Canadian Rockies
Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper and Yoho, with the hikes, splurges and stops we thought were actually worth the time.
Where the expensive stay changes the experience
Moraine Lake Lodge
Why one night was worth the splurge, and why sunset mattered more than sunrise.
Which Fairmont Is Worth It?
Lake Louise vs. Banff Springs vs. Jasper Park Lodge.
Maligne Lake Cruise
Spirit Island, glacier views and a great break from hiking.
Where we would spend the effort
Iceline Trail
Hard climb, close glaciers and Takakkaw Falls views. We would do it again even in smoke.
Big Beehive + Plain of Six Glaciers
The Lake Louise hiking day we would recommend.
Sunshine Meadows
Wildflowers, gondola access and whether the ticket price is worth it.
Icefields Parkway
Best Stops on the Icefields Parkway
Peyto, Parker Ridge, Wilcox, Mistaya, Athabasca Falls and what can be lower priority.
Parker Ridge
One of our top hikes: enormous Saskatchewan Glacier views for surprisingly little effort.
Wilcox Pass
A spectacular first viewpoint—or continue into open alpine terrain for 360° views and bighorn sheep.
Peyto Lake
The five-minute trick that got us away from the main platform crowd.
Johnston Canyon
Why we thought Banff's famous canyon hike was overrated when crowded.