Fairmont Banff Springs: You don’t need to book a room here to enjoy the many wonders of one of the world’s great mountain resorts — join a guided tour, enjoy a meal, or simply wander through the grand public areas.

Sunshine Meadows: No public road access makes this delightful alpine destination a prime spot for hikers looking to escape the crowds.

Lake Louise: Famous Lake Louise has hypnotized visitors with her beauty for more than 100 years. Rent a canoe from the boathouse for the ultimate lake experience.

Moraine Lake: If anywhere in the Canadian Rockies qualified as a double must-see, it would be this deep-blue body of water surrounded by glaciated peaks. Escape the lakeside crowd by hiking into Larch Valley.

Bow Lake: Although you can soak up this lake’s beauty from the Icefields Parkway, a walk along its northern shoreline early in the morning is a sure way to make the most of this scenic gem.

Peyto Lake: Another one of Banff’s famous lakes. The main difference is the perspective from which it is viewed — a lookout high above its shoreline.

Columbia Icefield: Don’t miss this glacial area at the southern end of Jasper National Park. Take the Ice Explorer tour to get a close-up view of this natural wonder.

Mount Edith Cavell: Although this distinctive peak is visible from various points within Jasper National Park, no vantage point is as memorable as that from its base, reached by a walking trail from the end of a winding access road.

Maligne Lake: The most famous body of water in Jasper National Park, and for good reason — it’s simply stunning. Take a tour boat to Spirit Island or hike the Lake Trail (Mary Schäffer Loop) along the lake’s eastern shore.