Discover the Icefields Parkway – Views of a Lifetime ericaadelaidejohnson, March 28, 2024June 30, 2024 What Makes the Icefields Parkway So Special? The Icefields Parkway connects Banff and Jasper National Parks and is known for being one of the most picturesque roads in the world. While this route is just over 140 miles long, it boasts many spectacular views you won’t want to miss. A drive along the Icefields Parkway is a must for anyone visiting Alberta, Canada. Experiencing the majesty of the Canadian Rockies along this route should be on everyone’s list of ‘must-sees’. How long does it take to drive the Icefields Parkway? If you begin in Lake Louise and travel to Jasper, like we did, the drive will take approximately 3 hours. It will take longer than 3 hours because there is so much to see along the route. You’ll want to be sure to allow time to appreciate these bucket list worthy views adequately. When is the best time to drive the Icefields Parkway? This picturesque drive offers incredible views anytime of year. Personally, it was magnificent in the winter, but if you’re looking for the iconic blue of the alpine lakes, summer is more suitable. Also, keep in mind snow tires are required from November 1 to April 1. Do you need a park pass to drive the Icefields Parkway? Yes, you will need a national parks pass to drive along the Icefields Parkway. Affiliate Link Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through one of our links. Please see our disclosure policy and terms and conditions for more detail. We appreciate your support! Stops You Won’t Want to Miss Along the Icefields Parkway Weeping Wall Viewpoint Weeping Wall Viewpoint in February Our stop at the Weeping Wall Viewpoint was more of a happy accident than anything. I can’t stress enough that the drive along the Icefields Parkway is in itself a destination. The views along the route are just phenomenal. Even though this viewpoint wasn’t on our list, it is a hard one to miss. The shear cliff face was covered in sheets of ice when we visited in February. There were some people ice climbing when we stopped, and it really gave great perspective on just how massive the wall was. We didn’t spend long here, but it was certainly worth the stop. Colombia Icefield You certainly won’t want to miss stopping at the Colombia Icefield that gives this scenic road its name. Make sure to check out the Colombia Icefield Glacier Discovery Center if you’re in the area during opening season. Tours of the glacier are available if you have time, but keep in mind these are also seasonal. The season normally runs from early May to mid October. While we were visiting out of season, a walk along the Glacier Sky Walk definitely looks like an experience to add to your list. During our visit, we settled for photos at the pull off. Sunwapta Falls Sunwapta Falls in February There is something about waterfalls that always appeal to me, and winter didn’t hinder our enjoyment of this popular stop in the slightest. Great viewpoints are available from above, and a short hike will take you to the lower falls. The brilliant blue water was just visible beneath the ice and snow when we stopped by. This views of this winter wonderland are more than worth braving the chill. Athabasca Falls Athabasca Falls in February Like Sunwapta Falls, Athabasca Falls was just as beautiful in the winter. This is another stop that offers great views after just a short hike. Athabasca Falls was probably my favorite of the two, but I highly suggest checking out both given how easy they are to access even in winter. The ice formations along the falls are absolutely stunning. More Stops Along the Icefields Parkway The Icefields Parkway was just a small part of a larger road trip we had planned, so we didn’t get to stop at Bow or Peyto Lake. However, if I ever get to revisit someday, I will certainly be checking these out. The pictures I’ve seen are just incredible, and if you have the time, they are definitely worth a peek. Keep in mind the time of year may also influence the prioritization of stops along the route. We had already spent quite a bit of time at Lake Louise at this point, so we felt stopping by the waterfalls were a better use of our time. No two trips are the same though! Bow Lake Bow Lake is easily accessible from a pull off year-round and offers a picturesque view of the frozen landscape from a small wooden bridge. Peyto Lake The Peyto Lake viewing platform takes approximately 20 minutes to reach from the parking lot. Keep in mind, it may be a bit harder going if there is fresh snow, but your reward is an iconic view of the Canadian Rockies. Where to Stay Near the Icefields Parkway View from Pyramid Lake Lodge Mountaineer Lodge (Lake Louise) We enjoyed our stay at Mountaineer Lodge so much we decided to add on an additional night. It was a great home base for exploring the Lake Louise area. This was a great option that was a bit more budget friendly. Pyramid Lake Lodge (Jasper) The Pyramid Lake Lodge was convenient for exploring Jasper and offered stunning views. We were easily able to walk out on the lake and get some great shots at night from a wooden bridge. Is the Icefields Parkway Worth Visiting in the Winter? Absolutely! The beauty of the Icefields Parkway in winter was one of the most surreal experiences of my life, and I wish we had had more time to explore. Words and photos truly don’t do this place justice. Wildlife along the Icefields Parkway More to Do in Alberta As mentioned, this was just a small part of a larger road trip that included Lake Louise and natural hot springs. You can view our itinerary here. 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