Alberta (Canadian Rockies)
Icefields Parkway and the Canadian Rockies
Calgary to Jasper via Banff, Lake Louise and the Columbia Icefield: turquoise lakes, glaciers, elk and bears.
- Approximate distance
- ≈ 261 mi
- Stops
- 7
- Suggested nights
- 9
- Best season
- June, July, August, September
June to September. Snow is possible as early as September on Bow and Sunwapta passes.
Warnings for large vehicles
- A Parks Canada pass is required. Campgrounds are in high demand: book as soon as reservations open.
- Only one gas station over 230 km (Saskatchewan Crossing, seasonal and pricey). Winter tires or chains required in the cold season.
- The 2024 wildfire hit Jasper: check which trails and campgrounds have reopened.
These routes were written from memory: double-check distances, seasons, rules and closures with official sources before you go.
Stops
- Calgary Departure
- Canmore 1 night
- Banff 2 nights
- Lake Louise 2 nights
- Saskatchewan Crossing 1 night
- Champ de glace Columbia 1 night
- Jasper 2 nights
Simplified line: straight lines between stops. The planner works out the real road.
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