The scenic drive connecting Banff and Jasper lures visitors from around the globe. If you wish to enjoy nature at its most unfiltered form, then the turquoise lakes, rock spires and waterfalls of this driveway needs to be on your upcoming travel itinerary. If you are planning a roadtrip from Banff to Jasper, then you simply can’t miss out on these scenic destinations which you can get along the way. While the distance can be covered within a few hours, we recommend giving it some time.
Here are the spots you need to visit when driving Banff to Jasper..
Herbert Lake
The small Herbert Lake with its calm water offers scenic reflections of Mount Temple. It is the first lake which you will see while driving from Banff to Jasper. You can gaze at the stunningly beautiful waterfront without getting down from your car.
For a closer view its advisable to park your car and take a walk around the lake. The warmer water of Herbert Lake makes it the top spot for swimmers. If you have a camera handy then don’t forget to capture those picturesque frames during sunrise and sunset.
Bow Lake
Bow Lake can stun you with its beautiful aquamarine color during summer months. This creates a stark contrast against the magnificent glaciers of Crowfoot mountain at the backdrop. You can enjoy different views by walking around the lakeshore trail. Adventure enthusiasts can ride a canoe or enjoy a paddleboard ride at Bow Lake. You can engage in a hearty picnic at the benches surrounding Bow Lake.
If you are planning to make a stop, then the Lodge at Bow Lake can wrap you up in comfort with cozy duvets, big fireplace and rustic decor.
You can easily access Bow Lake which is just a thirty-second walk from the parking lot. Here you can find a charming wooden bridge which is perfect for taking pictures against the backdrop of three massive peaks. Numerous restrooms have been built at the parking lot for visitor convenience. If you are hungry then you can visit the Hanging Glacier Café for some sumptuous snacks, coffee and souvenirs.
Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake is a picture perfect spot while driving Banff to Jasper which resembles the silhouette of a wolf or dog. The lake stands at an elevation of 2088 meters and is perfect for photographers who wish to capture scenic frames during sunrise or mid-afternoon. This glacier-fed lake stuns with its ethereal blue water which can be easily accessed from the parking lot. There is a diversion from here for wheelchair-bound visitors and children looking for a less strenuous path.
Its advisable to visit the lake earlier during the day. In this way you can enjoy sunlight twinkling on the water surface. If you want to enjoy nature at its finest sans the crowd then Peyto Lake can be an excellent choice.
Continue to read more spots you need to visit while driving Banff to Jasper..
Waterfowl Lakes
Get ready to enjoy beautiful reflections of the Mount Chephren and Howse Peak at the roadside stop of Waterfowl Lakes. But make sure to visit it early in the morning for enjoying the calm water. Hiking enthusiasts can walk through a 1.4 km long nature trail to Upper Waterfowl Lake to enjoy the wildflowers.
You can sleep under the stars at the Waterfowl Lakes Campground and enjoy amenities like hot running water and flush toilets. Adventure enthusiasts can engage in paddling at Waterfowl Lakes while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding mountains. Camping is available on first come first serve basis.
Tangle Creek Falls
You can make a quick halt at Tangle Creek falls and enjoy the gorgeous view along the road. While going to from Banff to Jasper, you will find its parking lot at the left side of the road. There is a clean toilet at the parking lot to freshen up after a long journey.
You can see this multi-tiered waterfall directly from the highway. This will take just 5 minutes and is a great choice for visitors who aren’t in the mood for a tough hike. For a closer look you can climb down its tiers for a 15 minutes hike. However, you need to be wary of the slippery rocks.
Athabasca Falls
The majestic roar of the Athabasca Falls makes it a sight to behold along the Iceland Parkway. There is a short and well maintained trail from the parking lot that can take you directly to the falls. You can enjoy breath-taking view points along the hiking route.
Clear road signs make it easy to navigate the path ahead. However, you need to be careful while trying to get a closer shot of the river as the rocks are pretty slippery.
Sunwapta Falls
Sunwapta refers to a turbulent river in local language. You can reach it after a 1.3 km hike while enjoying nature’s raw beauty. Both the upper and lower Sunwapta Falls are fed by Athabasca Glacier. You can visit it both during summer and winter months and watch as the water color changes to mirror the hue of the sky.
All these spots are a must while driving Banff to Jasper.
