1-Day Icefields Parkway Drive: 5 Best Stops

5 Best Stops on the Icefields Parkway in Summer

The Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the world, stretching 144 miles (232 km) between Banff and Jasper. If you don’t have multiple days to explore, this 1-day drive with 5 must-see stops will give you a taste of its breathtaking landscapes.

In the summer you can expect stunning glacier views, turquoise lakes, and plenty of opportunities to get out and explore. This itinerary is designed for those starting from Banff or Canmore and heading north before looping back, making your final stop closer to home.

We were only in Banff for a few days and had just one day to explore the parkway. Our group really wanted to hike on a glacier and experience it up close, so we dedicated 4 hours of the day to that adventure. We drove straight to Athabasca Glacier and booked our guided glacier hike for the first morning slot. This way, we could enjoy all the stops on the way home at our leisure, and without feeling rushed or risking a missed hike. We were also closest to home at the end of our drive. With the long summer days in Banff, we had plenty of time for all of our stops and still made it back to Canmore by sunset.

All photos in this post were taken by us during our trip to Banff National Park. We love capturing real experiences to give you an authentic look at what to expect.

Affiliate Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services that I’ve genuinely enjoyed and believe will add value to your experience.

Essential Tips for Driving Icefields Parkway

• Best time to start: Early morning for fewer crowds and better wildlife spotting.
• What to bring: Snacks, water, warm layers, bear spray if hiking.
• Gas & restrooms: No gas stations between Lake Louise and Jasper—fill up before starting!
• Wildlife spotting: Keep an eye out for bears, elk, and mountain goats.

1-Day Icefields Parkway Itinerary: 5 Best Stops

For each stop, you’ll find why it’s worth visiting, a personal tip, and any details to help plan your visit.

Stop 1: Athabasca Glacier

• One of the most accessible glaciers in the world, part of the vast Columbia Icefield.
• Walk to the glacier’s edge or book a guided glacier hike for an up-close experience. (minimum age: 10 years).
• Visiting with younger kids? Take the Columbia Ice Explorer & Skywalk Tour, which includes a bus ride onto the glacier for a safe walking experience and access to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.
• Tip: Dress warmly! Even in summer, the area near the glacier is chilly and windy.

Stop 2: Saskatchewan River Crossing (Gas & Ice Cream Break)

• The only place to get gas between Lake Louise and Jasper, making it an essential stop.
• Offers a small shop and a great ice cream stand—perfect for a mid-drive treat.
• Tip: Fill up your tank here and grab a snack before continuing your journey.

Stop 3: Mistaya Canyon

• A short, scenic walk leads to a powerful canyon carved by the Mistaya River.
• The swirling water and dramatic rock formations make for an unforgettable view.
• Tip: Wear sturdy shoes—the rocks can be slippery near the canyon’s edge.

Stop 4: Peyto Lake

• Famous for its wolf-shaped, bright blue waters, this is one of Banff’s most iconic views.
• A short but steep hike leads to the best viewpoint.
• Tip: Visit early for fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos.

Stop 5: Bow Lake

• A peaceful alpine lake surrounded by stunning mountains.
• Great spot for a break, picnic, setting up a hammock by the water, or if you’re brave enough a quick swim in the glacial water!
• Tip: If you have time, take a short walk along the shoreline for different perspectives.

Bonus Stop: Moose Meadows

• A quiet, scenic stop where you may spot wildlife, especially in the early morning or late evening.
• Beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and a great place to stretch your legs.
• Tip: Bring binoculars—you might see moose or elk grazing in the meadow.

Why We Loved Having Only 5 Planned Stops on the Icefields Parkway

One of the best parts of our drive was the freedom to make spontaneous stops along the way. With only five main stops planned, we had plenty of time to pull over whenever we saw something beautiful. Some of our favorite moments came from these unplanned breaks—wandering through quiet meadows and stopping at a river bend that looked like a fjord.

If you’re planning this drive, leave room for those unexpected moments. The Icefields Parkway is full of hidden gems, and some of the best experiences aren’t marked on any map.

Final Thoughts

Driving the Icefields Parkway in a single day gives you a chance to see some of the best landscapes Canada has to offer. While there are countless more stops along the way, this itinerary ensures you experience a mix of glaciers, lakes, and wildlife without feeling rushed.

We used the AllTrails Pro membership to track our hikes and download trail maps for offline navigation in areas without cell service. You can unlock these features with your own AllTrails+ membership here.

Not sure you want to adventure on the Icefields Parkway on your own? You can book a guided tour through Viator below!

If you’re looking for more ideas for a Banff summer trip, check out our guide here. Would you add any other must-see stops? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy Travels!
💛 Michelle