Icefields parkway canada

The Icefields Parkway in Canada is a 230 km scenic highway between Banff and Jasper, featuring glaciers, turquoise lakes, and wildlife in Banff and Jasper National Parks.

About this subject

The Icefields Parkway, officially part of Highway 93 North, is one of the world's most spectacular drives, cutting through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Opened in 1940, the highway connects Banff and Jasper National Parks, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Over its 230 kilometers, travelers encounter more than 100 ancient glaciers, including the imposing Athabasca Glacier, part of the Columbia Icefield, the largest subarctic ice field in North America. Lakes with intense turquoise hues, such as Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and Banff Lake, owe their color to suspended rock flour. Wildlife is abundant: grizzly and black bears, elk, mountain goats, Dall sheep, and wolves are frequently sighted. Elevation ranges from 1,400 to 2,000 meters, with the highest point at Sunwapta Pass (2,035 meters). Interestingly, the road was built during the Great Depression as a job creation project, and now attracts over 2 million visitors annually. Must-see stops include the Skywalk at the Glacier Discovery Centre, a glass walkway over the Sunwapta Valley, and Athabasca and Sunwapta Falls. The best time to drive it is from June to September, when weather is milder and days are longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Icefields Parkway and how long does it take to drive?

The highway is 230 km long. Without stops, it takes about 3 hours, but it's recommended to allocate a full day to enjoy viewpoints, trails, and attractions like the Athabasca Glacier.

Do you need a pass to drive the Icefields Parkway?

Yes, the road lies within Banff and Jasper National Parks, which require a Park Pass. Daily passes cost around CAD 10 per adult, or you can get the annual Discovery Pass.

What are the main attractions along the Icefields Parkway?

Highlights include the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre (with the Skywalk and glacier tours), Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Athabasca Falls, Sunwapta Falls, and Jasper National Park.