Icefields parkway canada

The Icefields Parkway in Canada connects Banff and Jasper National Parks over 232 km of spectacular glacial landscapes.

About this subject

The Icefields Parkway, officially designated Highway 93 North, is a 232-kilometer highway that cuts through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, connecting Lake Louise in Banff to Jasper. Opened in 1941, the road was built to boost tourism in the region and is now regarded as one of the most scenic drives on Earth. Along the route, travelers encounter over 100 glaciers, including the massive Athabasca Glacier, part of the Columbia Icefield, the largest icefield in the Rocky Mountains. The parkway also grants access to numerous waterfalls such as Sunwapta and Athabasca Falls, as well as striking turquoise lakes like Peyto Lake and Bow Lake. Wildlife is abundant: grizzly and black bears, elk, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep are frequently spotted. The best time to drive it is between June and September when snow has melted and roads are safer. In winter, sections may close due to extreme weather. The Icefields Parkway is a UNESCO World Heritage site, as it lies within the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Icefields Parkway?

The Icefields Parkway is 232 kilometers long, connecting Lake Louise (Banff) to Jasper in Alberta, Canada.

What can you see along the Icefields Parkway?

The route features glaciers like Athabasca, waterfalls (Sunwapta, Athabasca), lakes (Peyto, Bow), and abundant wildlife such as bears and elk.

What is the best time to drive the Icefields Parkway?

Summer, from June to September, is ideal due to milder weather and snow-free roads. Sections may close in winter.