North Thompson & Columbia Icefields Parkway Loop
Experience the untamed wilderness of the North Thompson Valley, en route to the Canadian Rockies. From Route 97 in Kamloops, take Highway 5, known as the Yellowhead Highway, north toward Valemount. The first leg of the journey is approximately 320 km (200 mi) and runs alongside the North Thompson River.
On your way north, spend some time at Sun Peaks, Canada’s second largest ski area and home to alpine hiking and biking in the summer. Experience cowboy country in Barriere, discover waterfalls in Wells Gray Provincial Park, embrace your inner adventurer in the lush interior rainforest surrounding Blue River and admire the backdrop of towering mountain ranges in Valemount.
Follow signs north toward the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies - Mount Robson. Then, when Highways 5, 16 and 93 meet, you’ll arrive at Jasper, Alberta. From there begin the 232 kilometre (144 mile) route south on Highway 93 through one of the world’s most iconic stretches of highway. The Columbia Icefields Parkway stretches through the heart of the iconic Canadian Rocky Mountains to Lake Louise, AB.
From Lake Louise, take the Trans-Canada Highway west toward Revelstoke. The drive is 228 km (142 mi) and will take you through Yoho National Park and the scenic communities of Field and Golden. If you have time, stop and explore Glacier National Park, Canyon Hot Springs and Mount Revelstoke National Park.
Not to be Missed
Helmcken Falls
is the fourth largest waterfall in Canada and is located within Wells Gray Provincial Park. Make it a waterfall trip and check out Dawson Falls, Moul Falls and Spahats Creek Falls for impressive views.
Berg Lake Trail
is a backcountry hiking trail in Mount Robson Provincial Park. It spans three biogeoclimatic zones, gaining almost 800 metres (2,625 feet) in less than 25 km (15.5 mi). Pro Tip: Experience it with a heli-tour.
Athabasca Glacier
in Jasper National Park you can experience the power of ice moving below you as you walk on the most visited glacier in North America.
Key Annual Events
Alpine Blossom Festival (Sun Peaks, July)
The Robson Valley Music Festival (Valemount, August)
North Thompson Fall Fair and Rodeo (Barriere, Labour Day Weekend - September)
Explore the North Thompson Valley
Outdoor Adventure
Regional Information
