Turquoise lakes, majestic mountains, breathtaking valleys and immense icefields—the Canadian Rockies is home to some of the most spectacular untouched wilderness in the world. Composed of several renowned national parks, including Banff, Jasper and Yoho, this awe-inspiring region of Western Canada is best seen on a road trip. Discover amazing deals on guided motorcoach tours that depart from Seattle, Vancouver and Calgary. Beautiful during all seasons, these five amazing attractions in the Canadian Rockies should be on every traveler’s bucket list!

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1. Banff National Park

As Canada’s first National Park, Banff is well-known among travelers for its gorgeous lakes and impressive mountains. Receiving close to four billion visitors each year, it is is the centerpiece of the Canadian Rockies.

Your base of operations for most adventures will be the alpine town of Banff, just an hour from Calgary, which offers a thrilling gondola ride to the top of Mt. Robson, day trips to Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and the soothing Banff Hot Springs. Whether you love hiking, skiing, photography, water-sports or simply relaxing in beautiful places, Banff National Park has something for you!

Must-See Spots: Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Bow Lake

Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, skiing in winter

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2. Johnston Canyon

Whether you’re heading to the Rockies in summer or winter (hint: winter looks amazing!), Johnson Canyon is breathtaking year-round. Formed from years of erosion by the Johnston Creek, the Canyon walls host a fascinating array of rock layers, waterfalls, and trails to wander down.

Located in Banff National Park, Johnston Canyon is included in many guided trips to Banff. If visiting in spring, summer or fall, be sure to take a walk up the canyon to see the Lower and Upper Falls. Along the way, you’ll find many opportunities to stop and admire the deep blue creek and unusual rock formations. If you prefer winter, you can experience snowshoeing, ice walking and ice climbing. The Upper Falls freeze during the cold months and make for a great place to go ice climbing. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s nothing like climbing a frozen waterfall.

Must-See Spots: Lower Falls, Upper Falls

Activities: Hiking, ice climbing, snowshoeing

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3. Jasper National Park

With well over 2,500,000 acres of wilderness, Jasper National Park is the largest park in the Canadian Rockies. It’s also regarded as having the most varied and thriving wildlife population of any Canadian national park.

A bit less traveled than Banff, the park works to preserve the ecosystems of the unique species that live there and minimize human disturbances, which make it a great destination if you’re looking to get lost in peaceful back country. Enjoy a cruise on the tranquil waters of Maligne Lake or hike to the postcard-worthy Athabasca Falls.

Must-See Spots: Maligne Lake, Athabasca Falls, Columbia Icefield

Activities: Scenic drives, glacier tours, stargazing

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4. Columbia Icefield

And, if you’re going to explore Jasper, you can’t miss a trip to Athabasca Glacier, especially since it’s immense (6 km / 3.7 mi) long). One of the “toes” of the Columbia Icefield, Athabasca offers visitors the unique experience of walking across the glacier’s surface.

With the specially designed Ice Explorer bus, you can ride out over the glacier’s surface and get out for a stretch on this amazing natural wonder. If that’s not thrilling enough for you, at the nearby Columbia Discover Center you can step out onto the Glacier Skywalk, a glass walkway akin to the Grand Canyon Skywalk that lets you stand over a 918-foot drop and experience untouched views of the Canadian Rockies. 

Must-See Spots: Athabasca Glacier, Glacier Skywalk

Activities: Ice walking, bus tours, sightseeing

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5. Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park is one of the most accessible of Canada’s parks, making it  an easy escape for nature lovers. Relatively small, you can easily drive through the park and take in its lakes and mountains with a day trip from Banff. Hiking and photo opportunities are ample in this small slice of Canadian wilderness!

Must-See Spots: Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Wapta Falls

Activities: Canoeing, hiking, camping

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6. Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the world, connecting Banff and Jasper National Parks. This 232-kilometer route offers breathtaking views and numerous stops.

Driving along the Icefields Parkway, you’ll encounter turquoise lakes, towering peaks, and glaciers. Some of the most famous stops include Peyto Lake, known for its bright blue color, and Athabasca Glacier, where you can take guided glacier tours. Sunwapta Falls is another highlight, especially during the spring thaw.

Must-See Spots: Peyto Lake, Athabasca Glacier, Sunwapta Falls

Activities: Road trips, photography, hiking

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7. Mount Robson Provincial Park

Home to the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, Mount Robson Provincial Park is a must-visit for mountaineers and hikers. The park offers stunning vistas and challenging trails that attract outdoor enthusiasts from around the world.

The Berg Lake Trail is a premier hiking route that takes you through diverse landscapes, including lush forests, alpine meadows, and rocky terrain, ending at the breathtaking Berg Lake. Emperor Falls, along the trail, provides a dramatic backdrop for photos. Fishing is also popular in Kinney Lake, where you can relax and enjoy the serene environment.

Must-See Spots: Berg Lake, Emperor Falls, Kinney Lake

Activities: Hiking, camping, fishing

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8. Canmore

Just outside Banff National Park, Canmore is a charming town offering a more relaxed pace and stunning mountain views. It’s a great base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty without the crowds.

Canmore Nordic Centre Provincial Park is a popular spot for cross-country skiing and mountain biking. Grassi Lakes, with its clear blue waters and nearby climbing routes, is perfect for a day hike. Quarry Lake is a local favorite for swimming and picnicking during the warmer months.

Must-See Spots: Grassi Lakes, Canmore Nordic Centre, Quarry Lake

Activities: Hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking

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9. Kananaskis Country

Kananaskis Country is a vast area of parks and reserves known for its outdoor recreation opportunities and stunning landscapes. It offers a quieter alternative to the more famous national parks, with plenty of activities to enjoy.

Upper Kananaskis Lake is a beautiful spot for kayaking and fishing, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Highwood Pass, the highest paved pass in Canada, provides access to scenic hiking trails and is a fantastic spot for wildlife viewing. Kananaskis Village offers amenities and is a great starting point for exploring the area.

Must-See Spots: Kananaskis Village, Upper Kananaskis Lake, Highwood Pass

Activities: Hiking, skiing, fishing

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10. Glacier National Park (Canada)

Not to be confused with its American counterpart, Canada’s Glacier National Park offers rugged scenery and less crowded trails. It’s a haven for backcountry enthusiasts looking to experience the wild beauty of the Rockies.

Rogers Pass is a historical area with stunning views and several trailheads leading into the park’s interior. The Illecillewaet Glacier is a must-see, offering a challenging hike with rewarding views of the glacier and surrounding peaks. Bear Creek Falls provides a scenic spot for a shorter, more accessible hike.

Must-See Spots: Rogers Pass, Illecillewaet Glacier, Bear Creek Falls

Activities: Hiking, wildlife viewing, backcountry camping

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Additional Tips for Your Canadian Rockies Vacation

• Best Time to Visit: The Canadian Rockies can be visited year-round, but the best time depends on your activities. Summer (June to August) is ideal for hiking and sightseeing, while winter (December to February) is perfect for skiing and snowboarding.
• Travel Tips: Always check weather conditions and trail updates before heading out. Pack layers and be prepared for sudden changes in weather.

From the Canadian Rockies and Niagara Falls to Yellowstone and Yosemite, North America is home to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural landscapes. From magnificent waterfalls and majestic mountains to sandstone canyons and diverse wildlife—its national parks are brimming with unforgettable wonders. For more outdoor travel ideas, be sure to check out these postcard-worthy places in the United States and Canada.