Auto Touring

If driving's your thing, there are plenty of scenic roads that can easily take you up-close to the park's stunning turquoise lakes, glaciers, wildlife and high-mountain scenery. The Icefields Parkway runs 232 kilometers (144 miles) along the Continental Divide, from the bottoms of valleys to alpine passes. Along this route you can pass by glaciers and waterfalls, and perhaps even stop at some wildlife viewing areas for a peek. The Bow Valley Parkway runs 48 kilometers (30 miles) from the Town of Banff to the Village of Lake Louise, and the richest eco-zone in the entire park with exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. A local favorite is the Lake Minnewanka Loop that starts from the Town of Banff and circles for 24 kilometers (15 miles) with excellent wildlife viewing at dawn and dusk, and plenty of meadows, picnic spots and places to stretch your legs. These drives are open year-round, but be aware that road closures may occur due to weather and wildlife.