Banff to Jasper Itinerary for 3, 5, or 7 Days of Scenic Road Tripping
If you’re planning a trip between Banff and Jasper, this guide breaks down exactly how to explore the Icefields Parkway in 3, 5, or 7 days. Whether you’re short on time or in it for the long haul, these itineraries are built around the best stops, hikes, and views between two of Canada’s most iconic national parks.
The drive from Banff to Jasper isn’t just about distance. It’s about pace. Most people rush it and miss what makes this route unforgettable. If you’re looking to actually experience the Rockies, not just pass through, these itineraries will help you do exactly that.
Why Take Your Time on the Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway spans 230 kilometers through glacier valleys, turquoise lakes, and wildlife-rich forests. But it’s not the kind of road you just drive. Every few kilometers offers a new reason to pull over. With the right amount of time, this becomes more than a scenic route – it becomes the highlight of your trip.
When to Visit Banff and Jasper
Best Time to Drive the Icefields Parkway
The best months for a Banff to Jasper road trip are June through early October. Snow can linger into May, and the Icefields Parkway can be icy or closed during winter months. July and August offer full trail access but come with crowds. For fall colors and fewer tourists, September is ideal.
Best Hikes on the Icefields Parkway
Top Hikes Between Banff and Jasper
- Wilcox Pass – Glacier views without the crowds
- Parker Ridge Trail – Short, steep, and worth it
- Valley of the Five Lakes – Easy and scenic near Jasper
- Mistaya Canyon – Quick stop with dramatic payoff
- Helen Lake – Moderate half-day hike with alpine views
Wildlife to Watch For
Wildlife on the Icefields Parkway
You may spot grizzly bears, elk, mountain goats, moose, and even bighorn sheep along the road. Drive slowly, especially at dawn and dusk, and never feed or approach wildlife.
3 Day Banff to Jasper Itinerary
Best for: Travelers who want the top highlights with time for short hikes and photo stops.
Day 1: Banff to Bow Lake
- Start early at Lake Louise or Moraine Lake
- Stop at Bow Lake and Peyto Lake
- Optional: Mistaya Canyon for a short trail
- Overnight near Rampart Creek or Saskatchewan River Crossing
Day 2: Columbia Icefield
- Hike Wilcox Pass or the Toe of the Glacier Trail
- Optional: Visit the Glacier Skywalk or Icefield Centre
- Stop at Sunwapta Falls and Tangle Creek Falls
- Overnight near Athabasca Falls or Jasper town
Day 3: Jasper Highlights
- Visit Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake
- Optional boat cruise to Spirit Island or a paddle
- Short hike at Valley of the Five Lakes
- Wind down in Jasper or continue north
5 Day Banff to Jasper Itinerary
Best for: Travelers who want time for hiking, photography, and quieter moments.
Day 1: Banff and Surroundings
- Explore Banff town and Tunnel Mountain or Vermilion Lakes
- Overnight in Banff
Day 2: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
- Visit both lakes early
- Hike to Lake Agnes Teahouse or Plain of Six Glaciers
- Overnight in Lake Louise area or Field
Day 4: Glaciers and Waterfalls
- Hike Wilcox Pass or Toe of the Glacier Trail
- Visit Sunwapta Falls and Athabasca Falls
- Overnight in Jasper
Day 5: Explore Jasper
- Visit Maligne Lake and Maligne Canyon
- Optional: Miette Hot Springs or Jasper SkyTram
- Overnight in Jasper
7 Day Banff to Jasper Itinerary
Best for: Slow travelers, photographers, families, or anyone wanting to experience it all.
Day 1: Banff Town
- Explore Banff Avenue, Bow Falls, and Tunnel Mountain
- Optional: Banff Gondola or Whyte Museum
- Overnight in Banff
Day 2: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
- Early visit to both lakes
- Hike to Lake Agnes or Larch Valley
- Overnight in Lake Louise or nearby
Day 3: Bow Lake and Peyto Lake
- Visit Bow Lake and Crowfoot Glacier
- Short hike to Peyto Lake viewpoint
- Stop at Mistaya Canyon
- Overnight at Rampart Creek
Day 4: Icefields Region
- Hike Wilcox Pass or Toe of the Glacier Trail
- Optional: Glacier Skywalk
- Overnight near the Columbia Icefield
Day 5: Drive to Jasper with Stops
- Visit Sunwapta Falls, Tangle Creek, and Athabasca Falls
- Scenic drive to Jasper
- Overnight in Jasper
Day 6: Maligne Valley
- Visit Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake
- Optional: Boat cruise or hike Bald Hills
- Overnight in Jasper
Day 7: Hot Springs and Departure
- Morning soak at Miette Hot Springs
- Final photo stops at Pyramid Lake or Jasper SkyTram
- Depart from Jasper
Final Tips for the Drive
- Pack snacks and water as services are limited along the Parkway
- Start early to avoid crowds at popular stops
- Download offline maps since reception is spotty
- Bring layers, even in summer – mountain weather shifts fast
Making the Most of Your Banff to Jasper Itinerary
No matter how long you have, planning the right Banff to Jasper itinerary can make or break your trip. Whether you’re following a 3 day road trip, taking a more relaxed 5 day itinerary, or diving deep with a 7 day Icefields Parkway journey, the key is to slow down and explore beyond the tourist checklists.
From iconic stops like Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, and the Columbia Icefield, to quieter gems like Wilcox Pass, Maligne Canyon, and Bow Lake, this route offers more than just pretty views – it’s a chance to connect with the Rockies on your own terms.
Choose the itinerary that fits your pace, and let the road from Banff to Jasper do the rest.
Looking for more Canadian road trip ideas or travel tips? Check out some of my other blog posts for guides to Vancouver, Whistler, and hidden gems across British Columbia. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer adventure, you’ll find detailed itineraries, photo inspiration, and honest advice to help you make the most of your trip.
