Icefields Parkway and Peyto Lake

The Icefields Parkway runs for about 230 kilometres between Lake Louise and Jasper through the heart of the Rockies, past hanging glaciers, waterfalls and lakes the colour of gemstones. There are no towns along the way, just a handful of lodges and viewpoints.

Peyto Lake, a short walk from the road, is the most photographed stop, its bright blue water shaped like a wolf's head. Further north, at the Columbia Icefield, special all-terrain vehicles drive onto the Athabasca Glacier, and the glass-floored Skywalk juts out over the Sunwapta Valley.

Allow a full day with stops. Fill the tank before leaving, as fuel is limited, and carry snacks and water, since mobile signal is patchy for long stretches. Watch for elk, mountain goats and even bears near the road, but always stay in the car.