16 perspectives on Banff and Jasper National Parks, from the familiar view to details worth a closer look. Select a photograph to open it at full size.
Photographs show different viewpoints, dates and conditions. They do not establish current access to a particular route. Every image is credited below.
The Canadian Rockies are a network of valleys, lakes and high country, not a single roadside scene. A lake on a calm morning and a mountain pass in moving weather can feel like different destinations. Compare the shapes of the valleys and the colour of the water as you travel, but leave enough time to get out of the vehicle and experience one place slowly.
Choose bases around the activities you actually want, and check the current park reports for every important road or trail. A scenic driving day is still a travel day.