We were up bright and early on Wednesday and set off on the long drive north to Jasper along the Columbia Icefield Parkway which proved to be spectacular, as we'd expected. The weather was probably the best we'd had in the Rockies, clear blue skies and a fresh dusting of snow on some of the high peaks. We took a few photos along the way and stopped for coffee at the Saskatchewan Crossing.

The tourist centre assistant in Canmore had recommended the short walk from the highway up on to Parker Ridge to view the Saskatchewan Glacier as a good hike given our limited time. Even the views of Mounts Athabasca and Andromeda from the car park (see photo) were superb and suggested we were in for scenic treats! The climb up to the ridge had ice on the path in shaded spots, was continual up and moderately steep, although nothing compared to the Cory Pass route! Reaching the ridge was one of those special moments when an awesome view opens up all around. Athabasca and Andromed were seemingly close enough to touch and in the valley below we had the superb sight of the Saskatchewan Glacier flowing down the mountains. There were also 360 degree views of distant peaks. Given that these views were to be had about an hour's climb from the road, Parker Ridge must be the best walk ever in terms of effort for scenery. We ate lunch hardly able to stop smiling, the experience felt so special. There was an icy wind blowing, so with fleeces wrapped around us we moved on to a slightly higher viewpoint to take more photos and then reluctantly headed down briskly. And brisk it was! We'd really dawdled too long over photos and were cutting things fine to make Jasper and our train time. Jill showed a turn of speed, almost running down some sections that suggested she'd gained strength and confidence from some of our earlier Rockies rambling.

As it turned out we needn't have rushed. Our train was delayed by 3 hours due to being stuck behind a freight train that had decoupled half of its trucks in The Rockies. The outcome was we had plenty of time to explore Jasper's shops. We did find a pleasant bar that offered a delicious honey beer - not sweet but cool and refreshing. We'd been drawn into this particular bar by the wit of the A-board outside: "recipe for a Martini - followed by throw the result away and drink beer" and "a chalkboard can't describe our beer so come in and try it". Via Rail also provided a meal voucher so we could get dinner in town - steak for Dave and chicken for Jill that we both enjoyed.

Eventually we board the train and for this leg of our route had a sleeper cabin and access to the Panorama Car to look forward to. More of the cabin accommodation later. Our carriage was near the back of the train so we ambled down to the viewing car and spent the last of the evening enjoying the sunset views of The Rockies slowly disappearing behind the train.