If this is your first time heading to Jasper, you might also find my First-Time Guide to Jasper National Park helpful. It breaks down what to do once you arrive, especially if you are visiting with kids.
A must-stop along the Icefields Parkway! This stunning glacier-fed lake offers crystal-clear reflections of the surrounding mountains. Even just pulling over for a few minutes is worth it. I highly recommend you stop here
📍 Tip: The best views are in the morning when the water is calm and glassy.
Hands down, one of the most famous lakes in Canada! Its bright turquoise colour looks surreal, and the lookout point is an easy walk from the parking lot.
📍 Tip: The best views are from the newly upgraded Bow Summit Lookout.
A beautiful double-drop waterfall with an island right in the middle, making it one of the most photographed spots in Jasper. It’s an easy, short walk to the viewpoint, so it’s great for all ages.
📍 Tip: If you have time, take the short hike to the lower falls for a quieter experience.
One of the most powerful waterfalls in Jasper! The sheer force of the water carving through the canyon is so impressive, and the easy walking trails make it super accessible.
📍 Tip: There are multiple viewpoints, so take your time exploring.
If you love chasing waterfalls as much as we do, you’ll also enjoy our Elbow Falls Day Trip from Calgary. It’s one of our easiest and most refreshing family outings. A perfect quick escape for a sunny day.
Okay, if you’re up for a thrill, this is it! The glass-floored observation walkway hangs over the Sunwapta Valley, giving you insane views of the mountains and glaciers below. Not for the faint of heart, but so worth it!
📍 Tip: If you book a tour at the Columbia Icefield, the Skywalk is included.
A peaceful, family-friendly stop with stunning reflections of Pyramid Mountain on the water. The wooden bridge leading to the tiny island is one of Jasper’s most photogenic spots.
📍 Tip: Perfect for a picnic break or just a moment to soak in the beauty.
One of Jasper’s top hikes! The deep limestone gorge, cascading waterfalls, and six scenic bridges make it an adventure for all ages. We only did part of the trail, but even that was totally worth it!
📍 Tip: Visit in the winter for frozen waterfalls and ice walks!
After all the exploring, this was the perfect way to relax! The steaming hot mineral pools with mountain views made for such a peaceful and refreshing stop.
📍 Tip: Go in the evening for a sunset soak. Absolute bliss!
No Jasper trip is complete without wildlife sightings! We saw a bighorn sheep, and even a bear (from a safe distance, of course). Jasper is one of the best places in Canada for wildlife encounters!
📍 Tip: Drive early morning or late evening for the best chances of spotting animals.
Before heading home, we stopped in downtown Jasper for some food, coffee, and light shopping. It’s a cute, cozy mountain town with a laid-back vibe and stunning views everywhere you look.
📍 Tip: Grab a bite at one of the local cafés or bakeries, so worth it!
- How long is the drive from Calgary to Jasper? The drive from Calgary to Jasper typically takes about 4.5 to 5 hours without stops. However, most travellers plan for a full day or weekend to allow time for scenic stops along the Icefields Parkway.
- Is the Icefields Parkway family-friendly? Yes, the Icefields Parkway is very family-friendly. Many viewpoints, lakes, and waterfalls are easily accessible from parking areas, making it suitable for kids of all ages.
- Can you do the Calgary to Jasper drive in one day? It is possible to drive from Calgary to Jasper in one day, but stopping at key attractions makes the experience much more enjoyable. Many families prefer to spread the drive over two days or turn it into a weekend trip.
- What is the best time of year to visit Jasper National Park? The best time to visit Jasper is from late spring to early fall when most roads, trails, and attractions are open. Summer offers the easiest driving conditions, while fall brings fewer crowds and beautiful seasonal colours.
Jasper never disappoints. From breathtaking lakes and powerful waterfalls to those surprise wildlife moments that make every stop special. It’s one of those drives that reminds you just how beautiful Alberta really is.
If you’re planning your next family road trip, make sure these 10 scenic stops are on your list; you’ll thank yourself later! You might also love our Ultimate Alberta Family Adventure Bucket List, filled with ideas for scenic drives, hidden gems, and family-friendly places to explore across the province. And of course, I made a fun reel of our trip. Check it out on Instagram here 🎥
Your Turn: Have you taken a road trip from Calgary to Jasper before? I would love to know your favourite stops along the way. Share them in the comments or tag me on Instagram @adventures.with.wems
That will be all from me today. Thank you for stopping by my little corner of the internet. Until next time… Xoxo 💋
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