Amidst its crystalline turquoise lakes, thriving wildlife, and the grandeur of the Canadian Rockies, Banff captured my heart! It’s a haven of unspoiled nature that makes you question if it’s real. Whether you’re stealing a brief moment for exploration or immersing yourself for a complete rejuvenation, here’s my ultimate guide to curating an impeccable Banff itinerary.

Even with time constraints, I urge you to set aside a day to venture along the legendary Icefield Parkway towards Jasper – an experience that’s a league of its own. If your journey extends beyond three days, consider making Jasper your new hub after a day on the parkway. This move rewards you with nature’s marvels and a respite from the crowds that gather closer to Banff.

Having luxuriated in the landscapes of Banff, Yoho, and Jasper National Parks for a fortnight, here are the standout moments that captured my heart!

Crafting Your Banff Adventure Plan

Here’s a top-notch suggestion for exploring the Canadian Rockies: Opt for the Gypsy Guide App! This ingenious app operates via satellite and essentially brings a personal tour guide right to your car seat.

With the ability to track your route, it offers optimal directions and highlights must-see destinations, all accompanied by concise yet insightful commentary on history, geology, and more. It’s truly an incredible tool!

Day	Activities
1	Johnston Canyon hike, explore downtown Canmore or Banff, relax at your accommodation
2	Visit Moraine Lake, hike to Lake Agnes Tea House or Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House, enjoy dinner in Banff
3	Drive the Icefield Parkway, stop at Peyto Lake viewpoint, visit Athabasca Falls, relax at Miette Hot Springs
4	Explore Yoho National Park, visit Takakaw Falls and Natural Bridge, lunch in Field, explore Emerald Lake
5	Hike or explore Edith Cavell, experience Athabasca River Float Trip, dinner at a recommended restaurant
6	Boat excursion at Maligne Lake, hike in Maligne Canyon, visit Jasper SkyTram or relax, dinner at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge or The Raven Bistro
7	Enjoy a relaxing afternoon, final dinner in Jasper, visit Mount Edith Cavell and Angel Glacier

3 Days in Banff

Spend three unforgettable days in Banff, where nature’s grandeur and mountain charm converge. Daytime adventures range from exploring scenic trails, capturing postcard-perfect views, to discovering serene lakes nestled within the Rockies. As the sun dips behind the peaks, Banff’s vibrant culture comes alive with diverse dining, boutique shopping, and a warm mountain-town atmosphere. With a myriad of experiences to relish, a three-day Banff getaway promises a taste of both wilderness and relaxation in this captivating alpine wonderland.

Day 1: Exploring Banff National Park

Nestled as Canada’s oldest national park, Banff National Park unfolds like a forested wonderland, offering a sanctuary to a rich variety of wildlife, from majestic grizzly bears to graceful elk and bighorn sheep.

Begin your journey by embarking on the picturesque Johnston Canyon hike—a fitting initiation into the park’s beauty, catering to all skill levels.

Keep in mind, however, that this trail ranks as Banff’s most sought-after, especially during the bustling months of July and August. To bask in tranquility, set out no later than 8 am. Otherwise, anticipate encountering enthusiastic crowds.

For a leisurely stroll, opt for the paved path leading to Lower Falls along a gentle 1.4-mile round-trip trail, rewarding you with the sight of the falls after around 45 minutes.

This trail boasts one of the park’s most rewarding outcomes for a relatively brief stroll.

As you venture, you’ll traverse bridges paralleling the swift Bow River, culminating in a brief tunnel. Here, the cascading waterfall’s rush is so palpable that you’ll feel the mist grace your face.

Should you desire a more demanding expedition, consider pressing forward to Upper Falls—an ascent of 859 feet over 3.2 miles, requiring approximately two hours.

Alternatively, venture towards the Ink Pots for an even more challenging endeavor. This route spans 7.3 miles round trip and ascends by 2,000 feet. The accomplishment, however, comes with an estimated completion time of about four hours.

Accommodation Selections for Banff and Jasper

When it comes to lodging, two popular options are Canmore and Banff. While Banff is a tad nearer to Lake Louise (about 40 minutes), it tends to have more tourists and slightly higher costs compared to Canmore. During our stay, we chose Canmore, a decision we truly cherished.

Both locales have their merits, but if your budget permits, an incomparable experience awaits at the remarkable Fairmont Château Lake Louise.

For those with over 3 days to spare, consider relocating your base to Jasper on the itinerary’s third day.

Option 1: Canmore

Opt for a charming, pet-friendly two-story condo nestled in downtown Canmore. Your private patio is mere steps away from the inviting outdoor pool and hot tub, and dining options are within walking distance. 

Option 2: Fairmont Château Lake Louise

For an unforgettable stay that can be ticked off your bucket list, indulge in a retreat at the iconic Fairmont Château Lake Louise. This historic gem offers one of the Rockies’ most scenic vistas, early access to canoe rentals, and the opportunity to savor sunrise at Lake Moraine without the lengthy drive.

Jasper: Jasper House Bungalows

Just a quick 5-minute jaunt from downtown Jasper lies our delightful experience at Jasper House, where a riverside cabin became our home for a marvelous 7-night stay. These “mini suites” boast comfortable beds, but the main draw is the breathtaking sight and sound of the mighty Athabasca River right outside your doorstep. Witnessing the sun’s descent behind the majestic peaks is a spectacle to remember. Opt exclusively for a riverside cabin here, as others are encompassed by cement surroundings.

Indulge in relaxation after your Banff National Park hike through a leisurely scenic drive—this region boasts an abundance of breathtaking sights! Our personal favorite is the Lake Minnewanka Loop, a picturesque route that meanders past Lake Minnewanka (where advanced reservations offer boat cruise delights), Two Jack Lake, Cascade Ponds, and guides you back to downtown Banff.

Another captivating drive unfolds just beyond Banff, extending past the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course. On your journey, don’t miss the incredible Bow Falls Viewpoint—it offers an awe-inspiring glimpse of a remarkable waterfall.

Remarkably, this renowned golf course is nestled within the national park itself and provides an excellent opportunity for wildlife spotting. We were fortunate enough to spot a collection of elk relaxing at the forest’s edge here. Interestingly, they seem to enjoy the course’s pristine greens as much as golfers do, keeping the groundskeepers busy maintaining the balance between wildlife habitat and golfer’s paradise.

As you navigate the roads, you’ll likely observe numerous tree trunks devoid of bark. This phenomenon arises from the elk’s persistent habit of rubbing their antlers against the trees, a behavior that leaves pheromones for females and aids in the shedding of the antler velvet.

Culminate this splendid day with a highlight of your Banff journey: Ascend Sulphur Mountain via the gondola, topped off with a remarkable dining experience at Sky Bistro.

When traveling, distinguishing between a bucket-list endeavor and a mere tourist attraction can sometimes be challenging. I confess that I had my doubts when I initially made the reservation. However, it ultimately unfolded as one of our most breathtaking adventures, defying any preconceived notions of a typical tourist spot.

Gondola rides are also available at Lake Louise, Mt. Norquay, Sunshine Meadows, and Jasper. However, among these options, the Banff gondola remains my personal favorite.

To secure your gondola experience, ensure you acquire an advance ticket. (In the bustling summer season, advanced reservations are strongly advised!)

The ascent to the mountain summit takes just 8 minutes, transporting you to a state-of-the-art interpretive center complemented by various dining options.

During your booking process, you’ll be prompted to select both your ascent and descent times. I suggest allocating one to two hours at the summit, depending on your preferences.

Unquestionably, a visit to the rooftop bar and the viewpoints is a must. This vantage point treats you to incredible mountain panoramas and sweeping views of Banff below, making it an experience you won’t want to miss.

Embark on the boardwalks for a brief ascent to Sanson’s Peak, then proceed to Sky Bistro for an exquisite dining experience.

Securing reservations well in advance is essential to secure a spot, and the ensuing experience is unquestionably rewarding.

One of our most delectable meals during our two-week journey was enjoyed at Sky Bistro—encased entirely in glass, offering sweeping mountain vistas in every direction. The memory is etched in my mind!

During the summer, daylight lingers in the Canadian Rockies until around 10 pm, casting a golden hue as you descend via the gondola after a sumptuous dinner—a serene, pine-scented conclusion to the day.

Adjacent to the Banff gondola’s parking lot, you’ll find Banff Upper Hot Springs—an ideal spot for relaxation. Regrettably, finding parking near the hot springs can be challenging during the summer months. Opting for a shuttle from downtown Banff might be more convenient. Alternatively, aim for a visit after 5 pm for better odds of securing parking (note that the hot springs closes at 8 pm).

Navigating Car Rentals in Canada

Here are my top two recommendations:

• Discover Cars offers transparent pricing with no hidden fees, around-the-clock customer service, and the added benefit of free cancellation. They do the legwork by scouring through major rental car companies, saving you the hassle.

• Think of Turo as the Airbnb equivalent for cars. This platform proved a money-saver for us during the pandemic, particularly for our Hawaii rentals when car prices soared to new heights.

Day 2: Exploring Moraine Lake + Tea House Hike

Moraine Lake, a glacial wonder adjacent to Lake Louise, is an absolute must-see! Yet, there’s a significant challenge: During peak summer months, the minuscule parking lot is almost guaranteed to be occupied if you’re visiting during daylight hours.

Here’s a solution: Opt for an arrival time post 7 pm. With daylight lingering until around 10 pm, parking woes cease to exist!

Devoted enthusiasts and photographers often grace this locale as early as 4:30 am, seeking to capture the sun-kissed majesty of these mountains at sunrise—an undeniably breathtaking spectacle. However, even at that early hour, the parking lot might already be at full capacity. Park rangers could potentially have the road blocked, rendering access impossible.

 

For those fervently desiring a sunrise experience, consider arriving even earlier! At different times of the day, your best option is to utilize the shuttle service from Lake Louise. Crucially, securing a date and time reservation via the Parks Canada website is a must. Shuttles fill up quickly during summer, so advance planning is essential.

However, with a confirmed shuttle reservation in hand, the process couldn’t be smoother.

• Start by parking near Lake Louise and then take the shuttle to Moraine Lake, followed by a return trip to Lake Louise. Shuttles operate approximately every half hour throughout the summer;

• Upon your arrival at Moraine Lake, make a beeline for The Rock Pile. A brief, brisk ascent will lead you to the summit, offering an unrivaled perspective of the lake’s beauty;

• While the area boasts numerous captivating hikes, if your goal is to experience both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise within a single day (especially convenient unless you’re lodging at Lake Louise), you might want to consider embarking on one of the teahouse hikes starting from Lake Louise instead;

• Two historic teahouses, namely Lake Agnes Tea House and Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House, await your exploration. Both can be accessed via hikes that commence from the shores of the picturesque Lake Louise. These charming log cabin teahouses have been delighting visitors since 1920!

These teahouses operate without electricity or running water.

Once per season, a lone helicopter delivers essential supplies for each teahouse. Beyond that, all other necessities are transported by the dedicated staff, carried on their backs!

The cuisine at these teahouses isn’t extravagant. Their sandwiches lean toward the basic side. My suggestion? Opt for a comforting cup of tea and a delectable sweet treat.

For the Lake Agnes Tea House, prepare for a 4.6-mile round-trip hike with an elevation gain of 1,427 feet. Allocate around 2 to 3 hours, excluding pauses to admire the Mirror Lake, soak in the valley vistas, and spend time at the teahouse.

As for the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse, anticipate a 9.1-mile round-trip expedition with an elevation gain of 1,929 feet. On average, you should set aside about 4.5 hours to successfully complete this rewarding journey.

My Essential Banff Travel Advice

• Secure Reservations Early: Booking ahead is essential! Finding accommodations and reasonably priced rental cars for a summer Banff trip becomes near-impossible when left to the last minute. Sky Bistro and Lake Louise shuttle reservations, among other popular attractions, also tend to sell out. Strategic planning ensures the best prices and options;

• Wildlife Preservation: Safeguarding Wildlife is paramount. Bears frequently lose their lives due to speeding tourists on the narrow roads, often leading to tragic crossings. Remember to never exit your car or approach wildlife. Beyond personal safety risks, such interactions can have dire consequences for the animals. Such behaviors lead bears to habituate to human presence, potentially causing them to search for food and resulting in their eventual destruction;

• Carry Bear Spray, Skip Bear Bells: Always have bear spray at hand, even though chances of using it are low. In the rare event of needing it, bear spray can save your life. Familiarize yourself with its usage, and carry it accessible on your belt or within easy reach on your backpack. Don’t stash it away! Bear bells, on the other hand, pique bears’ curiosity, so they’re not effective. Speaking loudly while hiking and being in groups are better ways to prevent startling bears, as most would rather avoid encounters;

• Layer Up: Embrace Layers: Locals humorously remark that the Rockies experience four seasons in a day, and they’re right! Our experience taught us that a 100% sunny forecast for Canmore doesn’t preclude a sudden thunderstorm an hour up the road in Lake Louise. Dressing in layers is the key to preparedness;

• Leverage the Gypsy App: As previously mentioned, the Gypsy App is a game-changer. Its impact on your experience goes beyond imagination, making it an indispensable tool.

Conclude this day by indulging in dinner at the exquisite Fairmont Château Lake Louise—an earned reward! Advance reservations are advised. (Alternatively, make the most of the extended daylight hours with a helicopter tour!)

Should your path lead you back to Banff or Canmore, consider a detour to the enchanting Morant’s Curve along the Bow Valley Parkway.

With a bit of luck, you might witness the iconic red Canadian Pacific train elegantly rounding the bend, presenting the perfect opportunity for a timeless photo capture.

Regrettably, the railroad doesn’t share a schedule, making serendipity your guide. Rumor has it that on weekdays, the train makes its passage around the curve approximately once every hour.

Even if the train eludes your sight, the late evening hours present an excellent opportunity for wildlife observation along the Bow Valley Parkway! This extraordinarily scenic route is favored by cyclists and nature enthusiasts alike. From 8 to 9 pm onward, remain watchful for the presence of black bears, grizzlies, elk, bighorn sheep, and wolves—particularly within the stretch nearest to Lake Louise.

Day 3: Journey Along the Icefield Parkway

If today marks your final day in the Canadian Rockies, seize the opportunity to traverse a portion of the remarkable Icefield Parkway. This route has earned recognition from National Geographic as one of the world’s top 10 most breathtaking drives!

However, if you have more days remaining in your itinerary, skip ahead to Day 4 below and explore Yoho National Park instead. Then, on Day 4, set forth on the Icefield Parkway and allocate an extra day later for Jasper. Driving the Icefield Parkway demands an entire day. With limited dining options and just one considerably pricey gas station en route, packing a picnic and filling up your tank in Lake Louise is wise.

Furthermore, anticipate a lack of cell service, so ensure you download your Google map and employ the Gypsy app as your personalized tour companion.

Though the distance between Lake Louise and Jasper is under three hours, countless scenic opportunities arise, from lakes and waterfalls to sweeping vistas—each easily accessible thanks to the Gypsy App.

The prominent attraction for many along this route is the renowned Columbia Icefield, situated nearly two hours from Lake Louise.

• If you’re embarking on a day trip from Canmore, Banff, or Lake Louise, and you intend to explore the Icefield Parkway, it’s advisable to return after visiting the Icefield Visitors Center for a glimpse of the awe-inspiring Athabasca Glacier;

• If you’ve yet to witness a glacier, this is your moment! Unfortunately, the Athabasca Glacier’s volume has diminished by half over the last 125 years, and it continues to lose ice at a rate of 5 meters (16 feet) annually. There are various ways to fully absorb this spectacle. The most favored approach involves booking a bus tour that ventures onto the glacier and allows time for exploration on foot.

Personally, I opted out of this activity due to concerns about crowds, costs, and safety. In 2021, a tragic bus rollover resulted in three fatalities and life-threatening injuries for 14 others. Subsequently, the tour company has reinforced their buses with seatbelts. However, I find myself in the minority. For those intrigued by the tour, reviews and availability can be checked here.

• Upon booking, you can opt for an inclusive visit to the Sky Walk (also available for separate booking). Oddly enough, the Sky Walk is a brief ride away from the Columbia Ice Field, necessitating a separate 5-minute bus journey to access a transparent platform that projects over the canyon. This experience didn’t capture my interest either.

If you’re a seasoned hiker and feel comfortable tackling the elevated altitudes (which can be demanding), you can also secure a private guided hike.

Once again, if you’re traversing the parkway as a day trip from Lake Louise and don’t plan to stay overnight in Jasper, your stop at the Icefield Parkway Visitors Center marks an opportune turning point…unless you’re up for an exceptionally lengthy day!

5 Days in Banff

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Banff National Park over 5 unforgettable days. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff offers a diverse range of activities that showcase its natural splendor. From hiking through picturesque trails to cruising on emerald lakes and indulging in the tranquility of natural hot springs, every day promises a new adventure. Discover iconic landmarks like Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, hike to charming teahouses, and ascend Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views.

Immerse yourself in the serene landscapes, witness wildlife in their natural habitat, and savor delectable meals against breathtaking backdrops. With careful planning, your 5 days in Banff will be a captivating journey through a true wilderness wonderland.

Day 4: Explore Yoho National Park

For those still based in Banff, Canmore, or Lake Louise, today unfolds as the perfect opportunity to venture into the nearby Yoho National Park and explore its prominent attractions. If you’ve equipped yourself with the Gypsy app, navigating the sites will be a breeze!

• Kick off your day with a brief hike leading to the Meeting of the Waters, where the Kicking Horse River merges with the Yoho River;

• After ascending a series of switchbacks from Lake Louise, you’ll descend a short slope on foot to reach this picturesque junction. A captivating contrast in the colors of the two rivers is quite discernible!;

• Next on your agenda is Takakaw Falls. This majestic waterfall plunges an astounding 1,224 feet, truly a sight to behold. From the parking area, you can already catch a glimpse of its magnificence, or opt for a short hike to experience it up close and personal. Moreover, the journey leading to Takakaw Falls offers its own spectacular display of scenery!;

• Continue your journey a bit further to reach Natural Bridge, situated near the quaint town of Field. This remarkable rock formation graces the Kicking Horse River. And here’s the beauty—it’s easily accessible with a mere five-minute stroll from the parking area to multiple captivating viewpoints;

• Following your Natural Bridge adventure, make a delightful pit stop for lunch at the charming Truffle Pigs Bistro or savor a coffee break at The Siding Cafe in the endearing little town of Field. Field, though essentially a one-road town, presents itself as an adorable gem along the Yoho route;

• Last but definitely not least, wrap up your day with a visit to the stunning Emerald Lake! While Lake Louise claims fame as the most renowned lake in the Canadian Rockies, and Peyto Lake astounds with its brilliant blue hue, vying with the dramatic Moraine Lake for scenic splendor, my personal favorite is Emerald Lake.

When we visited earlier in the day, the crowds were thinner, and I was particularly enamored with perusing the historic Emerald Lake Lodge adorned with old black and white photographs. The lodge itself seems like a splendid place to stay!

As you might anticipate, its hue is a rich, deep emerald. Should you arrive here early in the morning, prior to the winds picking up (consider seeing the Yoho sights in reverse order, so you head straight to Emerald Lake first), you’ll be greeted by an utterly remarkable spectacle. The lake transforms into an exquisite mirror, reflecting the vivid blue sky, towering mountain peaks, and fluffy white clouds. Emerald Lake proves an excellent spot to consider renting a canoe for a leisurely hour on the water.

Additionally, allotting just a bit over 1.5 hours, you can embark on the easy and level Emerald Lake Loop trail. While the food at the lodge’s Cilantro Café is moderate (typical burger offerings), securing a table beside the lake is truly worthwhile for the breathtaking view it offers!

Day 5: Travel to Jasper via the Icefield Parkway

If your itinerary boasts a few more days, consider today as the opportune moment to relocate your base to Jasper. Dedicate the entire day to embarking on a journey along the Icefield Parkway. However, make sure to commence your day early!

Among the most awe-inspiring sights along the Icefield Parkway, the remarkable Peyto Lake is situated approximately an hour up the parkway from Lake Louise.

Yet, here’s the catch: should you arrive here during late morning or afterward, particularly in July and August, the lake will be inundated with staggering crowds. The solution? Aim for an early arrival—it’s truly rewarding.

Numerous stops punctuate the parkway. The majority of walks to viewpoints are brief, with a few offering optional lengthier hikes if time permits and you’re inclined to stretch your legs.

Following my favorite halt after Peyto Lake, I encountered the astounding Athabasca Falls, merely half an hour from Jasper. During our visit in mid-July, the glacier melt in the rivers was at its zenith, leading to truly dramatic waterfalls. Athabasca Falls is categorized as a Class 5 waterfall, spanning 151 feet in width and plummeting 79 feet. Its grandeur is undeniable!

7 Days in Banff

While Jasper does welcome its share of visitors during the summer, it retains a wonderfully serene ambiance compared to Banff and Lake Louise. Even during the peak season, we encountered only sporadic fellow hikers, granting us a sense of near-exclusivity in this stunning haven.

As you make your way to town, be on the lookout for elk. Often, you’ll spot them grazing in the vicinity during the evenings. It appears they are aware that predators like bears tend to avoid areas frequented by people, resulting in a relatively secure environment. The Jasper region boasts a plethora of breathtaking hiking trails.

For those with over two days to spare in Jasper, I strongly recommend exploring the Valley of the Five Lakes—a straightforward to moderately challenging 2.9-mile loop encompassing five lakes. Another option is the Old Fort Point trail, offering a moderate 2.3-mile loop with wildflowers and panoramic views.

In Jasper, you’ll also find the Jasper SkyTram, a gondola experience. However, if you’re planning just one gondola ride in the Canadian Rockies, the Sulphur Mountain experience in Banff is my top recommendation!

The Jasper gondola mandates precise timing for tickets and accommodates up to 22 individuals, differing from the Banff gondola, which seats only four per car.

At the summit, you’ll find a petite visitor center and a gift shop. While the options may be limited, you can embark on alpine trails at this elevation, making it a favored choice for certain visitors.

Day 6: Maligne Valley Boat Excursion

Today’s destinations are conveniently clustered within an hour of Jasper. The quintessential experience for the day involves embarking on a boat excursion across the picturesque Maligne Lake, with a destination set for Spirit Island.

You’ll journey 8.7 miles along the expanse of this stunning lake, momentarily docking to disembark and capture photographs of Spirit Island—a minuscule yet iconic gem only accessible via boat.

The entire escapade extends for approximately 90 minutes. It’s essential to note that these cruises predominantly operate during July and August, as the lake often remains frozen in June. To secure your spot, advance booking is highly recommended.

• Additionally, canoe rentals are on offer at Maligne Lake. However, bear in mind that rowing all the way to Spirit Island would consume around three hours of your time! You’ll certainly want to fit in a hike at the nearby Maligne Canyon, either before or after your Maligne Lake Cruise. To reach the Maligne Canyon trailhead, it’s approximately a 35-minute drive back towards Jasper from Maligne Lake. This hike is an absolute must!

Customize your experience to your liking. You can embark on a leisurely walk leading to a viewpoint via the boardwalk and bridge, or opt for one of the various longer loop hikes that encompass significant elevation gains.

Moreover, a popular multi-day hike above the tree line commences here and concludes near Jasper. Yet, the highlight remains the opportunity to traverse the steep gorge, with water cascading into the Maligne River. It’s an unparalleled spot close to Jasper that you shouldn’t miss.

• Once you’ve explored Maligne Canyon and experienced the Maligne Lake Cruise, it’s time to unwind. I suggest making your way directly to Miette Hot Springs up the road—known for being the hottest natural hot springs in the vicinity.

• As you journey, consider a delightful stop at the Folding Mountain Brewery for a meal, featuring excellent burgers and flights of locally brewed beers. No advance reservations are required for a visit to the hot springs, so simply arrive with your bathing suit and towel in hand (or you can opt to rent one on-site).

During our mid-summer visit, we observed a fair crowd; however, the alpine backdrop and the invigorating ice-cold plunge pool easily compensate for it, especially considering the mere $6 USD entrance fee.

If your visit aligns with the evening hours (bear in mind, the hot springs closes at 8 pm), relish the extended drive back to Jasper via the exceptionally scenic Highway 16. This route offers a fantastic opportunity for wildlife spotting! On our journey, we encountered several elk adorned with impressive antler racks.

Day 7: Explore Edith Cavell Hike + Athabasca River Float Trip

Jasper National Park unveils Mount Edith Cavell along the Icefield Parkway, not far from Jasper. Nestled upon its northern façade is the awe-inspiring Angel Glacier!

A remarkable facet lies in the accessibility—you can embark on a brief walk right to its base, where it transforms into a stunning emerald glacial pool. This is yet another of the many natural marvels that you absolutely shouldn’t overlook in the Canadian Rockies.

• For those visiting in late July or August, setting aside time for the 5.1-mile loop known as the Edith Cavell Meadows Trail is well worth it. This trail offers breathtaking vistas and an abundance of wildflowers.

During our mid-July visit, we were greeted by a multitude of wildflowers—vivid red Indian Paintbrush, delicate Bluebells, vibrant wild roses (Alberta’s symbolic flower), elegant Queen Anne’s Lace, cheerful Brown-Eyed Susans, and many more.

However, as the Edith Cavell Meadow Loop remained closed due to substantial snow cover during our mid-July stay, we contentedly embraced the Glacier Trail’s short path (2.6 miles out and back). This trail offers a rewarding experience, with the option to explore the boardwalk leading to the pool at the base of the Angel Glacier—an equally captivating endeavor. If you’ve explored Edith Cavell in the morning, the entirety of the afternoon awaits for a leisurely rafting excursion along the majestic Athabasca River.

• The Athabasca River, the second-largest river in Alberta, bears historical significance as a well-traveled watercourse. During the late 18th century, First Nations peoples established a thriving fur trade along its banks.

Our rafting experience was designed for relaxed enjoyment, ideal for families, and included a few gentle rapids. A quick 20-minute bus ride took us to the raft put-in point, and from there, we embarked on a 60-minute float downstream back to Jasper town.

• As you approach your last evening in Jasper, I have two dinner recommendations to consider. At the very least, consider a visit to the historic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge for a delightful dinner or a relaxing drink. This grand establishment sprawls across more than 700 acres of pristine land, offering a sight to behold. Nearby Beauvert Lake provides an excellent option for a scenic loop hike.

Within the lodge, you’ll find a variety of dining choices. Our own experience led us to Orso Trattoria, a refined dining venue on the premises. While the food was satisfying, I must admit I found it lacking the extraordinary factor for the price.

Our choice was somewhat influenced by the fact that the more casual Great Hall & Emerald Lounge had a wait time of 60 minutes for dinner. Nonetheless, Orso Trattoria boasts a splendid patio overlooking Mildred Lake, making advance reservations a wise decision.

Alternatively, I wholeheartedly endorse a meal at The Raven Bistro located in downtown Jasper. The innovative cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails transform this spot into another memorable culinary highlight of our Canadian Rockies journey.

Conclusion

Exploring the Canadian Rockies over the span of two weeks merely scratches the surface of the vast array of experiences awaiting you! This itinerary, though comprehensive, offers a glimpse into the unparalleled wonders of Banff, Jasper, and Yoho National Parks.

Remember, there’s perpetually room for another journey, ensuring ample opportunity to further immerse yourself in the splendor these regions have to offer. Above all else, prioritize savoring the grandeur and tranquility that pervades this remarkable landscape, instead of hurrying from one attraction to another. Indeed, this realm is unparalleled for reinvigorating your spirit and nurturing a profound sense of renewal.