Once upon a time, I lived in the prairies of Alberta where the summers were dry and the winters were so cold that even your eyelashes crystalized if you stood in one place too long.
To bide our time, living in the city of "Deadmonton" (Also referred to at times as Edmonton, Alberta); friends and I would often load into our Ford trucks and hit the road in search of an epic adventure. Camping, snowboarding and hiking are amongst the top things to do only a few hours outside of Edmonton and although the actual city is a drab; nothing beats your first views as you drive up and through the Rocky Mountains.
The Icefields Parkway: Driving along the 232km parkway brings you through the heart of the Rockies where it's common to spot majestic animals such as elk, moose, caribou, bighorn sheep, goats and grizzly bears. It is inevitable that you will pull over just to stare in amazement at the landscape and its surroundings on the way through two of Canada's most treasured national parks.
This is a drive you will remember for a lifetime. Some of the best viewpoints along the parkway include a hike to Helen Lake, the famous Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Glacier Falls and a quick stop giving you a Birdseye view of Peyto Lake.
Jasper National Park
Maligne Lake & Canyon: It is the largest lake in Jasper with gorgeous views of the mountain range sure to take your breath away. The canyon is over 160 feet deep with great hiking up and down with many beautiful locations to take photographs and marvel at the limestone erosion.
Columbia Icefields (Athabasca Glacier): On the border of British Columbia in Jasper National Park, you will find the striking Athabasca Glaciers. Be sure to hike up Wilcox Pass for one of the most breathtaking panoramic views.
Athabasca Falls: If hiking is not your thing, there is a 23m high and 18m wide waterfall-the most powerful in the Canadian Rockies and a popular roadside stop to visit for a leisurely stroll.
Banff National Park
Moraine Lake: This lake sits within the Valley of the Ten Peaks and will be sure to make your jaw drop, and if you make your way to the Rock Pile Viewpoint, you can see the same spectacular view as what used to be featured on the $20 Canadian bill.
Bow Summit: Although many crowds go here, the 6km hike is well worth it. Hike up the mountain for the most spectacular views of the valley below. It is worth every step.
Lake Louise: One of the most iconic spots in all of Banff is Lake Louise, and it's no wonder. Stand in awe and walk around one of the most photographed locations in Banff with its sparkling turquoise waters and magnificent glaciers.
Banff Upper Hot Springs: Soak up some minerals with breathtaking views in Banff National Park's famous hot springs at an elevation of 5,200 feet.
(A Little) Less Touristic
Waterton National Park: On the southwest corner of Alberta, you will find panoramic views of the prairies, mountain-scapes, clear lakes and waterfalls while in the backcountry of Waterton. There is a slew of camping and hiking opportunities here that most travelers seem to miss. Be one of the few that ventures off the beaten path and be rewarded by some of the most captivating views in solitude. To choose the right hike for you, visit mywaterton.ca/do/wat0ce86c54fa5100578
Drumheller Badlands: Famous for its dinosaur bones, it is known as the Dinosaur Capital of the World. Head to Horseshoe Canyon and Hoodoos to feel transported to what feels like a slice of Arizona's landscape.
Hidden Gems
Nordegg: If you're looking to get away from the crowds of Banff and Jasper but are still wanting to be surrounded by the Rockies natural beauty, drive through David Thompson Highway to hit my favorite backcountry spot - Nordegg; A winning choice amongst Albertans. There are great opportunities for backcountry hiking, camping and views that will be sure to stop you in your tracks. Be sure to make a stop at Coliseum Mountain for views high above the tree lines.
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