Drive the Icefields Parkway on a five-day private tour that stitches together Jasper and Banff’s top viewpoints — gondolas, glacial overlooks, easy canyon hikes, and iconic lakes. Perfect for travelers who want an outdoors-forward itinerary with private transport and moderate activity.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning light slices along the Icefields Parkway as your private van climbs out of the valley; glaciers glare and the road tightens to a ribbon between peaks. This five-day loop moves from Vancouver to Clearwater, through Jasper’s high valleys and down to Banff’s world-famous lakes, mixing gondola panoramas with easy canyon walks and glacier viewpoints.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with moderate fitness—able to manage short hikes (30–90 minutes), stairs, and multi-hour driving days.
Wildlife
History
Banff and Jasper became national park hubs after the Canadian Pacific Railway and early tourism; the area also sits on traditional territories of Indigenous peoples who traversed these ranges for centuries.
Conservation
Parks Canada enforces strict rules to protect fragile alpine ecosystems—stay on trails, pack out waste, and follow wildlife sighting guidelines to minimize impact.
Reserve your spot on the Rocky Mountains Jasper and Banff Tour 5 day today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for variable mountain weather
Temperatures can swing quickly between valley mornings and alpine afternoons—pack a warm midlayer and a waterproof shell.
Carry snacks and water for long drives
Several driving stretches have limited services; bring refillable bottles and high-energy snacks to stay comfortable between stops.
Keep distance from wildlife
Bears, elk and bighorn sheep are common—observe with binoculars and never approach or feed animals.
Plan early starts for key viewpoints
Arriving early at Lake Louise or Maligne Lake avoids crowds and gives better light for photos.
Waterproof hiking boots
Support and traction for rocky boardwalks and potentially muddy trails.
spring
Insulating midlayer
Keeps you warm at high viewpoints where wind and altitude chill quickly.
fall
Rain shell
Lightweight protection for sudden mountain showers at any season.
summer
Binoculars or telephoto lens
Makes wildlife viewing and glacier details much easier from safe distances.