How to Plan Your Stops on the Icefields Parkway?

Oh, you wanna drive on a road that winds through ancient glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks so dramatic they feel almost unreal. That, my friends, is the Icefields Parkway, often hailed as one of the most scenic drives on the planet. Stretching 232 km (144 miles) through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, connecting Banff and Jasper National Parks, it’s a journey that captivates every visitor. 

Its popularity is no surprise; every bend in the road reveals a new, breathtaking vista, drawing photographers, hikers, and nature lovers from around the globe.

But with so much to see, how do you possibly plan your stops? How long does it really take? Which direction is best? And what are the absolute must-see spots that deserve a place on every Icefields Parkway road trip itinerary?

This guide is your ultimate companion to navigating this iconic Canadian highway. We’ll help you unlock the secrets to a perfectly planned adventure, ensuring you don’t miss a single highlight while preparing you for the off-grid realities of this pristine wilderness.

Key takeaways:

What are the Can’t-Miss Stops on the Icefields Parkway?

While every kilometre of the Icefields Parkway road trip offers a stunning view, certain iconic stops are absolutely essential. To make planning simple, we’ve organized this list as a southbound itinerary, travelling from Jasper to Banff.

Stops in Jasper National Park

• Athabasca Falls: This isn’t the tallest waterfall you’ll see, but its sheer power is astounding. The Athabasca River is funnelled into a narrow gorge, creating a thunderous roar that you can feel as much as hear. An easy, paved trail network offers multiple viewpoints into the canyon that the falls have carved over millennia.
• Sunwapta Falls: Fed by the Athabasca Glacier, Sunwapta Falls is a breathtaking sight, especially in the late spring when meltwater is at its peak. The classic photo is from the bridge, looking down at the picturesque island of trees that splits the river just before it plummets into the canyon below.
• Columbia Icefield & Athabasca Glacier: This is the heart of the Icefields Parkway and an absolute must-do. The massive Columbia Icefield is the largest in the Canadian Rockies, and you can experience its grandeur up close. For free, you can take a short walk to the toe of the Athabasca Glacier to witness its ancient blue ice. For a truly unforgettable experience, book a spot on an Ice Explorer vehicle to drive onto the glacier and walk on it yourself.

Stops in Banff National Park

• Peyto Lake: Prepare to have your breath taken away. After a short, paved walk to the newly renovated viewpoint, you’ll be greeted by the iconic, wolf-shaped outline of Peyto Lake. Its Gatorade-blue colour, a result of glacial rock flour suspended in the water, is so vivid it looks photoshopped. This is arguably the most famous photo opportunity on the entire parkway.
• Bow Lake: Located right beside the highway, Bow Lake is one of the largest and most beautiful lakes on the drive. On a calm day, the reflections of the Crowfoot Glacier and surrounding peaks are picture-perfect. It’s an ideal spot for a picnic, a quick stroll along the shore, or capturing a classic photo of the historic red-roofed lodge against the mountain backdrop.
• Herbert Lake: As one of the first lakes you encounter after leaving the Trans-Canada Highway near Lake Louise, Herbert Lake is a true gem. Because it’s smaller and more sheltered, it’s renowned for its mirror-like reflections, especially on calm mornings. It’s the perfect spot for a peaceful first (or last) stop to capture the serene beauty of the Rockies.

How Does Icefields Parkway Camping Work?

To truly experience the magic of this landscape, you need to stay overnight. Icefields Parkway camping allows you to witness the mountains painted in the soft light of sunrise and sunset, moments that day-trippers will always miss. It transforms a beautiful drive into an unforgettable immersive experience.

But getting a spot requires planning. Here’s what you need to know.

How Do You Get a Campsite?

There are two ways to secure a spot at one of the beautiful Icefield Parkway campgrounds: booking in advance or trying your luck on the day.

Reservations

A few of the most popular campgrounds, like Wilcox Creek (near the Columbia Icefield) and Waterfowl Lakes, are on the Parks Canada Reservation Service. 

Be warned*: these spots are highly competitive. Reservations for the entire summer season often book up within minutes of being released. 

Since the 2025 season is wrapping up, now is the perfect time to start planning for next year. Keep an eye on the Parks Canada website, as reservations for summer 2026 will likely open in early 2026.

First-Come, First-Served (FCFS)

Most campgrounds on the parkway operate on a first-come, first-served basis. This offers more flexibility but requires a strategy. During the peak months of July and August, you should plan to arrive at your desired campground early in the morning—ideally before 11 AM—to claim a spot as other campers are checking out.

What is the “Off-Grid Challenge”?

This is the single most important thing to understand before you go: there are no serviced campsites on the Icefields Parkway.

That means no electricity, no water hookups for RVs, and absolutely no cell service for virtually the entire 232-kilometre drive. You are truly off the grid. While this disconnection is a huge part of the parkway’s charm, it also means you need to be completely self-sufficient. This is where modern gear and a little bit of planning make all the difference.

How Do You Stay Powered on an Off-Grid Road Trip?

In a place with no power grid and no cell service, you need to bring your own reliable power source. Your phone—essential for photos and offline maps—camera batteries, GPS device, and camp lights all need energy, and a simple power bank won’t be enough for a multi-day Icefields Parkway road trip.

This is the modern camper’s dilemma: we want to disconnect from the grid but stay connected to our essential gear. The solution is a portable power station that can handle all your needs and even recharge itself using the sun.

The Ultimate Power Solution: Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2

For a self-sufficient trip along the Parkway, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 is the perfect companion. It’s a complete power system designed for the exact conditions you’ll face. Because it lives in your vehicle, its robust capacity is an asset, not a burden.

You’ve spent the day hiking near the Columbia Icefield and have just settled into your campsite for the night. Instead of rationing power, you plug your devices into the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2.

• Massive Capacity: With a 1070Wh capacity, it holds more than enough energy for your entire trip. You can recharge camera batteries several times, keep multiple phones topped up, run bright camp lights, and even power a laptop to review the day’s amazing photos.
• Versatile Outputs: With three standard AC outlets, a 12V car port, and multiple USB-A and USB-C ports (including a powerful 100W output for fast-charging), you can power everything at once. There’s no need to juggle devices or wait for your turn.
• Endless Solar Power: This is the real game-changer. During the day, connect the power station to Jackery SolarSaga panels. While you’re out exploring, it quietly converts sunlight into stored energy. You return to a fully replenished power station, making it your own personal, silent, and clean smallest electric generator.

Built with a long-lasting LiFePO4 battery rated for 4000 cycles, the Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 is a durable, reliable investment that will power your adventures on the Icefields Parkway and beyond for years to come.

Your Top 5 Icefields Parkway Questions Answered

Even with the best plans, some practical questions always come up. Here are direct answers to the most frequently asked questions about planning an Icefields Parkway road trip.

• How long does the drive really take?

The 232-kilometre drive takes about three to four hours without stopping, but you should budget a full day (8-10 hours) at a minimum.

Rushing the Icefields Parkway is the biggest mistake you can make. A three-hour drive won’t allow you to see more than one or two sights. To properly enjoy the main viewpoints, do a short hike, and have a picnic, you need a full day. To truly immerse yourself in the experience, plan for two or three days, which allows for camping and exploring some of the less-crowded spots.

• Which direction is better: Banff to Jasper or Jasper to Banff?

Both directions are spectacular, but the southbound route from Jasper to Banff offers a slight visual edge.

When you drive south, many of the most dramatic glaciers and mountain ranges are directly in your field of view, creating a stunning sense of reveal as you approach them. However, the northbound journey is still one of the world’s best drives. The best advice is to plan your trip in the direction that makes the most logistical sense for your overall itinerary and not to worry too much about it.

• When is the best time of year to go?

The best time to drive the Icefields Parkway is from late June to mid-September.

This window ensures the road is clear of snow and, most importantly, that the iconic lakes have thawed and are showing off their brilliant turquoise colour. July and August are the busiest months. 

For a great balance of excellent weather, open facilities, and slightly fewer crowds, consider June or September. Planning for early September 2026, for example, is a fantastic way to catch the beginning of the golden larch season while still enjoying summer-like conditions.

• Is there cell service or gas?

Assume you will have NO cell service, and know there is only ONE gas station.

There is virtually no cell service between the towns of Jasper and Lake Louise. Be prepared by downloading offline maps, music, and podcasts before you go. The only gas station is at the Saskatchewan River Crossing, roughly at the halfway point. Be warned, prices here are significantly higher than in town. 

The best practice is simple: start your journey with a full tank of gas from Jasper, Banff, or Lake Louise.

• Do I need a Parks Canada Pass?

Yes, a valid Parks Canada Discovery Pass is mandatory to drive on the Icefields Parkway.

The parkway runs entirely through Jasper and Banff National Parks. You must have a pass for the duration of your stay. You can buy a daily or annual pass online in advance or at the park entry gates. The pass must be displayed on the rearview mirror of your vehicle at all times.

Be Prepared for the Drive of a Lifetime

A journey along the Icefields Parkway is truly an adventure you will remember forever. It’s a drive that rewards preparation. By planning your stops, understanding how to secure a campsite, and respecting the route’s beautiful but remote nature, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth, stress-free, and utterly awe-inspiring experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies.

Being fully prepared means having reliable power to capture every moment and navigate with confidence. Don’t let a dead battery limit your adventure.

To complete your gear list for the ultimate Icefields Parkway road trip, visit Jackery to explore the perfect battery backup for any adventure.