Rocky Mountain Trip Planning: What to Do in Canada’s Rockies
Canada’s Rocky Mountains are truly the ultimate outdoor playground for adventurers and nature lovers! They are magnificent, imposing, and the turquoise waters and towering peaks are often thought of when considering a trip to Canada. With its stunning natural beauty and diverse wildlife, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful wilderness area. From heli-tours over snow-capped mountains to paddling the still waters of Banff’s stunning Moraine Lake, let’s dive into some of the best things to see and do in Canada’s Rockies!
Banff National Park
Gracing countless postcards for the Rockies is the crystal clear, aquamarine Moraine Lake, bordered by the Valley of the Ten Peaks mountain range. An alpine lake fed by glacial melt, Moraine Lake is one of the most visited lakes in the Rockies and for good reason. Its surface is frozen over from October to June, making a paddle on it during the summer months all the more special.
For a jaw-dropping, adrenaline-filled experience, nothing beats a heli-tour over the Canadian Rockies. Soar over the Cline Pass, and glide right by the Cline, Lion, and Lioness glaciers. Touch down on a snowy glacier for a Bailey’s and hot cocoa, or even a snowball fight. For those looking to spend their days skiing or snowboarding on the slopes, there are three ski resorts in the area to choose from: Banff Ski Resort, Lake Louise Ski Resort, and Mount Norquay.
Moraine Lake
If you prefer to take a more relaxed approach, take a soothing dip at Banff Upper Hot Springs to relax and unwind, or take a ride on the Banff Gondola to the Sulphur Mountain summit, where you will discover sweeping scenes of six mountain ranges, the Bow Valley and the charming town of Banff. Once you arrive at the top of the mountain, begin your adventure by strolling the boardwalk to the Cosmic Ray Station and Sanson's Peak and learn about Canada's first national park. Feeling hungry and don’t want to wait until you get back down to town? You can fuel up on grab-and-go fare at Castle Mountain Coffee or enjoy an elegant meal at the award-winning Sky Bistro.
Sulphur Mountain Summit
If you love hiking, Banff will not disappoint as it is home to a vast network of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging multi-day treks. Popular trails include Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, and Plain of Six Glaciers.
No visit to Banff is complete without a stop in the town itself, and a stroll along quaint Banff Ave, with Cascade Mountain looming in the distance. Stroll the shops, imbibe at the Banff Ave Brewing Co., and collect the perfect souvenirs to bring home. If you’re looking for a mouthwatering, soul-satisfying breakfast you’ll want to indulge at Melissa’s MisSteak. Their eggs benny and Swiss Apple Pancake are my absolute favourites! Do yourself a favour and don’t leave Banff before dining at this fabulous restaurant that has been around for over 45 years.
The town of Banff, Alberta
During your time here be prepared to see lots of wildlife! The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elk, moose, bears, and bighorn sheep. Visitors can take guided tours to view wildlife or explore on their own. The elk aren’t shy. You will see them strolling right down the main street! Even though you will see other tourists pushing their luck by getting close to get a great photo, please remember that they are wild animals and are not to be approached.
Nestled in between Banff and Jasper is Lake Louise. This small hamlet is overlooked by the famed Chateau Lake Louise, an iconic Fairmont Resorts property. To enjoy your views with a side of luxury, make a stop at the Chateau for afternoon tea, or a cocktail in the Lakeview Lounge. Lake Louise is also home to the Victoria Glacier, countless turquoise lakes, and ample hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
Chateau Lake Louise
Jasper National Park
Connecting Banff and Jasper National Parks is the Columbia Icefields Parkway, a scenic, jaw-dropping drive of a lifetime, offering access to the Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, and the Weeping Wall.
This is hands-down one of THE most beautiful journeys on the planet! The Icefields Parkway is a 232 km stretch of highway that winds along the Continental Divide through soaring rocky mountain peaks, icefields and vast sweeping valleys. I can’t stress enough how important it is that you make the time to do this drive. It will stand out in your mind for the rest of your life as one of the most incredible drives you’ve ever done. The scenery is unparalleled.
The must-see stop along the Parkway is the Columbia Icefield itself, and the Athabasca Glacier. Catch a ride in an Ice Explorer and venture onto the glacier, or take part in an Ice Walk, complete with an interpretive guide.
Columbia Icefields Parkway
Jasper National Park is a UNESCO-protected world heritage site and is home to countless species of wildlife, including elk, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and bears. An excellent way to view wildlife from a safe distance is with an expert naturalist, aboard a custom photo vehicle. Since you’re in ‘Bear Country’, don’t be surprised if you happen upon a mother tending to her playful cubs.
With over 1,200 km of hiking trails, Jasper National Park is a hiker's paradise. The park offers trails for all levels of hikers, from easy strolls to challenging backcountry treks. Easy walks lead to shimmering lakes, dramatic canyons, and waterfalls – and the best way to cap off this nature-filled excursion is with a boat cruise on the famous (and perfectly aquamarine) Maligne Lake.
Jasper has many lakes and rivers that are perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Visitors can paddle through calm waters while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests. If you’re a fishing enthusiast, you’ve come to the right place, as there is a variety of species of fish here, including trout and whitefish.
Maligne Lake
Final Thoughts
From camping, hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and canoeing in the summer, to skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding, ice-skating, and sleigh rides in the winter, the adventures to be had in Canada’s Rocky Mountains are truly endless. Anyone who has a passion for the outdoors could easily spend a couple of weeks (at least) exploring this vast paradise, where every day is an opportunity to explore, discover, and make memories that will last a lifetime!
If you would like to have your next getaway planned for you, consider joining Wander and Soul’s Travel & Lifestyle Club, where we will craft the perfect one-of-a-kind vacation for you, even if you don’t know exactly what it is that you want yet! Remember, how you travel matters. It’s not just where you go, but how the journey shapes you. Learn more about all the amazing benefits of becoming a member of our Travel & Lifestyle Club here.
