• Day 9 : Lake Louise (1-2 nights)
• Day 10 : Lake Louise to Yoho National Park day trip, return to Lake Louise or Banff
• Day 11-13 : Banff National Park (2- 3 nights)
• Day 14 : Calgary, car drop off and fly

Alternate 14 day Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip itinerary

• Day 1 – 2 : Arrive in Vancouver, explore for the next 2 days
• Day 3: Day tour of Squamish
• Day 4 – 5 : Explore Whistler (2 nights)
• Day 6 : Spend a day in Kamloops (1 night)
• Day 7 : Visit Revelstoke from Kamloops (2.50 hours drive). Explore Revelstoke, especially ski jumping in the winter at the Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Stay overnight
• Day 8 : Drive to Glacier National Park in British Columbia (day trip). Explore. Stay overnight in Golden (45 minutes from the national park)
• Day 9: Drive from Golden BC to Yoho National Park BC. In the evening, head to Lake Louise, and stay overnight
• Day 10 : Explore Lake Louise
• Day 11-13: Head to Banff National Park. Spend 3 days. 
• Day 14: Calgary, car drop off and fly

Vancouver to Banff Drive 7 day itinerary

• Day 1 : Arrive in Vancouver, explore or head to Whistler 
• Day 2 : Whistler 
• Day 3 : Kamloops
• Day 4 : Lake Louise (you can also do a half-day in Yoho National Park, and another half in Lake Louise as well)
• Day 5-6 : Banff National Park
• Day 7 : Calgary, car drop off and fly

A shortened version of this road trip itinerary can be done by skipping Jasper National Park, and Squamish, and focusing on the goodies at the Canadian Rockies cradle – Banff and Lake Louise. 

Note that Yoho, Banff, and Jasper parks are all National Parks of Canada, and you must pay entry fees to enter and stay overnight. Here is the fees chart,

• Adult – Person 18 to 64 years of age – $10 CAD per day or 24 hours*
• Family/Car – $20 CAD – per day or 24 hours
• Senior – $8.30
• Youth (up to 17 years) – Free
• Commercial group (per person) – $8.30

The daily or 24-hour pass means that you pay $10 CAD per adult for one day inside the National Park. If you are a frequent visitor to National Parks in Canada, get The Discovery Pass .

This pass is valid for one full year from the date of purchase and it allows you to access over 80 historical, and nature parks in Canada for a set price of $69+ CAD (for adults).

Read : Planning a trip to Banff & Canadian Rockies Travel Tips

Tips for preparing for the Road Trip

• Summer – Summer is a great time to embark on this road trip. This is the time when you can see the pristine turquoise blue waters of the lakes, go hiking, camping, etc. This is also the peak season in the national parks, so expect accommodation to be expensive, and towns and trails to be crowded. We recommend starting early to beat the traffic rush when you start from Vancouver or Calgary. If camping, remember to book campsites ahead of time.
• Spring and fall – Spring and fall are our favorite times to explore the national parks. It is off-season in Canada, so finding accommodation is a breeze. Spring can be a little tricky for visiting Parks, as many of the sightseeing spots may not be open. The sweet spot is the late spring, and early fall weeks, when the majority of the attractions will be open. Trans Canada highway and sister driving routes are always open, all year round. 
• Winter – Winter is a wonderful time to visit the Rockies, but driving in winter can be tricky. Winter is not a peak season, some of the destinations (that are popular winter vacation spots in Canada ) can be filled up really quickly by international visitors. 
• Wondering when is the best time to visit Banff National Park? Read this guide

Driving in Canada in winter can be challenging due to slippery road surfaces, unpaved lanes, and blowing snow. Sometimes road accidents and avalanches may also add extra time to your itinerary. 

If you are planning to do this Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary in winter, then follow these tips, 

• Winter tires – Ensure your vehicle or rental car has tires on (not all-seasonal ones)
• Fluid – Don’t forget car fluid (buy something up to – 15 degrees Celsius or lower)!
• Slow down – While driving in the winter, drive slowly and maintain a good distance. 
• Packing for a road trip  – Keep warm clothing in your car to stay warm, including some snacks. Tips on what to pack for Canada in winter
• Check local news before you start – Check the weather and local news to ensure it is safe to embark on this trip, and that the route/road is clear. This will also help you to determine if additional travel time is required

For all road trips, remember

• You must carry a valid driver’s license (Canadian, US, or International)
• You can rent a vehicle in all major international airports, in this case, Vancouver 
• You must be at least 21 years of age to rent a vehicle.
• Canada uses kilometers and meters to measure distance, and wherever wildlife crossings exist, the signs will show up
• Oh, and don’t forget to fuel up with Tim Hortons Coffee and doughnut – that’s a MUST – you are on a road trip, eh!

Day 1: Arrive and explore Vancouver Downtown, Stanley Park, Granville Island, Gastown

Vancouver is served by the Vancouver International Airport, which is located in Richmond, British Columbia, about 12 km (7.4 miles) away from Downtown. 

If arriving via aircraft from the eastern part of Canada, or the USA (or Seattle), you will arrive at this airport. Car rentals are available from the YVR/Vancouver airport. We book our rental cars via Expedia.

You can also reserve it online, and then pick it up from one of the rental agencies like Alamo, Budget, Avis, and Enterprise to name a few. We like using Avis and Enterprise Rent-A-Car for mileage offerings, and vehicle variety. 

Alternatively, if you are planning to explore Vancouver via day tours, you can skip the car rental in the first few days, and then pick it up when ready to start the road trip to Banff Alberta. 

Exploring Vancouver without a car: 

Vancouver’s rapid transit rail connects YVR airport to downtown Vancouver in under 30 minutes. You can access trains from both the International and Domestic Terminals. Fare starts at $4.25 CAD, plus the $5.00 CAD Canada Line. 

Where to stay in Vancouver? We recommend staying in the downtown area. From downtown, you can walk to various sightseeing attractions, and take a free shuttle to North Vancouver, or guided tours. 

Our pick: GEC Granville Suites are located in the downtown neighborhood. The rooms were decent and clean. You can check out the hotel and book here

If you prefer a luxury hotel, we recommend the Fairmont Vancouver Waterfront Hotel. This hotel is pet-friendly and offers amazing views of the city, waterfront, and mountains. Book your stay here

Note : After 2 days in Vancouver sightseeing, pick up a car rental, and start the drive towards Alberta. You can skip to Day 3 if you do not wish to explore Vancouver in this itinerary. 

After arriving in downtown Vancouver, embark on a walking tour of the city center. Head to the waterfront area to visit Canada Place. 

The sails of Canada Place are iconic to the city of Vancouver, and the downtown area. It is home to the Vancouver Convention Center, the Pan Pacific Vancouver Hotel, Vancouver’s World Trade Center, and FlyOver Canada. 

Canada Place is a nice place to hang out, stop for a coffee, soak in the water views, and relax in the wonderful city. FlyOver Canada is a popular attraction in Canada Place. 

FlyOver Canada uses state-of-the-art technology to give you the feeling of flight. You can ‘fly’ or hang over Niagara Falls, and various other cool places in Canada! 

Many Vancouver sightseeing tours start at Canada Place (for tourists’ pick-ups and drop-offs). 

To make the most of your trip to Vancouver, you can join a Hop-on and Hop-off sightseeing tour to check off all the city attractions from Stanley Park, Granville Island, Chinatown, and more. Book Vancouver hop on and off tour here

Stanley Park is a popular attraction and an urban park in Vancouver. The park is beautiful with a lot of green spaces, views of Vancouver Harbor and the English Bay, and various artifacts (from statues to totem poles). Do check out statues at the Park, like that of Henry Jerome or, the Girl in a Wetsuit (my favorite).

If you have time on your hands, we recommend walking the Vancouver Seawall (10 km or 6.2 miles loop). Walking the seawall will take about 2-3 hours, and biking takes about an hour. 

While driving (or on the sightseeing bus), you will see a green bridge, known as the Lion Gate Bridge . This bridge connects the city of Vancouver to north and west Vancouver.

The best place to check out and photograph the bridge (when not driving) is to head to Prospect Point. Prospect Point is important as it allows you to get an uninterrupted view of the city of Vancouver. The drive to the Point goes through a woody/forested area.

The Prospect Point falls on the northernmost tip of Stanley Park – also a wonderful spot to spend summers. 

Another must add attraction to your 2 day Vancouver itinerary is to visit Granville Island. Granville Island is a peninsula and shopping district, located across False Creek from Downtown Vancouver.

It is nice to spend an afternoon here, looking at the shops or eating Fish and Chips. There is also a large Granville Island public market that sells fresh local produce, seafood, baked goods, and gourmet food. Book a 2 hour walking tour of Granville Tour here

Chinatown is another spot to visit during your trip. We enjoyed our time at the Sun yat Sen Gardens located in Chinatown. 

The gardens provide a very tranquil atmosphere, with greenery and symbols of Chinese heritage. The gardens were inspired and modeled after the private gardens in Suzhou, China.

After exploring the Sun yat Sen gardens, you can stop for an early dinner or meal in Chinatown.

To finish sightseeing on day one, we recommend heading to Gastown for drinks. Gastown neighborhood is filled with pretty Victorian homes and is sprinkled with restaurants, bars, and cafes. 

Do take time to check out the 40-year-old clock, called the Gastown Steam Clock. Steam comes out of the clock till today, and it looks so pretty with the buildings in the backdrop. 

Day 2: Sightseeing: North Vancouver, Robson Street & Vancouver Art Gallery

For day 2 in Vancouver, we planned to visit the beautiful Capilano Suspension Bridge . It is located in North Vancouver, and you can take a free shuttle (or drive if you have access to car rental) from Canada Place.

There are free shuttles available from Canada Place to take you to Capilano Suspension Bridge and they operate every 30 minutes. Take a look at their website here.

Set aside 2-4 hours to explore the Park, cross the Suspension Bridge, and have fun at the Cliff Walk or TreeTops Adventure. You can also stop for lunch at a cafe inside the park. 

The Capilano Suspension bridge was built in the late 1800s by a Scottish civil engineer named George Grant Mackay. You can learn about the bridge’s early history from a guide when you reach the park entrance. The current bridge is 140 metres long and 70 metres above the river.

There is an entry fee at Capilano Suspension Bridge. For adults, the fee starts at $54.95 CAD, to get access to the bridge, totem poles, guide walk, cliff walk, etc. More details about fees can be found here

Also, located in North Vancouver is the Lynn Canyon Suspension Bridge . Lynn Canyon Park is completely free, and it also has a ton of hiking trails that you can enjoy!

In the late afternoon, head back to the heart of the city to explore Robson Street . Robson Street is a popular place for shoppers. This street is very far-stretched, as it starts at the BC Place Stadium and runs past the Vancouver Library square and goes up to the Lost Lagoon, in Stanley Park.

You can go shopping, or visit the Vancouver Art Gallery . It is easy to get lost in this street and spend the entire evening here at a nice restaurant or pub.

Day 3: Drive to Whistler with a stop in Squamish

Squamish is a town located further north of Vancouver. The views from the Sea to Sky Gondola with waterfalls and mountains make this drive to the town all worth it.

You can explore Squamish on a day trip, and then drive to Whistler, where you can spend the night (to check out the highlights the following day).

• Vancouver to Squamish takes 1 hour. Distance is about 64.1 km (39.8 miles) via BC-99 N
• Squamish to Whistler takes 45 minutes. Distance is about 58.8 km (36.5 miles) via Sea-to-Sky Highway/BC-99 S
• Vancouver to Whistler takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. Distance is about 121 km (74.5 miles) via BC-99 N

Squamish is at the northern tip of the island-dotted Howe Sound and surrounded by Stawamus Chief Mountain views . We recommend adding 2-3 attractions for a one day itinerary in Squamish. 

If you wish to go on a short hike, stop at the Shannon Falls Provincial Park first before arriving in the town. Shannon Falls is home to the third largest waterfalls in British Columbia. 

Highly recommend the Sea to Sky Gondola . It has all the epic views and showcases the stunning Shannon Falls from up there, as it cascades down a series of cliffs. Entry to the sightseeing gondola is $53.95 CAD for adults ( when purchased online ). 

The Britannia Mine Museum is another must visit stop on this route to Whistler.  The museum preserves the history and showcases artifacts related to British Columbia’s mining industry. In order to explore it all, you will need about 1.5 to 2 hours. 

The entry fee at the Britannia Mine Museum is $30 CAD, and includes a 45 minute tour. 

After all the sightseeing, take a stroll in the downtown Squamish area , and stop for lunch, before continuing the trip to Whistler.

The drive from Squamish to Whistler will take you about 45 minutes. You can plan to arrive by evening so that you can settle in, check in to your hotel, and head out for dinner in Whistler downtown.

Where to stay in Whistler?   Hilton Resort & Spa. The Hilton Whistler Resort and Spa is located in the heart of Whistler Village. You can book rooms with mountain or pool views. The resort is just steps away from Whistler & Blackcomb Mountain. Private paid parking is available. 

Another alternative is Tantalus Resort Lodge , which is a 3 star property for your stay. There is a pool, and free parking is offered here. 

Read : 2 day Whistler itinerary

Day 4: Explore Whistler Village

Wake up to a wonderful breakfast and views in Whistler Village . The downtown area of Whistler is nothing short of an alpine village. Here you can shop for goodies, or hang out in a cafe.

After breakfast, head to the Whistler Blackcomb . Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America and also has the greatest uphill lift capacity. 

You can use a jeep tour too, if interested (especially in the winter!). And don’t forget to hop on the Peak 2 Peak Gondola for moving between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains at the top. 

During winters, the resort abounds in skiing activities. You can also opt for ski lessons here. Ski season starts in November here, and Blackcomb is also known for spring skiing. In April, Whistler hosts the World Ski & Snowboard Festival in the mountains!

It is important to note that regardless of when you visit, at Whistler Blackcomb you can see snow and ice even in the summer months. We do recommend bringing in a warm jacket , and comfortable boots to enjoy the mountains. And don’t forget your sunscreen and sunglasses!

In the summer months, after visiting the Blackcomb, head to the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre . This is a great place to learn about Indigenous cultures – of Squamish & Lil’wat Nations. You can also join a unique tour, ‘What We Treasure tour’, to learn more about the cultures. The entry fee is $20 CAD for adults. 

Finally, in the evening head to the Scandinave Spa (they close at 09:00 pm). Enjoy one of their spa and relaxation packages!

Day 5: Drive to Kamloops British Columbia

Kamloops is another city in the province of British Columbia. When we drive from Alberta, or back, Kamloops or Revelstoke is a good option for a stop. Drive from Whistler to Kamloops takes a little over 4 hours. 

• Whistler to Kamloops takes 4 hours 14 minutes . Distance is 299.4 km (185 miles) via BC-99 N or
• It is longer via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 E and BC-5 N – about 5 hours 37 minutes. Distance via this route is 473.5 km (293 miles)

We recommend starting early from Whistler so that you can stop for lunch, and break the drive. This way you will be in Kamloops in the afternoon, check-in, and then explore a bit in the evening. 

For lunch, you can stop in a small town, named Lillooet . Depending on your interests, you can check out a few things here (or continue the drive to Kamloops): 

• Lillooet Museum and Visitor Centre
• Old Suspension Bridge
• There is a winery, called the Fort Berens Winery, which is a nice stop. Travelers love to lunch here and go wine tasting! Probably a good idea if you are staying here overnight. 

You could also visit Nairn Falls Provincial Park near Pemberton.

In Kamloops, you can check out a few of the attractions, depending on your arrival time, 

• Secwepemc Museum & Heritage Park: The museum showcases the cultural and traditional lives of the Secwepemc People.
• Kamloops Museum & Archives: Another museum to stop by, in downtown Kamloops
• Kamloops is home to Sun Peaks Resort. It is a lovely ski area, where you go skiing in the winter, and biking or hiking in the summer
• Where to eat in Kamloops? Brownstone Restaurant (Canadian) | Mittz Kitchen | Maurya’s Restaurant Bar & Banquet (Indian)

Where to stay in Kamloops?  We booked a stay at the Holiday Inn Express Kamloops . It is a 3 star property with free breakfast, and a pool on-site. Free parking is also provided. 

Kamloops doesn’t have a lot to explore. So we usually start late to the city of Kamloops (spending more time in Whistler or Jasper, whichever direction we are driving) and arrive just in time to check-in, eat dinner and sleep!

An alternate option is to drive one hour north of Kamloops to Clearwater . In doing so, you can visit Wells Grey Provincial Park. 

Clearwater is a little over 3 and a half hours’ drive from Jasper, so it is closer to Jasper than Kamloops (saving an hour the next day). Find hotels in Clearwater British Columbia .

Day 6: Drive to Jasper from Kamloops or Clearwater British Columbia

On day 6 start for Jasper National Park. Jasper National Park is the largest park in the Canadian Rockies. (And we are lucky to be living only 4 hours away from both Jasper and Banff town! Yay! Here is an Edmonton to Jasper Road trip itinerary )

So driving from BC here is the distance and duration,

• Kamloops to Jasper is 4 hours 50 minutes. Distance is 440.7 km (273 miles) via BC-5 N
• Clearwater to Jasper is 3 hours and 20 minutes . Distance is 317.5 km (197 miles) via BC-5 N

As Jasper is a national park, you have to pay park fees at the west entrance gate. 

Upon entering the park gates, soak in those views of the Canadian Rockies, and head to Jasper town for brunch (or coffee and cake). 

From Jasper townsite, head to explore the following attractions,

Start at the Patricia and Pyramid Lakes . Both lakes are located only about a 10 minute drive away. From downtown Jasper, take Hwy 16A (Connaught Road) north, turn left on Pyramid Lake Road, and follow it to the lake. 

You can access both lakes all year round. In the summer, you can go kayaking/boating and enjoy hikes and strolls around the lakeside.

In the winter, you can go snowshoeing on Patricia and Pyramid Lakes. We loved our time at Pyramid Island which is located a short drive/walk (about 1.5 km or 1 mile) from the Pyramid Lake Resort. 

Parking is located on the left side of the road and is limited. So if visiting in the summer plan to visit early. In the winter months, we were able to score parking at noon (with no one to be seen in the area). 

After the lakes, make your way to Athabasca Falls. Accessible all year round, Athabasca Falls is a waterfall located about 40 minutes from Pyramid Lake.

If visiting in the winter, ensure you are wearing cleats or solid winter boots as the boardwalk and steps could be slippery. 

If you fancy an ice walk in the winter, visit the Maligne Canyon. It is located about 20 minutes from Pyramid Lake, and it looks amazing in the winter with the ice formations. You can also go on this walk on your own. Ensure you are wearing cleats as the ground could be very slippery.  

Where to stay in Jasper?  

• Marmot Lodge : Located in Jasper town, Marmot Lodge is a good accommodation option inside the national park, and close to restaurants and attractions. Book a stay at Marmot Lodge
• Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge: Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a nice and luxurious option, with a spa, planetarium, and 2 stunning restaurants on-site.  Book a stay here
• Pocahontas Cabins: We enjoy staying in cabins in the winter. And on one snowy December, we stayed at the Pocahontas Cabins (located close to the east gate entrance). Pocahontas is a 2 star accommodation with free parking, a kitchen, a bedroom, and a living room in each cabin. Note that Pocahontas Cabins are located 40 minutes away from Jasper townsite. Book a stay at Pocahontas Cabins

Day 7: Explore more of Jasper National Park, Alberta

On day 7 explore more of Jasper National Park. Regardless of where you stay in Jasper, you must head to the downtown area for a nice breakfast at a local cafe. We personally love the Bear’s Paw Bakery!

Your second day in Jasper is all about short hikes, and nature/old fort walks near downtown. Whistler’s Peak Trail is a popular spot for hikes. Maligne Canyon is also a great spot for hiking and outdoor activities.

Old Fort Point Summit is located close to the downtown area, and it offers amazing views of Jasper town!

If you are not into hikes, visit the Jasper SkyTram (summer), which is a sightseeing gondola. Jasper SkyTram is only open from late March to early October, and it welcomes you to Whistlers Mountain views. When the gondola rides are open, you can also visit the restaurant/bistro up there!

In the summer months, you can also visit the Miette Hot Springs . They are located near the Pocahontas Cabins. (Note that it is closed in the winter.) The pool is located outdoors and it offers amazing views of the surrounding Fiddle River Valley. 

For those visiting in winter, or early spring visit Jasper’s Marmot Ski Basin for skiing (from November to April). Jasper Town to Marmot Ski Basin is about 20 minute drive away. You can also hop on a shuttle bus (from the downtown area near Tim Hortons) to reach the ski area.

Marmot Basin has about 90 runs on four mountain faces with 3,000 vertical feet of drop. There are options for ski lessons, and ski gear rentals onsite.

The area has a lift capacity of close to 12,000 skiers per hour on seven lifts. You will also love the amazing restaurant up there (if not skiing)!

After all the sightseeing, finish the night at the Jasper Brewing Co . in downtown Jasper. We love their beer samplers – they are amazing! Try them next time you are in town!

Read: 3 days in Jasper itinerary

Day 8: Drive to Lake Louise from Jasper via Icefields Parkway

We are halfway through the Vancouver to Banff road trip itinerary, and it’s now time to head to Banff from Jasper via the Icefields Parkway . 

The Icefields Parkway stretches for about 233 km (144.7 miles) from Jasper to Lake Lousie (and vice versa). This is one of the most scenic drives that you can take in the Canadian Rockies. 

If you drive non-stop, it will take about 3 hours to arrive in Lake Louise . The entire route is done via Highway AB-93S.

It is important to note that the Icefields Parkway road is open all year round. However, not all attractions will be open in the winter. 

We do recommend stopping at a few sights before arriving at Lake Louise in the evening (overnight stay in Lake Louise). 

Your first stop along the Icefields Parkway is the stunning Sunwapta Falls (45 minutes from Jasper town). The route is accessible all year, we suggest checking seasonal road conditions in the winter, before heading to the access area for the Falls.

We loved exploring the Sunwapta Falls in the winter. It was not crowded, and we loved the white snow dust on the landscape and waters. It was just so beautiful. 

Next, visit the Glacier Skywalk and Columbia Icefields . Columbia Icefields are home to the largest non-polar ice fields in the world. To embark on glacier tours, you have to head there in the summer, particularly from May to October.

If you are pressed for time, you can visit the Glacier Discovery Centre, and admire the views from a distance. 

Columbia Icefield Adventure tour is weather dependent, and includes an Ice Explorer Tour on the Athabasca Glacier, plus admission to the Skywalk, and return transportation from the Glacier Discovery Centre.

Lastly, before settling into Lake Louise, stop by Peyto Lake. It is a stunning glacial-fed lake located an hour from the Columbia Icefields. If you are up for a hike, lace up for an easy 6.11 km or 3.8 mile round trip hike. This spot welcomes you to one of the best views in the Canadian Rockies. 

From Peyto Lake, drive for another 30 minutes to arrive at Lake Louise. 

Where to stay in Lake Louise? Stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise . Or at any of the mid-budget accommodations like Lake Louise Inn .

You can find more hotels here for Lake Louise . 

Day 9: Explore Lake Louise

On day 9, spend a full day in and around Lake Louise. Go on hikes, or canoeing in the summer. You can rent canoes at the lakeside. 

Hiking the Agnes Tea House trail will welcome you to amazing views, and a historic tea house. If not into hiking, you can enjoy a romantic stroll by the lake and the Fairmont Hotel property!

If visiting in the winter, you can go skiing at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, and ice skating at the frozen lake. In the late winter months, there are ice festivals that you can enjoy too. 

There is a small town centre area inside of the hamlet of Lake Louise, this is where you can grab food, and buy essentials. You can also walk/hike from the lake to the centre.

We had the yummiest of Chicken curries and candies here, at the Laggan’s Mountain Bakery & Delicatessen (101 Village Road, Lake Louise).

Day 10: Take a day trip to Yoho National Park from Lake Louise

From Lake Louise explore the Yoho National Park, on a day trip. This national park is one of the parks in the Canadian Rockies (others being Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Waterton National Park).

Lake Louise to Yoho National Park is only 15 minutes away (one way). Park entry fees are the same ($20 CAD per vehicle entry for 24 hours). 

Yoho National Park is located in British Columbia and is bordered by Kootenay National Park (south side), and Banff National Park (east side). The visitor office for the park is located in the town of Field, by the Trans Canada Highway. 

En route from Lake Lousie, your first stop is at the Natural Bridge . This attraction is a wonderful phenomenon of natural rock formation, that looks like a bridge, wherein the Kicking Horse River flows from the Field Valley. 

There is a free car parking area right outside the lookout/viewing platform. You can access the scenic lookout without any strenuous hikes. 

Up next on the road trip are the Spiral Tunnels. These tunnels were created when British Columbia joined the Canadian Confederation and a railway network was constructed. Every day, 25 to 30 trains pass through the Spiral Tunnels making it super picturesque. 

If you are patient, we recommend getting down at the lower Spiral Tunnels and waiting for the trains to pass by (if not just read through the informative displays in the area).

One of the must visit attractions at the Yoho National Park (after the Emerald Lake) is Takakkaw Falls. You can easily access Takakkaw Falls via Trans-Canada Highway and on the Yoho Valley Road. 

The scenic drive to the Falls takes about 30 minutes. The roads leading to the falls are steep and narrow, so exercise caution as you drive. Maneuvering larger vehicles might be challenging in these lanes.

A short trail takes to the full view of Takakkaw Falls from the parking lot. Spend some time here before making your way to the townsite of Field for lunch.

Our favorite place for lunch: Truffle Pigs Bistro. 

After lunch, proceed to the Upper Spiral Tunnel Viewpoint in Cathedral Mountain . From here you can also view the meeting point of the Kicking Horse River and the Yoho River. 

Last but not the least, visit the beautiful Emerald Lake . This lake is enclosed by mountains—President Range, Mount Burgess, and Wapta, and oozes a lovely ‘emerald color’ (in the summertime). 

The lake is accessible all year round. In the winter, it is prone to heavy snowfall, making it a paradise for cross country skiing. Rain is frequent in the summer. June and July are the perfect months to capture images of wild flora and fauna.

During the summer months, you can rent a canoe, take walks or visit the Emerald Lake Lodge. In addition, this is the perfect time to capture the color of the lake (especially in the month of July).

Near the lake is a hiking trail that is accessible for differently abled and strollers. 

After a fun-filled day of sightseeing at Yoho National Park, drive back to Lake Louise, and stay there overnight. 

Day 11: Drive to Banff from Lake Louise 

On day 11, start for Banff. Lake Louise is located inside Banff National Park and is only a 50-minute drive away. When you start early, you can enjoy breakfast in the heart of Banff Avenue.

Our favorites : White Bark Cafe, Evelyn’s Cafe, and Touloulou’s. Find more of the best places to eat in Banff National Park

There are tons of things to do in and around Banff from visiting more lakes (Two Jack Lake, Minnewanka Lake, Moraine Lake, and Vermillion Lake), hiking and biking trails, campgrounds in the summer, gardens, and stunning mountain views.

As this is your first day in Banff, we recommend checking off attractions near the townsite. Explore the beautiful shops, buy souvenirs, eat Beaver Tails, and if you are not bored of gondolas already – then hit the Sulphur Mountain Sightseeing Gondola.  

Sulphur Mountain Sightseeing Gondola is located a 5-minute drive away from Banff town. They are open all year round (and trust us, it is even better in the winter in Banff , with Christmas On Top celebrations and stargazing events).

Do remember to wear warm clothing, as it gets super windy up there!

The entry fee at the gondola starts at $64 CAD for adults. They have separate operating hours for different seasons. 

You can stay at the gondola sightseeing platform as long as you want, and take in views of the Bow Valley. There is a nice Sky Bistro at the viewing platform, as well as a Cosmic Ray Station. 

Many hikers head to the top of Sulphur Mountain through a woody forest, and it takes about 1.50 to 2 hours (one way) to reach the summit. If interested, you can hike one way, and then use the gondola to come down.

After a gondola ride, proceed to the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel . This is a vintage 5-star property located in Banff – it is housed in a castle-like building. From the suites and hotel grounds, you can soak in views of the mountains and Banff Valley.

Another 5-minute drive will bring you to Bow Falls . Bow Falls is a major waterfall on the Bow River. You can easily park your car by the falls, and go on a quick stroll to explore the area.

When we visited it on a summer afternoon, we were blessed with rainbow views! 

If interested, you can add a visit to the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies from here, it is a 4 minute drive from the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.

Next on the list is the historic site of Cave and Basin. Cave and Basin National Historic Site is home to natural thermal mineral springs around which Banff was founded and established, as Canada’s first national park. 

In order to get to Cave and Basin, you can walk/hike a distance of 1.5 kilometres (with no elevation gain) from the intersection at the south end of the Bow River bridge. It will take you about 20 to 25 minutes.

Inside you will find sulphur pools (and the smell could be very strong for some). There are also permanent exhibits highlighting the history of the Banff site, and the flora and fauna. The entrance fee is $6 CAD.

From the Cave and Basin Historic Site, you can embark on 2 trails – Marsh Loop and Sundance Canyon Trail (both great for hiking and biking).

In the evening, visit Cascade of Time Gardens. Go on a nice evening stroll here, admiring the Edwardian building (which is an administrative office), Cascade mountain views, and various gazebos and manicured gardens.

It is completely free to enter the complex. From the Cave and Basin Site, Cascade Gardens are a 4 minute drive away via Cave Ave. 

If coming from downtown Banff follow Banff Avenue to the south end and cross over the bridge on the Bow River. You will see the stone Parks Building ahead of you.

Parking is available near the gardens, and located close by is a Chinese Restaurant named Silver Dinner, where you can go for dinner. ( Banff International Hostel is a 6-minute drive from here)

Read: Where to stay in Banff National Park

We have stayed in many properties in Banff over the past 10 years. We will pick three favorites here (mid-budget range),

• Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa: Located in downtown Banff/Banff Avenue, this hotel is a nice option to stay close to town, with quick access (walkable distance) to shops and restaurants. They offer free parking, and there is a spa on site. Book your stay here
• Juniper Hotel & Bistro: Juniper Hotel & Bistro is well known for stunning restaurant with views of Mount Norquay and the Trans Canada Highway. They have a variety of room options (from cabins, and penthouses to standard rooms). It is a fuss-free 3 star property with nice views. Book your stay here
• Elk + Avenue: Another Banff downtown property, Elk + Avenue offers mountain views from many of its suites. There is a jacuzzi and a sauna on-site, along with a nice (rustic and cabin style) restaurant. The hotel is pet-friendly ($25 CAD per night). Book your stay here

Day 12: Exploring Banff National Park 

The second day in Banff is all about road tripping and exploring various lakes inside the National Park.

We will start with Vermillion Lakes (close to Banff downtown), then proceed to Two Jack Lake, Lake Minnewanka, and finally, arrive at the stunning Moraine Lake (by late afternoon or early evening to beat the crowds).

Vermillion Lakes is located about 2.4 kilometers (1.5 miles) from Banff downtown. To get to the lakeside, from Banff or the Trans-Canada highway, access Mt Norquay Road.

From Mt Norquay road, leaving the town of Banff, turn left onto Vermilion Lakes Road, which will take you alongside all three lakes.

The three lakes are formed in the Bow River valley at the foot of Mount Norquay. They are located between the Trans-Canada Highway and the Canadian Pacific Railway tracks.

You can access the lake all year round. We particularly enjoyed the views of the Vermillion Lake with Mt Norquay, in the fall season (it is possible to sight the Northern Lights at the Vermillion Lakes in the late fall, and winter months in Banff).

You can hike, walk or go kayaking at the lake in the summer months.

From Vermillion Lake, start for Two Jack Lake (this is where Salil and I got married, see our pictures from the Banff wedding here ). 

It will take about 14 minutes to get to Two Jack Lake (12.3 km/7 miles) via Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 E and Lake Minnewanka Scenic Dr. There is a campsite near the lake.

We enjoy walking the 2-mile loop trail near the lake. It is a great spot for photos, and also to just relax and enjoy scenic views of Two Jack Lake, and Mount Rundle. You can access the lake in the winter as well – they are perfect for ice skating when the lakes are frozen!

Drive further to Lake Minnewanka next. Minnewanka is a large glacial lake – popular for picnicking, mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, diving, and snowshoeing in the winters. 

The name ‘Minnewanka’ was given by the indigenous Stoney Nakoda First Nations people who called it Minn-waki (or the Lake of the Spirits). In the summer, you can join a scenic boat cruise on Lake Minnewanka. 

Lake cruises last approximately 1 hour and are led by a guide who shares stories of Spirit Island and the Rockies. The cruise begins at the western end of Lake Minnewanka, you can purchase tickets there or online . Cruises operate from May to mid-October. 

You can break for lunch here at Minnewanka lakeside, before starting for Moraine Lake. If you are packing some food, you can rest by the lake (Minnewanka).

Or head back to Banff Avenue for lunch. 

Pro tip : We usually keep non-perishable food items (coconut water, health bars in our car), and just continue on the road trip. It also helps if you opt for a good breakfast 🙂 There are bathrooms in the parking lot of Lake Minnewanka, in case you need one!

After lunch, you can start your drive to Moraine Lake. If starting from Lake Minnewanka, it will take you about an hour to reach Lake Moraine. Depending on the peak season, you could also expect delays, and issues in finding parking.

We recommend planning the road trip in a way that you arrive there closer to 5:00 pm. The days are longer in the Canadian Rocky Mountains in the summer months, so you can expect light until 6:30 or 07:00 pm. 

This picture here was taken in the evening, on Canada Day – July 1st (on Canada’s 150th year!)

Moraine Lake is one of the most picturesque sights in Banff National Park. It is a glacially fed lake situated in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, at an elevation of approximately 1,884 metres. 

There are many easy hikes that you can embark on, in and around Moraine Lake. The Larch Valley hike is one of the nicest places to go on a quick hike (45 minutes to 1 hour). This hike starts at the base of Moraine Lake. To see fall colors, visit for 2 or 3 weeks in mid/late September. 

Read : Things to do in Banff in the fall

Other hikes include –

• Consolation Lakes (6 km/3.7 miles round trip, takes about 1-2 hours)
• Sentinel Pass (this trail continues from the Larch Valley hike with views of the Valley of the Ten peaks. It is a 12 km/7.4 miles hike round trip)

Return to Banff town, after this ‘day of lakes’ road trip. 

Read: Our 5 days in Banff Itinerary

Day 13: More of Banff and Canmore or Johnston Canyon

We have a couple of options for your third day in Banff. You can either keep it easy, and relaxing – go shopping at Banff Avenue, and visit the nearby town of Canmore. Banff to Canmore is about 20 minutes drive away.

In Canmore, you can explore their downtown area. It is less commercialized than Banff Avenue but is still sprinkled with art galleries, cute cafes, and international restaurants. 

You will love the views of Three Sisters in Canmore. For those who want to take it slow, we recommend walking the downtown area, and then strolling the Policeman’s Creek Boardwalk or Old Engine Bridge, while enjoying lovely mountain views.

There are indoor rock climbing areas (Elevation Place), Yoga studios, and skiing at the Canmore Nordic Centre (site of the 1988 Olympic Winter Games). 

There are a ton of hiking options in the Kananaskis Country as well. Grassi Lakes is a popular option, followed by Ha Ling Peak. These hikes can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day. 

You can also drive to Spray Lakes Provincial Park near Canmore, and soak in the views of the mountain (Ha Ling) and Spray Lakes (without a hike). 

Our recent trip to Canmore was in the winter. We drove to the Spray Lakes, enjoyed the provincial park, and returned in the evening. We went dining in Canmore town and then drove back to Banff. Find more things to do in Canmore

An alternate option is to skip Canmore and drive to Johnston Canyon instead. Johnston Canyon is located about a 45-minute drive (one way) away from Banff town.

You can take AB-93N, then exit on TransCanada Highway/AB-1. Turn right onto Bow valley parkway and travel for 6.2 km (3.2 miles) to reach Johnston Canyon.

You can choose from 1 to 4 hour hiking trails (round trip).

• Starting from Johnston Canyon to Lower Falls – 1-hour hike round trip
• Johnston Canyon to Upper Falls – 2 hours hike round trip
• Ink Pots – 4 hours round trip 

Johnston Canyon is amazing in the winter as well. You can participate in ice walks to see the stunning ice creations, trails, and more, like a winter wonderland of sorts. There is easy access to both the upper and lower falls. 

If you are new to ice walks, we recommend joining a group tour!

Day 14: Drive to Calgary, drop off car rental and fly

Today is the last day in Banff. Depending on your departure time from Calgary, you can set aside this day’s itinerary to explore Canmore (if you missed it on day 13) or visit some of the downtown Calgary attractions. 

Banff to Calgary is an hour’s drive away. In downtown Calgary, you can check off the Stephen Avenue Walk, which is a charming pedestrian walkway lined with cafes, shopping, and entertainment venues. Spend some time exploring art galleries or walk the glass floor of the Calgary Tower. 

Fort Calgary is located close to the downtown area. Fort Calgary is a historic landmark – a fort that was built in 1875 by the Northwest Mounted Police.

The fort is a good spot to learn about the history of the city of Calgary and the province. You can embark on a self-guided tour of the complex (45 minutes to an hour). 

Calgary downtown to the airport is about 20 minutes drive away. You can drop off the car here, before flying off.

Read: How to get from Calgary airport to Banff National Park

Vancouver to Calgary Road Trip Itinerary: Drive with Glacier National Park, Revelstoke, and Golden BC 

• Day 6 : Spend a day in Clearwater, and stay in Kamloops (1 night)
• Day 8: Drive to Glacier National Park in British Columbia (day trip). Explore. Stay overnight in Golden (45 minutes from the national park)
• Day 11-13: Head to Banff National Park. Spend 3 days – visit Banff Gondola, Cave and Basin, Vermilion Lakes, Two Jack Lake

Here is an alternate itinerary option for a 14 days road trip from Vancouver to Banff to Calgary. This sightseeing itinerary skips Jasper National Park and instead covers Revelstoke, Glacier National Park, and Golden in British Columbia. 

By following this route, you can explore more of British Columbia’s natural gems and mountain towns. You can also expect a variety of outdoorsy activities, and more ski resorts to choose from.

From day 1 to 6, stays the same (Vancouver > Whistler > Kamloops). 

On day 7, start for Revelstoke. Revelstoke from Kamloops is 2.50 hours drive away. It is well-known for a ski resort on Mount Mackenzie called the Revelstoke Ski Resort.

Pro tip: You can also break your trip at Salmon Arm, BC, also known for skiing in the winter, and for its lush greenery in the summer months. It is one hour and 15 minutes drive each from Kamloops and Revelstoke. 

Mount Revelstoke National Park in British Columbia is an extraordinary destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds. Located in the Selkirk Mountains, this park offers a variety of trails, stunning alpine views, and plenty of opportunities to explore nature. 

In the summer months, you can enjoy music festivals in Revelstoke.

If you are looking for a more active outdoor experience, there is no shortage of amazing hiking trails in the park. With about 59 marked trails ranging from easy strolls to strenuous hikes, it’s easy to find something that suits your skill level and time frame.

The trails in Mount Revelstoke National Park are accessed via the Meadows in the Sky Parkway.  You can also go paddling, and mountain biking here as well. 

For those who love wildlife viewing, Mount Revelstoke National Park provides excellent opportunities to observe animals in their natural habitat. 

Mountain goats and bighorn sheep are commonly seen in the park along with grizzly bears, black bears, and other smaller mammals. Bird watchers will also be delighted to spot a variety of species throughout the park.

Revelstoke is home to 2 breweries, and there are distillery tours that you can participate in. 

You can easily find a ton of options to stay in Revelstoke for the night.

On day 8, drive to Glacier National Park in British Columbia on a day trip. (Revelstoke to Glacier National Park is 30 minutes drive away).

Glacier National Park is home to Mount Sir Donald, a 3,284-metre mountain summit, known for mountain climbing and hiking trails. Other notable attractions include the Illecillewaet Glacier, which is located in the Selkirk Mountains. 

We loved driving through the Rogers Pass, admiring all the mountains (Selkirk). There is a historic landmark here – Rogers Pass National Historic Site, where you can visit the museum and learn about the history of the park. 

If you are looking for an easy hike, lace up for Bear Creek Falls. It is a 1.1 kilometer (or .68 miles) out and back trail located near Columbia-Shuswap A. This trail is only accessible if you are heading east on the Trans Canada Highway from the summit of Rogers Pass.

At the end of the trail, you are welcomed to a nice waterfall. This stop is great to stretch your legs and enjoy a break (the best time to visit is June to September). 

Stay overnight in Golden (located about 45 minutes from the national park). Golden is a wonderful destination for outdoor enthusiasts. As you drive into this gorgeous historic town you’ll be impressed by the views and tons of outdoorsy activities that it has to offer.

One of the most exciting warm-weather activities for adventure-seekers is whitewater rafting. The Kicking Horse River is one of the best whitewater rafting rivers in British Columbia and Western Canada. It has something for everybody, from beginners to advanced levels. 

From skydiving and gliding, hiking and mountain biking, to history and sightseeing, Golden will not disappoint you.

In the winter, hit the Kicking Horse Mountain Resort on your Vancouver road trip itinerary. Kicking Horse Resort Village is located 6.4 km (4 miles) away from Golden, and is a premier ski destination for outdoor lovers and adventurers alike. 

With over 3400 acres of skiable terrain, it boasts some of the best skiing and snowboarding in North America. Kicking Horse also offers an award-winning mountain village complete with shops, lodges, and restaurants. Plus the resort is home to Canada’s Highest Elevated Dining! 

The resort’s terrain offers a wide variety of terrain for all levels, from groomed beginner runs to challenging off-piste options, and the heli-skiing terrain is breathtaking.

You can continue driving from Golden to Yoho National Park and then arrive in Lake Louise to finish the rest of the items on the road trip itinerary (Day 9 through 14 ).

Vancouver to Banff Drive Itinerary 7 days 

• Day 5-6 : Banff National Park sightseeing for 2 days. Ride the Banff gondola to soak in the views of the mountain ranges, and enjoy the lakes nearby

As mentioned above, a shortened version of this Canadian road trip can be done in 7 days, where you can explore Banff National Park attractions along with Lake Lousie, and fly out from Calgary.

This itinerary begins in Vancouver . You can spend the day in Vancouver, and then in the evening drive to Whistler. The next morning, explore Whistler. 

On day 3, start for Kamloops (4.25 hour drive), stop for lunch, and then continue driving to Lake Lousie. Stay overnight here.

Day 4, check off the iconic turquoise lake in the first half of the day. In the second half, go on the popular Agnes Tea House hike. 

If not into hiking, you can squeeze in a drive to Yoho National Park and hit the following stops – Natural Bridge, Lower Spiral Tunnels, Takakkaw Falls, and Emerald Lake Lodge. 

You will be touching Yoho National Park borders in 15 minutes from Lake Lousie. After exploring Yoho, return and stay overnight in Lake Louise.

On day 5, head to the heart of Banff National Park , and pick 2-5 attractions to explore for the next 2 days. 

Finally, on day 7, drive to Calgary and drop off the car rental. Depending on how much you have on your hands, you can spend a few hours in downtown Calgary before returning home!

Find where to stay in Calgary

We hope you found this itinerary for Vancouver to Banff road trips useful in planning yours! 

Have more questions? Let us know in the comments below.

Need an extensive guide? Consider getting our Canadian Rockies Road trip ebook

Additional Tips: Vancouver to Banff Road Trip and driving options

10 hours 30 minutes.  It takes about 10 hours and 30 minutes to drive from Vancouver to Banff, via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 E. Distance is 846.9 km (526 miles).

The drive from Vancouver to Banff is extremely scenic!  With so many small towns, cities, and Canadian National Parks, you are also exploring 2 provinces in the western part of the country! So we highly recommend it.  It is worth noting that you can easily find cheaper flights into Vancouver (as compared to Calgary or Edmonton from the USA). From Vancouver, you can drive to Alberta. If you have additional time on your hands, visit the wine region of Okanagan Valley in BC. (I love Kelowna wine tastings!)  

Yes. The Rocky Mountaineer runs a train service from Vancouver and Banff National Park. Tickets start at $1600 CAD+ and are a 2 day tour. You can also book the service from Banff to Vancouver.

Yes. Here is a 7 day Canadian Rockies Tour, starting from Seattle Airport

Pin: 2 Week Road Trip from Vancouver to Banff Drive

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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12 Comments

Thank you for this Wonderful information! Planning something with limited driving preferably a bus route, also one night with the rail. Saved your post for a more detailed look.

Thank you! Glad you found it useful!

Very useful information! If someone plans to return to Vancouver and have about 7-8 days, what travel itinerary would you recommend (so something like Vancouver->Jasper->Banff->Vancouver)? Thanks in advance!

Thank you Vips! In one week, you can do 2 days in Banff and 2 days in Jasper with one day along the Icefields Parkway attractions. Leave the first and last day for travels and quick stops in small towns or provincial parks, if you like.

Thank you! This was really useful!

Glad you liked the post!

thank you for your very informative blog, I’ll bear a lot of it in mind. We’re doing a very similar trip this summer, so I was wondering is it feasible to leave Jasper visit Lake Louise without staying overnight and then heading to Banff after on the same day?

Thank you, Mike! Yes, you can certainly travel to Lake Louise from Jasper town, spend the day and then stay overnight in Banff.

We are heading back to Banff this summer! Have a wonderful trip! 🙂

Thank you so much for your detailed blog and itinerary, it really helped me in planning out our family road trip from Vancouver to Banff this summer. I had booked the hotels along the way. However, I got a bad ankle sprain from volleyball which is not recovering as fast as I have wanted to. I definitely can’t hike especially on uneven surfaces. I was wondering if many of the lakes or sightseeing spots are pretty accessible with car and require fairly limited walking? I am debating to cancel my trip over all but I know the family may be disappointed. Perhaps there are places where I can go if it’s easily accessible by car and for places which requires some hiking I will wait around for them. I don’t know how strenuous the hiking is along the way. For now I am planning for two nights Whistler, one night Kamloops, one night Golden, three nights Banff area. Any tips or suggestions are truly appreciated and welcome! Thank you!

So sorry to hear that! Hope you feel better soon xoxo

There are a few lakes and sightseeing areas where you don’t have to hike (some walking is required to the viewing area),

In Banff, you can visit Two Jack Lake, Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise without any strenuous hike. It is a short walk from the parking lot. There are picnic areas at the Two Jack Lake, and Lake Minnewanka.

You can also stop by the Vermillion Lakes from Banff Ave

For Whistler, you can sightsee in the village (its very pretty), ride the gondola but skip the hike

In Golden, you can visit the SkyBridge – it has fair bit of walking though on the suspension bridges (they opened the mountain coaster this year which is amazing)

I hope you are able to visit!

Hello, thank you for all the information. We are planning to do the 8 day itinerary, but have a couple of driving questions. Our trip is scheduled to start October 5 and we are a bit concerned how to fin out if the roads are going to be a concern? Also, my spouse has a terrible fear of heights. Is the Sea to Sky road scary? Are there other parts of the journey that might be of concern? Regular mountain roads are fine, but steep drop-offs or cliffs and hair pin turns are a bit of another matter. We drive in Colorado without issues, but we also avoid some of the crazy mountain passes there. Any thoughts would be appreciated!

So excited for your upcoming trip! The Sea to Sky highway has a few steep parts, certain portions are on an incline with about 10 hairpins. You will have to exercise caution when driving in the mountains.

I usually have my husband do the driving (while I take photos) – he does a better job behind the wheel 🙂

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15 Beautiful Lakes in Alberta Canada

R oad tripping around Alberta is an experience of a lifetime. The majestic Rocky Mountains offer extraordinary views while driving and especially when you hike the trails.

Or while seated in a canoe or kayak visiting jaw dropping gorgeous lakes.

In this post you’ll find 15 beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies that you should visit.

You’ll find several of these gorgeous lakes in Alberta's National Parks. Jasper National Park has over 2,000 lakes but only around 100 are named lakes.

Keep reading for travel inspiration for your Alberta road trip vacation.

1. Lake Louise

The stunning turquoise color of Lake Louise makes you wonder if it’s real. To get the best view of Lake Louise you should hike up one of the trails.

Or hop in a canoe or kayak and paddle around Lake Louise, it’s only 2 km in length so it’s an easy paddling trip.

Even if you hike to the back of the lake and up towards the Plain of Six Glaciers trailhead, you’ll enjoy an excellent view of the lake.

Go on a sunny day for the most brilliant turquoise color and you'll see why it's also on our list of famous Canadian landmarks .

LEARN MORE: 12 Best Things to Do in Banff in Winter

2. Lake Minnewanka

When the sun is shining on Lake Minnewanka it’s another of the turquoise gems in Banff. You can take a boat tour around Lake Minnewanka, hike the shoreline, or enjoy a lakeside picnic.

Lake Minnewanka is a large glacial lake at 21 km (13 miles ) in length and 142 m (466 ft) deep.

The Stoney people named the lake Minn-waki which translates to 'Lake of the Spirits'.

3. Vermillion Lakes

A short drive west of Banff brings you to a serene view of Mt Rundle and marshlands abundant with birds.

Vermillion Lakes is the only place I have seen a moose in Banff National Park. He stood in the water while munching on the greens of nature’s buffet.

Will you see a moose at Vermilion Lakes? I don't know but you should let me know if you do.

4. Medicine Lake

On the scenic roadway to Maligne Lake you must stop at Medicine Lake . Hopefully, the sun is shining and a few puffy clouds float overhead, reflecting a mirror image in the water.

You can kayak at Medicine Lake. If you don’t have your own kayak you can rent one in Jasper.

5. Talbot Lake

Another beautiful lake in Jasper National Park, Talbot Lake is 30 km northeast of Jasper town. If you love fishing, then drop a line for lake whitefish and northern pike.

Talbot Lake has amazing views of the Rocky Mountains and it’s a superb place for kayaking in Jasper National Park .

6. Bow Lake

Bow Lake and Bow Glacier are well worth adding a stop on your Icefields Parkway itinerary (highway 93 north) on the way to Jasper from Lake Louise.

In wintertime when the water is frozen you can snowshoe or cross country ski across the lake to Bow Glacier Falls. In summer, there is a trail along the shoreline.

7. Peyto Lake

The famous fox shaped lake of Banff National Park is a joy to see.

While there is a viewing platform (crowded with tour bus tourists) you are much better off hiking up to Bow Summit for a better view of Peyto Lake.

Bow Summit Peyto Lake Overlook is a short easy hike but the tour buses don’t set foot on the trails so you will have more elbow room.

8. Herbert Lake

Along the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park, Herbert Lake is one of the first lakes on this scenic and world renowned roadway.

Hike to the lake and wander around the lakeshore. Herbert Lake is lovely and serene.

9. Waterfowl Lake

Waterfowl Lake is a vibrant blue with a side order of smashingly gorgeous Rocky Mountains. This is a great place to stop and stretch your legs while on a road trip and soak up the views.

10. Pyramid Lake

Sunset is beautiful at Pyramid Lake in Jasper. Park by Pyramid Island and walk across the  pedestrian bridge to the island. Watch the changing light and beautiful reflections of the mountains in the water.

Another great way to experience the lake is to get out on the water, rent a kayak and paddle around Pyramid Lake to the little beach. Have a picnic lunch and paddle back.

Watch for birds, muskrats, and moose around Pyramid Lake.

Discover more fun things to do in Jasper National Park .

11. Upper Kananaskis and Lower Kananaskis Lake

Two classic beauties in the Kananaskis Country, Upper Kananaskis Lake and Lower Kananaskis Lake will take your breath away.

Rawson Lake Trail from Upper Kananaskis Lake is an excellent hike in summer or winter. During summer you can continue from Rawson Lake to Sarrail Ridge for a longer hike.

12. Maligne Lake

Where else can you go kayaking and see a moose in the lake? I’m sure a few places, but Maligne is the one place I’ve seen a moose from my kayak.

You can rent a canoe, kayak, or rowboat at the boathouse. Or you can take a boat tour of Maligne Lake and see Spirit Island without paddling 14 km (9 miles) to get there!

Camping is the ultimate Maligne Lake experience. Kayak to your lakeshore campsite and enjoy the peaceful sunrises and sunsets in paradise.

On the way to Maligne Lake stop and hike the magnificent Maligne Canyon trail .

13. Moraine Lake

One of the most spectacular views in the Rocky Mountains is the lookout at Moraine Lake . Planning is required to get to Moraine Lake because Moraine is one of the most popular lakes in Banff.

Note that personal vehicles are no longer allowed on Moraine Lake Road - year round. You have a few options for getting to Moraine Lake: shuttle bus, hike, or bike.

Book a ticket for the shuttle bus to Moraine Lake from June 1 to Thanksgiving weekend.

In the fall you can take the Roam Transit shuttle bus from Banff to Moraine Lake.

Several excellent hiking trails at Moraine Lake make it a perfect place to spend the whole day. Especially popular during fall larch season is the Larch Valley trail and Sentinel Pass.

Biking is another option to get to Moraine Lake.

14. Abraham Lake

Once you set eyes on Abraham Lake you can’t stop staring. The color is unreal. It looks like Berry Blue Jell-o or Kool-Aid.

Abraham Lake is Alberta's largest reservoir, so it is a manmade lake, and it’s 32 km (20 miles) in length. It’s a popular place for fishing. You could catch rainbow trout, bull trout, lake trout, cutthroat trout, or mountain whitefish.

Abraham Lake (also known as Lake Abraham) is located along the North Saskatchewan River in western Alberta.

Take a winter visit to Abraham Lake to see the frozen air bubbles, January and February are usually the best months to see the bubbles.

15. Upper Waterton Lake

Did you know that Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta and Glacier National Park in Montana formed the first International Peace Park in 1995? It is called the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.

You can take a boat trip on Upper Waterton Lake that crosses into Montana.

Take a day trip to Waterton Lakes  or spend a few days and stay at the Prince of Wales Hotel overlooking Waterton Lakes. There are camping options at Waterton too – check the Parks Canada website for the info.

The article 15 Beautiful Lakes in Alberta first appeared on Solo Trips and Tips

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Worth a road trip with a disability? - British Columbia Forum

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Just looking for advice please.

I have been looking at a road trip for next year. It’s one we have wanted to do for many years but it’s now at a point where I unfortunately have limited mobility Hikes are out for me as are boat trips but the family could still do that.

Firstly what does this itinerary sound like please? Am I missing anything that’s worth a visit?

Secondly, does anyone think that I won’t be able to enjoy it due to not being able to walk far etc? It’s a heck of a long way for us to come if it’s not worth it.

I should add that we do enjoy road trips and we did the famous NC500 in Scotland last year which went well.

Really appreciate you reading. Thanks

11 replies to this topic

The Rockies ( Banff and Jasper) were built for exploring by car with short lookouts along the Icefields Parkway all accessible via short walks from the car .

Vancouver and the Okanagan won’t be a problem either.

If you have a disability/handicapped tag for your car , bring it with you.

There are strategic ways you can experiences all these destinations without having to walk far.

I wholeheartedly and enthusiastically say yes. We can help fine tune your itinerary.

In my opinion you would be better off spend more time in the Rockies, Calgary Stampede or a leisurely drive across BC.

The prices for accommodations in the Banff, LL, Jasper and Whistler are not cheap, so by passing on Whistler you’re going to be saving “some” money.

You don’t say how much time your planing for this vacation, however it you have a time constraint think about a one way trip form Vancouver to Calgary . However there are other round trip routes across BC to and from the Canadian Rockies without having Whistler in the route.

Hiking up a mountain or going on a boat ride is only part of the experience of traveling. There are a lot of sights right beside the hwy or a very short easy walk from parking lot, Numa falls comes to mind, in Kootenay NP. Even if you have to walk from the far end of the parking lot, it’s only a 7 or 8 minute walk max, it’s only maybe 500 ft from the parking lot if that. Going on a Glacier Buggy Ride ( it’s like a bus with huge tires) on the up on the Columbia Glacier beside the Icefeild Parkway is another thing people with mobility issues can do. There are many more things to see and places to go that’s just a couple that pops in my head.

Absolutely come!!!

Bring your walker, if you’re using one, and a disabled parking card. If you don’t have either, look into getting them.

A walker is easy to travel with and will provide you a seat to sit on when you need to.

https://www.tripadvisor.ca/ShowForum-g659487-i11598-Canadian_Rockies_Alberta.html

And here is the link for the Canadian Rockies. Lots of great information for you there too.

The one thing I would highly recommend, would be to drive the Icefields Parkway in both directions. Once in Jasper and ready to leave, drive it again going south. You won't regret it! It gives you another opportunity to see more wildlife. Another chance to for a better weather day. And it looks different going the other direction anyway!

You are from Prenton, on the Wirral! Did you know my gt grandfather from Liscard, Wallasey and my gt grandmother from Birkenhead, Cheshire? They were from another time, of course, but it is a small world sometimes.

How are you with the steps up into a coach? There are shuttles in the Rockies to handle the large crowds wanting to go to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake but unable to park at the lakes. There are parking spots for persons with a disability (who will be waved through the road closures) right at the lakes, but often they are taken. As well there are the huge Ice Explorer coaches to the Columbia Icefields that look like this:

http://www.jaspercolumbiaicefield.com/Icefields-Ice-Explorer-Bus-Details.html

https://shop.travelscootcanada.com/

I would also encourage you to come. Make sure you have emergency medical insurance for travel in Canada. Decide what you need coverage for, then look for a policy that includes those coverages. You may also need coverage for trip delay, trip cancellation and baggage loss.

In BC, the government and businesses have made a lot of progress, in urban settings, providing accessible walking and parking since Rick Hansen did his Man in Motion World Tour in 1985. Those features in more remote places are harder to come by and need more research and more help from the forums.

Great info Mufti, especially about Rick Hansen!

That is so wrong, it is the main reason I stopped posting on TA on regular basis to avoid having to correct such erroneous information.

Travelscoot was engineered by a German - it is manufactured in Taiwan.

TravelScoot Canada, out of Victoria, is the Canadian distributor.

https://www.travelscoot.com/inventor/#:~:text=A%20few%20years%20prior%2C%20light,and%20applied%20for%20a%20patent.

Tripadvisor staff has removed this post because it did not meet Tripadvisor's forum guidelines with regards to off-topic chat.

Tripadvisor staff removed this post because it did not meet Tripadvisor's forum guideline with regards to harassment of another user.

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