7/4/2024

Icefileds parkway Viewpoints-these points are well marked and easy to find!  

We reserved an entire day for this drive to Jasper, this way we had enough time to soak in the spectacular scenery and to spend ample amount of time at each of these spots. Please note that photos here does not do justice to the breathtaking beauty of Canadian Rockies.

Icefields Parkway: A Scenic Drive Through the Heart of the Rockies

The Icefields Parkway is often called one of the most beautiful drives in the world, and after spending a day exploring its incredible stops, we can confirm it lives up to the hype! Here’s a quick rundown of the highlights from our journey along this unforgettable route.

Herbert Lake
Our first stop was Herbert Lake, a peaceful spot with an easy walk to its still waters. The reflections of the surrounding mountains were stunning, and it felt like a hidden gem compared to some of the Parkway’s busier stops.

Bow Lake
We absolutely loved Bow Lake! Its turquoise waters and the view of Bow Glacier in the background made this a picture-perfect spot. Whether you’re snapping photos or just soaking it all in, Bow Lake is a must-visit.

Peyto Lake
The iconic Peyto Lake was next. Its vibrant blue color and wolf-shaped outline make it one of the most photographed spots on the Parkway—and for good reason! It was crowded, but the view was well worth it.

Waterfowl Lake
Waterfowl Lake was a nice, peaceful stop. Surrounded by dense forest and rugged peaks, it’s a great place to pause and take in the beauty of the Rockies.

Mistaya Canyon
This pretty canyon features powerful water rushing through smooth, curving rock. The short trail to the viewpoint was easy, and the dramatic canyon views were absolutely worth the stop.

Columbia Icefields
The highlight of the drive was visiting the Columbia Icefields. We opted to take the 1-mile walk from the left side of the road to the edge of the icefield, and it was incredible to stand on top of this ancient glacier. It’s an experience we’ll never forget!

Sunwapta Falls
Sunwapta Falls is a lovely waterfall tucked into the forest. The sound of rushing water and the scenic setting made this a great place to take a quick break.

Athabasca Falls
Powerful and majestic, Athabasca Falls was one of our favorite stops. The sheer force of the water tumbling through the canyon is mesmerizing. The walkways around the falls offer several great viewpoints.

An Unknown Waterfall
On our way back, we spotted a small, unknown waterfall cascading down the rocks. It was a simple, unexpected moment of beauty that reminded us how magical this drive really is.

The Icefields Parkway offered a mix of tranquil lakes, dramatic waterfalls, and breathtaking glaciers—all packed into one scenic drive. Whether you’re stopping at every viewpoint or just soaking up the views along the road, it’s a journey you’ll never forget!