The Crossing Resort

Overview

Sitting at Saskatchewan River Crossing where Highway 93 meets Highway 11, The Crossing Resort is the Parkway’s all-in-one outpost: lodging, fuel, multiple dining options, and a sizable general store tucked under Mt. Wilson. It’s not fancy, but it’s wildly convenient when you’re hours from the nearest town.

Why it’s useful

This is one of the few places on the Parkway where you can sleep, eat, and gas up in the same spot. That matters out here. You’ll find a 250-seat dining room, a cafeteria-style café, a pub, and a 3,000-sq-ft general store/gift shop—plus an on-site gas station. It’s a reliable launchpad for the area’s greatest hits: Bow and Peyto Lakes, Mistaya Canyon, and the Columbia Icefield are all within easy striking distance.

Rooms & on-site amenities

Expect motel-style simplicity across 66 rooms and some suites—private bathrooms, coffee makers and mini-fridges, and semi-private decks; a few nab mountain views. There’s a fitness room and sauna, and paid Wi‑Fi. Parking is on-site, though some rooms are a bit of a walk from the lot. Reviews regularly praise the location and views while calling out dated rooms and value that doesn’t always match the price.

Location & nearby highlights

You’re roughly an hour south of Lake Louise and two hours north of Jasper, right in the thick of prime Parkway scenery. Within about 30 minutes you can reach Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, Mistaya Canyon, and the Columbia Icefield—classic photo stops and hike starters. The resort also promotes a "Hike & Attraction Central" program to help you pick routes nearby.

Wildlife

This corridor is good for elk, deer, bears, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. Your best chance is dawn and dusk along open slopes and roadside meadows. Keep your distance and follow park guidance.

Food, fuel, and supplies

Three on-site options cover quick bites to sit-down meals, and the pub is handy after a long day. The general store stocks snacks, souvenirs, and basic travel essentials. Fuel is available right here—expect higher-than-town pricing.

Season and realities

The Crossing typically runs May through September. Connectivity is limited and Wi‑Fi comes with a fee. Weather turns fast at this elevation, so pack layers even in midsummer.

Best time to visit

• Lodging: Midweek dates book easier and feel quieter.
• Food/fuel: Stop early morning or late afternoon to sidestep tour-hour rushes.
• Photography: Golden hour lights up Mt. Wilson; calm mornings favor reflections around nearby lakes.

Bottom line

Come for the location and the rare one-stop convenience in the middle of the Parkway. If you’re after luxury or great value dining, temper expectations; if you want a practical base with huge scenery on the doorstep, it does the job well.