Columbia Icefield
The Columbia Icefield is an extremely important and visually stunning collection of glaciers that are uniquely referred to as a "hydrological apex". The melt water of the Icefield feeds streams and rivers that eventually empty into the Arctic, Atlantic, and Pacific oceans. The Icefield covers an area of 325 square kilometers and has one of the largest accumulations of snow and ice south of the Arctic circle. Eight major glaciers are fed from the Icefield, most of them are inaccessible, however the Athabasca Glacier is situated beside the main highway. Here you can get a real look at the formation of a glacier and experience how cold and inhospitable this landscape can be regardless of the time of year. This area provides a large chunk of Western North America with fresh water. Being in this environmentally sensitive area and seeing how this massive glacier has retreated so substantially in recent decades really hits home the importance of monitoring climate change and appreciating what will hopefully stay a pristine, natural wonder of nature.

Jasper
Jasper Townsite is located in the largest park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park. The town is a quiet laid back place with a few restaurants and pubs to go along with the local herds of big horn sheep that frequently roll through. The surrounding area offers visitors some true wilderness experiences with the possibility of seeing big horned sheep, elk, moose, wolves, and bears. Along with the wildlife that flourishes in this protected park there are some stunning waterfalls, beautiful pristine mountain lakes and untouched forests. Jasper has more of a wilderness outpost feel to it and the surrounding trails, lakes and rivers offer visitors the opportunity to really experience nature in an untouched mountainous environment. 

IceFields Parkway
The IceFields Parkway, that runs from the town of Jasper to the village of Lake Louise in the Canadian Rockies of Alberta, is arguably the most visually stunning drive in the world. The road runs through Jasper and Banff National Parks and offers towering mountains, massive alpine glaciers, pristine lakes and rivers, and if your lucky some spectacular wildlife. This route is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site that was recognized by UNESCO in 1984. It runs parallel to the Continental Divide, the backbone of the Canadian Rockies and anyone with an appreciation for breathtaking mountain scenery and remote untouched wilderness will leave wanting more. The drive itself can take 3 hours with no stops, but there are excellent view points and many natural sites that can make this a whole day adventure. You can also choose to stay in the many unique campsites along the way.

Lake Louise
Lake Louise is one of Canada's most visited locations and lays claim to being the most photographed spot in Canada. With Lake Louise surrounded by dramatic mountains and the Victoria Glacier clinging to a nearby cliff, you can see why. This beautiful location has gained international fame and people come from far and wide to gaze upon its magnificence. The hiking trails in the area are excellent with many paths becoming cross country skiing tracks during the winter months. Ice skating is possible on the lake for much of the year and the world class Lake Louise ski resort is only a quick drive away. Bus loads of tourists are brought in daily throughout the year to see one of Canada's showpieces, but don't let this take away from the experience. Leaving the main viewing area and walking to the end of the lake and beyond takes you into a world of tranquil silence and unmatched natural beauty.

Banff
Banff is often referred to as the "Grand Masterpiece" of the Canadian Rockies and its breathtaking location certainly lives up to the hype. Set in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in a beautiful valley surrounded by towering jagged peaks, Banff sits at an elevation of 1,383 meters making it the highest town in Canada. Whether skiing and snowboarding in the winter or hiking and enjoying the natural outdoors in the summer Banff offers great outdoor activities year round. Although pricey because of its popularity and location, Banff still has accommodation that can fit any budget from the castle like Fairmont Banff Springs to the party atmosphere youth hostels. The surrounding Banff National Park is Canada's oldest National Park and a spot that has been drawing visitors for well over one hundred years. Spend a few days to enjoy this beautiful mountain town and you won't be disappointed.