Ultimate guide to the Lake Louise to Jasper road trip

Lake Louise and Jasper are two of the most picturesque destinations in Western Canada. Even the journey from Lake Louise to Jasper is an experience not to be missed for adventurous outdoor lovers.

Driving the Icefields Parkway, which connects Lake Louise and Jasper, is a highlight of any trip to the region.

I myself have had the pleasure of experiencing this breathtaking drive firsthand and can attest to its unparalleled beauty. It was great to tick this experience off my Canada bucket list.

The 232-kilometre highway winds through some of the most scenic landscapes in Canada, offering panoramic views of towering peaks, pristine lakes, and sweeping valleys.

Along the way, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and explore, from hiking to waterfalls and glaciers to viewing wildlife in their natural habitat.

With every turn, the Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Jasper offers a new and awe-inspiring vista, making it an unforgettable journey for any adventurous outdoor lover.

This guide on how to drive Lake Louise to Jasper, or Jasper to Lake Louise, includes how to get to each town by car, by bus, on a private Banff tour and also by rideshare. Grab your hiking boots, pack your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure from Lake Louise to Jasper.

How to get from Lake Louise to Jasper by car

For adventurous travel lovers looking to explore the natural beauty of Western Canada, the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper along the 233-kilometre Icefields Parkway is a must-do experience in the Canadian Rockies.

Passing through Banff National Park and into Jasper National Park, this 3-hour drive offers breathtaking views of some of the best blue lakes near Banff, giant waterfalls, the stunning Columbia ice field, and the Athabasca glacier.

Though the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper is only 3 hours. I highly recommend allowing a full day to complete this drive.

There are so many beautiful places to stop on the Icefields Parkway that you’ll definitely need longer than three hours!

Some of the best places to stop on the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper include the waterfalls on the Icefields Parkway and the numerous turquoise lakes including Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Bow Glacier Falls and others.

Following the road from Lake Louise to Jasper is pretty easy and it’s virtually impossible to get lost. However, I recommend downloading an offline map which can help you see where all the best stops along the drive are.

If you’re visiting from abroad, you may need to rent a car. You can get a rental car from Edmonton Airport or from Calgary International Airport depending on whether you’re driving from Jasper to Lake Louise or Lake Louise to Jasper.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

With its awe-inspiring landscapes and natural wonders, the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper promises to be an unforgettable adventure for any outdoor lover and it’s by far one of my favourite road trips in Canada.

If you want to learn more about what you’re seeing as you drive. This Lake Louise to Jasper road trip audio guide is a great way to do so.

Jasper to Lake Louise Bus

If you’re an adventurous travel lover looking to experience the stunning views of the Lake Louise to Jasper road trip without the hassle of driving, then travelling by bus is a great option for you. 

Perhaps you’re not able to drive, or don’t want to deal with having to drive on the other side of the road, paying for car rental or insurance. If so, then getting the bus from Lake Louise to Jasper could solve your problems.

The downside to getting a bus is that you can’t get off whenever you want to soak in the views. If that’s important to you but you don’t want to do the driving yourself, you may want to consider taking a guided tour bus from Lake Louise to Jasper instead (see below)

Having said that, one of the main advantages of taking the bus from Lake Louise to Jasper is that you can simply sit back and relax, taking in the breathtaking scenery without the stress of navigating the road. 

When booking tickets online, you can easily choose your pick-up and drop-off locations to arrange a Lake Louise to Jasper bus. 

• Brewster Express: provides pickup service from major hotels in Banff, Lake Louise, Kananaskis Country, or Calgary. Lake Louise to Jasper only runs from May to October.
• SunDog Tours: offers private transportation options from minivans to sedans. Prices depend on the size of your group.

Jasper to Lake Louise by Private Transfer

If you are unable or unwilling to drive from Lake Louise to Jasper, consider a private transfer. Private transfers can be a comfortable and relaxing way to travel from Lake Louise to Jasper and some of them offer you the flexibility of stopping off to view the sights.

You can sit back in the comfort of a private vehicle with an experienced driver behind the wheel and enjoy the ride.

The driver for the recommended private transfers between Jasper and Lake Louise is often a local who can provide commentary throughout the scenic road trip and tell you all about the best places to visit, the best hikes in Lake Louise or Jasper and more. 

• SunDog Tours offers private transfer and add-on sightseeing Lake Louise to Jasper tours or additional stops.

Lake Louise to Jasper tours

There are many benefits to taking a guided tour from Lake Louise to Jasper. First, a guided tour takes the stress out of planning and navigating the journey yourself. This is especially helpful if you’re unfamiliar with the area or don’t feel confident driving in a new place.

Also, a good guide will be able to provide interesting commentary on the sights you’re seeing as you travel from Lake Louise to Jasper. Learning more about the area can really give you a whole new appreciation and this is one of the benefits of taking a guided tour. 

Taking a guided tour can also be a social experience which is great for solo travellers. This can lead to new friendships and connections that you may not have otherwise made. I’ve made some great friends from the guided tours I’ve taken in the past while travelling! 

Furthermore, guided tours from Banff to Lake Louise can be a convenient option if you’re short on time. By taking a tour, you’ll be able to see all the best sights and attractions in the Lake Louise to Jasper region in a single day. This is particularly appealing for those who are on a tight schedule or who want to make the most of their time in the Canadian Rockies.

Some of the best-guided tours from Lake Louise to Jasper are listed below with a bit more information.

Lake Louise to Jasper One-Way Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey from Lake Louise to Jasper as you drive through the stunning wilderness of western Alberta. 

With your knowledgeable guide at the helm, take in the rugged beauty of Banff and Jasper National Parks, with stops at top attractions such as Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, Athabasca Falls, Lake Louise, and the Weeping Wall. 

You’ll get to experience breathtaking views along the Columbia Icefield Parkway as you drive from Lake Louise to Jasper and then enjoy a delicious picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint. 

Take on a Glacier Adventure or the Glacier Skywalk at the Columbia Icefield Centre and then arrive in Jasper later in the day. 

Book this guided tour from Lake Louise to Jasper.

Banff or Lake Louise to Jasper: One-Way Sightseeing Tour

This guided tour adventure from Lake Louise to Jasper begins with your guide picking you up from your accommodation and taking you through Banff National Park and towards Jasper National Park.

You’ll stop at Lake Louise, followed by a journey through the Icefields Parkway with several stops along the way, including Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, Petyo Lake, Saskatchewan Crossing, the Weeping Wall, the Columbia Icefield, and the Athabasca Falls. 

At the Columbia Icefields, you’ll take part in a Glacier adventure on Athabasca Glacier and experience the Glacier Skywalk for views of the Sunwapta Valley. 

The tour includes excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and is designed for optimal guide and passenger interaction with small group sizes.

• Includes: Fully narrated tour, hotel pick-up in Banff or Lake Louise and drop-off in Jasper, the Glacier Adventure and the Glacier SkyWalk, picnic lunch

Book a guided tour from Banff or Lake Louise to Jasper.

From Banff: Icefield Parkway Scenic Tour with Park Entry

This sightseeing tour takes you from Banff and towards Lake Louise before heading up to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway.

The tour’s first destination is Lake Louise, where you can capture stunning photos and appreciate the breathtaking view of the lake and its glacier backdrop. 

Then, it’s on to the Icefield Parkway. You’ll stop at Crowfoot Glacier and you may even seen some wildlife as you’re driven from Lake Louise to Jasper. 

• Includes: hotel pick up/drop off and National Park entry fees

Book this Jasper and Lake Louise tour here.

Jasper to Lake Louise or Banff along the Columbia Icefields

From the beautiful mountain town of Jasper, you’ll drive from Jasper to Lake Louise along the Icefields Parkway. 

Along the way, you will stop several times to appreciate the breathtaking scenery of the region, including Athabasca Falls, the Columbia Icefields, the Weeping Wall, Petyo Lake, Bow Lake, Crowfoot Glacier, Saskatchewan Crossing, and Lake Louise. 

At the Columbia Icefields, you’ll get to take an adventure on the Athabasca Glacier and experience the Glacier Skywalk, which offers sweeping views over the Sunwapta Valley. 

• Includes: Fully narrated tour, hotel pick-up from Jasper and drop-off in Banff or Lake Louise, the Glacier Adventure and Glacier SkyWalk activities, picnic lunch

Book a Jasper to Lake Louise tour

Banff to Jasper one way tour

Experience the natural beauty of western Alberta on a full-day one-way tour from Banff to Jasper with a knowledgeable guide. 

Explore the rugged wilderness of Banff and Jasper National Parks and see top regional attractions such as Crowfoot Glacier, Bow Lake, Athabasca Falls, Lake Louise, and the Weeping Wall. 

At the Columbia Icefield, you’ll have the opportunity to hike to Athabasca Glacier or take in the stunning views over the Sunwapta Valley on the Glacier Skywalk.

Plus, you can gain insight into the region’s geology at the Columbia Icefield Centre. 

Book this Banff to Jasper tour

Icefields Parkway Drive by RV and Campervan

Renting an RV or campervan is a great way to explore the scenic Jasper to Lake Louise drive in the Canadian Rockies. I would know, it’s how we travelled from Jasper to Lake Louise in our self-converted campervan, Elvis!

While you cannot camp outside of designated areas, there are places you can camp along the Icefields Parkway that are ideal for RVs. Plus, having a campervan or RV with you to drive from Lake Louise to Jasper means you can stop off and fix a quick snack if you need.

A campervan is ideal for two people, as it offers a living space in the back and enough room for all your necessary gear. An RV, on the other hand, is larger and more suitable for families or groups. It may be more expensive, but the extra space and comfort can make a big difference.

No matter which option you choose, driving from Lake Louise to Jasper in an RV or campervan is a memorable way to experience the beauty of the Canadian Rockies. 

Some of the best companies to book an RV or campervan with for travelling from Lake Louise to Jasper include the below:

• Outdoorsy
• Escape Campervans

Jasper to Lake Louise by Train

You cannot get the train to Jasper from Lake Louise. There is no train line that runs south of Jasper towards Lake Louise.

Instead, you can take a multi-day train tour which goes from Vancouver to Jasper and then a coach tour from Jasper to Lake Louise and Banff. Or, you can go from Edmonton to Jasper by train and then take the bus tours to Lake Louise.

The two train companies that offer this are ViaRail and the Rocky Mountaineer. ViaRail is more like a public railway offering whereas the Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury experience and is more expensive to reflect this.

Lake Louise to Jasper by ridesharing

For a cheaper and more unique way to travel from Lake Louise to Jasper, you could try ride sharing.

Many locals and other travellers will post their planned trip from Lake Louise to Jasper, or Jasper to Lake Louise, on a website and see if anyone else wants to go that way and can help split costs. 

Ridesharing between Lake Louise and Jasper is a great way to meet new people and save money. You might even be able to get a ride for free!

If you’re looking for a rideshare, start by checking out Facebook groups, Kijiji, and Meetup.com to see if anyone is heading your way. You can also try using ridesharing platforms like Ridesharing.com and Poparide.com, which allow you to choose your driver based on reviews and your luggage requirements.

Things to know when driving from Lake Louise to Jasper

Parks Canada Pass

Before hitting the road, it’s important to purchase a Parks Canada Pass, even if you don’t plan on stopping. You’ll still need it since you’re driving through these two beautiful National Parks in Canada.

The cost of the pass is essential for the maintenance and conservation of the national parks. Fortunately, purchasing a pass is easy and can be done online or at multiple locations in any of the National Parks or visitors centres.

You can get daily and multi-day passes and there’s also the Discovery Pass which covers you for a year and covers all the national parks across Canada. If you’re spending a week or plan to visit more national parks across the country, the Discovery Pas will save you money.

Winter driving from Lake Louise to Jasper

If you’re planning to visit Lake Louise in winter and drive from Lake Louise to Jasper then you’ll need to take some special precautions. The Lake Louise to Jasper road conditions can greatly affect your driving time.

While Icefields Parkway in winter is generally well-maintained, weather conditions can be unpredictable and driving can be hazardous for those without winter driving experience.

To ensure your safety, here are some tips for winter driving in the Canadian Rockies:

• Plan to start your drive early and complete it before sunset; driving is easier in daylight.
• Make sure your vehicle is equipped with snow tires and you have chains available if necessary.
• Fill up your fuel tank in advance, as there are no working gas stations along the Icefields Parkway in winter.
• Carry an emergency safety kit that includes a cell phone, water, non-perishable food, candles, a fire starter, extra clothes, and warm blankets.
• Share your itinerary with someone you trust and keep them updated at least once a day.

Accidents happen every year and sections of the highway can be closed in harsh weather conditions. By following these safety tips, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable journey on this scenic drive from Lake Louise to Jasper. 

Wildlife along the Icefields Parkway

Driving from Lake Louise to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway offers a great opportunity to spot wildlife, including deer, elk, bighorn sheep, moose, and even bears. To increase your chances of spotting wildlife, the best times to look are at dawn and dusk when the animals are most active. While these animals tend to stay away from the highway when there’s a lot of traffic, it’s still possible to catch a glimpse of a bear or other wildlife.

If you see a bear on the highway, it’s important to slow down and view it from your vehicle. Don’t just pull over onto the highway’s shoulder as this can create a traffic jam, unless there’s a parking lot nearby. It’s crucial to respect the animal’s space and not feed it anything or encourage it closer to you.

While the Icefields Parkway is an easy drive, it’s important to manage your speed, as it’s a single-lane road the entire way. If you get stuck behind a slow-moving vehicle, opportunities to overtake are limited. 

Cell coverage along the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper

As you leave Lake Louise behind and venture deeper into the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the signal begins to fade, dwindling away completely after about 20 minutes.

For the majority of the Lake Louise to Jasper drive, you’ll be without cell service, save for a few areas where you might catch a weak signal. These spots include the Columbia Icefields and Saskatchewan River Crossing, but don’t count on them for too long.

Despite the lack of cell service, this stretch of the journey offers a unique opportunity to unplug and disconnect from the outside world. 

Soak up the beauty of your surroundings, revel in the stunning landscapes that surround you, and breathe in the crisp mountain air. Who needs constant phone calls and emails when you’re surrounded by such natural splendor? 

You can get (slow) wifi at the Athabasca Glacier visitor centre if it’s really necessary.

Gas stations from Lake Louise to Jasper

If you’re planning a road trip from Lake Louise to Jasper, it’s important to keep in mind that there’s only one gas station along the entire Icefields Parkway. 

This gas station is located at the Saskatchewan River Crossing, roughly midway between the two destinations. 

While it’s a helpful pit stop if you’re running low on fuel, be aware that the prices are steep compared to other gas stations in the area.

 It’s recommended that you fill up your tank in advance in Jasper, Banff, or Lake Louise to avoid getting stuck without gas during your journey. 

Make sure your tank is completely full before hitting the road, especially during the winter when the gas station is closed. 

14 best stops on the Lake Louise to Jasper drive: Icefields Parkway Itinerary

1. Lake Louise (town and lake)

Since you’re starting your journey here, be sure to experience everything Lake Louise has to offer.

Lake Louise is a must-see destination that offers an array of activities such as hiking, canoeing on Lake Louise, skiing, and sightseeing all within a short drive from the town centre.

Of course, the main attraction is Lake Louise itself.  Known for its mesmerizing milky turquoise color, it is widely considered to be the most beautiful lake in Canada. 

Take a leisurely walk along the lakeshore to soak up the breathtaking views, including the snow-capped Mt. Victoria with its stunning glacier in the backdrop. 

If you’re visiting in winter, you can go ice skating on Lake Louise too which is a super cool experience.

2. Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake in Banff National Park is an incredible lake in Banff that you simply have to visit!

The backdrop to Moraine Lake is incredible. It’s surrounded by the Ten Peaks that tower in the background of the lake. There’s also a beautiful log-cabin-style hotel right on the lake shore, and plenty of stunning hikes and it’s perfect for visiting at sunrise and sunset.

As one of the most beautiful places in Canada to visit, this is one of the things on everyone’s list when they plan to visit Banff.

This stunning Banff lake is so beautiful that it even landed on the Canadian $20 note from 1969 to 1979.

It’s one of the best lakes in Canada and it’s just so pretty! Nothing can compare to the view looking across the lake from the huge rockpile at the parking lot end of the lake and over to the Valley of the Ten Peaks.

This lake gets incredibly busy and now the only way to get to Moraine Lake is by shuttle bus. You must book these tickets in advance (and as early as possible) in order to see Moraine Lake with your own eyes!

As one of the best things to do in Banff National Park, it’s definitely worth the additional faff of having to book the shuttle bus! Alternatively, you could also cycle the road but be prepared for some hill climbs along the way!

You also cannot really visit Moraine Lake in winter. While it is technically possible on cross-country or touring skis you need avalanche and backcountry training and equipment so is not recommended for most people.

If finding a parking spot at Lake Louise is tough, Moraine Lake is even more so, even at sunrise, not to mention that the road from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake is only open from June to mid-October every year (varies depending on weather).

Another option would be to stay at Moraine Lake Lodge. It’s one of the best cabins in Banff National Park when it comes to views, but at about CAD$1,400 a night, it’s the furthest thing for a cheap option!

How to get to Moraine Lake in 2023

• By shuttle bus: The Parks Canada shuttle bus to Moraine Lake runs from June to mid-October and goes every 20 minutes from 6 am to 5.30 pm. You will need to reserve the shuttle bus. More information and reservations are here.
• With Moraine Lake Bus Company: The only sunrise shuttle bus company for Moraine Lake, buses run from 4 am to 6.20 pm. Book tickets here.
• By bike: 25 km round trip at least. Parking at Lake Louise fills up by 7 am so if that’s where you’re planning to park you’ll need to start early. It would be better to start from Lake Louise itself but this adds to the distance.
• By taxi: Commercial vehicles including taxis are still allowed to drive the road. As this is the first year this has been in operation, I do not yet know the prices of a taxi to Moraine Lake. However, I would expect it to be expensive.

3. Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint

Just under 30 minutes into this road trip from Lake Louise to Jasper, you’ll reach the first stop of your road trip: the Crowfoot Glacier Viewpoint. 

To catch a glimpse of this natural wonder, just pull off safely into the designated bay on the road.

From this viewpoint, you’ll be greeted with a breathtaking view of Crowfoot Glacier. Aptly named for its crow’s foot shape, this glacier covers an area of around 1.5 square kilometers. Though the glacier has been receding over the years, making it harder to spot its unique shape, it’s still an impressive sight.

Interestingly, it’s the melt from the glacier that feeds the Bow Lake; the next recommended stop on this scenic drive from Lake Louise to Jasper.

4. Bow Lake

Your next stop, just a short distance from the Crowfoot Glacier, is the Bow Lake Viewpoint.

Like the previous viewpoint, you can see the lake from the pull-over bay on the side of the highway. 

Despite being small by Canadian standards, Bow Lake is incredibly beautiful, with its turquoise waters surrounded by the Canadian Rockies. 

The lake’s colour is especially vibrant in the summer when glacial melt and river runoff turns it a gorgeous blue.

If you visit Bow Lake during the summer, keep an eye out for grizzly bears feeding on the grass near the viewpoint! 

There are some great short walking trails around the lake that lead to more scenic viewpoints. They’re definitely worthwhile.

If you’re not up for driving the entire Icefields Parkway, this particular tour departing from Banff/Lake Louise is a great option that will take you to several stops, including Bow Lake and Crowfoot Glacier!

5. Peyto Lake viewpoint

As you journey along the Icefields Parkway, don’t miss the chance to visit one of Canada’s most stunning lakes and easily one of the best lakes in Alberta: Peyto Lake. 

This picturesque lake is a feast for the eyes, nestled in a deep valley surrounded by towering peaks, and glowing a deep shade of blue. You won’t want to miss the opportunity to snap that picture-perfect Instagram shot from the viewpoint overlooking the lake.

One of the unique features of Peyto Lake is that you can easily access the viewpoint with just a short 10-minute walk from the parking area.

This means you can visit the lake at any time, whether it’s at sunset, sunrise, or even during the nighttime to capture breathtaking astrophotography shots.

One thing to note is that getting a parking spot can be a challenge due to the popularity of this lake. Plan your drive from Lake Louise to Jasper for earlier on in the day so that you don’t have trouble with parking.

6. Mistaya Canyon

One of my favourite things about the drive along the Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Jasper is the amount of beautiful places you can pull over and stretch your legs.

Mistaya Canyon is another of these great spots. It’s a canyon walk, similar to Johnston Canyon and Maligne Canyon, where you can view the river below you as it makes its way, carving the rocks as it goes. 

If you’re visiting in the winter or late spring, be aware that the trail may be slippery due to snow and ice. As always, stay on the marked paths to protect the delicate natural environment. 

7. Weeping Wall

Next up as you drive to Jasper from Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway is the Weeping Wall. 

This 1,000 feet cliff face on the Cirrus Mountain range is a spectacle to behold with its narrow streams of water flowing down the cliff’s face, making it appear as though it’s shedding tears. 

As you pull over to the small bay on your left, take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty of the Weeping Wall. 

If you visit in early summer or late spring you’ll see the streams flowing at their fullest, while winter transforms the water into stunning frozen crystals. 

Whether it’s the tears of summer or the icy crystals of winter, the Weeping Wall is a unique stop on your journey that you won’t want to miss.

8. Big Bend viewpoint

The Big Bend is quite easy to miss until you’re already on it, but the advantage of driving yourself from Lake Louise to Jasper is that you can go back again.

Big Bend is essentially a massive curve in the road and there’s a viewpoint at the top from a viewing area called Big Hill where you can see the amazing mountain views below you. 

Keep in mind that the viewpoint is located on the right side of the road and somewhat on a blind corner, so exercise extreme caution when pulling in and out. 

9. Columbia Icefield /Athabasca Glacier

The Athabasca Glacier is an absolute must-see on your road trip from Lake Louise to Jasper and luckily it’s hard to miss. 

This massive glacier is part of the larger Columbia Icefield. While it has been receding quickly in the last few decades, it’s still incredibly impressive (if not a little sad). 

You can no longer walk on the glacier itself unless you’re part of a tour. These tours are highly recommended as a great way to learn more about glaciers and get up-close to them. I’m personally a bit obsessed with glaciers so think the tours are fascinating. 

The tours depart from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center and offer you the opportunity to ride on a specially adapted ice-explorer vehicle, which drives right up onto the glacier.

You’ll get the chance to walk around on the glacier and even fill up your water bottle with pure glacier water. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss, but book in advance as it’s a popular activity.

For those seeking a more active experience, you can still get up close to the glacier by hiking the Athabasca Glacier Trail. This short 1-kilometer hike takes you right to the edge of the glacier, providing a stunning view. If you want to hike onto the glacier itself, you’ll need to book a glacier hiking tour with a guide.

Lake Louise to Athabasca Glacier is around 1.5 hours of driving over 132 km provided you don’t stop.

10. Skywalk

Another super cool experience as you road trip from Lake Louise to Jasper is to check out the Skywalk.

It’s perfect if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush while visiting Banff National Park. 

This impressive man-made structure hangs off the edge of a mountain and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Don’t worry, it’s strong enough to hold a 747 airplane!

If you’re afraid of heights, walking on the glass floor might be nerve-wracking, but trust me, the stunning views are worth it. 

To get to the Skywalk, first, head to the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre. Once there, you’ll be provided with headphones for an informative audio tour. Allow about 45 minutes for the experience, and when you’re done, the bus will take you back to the Discovery Center so you can continue your journey to Jasper.

To avoid disappointment, it’s best to book your Skywalk tickets online in advance and consider getting a combined ticket for the Skywalk and Athabasca Glacier tour. 

*This is only available in the summer season

11. Sunwapta Falls

As you get closer to Jasper, the attractions along the Icefields Parkway don’t stop.

Sunwapta Falls is a must-see stop along the Icefields Parkway, just 35 minutes away from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center. 

Although smaller than Athabasca Falls, it is still an impressive waterfall with unique rock formations carved by the powerful water in the canyon below. From the bridge and viewpoint, you can take in the breathtaking view of the falls.

This is a quick stop and is an easy and short walk from the parking lot. You can view this waterfall all year round and it’s arguably even better in winter when you can view it once it’s frozen!

12. Athabasca Falls

The natural wonder of Athabasca Falls is highly regarded as one of the top attractions in Jasper since it’s so close to the town.

The power of the Athabasca Falls is simply awe-inspiring and the stunning scenery of the mountains serves as a perfect backdrop for this beautiful Alberta waterfall. Follow the boardwalk trail that takes you to various viewpoints of the falls and witness the immense force of the water.

In the winter months, the falls take on a different kind of beauty, as the freezing temperatures transform the surroundings into a magical winter wonderland. f you’re lucky enough to visit the Canadian Rockies during winter, Athabasca Falls is definitely a must-see.

13. Edith Cavall

A quick drive from Jasper town, Edith Cavell Mountain is a must-visit destination when driving from Lake Louise to Jasper.

This hiking trail offers incredible views of the surrounding valley and mountain peaks and it’s not a super difficult hike either. 

The Path of the Glacier trail, a paved 1.6-kilometre round trip trail from the parking lot, leads to a viewpoint of the glacier and is easily accessible. 

If you’re up for a longer hike, consider trekking the Cavell Meadows trail, one of the best hikes near Jasper. This is a 7-kilometre round trip and takes about 3.5 hours to complete. 

The road to Edith Cavell is narrow with tight switchbacks, making it unsuitable for trailers and large motorhomes. If you have a trailer, you can leave it at the entrance to Cavell Road in a designated area.

14. Jasper in Jasper National Park

Welcome to Jasper! You’ve made it all the way from Lake Louise to Jasper in Jasper National Park.

This mountain town is one of my favourites for many reasons. First, it’s full of breathtaking scenery and a diverse range of activities to enjoy. Plus, Jasper exudes a small-town charm and it’s not as crowded as Banff.

Whenever I’ve visited Jasper I’ve had so much fun (and been lucky enough to see lots of bears too!).

During your trip to Jasper, I highly recommend checking out some of my favourite spots and the best things to do in Jasper. 

• The SkyTram offers a bird’s-eye view of the town and surrounding mountains, and it’s best to book ahead due to the limited capacity. 
• Maligne Lake: with its stunning turquoise-blue water, mountain peaks, pine trees, and glaciers. Taking a cruise on the lake is a great way to experience its beauty and Spirit Island, one of the most photographed spots in Jasper National Park. You can also camp by Spirit Island after kayaking or canoeing down the lake but this is extremely difficult to book.
• Marmot Basin is a must-visit in winter for skiing. There are ski runs for beginners through to advanced skiers and snowboarders.
• Explore downtown Jasper: Walk along Connaught Street and check out the historic train station and unique shops. 
• Go white water rafting in Jasper 
• Explore Pyramid Lake and the boardwalk

Where to stay in Jasper

When it comes to where to stay in Jasper there are a lot of options for Jasper hotels and cabins and cottages as well as camping.

If you’re looking for the best places to stay in Jasper I have a full guide to that and I’ve picked a few of the best options below.

• Best budget accommodation in Jasper: HI Hostel Downtown Jasper
• Best hotel in Jasper: Whistler’s Inn
• Best luxury accommodations in Jasper National Park: Pyramid Lake Resort or Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
• Best place for camping in Jasper: Snaring Campground, Jasper
• Best cabins in Jasper: Miette Mountain Cabin

Road Trip from Jasper to Lake Louise to Banff

If you’re staying in Banff like many people choose to do, then you might want to start your road trip from Lake Louise to Jasper from Banff.

In that case, there are so additional stops that you should definitely check out!

Must-sees on the way from Banff to Lake Louise:

• Vermillion Lake
• Two Jack Lake
• Minnewanka Lake
• Moraine Lake
• Lake Louise – stay here for the night

Read my 4-day Banff Itinerary

This is part of the Canadian Rockies that I am most familiar with, having driven it several times. It’s super pretty but the Icefields Parkway is something else!

Final thoughts on driving from Lake Louise to Jasper National Park

For adventurous and active travellers looking to drive from Lake Louise to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway is a dream.

The 230-kilometre scenic drive is often cited as one of the most beautiful drives in the world, offering stunning views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and a range of outdoor activities.

The Icefields Parkway offers numerous opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching. as well as plenty of other worthy stops.

One of the must-see attractions along the way is Peyto Lake, which is renowned for its vibrant blue colour and is surrounded by hiking trails that lead to stunning views. There are also waterfalls, glaciers and more beautiful lakes and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Overall, for adventurous and active travellers, the drive from Lake Louise to Jasper along the Icefields Parkway is a must-do experience, offering incredible scenic views and a range of outdoor activities.

If you’re continuing on into BC, be sure to check out these road trip guides including Kamloops to Jasper, where to stop between Whistler to Kamloops, and Whistler to Vancouver.

FAQs on driving from Lake Louise to Jasper

Last Updated on January 8, 2024 by Hannah