Columbia Icefields

Our journey to the Columbia Icefields was definitely a highlight of the trip, with the scenic highway leading us through some of the most breathtaking landscapes I’ve ever seen. The drive from Banff to Jasper, along the Icefields Parkway is ranked among the top road trips in the world. Along the drive, you’ll see mountains and glaciers rise dramatically overhead while wildlife roams freely. The drive itself was an adventure, as we marveled at the towering mountains and crystal-clear lakes along the way. One of our pit stops included a quick hike near Lake Louise, where the snowfall added to the already picturesque scenery. It was the perfect opportunity to break out my beanie and immerse myself in the winter wonderland to begin my summer. Despite the icy conditions making the ascent tricky, the camaraderie among fellow hikers was heartwarming. We all lent a helping hand to each other, and along the way, and even discovered an easier path down!

As we continued our journey, anticipation built as I caught my first glimpse of a glacier. The sight of the glacier was nothing short of beautiful, a testament to the power of nature. At the visitor center, we went straight to the glacier museum, learning everything we could. Glaciers, I discovered, are not just frozen masses of ice—they’re dynamic, constantly moving entities that shape the landscapes around them over thousands of years.

With our minds brimming with newfound knowledge and appreciation for these natural wonders, we resumed our journey back up the highway. Each twist and turn of the road offered another breathtaking vista, reminding us of the incredible beauty of the world we inhabit.