A week in Icefield

Icefield Parkway is VERY dog friendly 227 km of mountain road nestled in between Jasper and Lake Louise! There are quite a few lodging options ranging from Hotels to Motels to Campgrounds. We stayed at Aurum Lodge (https://www.aurumlodge.ca/about), they have pet friendly rooms.

The parkway has quite a few stunning lakes, hiking trails and iconic landmarks.

Day 1

If it is a road trip for you, it is a long day drive getting to Icefield Parkway.

If you fly in (and then drive), it is a long day for you too.

So, why not just Rest Up and enjoy the night sky from where you stay and do the checklist.

Day 2 - Peyto Lake

Take the advantage you are staying along or near the Icefield Parkway, that you have the luxury to enjoy the lake in the early morning or late evening (or both) when it's much quieter. You'll take a 15-minute hike on the well-formed trail from carpark to the viewpoint of the lake.

Day 3 - Waterfowl Lakes and Hike

This is my favourite lake in the Icefield. She looks so beautiful and so different in the daylight and sunset.

The short hike between the lakes is flat and easy. If you are lucky, you will have this entire section of the lake to yourself, or share with few admirers.

When the sun sets, watching the colours dancing on the water, with crispy evening air and without the usual crowds, you'll find sunset watching is amazingly relaxing .

p.s.: the hiking trail is dogs friendly.

Day 4 - Columbia Icefield & Panther Falls

I have to say, Columbia Icefield looks way more impressive in winter/spring than in summer.

However, this place is popular for a good reason. You'll see quite a different landscape and a glacier.

Sunwapta Lake at the trailhead carpark is inviting in those warm summer days.

Day 5 - Bow Lake & the Hike

Bow Lake is another popular lake along the Parkway. There are a few hiking trails in this area, you'll get to see different aspects of the lake.

Day 6 - Lake Louise

If you haven't been to Lake Louise, I think you should go take a look. Then you'll be able to decide whether or not "once" is good enough. Lake Louise in summer is extremely busy, be prepared to have a challenge time finding a spot to park.

Day 7 - A lake or Waterfall on your Travel Day

There are 3 directions to travel, north bound towards Jasper, or south bound towards Banff/Golden, or east bound towards Rocky Mountain House. You'll find viewpoints, lakes, waterfalls are in all 3 directions.

For us, it's Abraham Lake.

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