Canadian Rockies

The Canadian Rockies comprise the easternmost part of the Canadian Cordillera, stretching approximately 1,450 kilometers from the United States border in the south to the Liard River in the north. Unlike their counterparts in the American Rockies, which are largely composed of metamorphic and igneous rocks, the Canadian section consists primarily of sedimentary rocks like limestone and shale. These layers were pushed eastward and upward during the Laramide orogeny between 80 and 55 million years ago. The distinctive jagged silhouettes of the peaks are the result of intense glaciation, which has left behind hanging valleys, cirques, and U-shaped troughs. Mount Robson stands as the highest peak in the range at 3,954 meters. The region is home to five national parks, Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho, and Waterton Lakes, forming one of the world's most extensive protected mountain environments. A critical hydrological divide, the range feeds major river systems including the Fraser, Columbia, and Mackenzie, while the Burgess Shale within its borders provides a rare window into the evolution of complex life from the Cambrian Period. The mountains remain a symbol of Canada's vast wilderness and its commitment to conservation.

History & landmarks

Jasper National Park

National park in Alberta

Lake Louise

Glacial lake in Banff

Banff National Park

National park in the Rockies

Calgary

Major city in Alberta

Edmonton

Capital of Alberta

Whistler

Whistler is a world-class resort town in British Columbia, nestled in the spectacular Coast Mountains.

Vancouver

Major city in British Columbia

Yellowknife

Yellowknife is the capital of Canada's Northwest Territories, located on the northern shore of Great Slave Lake.

Nature

Fraser River

The longest river within British Columbia.

Great Bear Lake

The largest lake entirely within Canada.

More places

Mount Edith Cavell

A prominent mountain in Jasper National Park.

Mount Robson

Highest peak in the Canadian Rockies.

Okanagan Valley Orchards

Known for orchards and wineries in British Columbia.

Banff Grizzly Bears

The Rockies are home to these impressive predators.

West Edmonton Mall

One of the world's largest shopping and entertainment complexes.

Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump

Traditional hunting site of the indigenous peoples.

Vancouver Film Industry

Often referred to as 'Hollywood North'.

Port of Vancouver

Canada's largest and most important port on the Pacific.