Hiking the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park: The Greatest Hikes on Earth

The Icefields Parkway is a 232-kilometer (144-mile) highway that winds its way through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. It's one of the most scenic drives in the world, and it's also home to some of the best hiking trails on Earth.

The Icefields Parkway is open year-round, but the best time to hike is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the days are long. However, even in the winter, there are still some great hikes to be had, such as the Parker Ridge Trail, which offers stunning views of the snow-capped mountains.

Hiking the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park (The Greatest Hikes on Earth Book 21)

by Greater Than a Tourist

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
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If you're planning a hiking trip in Banff National Park, be sure to check out the Icefields Parkway. Here are a few of our favorite hikes:

The Plain of Six Glaciers

The Plain of Six Glaciers is a beautiful alpine meadow located at the foot of the Waputik Icefield. The trail to the Plain of Six Glaciers is a moderate 5.6-kilometer (3.5-mile) hike that takes about 2-3 hours to complete.

The trail begins at the Icefields Centre, where you can learn about the glaciers and the history of the area. From the Icefields Centre, the trail follows a well-maintained path through a forest of lodgepole pines. After about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles),the trail emerges from the forest and onto the Plain of Six Glaciers.

The Plain of Six Glaciers is a breathtaking sight. The meadow is surrounded by six glaciers, including the Athabasca Glacier, the Dome Glacier, and the Stutfield Glacier. The views from the Plain of Six Glaciers are simply stunning, and it's a great place to have a picnic lunch or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

The Parker Ridge Trail

The Parker Ridge Trail is a challenging but rewarding hike that offers stunning views of the Canadian Rockies. The trail is a 7.6-kilometer (4.7-mile) loop hike that takes about 3-4 hours to complete.

The trail begins at the Parker Ridge Trailhead, which is located about 15 kilometers (9 miles) south of the Icefields Centre. From the trailhead, the trail climbs steadily through a forest of lodgepole pines. After about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles),the trail emerges from the forest and onto a ridge.

The views from the ridge are simply breathtaking. You'll have panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies, including Mount Victoria, Mount Edith Cavell, and the Saskatchewan Glacier. The trail continues along the ridge for about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles),before descending back into the forest.

The Parker Ridge Trail is a challenging hike, but it's well worth the effort. The views from the ridge are simply stunning, and it's a great way to experience the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

The Sulphur Mountain Trail

The Sulphur Mountain Trail is a popular hike that offers stunning views of Banff. The trail is a 5.8-kilometer (3.6-mile) return hike that takes about 2-3 hours to complete.

The trail begins at the Banff Gondola Lower Terminal. From the Lower Terminal, the trail follows a well-maintained path through a forest of lodgepole pines. After about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles),the trail emerges from the forest and onto a ridge.

The views from the ridge are simply breathtaking. You'll have panoramic views of Banff, the Bow Valley, and the Canadian Rockies. The trail continues along the ridge for about 3 kilometers (1.8 miles),before descending back into the forest.

The Sulphur Mountain Trail is a popular hike, so it can be crowded during the summer months. However, it's still a great way to experience the beauty of Banff and the Canadian Rockies.

The Icefields Parkway is home to some of the best hiking trails on Earth. If you're planning a hiking trip to Banff National Park, be sure to check out the Plain of Six Glaciers, the Parker Ridge Trail, and the Sulphur Mountain Trail. You won't be disappointed.

Hiking the Icefields Parkway in Banff National Park (The Greatest Hikes on Earth Book 21)

by Greater Than a Tourist

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	15909 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	123 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE