I would say there really aren’t any “drop-offs”. By that term, I assume you mean places where it would be easy to fall off. This is a perfectly safe trail in my opinion, and I have a fear of heights. After walking up the switchbacks for 45-60 minutes, you end up atop a very broad ridge. My healthy fear never kicked in. Once on top, follow the yellow markers to the left and the views of the valley on the other side are revealed. You can hike quite a while up there before the trail narrows and becomes rocky. This hike was a highlight of our trip.

Suggest an early start to make the most of the day? Hope this helps?

I would think you would need to rent a car and drive the Icefields Parkway. Or you may be able to call around to different tour companies to see if anyone would take you there. But it's an easy drive to do yourself.

Renting a car will be the best option, the drive from Banff to the little town of Jasper is very scenic. You can stop on plenty of viewpoints. Download the Icefields Parkway Gypsy Tour, this will you give all of the possible stops and even the history of Icefields parkway.

There will be snow there most likely. Our most recent trip was early June. You should have a great time, but expect the trail to be covered with snow, and plan accordingly.

Always wise to carry bear spray on any trail... You just never know. Bells don't work. Bears are regularly seen near highways... Unfortunately humans feed them to get photos. Idiots.

We hiked it in early June in waist deep snow. The other "interesting" note is that in this area they use explosives during the winter to manage avalanches. There is a sign that warns of the possibility of unexploded shells in certain areas. This is no joke and must be regarded very seriously. Signs at the trailhead will provide current information.

Hi - I would end of May would be safe as far as snow goes, but you'd have to keep an eye on the weather before you get there. It would make sense to check in with park officials in the days before you travel. Hope your trip goes well!

Hi, Some of the lakes would be easily accessible - Lake Louise, Lake Moraine, Peyto Lake viewpoint would be a great place to go as they have a closer parking spot to the top. Another good lake spot is Vermillion Lake (for sunsets - be wary of mosquitoes), Pyramid Lake (close to jasper) and Bow Lake. The Athabasca and Sunwapta Falls (closer to Jasper) are quite accessible and would provide great views. The Banff Gondola would be an option, for Banff views, but getting to the summit involves a hike for 20 mins. Johnston Canyon and Maligne Canyon are possible options.

It would be covered with snow. I️ believe they even close the road so it’s inaccessible.