Explore the Canadian Rockies: Banff, Jasper & Yoho National Parks
As a region, the Canadian Rockies reward curiosity. From gondolas and glaciers to luxury train travel, this photo journal highlights some of our favourite adventures, enriched with insights and personal tips from Canada specialist Jeanette Dembrey.
Discover how to experience the region at its best – from knowing the quietest hours to paddle on Lake Louise, where to hike in Banff National Park, and where to stay in Jasper for the most memorable wildlife encounters.
Banff Gondola
Taking the gondola to Sulphur Mountain is more than a photo stop. It’s a chance to see six mountain ranges in one sweep.
Jeanette recommends timing your visit early in the day for clear skies and fewer crowds.
“The raw beauty of the mountains made me fall for the Rockies all over again.”
Cascade Garden
Known as Banff’s Secret Garden, the paths wind through terraced gardens that are resplendent with vibrant flowers, cascading ponds, and wooden gazebos.
“If you’re an avid gardener, you might have the opportunity to speak to a horticulturalist.”
Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Cruising under towering peaks, this hour‑long boat trip is ideal for those who want to experience Banff’s turquoise waters without a strenuous hike. Guides share stories of the lake’s history, adding depth to the scenery.
“In summer, Roam Transit Route 6 runs between Banff and the lake. If you’ve pre‑purchased a same‑day cruise ticket, simply show it to the driver and your bus ride is free.”
Cowboy Cookout
Riding in a covered waggon by the Bow River before a steak dinner is a great way to connect with Canada’s ranching heritage. It’s not just dinner; it’s storytelling, landscapes, and tradition rolled into one.
Jeanette recommends not only the activity but perhaps coming here for a longer ranch stay with Banff Trail Riders.
Cave and Basin to Sundance
From the Cave and Basin Historic Site (the birthplace of Canada’s national parks) to the Sundance Canyon, there are plenty of cycling and short hiking paths that let you explore at your own pace. The paved Sundance Trail offers an easy way to explore the landscape by bike or on foot, with the option to continue into the more challenging canyon loop.
“This is actually where Banff’s first sulphur hot springs were discovered, so you can really get a sense of the town’s history. We also visited the Sundance Canyon, followed by a 4K hike. Don’t be put off if you’re not a regular walker, as after the steep hill at the beginning, the path is mostly flat and easy-going the rest of the way.”
Stay at the Fox Hotel & Suites. Only a few miles away from the Cave and Basin site, the hotel’s design and famous indoor hot pool take their inspiration from the historic location.
Banff Open Top Touring
This experience revives the golden age of sightseeing. The custom 1930s‑inspired vehicles are modelled on the original touring cars once used by the historic Brewster brothers, giving today’s travellers a nostalgic yet stylish way to see Banff.
Jeanette recommends dressing for the elements. With the roof open, you’ll feel the mountain air and sun more directly. While it’s all part of the charm, its worth preparing for.
Lake Louise
Hiring a canoe at Lake Louise is simply iconic.
Jeanette enjoyed a paddle across the lake’s turquoise waters. “My advice is to go early. The water is at its most luminous in the morning, and you’ll avoid the busiest times.”
Moraine Lake & Takakkaw Falls
Climbing the rockpile at Moraine Lake leaves you with one of the Rockies’ most famous views, while across the border in British Columbia, the Takakkaw Falls (the highest waterfall in the Canadian Rockies), show the raw power of glacial melt.
“These stops are best combined on a guided Mountain Lakes and Waterfalls tour, one of the many activities we can organise in advance of your departure.”
Emerald Lake Lodge
Emerald Lake Lodge dates back to 1902, and its setting on a glacial lake peninsula in Yoho National Park, British Columbia, makes it one of the most atmospheric dining spots in the Rockies. You cross a small bridge to reach the lodge itself, adding to the sense of seclusion.
“Lunch on the terrace here is a highlight, but staying overnight gives you a rare chance to enjoy the views before day-trippers arrive.”
Athabasca Glacier
Walking on the Athabasca glacier with crampons is both sobering and spectacular, as you’ll learn about the glacier’s rapid retreat as well as experience the thrill of standing on 10,000‑year‑old ice. It is only possible to do this activity with a licensed guide as the ice shifts constantly and can be dangerous.
Guided glacier walks are available from May to mid-October. For a year-round alternative, the self-guided Toe of the Athabasca Glacier Trail will get you close enough to the glacier’s edge to view the markers, without stepping onto the ice.
“We recommend pre-booking your guided excursion to ensure you don’t miss out on what is a truly memorable experience.”
Edith Cavell Mountain
Rising 3,368 metres in Jasper National Park, Mount Edith Cavell is named after a heroic British nurse of World War I. Its north face is crowned by the striking Angel Glacier, while alpine meadows and hanging icefields add to the drama of this iconic peak.
Jeanette’s motorcycle with Jasper Motorcycle Sidecar Adventure Tours took her through the lower elevations of the mountain, a journey that revealed how travelling with locals can uncover far more than any guidebook.
“Rob, our guide, showed us many more of his favourite spots, including Leech Lake and Lake Beauvert, the latter overlooked by the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. He even gave us a local restaurant recommendation.”
Maligne Valley
The Maligne Valley Sightseeing tour combines two of Jasper’s best‑known natural attractions. The adventure begins at Maligne Canyon, where six bridges cross the dramatic limestone gorge, each leading to a different viewpoint. Later in the day, there is a cruise on Maligne Lake with the boat heading towards the viewpoint overlooking Spirit Island, a spiritual place for the Stoney Nakoda First Nation.
“It’s worth noting that time is limited at Maligne Canyon, and photo spots are highly sought after, so expect a little competition for the best angles.”
Year-round Jasper
For secluded wilderness stays where wildlife abound, look to Jasper’s Alpine Village. Open from May to October, its upscale log chalets sit right on the roaring Athabasca River; a natural corridor that serves as a primary travel route for animals. Because the property is less developed and bordered by dense forest, elk often graze here, and bears are frequently recorded wandering past the cabins. June stays can even bring grizzly sightings, making it one of the town’s most rewarding places to stay.
Proof that the resort is as much a wildlife hub as it is a base, Jeanette spotted elk on her evening walks here, but a sighting of a mother bear with cubs was the highlight of her stay.
Alternatively, embrace the cosy, year-round charm of Bear Hill Lodge. Tucked into a quiet corner of the townsite, their homestyle cabins offer easy walkability to local cafés and are perfect for snowy winter escapes.
We highlighted the property as an affordable alternative to Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge in Hello magazine’s recent review of the Canadian Rockies, Head of Travel Penny Walker, ditching the usual holiday haunts in favour of a quiet break in the mountains.
Rail Journeys Through the Rockies
Beginning or ending your Canadian Rockies adventure by train is one of the most rewarding ways to absorb the scenery. VIA Rail’s Skeena train runs between Prince Rupert and Jasper during the day time, with the tracks following the Skeena River through British Columbia’s spectacular wilderness. Its expansive windows frame forests, rivers and mountains, making this a wonderfully scenic way to approach or depart the region, with the town serving as your gateway to all its treasures.
By contrast, the Rocky Mountaineer is an adventure in itself. With its glass-domed coaches, gourmet dining, and curated commentary, this luxury experience is all about the scenery. The train only travels in daylight hours and often slows down to allow more time to capture the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.
Expertise in Tailor‑Made Holidays
At Frontier Canada, what sets these experiences apart is how they’re woven together. Our specialists know when to time a gondola ride, which lodge terrace has the best views, and how to strike the right balance between adventure and cultural insight. That’s the difference between a standard itinerary and a tailor‑made Canada holiday.
Ready to start planning your trip to the Canadian Rockies? Call our Canada specialists today on 020 8776 8709 or email canada@frontier-travel.co.uk.
