Alberta, Canada, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, from the majestic Canadian Rockies to the vast prairies. Are you planning a trip and seeking the most beautiful places to see in Alberta? This list of the top 10 must-see destinations in Alberta will guide you to the most breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable experiences. Whether you are drawn to the rugged peaks of Banff National Park, the turquoise lakes of Jasper, or the vibrant cityscapes of Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta offers something for every traveler. Prepare to be captivated by the beauty of Alberta as we unveil its most prized gems.
From hiking amidst wildflowers in the summer to skiing down powdery slopes in the winter, the best places to visit in Alberta offer year-round adventure. Discover the top 10 beautiful places in Alberta, including iconic landmarks like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and explore hidden gems waiting to be discovered. This carefully curated selection showcases the diverse landscapes and remarkable experiences that await you in beautiful Alberta. Get ready to embark on a visual journey through the most stunning places in Alberta, Canada.
Banff National Park
Established in 1885, Banff National Park is Canada’s first national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, it offers breathtaking scenery.
Key attractions include the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, the towering peaks surrounding Moraine Lake, and the vibrant hot springs. Visitors can enjoy various activities like hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing.
The Town of Banff provides amenities and services within the park, offering accommodations, restaurants, and shops for a comfortable stay.
Lake Louise
Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, Lake Louise is renowned for its breathtaking beauty. The vibrant turquoise hue of its glacial waters, framed by the towering Victoria Glacier and the majestic Canadian Rockies, creates a truly iconic scene.
Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including canoeing on the serene lake, hiking to the historic teahouse with stunning views, or simply relaxing and absorbing the magnificent scenery. In winter, the lake transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for ice skating and snowshoeing.
Lake Louise is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Alberta, offering an unforgettable experience of natural splendor.
Moraine Lake
Nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks within Banff National Park, Moraine Lake is renowned for its breathtaking turquoise-blue waters. This vibrant color is a result of glacial rock flour carried into the lake by meltwater.
Surrounded by towering mountains and lush vegetation, Moraine Lake offers a truly spectacular vista. The iconic view of the lake and the Ten Peaks is often referred to as the “Twenty Dollar View,” as it once graced the back of the Canadian twenty-dollar bill.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at Moraine Lake, including canoeing, kayaking, and hiking the surrounding trails. The Rockpile Trail offers a short, easy climb with panoramic views of the lake and valley.
Jasper National Park
Located in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. It offers visitors breathtaking views of majestic mountains, pristine glaciers, and turquoise lakes.
Key attractions include Maligne Lake, known for its Spirit Island, and the Columbia Icefield, the largest ice field in the Rocky Mountains. Wildlife viewing is abundant, with opportunities to see elk, bears, moose, and bighorn sheep. Hiking trails range from easy strolls to challenging climbs, catering to all skill levels. The park is also a designated dark sky preserve, providing incredible stargazing opportunities.
Athabasca Falls
Located in Jasper National Park, Athabasca Falls is a stunning display of the raw power of nature. While not the tallest waterfall in the park, it’s arguably the most powerful. The immense volume of water flowing through the narrow gorge creates a mesmerizing spectacle.
The falls are easily accessible with a short, paved path leading to various viewing platforms. From these vantage points, visitors can witness the water cascading over the limestone rocks and churning into the swirling turquoise waters below. The sheer force of the water has carved potholes and other unique geological formations into the surrounding rock, further adding to the drama of the scene.
A visit to Athabasca Falls offers a truly immersive experience, allowing you to feel the spray of the mist and hear the roar of the rushing water. It is an unforgettable stop on any journey through Jasper National Park.
Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway, also known as Highway 93 North, is a stunning 232-kilometer stretch of road winding through the Canadian Rockies, connecting Lake Louise and Jasper. It offers breathtaking views of ancient glaciers, towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and cascading waterfalls.
Along the parkway, visitors can experience a variety of activities, including hiking to scenic viewpoints, exploring the Columbia Icefield, and taking a ride on the Ice Explorer to walk directly on the Athabasca Glacier.
Keep an eye out for wildlife such as bears, elk, and bighorn sheep. The Icefields Parkway truly offers an unforgettable journey through some of the most spectacular scenery in the Canadian Rockies.
Peyto Lake
Located in Banff National Park, Peyto Lake is renowned for its vibrant turquoise color. This stunning hue is caused by glacial rock flour flowing into the lake.
The best views are from the Peyto Lake Viewpoint, easily accessible from the Icefields Parkway. From this vantage point, visitors can fully appreciate the lake’s unique shape, resembling the head of a wolf.
Popular activities include hiking, photography, and sightseeing. Note that swimming is not recommended due to the frigid glacial water.
Canmore
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Canmore offers breathtaking views and unparalleled access to outdoor adventures. This charming mountain town, just a short drive from Banff, provides a more laid-back atmosphere while still boasting stunning scenery.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find themselves in paradise. Hiking trails abound, ranging from easy strolls along the Bow River to challenging climbs in the surrounding peaks. Rock climbing, mountain biking, and skiing are also popular activities.
Downtown Canmore offers a unique blend of local boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Exploring the town’s quaint streets is a must for visitors seeking a taste of authentic mountain culture.
Sunwapta Falls
Located within Jasper National Park, Sunwapta Falls is a breathtaking display of natural beauty. The name, derived from the Stoney Nakoda language, means “turbulent river,” a fitting description for the powerful flow of water cascading over the rocks.
The falls are divided into two distinct sections. The upper falls plunge approximately 55 feet, creating a thunderous roar and a cloud of mist. A short walk downstream leads to the lower falls, a series of smaller cascades that carve their way through a dramatic gorge. This unique, two-stage structure makes Sunwapta Falls a truly unforgettable sight and an essential stop for any visitor to Jasper National Park.
Waterton Lakes National Park
Located in southwestern Alberta, Waterton Lakes National Park offers breathtaking scenery. Mountains, lakes, and prairies converge in this unique park, providing a diverse landscape for visitors to explore. Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Waterton shares an international border with Glacier National Park in Montana, USA, forming the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
Popular activities within the park include hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for iconic species such as bighorn sheep and black bears. The historic Prince of Wales Hotel provides stunning views and a glimpse into the park’s rich past.
