Back To Nature: 10 Unmissable Experiences In The Canadian Rockies

Extending along the border between British Columbia and Alberta, the Canadian Rockies are brimming with incredible wildlife, breathtaking views and lakes so blue they look Photoshopped. They also cover a lot of ground. If you’re planning on visiting this particularly photogenic part of the world for the first time, here are 10 experiences you won’t want to skip!

Between Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake, Emerald Lake and Maligne Lake, the Canadian Rockies are blessed with some of the world’s most iconic lakes. Though beautiful from every angle (seriously, we dare you to try and take a bad photo!), one of the best ways to explore Canada’s lakes is from right on top of them. Canoeing is our activity of choice, the perfect balance of adventure and tranquillity.

Ever wonder what gives the lakes that distinct turquoise colour? They’re glacier-fed, which means that glacial rock flour – the sediments found in melted glacier water – runs into the lakes and this causes those vibrant blue-green hues!

It's known as one of the most picturesque drives in the world for a reason, plus it’s the best way to get from Lake Louise to Jasper. The Icefields Parkway is 232km of scenery you won’t want to miss. From stunning lakes to imposing glacier-capped mountains, this is definitely no time for napping in the car! Popular stops along the way include Peyto Lake, the Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Falls.

Banff Avenue, the vibrant main street in the town of Banff, is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs, enjoy a hot chocolate and admire the iconic Cascade Mountain. You’ll find shops selling outdoor gear, Christmas ornaments, gifts and homewares, plus an endless supply of Banff merch. There are also two restaurants dedicated to BeaverTails, so if you haven’t tried this Canadian delicacy yet now’s the perfect time. The pastry dessert is delicious, messy and 100% worth it!

If the canoeing was a little too tame for you, try white water rafting down Kicking Horse River in British Columbia! Wiggle into your wet suit, strap on your helmet and hang on for dear life as you paddle down the river, encountering rapids ranging from class two to four. We know you’ll want to keep your eyes on the upcoming twists and turns, but don’t forget to look around at the view every now and then. It’s a pretty specular way to experience the Canadian Rockies.

How often do you get the opportunity to walk on a glacier? One of six glaciers fed by the Columbia Icefield, the Athabasca Glacier is the most accessible and the perfect place to go glacier walking. Your guide will help you attach your crampons – little metal spikes that go on your shoes and help you walk on the ice without slipping – and then tell you all about Canada’s long glacial history while you walk right on top of it.

As you approach the glacier, take note of the markers in the ground highlighting how far it has receded over time. In the last 125 years, the Athabasca Glacier has receded over 1.5km and is at about half of its original volume. The markers serve as a confronting reminder that these glaciers are slowly disappearing and won’t be around forever.

No trip to Banff is complete without a gondola ride, so sit back and relax as you rise above the trees and climb 700m to the summit of Sulphur Mountain. Once at the top, enjoy uninterrupted views from the boardwalk, explore Sanson’s Peak or learn about the park at the Above Banff Interpretive Centre.

At close to 400m tall, Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada and is a must-see attraction while exploring the Rockies. Thanks to the geography of the area, it’s possible to get quite close to the falls and it's an experience that’s loud, misty and magnificent – just make sure you pack your raincoat!

The Canadian Rockies are home to some amazing wildlife and while you should never approach or feed the animals, you may be lucky enough to spot moose, elk, black and grizzly bears, bald eagles, deer and mountain goats on your travels.

Always observe from a safe distance and if you see a bear while driving, don’t cause what’s known as a ‘bear jam’. Instead, slowly drive past or safely pull over if you can. See the Government of Canada’s website for information on bear safety and roadside bear viewing to keep yourself and the bears safe.

Jasper National Park is one of the biggest dark sky preserves in the world and the Annual Jasper Dark Sky Festival takes place every October to celebrate! No matter what time of year you visit, the Canadian Rockies boast some of the darkest skies around so after a long day of kayaking, hiking, ice walking or rafting don’t forget to look up.

Ready to take off to experience Canada's unique wildlife, breathtaking views and lakes so blue they look photoshopped?