From Calgary to the Clouds: The Most Breathtaking Mountain Drives in Alberta

One of the best and most iconic mountain drives from Calgary, Alberta is the route to Lake Louise via the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) — especially if you continue north toward Jasper. But even just getting to Banff and Lake Louise is a spectacular experience. Here are your top options, ranked for scenery, accessibility, and wow factor:

🏆 1. Calgary → Banff → Lake Louise → Icefields Parkway (to Jasper)

Route: Hwy 1 (Trans-Canada) west to Lake Louise → Hwy 93 North (Icefields Parkway)
Why it’s the best:

• World-famous for good reason — stunning peaks, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and wildlife.
• Highlights: Banff, Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, Athabasca Glacier, Columbia Icefield, Sunwapta Falls, Athabasca Falls.
• Ideal for day trips, weekend getaways, or full road trips.
• Consistently ranked among the most scenic drives in the world.
  

🥈 2. Calgary → Kananaskis Country (Highway 40 / Smith-Dorrien Trail)

Route: Hwy 1 west → Hwy 40 south through Kananaskis → Option to loop via Canmore on Smith-Dorrien Trail
Why it’s amazing:

• Less crowded than Banff, more rugged and wild.
• Highlights: Barrier Lake, Highwood Pass (highest paved pass in Canada), Spray Lakes, grizzly country.
• Gorgeous in late spring to fall (Highwood Pass section is closed in winter for wildlife).
  

🥉 3. Calgary → Yoho National Park (via Hwy 1 through Banff)

Route: Hwy 1 west → Past Lake Louise into Yoho, BC
Why it’s worth it:

• Often overshadowed by Banff, but Yoho offers less touristy but equally jaw-dropping beauty.
• Highlights: Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Spiral Tunnels, Natural Bridge.
• Quick to access from Lake Louise — ideal for a day trip from Calgary with some epic stops.
  

Honorable Mention:

🚗 Calgary → Canmore → Bow Valley Trail (Hwy 1A)

• Scenic, less rushed alternative to the Trans-Canada Highway.
• Quaint stops in Exshaw, Seebe, and cool local cafes in Canmore.
• Great for a half-day cruise or photography trip.

TL;DR:

🏞️ The Icefields Parkway (Lake Louise to Jasper) is the best mountain drive from Calgary — world-class views, endless highlights, and unforgettable stops.

Is your vehicle ready to tackle these mountain drives? Our expert staff can make sure you enjoy the drive, instead of breaking down in tough mountain conditions. Trust the ecxpets and book your vehicle maintenance with us today!

The Dale Adams Team.