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8 Can't-Miss Adventures In The Canadian Rockies

Picturesque views around every corner

By: Tiffany Nguyen + Save to a List

Picking your next travel destination is never an easy task when there's an infinite amount of places that are worth checking off your list. However, this time around, the choice was clear. Having seen hundreds of photos and hearing dozens upon dozens of stories from adventurers like myself, the Canadian Rockies were at the top of my travel bucket list.

These world-class mountains have just about everything a photographer or traveler could be looking for. Not only are some of the most beautiful attractions easily accessible, but it also offers some equally incredible lesser-known views that you have to work for. It's always been a dream of mine to road trip through Alberta to experience the Canadian Rockies for myself. What drew me to the Rockies were the incredibly varied mountain peaks and ranges, glacier fed lakes with colors more brilliant than any I had ever seen, countless overflowing waterfalls, and picturesque views around every corner.

Many places struggle to live up to the idyllic scenes captured by skilled photographers, but this place left me with my jaw on the floor around every corner. The unmatched beauty of its landscape absolutely blew my expectations out of the water. Here are my top 8 adventures in the Canadian Rockies you don't want to miss!

1. Cave Dwelling at Johnston Canyon

Photo: Tiffany Nguyen

Sometimes going off trail will take you to some of the most incredible places. Step foot into this cave and onto another planet as you take in the otherworldly view. Learn more.

2. Explore the Icefields Parkway

Photo: Tiffany Nguyen

The Icefields Parkway is hands down one of the most scenic roads in the world. Skating it was even more epic! Learn more.

3. Kayak Moraine Lake

Photo: Tiffany Nguyen

Kayaking on Moraine Lake really allows you to appreciate how grand this lake really is as you get closer to the trademark peaks that tower high above. You’ll want to head here early to have it all to yourself. Learn more.

4. Catch a sunrise at Two Jack Lake

Photo: Tiffany Nguyen

You can never go wrong with a sunrise session at Two Jack Lake. This spot offers tons of top-notch angles to photograph. Learn more.

5. Explore Sunwapta Falls

Photo: Tiffany Nguyen

Mother Nature can leave you speechless sometimes and this is definitely one of those spots. Watching the water rush around the perfectly placed island and crash down the falls just downstream is an experience I'll never forget. Learn more.

6. Take in the epic views of Lake O’Hara

Photo: Tiffany Nguyen

Lake O’Hara is one of those untouched places that is just bursting with natural beauty. Epic views for days with no crowds makes this place one of my favorites. Learn more.

7. Find the perfect spot to hang out at Peyto Lake

Photo: Tiffany Nguyen

Could there be a more perfect spot to hammock? I don’t think so. Learn more.

8. Live life on the edge at Crescent Falls

Photo: Tiffany Nguyen

Perched over the edge of these falls, the sheer power is enough to take your breath away. If you’re not living life on the edge, you’re taking up too much space. Learn more.

Don't see your favorite Canadian Rockies adventure on The Outbound? Show us by creating an adventure.

Remember to always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to brush up on LNT principles for backcountry fires as well.

We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on. Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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