Schedule And Theme For The 2026 Lake Louise Ice Magic Event

February 5th to 8th, 2026 – The carvers will complete 6 sculptures completed and available for viewing starting on February 5th.

2026 Ice Magic Theme is Natural Athletes – Wild Games. This theme will have the carvers showcase Banff National Park’s wildlife and landscapes with the idea of athleticism in mind.

Free Ice Magic Access For Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Guest

The easiest way to attend the event, albeit most expensive way is by booking a hotel stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel. The hotel hosts the Ice Magic Sculpture carving on their lakefront terrace. Hotel guests will not have to obtain a ticket or be restricted to a viewing time slot. All day complimentary access is to the event is provided to Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise guests.

How Can I Get Tickets To Lake Louise Ice Magic 2026?

Other than being a guest of the Chateau Lake Louise hotel, there are only a few other options to gain access to the Ice Magic event. It is through pre-booked complimentary tickets that have a designated arrival timeslot.

Stay At A Participating Hotel Or Lodge

The following accommodation has complimentary tickets for their guests staying with them during Lake Louise Ice Magic. The ticket must be pre-booked. They become available December 8, 2025 and include entry to the event by shuttle. Ask your hotel for details. There is no on-site parking for the event.

These are the participating properties.

• Lake Louise Inn
• Paradise Lodge and Bungalows
• Mountaineer Lodge
• Baker Creek Banff
• Emerald Lake Lodge
• Storm Mountain Lodge

Book A Guided Tour That Includes A Stop At The Ice Magic Event

The two participating tour companies are:

• Radadventures – offering a tour from Banff on February 7th and 8th.
• Ten Peaks Shuttle & Tours – Offering Ice Magic as part of a tour from Banff on February 8th.

Free Local Community Access To Ice Magic

Local residents are able to attend Ice Magic from February 4 – 8, 2026. A specific community night will be held on February 4th, with access also available Thursday, February 5th through Sunday, February 8th at various timeslots.

Tickets are complimentary, but they must be booked in advance and proof of residency must be provided upon entrance to the event. The shuttle pick up and drop for residents is at the Lake Louise Ski Resort where free parking is available. The Roam Bus Route 8X is another option to get to the event.

Residents of the following areas can attend:

Banff National Park Snow Days Event

All is not lost if you’re unable to attend Lake Louise Ice Magic—it’s just one of the many events that take place during Snow Days in Banff National Park. It is a celebration to embrace the spirit of winter, featuring a variety of daytime and evening activities and entertainment.

New for the 2026 Snow Days is the Art of Ice: Carving Competition, running from Friday, February 6 to Sunday, February 8. During this event, twelve internationally renowned ice carvers will showcase their skills. They will create intricate ice sculptures that will be displayed as part of a dedicated outdoor gallery on Bear Street in downtown Banff.

Can The Ice Sculptures Be Viewed After The Ice Magic Festival Is Over?

At this time it is unknown whether the ice sculptures will be available to view after the Ice Magic event is over. There likely only viewable for hotel guests as they sit on the property of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel. In the past the sculptures have been left for as long as the weather and temperatures allow. They may last further into the month of February, but in some years the temperatures have become too warm causing the sculptures to melt. the hotel takes them down for safety reasons as they become unstable.

When Is The Best Time To Take Photos Of The Ice Sculptures?

The best photos are taken in the evening, under the light of the night sky and when the sculptures are lit up. – Dress for winter with lots of layers, mitts, scarves, and hats so you can enjoy it as long as you like

Bring your skates, or rent them from Wilson Mountain Sports, so you can skate around the iconic ice castle built near the shoreline of Lake Louise.

Dress Warmly For Viewing The Ice Sculptures

The temperatures can be bitterly cold in February, dress appropriately. Layering your clothing underneath is very helpful in staying warm. Winter boots, coat and a warm hat and gloves are a must. See the winter packing section of our post for more information on what to wear: How To Pack For A Visit To The Canadian Rocky Mountains

Other Winter Activities In Lake Louise

While attending Ice Magic it’s the perfect opportunity to take advantage of Ice Skating On Lake Louise. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more scenic ice rink! Or experience a traditional Horse Drawn Sleigh Ride.  For more things to do check out our post on: Winter activities in Banff and Lake Louise for non-skiers.

Sculptures From Past Ice Magic Festivals

Note: these photos are from past events when the Ice Magic festival was held near the shores of Lake Louise. The event is no longer set there, a smaller number of sculptures are now hosted on the lakeside terrace of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel.

The carvers create their masterpieces out of stacked blocks of ice that weigh over 300 pounds each. The brave frigid temperatures while they do their work.

The dog mascot for the Fairmont Chateau likes to check out the action at the festival. He looks quite stylish with his warm coat and his booties that help to keep his paws from freezing on the frozen ground.

Ice Magic Festival Sculptures At Night

The sculptures take on a completely different look in the evening. In fact we think the sculptures look their best at night when they are illuminated. It allows for some spectacular photography. The Fairmont Chateau hotel will continue to light the carvings for as long as they are still intact enough for viewing.

Lake Louise

The Guide’s Pantry At The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
This is a grab and go style deli and it’s far from cheap, but it’s the only option for food if you are at the lake other than the extremely expensive restaurants in the hotel. They offer sandwiches, salads, pastries, snacks and hot and cold beverages. The line up can be 30 to 60 minutes long at peak meal times in the summer months. The hot chocolate and scone below will set you back close to $20 plus tax. 

$5 to $20, Open 24 hours
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel, 111 Lake Louise Drive (403) 522-3511
Website: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Deli

The General Store
The General Store is located immediately to the right when you enter the main lobby of the hotel. If your starving and just need something to stop your stomach from growling they have chips, chocolate bars and bottled cold drinks and water. 

Open daily from 7am to 11pm in the summer months, reduced hours in the winter.

Food Options At The Samson Mall In The Lake Louise Village

The Samson mall is located at 101 Lake Louise Drive in the village of Lake Louise, just off the Trans Canada Highway.

Trailhead Cafe
This small family owned cafe is a favourite spot with the locals and tourists alike. There’s minimal seating, so you’ll likely have to wait at peak meal times if you want to sit. Otherwise you can get items to go. They serve great hot breakfasts like eggs with bacon, toast and hash browns or toasted bagels and breakfast wraps. Made to order sandwiches and wraps are available for lunch and there is a good selection of baked goods and hot and cold drinks.

$10 to $15, Open 7 days a week – 7am to 6pm
Samson Mall, Lake Louise, AB (403) 522-2006

Laggan’s Bakery and Deli
Laggan’s offers daily soup and sandwiches made on their artisan breads, as well as sausage rolls, pizza pretzels and other hot foods. They have a wide variety of pastries, cookies and other bakery items. The sandwiches usually go for a 30% discount after 6pm. The line up can be out the door during peak meal times, especially in the summer months. In warmer weather there are a few picnic tables to sit at outside in addition to the limited inside seating.

$6 to $7, Daily summer hours from 6am to 7pm, reduced hours in the winter.
Samson Mall, Lake Louise AB (403) 522-2017

The Bar And Grill
Western and Chinese food dishes are available including soups, salads, burgers, fish and chips and steak.

Samson Mall (403)522-3879
Open daily. Seasonal hours 11am to 2am – July and August hours 8am to 2am
Website: Lake Louise Village Grill

o2 Bubble Tea Obento

Bubble tea and various other beverages, ice cream and Asian food options like ramen and rice bowl dishes.

Open daily from 1130 am to 7pm
Samson Mall, Lake Louise, AB (403) 522-2880

Additional Restaurants In The Lake Louise Village

Bill Peyto’s Cafe
Perhaps one of the favorite places to eat among the locals. Bill Peyto’s Cafe is located in the HI Alpine Hostel. They have a variety of menu selections that are prepared from scratch, such as burgers, pasta, roast beef and salads and fish and chips. For breakfast there is granola, yogurt parfaits and bacon and eggs. We’ve eaten here more times than I can count and always had excellent food. In my opinion the best bang for your buck in Lake Louise.

Mains $10 to $30
Hi Alpine Hostel, 203 Village Rd, Lake Louise, AB (403) 522-2200
Summer daily 7am to 930pm
Website: HI Alpine Hostel

Timberwolf And Legends at the Lake Louise Inn
Timberwolf is an Italian-style bistro offering a large selection of pizza and pasta. $15 to $30, Open daily 5pm to 10pm

The Outpost Pub at the Post Hotel
The Outpost is located in the back of the Post Hotel. It is a popular place due to the cozy and rustic atmosphere with large portions of excellent food. They have soups, salads and burgers. We really enjoy their salmon burger and fries. There’s another restaurant in the Post Hotel and it has fabulous food and an award winning wine cellar, but obviously not going to be on the list for those seeking budget options.

The Post Hotel, 200 Pipestone Rd, Lake Louise, AB (403) 522-3989
Mon-Fri 4:30pm-Midnight; Sat-Sun Noon-Midnight

The Mountain Restaurant
The Mountain Restaurant is attached to the Shell gas station. They offer soup, salad, burgers and a few other main dishes.

$20 to $30, Open daily 12pm to 630pm
200 Village Road, Lake Louise AB (403) 522-3573
Website: The Mountain Restaurant

Javalanche
The Javalanche is owned by the same family as the Mountain Restaurant. There are a few seats inside, otherwise you can get food to go such as pastries, sandwiches, wraps, tea, coffee and other beverages.

$10 to $20, Open daily 9am to 4pm, except closed on Wednesdays
200 Village Rd (adjacent the Husky Station), Lake Louise, AB (403) 522-3574

Food At The Lake Louise Ski Hill

Lodge of the Ten Peaks Cafeteria at Lake Louise Sightseeing Lift & Gondola
They offer eggs, bagels or breakfast burritos or burgers and fries, hotdogs, soup or chili for lunch. There are several grab and go salads, pastries, snacks and hot and cold beverages. Open seasonally from 730 am to 530pm.

Whitehorn Terrace Coffee Bar is not considered a “cheap eats” option, but it’s also located on the mountain, it’s accessible via the Summer Gondola. The views are spectacular. It has a thoughtfully created menu with local sourced, seasonal ingredients. Open daily in the summer from 11am to 345pm. Inquire for reservations during peak hours from 11am to 1pm. $18 to $60

Banded Peak Base Camp is open in the summer from 11am to 6pm. It’s an authentic smokehouse BBQ items like chicken wings and pulled pork as well as starter salads, chili and soup offered with a great slope side view. There are also a variety of grab and go items.

Lake Louise Ski Hill, North side of Hwy 1 across from Lake Louise Village (403) 522-3555
Website: Lake Louise Gondola Restaurants and Dining

Where To Purchase Grocery Items In Lake Louise

The Village Market
The Village Market is located in the Samson Mall in the village of Lake Louise, right off the Trans Canada Highway. It has some pre-made grab and go items and limited selections of produce and most everything else you would find at a typical grocery store. It can save you money in comparison to eating all your meals in restaurants in Lake Louise, but the pricing is high. Which is to be expected for the only grocery store in a highly popular and remote tourist destination.

Summer Hours Daily 830 am to 830pm, reduced hours in the winter months.
Samson Mall, Lake Louise , AB  (403) 522-3894

Petro Canada
A small selection of grocery items, milk, cheese, kraft dinner, bags of cookies and chips, typical gas station type snacks. The prices tend to be more favorable on similar items that you would find at the market.

100 Village Road, Lake Louise, A (403) 522-3755
630am to 11pm daily

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake Lodge Cafe

If you’re enjoying time at Moraine Lake the cafe will be your only option for food and drink. They serve coffee, tea and other beverages and a small selection of grab and go food and pastries.

Seasonal Daily Hours 9am to 4pm.
1 Moraine Lake Rd, Unit 2, Lake Louise, AB (403) 522-3733

If You’re Coming From Banff For The Day, Consider Bringing Food With You

That’s pretty much it for cheaper dining options in Lake Louise, It is very limited compared to Banff, to be honest there are only a few other dining options altogether. If you are on a tight budget and coming on a day trip from Banff or Canmore, consider bringing food with you. The main grocery stores in Banff are IGA and Nestor’s Market and Safeway or Save On Foods in Canmore. You can pick up items to make your own bagged lunch or picnic. Most of the grocery stores have a selection of pre-made grab and go items and deli selections.

As part of the Canada Strong Pass, Parks Canada is offering free admission for all visitors to all national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas operated by Parks Canada, as well as discounted rates for Parks Canada camping from June 20 to September 2, 2025. Other reduced or discounted rates are available for Via Rail travel and various museums and galleries across Canada. More information can be found here: Canadian Heritage Pass and here: Canada Strong Pass FAQ

Entry Information For Visiting The Canada Rocky Mountain National Parks

The park passes associated with the Canada Rocky Mountain National Parks are a source of confusion for many people. The term entry fee gets used, but it’s not a fixed fee to enter the parks. It’s an amount that is charged on a per day basis for the total number of days you will be spending in the parks. These passes are known as daily park passes. The Discovery Pass is another option, it is valid for a year and allows entry into all of the national parks in Canada.

As you read further you’ll have a better understanding of how these passes work, when they are required and what they include.

Table Of Contents For The Parks Canada Entry Fees

Is A Separate Park Pass Required For Each Canadian Rocky Mountain National Parks?

You do not need a separate park pass for each park. When you purchase a pass it is not designated to a park. There is not a specific Banff Park Pass or Jasper Park Pass. You can visit the following mountain parks with the same pass.

• Banff National Park
• Jasper National Park
• Yoho National Park
• Kootenay National Park
• Waterton Lakes National Park
• Revelstoke National Park
• Glacier National Park
• Elk Island National Park

Your daily passes will allow you to visit any of the above parks as many times as you like for the number of days that your park pass is valid. For example if you purchased daily park passes on July 10th for a total of 4 days, they would be valid to July 14th until 4pm.

In the case of the Discovery Pass it allows you to visit all National Parks in Canada for one year from the date of purchase. A search for the different National parks can be done here: Canada National Park Search

As a side note, not all eight of the aforementioned parks are in the Canadian Rocky Mountain Range. Revelstoke National Park and Glacier National Park are in the Columbia Mountain Range that sits west of the Canadian Rockies. It is made up of mountains called the Purcells, Selkirks, Cariboos and Monashees. Mount Revelstoke National Park is entirely within the Selkirk Range. Elk Island National Park is close to the city of Edmonton. It is in the Southern Boreal Plains and Plateaux Natural Region. All eight parks are in the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta.

When Are You Required To Purchase A Park Pass?

Drivers and passengers entering into the parks in their own vehicle or a rented vehicle that will be stopping or using the parks in any way are required to have a park pass.

If you arrive to a park by another mode of transportation such as a bus or shuttle and then rent a vehicle you will need to purchase a park pass for yourself and the passengers for each day you will be spending in the parks.

If you are coming into the parks with a tour operator you will need to inquire if a park pass has been purchased on your behalf.

Some Examples Of When A Park Pass Is Required

Many visitors have a misunderstanding and think a pass is not required if they are making a brief stop. A park pass is required for any use of the parks. Some example are below.

• stopping at a viewpoint or pullout to enjoy the scenery or to take photos
• a stop to see Lake Louise regardless of how long
• using a picnic area
• attending an event, festival or conference within a park regardless if it’s for personal or business purposes
• stopping in a town or village such as the Banff town site, even if it is just to grab a quick bite to eat
• camping, hiking or using any park facility requires a park pass in addition to any applicable camping fees
• if you are a driver or a passenger of a vehicle brought into a park to ski for the day
• if you are staying at accommodation in one of the national parks

What Do The Park Pass Fees Get Used For?

The park pass fees stay in the area where they were purchased. In the Rocky Mountains they are used for wildlife protection such as the fencing that runs through Banff National Park on the Trans Canada Highway. It also pays for the building and maintenance of wildlife underpasses and overpasses that cross the highway. Maintenance to picnic areas, trails, parking areas, viewpoint pullouts, scenic parkways, interpretive signs, day use areas, public washrooms, safety education and information services are all part of what the fees cover.

Misunderstandings With Park Passes And Accommodation In The Parks

If you are paying for accommodation in one of the national parks it does not exclude you from needing a park pass. If your hotel has a parking fee for your vehicle that does not exclude you from needing to purchase a park pass. Neither of these assumptions is correct. Purchasing a park pass is required for each day spent in the parks above and beyond the cost of your accommodation in the parks or any parking fees.

Do I Need A Park Pass To Visit Or Stay In Canmore?

A park pass is not required for Canmore. The town of Canmore is not in a National park, it is located outside the eastern boundary of Banff National Park.

However, some people mistakenly think because they spend time in Banff National Park in the day they don’t need a pass because they return to their Canmore accommodation at night. Going into Banff for lunch, a walk or to visit a tourist attraction requires a park pass, even you leave at night to go sleep outside of the park.

To recap, you’ll need a pass that is valid for every day that you go back and forth between Canmore and Banff or any of the Rocky Mountain National Parks. You will not need a pass for a day that you spend entirely in Canmore or if you travel to other areas of Alberta that are not in a National Park.

You will however need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass if you plan on traveling to Kananaskis Country or the Bow Valley Corridor. These are provincial run parks that include the Nordic Center Provincial Park near Canmore, with the Grassi Lakes Trail being one of the most popular hikes in that area.

Is A Park Pass Required To Drive Through The Rocky Mountain National Parks?

The Trans Canada Highway #1 is Canada’s main highway and it happens to pass right through Banff and Yoho National Parks. If you are using the highway strictly as a route of travel and making no stops in the parks you are not required to purchase a park pass. The same applies for driving straight through Jasper National Park on the Yellowhead Hwy #16. However a park pass is required for the Icefields Parkway, see below.

A Park Pass Is Always Required For The Icefields Parkway #93N And For The Bow Valley Parkway #1A

If you are driving on the Icefields Parkway #93N that runs between Lake Louise to Jasper you will need a park pass even if you are not stopping. This is considered a scenic roadway and not an essential transportation route.

The same applies if you travel on the Bow Valley Parkway #1A, an alternative route to the Trans Canada Hwy #1 that runs between Banff and Lake Louise.

Do I Need To Purchase A Park Pass When Entering A Park With A Tour or By Bus or Shuttle?

If you are entering a park as part of a tour, shuttle or bus your park fee has probably been included in the cost of your tour or ticket, but you will need to check with your tour operator. If you rent a vehicle for use in the parks after arriving by other means you will need to have a valid park pass to display in the vehicle for the days it is in the parks.

What Are The Types Of Canada National Park Passes And How Long Are They Valid?

There are daily park passes available and an annual Discovery Park pass. Each is available for a single person or as a family/group.

Daily Park Pass

When you purchase a daily park pass it is valid until 4pm the day after it was purchased. If you are visiting for several days you would buy a pass for the total number of days you will be spending in the parks. An example is if you enter a park on August 17th and pay for daily passes for 3 days, they would be valid to August 20th until 4pm. Note: the daily passes do not include entry into national historic sites.

The daily park passes can be purchased for an individual adult or individual senior or as a family/group pass that covers up to seven people traveling in the same vehicle. Youths 17 years of age and under are free.

Annual Discovery Pass

The annual Discovery Pass is valid for a full year until the end of the calendar month from the date purchased. Example: an Annual Discovery Pass purchased on August 5th 2024 would be valid until August 30th, 2025

The Annual Discovery Pass provides entry into over 100 National Parks, National Marine Conservation Areas and National Historic Sites. Historic sites you may want to visit in Banff are the Banff Park Museum and the Cave and Basin.

Daily park passes can be purchased for an individual adult or individual senior or as a family/group pass that covers up to seven people traveling in the same vehicle. Youth that are 17 years of age and under are free.

What Is The Cost Of A Canada National Daily Park Pass And A Discovery Pass?

Price Per Day For Daily Passes

• Adult $ 1100 (age 18 to 64)
• Senior $ 9.50 (age 65 and up)
• Youth 17 and under is free
• Family/Group $ 22.00 (up to seven people arriving together in a single vehicle)
• Commercial group $9.35 (per person)
• Valid to 4pm the day after the pass was issued
• can be used for Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Yoho National Park, Kootenay National Park, Revelstoke National Park, Glacier National Park, Waterton Lake National Park and Elk Island National Park for the number of days you have purchased

Annual Discovery Pass Prices

• Adult $ 75.25 (age 18 to 64)
• Senior $ 64.75  (age 65 and up)
• Youth 17 and under is free
• Family/Group $ 151.25 (up to seven people arriving together in a single vehicle)
• Valid for one year from the date of issue to the last day of the calendar month
• Can be used for all Canada National Parks, national historic sites managed by Parks Canada and national marine conservation areas.

When Is It Economical To Purchase A Daily Family/Group Park Pass Or An Annual Discovery Park Pass?

Once you have more than 2 adults entering the park for a day or for a couple of days it’s cheaper to buy the daily Family/Group Pass at $22.00 a day for the number of days you need.

For example 3 adults for 1 day is $11.00 x3 = $33.00, therefore the group/family pass is cheaper at $22.00

If you’re going to be visiting any of the Rocky Mountain Parks for 7 days or more or visit again within a year or visit any other Canada National Parks within a year then it’s worth buying the Annual Discovery Pass.

For example an Adult daily pass at $11.00 per day x 7 days = $77.00 The Annual Discovery Pass for one adult is cheaper at $75.25

If you have two adults at $11.00 x 2 for 7 days = $154.00, the family/group Annual Discovery pass is cheaper at $151.25

The savings in the above scenarios is minimal, but once you have three or more adults the savings is substantially more.

Are The Canada National Park Passes Transferable?

No, the park Discovery Pass is not transferable or able to be sold after your use. They need to be signed on the back by the pass holder. In the case of a family/group Discovery Pass one person needs to be designated as the person to sign the pass. That person needs to be present when using the pass. The other people (up to six more) traveling with that passholder do not need to be the same people each time, nor do they need to be related to the passholder.

What Admissions Or Fees Are Not Covered By The Canada National Park Pass?

The Canada National Park Passes do not include the following cost and fees:

• camping fees and campground firewood
• camping reservation fees
• backcountry permits
• parking fees, such the Lake Louise parking fee and any other paid parking areas in the National Parks
• fishing permits
• guided hikes or special heritage or interpretive programs
• attractions such as the Banff Gondolas or Maligne Lake Boat Cruise
• shuttles to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise
• public transportation
• ski hill passes
• parks not managed by Parks Canada
• hot springs such as Banff Upper Hot Springs, Jasper Miette Hot Springs and Radium Hot Springs in Kootenay National Park
• In the case of the daily park passes they do not cover entry into to national historic sites within the parks, the Discovery Passes do include these.

Do The Canada Park Passes Provide Entry Into Provincial Or Other Types Of Parks?

The Canada Park passes only cover Canada’s National parks. They do not cover the entry into Provincial Parks, territorial parks, municipal parks, regional parks, private parks or historic sites not managed by Parks Canada. Some of these parks are free, but others have a fee system similar to the national parks.

Another area that visitors to the Rocky Mountains like to enjoy is Kananaskis Country and the Bow Valley Corridor. To visit these areas with a vehicle it requires the purchase of a Kananaskis Conservation Pass.

Where Can I Buy A Park Pass For The Canadian Rocky Mountain National Parks?

The most common place where passes are purchased is at the park entrance gates. They can also be purchased at visitor information centers, at a number of the staffed campgrounds and at select local retailers. There are online options as well.

Parks Canada Rocky Mountain Entry Gates

There are some areas of the parks with entry gates where you can purchase park passes upon entry. They are generally open from 9am to 5pm, but hours may be reduced during winter or extended in the summer months.

Traveling Westbound Towards Banff National Park Or Jasper National Park

East Banff Park Gate – This is the gate on the Trans Canada Highway #1 that is approached when driving west from Calgary or Canmore. If you have already purchased a park pass you don’t have to stop at this gate each time. Obey the reduced speed limit and use the pass-through lane.

Jasper East Park Gate- This is the gate you will approach when driving west from Hinton or Edmonton on the Yellowhead Highway #16

David Thompson Park Gate – (Only open in the summer months) This is the gate you will approach when heading west from Red Deer or Rocky Mountain House on the David Thompson Highway #11.

Traveling Eastbound To Jasper National Park Or Kootenay National Park

Kootenay West Park Gate – This is the gate you will approach when driving east from Radium Hot Springs or Cranbrook on the Banff-Windermere Highway #93

Jasper West Park Gate – This is the gate you will approach when driving east from Kamloops, Prince Rupert or Prince George on the Yellowhead Highway #16

There is no park gate when driving eastbound on the Trans Canada Highway #1 to Yoho or Banff National Parks. You can stop at the Tourism BC visitor center in Golden or at the Field Visitor Center in Yoho National Park. Or depending on your destination there is the Lake Louise visitor center or Banff visitor center.

Traveling Northbound Or Southbound To The Icefields Parkway

If you have not already purchased a pass there are park gates located at each end of the Icefields Parkway at the Lake Louise end and the Jasper end.

Niblock Park Gate – (only open in the summer months) This gate is located at the end of the Icefields Parkway #93N that is near the Lake Louise village.

Icefields Parkway Park Gate – This gate is located at the end of the Icefields Parkway 7 kms south of the Jasper townsite.

National Park Visitor Center Locations

• Banff Visitor Center – in the town of Banff at 224 Banff Avenue
• Lake Louise Visitor Center – in the village of Lake Louise next to the Sampson Mall
• Jasper Visitor Center – in the town of Jasper at 500 Connaught Drive
• Kootenay Visitor Center – (May to September only) in Radium Hot Springs village main street
• Yoho National Park Visitor Center – (May to September only) at the town of Field Visitor center on the Trans Canada Highway #1

Where To Purchase Passes At Campgrounds

Park passes are available at staffed Parks Canada campgrounds including those that are part of the Parks Canada Campground Reservation Service and the Kicking Horse campground in Yoho National park and the Johnston Canyon campground in Banff National Park.

Where To Purchase Passes At Retail Locations?

There are select retail locations and RV/Camper rental locations where you can buy Discovery Passes in person.

• Cabela’s Retail Canada – they also sell daily park passes
• Calgary Airport Authority
• Campers Village
• CanaDream
• CrossIron Mills – they also sell daily park passes
• Guarantee RV – Calgary
• Mountain Equipment Company (MEC)
• Wilson Mountain Sports Lake Louise Village

Other Tourism Centers Where You Can Purchase Park Passes in person

• DMF Travel Centre (Dean Man’s Flat)
• Tourism Canmore Kananaskis
• Tourism Golden
• Hinton Visitor Information Centre
• Valemount Visitor Centre

How To Purchase Park Passes Online Or By Phone

An Annual Discovery Pass can be purchased prior to your trip online or by phone through Parks Canada. Call 403-760-1343 or 1-888-773-8888 between 8am and 4pm M.S.T. (Mountain Standard Time) or online at: Parks Canada Discovery Pass

Daily Park Passes and Discovery Park Passes can be purchased online at Banff/Lake Louise Tourism and at Tourism Jasper. Day passes or temporary Discovery passes must be printed out and displayed in your vehicle while visiting in the parks.

Online purchases have nominal shipping charges based on your location and can take 2-4 weeks for regular shipping to the U.S.A. or longer for international destinations. Express shipping is available for an increased charge.

Is There A Discount Or Advantage To Purchasing Canada Park Passes Online Before My Trip?

No, there is no discounted price for online park pass purchases. As noted above there is a shipping charge on top of the park pass cost. The only advantage to having a park pass ahead of time is to avoid having to be in a line up to purchase a pass at a park gate. The Banff East Park Gate is the busiest in the parks. This is the gate that is used when traveling west from Calgary or Canmore. The lines are generally not an issue outside of the summer months or peak skiing weekends and even then they move fairly quickly.

What If I Drove Through A Park Gate And It Was Closed Or Unattended?

Head to one of the Parks Canada Visitor Centers mentioned above. If you were traveling outside of normal operating hours or at night then attend a visitor center the next morning.

Are There Any Discounts Or Coupon Codes For The Discovery Park Pass?

CAA/AMA members can receive a slight discount on an annual Family/Group or individual Discovery Pass. See more info here: AMA Travel Parks Canada-Discovery Pass. The passes through AMA are valid for one year, but they must be purchased for the current month of travel. There are no other discounts available for park passes.

Do I Need To Purchase More Than One Park Pass For A Family Or Group Traveling In More Than One Vehicle?

The answer is yes, regardless of whether you are buying day passes or have or will be purchasing an annual Discovery pass. You will need a pass for each separate vehicle stopping or spending time in the parks. You can’t share a park pass with two or more vehicles.

What If You Are Traveling With A Recreational Vehicle That Is Towing A Car?

If you have an RV (Recreational Vehicle) that will be in the parks along with a car that you will use to travel around then technically both the RV and the car will need to have a park pass displayed on the dash or hanging from the rear view mirror.

What Do I Do With A National Park Pass When Traveling On A Motorcycle?

You need to purchase a parks pass like anyone else. Parks Canada realizes that if you display an annual pass or any pass on a motorcycle in the parks that there’s a chance it could be stolen, blow away or get wet. Keep it on your person so that it’s available if a parks officer asks to see it when parking or returning to your motorcycle.

What If I Want To Extend My Time In The National Parks?

Visit one of the Parks Canada offices. If you initially paid for a few days inquire if you can upgrade to an annual park pass. Show your original pass receipt and they will apply the amount to the cost of the annual pass. (As long as the initial receipt was within the last 30 days)

Are There Any Free Access To The Canada Rocky Mountain National Parks?

There are options for Indigenous to access Banff National Park that can be found here: Parks Canada Banff Indigenous Connections

Park access options are available for new comers to Canada and new Canadian citizens through to Canada’s National Parks through the Institute for Canadian Citizenship’s canoo mobile app. Information can be found here: Parks Canada Newcomers National Park Admission. This may be a limited time offer.

Canada Day, July 1st for the last couple of years has been free admission to all of Parks Canada National Parks and Parks Canada managed National Historic Sites. Admission is free, but a park pass is still required. This may be a limited offer so check that it is still available before making plans.

Free admission for support persons for those traveling with a visitor who has a disability and depends on the support person to experience the National Parks. Visitors with disabilities who are independent and may make use of assistance from travelling companions but are not dependent upon it would not qualify. Contact Parks Canada for more details.

Do Park Officials Check For National Park Passes?

Yes, pass checks are done on vehicles at gates into the parks, particularly the Icefields Parkway, throughout the parks, at public parking areas, trailhead parking areas, parking lots for ski hills, accommodations and camp sites. In recent years checkpoints have been set up by Parks Canada on the roads leading up to the ski hills. Basically your vehicle is subject to inspection anywhere it is parked within a National Park.

Rent a canoe or try one of the trails in the area that range from casual walks to more strenuous hikes. Or just sit and take in the beauty of the lake.

When Does The Road To Moraine Lake Open And Close Seasonally?

The drawback to this beautiful lake is the road to the lake is only accessible for part of the year. The road crosses through an area of high avalanche risk. For safety it is closed through the winter and early spring. Parks Canada opens the road when the risk of avalanche has passed, usually in early June.

The road closes for the season after the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday (the second Monday in October).

The timing for opening and closing the road can be subject to change depending on the conditions. Once the road is closed for the winter season there is no way to access the lake by vehicle.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Moraine Lake?

When the road opens to Moraine Lake for the season don’t count on seeing the turquoise water that Moraine Lake is famous for. Due to the lakes high elevation it can remain frozen until late May or into early June depending on the temperatures. When it first thaws the water level is very low. As the temperatures warm up the glacier melt from above the lake starts to feed into it. The lake water level crests in mid to late June and from this time through September is it’s peak of blue colour.

The weeks of October leading up to the road closure are a still a great time to visit but the colour of the water may not be as intense at this time.

The photos below were taken in different years just shortly after the road to Moraine Lake was opened for the season in mid to late May. The setting is still undeniable beautiful, but it’s too early to see the stunning colour of the glacier water.

How Does The Water Of Moraine Lake Get To Be So Blue?

When the melt water from the glacier up above starts to flow into the lake it brings with it glacial silt, also referred to as rock flour. The silt particles are so fine that they are suspended in the meltwater. It’s the light reflecting off the silt that gives the lake the intense blue colour.

The two photos below were each taken in early October in different years. As you can see the weather and views can be quite different.

The Twenty Dollar View

It’s more like a million dollar view, but the iconic image of Moraine Lake and the Valley Of The Ten Peaks was used on the back of Canadian twenty dollar bills issued between 1969 and 1979. The beautiful deep blue water with a backdrop of towering snow-capped mountains is one of the most photographed spots in the Canadian Rockies and possibly in all of Canada.

The Rockpile Trail Offers The Best View Of Moraine Lake

The Rockpile trail switchbacks along the back of the moraine with several sets of stone steps. It brings you to the top of the rock moraine where there are fantastic views overlooking the lake.

As you make your way along the trail watch for pikas, marmots, squirrels, chipmunks and variety of birds that are frequently spotted in the area.

You won’t be disappointed with the views. Keep working your way up to the highest viewpoint levels to get different vantage points.

• Trailhead – Starts from the lower end of the parking lot across the bridge on the outlet stream.
• Distance – 350 meters
• Elevation – 30 meters
• Time – 40 minutes return trip

Moraine Lakeshore Trail Will Leave The Crowds Behind, Even On Busy Days

Starting near the canoe docks there is a fairly flat trail that works its way along the shoreline to the back of the lake. As the trail weaves in and out of the trees it offers glimpses of the water and mountains.

Only a dent of the crowds will venture onto the Lakeshore trail and even fewer still will go the full distance of it. A boardwalk is located at the end of the lake where a stream of rushing water flows from the Wenkchemna. It’s a total of 2.9 km’s, returning back on the same trail. Allow approximately 45 minutes.

Other Trails At Moraine Lake And Seasonal Travel Restrictions

Due to bear activity some of the trails accessed near Moraine Lake have seasonal restrictions to maximize safety. During these times it is mandatory that hikers travel in a tight group of four or more. It’s typically from mid-July to mid-October. Occasionally trails may be closed off completely. It is always best to check ahead with Parks Canada for the current trail conditions. Information and a map of the Moraine Lake Group Access area can be found here: Bear Management Moraine Lake Group Access Restrictions

Larch Valley And Sentinel Pass

The Moraine Lakeshore Trail branches off to hikes to Sentinel Pass and Larch Valley Trails and to Wenkchemna Pass And Eiffel Lake.

Sentinel Pass and Larch Valley are one of the premier hiking areas in Banff National Park, particularly in the 2^nd and 3^rd week of September when the larch trees are displaying the peak of their golden colours. You can choose to do the easier Larch Valley hike or continue on to the more challenging trail to Sentinel Pass. The summer months are another great time to hike in this area. It’s not as crowded as when the fall colours are taking place. In late July wildflowers are usually at their peak bloom.

Larch Valley/Minnestimma Lakes

This hike is rated as moderate. It’s 8.6 km’s return trip with an elevation gain of 535 meters. Allow up to 4 hours depending on how long you spend taking in the views.

The trail head is located at Moraine Lake, follow the lake shore to the trail marker sign. It is a continuous ascent through a thick forest that offers occasional glimpses of Moraine Lake. A long series of switchbacks into higher elevations opens up into the meadows of the Larch Valley. In the background are the famous Ten Peaks. You can turn around at this point or continue through the valley. As you start to leave Larch Valley there are views of Mount Temple and Pinnacle Mountain and one of the Minnestimma Lakes comes into view, the other is behind a ridge near the base of Sentinel Pass.

Sentinel Pass

The first part of the Sentinel Pass trail is the same as the Larch Valley trail noted above. From the Larch Valley there are challenging switchbacks ascending to Sentinel Pass. The pass sits at an elevation of 2611 meters between Mount Temple and Pinnacle Mountain. This hike is rated difficult. It’s 11.6 km’s round trip with an elevation gain of 725 meters. Allow 5 to 6 hours.

During the fall colours these trails can be overwhelmed with people. To avoid some of the crowds hike on a weekday if possible. Start your hike very early in the morning or later in the day. See more info here: Larch Valley And Sentinel Pass

Moraine Lake Lodge Accommodation

Moraine Lake Lodge is the only accommodation at the lake. Considering it’s a luxury resort sitting meters from the water the nightly rates are at a premium. If your budget allows a stay you can take advantage of enjoying the lake at any time without having the frustrations of getting a parking spot. Simply stroll out of your room to witness the sunrise or enjoy the lake later in the evening when most of the tourists have left the area. The lodge is open from early June to early October. The amenities include a gift shop and a restaurant.

Below is a view from the top of the rockpile trail looking at the lake shore. On the right you can see the Moraine Lake Lodge accommodations.

Accommodations Near Moraine Lake

As mentioned above there is only one accommodation at Moraine Lake. The next closest options are approximately 12 to 14 km’s from Moraine Lake and very close to Lake Louise. To get to these properties you continue heading uphill on Lake Louise Drive past the turn off to Moraine Lake and towards Lake Louise.

• The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (located at Lake Louise)
• Deer Lodge (5 minutes walking distance from Lake Louise, less than 1 km)
• Paradise Lodge and Bungalows (2.5 km’s from Lake Louise)

There are also accommodation options in the village of Lake Louise that are approximately 14 km’s from Moraine Lake. There are a variety of price ranges with the lowest being the HI Hostel Lake Louise to the luxury Post Hotel and Spa.

Moraine Lake Canoe Rentals

There’s no better way to experience the beauty of Moraine Lake than gliding through its serene blue waters in a canoe. Canoe rentals are available through Moraine Lake Lodge.

Canoe Dock Seasonal Operation And Hours

The dock operates from mid-June to mid-September. In the peak of summer it is generally open from 930 am to 5pm with the last canoe going out a 4 pm. The hours can change throughout the season. It’s best to check directly with Moraine Lake Lodge.

The operation of the canoe dock is weather dependent. It can shut down without notice due to inclement weather such as snow, rain or strong winds.

Canoe Rental Cost

Rentals costs start at $160CAD plus tax per canoe for an hour rental. Paddles, life jackets and basic instruction are provided. The canoes available on a first-come, first served basis. Reservations are not accepted and guests of the Moraine Lake Lodge take priority

Canoe Occupancy

The canoes can accommodate two to three people. No pets are allowed in the canoes.

Can I Bring My Own Private Canoe, Kayak Or Paddle Board To Moraine Lake?

The answer is sort of yes. You can bring your own kayak, canoe, paddle board or inflatable watercraft to the lakes and rivers within Banff National Park. However, there will be limitations to what can be brought to Moraine Lake now that private vehicles have been restricted from driving there. Inflatable watercraft such as kayaks and paddleboards can be accommodated on the Parks Canada shuttles to Moraine Lake. If you’re booking with a commercial shuttle check with each individual company to see what they allow. 

There’s no public boat launch at Moraine Lake,  you will have to launch from the shore. Some rules have to be followed to  bring your own watercraft to prevent the spread of invasive aquatic species. They can be found here: Parks Canada Banff Clean Drain Dry Regulations

A self certification permit is required to be filled out and kept with you while you are using any watercraft in the park. It can be found here: Banff Self Certification Permit For Watercraft

Parks Canada offers more information about using water watercraft is available here: Paddling in the parks.

Is It Possible To Visit Both Moraine Lake And Lake Louise In The Same Day?

Absolutely, these two beautiful attractions are not that far from each other. Both Lakes are accessed from Lake Louise Drive. Keep reading further for bus and shuttle options that are available to get you to both lakes.

How Long Should I Plan To Spend At Moraine Lake?

You could spend as little as an hour at Moraine Lake if all you plan to do is climb the Rock Pile trail or take a short walk along the lakeshore, but likely you’ll want to allow a bit more time to soak in the stunning beauty. You may want to spend a half or full day to do one of the many hikes in the area. Check the average length of hiking time for any particular trail you are interested in and plan accordingly. 

Directions To Moraine Lake

Note: Personal vehicles are no longer permitted to access Moraine Lake. For bicycling or general informational purposes the directions are below:

From the Lake Louise Village located off Trans Canada Hwy #1 follow Lake Louise drive uphill for approximately 3 km’s. Look for the turn on the left hand side for Moraine Lake Road. Follow the winding road for 12 km’s to the parking area at the end. If you keep going past the turn off to Moraine Lake Road and continue up Lake Louise Drive you will reach the parking area for Lake Louise within a few minutes.

Tips For Avoiding The Summer Crowds At Moraine Lake 

Recent restrictions put in place in 2023 which have banned access to the lake by private vehicle are going to create changes. It’s not yet known how this new implication will effect the number of people at the lake. However, it’s probably safe to say that the following holidays will continue to have larger volumes of visitors.

• Victoria Day long weekend – the first Monday of May.
• Canada Day – July 1 and the entire weekend if the holiday falls on a day that creates a three day weekend.
• Heritage Day Weekend – the first Monday in August.
• Labour Day Weekend – the first Monday in September.

The Larch hiking season is another crowded time at Moraine Lake. This is when the trees in the Larch Valley are showing off their golden coloured needles. The peak of the colours usually occur in the 2nd and 3rd week of September and can continue to retain some colour through the end of the month. Locals come from all around the area to hike and its become very popular with visitors as well. Expect the surrounding trails that are accessed from the Moraine Lake area to be extra busy at this time. You can try to avoid some of the crowds by planning your hike for mid-week.

The photo below shows the small parking area for Moraine Lake. These spots will no longer be available to private vehicles, except those with proper accessibility hanging tags. The parking will be limited to tour buses and shuttles. 

Personal Vehicles Are Banned From Accessing Moraine Lake

The important thing to not about Moraine Lake is that it is not accessible by personal vehicle. A decision was made to ban personal vehicle access due to the overwhelming traffic and environmental and wildlife impacts in the area.

The only exceptions for personal vehicles are guests of the Moraine Lake Lodge and vehicles equipped with proper accessibility parking permits. Information about the change and more detail on why it was implemented can be found here: Private vehicles banned at Moraine Lake

Options For Getting To Moraine Lake

• Reserve a seat on the Parks Canada shuttle
• The Roam Transit bus
• A commercial transportation provider, such as a guided tour, taxi or chartered bus.
• Bike via Moraine Lake Road 

More information is provided on each of these options below. 

Parks Canada Shuttles To Moraine Lake And Lake Louise

The Parks Canada shuttles leave from a parking area located at the Lake Louise Ski Resort at #1 Whitehorn Road. Advance reservations are required. You can book the shuttle to Moraine Lake or Lake Louise. 

Once you are at either lake you can visit the other lake by taking the Lake connector shuttle. This lake connector shuttle is available on a first come, first serve basis. There is no additional charge for lake shuttle reservation holders. Your reservation includes a return trip back to the Park and Ride area at the ski resort from either lake. 

There is a bus that connects the village of Lake Louise and the campground to the Park and Ride shuttle area at the ski resort. If you are staying in the village or the campground you are encouraged to leave your vehicle at your accommodation and take the bus to the Park and Ride area. It is on a first come, first serve basis and is free if you have a lake shuttle reservation. 

How Do The Advance Lake Shuttle Reservations Work?

In the spring 40 percent of the seats for the Parks Canada Moraine Lake shuttle are released for reservations. The remaining 60 percent are released on a rolling basis at 8am, 48 hours prior to the departure day.

Are there any same day shuttle reservations available? 

In peak times it’s a slim chance you would get a spot on the shuttle, but Parks Canada staff can assist with making a reservation on the next available time slot for that day. If any are available they would generally sell out by 9am. 

Time schedules, routes and pricing information for the shuttles can be found here: Visiting Moraine Lake and Lake Louise.

Additional Transportation Options To Moraine Lake 

Hop On Hop Off Shuttle

From late May to the end of September the HopOnBanff company has a shuttle bus that offers options for accessing Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, the Lake Louise Village, Lake Louise Gondola and Johnston Canyon. Schedules, fares and information can be found here. HopOnBanff

WowBanff Explorer Tour Bus 

WowBanff operates an open top double decker bus from early June to early October. It runs between the parking lot at the Lake Louise ski resort and Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. Advance reservations are recommended, but you can take your chances and try to buy a ticket at the bus. More information can be found here: WowBanff

Mountain Park Transportation Private Shuttle To Moraine Lake

Mountain Park Transportation offers a shuttle to Moraine Lake  and Lake Louise with bookings available from June to mid-October. Advance booking is highly recommended, otherwise you can take your chances with a spot being available on a first come, first served basis. The shuttle does pick ups and drops offs in the village of Lake Louise near Wilson’s Sports in the Samson Mall and at a few of the village hotels. More information can be found here: Mountain Park Transportation Moraine Lake Shuttle 

Private Taxi Service To Moraine Lake 

For one or two people this is not an economical option. However, it may be worth the price for a small group of people. Inquire with Rocky Mountain Transit at 403-522-2525

Banff Public Roam Bus – Moraine Lake Express Fall Season Service

The public Banff Roam bus only operates in the fall to Moraine Lake for the Larch Valley Fall hiking season. There are daily shuttles from Banff that run directly to Moraine Lake from the 3rd week of September to mid-October. Schedules and fares are available here: Roam Transit Bus

Booking A Tour To Moraine Lake

Another option is to visit Moraine Lake as part of a tour. This way you can sit back and let someone else take care of all the details. Many tours offer a narration about the area and it’s history.

Some of the companies that offer pre-organized and customized private tours to Moraine Lake are below:

Discover Banff Tours 

Banff Adventures 

Radventures

Bicycling To Moraine Lake

Bicycles and pedal-assisted e-bikes are an option to reach Moraine Lake. Keep in mind that it’s 30 km’s round trip from the village of Lake Louise. The first 3km’s of the route is at a moderate uphill elevation along Lake Louise drive until you reach the turn off for Moraine Lake Road where it’s an additional 12 km’s to the lake. Both roads are narrow and have minimal or no shoulders. Use extreme caution as you will encounter traffic on Lake Louise Drive and even though private vehicles have been banned from Moraine Lake road there will be bus and shuttle traffic. Heavy traffic on Moraine Lake Road can be avoided by riding early or late in the day. 

Note: There is no parking available at the connection point of Lake Louise Drive and Moraine Lake Road. Your bicycle journey to Moraine Lake will not be able to start here unless you can have someone drop you and your bicycle off. 

If you want to bike to Lake Louise, skip the turn off to Moraine Lake Road and continue another 1 km uphill along Lake Louise Drive until you reach the Lake Louise Parking area where bike racks are provided. 

If you plan to start your bike ride from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake note that it can be extremely difficult, if not impossible in the peak summer months and early fall to obtain a parking spot at Lake Louise. 

More information for road and trail riding can be found here: Road Cycling in the Lake Louise area

In some years the road to Moraine Lake is still free of snow for a short period after being closed for the winter season and before it opens to the shuttle bus and commercial tour buses. This makes for a peaceful ride uninterrupted by traffic. If you choose to ride a bike to the lake at this time check first with Parks Canada for the most current road and avalanche conditions.

Is There Any Way To Get To Moraine Lake During The Winter Road Closure?

This is the most frequent question we get about Moraine Lake. To clarify there are no vehicles of any kind permitted on the road once it is closed for the season. There are no tour companies, shuttles, dog sleds or any other type of transport that is available to get to the lake. The road is closed for good reason. There’s an extreme avalanche risk on the last few kilometers near the lake. Visitors are so eager to see the lake they contemplate walking through the deep snow or attempting to snowshoe. It’s not recommend. Not only would you be crossing through hazardous avalanche terrain it would be an exhausting return distance of 25 km’s from the connection point at Lake Louise Drive and Moraine Lake Road. If you are a cross country skier you can enjoy the tracks that are set on the first half of the road. See below for more information about skiing.

Moraine Lake Road Cross Country Skiing

In the winter the road becomes a popular spot for cross country skiing. Once there’s enough snow Parks Canada sets tracks, but they end at the viewpoint for the Consolation Valley and the Ten Peaks which is well before you reach Moraine Lake. The total distance is 15.6 km return. The trail has a steady climb with gentle rolling and hilly stretches. It’s rated as easy/novice.

Going past the track sets the road crosses large avalanche chutes and is not recommended. Anyone attempting to go past the end of the grooming should be equipped and trained in avalanche rescue and first aid. There is a high avalanche risk from November to late April.

In the summer months the lake is buzzing with canoes and remains busy all day, there can be a wait to get a canoe. As with many attractions the quieter times are in the early evening after the majority of tourists have left. If the boathouse is offering earlier morning rentals that’s another good time to try.

Even though you won’t have the water to yourself in the summer, it’s is still a unique way to experience the lake. At the very least it will allow you to leave behind the hoards of tourists lining the lake front and shoreline trail.

Renting a canoe for one to one and a half hours is enough time to paddle near the end of the lake and back.

Canoe Rental Hours, Rates And Occupancy

Important Note: Canoe rentals are first come, first served. There are no advance reservations available.

Seasonal Boathouse Operation

The start up of the canoe rentals depends on when the lake thaws, it’s generally open by mid-June and weather permitting to the end of September or early October with reduced hours.

Hours Of Operation

The hours can vary but in the peak summer months the boathouse is generally open from 830 am to 8 pm, weather permitting. The last boat going out an hour before closing. It’s best to check with the boathouse or hotel concierge for the current operating hours.

Canoe Rental Rates

Per Hour
Hotel guests – $110 plus GST
Non-hotel guest $170 plus GST

For Half An Hour
Hotel guests $100 plus GST
Non-hotel guests: $160 plus GST

Canoe Occupancy

The maximum number of people in a canoe is 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 small children, each under (25kg) 55 lbs. One person in the boat must be at least 16 years of age.

For more information about the canoe rentals see: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Canoe Rental Information.

Tips For Renting A Canoe

• There is only one boat rental on the lake and it’s operated by the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel. Standing at the hotel looking out at the lake it is located on the left hand side accessed by a pathway. Canoes are available on a first come, first serve basis. They can’t be reserved.
• The weather can fluctuate and change rapidly. The boathouse closes if the lake becomes too windy, rainy, fogged in or has snow falling.
• The temperatures tend to be cooler in June and September. In the morning and early evening during any month you need to be prepared by dressing in layers.
• On warm days wear a sun hat and bring sunglasses, the reflection from the water is strong. Even on a cloudy day you can sunburn easily, cover up or wear sunscreen. Don’t forget to bring drinking water with you.
• Use common sense when out on the water. Remain in your seat, don’t stand up or walk or sit on the sides of the canoe. Don’t make sudden or jerky movements or rock from side to side. Every summer the rescue boat has to go out to pull people out of the water. At a frigid 5.C you do not want to fall in the lake.
• Life jackets are provided.

Can I Bring My Own Canoe Or Kayak To Use At Lake Louise?

Check with Parks Canada for current information. There is a restriction in place for water activities in Banff National Park. It effects those wanting to use a canoe, kayak, stand-up paddle board or any type of inflatable vessel on any body of water in Banff National Park. More information can be found here: Banff Bulletin for water activity restriction.)

Yes, you can use your own canoe or kayak at Lake Louise or any of the lakes or rivers within Banff National Park. There’s no public boat launch at Lake Louise. You will have to carry your canoe from the government parking lot area and launch it from shore of the lake. Parks Canada offers more information on paddling in the parks.

For more information on canoeing opportunities in the Rocky Mountains see: Canoeing and other water activities. 

Ring It In At The Rink

From 5pm to 8pm a family fun event is held at the Canmore Recreation Center at 1900 8 Avenue. There is live music, a DJ dance party, ice skating, crafts, photo booths, food vendors and pyrotechnics show at 8pm that can be viewed from the field outside the recreation center.

Millenium Park Fireworks

At midnight a fireworks show takes place at Millennium Park. The park is located at the end of 5th Avenue where it crosses 1st Street.

Note that the parking lot is closed to vehicle access starting on December 30th until January 1st. Residents and visitors are encouraged to walk or take the Roam public bus transportation to access downtown on New Year’s Eve. 

Canmore New Year’s Eve Parties

Royal Canadian Legion Branch Three Sisters 

The Canmore band the Elektric Squirrels will ring in the new year with party favours and snacks as well as a complimentary drink are included with your ticket. $35 in advance, $40 at the door with cash or debit. 18+ event. 834 7 Street, Canmore. Tickets can be found here: elektric squirrels tickets

Canmore Restaurant New Year’s Eve Events

Malcolm Hotel New Year’s Black & White

Celebrate New Year’s Eve Oscar Red Carpet at the Malcolm Hotel. The dress code is hollywood glam. 

There’s an earlier 3 course dinner that is family friendly event with a kids menu. Must finish by 7:30pm. A later 5 course dinner has includes party favours and a midnight toast. 18+ event. There is music entertainment at both seatings. 
Malcolm Hotel
321 Spring Creek Drive, Canmore

See our post on here for New Year’s events in the nearby townsite of Banff. Banff New Year’s Eve Celebrations And Dining

Canoeing, Kayaking And Stand-Up Paddle Boarding On Lake Louise And Moraine Lake

Canoeing at the beautiful settings of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are on the wishlists of many visitors. These two incredibly scenic lakes have turquoise blue waters that are backdropped by dramatic mountains. Each of them have docks with canoe rentals. You are allowed to bring your own canoe, kayak or SUP board to Lake Louise, but it comes with challenges because you can’t use the privately run dock to launch from.

More information can be found in our post about canoeing the turquoise waters of Lake Louise.

It’s not possible to bring a canoe to Moraine Lake since private vehicles are no longer allowed to drive to the lake. There are some shuttles to Moraine Lake that have limited space to bring an inflatable paddleboard or kayak. Don’t assume this is possible without checking ahead of time with the shuttle service you plan to use. Canoe rentals are available at the lake on a first come, first serve basis.

Information for can be found here for Moraine Lake shuttles and canoe rentals.

Canoeing, Kayaking And Stand-Up Paddle Boarding In The Banff Townsite Area

If you have your own equipment there are several places where you can kayak, canoe or stand up paddle board and some rental options are available. The local favourites close to the town of Banff include Johnson Lake, Two Jack Lake and Vermilion Lakes.

Vermillion Lakes, 40 Mile Creek and Echo Creek

The Vermillion Lakes are gentle shallow waterways where you can often see birds and wildlife. Taking pictures of the beautiful scenery and magnificent views of Mount Rundle are a photographers dream.

You can launch your own boat from the Banff Canoe Club launch at the corner of Bow Avenue and Wolf Street and paddle your way to Vermillion Lakes. Or do it in the opposite direction and launch directly into the lakes off Vermillion Lake Drive. They are accessed from Mt. Norquay Road. You can find public docks at the First and Second Lake. Even the upstream current is mild enough to travel on a stand up paddle board. Take note that making your way from one of these waterways to the other is only possible when the water levels are high.

Banff Canoe Club Rentals has canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddle boards available by the hour. They do not accept reservations, it is on a first come, first serve basis. They have limited paddleboards available for off-site rental use. If you feel more comfortable with a group they have kayak tours and they offer a Big Canoe tour where paddling experience is not required. Operation is from late June to early October. It’s located at the corner of Wolf Street and Bow Avenue.

Johnson Lake and Two Jack Lake 

Both of these lakes are accessed from the Minnewanka Loop Road.

Two Jack Lake has a nearby campground of the same name. The lake has drive up access making it easy to transfer your canoe or kayak into the water. It’s water is much calmer than nearby Lake Minnewanka.

Johnson Lake is a small, but scenic lake with a picnic area and Banff’s only sandy beach. It’s one of the few lakes in the area with warm enough water to swim in during the summer. Check for Park’s Canada bulletins (link at the bottom the page) before heading to Johnson Lake. There have been access restrictions due to fisheries management in the past.

Lake Minnewanka 

This vast lake is not for inexperienced canoers or kayakers. It’s often very windy, with gusts that change direction. Staying close to the shore is the safest bet. Parking is available at the lake. Take Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive off of the Trans Canada Highway 1. You can drop your kayak or canoe off at the launch area and then find your parking spot to save from having a long portage to the water.

Lake Minnewanka is the only lake in Banff National Park were motorized boats (gas or electric) are allowed. Boats may be required to provide a provincial inspection certificate or be subject to inspection before launching in Lake Minnewanka to ensure they do not have any invasive mussel species. More information here: Parks Canada Banff Boating Navigation

Small motorboats are available for rent from the Minnewanka boat dock as well as canoes and kayaks, all are on a first come, first serve basis from June to early October.

Options For Experienced Canoe or Kayak Paddlers

Experienced canoeists or kayakers may wish to paddle any of three different legs of the Bow River:

• Lake Louise to Castle Junction
• Castle Junction to Banff
• Bow Falls to Canmore

More information can be found here: Parks Canada Canoeing The Bow River

Options For Experienced Whitewater Kayakers

• Bow River (Banff Springs Golf Course to Canmore) – Class I-II
• Pipestone (at Lake Louise) – Class IV
• Red Earth Creek – Class V+
• Upper Bow River – Class III-V

V+ should only be attempted by expert paddlers, it includes 20 to 30 foot drops and log jams.

Canoeing, Kayaking And Paddleboarding On The Icefields Parkway

On the Icefields Parkway the waters of Herbert, Hector, Bow and Waterfowl Lakes all offer spectacular views.

Herbert Lake

Small Herbert Lake is the first body of water you come to along the south end of the Icefields Parkway. Reflections of Mount Temple can be seen in the water when it’s calm. It’s easy to launch a kayak, canoe or paddleboard from the shoreline.

Hector Lake

This lake offers beautiful views of the Waputik Mountain Range. It requires a portage. Access requires crossing the Bow River, only do so when water levels are low in the late summer.

Bow Lake 

This is the third largest lake in Banff National park. The setting is stunning, but watch for strong winds that can quickly turn it into choppy waters.

Waterfowl Lakes 

Further along the Icefields Parkway these two lakes are close to the base of Mount Chephren. The Waterfowl Campground is nearby.

Regulations For Using Your Own Canoe, Kayak Or Paddleboard In Banff National Park

Anyone using fishing and aquatic recreational equipment on bodies of water in Banff National Park including canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards must obtain a Self-
Certification permit. They can be found online here: Banff National Park rules for watercraft. It basically is a checklist having you verify that you understand and have followed the rules to protect the waters from the spread of Aquatic
Species. Information on penalties for not complying can be found here: Banff aquatic species bulletin. Similar rules may apply in other Canadian National parks and bodies of water throughout the country.

Locations Outside Of Banff National Park To Canoe, Kayak Or Paddleboard

Kananaskis Country

Kananaskis is located east of Canmore, take Highway 40 just south of the Trans Canada Highway.

Barrier Lake is one of the smaller, but popular lakes in the Kananaskis area. The water tends to remain calm making it a great spot to canoe or stand up paddle board.

On a calm day, the larger Upper or Lower Kananaskis Lake are another great option.

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is a beautiful spot to canoe and it’s located just a half hour west of Lake Louise. Canoe rentals are available on site on a first come, first served basis. If you bring your own canoe, kayak or paddleboard there are easy access points to launch from.

Tips That Are Good To Know Before Heading Out On The Water

Life jackets are a must on the lakes and rivers in the Rocky Mountains. Even in the summer months the glacier waters barely get above freezing. The average temperature is 4.C. to 5C. If you fall into the water hypothermia can set in within minutes.

For important bulletins, tips and safety information visit these sites before heading out on the water.

• Paddling in Banff National Park
• Important Parks Canada Banff Bulletins
• Seasonal Closures In Banff National Park

Skip The Paid Tourist Attractions And Stick To Free Or Lower Cost Activities

One way to save money is to avoid the high priced tourist attractions. Adding these pricey activities into your itinerary can quickly escalate the cost of your visit. The parks are a vast area consisting of some of the most beautiful nature and mountain scenery in the world. Visitors were attracted to the beauty of the area long before there were any gondolas, boat cruises and glacier rides operating. Once you have purchased your park pass you can spend time admiring the majestic mountains and glacier lakes, walking along the pathways and hiking trails and driving the scenic roadways for free.

Don’t feel you are missing out if you can’t afford to partake in the paid attractions that are meant to empty tourist’s wallets. There are so many beautiful spots to visit such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake and the Icefields Parkway and many other free and low cost activities in Banff to enjoy.

The Cheapest Times Of The Year To Visit Banff And The Canadian Rocky Mountains

If your budget is limited it’s easier to tell you when not to visit the Canadian Rockies and that would be during the summer months. This is peak tourist season and if you plan to stay in Banff during this time, be prepared to pay for it. Budget priced accommodation by Banff standards can be shocking.

Below is a rough breakdown of the seasonal accommodation pricing. These are just general guidelines of what to expect for typical hotel style accommodation at the lower end of the price scale. Higher end and luxury properties will be significantly more. We’ve based the prices on a double occupancy room during the week. Accommodation booked during a weekend, a holiday or during a special event can increase dramatically depending on the demand.

Mid-June through mid-September – accommodation is at premium pricing. Some hotels may have a 2 day minimum stay for weekends. Expect most hotel room prices to be between $400 to $550 a night and go up from there. Consider anything less a bargain.

Mid- to late September. Prices don’t seem to drop as much as they used to for the last half of September. Don’t expect much more than a slight decrease from the summer rates.

Early to mid-October is shoulder season. Prices are still high, but usually cheaper than the summer months. Expect prices from $250 to $400 a night and up, although you may be able to find some better deals.

From mid-October to mid-December is considered somewhat off-season. There are room options available in ranges from $180 to $250 a night. November is considered one of the quietest months in the mountains and you may get deals as low as $150 a night or less.

Mid-December through the first week of January – prices increase and they peak to a premium from the weekend before Christmas through the first week of January. Hotels may have a two night minimum stay over the weekends and up to a four night minimum stay over the Christmas holidays. Rooms will be $400 to $600 or more per night.

The second weekend of January to mid-May – during the peak of ski season which runs from Christmas through early March the prices will be higher. Especially on weekends when skiers flock from nearby areas to stay in the mountains. Expect $180 to $300 a night during the week. The weekends can be $100 to $200 or higher a night compared to the week day prices. If you can visit during the week in the ski season it will not only save you money the slopes will be a less crowded.

Mid-May to mid-June is another shoulder season. The prices start to increase, but are not as high as the summer months. Average prices $250 to $400 per night.

Canadian Statutory Holidays To Take Note Of When Planning A Trip

Take note of the holidays that may affect prices from the averages listed above and may require advance booking due to high demand.

• December 25th Christmas Day and the 26th Boxing Day through Jan 1^st New Years is a busy time
• February – third Monday is Family Day which creates a busy long weekend during the ski season
• March/April – Good Friday through Easter Sunday creates a busy long weekend, the dates fluctuate between late March and April each year.
• May – the Monday before May 25^th is Victoria Day creating a long weekend and is dubbed as the start of the tourist season
• July 1^st – Canada Day. If it’s on a Friday or Monday it creates a busy long weekend. Even if it’s during the week the day is busy in the parks.
• August – Civic Holiday, first Monday of the month. It creates another busy long weekend
• September – Labour Day the first Monday of the month. The last long weekend of the summer tourist season.
• October – second Monday of the month is Canadian Thanksgiving
• November – Remembrance Day the 11^th of the month. Usually not too busy to worry about this date.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Visiting In The Off Season?

If you plan to partake in activities like boat tours or the Ice Explorer on the Athabasca Glacier take note that most of these types of tourist operations close for the season by mid-October. From then until the first week of December is a time of transition or off-season. The summer/fall activities have ceased but the winter ones have not yet started.

See our post on Visiting the Rocky Mountains In The Off Season Of November.

Mid-April through mid-May is another time of transition, especially in places of higher elevation. Winter activities are ending as Spring is trying to take hold. Many of the glacier lakes remain frozen, only the lower valley trails are free of snow for hiking and most tourist activities such as lake cruises don’t start up until the beginning of May. Temperatures can still be quite cold and the weather can be unpredictable with snow storms occurring.

Tour operators offer cheaper rates during this time for visitors coming from overseas. If you’re planning your once in a lifetime dream trip make sure your visit is going to meet your expectations. If you have always wanted to see the beautiful turquoise glacier waters of the Rocky Mountain lakes this is not the time to visit.

For more information on visiting in the spring  or late fall see our post Pros and Cons of Banff and Jasper in the shoulder season of April and May

Tips For Booking Banff Accommodation

Booking accommodation well in advance is a must for July and August and through most of September. Any lower priced rooms are gone early. Start looking six months ahead of time. The longer you wait the less selection there will be. If you try to book last minute or arrive without a place to stay you can expect to pay an exorbitant amount for a room, if you can find one at all.

Weekends and holidays in the summer are the most expensive and book up the quickest. If you’re only staying for a few days try to plan it between Monday and Thursday to save a few dollars. You can search for hotels that offer package deals, some have rates that include the Banff Gondola or ski passes.

Consider A Room With A Kitchenette To Save On Food Costs

Having accommodation with a small kitchenette or full kitchen can allow you to prepare at least some of your own meals and cut down costs. In the crowded and busy summer months it can be much more relaxing to come back to your own peaceful space for your evening meal. Some hotels offer BBQ areas for guests to use in the warmer months.

Many of the hotels that offer kitchens have condo or chalet style accommodations with several bedrooms that can sleep 6 or more people. If you’re traveling with family or friends this can be an economical option compared to paying for several hotel rooms.

Here’s a list of some of the properties offering accommodation with a kitchenette or full kitchens.

In the town of Banff

• Fox Hotel and Suites
• Rundlestone Lodge,
• Irwin’s Mountain Inn
• Chareltons Cedar Court

Tunnel Mountain – This location is just a few minutes drive from downtown Banff and about a 20 minute walk. Many of the accommodations on Tunnel Mountain offer their guests complimentary bus passes.

• Banff Rocky Mountain Resort
• Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets
• Buffalo Mountain Lodge
• Hidden Ridge Resort
• Tunnel Mountain Resort

Banff Hostels And Budget Hotels

There’s four budget friendly hostels in Banff. The first three are within a few minutes walk from the core of downtown Banff.

• Banff International Hostel – 449 Banff Avenue. Dorms, private rooms and a guest kitchen.
• YWCA Hostel – 102 Spray Avenue. Dorms, private rooms and family rooms with kitchenettes. Café and guest kitchen.
• Samesun Backpackers – 433 Banff Avenue. Dorm rooms and a bar.
• HI Banff Alpine Center – 801 Hidden Ridge Way. 1.8 km from town. Dorms, private rooms and cabin suites, guest kitchens and a restaurant and bar. They offer guests complimentary local bus passes.

There’s far too many Banff hotels to supply a list, but any google search of “budget Banff accommodation” will bring up the options. Remember that the price of a “budget” hotel in Banff might be a lot higher than what you’re expecting. If being located right downtown is not a priority try some of the properties that skirt the edge of town. They may have cheaper rates. Do your research and read reviews. Lower cost hotels may be older properties that have not been updated for quite some time.

Canmore Accommodation Can Be An Alternative To Staying In Banff

Canmore serves as a good base to explore the Rocky Mountains. It’s a 15 minute drive east from downtown Banff. There’s more selection for lower to moderately priced accommodation in Canmore. They have a large number of vacation condos that are a good option for longer stays. Many of them are like a home away from home with a full kitchen, multiple bedrooms and in-suite laundry.

For a full comparison between the two locations see our post on Staying In Canmore Versus Banff As A Base.

Canmore might not be the best choice if you plan on doing a lot of trips back and forth heading west to places like Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, the Icefields Parkway or into Yoho National Park. The extra driving can become a nuisance. If you plan on exploring east to Kananaskis Country then Canmore is the perfect base as it sits right on the back door to everything the area has to offer.

The majority of the Canmore hotels are along Bow Valley Trail. It’s a convenient location to get to downtown. There’s a large amount of vacation condos located along Kananaskis Way, a few minutes drive or a 15 minute walk to downtown. One of the cheapest options in Canmore is the Hostel Bear, don’t you just love the name. It offers dorm style and private rooms as well as a kitchen for guest use.

Accommodation And Dining In The Lake Louise Area

The amount of accommodation in Lake Louise is limited and there’s not much that fits into the budget category. During the summer months and early fall it’s extremely expensive and books up fast.

The lowest price option would be the HI Lake Louise Alpine Center. If you don’t usually stay in hostels don’t be so quick to dismiss this option. It’s situated in an attractive log cabin style building and offers some private rooms. You might be surprised that in the summer months the cost is $70 a night to stay in a shared 4 to 6 bed dorm room. Private rooms for two people are over $200 or more if you want a private bathroom.  However, this is a bargain compared to other options in Lake Louise.

The Mountaineer Lodge and the Lake Louise Inn would be the mid-range options ranging from $150 a night at the lowest demand time of November up to $500 a night in the peak summer months.

Deer Lodge is a property very close to the lake, just a few minutes walk but it is closed for the next 2 years because it is housing staff from the ski hill due to a fire at their accommodation.

The only accommodation right at Lake Louise is the Fairmont Chateau Hotel which is in the luxury category of pricing. The cheapest basic room is $300 a night in the off season of November and in the summer months expect rooms to be $1500 a night. That won’t even be what’s considered one of their high end rooms.

There’s another property in the village of Lake Louise that’s in the luxury category called the Post Hotel and Spa. Their lowest price is $350 in November and then starting at $700 a night in the summer months.

There’s only a dent of dining options in Lake Louise compared to Banff. Finding low cost places to eat can be a challenge.

Details for budget food have been covered here: Cheap Eats In Lake Louise.

The Town Of Field As An Alternative To Staying in Lake Louise

The small town of Field can be an excellent base in the Rocky Mountains. It’s situated in the center of Yoho National Park allowing easy access to explore the highlights such as Emerald Lake, the Natural Bridge and Takkakaw Falls. Consider it as a cheaper alternative to staying in Lake Louise, it’s just a 15 minute drive west. You can easily visit other areas of Banff National Park from Field, such as Moraine Lake and it has quick access to the Icefields Parkway.

Field doesn’t have a lot of amenities and it’s not the place to be if you are looking for any nightlife. There’s only a couple of places to eat and many of the accommodations are part of a house with access to a full kitchen. The town has an excellent visitor center full of information about the area and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.

Camping In the Rocky Mountains

Camping is one of the cheapest ways to stay in the parks. It’s a great option if you have your own RV or tent. Late May to mid-September is the best time to camp in the Rockies. At the early and later ends of that time frame you need to be prepared for night time and early morning temperatures that can drop below freezing. Snow is always a possibility. The rest of the year you need to be fully equipped for cold weather camping.

From July through early September make sure you have reservations for campgrounds that accept them, especially if you need full hookups for your RV. Information can be found at Parks Canada Camping Reservations.  Backcountry hiking in the parks requires the advance purchase of a wilderness pass. Backcountry campsites and shelters can be reserved up to 3 months in advance. Reservations can be made through the same camping link above.

Show up early in the day for campsites that are first come, first served. The check in time for most campgrounds is 2pm, but it’s probably best to show up around the check out time of 11 am. The campsites will start to fill up for a summer long weekend as early as Thursday night.

If you want to be close to the town of Banff the Tunnel Mountain Campground is the best option. It’s just a few minutes drive or a 15 to 20 minute walk from downtown. It’s also on the local bus route. The Two Jack Lake campground is not too far from town, with more of a wilderness feel to it.

Near the Lake Louise area the Mosquito Creek Campground is a nice option, it’s 24 kms north of Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway (Hwy 93). There’s also a campground in the village of Lake Louise, but be warned if you’re a light sleeper it’s right near the train tracks.

Further up the Icefields Parkway the Wilcox Creek Campground is near the Columbia Icefields. It makes a good base for exploring that area of the park. Closer to Jasper there are the Wapiti and Whistler’s Campgrounds.

Camping equipment can be purchased at places in Calgary such as Canadian Tire or Walmart at fairly reasonable prices. MEC (Mountain Equipment Co-op) tends to have higher prices, but the selection is excellent. Renting camping equipment is possible through Camping Banff. There’s also a Canadian Tire in Canmore.

Renting A Recreational Vehicle In The Canadian Rockies

Renting a recreational vehicle otherwise known as an RV in the Rocky Mountains and anywhere in Canada is generally not a cheaper way to travel as it is in other parts of the world. A rental of an RV in the summer can be anywhere from $200 to $400 a night.

You need to do your research and thoroughly check what the rental includes. There can be extra charges for insurances, bedding and linens, kitchen cookware and propane. Unless you pay for extra mileage, you may be limited to 100 kms a day. That’s not a lot if you plan to explore different areas of the parks. Driving an RV from Calgary to Banff is 120 kms one way. The distance between Banff and Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is 60 to 70 kms each way. The drive from Banff to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway is over 300 km’s one way.

When you start adding on all the extra fees your rental cost can skyrocket. Don’t forget this does not include your fuel or the fees for your camping spots.

If all your looking for is a vehicle that has a bed and basic camping supplies there is a company called Wicked Campers. They have pick up and drop offs available in Calgary and Vancouver. That makes for a great option if you want to do a one way drive between the two destinations. The vans are very compact, but offer everything you need to function for around $90 to $100 per day.

Budget Priced Dining And Drink Options

Besides the accommodation in Banff your dining costs can be your next largest expense. A typical hamburger with fries can be $20 to $25 and higher. Check the daily specials at various restaurants and happy hours and food specials offered in the pubs. As with many things in Banff the word “budget” food is a relative term.

It’s not a complete list, but here are some dining options that are budget to moderately priced or offer regular specials:

Pubs

• Rose and Crown, 202 Banff Avenue – cheaper eats and drinks with a rooftop patio for the summer months and often has live music.
• St. James Gate, 207 Wolf Street – a classic Irish style pub offering hearty food.
• Tommy’s Neighbourhood Pub, 120 Banff Avenue – pub fare at a reasonable price.
• Magpie and Stump, 203 Caribou Street – Mexican/southwestern food and drinks. Check out their happy hour specials.
• Bear Street Tavern, 211 Bear Street – pizza and typical pub fare

Restaurants

• Coyote’s Deli & Grill, 206 Caribou Street – locals love having breakfast here, French toast and huevos rancheros.
• Pad Thai, 110 Banff Avenue at the backside of the Clocktower Mall – tasty Thai food at reasonable prices
• Sushi House Banff, 304 Caribou Street – sushi and dumplings delivered on a train!
• Chaya, 118 Banff Avenue – Japanese noodle and sushi dishes
• The Old Spaghetti Factory, 317 Banff Avenue on the 2^nd level of Cascade Plaza, complete pasta meals at a low price that include bread, soup or salad, ice cream and tea or coffee. The kids meals are the same and very reasonably priced.
• Ramen Arashi 2nd floor #213 Sundance Mall, 215 Banff Ave – Ramen variations and Japanese appetizers.
• Block Kitchen and Bar, 5 Banff Avenue #201 – creative tapa style menu with asian flair
• Eddie Burger Bar, 137 Banff Avenue – very popular place with creative burgers

Fast Food And Take Away

• The Food Court in the lower level of Cascade Plaza, 317 Banff Avenue has various quick food options.
• McDonald’s – 116 Banff Avenue
• Subway, 37 Banff Avenue and in the Cascade Plaza food court
• Tim Horton’s, 100 Gopher Street
• Aardvark Pizza and Sub, 304A Caribou Street– Pizza, poutine and wings. Popular late night spot. 

Café’s/Coffee Shops

The cafes and coffee shops in Banff can be of good value. In many of them you can satisfy your hunger with a sandwich or hearty soup along with the caffeinated beverage of your choice for far less than you would pay at a restaurant. In addition to chain operations like Tim Horton’s and Starbucks, Banff has several locally owned and operated cafes with in house baked breads and pastries and high quality coffee.

For an extensive list see our post on Coffee Shops and Cafes in downtown Banff.

Use Grocery Stores For Self Catering And Picnics

Preparing your own meals can save a lot of money. Skip expensive breakfasts and buffets at your hotel. Buying a couple of cheap bowls, cutlery, a knife and cutting board can go a long way. Many hotel rooms have a small fridge, stock it up with fruit and yogurt, grab a container of milk and cereal. Buy a loaf of bread or bag of buns and deli cheeses and meats to make sandwiches. If you don’t want to make your own you can still save money by purchasing pre-made sandwiches and salads available at the grocery stores. If you’re going to be out sightseeing all day you can pick up a small cooler or insulated bag and fill it with some ice to help keep things cold.

Banff Grocery Stores

Banff has two main grocery stores where you can find most items that you would in a larger city grocery store.

• Nestors – 122 Bear Street
• IGA – 318 Marten Street

The Banff Farmers Market 

The farmers market in Banff is another great place to buy produce and locally made artisan foods, baked goods and fruits and vegetables. From late May to early October, every Wednesday from 10 to 6pm. Located at 110 Bear Street, where it meets up with Buffalo Street.

Lake Louise Grocery Stores

The Village Market, 101 Village Road – Lake Louise has a small grocery market in the Samson strip mall in the village. It has most everything you need to get by in a pinch, but it’s quite expensive and there’s not a lot of variety. Produce and popular grocery items can easily run out of stock in the busy summer months and during holidays. The mall also has a small liquor store.

The Petro Canada gas station in Lake Louise sells some basic grocery items like milk, cheese, cereal and pop and snack foods. Prices tend to be a little better than the market. It’s on 100 Village Road, diagonally across the intersection from the Samson Mall.

Canmore Grocery Stores

The two main grocery stores in Canmore are Safeway and Save On Foods. They are much larger than the ones in Banff and offer more selection.

• Safeway and liquor store – #200-1200 Railway Avenue
• Save On Foods – 950 Railway Avenue

Nutters Everyday Naturals, 900 Railway Avenue – a smaller grocery store offering bulk, natural and organic foods.

Mountain Mercado, 817-8 Street. This is a gourmet market and deli, so it’s not in the budget category. However, if you want to cook yourself a fancy meal or pack a special picnic this is the place to go. It will be cheaper than eating in a fancy restaurant in Canmore or Banff.

The Canmore Mountain Market 

The Canmore Mountain Market Market offers regional and local produce, meats, jam, baked good as well as artisanal goods. It runs every Thursday from 10am to 6pm at the Elevation Place parking lot. 100-700 Railway Avenue

Calgary Grocery Stores

Almost any type of grocery item can be found in Banff and Canmore,  including some gluten free, organic and ethnic food options. Only very hard to find items may need to be sought out in Calgary. The Safeway, Save On Foods, IGA grocery store prices in Banff and Canmore are the same as in Calgary. The cheaper options in Calgary that are not available in Banff and Canmore are the big box stores that offer lower food prices like Superstore and Walmart. There’s also two Costco Warehouses, one in south Calgary and one in the north.

Buying Supplies In Calgary, Canmore And Banff

Calgary is your best bet if you are wanting to pick up any supplies such as camping gear, coolers, plates, cutlery or any other kitchenware or clothing you didn’t bring with you. There’s many sporting good stores like M.E.C. (Mountain Equipment Co-op) and places like Canadian Tire and Walmart that have camping and kitchen wares. Canmore has a Canadian Tire and and Valhalla Pure Outfitters and Banff has Monod Sports.

What Is The Driving Time And Distance For The Icefields Parkway?

The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 N.) is a 232 kilometer mountain pass road running through the heart of Banff and Jasper National Parks. It serves as a connection between the area of Lake Louise and the town of Jasper. According to Google maps it takes approximately 3 hours to drive from one end to the other. However, you would not want to do such an injustice to this magnificent scenic route by driving that quickly.

How Much Time Should I Allow To Experience The Parkway?

It’s unlikely in the midst of a busy summer that you could drive the parkway in 3 hours. There’s a heavy volume of traffic, including recreational vehicles and tour buses. The top driving speed is 90 km/hr but there are places where you have to slow to 50 km/hr. Always keep alert for wildlife that may be near or on the road. 

To really appreciate the parkway you need to take the time to enjoy the scenery and sights. Pack a picnic meal and make a day of it. You’ll have no problem spending 5 to 8 hours to get from one end to the other. There are numerous view-point pullouts, hiking and walking opportunities, waterfalls, lakes and attractions to see along the Icefields Parkway.

The time of year will dictate how many daylight hours you have and therefore how much you can see and do. If you want to do any significant amount of hiking consider spending a night along the way and spread the drive over a two day period. 

What is the Road Like?

It’s a fully paved road with wide shoulders. For passing through such an extreme landscape and two high mountain passes it’s probably a lot better than you would expect. The majority of the road is easy to drive, with only a few areas of steep grade or switchbacks. Large RV’s do not have an issue navigating it.

When Is The Best Time To Drive The Icefields Parkway?

Although the road is open year round, most of the travel on it is done from May to October. The peak time to visit is from June to September, these months offer the best chance of good weather, favorable road conditions and wildlife viewing opportunities. July and August are extremely busy. 

The highlight for many visitors to the Canadian Rocky Mountains is seeing the turquoise waters of the glacier lakes. Due to the extremely high elevation of the popular lakes on the parkway, (such as Peyto Lake) they remain frozen well into the spring, until mid-June or longer.

Winter conditions can occur by early to mid-October and sometimes continues sporadically into the month of May and June. All services on the parkway such as restaurants, accommodation and the only fuel station are closed from November to April. If you want to experience the Athabasca Glacier Ice Explorer Adventure it operates from approximately April to October.

For more help on when to plan your trip see our post on The Best Time To Visit The Canadian Rocky Mountains

What Can I Expect For Weather And Temperature?

You never know what to expect for weather and temperatures in the Rocky Mountains, it highly unpredictable. The weather can change many times throughout the day. The temperature change from midday to evening can be drastic. The higher you go in elevation the colder the temperatures can be. The best way to dress is in layers so you can shed or put on clothing as needed.

From June to September the daily average lows can range from 3C. to 8C. and the average highs from 15c. to 22C. You can experience the whole range of these temperatures during your drive. It could be 15C. in Banff, then 2C. at the Peyto Lake Lookout or at the Columbia Icefields Discovery Center and then back to 15C. near Jasper. 

The spring and fall weather might surprise you, these seasons can still see heavy snowfall. The summer tends to have many dry and sunny days, but you can experience rain and even light snow at higher elevations. Any of the months from November to April can be expected to have temperatures below freezing and snow.

Should I Drive The Parkway In Both Directions?

If you have the time, absolutely. You can stop at places of interest along the way and hit the ones you missed on the way back. The scenery is stunning and different in both directions. You can either make the return trip in one full day or stay for a night or two at either end in Jasper or Lake Louise, returning in the opposite direction. 

Are There Gas Stations And Washrooms On The Icefields Parkway?

Plan accordingly, there is only one gas station on the Icefields Parkway. It is located at the Saskatchewan Crossing. When you reach this area, make sure you fill up if you need to, especially when traveling in the direction of Jasper. It’s at least 150 km’s to the next gas station. If you’re driving the other direction towards Lake Louise it’s approximately 80 km’s. Before you leave the Banff, Lake Louise or Jasper area fill up your tank prior to heading to the parkway. Due to the remote location the fuel at the Saskatchewan Crossing is the highest price in the province.

Full washroom facilities are available at Saskatchewan Crossing and at the Icefields Discovery Center. Almost all other main attraction sites have some type of toilets available. 

Are There Restaurants Or Place To Purchase Food?

It’s highly recommended to bring your own picnic lunch or evening meal. Stop and eat it at one of the many scenic viewpoints. There are only a few food services on the parkway. They are expensive and there can be long lineups in the busy summer months.

• Sunwapta Falls Resort – cafe
• Columbia Icefields Visitor Center – restaurant, grab and go cafe, love it or hate it there’s a Starbuck’s
• Saskatchewan Crossing – restaurant, pub, cafe and a small convenience store
• The Lodge On Bow Lake – a cafe with snacks and drinks

Icefields Parkway Accommodation Options

Accommodation on the Icefields Parkway is limited to keep the environmental impact to a minimum. There are a few campgrounds, hostels and lodges that you can use as a base to further explore the parkway. Most of the accommodation is nothing glamorous. They are expensive due to the cost to run in such an isolated location. There is no accommodation available in the winter on the parkway. Most places are open from May to October, with some open in April. Plan ahead, they all book up quickly for the summer months. 

Hotel And Lodges On The Icefields Parkway

• The Glacier View Inn at the Columbia Icefields Discovery Center
• The Crossing Resort at Saskatchewan Crossing
• Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Resort
• The Lodge on Bow Lake -This is the only accommodation on the parkway that is open in the winter, but only from February to early April. Then they re-open again from June to early October.

There’s a few more accommodations at the very far end of the parkway near Jasper and more accommodations in the town of Jasper and around the Lake Louise area.

Hostels On The Icefields Parkway

The hostels along the parkway are operated by Hostelling International Alberta. Take note that they are considered wilderness hostels, some of them have no running water, showers, flush toilets or electricity. They are Mosquito Creek, Rampart Creek, Hilda Creek, Athabasca Falls and Beauty Creek.

Is There Camping On The Icefields Parkway?

There are campsites along the parkway and most of them operate on a first come, first serve basis. It can be difficult to get a spot in the summer, arrive before noon for the best chance. The sites are at Mosquito Creek, Waterfowl Lakes, Rampart Creek, Wilcox Creek located in the Banff National park section of the parkway. More details can be found here: Parks Canada Banff Camping

On the Jasper National Park section there is the Wilcox Creek, Columbia Icefield, Jonas Creek, Honeymoon Lake, Mount Kerkeslin, Wapiti and Whistlers Campgrounds. More details can be found here: Canada Jasper Camping

Some of the campgrounds have washrooms and running water, others have pit toilets. None of them have power or sewer services for RV’s, so plan to be self-sufficient during your stay.

The campsites closer to the towns of Jasper and Lake Louise are reservable, Expect them to be fully booked in the summer, you need to plan ahead.

Is A Park Pass Required For The Icefields Parkway?

Yes, a national park pass is needed for the Icefields Parkway at all time.s The parkway runs through Banff and Jasper National Parks and is considered a scenic roadway, not an essential transportation route. Even if you drive straight through on the parkway without stopping along the way you need a pass to travel on it. Parks Canada booths are at each end to check for passes.

Read our detailed guide on understanding the parks Canada entry fees for everything you need to know about the National park passes and how and where to purchase them.

Is Self Driving The Best Way To Experience The Icefields Parkway?

Yes, driving your own vehicle or a rental vehicle is the best way to experience everything the parkway has to offer. There’s nothing particularly daunting about the drive. It’s a well constructed and maintained two lane, paved road. 

Vehicle rentals are available at the Calgary or Edmonton airports if that’s how you are arriving. The towns of Banff and Canmore have vehicle rentals and in lesser availability there are rentals in Jasper.

What If I Don’t Want To Drive, Are There Tours Or Buses?

There are tours and shuttle trips that will take you from Banff to Jasper via the parkway. Do your research and try find a company that allows a bit more than a few minutes outside of the bus at the highlight attractions. 

There are bus options from Banff and Lake Louise to Jasper via the parkway. They are simply a mode of transportation with no stops.

Is There Cell Phone Service On The Icefields Parkway?

Expect cell phone service to drop off shortly after you start traveling in either direction on the Icefields Parkway. Don’t expect or rely on having any service for most of the route. The exception is Saskatchewan Crossing when it’s open and their wifi is turned on. 

What Are The Winter Driving Conditions On The Icefields Parkway?

If you do not have experience driving in snow and icy conditions it’s not recommended to drive the Icefields Parkway in the winter. The photos below were taken at the end of March on a drive from Lake Louise to the Bow Summit and the Peyto Lake Lookout. The roads in this section were in a passable condition because there had been no recent snowfall. Although you can see there’s really only a partial clearing of each lane in the first photo. Take a look at the snow piled up on the sides of the road and you can imagine how much has fallen in the months prior.

Summary Of Winter Driving Guidelines For The Icefields Parkway

In the late fall or early spring be prepared that you could encounter full winter driving conditions. From November to April it’s a given, but even in October, May and into June the conditions can range from dry bare pavement to several inches of compact snow and/or icy sections.

Make sure your vehicle has proper winter tires rated for snow and ice. They are mandated by law when traveling on the Icefields Parkway from November 1st to April 1st.

Pack an emergency kit for use in the event that you become stranded due to road conditions or heavy snowfall. Traffic is sparse in the winter and it could be some time before another vehicle comes by that could help. Remember there will likely be no cell phone service to call anyone.

It’s common for sections of the parkway to be closed during extreme weather conditions and with short notice. Closures can be anywhere from a few hours to a full day or days in the case of severe snowstorm. Partial road closures occur at times for avalanche control. Check for closures and weather forecasts right before leaving. Sudden weather changes can occur in the mountains. A snowstorm can come without any warning.

The parkway is not considered an essential transportation route and therefore it does not receive the same priority or level of plowing that the Trans Canada Highway and other main roads do. It’s not salted or cleared down to bare pavement, it remains compact snow throughout most of the winter.

Travel early in the day so that you can reach your destination before dark. The plowing maintenance starts at 7am in the morning and stops at 3:30 pm each day. No plowing is done past that time of day from November to April.

From November through March or into mid-April amenities are closed, this includes the only gas station, restaurants and accommodations on the Icefields Parkway.

For more winter driving information see Parks Canada winter maintenance and safety on the Icefields Parkway. Always check the road conditions right before you go at 511.alberta.ca or dial 511. You can also visit one of the Parks Canada information centers in Banff, Lake Louise or Jasper to get up to date information.

Directions For Accessing The Icefields Parkway

Traveling east on the Trans Canada Highway #1 the access to the parkway will be approximately 15 minutes past the town of Field. It’s just prior to reaching the access for the village of Lake Louise. Watch for the signs that say exit for the Icefields Parkway/Hwy 93N.

From Calgary or Banff – Head west on the Trans Canada Hwy, 3km’s past the access for the village of Lake Louise. Watch for the signs that say exit for The Icefields Parkway/Hwy 93N. The access is 50 minutes from Banff and 2.5 hours from Calgary.

Directions For Getting To Lake Louise, Banff Or Jasper When Exiting Either End Of The Parkway

As you get closer to Jasper end of the parkway there are a variety of accommodations, including Becker Chalets, Wapiti Campground and Jasper House Bungalows. The turn off to Whistlers Mountain and the Jasper Tramway are on the left hand side.

The parkway ends at an intersection. Going straight will take you into the town of Jasper where there is accommodation, shopping, restaurants, the tourist information and the train station. Turning right will take you to the Jasper Park Lodge, Annette and Edith Lakes and Maligne Lake.

At the end near the Lake Louise area you’ll see exit signs to head west to Field (Yoho National Park) or continue straight heading east and it will connect up with the Trans Canada Highway. After a few kilometers you’ll see exit signs for the village of Lake Louise and Lake Louise. Or you can continue east towards Banff which will take approximately 40 minutes, watch for exit signs.

Safety And Respect Of Wildlife Along The Icefields Parkway

Like anywhere else in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, the same rules for safe wildlife viewing apply to the Icefields Parkway. Don’t be one of “those tourists” that ends up on youtube being mocked for an extreme lack of intelligence by trying to take a selfie beside a bear or any wildlife for that matter. It’s incredibly dangerous, could end in fatality and it’s against the law.

Slow down, use caution and give wildlife space when they are alongside the road. Don’t get out of your vehicle. If you’re hiking or walking and see wildlife remember the one bus, two bus rule. Stay one bus length away from large ungulates such as elk, deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats and moose and two bus lengths from bears, wolves and cougars.

See our guide for more information about safe wildlife viewing in the Canadian Rockies

This is a drive that should be done in a leisurely fashion. Devote the better part of a day to the parkway so that you can stop and fully enjoy all the attractions it has to offer. Before traveling this route we suggest you read our valuable tips for driving the Icefields Parkway, especially if you are considering traveling on it during the winter months.

The parkway has views of some of the highest mountains in the Canadian Rockies and over a hundred visible glaciers, one of them is within walking distance of the parkway. There’s access to numerous hiking trails, pristine turquoise lakes, sweeping valleys and waterfalls and it’s one of the best places to see wildlife. Has it sold you yet?

You can take incredible photos right from the Icefields Parkway itself. You don’t even have to get out of your vehicle to enjoy stunning scenery. Many of the scenic views are conveniently located from pullouts or reachable by short walks from the road.

You can’t go wrong driving the parkway in either direction, the scenery is spectacular either way. However, after driving it numerous times we can say it’s a different experience in how you see the mountains and glaciers each way, so don’t hesitate to drive it in both directions if you have the opportunity.

Below the Icefields Parkway is broken up into sections and the highlights of what to see and do are listed for each area. To give a reference point there are distances listed in kilometers from some of the predominant stops between the village of Lake Louise at the south end of the Icefields Parkway to the townsite of Jasper at the nothern end. The total distance between them is 233 km’s. The GPS coordinates are also provided.

Lake Louise to Bow Summit And Peyto Lake

Herbert Lake

Herbert Lake quickly appears at the beginning of the southern end of the parkway and can be seen right along the road. There’s easy parking access. This is a great place for photography at sunrise and sunset. When the water is calm there is a beautiful reflection of Mount Temple. 6 km from Lake Louise village – 227 km from Jasper (51.459620, -116.223061)

Hector Lake

The next body of water is Hector Lake, it’s the largest natural lake in Banff National Park. There’s only a glimpse of the lake viewable from the road. It’s a short hike of just over 2 km’s to reach the lake. 19 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 214 km’s from Jasper

Crowfoot Glacier

At the same area where you get a glimpse of Hector Lake is the first lookout point you will definitely want to stop at. It’s a surreal site to look across at the massive Crowfoot Glacier. This is just a taste of the incredible scenery that is ahead. Try using a telephoto lens to zoom in on some of the interesting features of the glacier. 36 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 197 km’s from Jasper (51.663103, -116.438443) 36 197

Helen Lake Trail

Across the road from the Crowfoot Glacier is the access to Helen Lake Trail. This hike heads into a vast area of alpine meadows that are covered in wildflowers from mid-July to mid-August. Helen Lake is beautiful and from it you can see views of the Crowfoot Glacier and Dolomite Peak.

The hike is 12 km’s round trip with 455 meters of elevation gain, allow approximately 4 hours in total. It’s difficulty level is rated as moderate. More information on the hike can be found here: Helen Lake Dolomite Pass Trail

Bow Lake

Just minutes away is beautiful and massive Bow Lake. The Lodge on Bow Lake sits on its north shore. Their cafe is available to the public to purchase snacks and drinks. It is the only accommodation on the parkway that is open during the winter, but only for a portion of the winter. This is a nice part of the lake to explore, the popular Bow Glacier Trail starts from here. Bow Lake is best photographed from morning to midday and in the evening to sunset. The lake is frozen until approximately mid-June. 37 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 196 km’s from Jasper (51.682188, -116.462030)

Peyto Lake And Bow Summit

The next glacier fed body of water is Peyto Lake. It’s located at the Bow Summit, and yes Peyto Lake really is that blue! This is the highest point of the parkway at 2088 meters or 6850 feet above sea level. If there is a must do stop on the Icefields Parkway, this is it.

Walk up the paved trail to the viewing deck that overlooks the lake and mountain valley. There is a parking area closer to the viewpoint for those with limited mobilities that prevent them from walking the trail. Sunrise or mid-day to mid-afternoon is the best light. A wide angle lens is needed to fully fit everything into frame. 43 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 190 km’s from Jasper (51.719854, -116.494453)

Bow Summit And Peyto Lake To Saskatchewan Crossing

Waterfowl Lakes

Waterfowl Lakes are a set of two pretty lakes that offer nice reflections of the mountains when the water is calm. The light is best at sunrise to mid-morning and again at sunset. The Waterfowl Campground here are rated by many as one of the best on the parkway. 60 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 173 km’s from Jasper (51.832141, -116.614714)

Mistaya Canyon 

Mistaya Canyon is reachable by a short half kilometer trail from the parking area. It’s an incredible sight to see the narrow gorge carved into the limestone through the power of the Mistaya River. Photos are best shot in the morning or when it’s overcast to avoid harsh shadows. 74 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 159 km’s from Jasper (51.949523, -116.712405)

Saskatchewan Crossing

Saskatchewan Crossing is a junction of the North Saskatchewan, Howse and Mistaya rivers. This was an important settlement for over a hundred years, starting in 1807 when fur traders and explorers first travelled through the Rockies into British Columbia. There is a restaurant, accommodation, limited grocery supplies and gift shop. This is the only fuel station on the parkway so make sure you fill up if you need to. 80 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 153 km’s from Jasper

The river plain just south of Saskatchewan Crossing.

Saskatchewan Crossing to the Columbia Icefields

The Weeping Wall

When traveling in the direction towards Jasper, keep a lookout on your right hand side for the Weeping Wall. A series of waterfalls drop more than 100 meters from Cirrus Mountain. The light is best on the wall from mid-day to sunset. If the sun is hitting it just right near the end of the day it creates rainbows. (52.141659, -116.994080) 109 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 124 km’s from Jasper

Panther Falls Bridal Veil Falls

This raven decided he should be the star of the show and have his portrait taken with the Bridal Falls in the background. Bridal Falls can be seen right from the parkway, but to see Panther Falls it requires a short hike through the forest, where you can get close up to the falls. When heading north on the parkway the falls are located at the top of Big Bend, approximately 36 km’s north of Saskatchewan Crossing. 120 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 113 km’s from Jasper (52.180304, -117.057179)

Parker Ridge

The parking lot for the popular Parker Ridge Trail is marked with a sign, approximately 8 km’s south of the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center. This hike is considered one of the best hikes on the parkway because it offers incredible views for minimal effort. It’s just under 5 km’s return trip. It’s rated easy and family friendly. There are some well graded switchbacks for the first while that will get your heart pumping a bit. The reward is a view overlooking the 9 km tongue of the Saskatchewan
Glacier and ice capped peaks, including Mount Athabasca and Hilda Peak. Allow approximately 2 hours in total.

Due to erosion Parks Canada has been closing the Parker Ridge trail from late spring to early summer to protect the fragile tundra. If you plan on doing this trail prior to mid-July check first to see if it is open. 121 km’s from Lake Louise, 112 km’s from Jasper

Wilcox Pass Trail

Hiking the popular Wilcox Pass Trail is a way to get up above the glacier to get a better view of it. During the first part of September the pass displays warm Autumn colours. Bighorn Sheep are commonly seen in the pass as well as Mountain Goats. 127 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 106 km’s from Jasper

Columbia Icefields To Jasper

Keep a lookout for bighorn sheep, elk and mountain goat along this stretch of the parkway.

Columbia Icefields

A definite stop is the Columbia Icefields where there is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world. The foot of the Athabasca Glacier is within walking distance of the parkway.

A 90 minute glacier experience tour is available in a giant 6 wheeled, all terrain Ice Explorer that will take you right onto the glacier. Tickets can be purchased at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center on the opposite side of the road. No reservations are required. Accommodation, a restaurant, gift shop and interpretative exhibit are located at the Icefield Center. Sunrise to mid-day and evening to sunset provides the best lighting for photos. 130 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 103 km’s from Jasper (52.219591, -117.224786)

Tangle Falls

Tangle Falls is located right beside the parkway. It’s 7 km’s north of the Columbia Icefields Discovery Center. When traveling towards Jasper it’s on the right hand side and sneaks up fast from this direction. There’s a small parking area on the opposite side of the road. Layers of water flowing down the rocks make for some beautiful photos. 137 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 96 km’s from Jasper (52.267146, -117.286692)

Stutfield Glacier

The massive Stutfield Glacier is another glacier visible right from the parkway. There is a pullout area to stop and enjoy the view. 139 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 94 km’s from Jasper

Quartzite Boulder Field

The Quartzite Boulder Field is an area with large pink quartzite rocks that border both sides of the road. They are covered in lichen moss. They sit just prior to the mountain range known as the Endless Chain. (52.430778, -117.408035)

Sunwapta Falls

The access road to Sunwapta Falls is located near the Sunwapta Falls Lodge, restaurant and gift shop. Just a few minutes up the road from the lodge is access to Buck Lake, Osprey Lake and Honeymoon Lake. It’s a quick and easy walk to the upper falls and an additional 2 km’s to the get to the lower falls. Most visitors leave after seeing the upper falls, so the lower ones are a great place to escape the crowds when it’s busy. 17 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 54 km’s from Jasper

Kerkeslin Goat Lick

Kerkeslin Goat Lick is approximately 15 minutes north of Sunwapta. Watch for slow to 5o km signs with an image of a goat on it. Mountain goats come to this area to lick the salty mineral deposits. They are often along the roadside or on the road itself, drive with caution.

There is a small parking area on the left side of the road. Follow the short trail up to the lookout area that offers views across the Athabasca River to Mt. Christie, Mt. Brussels and Mt. Fryatt. 196 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 37 km’s from Jasper

Athabasca Falls

Athabasca Falls carries the most water of any rocky mountain river. They only drop 23 meters, but it is a roaring spectacle of power. The falls get very busy in the summer, arrive early or later in the evening to avoid the crowds. Take time to explore around all the trails, there’s a variety of nice photos to be taken. The most popular shot is the rushing falls with Mount Kerkeslin in the background. 203 km’s from Lake Louise Village – 30 km’s from Jasper (52.668966, -117.881713)

Horseshoe Lake

A short and short trail accessed from the parking area takes you to the turquoise blue waters of Horseshoe Lake. It’s approximately 5km’s north of Athabasca Falls and 25 km’s south of Jasper. (52.698223, -117.864759)