For a more intimate connection with the Rockies, take the Bow Valley Parkway, a scenic 48-kilometer road that meanders alongside the Bow River. This route is a fantastic, slower-paced alternative to the main highway, offering incredible opportunities to spot wildlife like elk, deer, and even bears, especially during the early morning or evening hours. You'll find numerous pull-offs for photos and access to iconic trails, including the popular Johnston Canyon. In the spring and fall, a large section of the parkway closes to cars, transforming it into a world-class cycling path. Notable views also include Castle Mountain.

You'll need a Parks Pass to drive along this road. Near Lake Louise you can find the iconic train spot, however, be warned there are no time tables to plan when a train may pass. It is a waiting game through and through.