Things to do in Canadian Rockies

Jasper National Park is a natural wonderland of untamed mountain peaks, remote lakes and imposing glaciers. Jasper is lesser known to tourists than nearby Banff National Park, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to escape the crowds and connect with nature. Walk across glaciers, camp beside picturesque lakes and enjoy multi-day excursions along the park’s extensive backcountry trails.

Yoho National Park encompasses a section of the Canadian Rockies, where jagged mountain peaks zigzag into pristine river valleys. Discover astonishing lookouts, geological wonders and tranquil forests as you drive, hike or ski through the landscape. Covering an area of 507 square miles (1,313 square kilometers), Yoho National Park packs heritage sites, fascinating fossil deposits and 28 peaks over 9,800 feet (3,000 meters) into its UNESCO World Heritage-listed expanse.

Moraine Lake is one of the most photographed scenes in Canada. The “Twenty Dollar View” takes in the turquoise lake and ten surrounding mountains. The vista was once the picture on the back of 20-dollar notes in Canada, and the nickname stuck.

Some of the best views in the Canadian Rockies can be enjoyed from the top of Sulphur Mountain. Take the Banff Gondola to the summit. The eight-minute ride offers spectacular views from a glass-enclosed cabin. The Summit Complex at the end of the gondola ride has restaurants, a gift shop and multiple viewing platforms. Look out over six different mountain ranges, through valleys and down onto the town of Banff.

Find adventure sports, breathtaking mountain scenery and wildlife at Lake Louise Ski Resort. Ski on challenging trails, enjoy a scenic gondola ride or hike through forests seeking wildlife. The resort is within Banff National Park, part of the Canadian Rockies. It offers over 4,200 acres (1,670 hectares) of skiable terrain, exquisite dining and lively après-ski entertainment.

Upper Hot Springs is a thermal pool within the gorgeous landscapes of Banff National Park. Come here to relax in the geothermally heated and bubbling mineral water that flows from the Earth’s crust through the Sulphur Mountain Thrust Fault. Marvel at panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains as the therapeutic water cleanses and soothes your body. Have a scenic picnic or eat at the café at Upper Hot Springs.