Ride this safe, glass-enclosed gondola system to the top of Sulphur Mountain for unparalleled views of Banff and the Rocky Mountains. The eight-minute journey is a year-round attraction, and during the summer you can hike around the summit area. Marvel at the breathtaking and photo-worthy vistas from the observation deck, have a snack and visit the gift shop. Check the website as the hours of operation are subject to change without notice and vary seasonally.
Just a short drive away from Banff lie the pristine Vermilion Lakes. The three lakes lie sprawled at the foot of Mount Norquay, surrounded by the peaks of the Canadian Rockies and sheltered by the blue canopy of an open sky. The lakes and their surroundings offer visitors a chance to indulge in a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, canoeing and wildlife watching. The site is especially popular amongst amateur and professional photographers who cannot resist the lure of the lakes' untouched beauty. The lakes are clearly visible from the highway and make a remarkably breathtaking sight indeed, especially at sunset when the scene is awash in the red, gold and crimson hues of the setting sun. The scene inspires romance and is a great choice for a leisurely drive on date night.
Located just 2 kilometers (1.3 miles) from the city center, the Bow Falls are among Banff's top attractions. Though not particularly high, these falls are wide and paint a mesmerizing picture against the forest-covered landscape. Outdoor enthusiasts can take the Bow Falls Trail and hike to the falls. The scenery is picturesque and the trail is easy for all ages. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like elk and bears during your visit. Don't miss this easy-to-reach photo op while visiting the city; you're sure to create memories you'll cherish for years to come.
Visitors to the Cave and Basin National Historic Site will learn all about Canada's National Parks System, as this was e country's first national park, set up in 1885. The site offers visitors a glimpse into the world of the parks system through hands-on displays in a fascinating interpretive center. Outdoor lovers will find fascinating trails that wind through the beautiful surrounding area and down into a cave system that can be visited on guided tours or individually. Warm mineral springs are located within the caves, while many species of wildlife can be seen in the forests surrounding the center.
Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies celebrates the arts and culture of the Rocky Mountains and Banff National Park. The Whyte's art collection reflects the evolution of visual arts in the Rockies, featuring many local artists. The history of mountain recreation, transportation and commerce, pioneering artifacts, Native Canadian materials and Japanese materials make up the museum's unique Heritage Collection. The museum shop offers a large selection of books, postcards and posters devoted to area's culture. Call ahead for more details.
These steaming sulfur pools in the mountains which have been around since 1883, are frequented by locals and visitors alike as they seek to soak away their skiing and hiking aches. Especially inviting in winter and on cold rainy days, these hot pools are open year round. Located 1,585 metres (5200.131 feet) high, it is famous for being Canada's highest hot spring. The water flows from the Sulphur Mountain Thrust Fault and the source is believed to be Mount Rundle. When the flow is affected during winters, local municipal water is added to the pool. For a touch of extra luxury, there are spa services offered on site, including massages, facials, and soothing body treatments.
This massively huge ski terrain is spread over 15,765 square kilometers (6086.9005 square miles) to give tourists of all kind, an incomparable skiing experience. A variety of options are available for everyone, right from the beginners to the veterans, who like to have an alluring encounter with dry, milky-white, flossy powder snow. Not only that the CMH - HeliSkiing has clean-hand skill of 45 years, it is also one of the largest ski resorts in the world. Find all the other latest information in detail on the website.
Lake Minnewanka presents some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in all of Banff National Park. This tour operator runs excursions out on the lake in their glass-enclosed boats. Enjoy an interpretive tour and watch for wildlife on the lake's edge. The boats are heated, so weather will never spoil your trip. For fishermen, this company offers chartered Lake Trout and Whitefish fishing excursions.
Centennial Park is a beautiful oasis in the heart of Canmore. Surrounded by mountains on all sides, unwind on its verdant lawns and take in breathtaking vistas. This park comprises of the Stan Rogers Stage and the Centennial Field. The open-air venue hosts an array of cultural and community events like Canada Day festivities, Shakespeare in the Mountains, marathons, concerts and music festivals. Their running track, playground and sports areas are available for soccer and rugby.
Arresting icy blue waters of the Barrier Lake are beautifully contrasted with striking mountain backdrops in the Bow Valley area. A trailhead that begins from the Barrier Dam stretches along the length of this pristine lake, allowing visitors to drink in its beauty. There is also a lovely look out point further to the trail, providing expansive views of the Alberta region. The Barrier Lake is famous for river paddling and other water sports during warmer months.
If reading is your first love, then you should definitely visit the Banff Public Library. This massive library is home to a brilliant collection of books, records, DVDs, multimedia, CDs, maps, magazines and newspapers. Find books in myriad languages, rare tapes, local records and information, government documents and papers, dictionaries and encyclopedias at your disposal as you peruse their extensive collection of treasures. A separate reading room for kids ensures that they get their own space to explore. The library also encourages generous donations by members and non-members.