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A Romantic Highway Tour of the Canadian Rockies

Tour of the Canadian Rockies: Banff - Jasper Highway

Previously, we highlighted Banff and Banff National Park. Now let’s take a closer look at 2 areas that are a must-see for any tour of the Canadian Rockies:

  • Icefields Parkway
  • Jasper

Tour of the Canadian Rockies - Icefields Parkway

Heading north from Banff towards Jasper brings you to the Icefields Parkway. Keep in mind that the elevation is over 6000 ft in places, so it can be chilly even in mid-summer. Bring some warm, comfortable outdoor clothing. Also make sure you fill up with gas in Banff before starting out.

If you have the time to do any highway travel on your tour of the Canadian Rockies, this should be it. The Icefields Parkway has to be one of the most spectacular mountain highways anywhere.

Some of the sights to see on this Canadian Rockies adventure include:

  • Jagged peaks
  • Glaciers
  • Waterfalls and lakes
  • Moose, Deer, Elk and Bighorn Sheep

If you’re lucky enough to spot a bear though, keep a safe distance!

You’ll find the best scenery in the area around Sunwapta Pass. This is where Banff and Jasper National Parks meet. Lots of wildlife can be found here, but be careful as you drive through this windy section of highway.

Athabasca Glacier is an immense slab of ice flowing out of the Columbia Icefields. This area is accessible for hiking, and there are guided walks offered by trained tour guides. Or you can hop on the specialized snowcoaches for a slightly more comfortable tour.

After, you can warm up in the Icefield Center, which includes exhibits, a gift shop and a couple cafes.

Next stop on our tour of the Canadian Rockies: Jasper!

Jasper

The town of Jasper lies 230km (143 miles) north of Lake Louise.

Whats the difference between Jasper and Banff? Banff gets more visitors, is a bit bigger, more developed and “touristy”. The average organized motorcoach tour of the Canadian Rockies stops in Banff, but leaves out Jasper. Many areas of Jasper National Park feel a little more secluded.

Here’s some sights and activities for the Jasper National Park area:

  • Mt. Edith Cavell is reachable by car and the scenery will have you speechless! The ˝ mile hike from the parking lot is highly recommended, rewarding you with views of alpine valleys, meadows, glaciers and cliffs.

  • A trip out onto glacier-fed Maligne Lake is a must. You can purchase a scenic cruise, or do it yourself and canoe it. You’ll notice horseback rides and fishing trips are available as well.

  • Not too far out of town on Hwy 16 is Disaster Point Animal Lick (name dates back to tragedies experienced by pioneer travelers in these parts). This is a close as you’ll get to guaranteed sightings of bighorn sheep!

  • If you’re a couple that loves to soak, you will find Miette Hot Springs just right. You’ll find 2 hot pools (104 deg F!) and a colder one, with lockers and towels available.

Have a Fantastic Tour of the Canadian Rockies!

Copyright © 2005 Excellent Romantic Vacations





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