For those who enjoy the great outdoors at its most picturesque, a trip to the Canadian Rockies is an ideal vacation. For extreme adventure seekers who are looking for the thrill of a lifetime, (or those seeking slightly more tranquil experiences), deciding when to make the trip is the key to ensure the best weather conditions for whatever the interest.
Because of the extreme elevation, weather in the Canadian Rockies is often unpredictable and may even change from one moment to the next. Many people enjoy traveling to the Canadian Rockies during the winter months from December to March for optimal snow skiing. However, the best time to take a Canadian Rockies tour to experience the most outdoor activities and enjoy the scenery and wildlife is from June to September, with June, July and August being the most popular months to visit. Some of the most desirable areas to visit in the region are Banff, Lake Louise, Jasper, and Calgary. Each one of these destinations offer not only breathtaking scenery but a range of activities to experience, as well.
Banff and Lake Louise
Banff National Park, the oldest national park in Canada, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the world, with over 2,500 square miles of protected wilderness. In the winter, Banff National Park offers three ski resorts with over 7,000 acres of trails During the spring and summer months, this amazing park is just as popular, whether touring the area in a car, motorcycle or bike; or going hiking or boating. Lake Louise, a mile-long, 295-feet deep spectacular body of water sits at the base of the mountains and is located close to world-class hotels and a variety of restaurants. A wealth of activities, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, heli-hiking, fishing, caving, horseback riding, and guided sightseeing tours are available in close proximity. The nearby town of Banff is proud to be a tourist town, and offers a mountain culture experience and accommodations with views like no other. For an educational experience there are a number of museums in Banff, including the Banff Park Museum with an amazing array of wildlife specimens.
Jasper
Jasper National Park, also a World Heritage Site, offers many of the same exciting activities of Banff, but has an identity all its own. A quieter more tranquil experience can be found in the park as well as the town of Jasper. Miette Hot Springs, Athabasca Falls and Icefield Parkway offer unique experiences. Scuba diving in Lake Patricia’s clear waters; a ride on the Jasper tramway, with its breathtaking view of the area; and visiting the area’s galleries and museums are all activities that are not likely to be forgotten.
Calgary
When Calgary is mentioned, the first thing that often comes to people’s minds is the 1988 Olympics. The city of Calgary has many attractions including the Calgary Zoo, Calgary Tower, and Calgary Stampede, in addition to Canada Olympic Park. Among the activities available at Canada Olympic Park are Zipline, mountain biking, eurobungy, mini golf, a climbing wall and much more.
Built in 1968, Calgary’s most famous landmark, the Calgary Tower, is the highest observation decks in the world that gives a completely Panoramic view of the city from over 4,000 feet above sea level. Two restaurants and gift shops are also located at the tower.
The Calgary Zoo was founded in 1929 with thirty-six mammals, Seventy-eight birds and six black squirrels. Today it is the second largest zoo in Canada, with over 1,000 animals. Calgary Zoo offers a number of exhibits featuring animals from all over the world, including Destination Africa, a four building complex showcasing the flora and fauna of the African rainforest; Prehistoric Park; and botanical gardens. Other popular attractions include Canadian Wilds and a new Penguin Exhibit.
Calgary Stampede, a ten-day annual rodeo is one of the world’s largest, and draws over a million visitors each year. Offering over two million dollars in prize money, this rodeo attracts the best rodeo athletes in the world. Celebrating its 100th year in July, the Calgary Stampede is hosting special Centennial events in addition to its usual exciting competitions, parades, music, and other fun activities.
