Driving through the Canadian Rockies feels like flipping through the pages of a nature documentary. Towering mountains, ancient glaciers, turquoise lakes—it’s all real, and it’s absolutely breathtaking. On our recent trip, we explored some of the most iconic spots along the Columbia Icefields Parkway and into Jasper National Park, and honestly, it was one jaw-dropping moment after another.
The adventure started at the Athabasca Glacier, part of the mighty Columbia Icefield. You can actually walk on the glacier (with a guided tour), and it’s an experience like no other—crunching across thousands of years of ice while surrounded by towering peaks. There’s a surreal stillness to it, and the moment you scoop up some ice-cold glacial water to sip? Pure magic.
Just a short drive from the glacier, we stopped at Athabasca Falls, and wow—this place packs a punch. The force of the water surging through the narrow canyon is something you feel in your chest. There are plenty of lookout points, each offering a slightly different perspective, and you can get surprisingly close to the falls.
If there’s one road trip you do in your life, let it be this one. The Icefields Parkway between Lake Louise and Jasper is 143 miles of pure scenic gold. Every twist and turn offers a new photo-worthy moment—glaciers clinging to cliffs, teal-colored rivers, and mountain views that feel straight out of a fantasy novel.
We pulled over at Bow Lake on a whim, and it ended up being one of our favorite stops. The water is unbelievably clear and calm, reflecting the mountains like a mirror. It’s less crowded than some of the other spots, making it a great place to take a peaceful stroll or just sit by the shore and breathe it all in.
Another must-see on the Parkway is Sunwapta Falls. The upper falls are right by the parking lot and are absolutely thunderous, especially during the spring melt. We took a short hike down to the lower falls too—totally worth it for the more secluded views and the sounds of nature all around.
We headed towards Maligne Lake in Jasper Park, and it was everything we’d hoped for. The water is that classic glacial blue, and the views of Spirit Island are iconic for a reason. We took a boat cruise out to the island—calm, scenic, and just the right amount of adventure. It’s one of those places that makes you slow down and just be present.
We wrapped up our trip at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, and it was the perfect way to end the adventure. Nestled right on the edge of a lake with mountain views in every direction, it combines rustic charm with a touch of luxury. We saw elk casually walking across the lawn and spent the evening by the fireplace—honestly, we didn’t want to leave.
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