Drive one of Canada’s most scenic parkways in a private vehicle — visit Bow Lake, Peyto, Athabasca and Sunwapta Falls, and choose optional glacier experiences at the Columbia Icefield. A guide handles logistics so you spend your day looking out the window and onto the ice.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You climb into a private vehicle at first light and the Icefields Parkway unspools ahead — a long, high road of pine and limestone that dares you to look up. Mountains close in, glaciers pinning snow to knife-edged ridgelines; turquoise lakes flash at roadside pullouts. This one-way tour moves deliberately: Bow Lake’s glassy face, the crouched fingers of Crowfoot Glacier, then the broad sweep at Peyto before the Columbia Icefield dominates the horizon.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels — expect short paved or gravel walks and a few steeper viewpoints; stamina for a full-day outing is helpful.
Wildlife
History
The Icefields Parkway was constructed in stages from the 1930s into the 1940s to link Banff and Jasper; Indigenous communities used these watersheds for generations prior to road-building.
Conservation
Stay on designated trails and boardwalks to protect fragile alpine vegetation; consider traveling with certified operators to minimize vehicle impact and follow Leave No Trace practices.
Reserve your spot on the Banff to Jasper One-Way Private Tour sightseeing today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for alpine swings
Temperatures can drop quickly at higher elevations; pack an insulating layer and a waterproof shell even in summer.
Book glacier attractions early
Glacier Adventure and the Skywalk have separate fees and limited capacity — reserve tickets ahead, especially in July–August.
Start early to avoid crowds
Departing at first light reduces parking pressure at popular viewpoints and improves reflections on Bow and Peyto Lakes.
Bring a refillable bottle
Tap glacier water where allowed or refill at the Columbia Icefield Centre to stay hydrated on a long day.
Insulating layer (fleece/down)
Useful for cold winds on high-elevation viewpoints and on the glacier.
Sturdy walking shoes
Trails and boardwalks can be uneven and wet around waterfalls and viewpoints.
Refillable water bottle
Hydration on a long day; many operators allow refills with glacier-fed water at designated stops.
summer
Camera or binoculars
For photographing distant glaciers, wildlife, and detailed views at lookout points.