5-Day Summer Canadian Rockies Journey: Jasper to Banff Featuring Lakes, Icefields, Canyons, and Scenic Towns

Day 1: Jasper Exploration

Jasper, Canada on July 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Jasper Brewing Company

Start your first summer day in Jasper with a locally inspired breakfast and fresh coffee, ideal to energize for outdoor adventures.
CAD15, 1h

9:30am

Maligne Canyon Walk

Explore the famous limestone gorge of Maligne Canyon, admiring deep waterfalls and dramatic cliffs on well-maintained trails open 8am–10pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Patricia Street Deli

Enjoy fresh deli sandwiches and salads in Jasper’s vibrant town centre.
CAD20, 1h

1:30pm

Medicine Lake Visit

Visit Medicine Lake to witness the unique seasonal lake drainage phenomenon set amid beautiful forested surroundings.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Maligne Lake Cruise

Take the iconic 90-minute Maligne Lake boat cruise to Spirit Island for stunning views and photo opportunities; cruises run between 9am-7pm in July.
CAD80, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at The Raven Bistro

Enjoy fresh, locally sourced meals in this popular Jasper bistro, offering a mix of Canadian and international dishes.
CAD40, 1h30m

Day 2: Icefields, Golden & Emerald Lake

Columbia Icefields, Golden, Emerald Lake, Canada on July 21, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Bear's Paw Bakery

Enjoy fresh pastries and coffee to gear up for a day that includes glacier exploration and mountain lakes.
CAD12, 45m

8:00am

Columbia Icefields Discovery Centre and Glacier Adventure

Visit the Discovery Centre and explore the Athabasca Glacier on a thrilling Ice Explorer vehicle tour, operating 8am to 7pm in summer.
CAD95, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at Glacier View Lodge

Relax with hearty fare and glacier views before continuing southward.
CAD25, 1h

1:30pm

Stop at Emerald Lake

Enjoy a peaceful walk around Emerald Lake or rent a canoe to admire its turquoise waters surrounded by stunning mountains.
CAD15 for canoe rental optional, 1h30m

3:30pm

Explore Golden town

Stroll Golden’s charming downtown and enjoy the relaxed alpine atmosphere before dinner.
Free, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Woods Restaurant

Dine on rustic Canadian cuisine highlighting regional ingredients in a warm lodge ambiance.
CAD40, 1h30m

Day 3: Lake Louise & Moraine Lakes

Lake Louise and Lake Moraine, Canada on July 22, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at The Station Restaurant

Enjoy a nutritious breakfast in Lake Louise village to prepare for exploration of iconic alpine lakes.
CAD18, 1h

9:00am

Lake Louise Visit

Experience the breathtaking beauty of glacial turquoise Lake Louise; start early to beat the peak crowds and secure parking.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at Lake Louise Village Grill & Bar

Casual lunch with a varied menu in the village, perfect for refueling before the next scenic stop.
CAD25, 1h

1:00pm

Lake Moraine

Visit Lake Moraine’s Valley of the Ten Peaks, famous for striking blue waters and alpine hiking trails.
Free, 1h30m

3:00pm

Optional Hikes or Relaxation

Choose between leisurely lakeside walks or short hikes around Lake Louise area or enjoy a relaxing coffee break.
Free to low cost, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Maple Leaf

Indulge in upscale Canadian dishes featuring Alberta beef and fresh local products in a cozy atmosphere.
CAD45, 1h30m

Day 4: Banff Adventures

Banff, Canada on July 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Tooloulou's

Diverse breakfast menu with locally sourced ingredients to kick off your time in Banff.
CAD15, 1h

9:30am

Banff Gondola Ride

Ride the gondola to Sulphur Mountain’s summit for panoramic views; operates 8am to 10pm July through September.
CAD60, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Sky Bistro

Lunch with spectacular mountain vistas at the top of the gondola offering fresh Canadian cuisine.
CAD35, 1h

1:30pm

Hike Johnston Canyon

Walk safely on catwalks above waterfalls and through canyon during this popular trail, open dawn to dusk.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Banff Avenue Shopping and Café Break

Explore local shops, galleries and enjoy a coffee break in Banff’s lively downtown core.
Variable, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Bear Street Tavern

Finish the day with wood-fired pizzas and craft beers in this vibrant and popular Banff tavern.
CAD30, 1h

Day 5: Banff Departure

Banff, Canada on July 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wild Flour Bakery

Enjoy fresh-baked breads and pastries with excellent coffee as your final meal in Banff.
CAD15, 1h

9:30am

Optional Morning Stroll in Banff Park

If time permits, enjoy a gentle walk along Bow River Trails or visit Banff Park Museum before departure.
Free, 1h

11:00am

Departure

Prepare for your onward journey from Banff, reflecting on your memorable Rockies adventure.
Variable, N/A