What you should know before driving the Icefields Parkway
Updated: May 6, 2024
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The Icefields Parkway is the notoriously picturesque route between the towns of Jasper and Banff in Alberta. This past December, I made the drive, going from Jasper to Banff.
While this road has some incredible views, your journey may not be a positive one if you do not adequately prepare, as there are many different variables involved in this drive, especially in the winter.
Fill up your tank and empty your bladder first
Throughout this post, you will begin to realize how remote this drive really is. There are no gas stations, bathrooms, or anything for that matter on this drive. That means it's important to prepare by filling up your gas tank, using the bathroom, and grabbing some snacks or a meal before you set off.
No cellphone service
Due to the remoteness of this route, there is also no cellphone service for a large portion of the drive. Make sure to make any important calls or texts before you leave, and download music or movies beforehand.
Pick some lookoff points where you want to stop
On a more positive note, the route has many amazing viewpoints. When I did the drive, I had done some research about the best viewpoints, but I didn't save their location and had no service to look them up during the drive.
I would recommend checking out the route on Google Maps and selecting some viewpoints you may want to stop at. Once you decide where you may like to stop, write down the names of these viewpoints so you don't forget during your drive.
The picture above is from the Stutfield Glacier Viewpoint, which is one I'd definitely recommend checking out.
All wheel drive is recommended (especially in winter)
The conditions of the road can get quite bad in the wintertime. We personally did the drive in a rented truck, and there were many points where I felt anxious about the road conditions. In addition to there often being layers of snow and ice on the road, the route takes you through the mountains, so there are steep inclines and declines as well as cliffs on the side of the road.
Due to the remoteness and lack of cellphone service, calling a tow truck can be extremely difficult if you end up in the ditch, so it's best to do everything you can to avoid accidents.
Check 511 for road conditions
Sometimes, due to weather and the logistic difficulties of plowing the road, the road can be closed. The 511 website or phone number can provide detailed information on road conditions and closures. I recommend checking out the website before setting off on your journey and making a note of points where conditions may not be good, as you won't be able to check or call again once you're on route due to the lack of service.
The 511 website can be found here
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