Canada
Continue following the Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise
Keep driving the legendary Icefields Parkway all the way to Lake Louise in Banff National Park. Along the way, stop at the breathtaking Peyto Lake, check out Bow Lake and its glacier, and hike up to the Upper Falls in Johnston Canyon for the best sights. Sunny skies and the most beautiful lake I've ever seen make this day my personal highlight of the trip.
Phenomenal views at Peyto Lake
Without a doubt, the most spectacular lake in the Rockies! Just as many viewpoints along the Icefields Parkway, also this lake is easy to reach. From the parking lot follow the short, steep walk to the viewing platform overlooking Peyto Lake.
Stop at Bow Lake
Another stunning glacier lake! There are several viewpoints of Bow Lake along the Icefields Parkway. I recommend stopping at the first viewpoint (at the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge) and at the Crowfoot Glacier viewpoint.
Picnic at Herbert Lake
A calm lake with beautiful reflections on the water on a clear day. This lake sees hardly any tourists and is a great stop for a picnic.
Hiking at Johnston Canyon
A beautiful gorge with turquoise water and a dense pine forest. You can choose from two hiking trails: 2,4 km out-and-back to the Lower Falls or 4.8 km out-and-back to the Upper Falls. While hiking to the Upper Falls, you’ll pass the Lower Falls, so I highly recommend taking the longest route. It’s a crowded place, yet a highlight. The further you walk, the less crowded the trail becomes.
Check in at your lodge
A lodge near Lake Louise is the perfect base to explore Banff in the coming days. The lodge we stayed at, Deer Lodge, unfortunately, is closed for renovation until 2026. Another great option is the Post Hotel & Spa.
What's for dinner?
The Outpost Pub, located in the Post Hotel & Spa, has an amazing atmosphere, great wines and good food. 😋 What more can you ask for after an active day in the mountains?
