Driving the Icefields Parkway

It’s been a while since we got back from our trip to the Canadian Rockies, but we’re still going through our pictures and video, reliving our wonderful adventures. One of the most enjoyable days we had was during this road trip was along the Icefields Parkway (Highway 97), which travels north-south from Jasper to Lake Louise. This is one of the most scenic drives in the world; the road winds through the valleys of the Rocky Mountains, giving you access to glaciers, waterfalls and spectacular views of towering mountains.

The Icefields Parkway gets its name from the Columbia Ice field, which has 6 major arms and covers a remarkably large territory hidden behind the mountains. One of these arms is the Athabasca Glacier, which high 93 goes right past. It was a short walk along a well-beaten path towards the face of the glacier. This was just one of the many incredible things that we did during our amazing day.

There are many great viewpoints to stop at along the way, and there are spectacular waterfalls – such as Athabasca and Sunwapta falls – and incredible glacial lakes, such as at famous view at Peyto Lake. This drive never disappointed, as around every twist and turn was a new and more impressive view. It was hard to decide when and where to stop because every view was equally mind-blowing. There aren’t enough hours in the day to truly experience such a wild place.

We were so lucky to have blue skies and sunshine; the previous two days that we spend in Jasper National Park, most of the mountains were covered by thick layers of clouds and fog. This has to be one of the most rewarding days of travel that either of us have ever had.

We woke up that morning knowing that today we would be taking “the drive”, and as we looked out the window and saw blue skies, we realized how lucky we were to be rewarded with a day like this. We quickly packed and checked out of our hotel, eager to begin our day.

There are many things we have experienced in life that we recommend others experience, and the Icefields Parkway is high up on that list. We are already planning a return trip, preferably in the summer months so that we can go hiking and camping, allowing us a better chance to explore this place in detail. Don’t miss out on your chance to visit this incredible natural wonder.

We hope you enjoy our latest video; “Driving the Icefields Parkway”.

Driving the Icefields Parkway

Highway 93 – known as the Icefields Parkway – runs between Jasper and Lake Louise, where it connects with the Trans Canada Highway. This is one of the world’s most scenic drives and showcases some of the best views in the Canadian Rockies.

This road passes too many incredible views to count as it winds through the Rocky Mountains. Along the way, this road passes The Athabasca Glacier, Athabasca and Sunwapta falls as well as several unforgettable views of the towering mountains and rivers. The day we planned to drive, the weather was perfect, and we were treated to amazing views with blue skies.