A GUIDE TO EXPLORING THE CANADIAN ROCKIES

The Canadian Rockies are a massive mountain range stretching across the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia in Canada. It's a part of the North American Cordillera, a vast system of mountain ranges running from Alaska to Mexico. The Canadian Rockies are famous for their stunning scenery, with jagged, ice-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, lush valleys, and diverse wildlife. The region is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is protected within several national and provincial parks. Some of the most popular parks include Banff National Park, Jasper National Park, Yoho National Park, and Kootenay National Park. The Canadian Rockies offer a variety of activities for visitors of all interests, including hiking, biking, camping, fishing, horseback riding, white-water rafting, and skiing. This is a guide to exploring the Canadian Rockies and some of the top attractions in the region.

Banff National Park

Banff National Park is Canada's first national park, established in 1885. It's nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta and is famous for its stunning scenery, with jagged, ice-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and diverse wildlife. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and spans over 6,641 square kilometers (2,564 sq mi)  of mountains, forests, meadows, and glaciers. One of the most iconic lakes in the world, Lake Louise is a must-see for any visitor to Banff. The lake is known for its turquoise water, which is caused by glacial flour carried down from the mountains. Visitors can hike or canoe on the lake, or take a ride on the gondola up to the top of Sulphur Mountain for stunning views. Another beautiful lake in Banff National Park, Moraine Lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and has a unique turquoise color. The lake is a popular spot for hiking, canoeing, and photography. 

Take a ride on the Banff Gondola for stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The gondola takes you up to the top of Sulphur Mountain, where you can find hiking trails, restaurants, and a gift shop.  Johnston Canyon is a popular spot for hiking, with waterfalls, caves, and a stunning canyon. There are two main trails in Johnston Canyon: the Lower Falls Trail and the Upper Falls Trail. The Lower Falls Trail is an easy walk that takes you to the base of the Lower Falls. The Upper Falls Trail is a more challenging hike that takes you to the top of the Upper Falls. Lake Minnewanka is a large lake located north of Banff town. The lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and hiking. There are also several historical sites located around the lake, such as the abandoned ghost town of Minnewanka Landing. Bow Falls is a waterfall located on the Bow River in Banff town. The waterfall is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and photography. If you're looking for an outdoor adventure, Banff National Park is the perfect place to visit. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and variety of activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is a 232-kilometer (144-mile) stretch of highway in Canada that connects Lake Louise in Banff National Park with Jasper in Jasper National Park. It is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world, winding its way through the heart of the Canadian Rockies along the Continental Divide. The drive takes you past towering peaks, glaciers, turquoise lakes, and rushing waterfalls. Keep your eyes peeled for bears, elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and other wildlife along the way. One of the main attractions on Icefields Parkway is The Colombia Icefield, this massive icefield is the source of several glaciers, including the Athabasca Glacier, which you can walk on! There are also companies that offer tours onto the glacier in specially equipped vehicles. Other popular stops on the parkway are The Banff Gondola as well as both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.

Allow plenty of time for your drive so you can stop and enjoy the scenery. There are many pullouts along the way where you can take photos and admire the views. The weather in the mountains can change quickly, so be sure to dress in layers and bring rain gear. There is only one gas station on the Icefields Parkway, so be sure to fill up your tank before you set out. Wildlife is often seen along the Icefields Parkway, so be sure to drive slowly and watch out for animals on the road. There is no cell service on most of the Icefields Parkway, so be sure to let someone know your itinerary before you set out. The Icefields Parkway is a must-see for anyone visiting the Canadian Rockies. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and unique attractions, it is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

Jasper National Park

Recognized for its outstanding natural beauty, Jasper National Park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984, along with other Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks. Jasper National Park holds the title of the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, sprawling over a vast 11,000 square kilometers (4,200 sq mi). Jasper offers a more remote and wild experience. Perfect for those seeking adventure and solitude. The park boasts numerous towering peaks, with Mount Edith Cavell (reaching 11,033 feet) being a particularly stunning example. Maligne Lake, known for its emerald waters and Spirit Island, is a must-see. Explore the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies, offering opportunities for glacier tours and breathtaking views. With an extensive trail network, there's a hike for everyone, from gentle walks to challenging climbs. Immerse yourself in nature under a blanket of stars at one of the park's many campgrounds. Take a wildlife tour or embark on your own adventure to spot park residents. Cruise down the Icefields Parkway, a scenic route renowned for its breathtaking mountain vistas. 

Expect majestic peaks piercing the sky, glaciers clinging to mountaintops, turquoise lakes reflecting the scenery, and cascading waterfalls. Jasper is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for bears, moose, elk, bighorn sheep, and more than 250 species of birds. Keep your eyes peeled for elk, moose, bighorn sheep, bears, and many other creatures roaming freely. Jasper boasts the world's second-largest dark sky preserve, making it a prime location for stargazing and soaking in the Milky Way's brilliance.  Hikers will find an extensive trail network catering to all skill levels. The park offers opportunities for camping, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and even soaking in the natural hot springs at Miette Hot Springs. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Jasper National Park offers an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park, nestled in the Canadian Rockies on the western side of the Continental Divide in British Columbia, lives up to its name. "Yoho" is a Cree word that translates to "wonder and awe," and that perfectly captures the feeling you get when surrounded by the park's dramatic landscapes. Established in 1885, Yoho is one of Canada's oldest national parks, though it's the smallest of the four that lie contiguous to each other in the Canadian Rockies. It's bordered by Kootenay National Park to the south and Banff National Park to the east. A postcard-perfect lake with vibrant turquoise waters, surrounded by towering peaks. There's a scenic walking path around the lake, and you can even rent canoes or paddleboards to explore it from the water.

The second-highest waterfall in Canada, plunging down a staggering 833 feet (254 meters) from the glaciers of the Daly Range. The mist rising from the falls creates rainbows on sunny days. A dramatic mountain pass with a rich history. Trains travel through the area using a series of loops and tunnels, a marvel of engineering. There are viewpoints where you can watch the trains navigate the pass. A limestone arch formed by the erosion of the Kicking Horse River over millions of years. It's a short walk from the Trans-Canada Highway and a fascinating natural wonder. A stunning alpine lake with a limited number of visitors allowed per day to preserve its tranquility. The lake is surrounded by wildflower meadows and offers incredible hiking opportunities. Whether you're looking for a relaxing stroll around Emerald Lake or a challenging hike with breathtaking views, Yoho National Park has something for everyone.  Be sure to check the park website for current information on park conditions, closures, and visitor restrictions, as there's currently a fire ban in effect until further notice.

Kootenay National Park

Kootenay National Park, tucked away in the southeastern corner of British Columbia, Canada, is a land of dramatic beauty and hidden gems. Often overshadowed by its more well-known neighbors like Banff and Jasper, Kootenay offers a quieter and less crowded experience for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the Canadian Rockies' wilderness. Established in 1920, Kootenay National Park encompasses over 1,406 square kilometers (543 sq mi) of mountains, glaciers, valleys, and forests. The park boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, from alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers to ancient cedar forests teeming with wildlife. Rugged mountain peaks pierce the sky, carved by glaciers over millennia. Deep valleys cradle turquoise lakes reflecting the surrounding grandeur. Explore the fascinating underground world of Kootenay's limestone caves. Guided tours are available at Marble Canyon, where you can marvel at stalactites, stalagmites, and other speleothems formations. Keep an eye out for bears, moose, elk, bighorn sheep, and a variety of bird species as you explore the park. 

Soothe your muscles after a day of adventure in the natural hot springs at Radium Hot Springs. Kootenay offers a network of trails suitable for all skill levels, from leisurely family-friendly strolls to challenging backcountry hikes. Some popular options include the Marble Canyon hike, the Kootenay Plains loop, and the Numa Creek Trail. The park is steeped in history, with evidence of indigenous settlements dating back thousands of years. Whether you're a seasoned hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking a peaceful escape surrounded by nature's majesty, Kootenay National Park has something to offer.  Keep in mind that there's currently a fire ban in effect for the entire park until further notice, so be sure to check the park website for the latest information before you go.

 The Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer is a Canadian rail-tour company based in Vancouver that operates luxury scenic trains on four routes. These routes allow passengers to take in the stunning scenery of the Canadian Rockies from the comfort of glass-domed carriages. Routes include Vancouver to Banff and Vancouver to Jasper. The trains are known for their glass-dome cars, which offer passengers panoramic views of the stunning scenery. 

The Rocky Mountaineer is considered a luxurious way to travel through the Canadian Rockies and has been hailed as the gold standard for train travel since its inaugural route in 1990. Passengers can enjoy gourmet meals prepared by onboard chefs, as well as attentive service from the train's staff. Passengers can enjoy gourmet meals prepared by onboard chefs, as well as attentive service from the train's staff. Train travel offers a different perspective on the landscape compared to driving or flying. You can see things you might miss otherwise and appreciate the ever-changing scenery as you journey through the mountains. 

Why Visit the Canadian Rockies

The Canadian Rockies are a majestic mountain range stretching across Alberta and British Columbia, Canada. They are world-renowned for their stunning scenery, offering a plethora of reasons to visit. The Canadian Rockies boast some of the most spectacular landscapes on Earth. Towering snow-capped peaks, glaciers, turquoise lakes, emerald valleys, and cascading waterfalls are just a few of the natural wonders that await you.  Whether you're looking for a panoramic vista or a secluded alpine meadow, the Rockies have something for everyone. The Canadian Rockies are a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, camping, fishing, rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, and white-water rafting are just some of the activities you can enjoy.  There are trails for all skill levels, from gentle strolls through wildflower meadows to challenging climbs that take you above the treeline. The Canadian Rockies are home to various wildlife, including bears, elk, moose, deer, bighorn sheep, wolves, and more. You can spot these animals in their natural habitat while hiking, camping, or taking a wildlife viewing tour.

The Canadian Rockies have a rich history dating back thousands of years. First Nations people have inhabited the region for centuries, and their culture is still evident today. You can learn about the history of the Rockies by visiting museums, historic sites, and cultural centers. The Canadian Rockies are a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. The fresh mountain air, stunning scenery, and abundance of outdoor activities will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. The Canadian Rockies are home to a number of charming towns and villages, such as Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, and Canmore. These towns offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and accommodations, making them a great base for exploring the Rockies.