Top Alberta Nature Parks in 2026

Take in the incredible landscape of Jasper National Park from on high with this visit to the Glacier Skywalk and transfer from Columbia Icefield. Feel the adrenaline rush of stepping out onto the glass-bottomed, 1,312-foot long (400-meter) walkway, perched 1,000 feet (304 meters) above the floor of the Sunwapta Valley, offering unobstructed vistas of the snow-capped mountains and valleys beyond.

Feast your eyes on spectacular views of Sunshine Village, a premier ski destination located in Banff National Park, with a chairlift and gondola combo ticket. This package deal grants you access to an 8-passenger gondola and the Mt. Standish chairlift, destined for the Standish Viewing Platform, saving you time waiting to buy tickets on the day. At the park’s highest viewing point, you’ll see sweeping panoramas of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and Banff National Park.

IMPORTANT! PLEASE READ Select your preferred date and ascent time for the Banff Gondola. Your descent will be set 1 hour 30 minutes later, giving time to explore the summit. The Lake Minnewanka Cruise will be scheduled 2 hours after your gondola descent. This combo is available until October 12, 2026, and resumes in May 2027. This ticket pairs two of Banff’s most iconic experiences: the Banff Gondola and the Lake Minnewanka Cruise. Ride to the summit of Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views, boardwalk trails, exhibits, cafés, and chances to spot wildlife. Then unwind on a guided cruise across Banff’s largest lake, where expert commentary shares the region’s history, geology, and ecology. Blending adventure, learning, and relaxation, this seamless package helps travelers make the most of their time while seeing Banff from two memorable perspectives, soaring above the Rockies and gliding over pristine alpine waters. Tickets are limited; book early to secure your preferred times.

Escape the crowds and enjoy sweeping views over Lake Louise with minimal effort with this summer gondola experience. The 14-minute gondola ride will take you to 6,893 feet (2,101 meters) for unparalleled views of Lake Louise and Banff National Park, and in the summer, frequent grizzly bear and other wildlife sightings.

Saddle up for a journey through the celebrated landscape of Banff National Park on this guided horseback riding adventure. Get out of the car and onto the trails of the Bow River or the Spray River and enjoy the area’s beautiful outdoor environment, largely unchanged from the days of the pioneers. This equine-themed odyssey includes a guide, use of a horse, and all necessary equipment. Note: guests must be eight years or older and a maximum of 230lbs (104kg)

Combine visits to the Glacier Skywalk and the Athabasca Glacier on a tour from the Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre. Ride in a huge ice explorer for a guided tour of the glacier and listen to engaging commentary about glaciers, the local ecosystem, and environmental changes. Then walk on the glass-bottom Skywalk for photo-worthy views over the cliff's edge.

Big mountain views, cool glacial waters, forests, valleys and wildlife: all from the perspective of the river. Great for all ages and perfect for first time rafters, Canmore Raft Tours offers two family friendly river floats leaving right from downtown Canmore. The 1.5hr (round trip) "Townie" leaves five times daily at 10:00am, 12:00pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm and 6:00pm from the Canmore Boat Launch, which is only a few minute walk from the shops and restaurants downtown. We are Canmore's only locally owned and family operated float company!

Up the ante on your Canada road trip when you purchase this audio tour of Alberta’s Icefields Parkway to learn about all the exciting landmarks along the way. Download the audio tour straight to your phone and follow the suggested route between Jasper and Lake Louise. Using a GPS map, commentary plays automatically as you drive so you can learn more about the surrounding areas.

Perfect for newbies, this canyoning experience at Heart Creek Canyon, near Banff and Canmore, features a relatively easy approach and amazing scenery. A popular hiking destination, Heart Creek serves as an ideal location to learn how to rope rappel. Rappels progressively increase in length, culminating with a 60-foot (18 meter) waterfall rappel and slide.