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National Parks of the Canadian Rockies
Talk about a trifecta of national parks to visit….
🌍 Into the Wild Beauty of the Canadian Rockies
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a postcard, the Canadian Rockies are where that vision comes to life. Straddling the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia, this mountain wonderland is breathtaking. It is home to some of the most jaw-dropping natural beauty on Earth. At the heart of it all are three iconic national parks: Banff, Yoho, and Jasper. Each park offers its own flavor of adventure, tranquility, and untamed charm.
🏞️ Banff is where it all began: Canada’s first national park, and a global symbol of alpine beauty.
🌄 Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Technically within Banff, but worth highlighting on their own. These iconic lakes are must-sees for their surreal colors and dramatic mountain backdrops. Sunrise at Moraine Lake? Pure magic.
💦 Yoho may be smaller, but don’t let size fool you. This hidden gem features towering waterfalls, Tranquil lakes, and ancient fossils.
To read more about spending a day a Yoho National Park, click here
🌌 Jasper, the wildest of the trio, beckons those looking to get off the beaten path. Jasper boasts vast backcountry and an abundance of wildlife. Its skies are so dark they’ve been named a dark-sky preserve.
If you are already exploring Banff and the surrounding areas and have more days to spend, here are a few other noteworthy National Parks and hidden gems to add to your itinerary
🧭 Kootenay National Park– Just south of Yoho, Kootenay offers a quieter experience. It is less traveled with dramatic canyons. You can find hot springs and colorful mineral pools. Don’t miss Marble Canyon or the steamy Radium Hot Springs for a relaxing soak after your hikes.
🏔️ Icefields Parkway– This legendary highway connects Banff and Jasper and is a destination in itself. Along the way, you’ll pass glaciers, turquoise lakes, and epic viewpoints like Peyto Lake and the Columbia Icefield. It’s one of the most scenic drives in the world.
🌲 Canmore, Located just outside Banff National Park, is a charming mountain town. It has a laid-back vibe and great food. You can access beautiful hikes like Ha Ling Peak and Grassi Lakes. It’s perfect for travelers who want a less touristy base.
🛶 Waterton Lakes National Park A bit farther south, this lesser-known park borders Montana’s Glacier National Park. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting stunning lakes, wildflower-filled meadows, and a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path ambiance.
Our Itinerary
What we did: Spent 3 days in Lake Louise Village and did hikes, canoeing, and drove the Icefields Parkway.
Where we stayed: Lake Louise Inn
Days 1 and 5: Travel Days
Day 2: Explore Yoho National Park and Johnston Canyon
Day 3: Drive the Icefields Parkway. Stop at various viewpoints like Lake Peyto, Mistaya Canyon, and the Columbia Icefields. Visit the Athabasca Glacier. Evening -explore Banff downtown
Day 4: Sunrise visit to Lake Moraine with Radventures. Afternoon visit to Lake Louise with Fairview Limousine and hike to Lake Agnes Tea House
Download Itinerary
Download our entire itinerary by clicking here.
Peaks to Palaces 