Discover the breathtaking journey along the Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most scenic drives, where stunning glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering mountains create an unforgettable journey through the Canadian Rockies.
If there’s one drive I’ll remember forever, it’s the Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Jasper. This 232-kilometer route is packed with jaw-dropping views, glacier-fed lakes, and plenty of surprises. We took this trip on September 20, 2024, and from unexpected snowfall to iconic views, it was full of moments I couldn’t wait to share. Here’s a look at each stop we made and some tips to help you make the most of your own Parkway experience.
Early Morning Start at Lake Louise Campground – 7:30 AM
We kicked off the journey at Lake Louise Campground, under an overcast sky with a light drizzle. Despite the weather, the mountains looked beautiful in the mist, setting a mysterious vibe for the start of our trip. By the time we reached our first stop, the rain had cleared, hinting at the adventure to come.
1st Stop: Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint – 8:30 AM
Our first stop was at Crowfoot Glacier. The glacier used to have three “toes” (hence the name) but has lost one over the years. It’s a quick stop with an easy viewpoint and a great chance for photos. Luckily, we arrived just as the clouds lifted, giving us a clear look at the glacier's icy blue!
2nd Stop: Bow Lake – 9:00 AM
We continued north to Bow Lake, arriving just as the weather shifted from rain to light snow! This wasn’t something we’d expected in September, but it turned the lake into a winter wonderland. Bow Lake is a serene, turquoise lake surrounded by mountains and perfect for peaceful photos. Snow and all, it felt magical.
Cozy Break at The Hanging Glacier Café – 9:30 AM
Hanging Glacier Café, a cute spot with a view of Bow Lake. We grabbed some coffee and walked along the snowy shore of the lake. There’s also a trail here, the Bow Glacier Falls Hike, which I’d recommend if the weather’s nice. For us, the snow was too thick, but if you get the chance, this hike is a favorite for good reason.
3rd Stop: Peyto Lake – 11:00 AM
Peyto Lake has to be one of the most stunning stops along the Parkway, known for its wolf-head shape and bright turquoise color. Even though it was still snowing when we arrived, making the lake hard to see, we caught glimpses through the mist, and it felt surreal. There’s a short, easy trail from the parking area to the viewpoint, which was an easy 10-15 minute walk. We decided to stop again on our way back for another look.
Unexpected Winter Scene on the Icefields Parkway in September
At first, I was honestly a little frustrated with the weather. The clouds and mist blocked our view of the mountains as we drove, and I worried that we’d miss out on the big scenic moments. But it didn’t take long to realize how lucky we actually were to witness something so rare—early autumn and winter colliding on the Icefields Parkway.
The snowy scene made everything feel magical. Walking to the upper viewpoint at Peyto Lake through the larch trees dusted in snow was something I’ll never forget. Even though we couldn’t see the lake clearly on that day, the mist and snow added a unique beauty to the whole experience. And as it turned out, we got another shot at Peyto Lake the next day when the skies cleared up. Check out the later part of this article for that sunny, perfect view—it made me appreciate the Parkway in a whole new way!
4th Stop: Waterfowl Lake – 11:50 AM
At Waterfowl Lake, the skies finally cleared! The lake’s vibrant color came to life, with Mount Chephren in the background, creating a peaceful and picture-perfect scene. It’s quieter here, making it ideal for a relaxed stop and some photos without the crowds
5th Stop: Lunch at Saskatchewan River Crossing – 12:50 PM
The Saskatchewan River Crossing is a practical stop along the Parkway, with a gas station, small store, and restaurant. We grabbed lunch at The Crossing Resort, where they offer a buffet for 35 CAD per person. This is a good place to take a longer break, refuel, and enjoy the views over a meal.
6th Stop: The Big Bend – 1:50 PM
The Big Bend is a popular pull-off along the Parkway with a great view of the winding road and towering mountains. It’s a fantastic photo spot and a good place to stretch your legs and soak in the mountain scenery.
7th Stop: Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier – 2:25 PM
The Columbia Icefield is one of the highlights along the Parkway. We walked to the toe of Athabasca Glacier, where you can get a close-up view of ancient ice. You can also book a guided Columbia Icefield Glacier Adventure to go out onto the glacier itself, which we skipped but heard great things about.
8th Stop: Sunwapta Falls – 4:10 PM
Sunwapta Falls is a short, easy walk from the parking lot, but it’s worth it! The falls are powerful and cut through a deep gorge, creating a stunning scene. It’s a quick stop but very memorable.
Fire-Damaged Forests and Overnight in Hinton
After Sunwapta Falls, we started to see areas burned by a recent wildfire. It was heartbreaking to see the extent of the damage, and it made me appreciate even more the untouched beauty of the rest of the Parkway. With accommodations in Jasper closed due to the fire, we drove to Hinton and stayed at Jasper Gates Resort, which had charming wooden cabins and was a cozy place to rest for the night.
Heading Back to Banff – Day 2
9th Stop: Stutfield Glacier Lookout – 11:50 AM
The drive back gave us a chance to make a few more stops. First up was Stutfield Glacier, where we took our time capturing photos of the glacier. It’s not as crowded as some other spots, so it felt like our own quiet glacier-viewing experience.
10th Stop: Sunwapta River Shoreline – 12:28 PM
We found a random pull-off spot by the Sunwapta River and couldn’t resist stopping to take some photos of the river with the Columbia Icefield in the background. It’s moments like these that make the Parkway feel endless in its beauty.
Returning to Peyto Lake – 2:20 PM
Returning to Peyto Lake on a clear day was such a treat! The snow had melted, and the lake was exactly how I imagined it: brilliant turquoise and strikingly beautiful. This stop felt like the perfect “finale” to our journey.
Last Stop: Bow Lake Overlook
We made one last stop overlooking Bow Lake. It’s a quick pull-off with an elevated view of the lake, and it felt like the right spot to wrap up our Parkway adventure before driving back to Lake Louise.
Wrapping Up the Adventure
Driving the Icefields Parkway is more than a scenic drive; it’s a journey through some of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. From glacial lakes to rugged mountains and winding rivers, each stop reveals the Rockies’ beauty in new and captivating ways. For anyone planning this drive, be ready to slow down, savor the scenery, and let the road guide you to unforgettable moments.
Thank you for reading!
If you enjoyed this journey along the Icefields Parkway, I’d love for you to join me for more inspiring adventures.
If you enjoyed this journey along the Icefields Parkway, I’d love for you to join me for more inspiring adventures.
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