Banff and Jasper National Parks are a place where rugged wilderness, soaring peaks, and vibrant turquoise lakes come together to create one of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth. Here, wildlife roams freely across sprawling meadows, glaciers carve their way through ancient valleys, and every turn reveals a postcard-perfect scene straight from a dream. Our 5-day road trip through the heart of the Canadian Rockies took us from peaceful alpine lakes to the legendary Icefields Parkway, offering unforgettable encounters with grizzly bears, black bears, elk, and more.

This guide details our carefully planned itinerary, must-see stops, and essential tips to help you experience the very best of Banff and Jasper. Whether you’re chasing wildlife at dawn, hiking icy trails to panoramic viewpoints, or simply soaking in the surreal beauty of glacier-fed waters, this journey promises adventure, awe, and memories that will stay with you forever.

🎧 Prefer to listen? Press play for the audio version of this guide—then scroll down for all the details, maps, photos, and travel tips!

📌 This audio version was generated using AI for listener convenience and inspiration. It offers a high-level summary and does not include all the travel tips, photos, or full itinerary details. This feature is experimental and may contain minor inconsistencies compared to the written guide.
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📍 Itinerary At a Glance

Day 1: Arrival in Calgary – Into the Wild

• Landed at Calgary International Airport and picked up our rental car.
• Brief walk through downtown Calgary.
• Drove to Canmore, with grocery stop and bear spray purchase en route.
• Late afternoon wildlife drive along Spray Lakes Road.
• Spotted bighorn sheep near the road; stayed in Canmore for the night.

Day 2: Vermilion Lakes, Johnston Canyon & Lake Louise

• Sunrise at Vermilion Lakes — spotted elk, coyote, and baby ducks.
• Explored Banff town and photographed the surrounding peaks.
• Drove Bow Valley Parkway (northern access due to closure) to Johnston Canyon.
• Hiked to the Upper Falls through icy trails and misty canyon views.
• Afternoon visit to Lake Louise, still partially frozen.
• Hiked Fairview Lookout Trail — watched snow sweep over the lake from above.

Day 3: Grizzlies, Turquoise Lakes & the Icefields Parkway

• Left Canmore at 4 AM to drive Spray Lakes Road — saw hare, deer, grizzly & black bear.
• Drove north on the Icefields Parkway toward Jasper.
• Stopped at Peyto Lake Viewpoint — icy trail but jaw-dropping views.
• Spotted more bears, bighorn sheep, and a massive grizzly near Bow Lake.
• Skipped Columbia Icefield walk for conservation reasons; admired it from the parking area.
• Stopped at Goats & Glacier Lookout to spot mountain goats (with no luck).
• Arrived in Jasper, then explored Lake Annette at sunset.
• Evening wildlife sightings: elk and a grizzly mom with two cubs.

Day 4: Canyon Echoes, Wildlife & Return to Canmore

• Sunrise hike at Maligne Canyon — witnessed a crow feeding its chicks.
• Stopped in downtown Jasper for coffee and a quick stroll.
  Visited Athabasca Falls, a roaring glacial waterfall carved into a deep canyon.
• Drove south along the Icefields Parkway, spotting bears and bighorn sheep again.
• Scenic stops at Saskatchewan River Crossing and Waterfowl Lakes.
• Returned to Canmore for our final night — squeezed in one last drive on Spray Lakes Road.
• More wildlife: another black bear and bighorn sheep at dusk.

Day 5: Canmore Stroll & Departure

• Enjoyed a peaceful morning walk in downtown Canmore.
• Drove back to Calgary International Airport for a midday flight.
• Departed the Rockies with SD cards full and hearts even fuller.

📌 Things to Keep in Mind for Future Travelers

📱 Download Offline Maps with AllTrails+

Having offline access to trail maps was absolutely essential during our hikes in Banff and Jasper, where cell service is often bad or even nonexistent once you leave town. We’ve used AllTrails+ for years and can’t imagine a better way to navigate the trails — real-time GPS tracking, elevation profiles, trail difficulty ratings, comments and advise from recent travelers, and offline map downloads made every hike safer and more enjoyable.

If you’re planning to explore beyond the most popular viewpoints, we highly recommend upgrading to AllTrails+ for full offline functionality.

🛡️ Carry Bear Spray — And Know How to Use It

Bear spray is essential when hiking or exploring wildlife areas. Keep it easily accessible (not buried in a backpack) and learn how to use it beforehand. You can purchase bear spray in Banff, Jasper, or Canmore. Remember, you can’t bring it on planes, even in checked luggage.

🚗 Stay Inside Your Vehicle When Viewing Wildlife

When encountering wildlife like bears, always stay inside your car. Keep at least 100 meters (>300 feet) from bears and 30 meters (~100 feet) from elk or deer. Use zoom lenses for photography—never approach wildlife on foot. I personally use the Sony FE 200–600mm F5.6–6.3 G OSS Lens paired with my Sony Alpha a6600 mirrorless camera, which has completely transformed my wildlife photography by allowing me to capture intimate close-ups safely from a distance.

🥾 Expect Snow and Ice on Trails in Late Spring

Even in late May or early June, trails like Fairview Lookout and Peyto Lake Viewpoint can have hard-packed snow and ice. Good hiking boots with traction are essential, and microspikes are highly recommended for slippery sections depending on the season. We have provided a couple of options for hiking boots we like and use for men and women in our Travel Resources section.

📡 No Cell Service Along the Icefields Parkway

Plan ahead. There’s no reliable, constant signal between Lake Louise and Jasper. Download offline maps, save your accommodation details, and fuel up before hitting the Icefields Parkway. The only gas stop along the route is at the seasonal Saskatchewan River Crossing.

🏨 Book Accommodations Early

Even outside of peak season, lodging fills up fast in Banff, Jasper, and Canmore. Book hotels, park shuttles (for places like Moraine Lake), and key activities several weeks—or ideally months—in advance.

🚧 Respect Wildlife Closures and Trail Restrictions

Sections like the Bow Valley Parkway are closed seasonally to protect wildlife. Always check Parks Canada for updates before traveling, and obey all closure signs to help protect these fragile ecosystems.

🎒 Pack for All Seasons

Weather can shift dramatically—from sunny and warm to cold and snowy within hours. Pack layers, including a waterproof jacket, fleece, hat, and gloves. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also must-haves due to strong glacier glare. We recommend polarized sunglasses, which may also help get more vivid colors from the landscapes. We dropped some reviewed gear we use in our Travel Resources section.

🌿 Leave No Trace

Stay on marked trails, dispose of waste properly, and respect wildlife from a distance. Banff and Jasper are protected environments—help keep them pristine for future visitors.

🧳 Packing Essentials for Banff and Jasper

🧥 Clothing

Packing for Banff and Jasper means preparing for unpredictable mountain weather — chilly mornings, strong midday sun, and sudden snow showers, even in late spring or early summer. Whether you’re hiking to glacial overlooks or photographing wildlife along remote forest roads, here’s everything we found essential to stay warm, dry, and ready for any adventure:

👕 Layered, Quick-Dry Clothing

We packed moisture-wicking base layers, fleece midlayers, and lightweight hiking pants. Temperatures can swing dramatically — starting near freezing at sunrise and reaching 20°C (68°F) or higher by afternoon. We recommend merino wool or synthetic blends for base layers to stay warm even when damp.

🥾 Waterproof Hiking Boots with Grip

Trails at places like Lake Louise and Peyto Lake were still covered in snow and ice during our visit. For these conditions, we relied on the Columbia Newton Ridge Plus II Waterproof Hiking Boots for men and the Columbia Dakota Drifter Hiking Shoes for women — both providing excellent traction and waterproof protection.

🍎 Health & Protection Essentials

🧴 Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen

High-altitude sunlight is intense. We packed the Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion — lightweight, and non-greasy, perfect for long days outside.

🦟 Insect Repellent

Mosquito season can hit hard around lakes and marshy areas. We protected ourselves with Sawyer Picaridin Insect Repellent (20%), which is gear-safe and effective without the sticky feeling of DEET products.

🧪 Permethrin-Treated Clothing

For extra protection later in the season, we recommend treating hiking clothes and gear with Sawyer Permethrin Clothing & Gear Insect Repellent. It’s odorless once dry and extremely effective against ticks and mosquitoes.

🛑 Always follow instructions carefully and avoid spraying Permethrin directly on skin.

📷 Camera Gear

Banff and Jasper offer incredible opportunities for wildlife and landscape photography.

We used the Sony Alpha a6600 Mirrorless Camera paired with the Sony FE 200–600mm F5.6–6.3 G OSS Lens — an ideal combo for photographing grizzlies, black bears, and elk safely from a distance without disturbing them.

🔌 Charging & Power Essentials

🚗 Car Charger with USB-C Ports

To keep all our gear powered while road-tripping we used the Baseus 160W USB-C Car Charger, which could fast-charge multiple devices at once — perfect to be powered at all times during long days of driving and photographing.

🔌 Travel Adapter (If Needed)

For international travelers, Canada uses Type A/B plugs at 120V. We recommend the EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter (TA-105 Pro), capable of fast-charging up to five devices simultaneously.

For more detailed gear reviews, packing ideas, and equipment we personally trust for rugged adventures, be sure to check out our Travel Resources section.

🐾 Wildlife Encounters in Banff & Jasper

Banff and Jasper National Parks are among the best places in North America to observe large mammals, mountain wildlife, and stunning birdlife — all in their natural, untamed habitats. From black bears grazing at sunrise to bighorn sheep perched on cliff sides, every day brought unexpected and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Below is a breakdown of the most incredible animals that can be spotted during your Canadian Rockies road trip.

🦌 Elk – Iconic Residents of Banff and Jasper

Elk were among the most common and charismatic animals we encountered — easily spotted near towns and lakeshores.

Best Chance to See Them:

• Vermilion Lakes at sunrise and dusk
• Meadows around Banff town
• Bow Valley Parkway during early morning and late evening drives
• Between Lake Anette and Maligne Canyon

🐻 Grizzly Bears – The Majestic Giants of the Rockies

Seeing grizzlies in the wild was a highlight of the trip. We observed a collared grizzly peacefully grazing near Spray Lakes Road, completely undisturbed by passing vehicles and other grizzlies driving up the Icefields Parkway on our way to Jasper, and just outside of Jasper town.

Best Chance to See Them:

• Remote sections of Spray Lakes Road at dawn and dusk
• Meadows near Moraine Lake and Icefields Parkway

Pro Tip: Always observe bears from your vehicle with a zoom lens — it’s safer for both you and the animals.

🐻‍❄️ Black Bears – Gentle Foragers of the Forest

Black bears were more numerous than we expected, often seen calmly grazing near the roadsides. We had several sightings, including one particularly memorable moment when snowflakes started falling as a black bear locked eyes with our camera.

Best Chance to See Them:

• Spray Lakes Road
• Along the Bow Valley Parkway
• Icefields Parkway
• Edges of forested areas near Maligne Lake Road

🐏 Bighorn Sheep – The Mountain Climbers

Bighorn sheep were a regular sight along the rocky cliffs and open meadows, often right by the road. We encountered them frequently along Spray Lakes Road.

Best Chance to See Them:

• Goats & Glaciers Lookout along the Icefields Parkway
• Spray Lakes Road in early mornings and late afternoons

Fun Fact: During the spring, males (rams) can often be seen headbutting as part of dominance displays.

🐿️ Columbian Ground Squirrels – The Tiny Sentinels

These lively little creatures were spotted everywhere around Banff and Canmore. They stood upright, chirping loudly to warn others of potential danger (including us photographers!).

Best Chance to See Them:

• Grassy fields and roadside verges around Canmore and Banff
• Picnic areas and trailheads along Icefields Parkway

Photo Tip: They’re fast — have your camera ready with a quick shutter speed if you want to catch one mid-chirp or mid-run!

🐐 Mountain Goats – The Elusive Cliff Dwellers

We scanned the cliffs carefully hoping to spot mountain goats, especially near Norquay and the Goats & Glaciers Viewpoint, but unfortunately didn’t catch a glimpse. These sure-footed climbers are experts at blending into rocky ledges and steep mountain faces.

Best Chance to See Them:

• Goats & Glaciers Viewpoint along the Icefields Parkway
• Cliff areas near Mount Norquay, particularly early mornings or late afternoons

🦫 Hoary Marmots – The Watchful Whistlers

We kept an eye out for marmots around alpine trails and rocky slopes, but they stayed hidden during our trip. These large, social rodents are often spotted sunbathing on rocks during warmer days.

Best Chance to See Them:

• Talus slopes and high-elevation areas along the Icefields Parkway
• Near the Rockpile Trail at Moraine Lake and other rocky alpine zones

Fun Fact: Marmots are known for their loud whistling calls, which they use to warn each other of predators.

✨ Final Thoughts on Wildlife in Banff & Jasper

Every day spent in the Rockies felt like stepping into a wild documentary. Whether it was locking eyes with a black bear during snowfall, watching a grizzly graze peacefully just meters away, or hearing the haunting bugle of an elk echo through the valleys, these parks offer unforgettable wildlife experiences at every turn.

If you’re a wildlife photographer or simply a nature lover, Banff and Jasper belong at the top of your must-visit list.

💰 Approximate Trip Cost (May 2024)

Here’s a breakdown of our basic trip costs for a 5-day adventure through Banff and Jasper National Parks, all in USD. Keep in mind that travel costs can vary depending on time of year, lodging style, and individual preferences, but this gives a solid idea for planning a similar wildlife and nature-focused road trip.

🏨 Accommodation ~$590

We stayed 4 nights across Canmore and Jasper. The average cost per night was $295 USD. We stayed at three different places along the way, all of which we highly recommend: WorldMark Canmore – Banff for the first two nights, Mount Robson Inn in Jasper for night three, and Blanchard Mountain BnB back in Canmore for our final night.

🚗 Car Rental – $250

We rented an SUV at Calgary International Airport to comfortably handle long drives and occasional gravel roads like Spray Lakes.

⛽ Gasoline ~$120

The total driving distance was around 1,000 kilometers (600+ miles).

🥪 Meals ~$200

Because of our early mornings and late evenings focused on wildlife spotting, we often opted for simple meals: grocery store runs, sandwiches, snacks, and occasional quick restaurant stops.

🎟️ Park Fees ~ $82

We purchased the Daily Entry Pass online ahead of time, which costs approximately $11 CAD per person per day and, in our case, it was cheaper than the Discovery Pass, which would have been ~$75 per person.

🛡️ Bear Spray Rental or Purchase ~$15

Because of the high density of wildlife in Banff and Jasper, carrying bear spray is essential for safety when hiking or exploring remote areas.
We purchased a can of bear spray locally for about $20 CAD (approximately $15 USD) at a grocery store in Canmore.

✈️ Total Approximate Trip Cost for 2 People

Approximately $1,300 USD for 5 days (excluding flights)

Banff and Jasper offer a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers. While costs like car rentals and accommodations can add up, traveling independently, staying in convenient towns like Canmore and Jasper, and focusing on self-guided exploration allowed us to experience the best of the Canadian Rockies’ wildlife and landscapes without breaking the bank. Every sunrise drive, glacier view, and wildlife encounter made every dollar feel incredibly well spent.

🗺️ Day-by-Day Itinerary

Tucked deep within the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff and Jasper National Parks are two of the most breathtaking wilderness areas in North America — and possibly the world. Known for their turquoise glacier-fed lakes, snow-dusted peaks, and some of the best wildlife encounters in North America, these UNESCO World Heritage Sites offer a once-in-a-lifetime escape into the raw beauty of western Canada.

While Banff stuns with its iconic viewpoints like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, Jasper brings a quieter, more remote atmosphere filled with elk herds, black bears, and mirror-still alpine lakes. Driving the legendary Icefields Parkway between the two parks is an experience in itself — a 230 km (143 miles) scenic route lined with waterfalls, glaciers, and constant wildlife sightings. Whether you’re chasing the perfect sunrise shot, hiking to a hidden tea house, or scanning for grizzlies at dusk, this itinerary is built to help you maximize every moment of your time in the Canadian Rockies.

Note on Wildfires: In July 2024, just a month after our departure from this wonderful place, Jasper National Park experienced significant wildfires that impacted parts of the park and the town itself. As of April 2025, many areas reopened to visitors, though some closures and restoration efforts continue. For the latest information on park access and conditions, please consult Parks Canada’s official updates. 

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Day 1: Arrival in Calgary – Indigenous Culture, Canmore, and Spray Lakes Wildlife Drive

We landed in Calgary International Airport (YYC) late morning, breezed through customs, and picked up our SUV departing the airport by noon. Before heading into the mountains, we made a quick detour into downtown Calgary, where we spent about an hour walking through the central streets — checking out local shops, drinking a good coffee, and walking through the city’s clean, modern vibe.

By mid-afternoon, we were back on the road heading west toward the Rockies. The drive from Calgary to Canmore took about 2 hours depending on traffic. Canmore is a fantastic base for the first couple days of the trip — quieter than Banff (without railway noise or busy streets at night), yet just minutes from the park and surrounded by alpine views.

After checking into our accommodation and stocking up on groceries in Canmore, we headed out for a scenic evening drive along Spray Lakes Road. This road is unpaved but fully drivable with a 2WD vehicle during the summer months, assuming conditions are dry. There was no snow during our late May visit, though you should always check road reports if you’re traveling earlier in the season. Also, keep in mind that some sections are prone to landslides so make sure to check the signs on the road and stay alert.

As soon as we turned onto Spray Lakes Road, we were greeted by a group of bighorn sheep near the roadside — an incredible welcome to the wildlife-rich terrain of the Canadian Rockies. This road is long and remote, so plan accordingly if you intend to drive it in both directions. You can either turn back or continue south until it connects back to the main highway, depending on your available time and comfort level.

The area is known for potential sightings of moose, elk, black bears, coyotes, and even grizzlies, especially in the early evening hours, so keep your camera (and bear spray) close. It was the perfect slow-paced introduction to the beauty of the region.

To make the most of our early mornings and long days exploring the Rockies, we based ourselves at WorldMark Canmore – Banff. Tucked at the top of a hill near Spray Lakes Road, it offered a peaceful, quiet setting far from downtown noise and the constant railway rumble. Since we always wake up early for wildlife and photography, this location was perfect — no disturbances from late-night diners or partygoers. The room was spacious and spotless, we didn’t hear a thing all night, and we especially appreciated the ample parking and outdoor grills. Bonus: there’s even a pool on-site for a relaxing wind-down after a big hike.

📍 Next Up: Our quest for wildlife leads to great encounters.

Day 2: Vermilion Lakes Sunrise, Johnston Canyon & a Snowy Surprise at Lake Louise

We left Canmore around 5:30 AM to catch the sunrise at Vermilion Lakes, a peaceful oasis just outside Banff that’s renowned for early-morning wildlife. As soon as we arrived, we spotted two elk mid-shedding, quietly grazing near the water’s edge. We took our time capturing their silhouettes against the golden light before continuing along the lakes in search of more wildlife.

We ventured into the Fenland Trail area, walking alongside streams in the heart of the forest. Although we were hoping for a moose sighting, what we got instead was a bonus — a coyote trotting confidently past us, completely unbothered. We also saw baby ducks trailing their mother through the reeds, adding a gentle charm to the morning.

After a quick breakfast in Banff town and some timelapse photography of the surrounding peaks, we set off for Johnston Canyon via the Bow Valley Parkway — or at least, that was the plan. Much to our surprise, the main southern access to the parkway was closed to protect wildlife (a seasonal restriction we hadn’t seen posted anywhere prior to the trip, our mistake). We rerouted through a northern entrance instead as we made our way to the canyon.

Along the way, we passed signs warning of wolf activity in the area — a thrilling possibility for wildlife enthusiasts like us. While we didn’t encounter any wolves, we were excited just to know they were near. The Johnston Canyon Upper Falls Trail was scenic and moderately busy, but still quiet enough to enjoy — one of the perks of visiting before peak season. It was cool, damp, and still partially icy in places, though the trail was well maintained. Ice patches clung to the canyon walls, giving it a rugged winter-spring contrast.

After Johnston Canyon, we headed toward Lake Louise, which was still partially frozen. Despite a few tourist buses, parking was plentiful, and it felt like we had the upper lake area mostly to ourselves. While kayak rentals were still closed, we decided to do the short but steep Fairview Lookout Trail — a loop that brings you above the lake and offers stunning views of both the castle-like Fairmont hotel and the glowing turquoise water below.

At the top, just as we set up a timelapse, the weather shifted dramatically. Within minutes, a “wall” of snow moved in, swirling through the mountains in front of us — a mesmerizing sight. But the trail itself was quite slippery, with lingering ice and snow making footing a challenge. If you’re visiting in late May or early June, be sure to bring microspikes or hiking shoes with strong grip.

We ended the day back in Canmore, stopping at a gas station — where we were greeted by a quirky surprise: a whole group of ground squirrels standing guard outside their burrows right on the lawn. It was unexpected, fun, and yet another reminder that wildlife is everywhere in the Rockies. We spent our second night at the same peaceful retreat — WorldMark Canmore – Banff — perfectly located away from the town’s noise, ensuring another quiet and restful night before the adventure continued.

📍 Next Up: We chase wildlife and melting snow on our way to Jasper, crossing the legendary Icefields Parkway.

Day 3: A Grizzly Morning, Turquoise Lakes, and Wildlife Encounters on the Road to Jasper

We were up by 4:00 AM and out the door well before sunrise. Our plan was to take another drive along Spray Lakes Road, hoping to spot the moose and bears we hadn’t seen two days earlier.

The road delivered.

After about 15 minutes driving, a hare darted across our path, followed by deer grazing along the forest edge. Wildlife crossings are constant here — we can’t stress enough how cautiously you should drive this road, especially before dawn. Just when we thought our luck was out, we spotted a grizzly bear — massive, calm, and equipped with a tracker collar. It was unbothered by our presence, strolling slowly through the trees just meters from our car. We stayed safely inside, capturing photos and video from the window. (It’s unlawful and unsafe to exit your vehicle near bears — yet we witnessed others doing just that. Please don’t.)

A few minutes later, we came across a black bear, peacefully grazing in the early light. The bear occasionally glanced at the cars but kept its distance, calmly controlling its space. As if scripted, light snow began to fall, dusting the bear’s fur and adding a surreal, silent beauty to the moment. Thanks to our long range Sony 200–600mm G lens, we captured some of the most intimate shots of the trip — including moments where the bear appeared to lock eyes with the camera. We could’ve stayed all morning, but our schedule pulled us north.

⚠️ Be sure to fill up your gas tank in advance — there are no gas stations or cell signal for long stretches along the Icefields Parkway.

From Canmore, we began the long but scenic drive toward Jasper, with a stop planned at Peyto Lake.

Our first scenic stop was Bow Lake, which was still partially frozen, framed by towering peaks. We pulled off into a small roadside lot to admire the view. Along the way, we saw another black bear, a group of bighorn sheep, and a massive grizzly — even larger than the one we had seen that morning. Wildlife was everywhere.

We then reached Peyto Lake and hiked the Peyto Lake Viewpoint Trail, a short and popular trail that provides one of the most iconic aerial views in the Rockies. The lake was that brilliant emerald-turquoise color you dream of, and the view from above was simply breathtaking. But be warned — like at Lake Louise, the trail was still icy and slippery. Many people fell or turned back, and we decided not to risk a longer hike with our gear.

Driving along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most awe-inspiring roads in the world, you not only witness surreal beauty — you read the landscape like a living history book. You can literally see how far the glaciers have retreated: bare rocky moraines in the foreground, new green forests in the distance, and vast, icy remnants still clinging to the peaks. We skipped the glacier walk to avoid contributing to further environmental wear — just seeing it from the parking lot was profound enough.

Before continuing on to Jasper, we made a short stop at the Goats & Glaciers Lookout, hoping to spot mountain goats perched on the cliffs above. Despite scanning the rugged slopes for nearly 15 minutes with our Sony 200–600mm G OSS lens, no goats were in sight. It was still a beautiful and worthwhile stop, with panoramic views that capture the drama of the Rockies in a single frame, and we always recommend bringing a long lens for chances like this.

By late afternoon, we arrived in Jasper, checked in, grabbed groceries, and headed right back out. Our goal was to explore Maligne Canyon and Lake Annette for sunset wildlife photography. But the wildlife found us first.

Just minutes after leaving Jasper town, we saw a grizzly mother and two cubs under the trees. Then, only five minutes further, we passed a small herd of elk calmly grazing roadside. Given the time, we saved Maligne Canyon for the next morning and instead walked the easy Lake Annette Loop Trail. We didn’t spot any animals here, but the soft golden light on the lake made it a peaceful way to wind down.

On the way back, another elk appeared beside the road — this time close enough for detailed photos and gentle eye contact. It was another quiet, magical end to a day overflowing with wildlife moments.

That night, we stayed at the Mount Robson Inn in Jasper — a quiet, renovated motel-style stay with everything we needed after a long day on the road. The room was clean and comfortable, and despite its central location, it was surprisingly peaceful. The staff was friendly, and the included breakfast, while simple, had all the essentials to fuel us up for another full day of hiking and wildlife chasing.

📍 Next Up: A golden-hour canyon hike and one last wildlife-filled drive along the Icefields Parkway.

Day 4: Canyon Echoes, Bear Encounters, and the Final Stretch to Canmore

We left our hotel in Jasper before sunrise and reached Maligne Canyon Loop around 6:00 AM — the first car in the lot, giving us the gift of solitude. Just minutes into the trail, a surprising sound caught our attention: the insistent calls of baby birds echoing from a rocky crevice. Looking up, we spotted a nest of crows, and just as we raised our cameras, we witnessed the parents return and feed the chicks — a rare and intimate moment we were lucky to capture before it ended.

Though the canyon trail itself didn’t yield any other wildlife sightings, the views were spectacular. Crisscrossing bridges over icy-blue rushing water, steep limestone walls, and deep shadows created a dramatic and cinematic start to the day.

After the hike, we made a quick visit to downtown Jasper, a small but charming alpine town with a relaxed atmosphere, local shops, and stunning mountain backdrops in every direction. After grabbing a warm drink and strolling its quiet streets, we began the long drive back to Canmore via the Icefields Parkway — and it was no less magical the second time. The light had shifted, painting the peaks in softer tones, and the wildlife remained just as active. Along the way, we spotted black bears and bighorn sheep once again — a fitting reminder of how wild and alive this landscape truly is.

Just a short drive from town, we made a key stop at Athabasca Falls, a powerful, thundering waterfall that roars through a narrow canyon. Although it’s one of the most visited stops along the parkway, we arrived early enough to enjoy the viewpoint with very few people around. The mist from the falls, combined with the sound echoing off the canyon walls, was a spectacular reminder of the raw power of glacial rivers.

We then made a quick stop near Saskatchewan River Crossing (Howse Pass Viewpoint), where we enjoyed a packed lunch in the car. A large, bold crow perched on the trunk, keeping a sharp eye on our every bite. Each time we pretended to open the door, it would flinch and hop back — then inch closer again, determined to stake its claim.

Further south, we pulled over at Waterfowl Lakes, a serene, glacier-fed twin-lake system framed by rugged mountains. It was a short but rewarding stop — perfect for stretching our legs, taking photos, and soaking up the views one last time before heading into the final stretch.

By late afternoon, we arrived back in Canmore, completing our 4-day loop through Banff and Jasper. Although we were completely exhausted from the early mornings, long hikes, and full days of driving, we couldn’t resist squeezing in one final visit to Spray Lakes Road — the place where it all began. Our persistence paid off: we spotted more bighorn sheep and a black bear, possibly the same one from earlier in the trip, calmly grazing in the fading light. This charming mountain town was the perfect place to decompress after a whirlwind journey filled with wildlife, icy trails, and surreal landscapes. We checked into our final accommodation, grabbed dinner, and took it slow — already nostalgic for the magic we’d just lived.

For our final night in Canmore, we stayed at the Blanchard Mountain BnB — a cozy, well-equipped lower-floor suite in an owner-occupied home nestled on the opposite side of town from our earlier stay. The space was clean, quiet, and spacious, with peaceful forest views right outside (where moose are sometimes spotted, though we weren’t that lucky). The fridge and pantry were stocked with snacks and essentials we could help ourselves to, and a grill was available for guest use. Perched up on the hill, it offered the perfect blend of comfort and seclusion — and with such a kind and welcoming host, it’s a place we’d return to in a heartbeat.

📍Next Up: A final stroll through Canmore before we head home — hearts full and already dreaming of the next adventure.

Day 5: A Quiet Morning in Canmore & Farewell to the Rockies

We woke up to a slower-paced morning in Canmore, finally catching our breath after four intense days packed with early starts, wildlife encounters, and some of the most scenic drives on Earth. With time before our midday flight, we took a peaceful walk through downtown Canmore, admiring the mountain silhouettes one last time and browsing a few local shops.

Soon after, we packed up, checked out, and drove the scenic route back to Calgary International Airport — watching the peaks gradually fade into rolling prairie, closing the chapter on a short but unforgettable journey through Banff and Jasper’s raw wilderness.

🧐 Final Reflections

While this 5-day adventure through Banff and Jasper was unforgettable, we left feeling like we had only scratched the surface. In an ideal world, we would have loved to add another 3 to 4 days — enough time to slow down, explore more accessible trails, and fully immerse ourselves in the backcountry hikes that we love. But with limited time, this whirlwind loop gave us a remarkable taste of what the Canadian Rockies have to offer.

From thrilling wildlife encounters and snow-dusted alpine lakes, to the quiet power of a grizzly’s gaze or the sound of birds echoing through a canyon, every day delivered something raw and real. It was the kind of trip that breaks routine, refreshes perspective, and ignites the desire to come back — not to rush, but to linger.

Whether you’re chasing bears with a camera lens, hunting light across the mountains, or just hoping for a peaceful escape into nature, Banff and Jasper are places that leave a mark — and this short gateway reminded us just how much we need that kind of wild in our lives.

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