Bow Valley Provincial Park

Located in the foothills that line the route as you travel from Calgary to Banff via the Trans-Canada Highway, this beautiful park has many short walks and a large playground, making it a great place to bring the kids. Take Many Springs Trail, a one mile loop complete with signs (in English) that describe the flora and fauna that you will see along the way. The walk circles a marsh and has some hills as well as a “boil spring” with a deck for viewing. Here you can watch water boil up from below, making patterns on the water’s surface. Along the way, depending on the season, you can see ladyslipper orchids, hummingbirds, Mountain Chickadees, and Mule deer.

Take some time at Middle Lake where you will find another walking loop with larger hills. You can also park above the lake to enjoy a picnic while admiring the view. If you are there during the late spring, the nearby field will be filled with red Western Wood Lilies, a gorgeous sight to behold! You can also take another short looping trail, Flowing Water Trail, starting in the campground on the eastern side of Hwy 1X to follow the edge of the Kananaskis River. When you arrive at the far end, you will find a large beaver pond where bird life abounds. Dawn and dusk are the best hours to see the beavers and muskrat.

Getting to Bow Valley Provincial Park: Take exit 114 off the Trans-Canada Highway and continue to the junction of Highway 1X, which bisects the park.

The Burgess Shale

Located in Yoho National Park, this rock formation has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the beautifully preserved fossils found in its midst. A mere 505 million years ago, during the Cambrian period, the area was a shallow equatorial sea, and the history of the region is revealed in the fossils which continue to intrigue paleontologists and visitors alike.

You can get a better sense of the Burgess Shale by visiting the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology in Drumheller, a 1 ½ hour drive northeast of Calgary and slightly over 4 hours drive east of Field, British Columbia. Here you will see an amazing collection of dinosaur skeletons and a model of the sea that dried up to yield the sedimentary rocks that comprise the Burgess Shale.

When visiting the Burgess Shale, you must make a reservation for a guided hike, offered by the Burgess Shale Geoscience Foundation. Because the formation is protected, you cannot hike the area without a guide. You must also be in good physical shape, as the hike is demanding. The hike is available from the beginning of July to the middle of September only. It is not uncommon to book your hike four to five months in advance to assure your place in the register.

Note: If you want to read up on the history of the Burgess Shale before you go, read “Wonderful Life: The Burgess Shale and the Nature of History” by paleontologist Stephen Jay Gould.

Lake O’Hara

Located in Yoho National Park between Field, British Columbia and the village of Lake Louise, Alberta, this secluded area is ideal for hiking. Access to the park is restricted, which keeps the area quiet. You will need to make a reservation on the Lake O’Hara bus for hiking in the summer or cross-country skiing in the winter.

To reserve space on the bus, call the Lake O’Hara Reservations Line: 250-343-6433 up to three months ahead of time. The Reservations Line operates on North American Mountain time and reservations are payable by Visa, MasterCard, or American Express.

Note: If you miss the three month deadline for your bus reservation, there are six seats set aside for 24 hour bookings, which you may be lucky enough to get.
Call 250-343-6433 at 8am on the day before you want to take the bus. All six seats are usually taken within 10 minutes after the office has opened.

Bus fare is C$14.85 for adults and C$7.40 for youth (6 – 16). Children up to age 5 ride for free. In addition to the fare, each person is charged a C$11.85 reservation fee.

Staying Overnight
Camping is permitted in the tent grounds at Lake O’Hara, but be sure to bring all that you need as there are no grocery stores in the area. There are also two Alpine Club of Canada huts. If you want full board accommodation, including three meals a day, book your stay at the Lake O’Hara Lodge. The food is excellent and the enormous fireplace in the central lodge’s main room is cozy and inviting. There is a library upstairs, so go grab a book and curl up by the roaring fire after your day’s exploration. The lodge’s bedrooms are small and bathrooms are shared. You also have an option to book cabins by the lake. The lodge offers no liquor, but you are free to bring your own. If you want a chilled wine, just place your bottle in the lake!

Note: Lake O’Hara Lodge is very expensive. Even though the accommodations are rustic, the price reflects the serenity of the area as well as the complications in running a lodge in so isolated a locale. If you intend to stay at the lodge, you must book your reservation very far in advance, which typically means a year! If you do manage to get a booking, your bus reservation is included in the service.

Lussier Hot Springs

These natural hot springs are situated in White Swan Provincial Park, just east of Canal Flats.

How to get to White Swan Provincial Park: Take Highway 93 from Radium Hot Springs through Invermere and Cranbrook to the west of the Canadian Rockies in the Kootenay-Rockies Region.

Sunshine Meadows

Known for its display of wildflowers in July and the golden shimmer of its larch trees in late September, this beautiful area is much quieter than the Larch Valley hiking trail that heads out of Moraine Lake. To access Sunshine Meadows in the autumn, call the shuttle bus company and ask if the trees have turned. Book your spot on the bus accordingly to gain access to the starting point for your trek. The Sunshine parking lot is located 10 miles from the Banff townsite.

Related posts:

• Five Great Towns in the Canadian Rockies
• Canadian Rockies Itineraries
• Favorite Canadian Rockies Road Trips At a Glance
• Banff Accommodations
• Golden Area Accommodations

Full of early pioneer architecture from the “boomtown” years, this route between Calgary and Edmonton covers south and central Alberta as well as the delightful towns of Calgary and Edmonton.

The Canadian Badlands Trail

Here you’ll be privy to the largest collection of dinosaur memorabilia in the world. Travel this well-worn trail to discover amazing geological finds that reveal the prehistory of the region. Covers southern Alberta as well as Calgary and its environs.

The Cowboy Trail

A true wild west route that takes you through southern and central Alberta as well as the Calgary area, you’ll get a personal look at how the pioneers and cowboys lived back in the day.

The Crowsnest Highway 3

As the oldest inter-provincial highway in Alberta, you can soak up the many historic sites along this southern Alberta route.

The David Thompson Explorer’s Trail

Here you will traverse the famous trail used by one of Canada’s most famed explorers, David Thompson, taking you through central Alberta and among some of the best views of the Canadian Rockies.

The Deh Cho Trail

Cutting a large pathway through northern Alberta, the Northwest Territories, and Northern British Columbia, the Deh Cho (or “big river” in the Aboriginal language) follows some of the magnificent rivers traversed by the Native Americans of the past.

The Grande Alberta Trail

Here you will find gushing rivers, snow-capped mountains, and a plethora of wildlife all around. Taking you through central and north Alberta, the Canadian Rockies, and Edmonton, this route is full of great outdoor activities for one and all.

Highway 2 north from Calgary to Edmonton

Covering some of southern and central Alberta as well as Calgary and Edmonton, this one day trip takes you on an old wagon trail that is filled with attractions that are steeped in history and charm.

The Icefields Parkway

With its breathtaking waterfalls, huge banks of ice, and crystalline lakes, this classic Canadian Rockies route runs between Calgary and Edmonton, with amazing sights and places to stop all along the way.

Kalyna Country

Here you will find Canada’s largest ecomuseum and largest settlement of Ukrainians and Eastern Europeans. The area includes central Alberta, Edmonton, running all the way to the Saskatchewan border.

The Klondike Trail

This trail was made famous during the gold rush of the late 1800s. Take this spectacular route from Edmonton to the Yukon and sample some of the Canadian Rockies’ pioneer past.

North to Alaska Trail

Take two weeks to complete this amazing trek that starts from the Montana, U.S. and Alberta, Canada border. Wend your way to Alaska heading north through Calgary, Edmonton, Grande Prairie, British Columbia, and finally to the Alaska Highway where you’ll land in the legendary Dawson Creek.

The Northern Alberta Heritage Trail

This trail takes you into northern Alberta where you will find wonderful historic towns long with gorgeous scenic vistas along the way.

The Northern Lights and Oil Sands Trail

You will be able to witness the famed Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights on this beautiful trip through northern Alberta. Quaint historic villages and an abundance of wildlife viewing are other advantages of this three day trip.

The Northwestern Alberta Circle

The overwhelming scenery that you will encounter on this northern Alberta journey will astound you as you go through Peace River Country. Take your time to explore some of the charming communities that make up this agricultural region.

The Trail of the Buffalo

As the trail tells you, this is the route of the bison that cuts through east central Alberta. A great vacation trip during the summer months, the journey is chock full of great sights and outdoor activities for the entire family.

The Trail of the Great Bear

Here you will be in the home of the grizzly, which is reflected in the legends that are part of this beautiful region. Beginning in Yellowstone National Park, the trail takes you through spectacular vistas through the north of Montana and Alberta.

The Trans-Canada Highway

Ride alongside miles of prairie that lies beneath the magnificent Canadian Rockies as you travel from east to west. Take at least a week to soak in the history and enjoy all of the great hiking, fishing, and exploring that is waiting for you to discover.

Two City-Two Park Circle Tour

A great way to get the feel of the cosmopolitan cities of Calgary and Edmonton, all under the spell of the Canadian Rockies. Travel from one city to the other, taking in the splendor of the vast terrain as you pass through wonderful areas such as Kananaskis County, a year-round recreational area that combines amazing vistas with great outdoor activities.

The UNESCO Trail

Plan enough vacation time to explore this wonderful trail that includes five out of thirteen Canadian UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Yellowhead Highway

Drive through central Alberta’s parks and forests to experience the true center of the Canadian Rockies. Named after the blonde 1800s trapper, Pierre Bostonais, this trail will take you to 8 national parks where you can revel in nature’s beauty at its best.

Related posts:

• The Canadian Rockies of Alberta Activities at a Glance
• Five Great Towns in the Canadian Rockies
• Canadian Rockies Itineraries
• Off the Beaten Track in the Canadian Rockies
• Backcountry Trips – Banff National Park

Hiking

Follow historical routes through the mountains with trails such as the Crypt Lake Trail that is easily accessed by the M.V. International ferry, taking hikers to and from Watertown’s center. The trail climbs to over 2300 feet, covering a distance of 10.7 miles round trip. With its steep cliffs, its natural tunnels, and a 600 foot waterfall, this trail has its challenges. Hikers will need to traverse ledges with cables and scale cliffs with steel ladders. Finish your hike with a picnic at Crypt Lake where you will marvel at the turquoise waters that reflect the surrounding mountains.
The Carthew-Alderson Trail is another hiking trail that is known for its magnificent vistas. Start at Cameron Lake and walk the 11 miles through the Rockies to arrive at Cameron Falls, located in the Waterton townsite. See the valleys below from Carthew Summit, traverse the ancient forests, and enjoy the plethora of waterfalls, lakes, and streams.
Another hiking option is Bear’s Hump Trail, which begins at the Waterton Lakes Visitor Center and ends after 0.6 miles of exquisite mountain terrain. This is perfect for the beginning hiker, or for a pleasant outing with the family.

Wildlife Sightings

The Waterton Lakes Chain consists of clear mountain water easily accessible from the town of Waterton. Rent a canoe and see all that the area has to offer in the way of wildlife and vegetation. Buffalo Paddock is another site where viewing wildlife is easy to do. Bring your camera so the folks at home don’t think the story of the grizzly grazing by the lake wasn’t just one of your tall stories!

Winter Sports

Waterton Lakes National Park is open all year long and is ideal for enjoying some of the best cross-country skiing and ice climbing in the Canadian Rockies.

Related posts:

• Jasper, British Columbia Activities At a Glance
• Kimberley, British Columbia Activities At a Glance
• Fernie, British Columbia Activities at a Glance
• Waterton Lakes National Park – A Diverse Ecosystem in the Canadian Rockies
• Golden, British Columbia Activities at a Glance

As one of the most phenomenal ski areas in the world, the British Columbia Rockies are famous for downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, and snowboarding. In addition, one of the best attractions for skiers is helicopter skiing. Invented in 1965, a helicopter takes skiers high into the mountains. Here intermediate and advanced skiers and snowboarders can enjoy the adventure of heli-skiing on fresh virgin snow. The British Columbia Rockies also offer snow-cat skiing, where instead of a helicopter, skiers and snowboarders are hauled by a snow-cat vehicle, designed similarly to a military tank.

Hot Springs

In the British Columbia Rockies you will find abundant natural hot springs. In any season one can benefit from the healing properties of the hot mineral water that flows forth from deep in the mountain into large pools. Wallow in the water while soaking in the stupendous view of the Rockies all around you. At the hot springs you will find vacation travelers from all over the world who have come to experience the medicinal qualities of these unique waters. In addition to the hot spring soaks, you can request a massage or other therapeutic treatment to further enhance the experience.

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is one of the jewels of the British Columbia Rockies. The color of a true emerald, the lake has an otherworldly beauty. Surrounded by mountains, this is a place to enjoy peace and quiet as well as to indulge in various lake activities all year round. Stay at the Emerald Lake Lodge, a beautiful locale that was built to harmonize with its surroundings.

Canadian Pacific Railway Excursion

One of the most fascinating trips one can take is by train through the British Columbia Rockies. The scenery is breathtaking and the trip itself makes for a historical visit to one of the most interesting stories of railway construction. Build by thousands of immigrant laborers working in the worst of conditions, the railway was more than a challenge to construct. The danger of rockslides, avalanches, and accidents from explosives, the proliferation of disease, and the extremely steep gradient of the terrain made the job almost an impossibility. Because of the steep nature of the mountainside, if a train had a brake problem, it would fly off the track. In one of the most innovative feats of engineering, two massive tunnels were cut into the rock face in a spiral shape. These spiral tunnels helped to increase the length of the track whereby the gradient was decreased by more than half. A model helps to demonstrate how the tunnels work, and once on the train, it is easy to see the front passing through the tunnels while the rear is just entering at the other end!

Meadows in the Sky Parkway

In the spring, one of the most amazing observation points in the British Columbia Rockies is the Meadows in the Sky Parkway, located in the Mount Revelstoke National Park. Winding up a 26 km road, one arrives at the top to be surrounded by sub-alpine wildflower meadows that stun the viewer. In the fall, you will be stunned by the brilliant trees and wide vistas. Park your car and hike or take a shuttle to the meadows where you can picnic, use your photographic skills, and hike on one of the designated trails.

Related posts:

• Revelstoke, British Columbia Activities At a Glance
• Fernie, British Columbia Activities at a Glance
• Kimberley, British Columbia Activities At a Glance
• Golden, British Columbia Activities at a Glance
• Waterton, British Columbia Activities at a Glance

Attractions

The Platzl and the Cuckoo Clock
Walking in downtown Kimberley is akin to walking a neighborhood street in one of Europe’s Bavarian towns. The colorful pedestrian street called the Platzl is a wonderful place to people-watch in the summer where entertainment, festivals, and parades abound. The Cuckoo Clock is also right in the heart of the city and is known as one of the world’s largest free-standing clocks. Watch “Happy Hans” come out on the hour!

Cominco Gardens
This beautiful park includes a gazebo, a wishing well, and lush gardens that feature over 48,000 species of flowers, shrubs, and trees. Established in 1927 by Cominco, the owner of all the mines in the area, the gardens are ideal for a relaxing stroll or picnic.

The Bavarian City Mining Railway
The Bavarian City Mining Railway comprises 12 miles that wind through the Mill Creek Valley on a narrow mining track. Rising into mountain terrain where old mining cars once ventured, the ride takes approximately 20 minutes and allows visitors to learn about the rich history of the area. With views of Sullivan Mines’ old entrance and the Cominco Power House, as well as the magnificent mountain vistas, this ride is a must for anyone visiting Kimberley, British Columbia.

Wasa Lake Provincial Park
Located 24 northeast of Kimberley, this 356 acre park was created in 1955. Popular for the warmest waters in East Kootenay, the sandy beach and boating area allow for a myriad of activities, including swimming, sunbathing, waterskiing, and fishing. The park also is also known for its beautiful trails, ample campsites, and its fishing holes.

Marysville Falls
In a suburb of Kimberley you will find Marysville, lying 10 minutes south of the Platzl. Here you will find the famous Marysville Falls, located in the north side of town. The falls drop to 100 feet over smooth rocks that have been weathered by the consistent beating of water. Take the wooden walking bridge to enjoy the majesty of the site. The town of Marysville is also a high point, with its range of unique shops, restaurants, and bars.

Summer Activities in Kimberley, British Columbia

Golfing
Kimberley, British Columbia boasts several excellent clubs such as the Kimberley Golf Club, established in 1924 and considered one of the Canadian Rockies’ most famous golf courses. Situated by the St. Mary’s River and bordered by the Ponderosa Pines, the course is resplendent with breathtaking vistas. The Trickle Creek Golf Resort is known for being one of the top 10 courses in Canada, providing the golfer with exquisite views and world-class greens. The newest golf course in Kimberley is the Bootleg Gap Golf Course, which opened in 2002. The course was designed by Les Ferber and includes an ample mix of open driving holes and narrow cut, tree-lined fairways.

White Water Rafting
Both half and full day expeditions are offered in Kimberley, British Columbia, with excursions that run the gamut from tranquil floats to wild rapids. With a wide choice of streams and rivers, tour operators will choose where they will conduct the rides depending on water level and flow. Check the white water rafting tour agencies in the area to book one of the most exhilarating experiences you can have in the Canadian Rockies.

Hiking and Mountain Biking
With the 1,800 acre Kimberley Nature Park offering multi-use trails that track across the peaks and valleys, the Kimberley Alpine Resort is where you can choose from a multitude of hiking and biking trails of different levels of difficulty. Hike or bike to the Top of the World Provincial Park and the Wasa Provincial Park to feel the exhilaration of what it means to be in big nature.

Tours
There are a number of interesting tours that are offered in Kimberley, British Columbia. Take a helicopter tour to view the Purcell and Rocky Mountains from on high along with the vast web of rivers, lakes, forests, and canyons that make up the terrain around the region. Other options include horseback riding as well as bird watching and wildlife watching safaris.

Winter Activities in Kimberley, British Columbia

Skiing
Located on Northstar Mountain in the Purcell Mountain Range, the Kimberley Alpine Resort is one of the most majestic locales in the Canadian Rockies. With a top elevation of 6,500 feet, the mountain offers skiers 1,800 acres of terrain. The resort offers eight lifts, ski and snowboarding lessons, nighttime skiing, and equipment rentals. The Kimberley Alpine Resort is open between November and April and offers trips up the North Star Express to the top of the mountain during the summer months. With several accommodations to pick from, daycare and restaurants are also available on the hill, several of which are open year-round.
If cross-country skiing is your passion, take a class at the Kimberley Nordic Center, which offers expert instruction for both adults and children. Here you will find a multitude of double and single tracks that accommodate both the beginner and advanced cross-country skier. Other locations are available as well for the skier who prefers creating his or her own track.

Snowshoeing and Snowmobiling
Travel the area by snowshoe or snowmobile and discover the beauty of Kimberley’s wilderness. With tours of varying lengths and difficulty, head over to Powder Hound’s Tours where you can participate in the Wilderness Run, a three-hour snowmobile ride that puts you right in the middle of Kimberley’s back country. Visit the Kimberley Alpine Resort to join the Summit Descent Guided Tour where you will take the North Star Express quad up the mountain and then to snowshoe down the hill after the last ski run of the day. Tours include all equipment and snacks.

Related posts:

• Fernie, British Columbia Activities at a Glance
• The British Columbia Rockies Activities at a Glance
• Golden, British Columbia Activities at a Glance
• Revelstoke, British Columbia Activities At a Glance
• Jasper, British Columbia Activities At a Glance