Glacier View Lodge is a luxurious haven overlooking the legendary Columbia Icefield, located in serene Jasper National Park.
The remote boutique retreat is also situated along one of the world's most scenic drives — the Icefields Parkway — amidst breathtaking natural wonders and iconic world-class attractions. Make Glacier View Lodge your Canadian Rockies base camp for an unforgettable adventure exploring Lake Louise and Jasper. Read on for an itinerary outlining the top activities and sights to experience.
Arrive at the Glacier View Lodge and check in to your cozy alpine-chic room with either a mountain or glacier view. Freshen up, stretch your legs by exploring the hotel, and take in the sweeping views of Athabasca Glacier. After settling in, head to the Moraine Lounge for a welcome reception and cocktail.
Embark on the Columbia Icefield VIP Adventure Experience. The exclusive, multi-day excursion begins with a private evening tour of the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a spectacular glass-floored observation platform jutting 280 metres over the Sunwapta Valley. For dinner, reserve glacier-side dining at Altitude Restaurant and feast on delicious Canadian Rockies-inspired fare made from locally sourced ingredients. Turn in early for a fresh start the next day.
Rise at first light, dine on a hearty breakfast from Altitude, then board the shuttle for your VIP guided tour of Athabasca Glacier. Spend the morning exploring the ancient sparkling ice, learning about the area's geology, history, wildlife and while taking a bazillion selfies in front of the bucket-list backdrop. Return to the lodge, grab a healthy takeaway lunch from Chalet and prepare for the ultimate self-guided adventure.
Hop in your car and head south, along the Icefields Parkway, to magical Lake Louise. The scenic drive takes about an hour and a half; however, you'll want to plan for plenty of stops along the way. First up is Mistaya Canyon for a gentle stroll with beautiful views of the Mistaya River, which carves through the unique rock formations.
Peyto Lake is the next iconic Insta-worthy Canadian Rockies scene to see. Follow the easy paved walking trail for about ten minutes, and you'll be gifted an epic view of the turquoise, glacial-fed stunner. Two additional natural attractions worth capturing are shimmering Bow Lake and the Crowfoot Glacier, located slightly further south.
Arrive at Lake Louise in time for an early-evening waterfront stroll or canoe rental. Then, dine overlooking the hallmark lake and Victoria Glacier at the Fairview Bar and Restaurant, located inside the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. After dinner, return along the Icefields Parkway, stopping for gas in Lake Louise Village or at The Crossing Resort — your last opportunity to fill the tank along the route. Once back at the Glacier View Lodge, enjoy complimentary evening entertainment in the lounge and stargazing on the viewing deck.
Wake up, pack up and check out for one final day of adventure. Grab breakfast to-go from Starbucks and choose to stop at one of two incredible waterfall destinations.
Your first option is to drive north along the Icefields Parkway towards Jasper and visit Sunwapta Falls. Pull into Sunwapta Rocky Mountain Lodge and enjoy the view of the easily accessible Upper Falls near the parking lot, or hike 1.8 kilometres to the Lower Falls.
Your second option is located just before Jasper at beautiful Athabasca Falls. The powerful Class 5 spectacle tumbles 23 metres off a cliff, making it one of the park’s top sights.
Having worked up an appetite from your busy morning, it’s time to head to Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen just outside of town for a delicious, quick and easy lunch to fuel your afternoon. Explore the neighbouring canyon and its network of trails and bridges to see even more of the beauty of Jasper.
Still have time? Head into town and wander through the many local shops for the perfect souvenir before heading home.
Can’t get enough of the Canadian Rockies? Stay an extra night in Jasper!
Once your hotel is sorted, head up to Pyramid Lake Lodge before dinner and rent a canoe or kayak from the lodge's boathouse to paddle amid the tranquil scene. Or, if time is tight, enjoy a walk along the lakeshore before heading to dine at Aalto. Enjoy dishes inspired by the now familiar scene just outside – from delicious seafood to locally-sourced culinary creations.
Ready to start planning your Glacier View Lodge escape? The VIP Adventure Experience books up quickly, so reserve your package today.
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