- The next part of the journey is tough as you head up to the Columbia Icefields. Even if the prevailing winds are from the North, the cold air from the glaciers will push against you. The grade is about 8% with some 10% inclines. Although you follow the river and think that it looks flat, in reality you are climbing. So don't be surprised that you are gearing down on what appears to be flat. When I first rode this section, I had to get off my bike and check it over because I was deceived by the apparent lack of grade and the direction of the wind.
- 98 km (187 km)
You really begin to climb a steep road to the Icefield. There are a couple of scenic overlooks where you can rest and enjoy the view. - 104 km (181 km)
At the top there is a Chalet where you can pick up some food, but don't expect accommodation without reservations. Contact Columbia Icefield Chalet, Box 1140, Banff, AB, T0L 0C0, ph. (403)762-2241. The Columbia Icefield which feeds the Athabasca Glacier and Dome Glacier covers 389 square kilometers. An insignificant-looking hump to the right is Snow Dome which is the hydrographic apex of the continent. Water from it drains three ways: to the Athabasca River flowing north and northeast to the Mackenzie and then the Arctic Ocean; the North Saskatchewan River flowing to Hudson's Bay; and the Columbia River to the Pacific. - From the Icefield Chalet and information center, you travel along an almost flat plateau. Then the road goes down with many curves and switchbacks. Too often you catch up to motorhomes with apprehensive drivers. So the following rule doesn't have a lot of benefit: "For every uphill there is an equal and opposite downhill." If you went from the South (i.e., Banff to Jasper), this is a tough climb but the downhill on the other side is a little easier.
- 109 km (176 km)
Sunwapta Pass. Banff-Jasper Boundary; elevation 2042 meters. - 113 km (172 km)
Hilda Creek Hostel.
Click on one of the mini-maps below to see a description of the ride section by section
