House of travel Canada & Alaska Brochure 2017 | Page 17

The Rockies
National Parks, stunning peaks, lakes
and icefields are why The Rockies
are so well known. But it isn’t just
the scenery that makes it so special,
it’s also the outstanding wildlife, ski
resorts and super quaint villages.
Lake Louise Banff Jasper
Welcome to the most photographed spot in
the Rockies – Lake Louise. To beat the crowds
in summer, for that perfect photo of majestic
Victoria Glacier, treat yourself to a stay at
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – the only hotel
right on the glistening emerald lake. One of Canada’s top alpine resort towns with
award winning restaurants, unique shops and
hot mineral springs as well as plenty of scenic
wonders all within an alpine village setting. Jasper is a peaceful, quaint village where
you can explore the outdoors. There is an
abundance of wildlife close to the town
and hiking trails through Jasper National
Park. Enjoy a hike through the Valley of the
Five Lakes or head along the path to Cavell
Meadows where you’ll be awarded with views
of the beautiful lake and glacier.
In summer hire a canoe and spend a few hours
on the lake or take a walk along the northern
shores to fully appreciate this ‘Jewel of the
Rockies’. There’s a stunning waterfall hidden
at the back of the lake that freezes in the winter
months. This is a great place to get back to
nature and you might even be lucky enough to
spot a bear or two in the nearby woods.
One of the most popular hikes is the walk to
Lake Agnes. Make sure to stop at Lake Agnes
Tea House, where a slice of freshly baked apple
crumble accompanies a cup of their
100 different varieties of tea.
Lake Louise is a year round destination and in
winter you’ll be busy with world-class skiing, ice
skating and sleigh rides.
For the most spectacular views and photo
opportunities in Banff National Park, the Banff
Gondola will take you to the top of Sulphur
Mountain on a seven minute ride. The views
of the surrounding mountains and downtown
Banff are spectacular.
A short walk out of town will have you taking
photos of the beautiful Bow Falls and Bow
River. You also can’t miss a visit to the hoodoos
(rocks that look like needles). Take a walk along
the hoodoos trail or drive to Surprise Corner
which has great views of the Bow River.
To finish off your day enjoy a visit to the Upper
Hot Springs near the Banff Gondola. These
are an excellent place to relax and soak in
the wondrously hot waters surrounded by
beautiful mountain vistas.
Take in the view of the well photographed
Spirit Island at Maligne Lake on a lake cruise
or stop at Maligne Canyon for some staggering
views of the river below, thundering through a
series of beautiful waterfalls.
Heading south out of town is the stunning
Icefields Parkway that heads all the way down
to Banff. You’ll be able to join a tour that heads
out on to the Athabasca Glacier and hear
stories of early explorers in the valley at the
Columbia Icefields Centre. If you’re game head
out on the Glacier Skywalk – a glass bottom one
kilometre cliff-edged walkway that leads to a
platform where glass is all that separates you
from a 280 metre drop.
Our favourite places to stay: Our favourite places to stay: Our favourite places to stay:
• Deer Lodge
• Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise • Fox Hotel & Suites
• Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel • Best Western Jasper Inn & Suites
• Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
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