The Icefields Parkway from Jasper
The Icefields Parkway is Highway 93 North between Jasper and Lake Louise. The road is 232 km long. Do not mix it up with Highway 93A, a separate side road, and do not use the 232 km for the distance to the town of Banff, which lies beyond Lake Louise.
How long the drive takes depends on your stops, the weather and wildlife on the road, so the pace is yours to set. Most of the sights on the Jasper side sit in the first stretch south of town. If you prefer to leave the driving to someone else, look at our Jasper National Park tours for guided day trips along the route.
Stops on the Icefields Parkway
From Jasper to the south.
Athabasca Falls
The falls are 23 m high. The viewpoints are close to the water, and the rocks are slippery from spray. Stay behind the railings and do not climb on the rocks.
Athabasca Falls guide →Sunwapta Falls
A waterfall in a limestone gorge with a footbridge. It is also the start of a backcountry trail along the Athabasca River. The same warnings about wet rock and railings apply.
Sunwapta Falls on the same page →Columbia Icefield
The Athabasca Glacier is an outlet of the icefield, which is the largest in the Canadian Rockies. It lies across from the Icefield Centre close to the Banff border. Glacier trips and the Skywalk run in summer.
Columbia Icefield guide →Peyto Lake and Bow Summit
These stops are on the Banff side of the border and not part of Jasper. They fit into a longer drive to Lake Louise.
Our pick: the parkway in one day
One long day from Banff to Jasper that stops at the lakes and falls and includes the glacier ride.
Hand-picked tours, booked through GetYourGuide. Prices are indicative starting prices in US dollars (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Icefields Parkway tours and day trips
Guided trips along the parkway and to the Columbia Icefield, with live prices and availability.
Icefield Parkway drive: what to prepare
The road is remote, and the rules are strict.
Park pass
A park pass is required for the Icefields Parkway, even if you only drive through. A valid Discovery Pass covers both Jasper and Banff. The day pass is CA$12.25 for adults aged 18 to 64 and CA$10.75 for seniors from 65. A vehicle group of up to 7 pays CA$24.50, and youths up to 17 enter free. Discovery Pass prices are CA$83.50 for adults, CA$71.50 for seniors and CA$167.50 for a family or group.
Winter tires
From 1 November to 31 March you need winter tires or chains, and the same applies at any other time when the road is covered with snow or ice. Parks Canada names the snowflake mark or M+S on the tire. That does not mean every rental car is fit for winter conditions.
Little or no mobile signal
Parks Canada warns that mobile reception is missing along this remote road. Download offline maps before you leave and check road conditions on Alberta 511.
Fuel
You can fill up in Jasper and in Lake Louise. Saskatchewan River Crossing offers seasonal service. In winter there are no services between Jasper and Lake Louise, so fill up before you start.
Closures
Weather and avalanche control can close the road for a time. Plan some buffer into the day, and see our page on the weather and best time to visit.
Icefields Parkway tour or self drive
Two ways to travel the same road.
| Self drive | Guided tour | |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | You choose every stop | Fixed schedule |
| Winter | Winter tires or chains required | The company handles the vehicle |
| Signal | Little or no mobile reception on the road | – |
| Park pass | You buy it | Check what the price includes |
For most visitors in summer, a self drive gives the most freedom, since the main stops are close to the road. In winter or if you do not want to drive on snow, a guided trip is the easier choice.
Plan the rest of your trip
Where the parkway fits.
Columbia Icefield
The Athabasca Glacier and the Skywalk.
Athabasca Falls
Viewpoints and Sunwapta Falls.
Canadian Rockies trip
Jasper, Lake Louise and Banff in one route.
The southern end of the road leads to Lake Louise and on to Banff.
Icefields Parkway: frequently asked questions
Is the town of Banff included in the 232 km?
No. The 232 km run from Jasper to Lake Louise. The town of Banff lies beyond Lake Louise.
How long is the Icefields Parkway?
It is 232 km between Jasper and Lake Louise on Highway 93 North.
Do I need a park pass to drive the parkway?
Yes. A pass is required even if you only drive through. A Discovery Pass covers Jasper and Banff.
Do I need winter tires?
From 1 November to 31 March, yes, and at any time when the road has snow or ice. Look for the snowflake mark or M+S on the tires.
Is there mobile reception on the road?
Reception is missing along long parts of this remote road. Use offline maps.
Where can I buy fuel?
In Jasper and in Lake Louise, with seasonal service at Saskatchewan River Crossing. Fill up before you start, especially in winter.