This post takes place between the events at Lake Louise. Icefield Parkway is strip of highway that runs through the Canadian Rockies and is considered to be one of the most scenic drives in the entire world. With various stops along its length, we were only able to make to Herbert Lake, Bow Lake and its Glacial Falls, and Peyto Lake. Our first stop was Herbert Lake, which was only a few minutes into the parkway drive. The lake was beautiful with the surrounding tree line and mountains but after seeing Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, it was no comparison (sorry Herbert). After leaving Herbert Lake, we made our way to Bow Lake. This lake I found to be really unique from anything I had seen up to that point in Banff. A massive lake, Bow Lake, was spread out before what appeared to be beach shoreline. Across its length is a solitary peak that caught some beautiful afternoon light. A few elected to on a Bow Falls hike, which was underestimated and ended up hiking for more miles than we expected. For the first portion of the hike, you traverse the circumference of the lake, which provides a great introduction to the body of water. We soon reached this rocky plain (it's the only way I can describe it). For a number of miles you walk across a mixture of gravel and large rocks that span out between the tree line and the feeding stream to Bow Lake. Following the stream we began to climb up a rise. Hearing the falls alerted us to nearing destination. Climbing the last portion we were greeted with a far off view of Bow Falls. After taking in the view with encouragement from the hundreds of mosquitos that were swarming us, we headed back to Bow Lake. From Bow Lake, we drove to our final destination of Icefield Parkway, Peyto Lake. Next to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake is possibly the next iconic lake of the area. From the parking lot, you climb a paved walkway to a popular overlook of the glowing lake. This aerial view helps show the actual color of the lake, which is unbelievable. It's still hard to believe that water can be that tone. Below you can see photos from Icefield Parkway. I hope you enjoy.
This felt like a road trip song and thus appropriate for the post. Enjoy!