The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Canadian Rockies stretch for 69,498sqmi (180,000sqkm) through British Columbia and Alberta. The region brings in millions of visitors from around the world every year, due to its picturesque views at every turn. Here are some of the most beautiful places to visit in the Canadian Rockies.
The Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway stretches 144mi (232km) and connects Banff and Jasper National Parks. National Geographic has called it one of the world’s most spectacular driving tours, as people can’t help but pull over frequently and explore the many pristine lakes, glaciers, wildlife sightings and valleys along the way. Recommended stops include Peyto Lake and Athabasca Falls.
Banff
One of the most picturesque hotels in the Canadian Rockies is undoubtedly the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. It resembles a European castle, perched high on a hill overlooking the township and surrounded by mountains. The hotel has a golf course, relaxing spa, several restaurants, and is within walking distance of Banff and the Bow River.
This is Lake Louise! Lake Louise is both the name of a town and the most popular lake in the Canadian Rockies. The best part of the glacier-fed Lake Louise is that it’s beautiful no matter what time of year you visit. In winter, the lake freezes over and becomes home to a winter wonderland. In summer, the lake is a turquoise masterpiece and adventure playground for hikers and kayakers.
Wherever you are in the Rockies, expect and be prepared for sudden weather changes, stretches without services and rugged terrain. Thousands of avalanches occur in Canada each year. They happen in all regions of Canada, but are more frequent in the mountains of British Columbia, Yukon and Alberta.
Banff is a resort town in the province of Alberta, located within Banff National Park. On Banff Avenue, the main thoroughfare, boutiques and restaurants mix with château-style hotels and souvenir shops.
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park is gorgeous year-round, but winter is truly a magical time to visit. Summer visit is beautiful but too crowded. Winter visit is also great if you are looking to get away from the crowds and explore the outdoors in the snow.
This is Maligne Canyon area. if you come to Jasper in winter, you won’t want to miss the frozen waterfalls, glacier walks, and stunning views of mountains and hiking in the snow. Maligne Canyon in the winter is simply gorgeous. The river freezes over and you can walk through the slot canyon on what would normally be rushing water. There are hiking trails and you can hike as far as 7km within the area. In winter, the water freezes into towering spirals of ice and snow, around spectacular rock formation.
