Icefields Parkway

Completed in 1939, the 230-kilometer (143-mile) Icefields Parkway between Lake Louise [1] and Jasper [2] is one of the most scenic, exciting, and inspiring mountain roads ever built. From Lake Louise, it parallels the Continental Divide, following in the shadow of the highest, most rugged mountains in the Canadian Rockies.

The route can be driven in three hours, but you’ll want to spend at least one day, and probably more, stopping at each of the viewpoints, hiking the trails, watching the abundant wildlife, and just generally enjoying one of the world’s most magnificent landscapes.

Although the road is steep and winding in places, it has a wide shoulder, making it ideal for an extended bike trip. Allow seven days to pedal north from Banff [3] to Jasper [2], staying at hostels or camping along the route. This is the preferable direction to travel by bike because the elevation at the town of Jasper is more than 500 meters (1,640 feet) lower than either Banff or Lake Louise.

Icefields Parkway remains open year-round, although winter brings with it some special considerations. The road is often closed for short periods for avalanche control, so check road conditions in Banff or Lake Louise before setting out. And fill up with gas, because no services are available mid-October–April.