OUR Alberta 2018 | Page 23

Must-have Experiences Canoe on pristine waters Alberta has many spots that are prime for canoeing, from a relaxing paddle on the stunning blue-green water of Lake Louise to group tours on the scenic Bow River in Banff. Walk the Skywalk This cliff-edge walkway gives you a snapshot view of the most captivating mountain and glacial vistas. Access Glacier Skywalk at a roadside pullout along Alberta’s famed Icefields Parkway, 2.5 hours north of Banff and an hour south of Jasper. Catch a shuttle bus from nearby Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre. The Canadian Rockies in Alberta are truly among the most beautiful landscapes on Earth. Tourists come from all over the world to see the teal-blue of the glacial water, take a ride up a mountain peak on a gondola, immerse themselves in nature on a hike, savour the mountains and blue skies while canoeing or soak in the views from a helicopter ride. There’s something for everyone and every ability, from beginner-friendly hikes and pristine picnic spots to rugged treks. Take a hike Some of Canada’s best front country and backcountry hiking can be found in the Rocky Mountains. There are hiking trails for both winter and summer use, with options for both pro and newbie hikers. canadianrockieshiking.com Sip tea on top of the world If you’re up for a challenge, you can take an uphill hike to the remote and rustically elegant Lake Agnes Tea House (lakeagnesteahouse.com), Plain of the Six Glaciers Tea House (banfflakelouise. com) and Mount Engadine Lodge (mountengadine.com). Be prepared with mountain boots and plenty of water. The gourmet treats and views are worth the trek! Visit Jasper National Park A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast mountain park surrounds the lovely town of Jasper. Outdoor activities abound here, from helicopter tours and horseback rides, to whitewater rafting and golf. The Jasper Dark Sky Festival in October is a fun experience with activities for all ages, including stargazing in a variety of incredible locations, talks, photo tours, hikes and more. jasper.travel Explore Banff National Park Banff National Park is yet another of Alberta’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The town of Banff features its own landmarks, including the Banff Gondola Mountaintop Experience and the Cave and Basin National Historic Site. Outside the town, outdoor activities include hiking, skiing, snowboarding, paddleboarding and more. banff.ca Stay for the snow If you’re a ski lover, don’t miss the global ski and snowboard destinations. Close to the town of Banff, there’s Lake Louise, Sunshine Village, Mount Norquay and Nakiska, while the Jasper town site is close to Marmot Basin. Glacier walks, ice cave tours, snow tubing and snowshoeing are fun winter adventures too. goskialbeta.com 23