- Visit the 254m high Takakkaw Falls
- Travel north on the Icefields Parkway
- See some gorgeous turquoise lakes such as Peyto Lake along the route
- Hike up to Park Ridge with a view of glaciers
- Shower and dinner in Jasper
- Return in the last light of day
The alarm clock rings at seven in the morning. We have a bright and beautiful day ahead of us, so we start without breakfast. There is a direct route to Takakkaw Falls, one of the highlights of Yoho National Park. At 254 meters, the waterfall fed by the glacier above is one of the largest in Canada. Impressive as the huge masses of water tumble down the rock face. Close to the fall, it is cool from the icy spray.
We continue to Lake Louise, where we buy food for the day and fill the tank. Then we turn north on the world-famous Icefielsd Parkway. The 230 km long road is considered the gem of the Canadian Rockies. And we shouldn't be disappointed. The road follows the rivers of the Bow, Mistaya, North Saskatchewan, Sunwapta, Athabasca. It is mostly lined with dense coniferous forests, but also leads over passes, lookout points at rapids and waterfalls. Most impressive, however, are clearly the unique turquoise lakes such as Bow and Peyto Lake. The waters owe their splendor of color to the feeding glaciers. In particular, the viewpoint on Peyto Lake is absolutely magnificent.
At Mistaya Canyon we see how the river of the same name has carved its bed deep into the rocks. Shortly before the Sunwapta Pass we take a hike up to Parker Ridge. During the ascent, our gaze wanders over the valley below, at the top we see the valley below with a glacier. Now we leave Banff National Park and reach its northern neighbor: Jasper National Park. Immediately afterwards we reach the overly touristy Icefield Center. From here tours with special buses on the Athabasca Glacier can be undertaken. In our eyes a dubious pleasure. After a short photo stop, we continue north. On the other hand, the following stop at the Athabasca Falls is more beautiful. The previously sluggish and broad flowing river plunges thunderously through a narrow point in the rock.
Soon we will reach Jasper, the center of the national park. Here we go looking for a much needed shower. We'll find it in a multi-purpose hall. Tonight there is a game by the Edmonton Oilers' Top Prospects, which of course attracts visitors in droves to hockey-mad Canada. In the local brewery we eat a delicious burger before we have an ice cream for dessert. Now we're on our way back to the Honeymoon Lake Campground. Unfortunately, the hoped-for animal sightings do not materialize. But we experience a spectacular evening mood. A fire is lit in the camp and the silence is enjoyed.
