The Columbia Icefields. Breathtaking beauty on Highway 93.

Because of my extensive travels on the highway, particularily through the Canadian Rockies, I often get asked about what my favorite places are.  Without hesitation, it is Highway 93.  North and south from Jasper and Banff.  And in between, you have the Columbia Icefields.

The Icefields Parkway extends 230 kilometres, close to 150 miles, connecting Lake Louise to Jasper, Alberta. The Parkway starts just west of Lake Louise, Alberta, and extends north up the Bow valley, past Hector Lake, Bow Lake and Peyto Lake. The Parkway reaches the highest point at the Bow Summit (41 Kilometre’s north of the Highway 1 junction) at 2315 metre’s or 7, 600 feet. From there, highway continues north along the Mistaya River to Saskatchewan Crossing, where it converges with the Saskatchewan River. The North Saskatchewan River flows east from Saskatchewan Crossing, out of Banff National Park, into what is known as David Thompson country, and onto Edmonton Alberta.

Here are some facts about the Columbia Icefields: The Columbia Icefields are located in Jasper National Park. The Icefield – the largest sub-polar body of ice in North America – is one of the reasons why the United Nations declared Canada’s four rocky mountain parks “World heritage Sites”. The Icefield covers 325 square kilometres with solid ice up to 365 metres (1200 feet) deep. Melted water from the icefield flows to three oceans: Pacific, Arctic and Atlantic via Hudson Bay.

Please make note of the speed limit within most Provincial Parks. They can change without warning, but is usually 90 kilometre’s an hour with the exception of construction zones where it can be as low as 20 or 30 kilometre’s an hour. The Columbia Icefields Parkway is no exception. In the summer, there is a lot of RV and Motor Coach traffic. Pass with care and always show courtesy of pulling off to the side to let faster moving traffic through.

Where ever you decide to stop along the way, a definite must is the Columbia Icefield visitor Centre where you can experience, first hand, the thrill of walking on a glacier. Each adventure is led by an experienced and knowledgeable guide, who taps a wealth of fascinating research about the icefield. Adventure, education, a sense of wonder – all rolled into one incredible 90 – minute journey. Before you head out on your short ride up the hill to experience one of mother nature’s most incredible creations, be sure to dress appropriately. Good closed toed shoes are a must. A hat and heavier sweater or jacket. You may not need it, but because of the micro climate the glacier creates, the weather can change in an instance. Be prepared and keep warm.

Book your excursion well in advance to ensure an optimal “ice-time” as the locals call it. Toll Free: 1-877-423-7433. Prices: (2009) Adults $46.67 and Children $22.86. Children five and under ride for free. Ice Explorers depart every 15 – 30 minutes. The Chalet and tours run at varying hours from Spring to late summer approximately 9:00 – 5:00pm.

A few tips on your visit to the Columbia Icefields

•Make sure to park in the RV lot, not the Motor Coach lot, it can be confusing. Coming from Jasper, the first lot on the left as you arrive is the RV parking.

• Pack a lunch. The line-ups can be long and the buffet can be a bit over priced for what you get.

• The weather changes quickly. Make sure to have good shoes and a hat or scarf handy for your ride up the hill.

• Have water with you at all times. Remember, you are at

• Extremely high elevations. Keep yourself hydrated. Do not over exert yourself. At these elevations, the air is a little thinner. You have the whole day, take your time and enjoy.

• Make sure the battery in your camera is fully charged and you have lots of storage. You will be taking a lot of pictures today!!!!!

Travel Images http://www.westshoregalleries.ifp3.com/

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