The Icefields Parkway
It was a fairly early start for us, up around 7 a.m to catch the bus into town for our day tour along the Icefields Parkway. Due to the devastating fires in Jasper, the tour had been altered, so we would now depart from and return to Banff. That particular morning, we were treated to an incredible sunrise, as the sky was glowing like it was in flames.
Our tour was with Brewster Sightseeing, and soon we were on our way out of Banff towards Lake Louise, our first stop. The coach driver was fantastic, knowledgeable, engaging, and full of fascinating stories. We were especially fortunate to have the front seats, offering us uninterrupted views through the large front windscreen all day long.
As we travelled along the Trans-Canada Highway, the driver pointed out the wildlife overpasses. These are bridges designed to let animals cross safely without venturing onto the road. I’d never seen or even heard of these before, and it really highlights Canada’s deep respect and care for its wildlife. Fencing also runs along much of the route, helping to keep the roads safe for both animals and travellers.
We arrived at Lake Louise around 9 a.m. and took a gentle stroll down to the water’s edge. Visiting this iconic lake had long been on our bucket list, and it was every bit as beautiful as we’d imagined. Even at that early hour, the area was busy. I can only imagine what it must be like in the height of summer. Before long, we were back on the coach and heading north onto the Icefields Parkway, the spectacular highway that links Banff and Jasper National Parks.
Our next stop was Bow Lake, which also offered stunning views of the Crowfoot Glacier. The scenery along this route is beyond words. There are majestic mountain peaks everywhere you look. Travelling the Icefields Parkway is an unforgettable experience, and it’s easy to see why it’s considered one of the world’s most scenic drives. We were fortunate to be visiting in late September, just as the larch trees were turning a brilliant golden yellow. It was exactly what we had hoped to see when we planned this trip, and it didn’t disappoint. The variety of landscapes; glaciers, turquoise lakes, alpine ridges, and sheer canyon walls is staggering. Canada truly is both vast and breathtakingly beautiful.
After a quick stop at the Saskatchewan Crossing, we continued our journey, soaking in the immense Rocky Mountain scenery. Lunch was included as part of the tour and served at the Jasper National Park Visitor Centre. From there, we could already see the Athabasca Glacier, which we would soon be walking on after lunch.
To access the glacier, we transferred to an Ice Explorer, which is a massive, all-wheel-drive vehicle with enormous tyres designed to traverse the ice. Our guide, an energetic Australian, was both entertaining and knowledgeable, and he ensured everyone’s safety as we ventured onto the glacier. Having never walked on a glacier before, we were all excited, wrapped up in winter clothing, as even in September it was cold and very windy. Stepping onto the ice was quite an experience; with the gusty winds, it’s a miracle none of us toppled over! After about ten or fifteen minutes (and a few near-falls), I decided I’d had my fill of glacier walking. It’s one of those experiences I’m thrilled to have done — once!
Our next stop was just a short drive away: the Columbia Icefield Skywalk. This was another highlight. It is a semi-circular, glass-floored walkway that cantilevers out 280 metres above a dramatic gorge. Stepping onto the transparent floor was both thrilling and unnerving, but the views were spectacular.
This marked the furthest point of our journey along the Icefields Parkway, and from there we turned back toward Banff. The drive from the Icefield to Lake Louise takes about two hours, though we made one last unforgettable stop at Peyto Lake. I was completely captivated. I’ve never seen such vivid turquoise water, and the lake’s unique wolf-head shape made it even more memorable. Peyto Lake became my personal favourite sight of the day.
After leaving Peyto Lake, we continued back to Lake Louise to drop off a few passengers before making the final leg to Banff, about 45 minutes away. In total, the tour lasted around ten hours. It was a full and truly magical day. I can’t recommend Brewster Sightseeing highly enough; they were absolutely fabulous.
Tips
- Brewster Sightseeing provided us with an excellent service.
- Wrap up warm when on the glacier walk, and ensure you are wearing footwear with grippy soles.
- Peyto Lake was my highlight- It is stunning.
- The skywalk was excellent and I highly recommend it.
- Don’t forget your camera and spare battery.
Western Canada Grand Tour 