Truly one of the most scenic and breathtaking
locations on earth, Banff offers a glimpse of what the world was like thousands
of years ago. Located within Banff National Park in Western Canada, in the
province of Alberta, this small town of 7000 is alive with activity. Each year,
millions of visitors come to Banff to marvel at the emerald waters of Lake
Louise, walk among the flower-filled havens at Sunshine Meadows, and drive
beneath the towering jagged peaks lining the Icefields Parkway. While the park
engages its visitors with snow-capped peaks, glistening glaciers and sweeping
vistas, visitors can enjoy all the comforts of home in the town of Banff and its
neighbor, Lake Louise, or step out into the wilderness to visit the home of some
of North America's wildest creatures, including grizzly bears, caribou and
wolves.
Banff is accessible by way
of a picturesque 90-minute drive on the all-weather, four lane Trans-Canada
Highway 1 from Calgary. There is no need to worry about what to wear when you
get there, as casual dress is the norm. In summer, bring a raincoat, warm
sweater, hat, sturdy shoes, sunscreen and sunglasses. In spring, summer and
fall, a light coat or warm jacket may be required, particularly at higher
altitudes. In winter, a heavy coat, winter boots, hat, gloves or mittens and
warm clothing are essential. Sunscreen is essential in any season. With four
very distinct seasons, there is something to see and do whenever your plans
bring you to the area. Daytime high average temperatures range from -7C (19F)
in January to +9C (49F) in April and provide generally favorable ski conditions
throughout the season. A relatively dry climate is responsible for the
unbeatable Rocky Mountain powder snow. Keep in mind, the warm Chinook winds can
often bring spring-like temperatures, even in mid-winter.
As part of Banff National
Park, the city of Banff is rich in historical sites, museums, great food to
enjoy and numerous other things to do, but it is the scenery that brings
visitors back time and again. Banff National
Park is the birthplace of Canada's national park system and is alive with a
landscape rich in wildlife and history. No two views are the same, and each
creates its own individual memory.
For a great view of the city, be sure to take a
ride on the Banff Gondola. Its motto is: of “see more mountains in a moment than
most see in a lifetime”. This 8-minute ride transports visitors to outstanding
views from 7,486 feet above sea level.
Another must see attraction
is the Columbia Icefield. While only accessible
from spring until mid-fall, this massive field of ancient ice covers 125 square miles and reaches depths estimated at 1299 feet. Straddling the
Continental Divide, the Icefield feeds three of the continents major river
systems: the Columbia, Mackenzie and Saskatchewan. Meltwaters from the Icefield
flow to three different oceans: the Pacific, the Arctic and the Atlantic. Called a
hydrological apex, it is one of only two in the world that feeds three oceans.
It is truly an unforgettable adventure.
For a little indoor activity, try Canada Place.
Located in town, the interactive exhibit on the promenade level captures the
attention of everyone.
There you can enjoy touch screens, real birch bark canoes,
open secret doors, and experience actual recording studios.
To relax those tired muscles after a hard day of
sightseeing, consider a visit to Banff Upper Hot Springs. It has all the
amenities of a modern facility, featured in a splendid, historic spa and bath
house.
Whatever the reason and whatever the season, this
truly remarkable, picturesque, quaint, exhilarating, town has something for
everyone. You won’t want to forget your camera for a personal adventure with
nature.
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