2018 Experience the Mountain Parks

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EXPERIENCE 2018/2019

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The Mountain Parks

Travel Guide to Western Canada

21 Helpful Map Pages New Beginnings

Mountain Weddings Headbanger Craft Beer Campground Directory Icefields Parkway

Photo & Selfie Contests

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Experience the Mountain Parks Welcome to Canada’s Mountain National Parks!

2017 was an important year in Canada. It marked our nation’s 150th Birthday which attracted a record numbers of visitors to our parks. We also experienced summer wildfires that destroyed tens of thousands of hectares of forests. So we are dedicating this issue to “New Beginnings”.

Experience the Mountain Parks is the only guide to all 7 parks. For many, it becomes a trusted companion because of the stories, hidden gems, compelling images, maps, and more maps: everyone loves maps! So keep it close.

Wildfires are a natural part of the life-cycle of any forest and while we wrestle with preservation and conservation, we also recognize the importance of prescribed burns and wildfires as a means to deplete fuel sources and allow for the regrowth and regeneration of our ecosystems.

We sincerely hope that you have a magical time. We know Experience the Mountain Parks can help you enjoy your visit, and we are truly honoured to be of service.

You’ll be taking a lot of pictures in the mountain national parks. Upload your best photos and selfies to our annual reader contest (see pg 65) for a chance to win a Getaway to Sunshine Village and much more!

Bob Harris

From our Mobile Library, you can seamlessly share your discoveries with your friends & family via Social Media. Check out ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Library. Pls use #ExperienceOurParks

Our Contributors

Ward Cameron is

Chic Scott has devoted

a naturalist, author, photographer, storyteller and one of only six master naturalists in the area.

For the past two decades, he has been sharing the nature and history of western Canada, with groups from all over the world. Let him personalize a tour for you and your friends.

WardCameron.com

his life to skiing and climbing. Chic is an honorary member of the Calgary Mountain Club, Association of Canadian Mountain Guides and Alpine Club of Canada.

A recipient of the Banff Mountain Film Festival Summit of Excellence Award, Chic lives in Banff, where he continues to write, lecture and, of course, ski.

(The Mount Royal Hotel pg 22)

(Flora & Fauna in the Mountain Parks pg 46)

Graeme Pole is

Johanna Silver is

Andrew Penner is

the best-selling author of thirteen books that describe the natural history and the human history of western Canada.

Three of his titles have been finalists in the Banff Mountain Book Festival.

His most recent is the novel, Siren Call.

an English and drama teacher who moonlights as a wedding photographer. She lives in St. Albert, Alberta with her husband Shane and their two sons, Sullivan and Slater. Aside from taking photos, Johanna loves going exploring and taking her family on adventures, especially to the mountains.

(An Unforgettable Mountain Wedding pg 36)

an independent writer and photographer living in Calgary, Alberta. His work has been featured in Westworld, Westjet Magazine, Golf Magazine, Golf Tips, Golf Canada, and many leading golf and lifestyle publications.

When not travelling or working, he enjoys reading, movies, and chilling out in the backyard with his wife, Dawn, and their four boys..

(Headbanging in Radium pg 50)

Visit his website: mountainvision.ca (Waterton Lakes National Park pg 10)

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Experience the Mountain Parks Experience the Mountain Parks CMI Publishing is a division of Complete Marketing Inc., a privately owned company with offices in Calgary, Alberta. We specialize in the production of visitor guides and maps in both print as well as digital formats. Printed copies are delivered in bulk to our network of distribution outlets throughout the region. Travellers are encouraged to pick up a FREE printed copy through these outlets or use a mobile-friendly edition of this, or any of our current or archived guides from our Mobile Library at ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Library Please support our advertisers and sponsors. If you get the chance, kindly mention where you saw their ad. Without their support this guide would not be possible.

Publisher: Bob Harris, CMI Publishing bob@cmipublishing.ca Ph: (403) 259.8290 Designer: Christine Karchewski ckarchewski@extenddesign.ca Cartographer: Rob Storeshaw robstoreshaw@shaw.ca Book Keeper: Adrienne Albrecht bookkeeper@cmispeakers.com Advertising Sales Reps: Dan Clements, Allen Gibson, Joseph Macdonald, Brian Peck Dale & Kelly Schultz

Circulation: Ian Klein, Warren & Sandy Pearson Dale, Kelly & Carla Schultz Distribution Outlets: Through most Visitor Information Centres, AMA Travel Offices, Chinook Country Tourist Association, retail stores, attractions, hotels and motels in the region. For a complete list: experiencemountainparks.com/our-distributors Cover photo: Courtesy of Nicholas Taffs Title: Summit Sun Taken: Canmore, Alberta Share Your Experience: Upload your selfies, photos and videos to be eligible to win great prizes ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Contests Follow us at twitter.com/BHarris_Calgary

Sister Publications Include: Experience the Cowboy Trails, Experience the Dinosaur Trails, Experience Calgary & Kananaskis, Experience Jasper Visitor Map, Experience Alberta’s Coal History, and Experience Kananaskis Trail Maps

Table of Contents Destinations Banff National Park 17 Glacier National Park 60 Golden 57 Icefields Parkway 33 Jasper National Park 28 Kootenay Rockies 44 Radium Hot Springs 48 Revelstoke 62 Waterton Lakes National Park 10 Wells Gray Provincial Park 41 West Kootenays 64 Yoho National Park 54

Specialty Pages Alberta’s Historic Sites 16 An Unforgettable Mountain Wedding 36 Campground Directory 66 David Thompson Corridor 26 Discover Our Craft Beer 52 Experience Lake O’Hara 56 Flora and Fauna in the Mountain Parks 46 Headbanging in Radium Hot Springs 50 Honeymoon Getaway 39 New Beginnings 8 Photo Contest 65 Sunshine Meadows 24 The Mount Royal Hotel 22 Wildfire in Kootenay National Park 42

Map Pages

PHOTO CONTEST Share your Mountain Experience to Win a Sunshine Getaway - 3 nights in a Deluxe Room for of 3 - Dining Room Gift Certificate - Gondola Passes for 3 - Interpretive Guided Hike Sunshine Meadows

See pg 65 for more information 5 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Alberta 7 Banff National Park 18 Banff Townsite 20 Bow Valley Parkway 21 British Columbia 40 Columbia Valley 44 David Thompson Corridor 26 Glacier & Mt. Revelstoke National Parks 61 Icefields Parkway 34 & 35 Jasper National Park 28 Jasper Townsite 31 Kootenay National Park 45 Lake Louise Townsite 25 Radium Hot Springs Townsite 51 Waterton Lakes National Park 15 Waterton Townsite 14 Wells Gray Provincial Park 41 West Kootenays 64 Yoho National Park 55

Experience the Mountain Parks

CANADA’S GOT OVER 9,000,000 KM².

THAT’S A LOT OF GROUND TO COVER.

WOODS.CA 6 | Enter Our Photo & Selfie Contests

Experience Alberta

Alberta Fast Facts Capital City: Edmonton Population: 4.32 million History: Entered Canadian Confederation in 1905 Total Area: 661,848 km sq/255,541 mi sq Highest Point: Mount Columbia, 3,747 m/12,293 ft Lowest Point: Slave River, 152 m/499 ft above sea level Longest River: Peace River, 1,923 km/1,195 mi Provincial Flower: Wild Rose Provincial Tree: Lodgepole Pine Provincial Bird: Great Horned Owl Provincial Fish: Bull Trout Provincial Motto: “Strong and Free�

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New Beginnings

Waterton Lakes National Park Fire – 2017 All Photos Courtesy of Parks Canada

The summer of 2017 was a busy one for Parks Canada. We welcomed a record number of visitors to celebrate Canada 150 with free admission to Parks Canada places. In the midst of this, there were a significant number of wildfires.

Parks Canada’s National Fire Management Team worked with local and provincial fire and emergency management agencies to manage wildfires in the mountain national parks, including four larger fires that burned thousands of hectares in Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier National Park and the Verdant Creek fire in Kootenay National Park near Banff.

When you visit the mountain national parks, you will most likely come across areas that were impacted by wildfire. Some were prescribed fires (intentionally lit to help restore healthy ecosystems) and some are from wildfires. You may also notice

Kootenay National Park Fire – 2017

that since the fires, some landscapes have evolved significantly.

Despite the size of some areas impacted by fire, you will see an abundance and diversity of herbs, grasses, tree seedlings and flowering plants thriving in the areas that were burned. This is an incredible chance to see the fascinating beginnings of the vegetation communities that establish after a fire.

Fire is a natural process. The forests in our national parks have historically depended on fire to be healthy, with many plants and animals adapting to and reliant on fire. It creates diversity in forests and improves wildlife habitat by creating mosaics of different forest ages and composition. The many species of plants that sprout after a fire attracts a diversity of wildlife.

Wildfires are not new events, however over the past few years, we have seen wildfires starting earlier and the seasons have

Glacier National Park Fire – 2017

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New Beginnings

Members of Parks Canada’s Fire Team – 2017 All Photos Couretsy of Parks Canada

been drier and hotter than normal. These factors can lead to larger, more severe wildfires throughout the parks.

Residents and visitors are naturally concerned about the threat of wildfires. Parks Canada has a team of highly skilled experts who have successfully managed fire within national parks for decades. The first priority of Parks Canada fire management program is the safety of the public and infrastructure.

Parks Canada monitors and manages wildfires throughout the fire season. Our fire management professionals are also world leaders with over thirty years of experience in the planning and implementation of prescribed fires. These intentially-lit, wellplanned fires are used to restore and maintain the ecological integrity of national parks and historic sites when the weather and conditions are safe and appropriate to do so. Prescribed

fires, along with vegetation thinning techniques to manage forest fuels, are also widely used to reduce the risk of wildfires near communities and infrastructure.

As the country’s largest tourism provider, we provide visitors with meaningful, safe and enjoyable experiences. Plan ahead for the best possible experience. Find information and key updates on the Parks Canada’s website or Parks Canada app, available for download on your mobile device. When arriving in a park, be sure to stop at a Visitor Centre for the most up to date information and follow Parks Canada and the Mountain National Parks on social media and share your experiences.

Information on the effects of the wildfires in the mountain national parks that may be relevant to your trip, including area closures, can also be found at pc.gc.ca.

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Experience Waterton Lakes National Park

The summer 2017 Kenow Mountain Wildfire burned 19,303 hectares within Waterton Lakes National Park – just over onethird of the park’s area. As a result, about half of Waterton is presently closed to public access. Fire is a natural and required element in this landscape. While Parks Canada regroups and nature rejuvenates, you still have opportunities to enjoy time in Waterton, where mountains and prairie meet.

Bison Paddock - To reach the viewpoint, follow Hwy 5 and Hwy 6 to the north boundary of the park. The 300 m viewpoint trail is wheelchair accessible.

The fescue grass and wildflowers of the Bison Paddock prairie are a remnant of the natural vegetation of the northern interior plains where, in 1790, as many as 60 million bison roamed.

The accounts of white explorers describe having to wait days for migrations of the animals to pass. When horses and rifles appeared on the bison’s range, the species was subjected to a senseless slaughter. Settlers burned habitat and ploughed it.

Diseases imported by domestic cattle also took a toll. By 1890, the population of the plains bison had dropped to 1090. The

decimation was a tragedy unparalleled in Canadian history.

Coupled with white settlement and the creation of reserves, the eradication of wild bison spelled the end of traditional ways for First Peoples of the plains.

Walking Coyote saved the plains bison from extinction when he captured animals in southern Alberta in 1874. He sold some of these bison to two ranchers in Montana. In 1907, the Canadian government purchased 716 bison from the captive Montana herd. Descendants of these animals now constitute the exhibition herd at Waterton, established by Parks Canada in 1952. The herd typically numbers between 12 and 20. As the Kenow Mountain fire advanced in September 2017, Parks Canada evacuated the bison. The fire destroyed the handling facility. It is not known when the bison will be returned, but the grasslands, naturally regulated by fire and in full view from the viewpoint, will soon recover.

Kootenai Brown’s Grave - John Kootenai Brown epitomized the “wild west” of the 1800s. He served with the British Army in India and prospected for Cariboo gold. He ran whiskey,

The 2017 Kenow Wildfire impacted Waterton Lakes National Park areas and facilities.

To find out what is currently open and closed in the park, please visit pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/waterton/visit/ideale_best 10 | Enter Our Photo & Selfie Contests

Experience Waterton Lakes National Park and serving as a Pony Express rider, his pre-Waterton life was an encyclopaedia of adventure. Brown first saw the Waterton Lakes in 1865. He returned three years later to settle near the mouth of Blakiston Creek, the first of five locations where he lived in what is now Waterton.

Brown’s idyllic life of guiding and trapping ended in the 1890s.

He witnessed the demise of the bison. Increasing numbers of visitors began to threaten other wildlife. Ranchers pressured the government to set aside land in 1895 – the Kootenay Lakes Forest Park Reserve, the forerunner of Waterton.

At the age 71, Brown became the park’s first employee and guardian; a position he held for three years. The park’s area was then increased thirty-fold requiring a younger man in the patrol saddle. Brown was buried in 1916 where this trail ends, on the shore of Lower Waterton Lake, between the graves of his two wives, Olivia and Isabella.

Access the trail on the east side Hwy 5, 3 km south of Hwy 6, 5.4 km north of Waterton Park village. The path leads gently downhill for 500 m through fescue prairie. There is a bike lock-up at the trailhead.

Chief Mountain Highway - The 22.5 km drive along Chief Mountain Highway between Hwy 5 and the US border offers panoramic views of Waterton’s front-range peaks.

The highway skirts the eastern edge of the park, and forms part of the parks boundary. The landscape is a mosaic of grassland and wetlands; the kettle lakes provide important habitats for ungulates and migratory birds. At km 15.4, you may stop at Chief Mountain Overlook, which grants an impressive view of the Waterton Valley to the northwest, and Chief Mountain to the south. Further south, the highway crosses the Belly River.

Nínaiistáko is the Blood (Kainai First Nation) name for Chief Mountain. It means, “mountain that stands apart.” It’s an apt label; the mountain’s east face rises 457 m above the plain and dominates the landscape. Chief Mountain is at the leading edge of the Lewis Thrust, one of the larger on Earth. It slid 140 km during creation. In geologic terms, Chief Mountain is a klippe – the remnant of the eroded, leading edge of the thrust sheet. The peoples of the Blackfoot Confederacy consider Nínaiistáko a sacred place. If you plan to enter the US at Chief Mountain Border Crossing, ensure you have proper ID. By: Graeme Pole

Photo by Jarrod Lopiccolo

e r u t n e v d A t x e N Find Youraterton, Alberta In W

Crandell Mountain Lodge

Pearls Cafe and Pizza of Waterton

Crandell Mountain Lodge offers the charm of a B&B with the comfort of a lodge. crandellmountainlodge.com 1-866-859-2288

Two delicious restaurants under one roof! pearlscafe.ca | pizzaofwaterton.com (403) 859-2660

Aspen Village

An 80 suite, full service hotel featuring the onsite Vimy’s Lounge & Grill restaurant. watertonlakeslodge.com 1-888-985-6343

Offering a wide variety of room types. aspenvillageinn.com 1-888-859-8669

Chief Mountain an d Belly River Photo Courtesy Gr aeme Pole

Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort

Vimy’s

LOUNGE & GRILL

11 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

PIZZA OF WATERTON

Experience Waterton Lakes National Park

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Experience Waterton Lakes National Park

PLENTY OF

Perfect

mywaterton.ca 13 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience Waterton Lakes National Park Cruise Waterton Lake

Summer Events

403-859-2362 watertoncruise.com

Waterton Wildflower Festival June 14 - 19, 2018

Step back in time, as you take a historic cruise from Waterton Lakes National Park, Canada to Goat Haunt, USA.

Join in a variety of activities celebrating Waterton’s wildflowers.

Visit watertonwildflowers.com

Blackfoot Arts & Heritage Festival July 23 - 25, 2018

Participate in traditional and contemporary aboriginal dancing, music, art, and cuisine.

Waterton Wildlife Festival September 13 - 16, 2018

Waterton’s wildlife is at its best in the fall.

This weekend features a variety of wildlife events. Visit watertonwildlife.com for more information.

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CAMERON BAY

See Legend on page 67

Experience Waterton Lakes National Park See Campground Directory on pg 67 See Legend on page 67

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The 2017 Kenow Wildfire burned through much of Waterton Lakes National Park. It affected many of the popular destinations such as: Red Rock Canyon, The First Oil Well in Western Canada, and Cameron Lake. Waterton Townsite was not significantly affected by the fire and is still open for visitors.

There are lots of ways to enjoy Waterton. Please refer to pg 10 for several fun experiences.

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U.S. Canada/U.S. Chief Mountain International Port of Entry Customs 17 Open mid-May to end-September

Waterton Lakes National Park | Alberta, Canada

Note: Alpine Stables As a result of the Kenow Fire, Alpine Stables will only be able to operate at limited capacity for 2018. They will be working with The Trail Riders of the Canadian Rockies to offer overnight rides. Please ensure you call for availability at 403-859-2462

Waterton’s Only Lakefront Hotel

Waterton’s All-Suite Hotel

Lakefront Rooms • Serenity Spa • Glacier Bistro Thirsty Bear Saloon • Fireside Lounge Lakeside Chophouse Honeymoon Suites with Jacuzzi Tubs

Open year round Fireplace & Jacuzzi in every suite Deluxe, Romantic and Loft Suites Full Amenities

1.888.527.9555 | www.bayshoreinn.com

1.866.621.3330 | www.watertonsuites.com

15 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

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Experience Banff National Park Banff National Park (BNP) runs northwesterly from Canmore to the Columbia Icefield. It is the birthplace of Canada’s national park system. Established in 1885, after three railway workers discovered a cave containing hot springs, BNP has become a world class destination, hosting an estimated 4 million visitors each year. Our map on pg 18 details eight of the many popular attractions in the park and also provides you with the locations of the campgrounds.

The international airports in Calgary and Edmonton serve travellers flying into the region. Buses run to BNP year round, from each of these large urban centres.

Both Via Rail and Rocky Mountaineer Vacations operate rail passenger sightseeing trips in western Canada, with stops in Banff and Jasper from May to October.

Within BNP are two important communities: the Town of Banff and the Village of Lake Louise. Both are located along the Trans-Canada Highway. They’re small, so it’s easy to get around either community without your vehicle. That’s great because parking is at a premium and some lots cannot accommodate large vehicles such as RVs. Street parking and municipal lots are free, but have time restrictions.

“Roam” is the name of the local public transit system. It provides safe, affordable and environmentally friendly bus service throughout the Banff town site.

You will find our map of the Town of Banff on pg 20, along with 15 map keys starting on pg 19, to ensure you have a magical time.

With a record number of visitors expected in the national parks this summer, the owners of HopOnBanff claim their service is simply going to change the way visitors see the Park. Buy a Day Pass, hop on and hop off as you like, and avoid the hassle of finding a parking spot. HopOnBanff is safe, affordable, and eco-friendly.

Similarly, Sunshine Meadows offers a Banff to Sunshine Shuttle Service that will pick you up from nine convenient locations in Banff. Their summer service is free and runs daily from 7:00 – 17:00 from June 29 – September 23, 2018 The Legacy Trail runs 26 km along the highway right-of-way from Banff to Canmore. Part of The Great Trail, formerly the Trans-Canada Trail, it is a paved, recreational trail suitable for walking, bicycling, and in-line skating.

Located 45 min west of Banff is the Village of Lake Louise.

The mountains that surround are internationally renowned for their beauty. Lake Louise is called the Hiking Capital of Canada. In the summer, go for a simple stroll around the lake, a physically demanding climb, or be whisked away in a gondola to the top of the world. You’ll find our map of Lake Louise on pg 25 along with important map keys and a valuable coupon for the gondola!

17 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience Banff National Park Town of Jasper, JASPER NATIONAL PARK (233 km from Lake Louise)

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Calgary (128 km from Banff)

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Distance (km) from Banff/Lake Louise 3/49 Backswamp 6/46 Mule Shoe 8/44 Prescribed Burn 11/41 Sawback 13/39 Hillsdale 16/36 Pilot Pond 21/31 Moose Meadow 26/26 Castle Cliffs 28/24 Storm Mountain 40/12 Baker Creek 48/4 Morant’s Curve

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2018-04-24 4:41:11 PM

Experience Banff National Park Banff National Park Map Keys

Banff Townsite Map Keys

See map page 18

See map page 20

2 Johnston Canyon

1 Parks Canada Visitor Centre

25 km (30 min) from Banff Exciting cat-walks cling to the canyon walls.

Interpretive Display, 1.1 km (20 min) to the Lower Falls, 2.7 km to the Upper Falls.

Stay on the trail and away from the edge.

224 Banff Avenue and 327 Railway Avenue 403-762-1550

2 Cave & Basin National Historic Site

311 Cave Avenue. The birthplace of Canada’s national park system.

3 Village of Lake Louise - Most Services Parks Canada Visitor Centre by Samson Mall. Ride the Gondola mid-May to mid-Oct. “The Hiking Capital of Canada” reflects the best high elevation hiking in the Rockies - including the Plain of Six Glaciers, and the famous Iceline Trail in Yoho National Park. See pg 25 for Shuttle Service Along the Icefields Parkway Hwy 93

3 Banff Park Museum National Historic Site

91 Banff Ave (by the Bow River Bridge) Discover Banff’s wildlife 403-762-1558 sh Red Paintbru

- Courtesy of

a Lloyd Dykstr

Named for the series of glaciers lining this route, the parkway is one of the world’s great mountain highroads. This drive along the “backbone of the continent” from Lake Louise to the town of Jasper takes half a day, with time to stop and admire the views. Stock up on camera supplies.

Bow Falls & Banff Springs Hotel National Historic Site

For details turn to pg 34 & 35

Magnificent views from either side of the Bow River.

4 Crowfoot Glacier

34 km (25 min) from Lake Louise A century ago, there were three “toes” of ice here.

How many can you see today?

Baby Bear - Courtesy

Upper Hot Springs Pool

1-800-767-1611 Mountain Avenue. Heritage Bath House Locker, swimsuit and towel rentals, Café, and Gift Shop. Open year-round.

Summer 9 am - 11 pm. hotsprings.ca

of Hilke Beuck

5 Bow Summit and Peyto Lake Viewpoint

Banff Gondola & Sulphur Mountain

40 km (30 min) from Lake Louise - Interpretive Display 2088 m (6849’) above sea level. A short walk from the parking area leads to a view of brilliant turquoise Peyto Lake and, in July and August, an astonishing array of alpine flowers.

1-800-760-6934 Mountain Avenue. Open year-round. Take the Gondola to the summit for breathtaking views. Interpretive boardwalk to historic exhibit.

Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum

6 Mistaya Canyon

72 km (50 min) from Lake Louise Only 10 min by trail from the road. Look for rounded potholes and a natural arch on the canyon walls.

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nderson of James A

7 Saskatchewan Crossing

403-762-2388 1 Birch Avenue. Aboriginal history, displays, live performances and demonstrations.

Operated by several First Nations including the Cree, the Blackfoot Confederacy, Tsuu T’ina and the Stoney. buffalonationsmuseum.ca.

Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies

77 km (55 min) from Lake Louise - Interpretive Display Three rivers converge here: the Mistaya (Great Bear) River from the south, the Howse River from the west (the route used in 1807 by David Thompson to cross the Great Divide), the North Saskatchewan from the north - arising in the Columbia Icefield and emptying into Lake Winnipeg. Services available April - October.

403-762-2291 111 Bear Street. Brings mountain history, art and culture alive. Special learning programs for young children. whyte.org.

Vermilion Lakes

The turnoff is 1 km west of Banff, on the south side of the Trans-Canada Highway. Enjoy views of Mount Rundle from the pull-outs along this road.

8 Columbia Icefield and Info Centre

130 km (1.5 hrs) from Lake Louise 90 min Motorized Tours take you onto the glacier.

Glacier Exhibits illustrate the effects of global warming. Restaurant, picnics, rooms, guided ice walks and more. Most Services available May 1 - Oct 15.

The Cascades of Time Garden

Flower gardens with walking path behind the Banff Park Administration Building. Great for families: FREE ADMISSION. Open Daily.

Limited availability. Construction and closure until mid-summer.

Cascade Ponds (Minnewanka Loop)

Elk - Courtesy of Wendy And

erson

19 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

10 min - A favourite with locals and visitors alike.

Grassy meadows, clear shallow pools, and a small beach. Picnic areas with fire pits. Accessible on foot and bicycle via Banff Legacy Trail.

Experience Banff 13

LAKE MINNEWANKA

NOT TO SCALE CASCADE FIRE ROAD

Banff Townsite Map Keys

Upper Bankhead

An easy trail circles this shallow lake.

A small beach and good wildlife watching. Picnic tables.

Lake Minnewanka

A short interpretive trail leads to this superb view point, or book a rafting trip to view the Hoodoos from the Bow River.

(Lake of the Water Spirits) Boat tours available, May 14 - Oct. 10.

800-760-6934 Leisurely lakeside stroll to Stewart Canyon (30 min).

EWA NKA

Cascade Ponds

The Hoodoos (Tunnel Mountain Road)

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Charming short and easy stroll through the surface workings of the coal mine and the outline of the old town site. Picnic area and trailhead.

Road closed in winter.

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See Campground Directory on pg 66 See legend on page 67

2nd Floor - Cascade Shops

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Experience the Bow Valley Parkway Protecting wildlife is the foundation of a sustainable future for the parks and a great visitor experience. To ensure this special area remains a high quality home for wildlife, from March 1st to June 25th, travel by vehicle, bicycle, or foot is not permitted between 8pm - 8am on the 17 km section between Johnston Canyon Campground and the Trans-Canada Highway.

This travel restriction will allow wildlife to move unimpeded across the landscape, use high-quality habitat, and engage in normal behaviour. It is part of a larger action plan to ensure the ecologically rich Bow Valley Parkway area continues as a worldclass setting for visitors to learn about and experience the park, and as a safe environment for wildlife. All businesses remain open during this period of mandatory travel restriction and are easily accessible via the Castle Junction exit.

Johnston Canyon - Courtesy of: Leighton Lum

The Bow Valley Parkway is a very scenic, 48 km road that runs parallel to the Trans-Canada Highway between Banff and Lake Louise. Its eastern portion travels through a vital part of the park, called the montane, that provides critical habitat for large carnivores, including wolves, cougars and bears.

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BANFFSUNSHINEMEADOWS.COM

21 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

2018-04-24 4:41:11 PM

The Mount Royal Hotel

Digital Rendering of the Current Mount Royal Hotel Courtesy of Brewster Travel Canada

In July 2018, the Mount Royal Hotel will once again open its doors to guests from around the world. Located on the corner of Caribou Street and Banff Avenue, the Mount Royal Hotel has been an integral part of the Town of Banff for 110 years.

Severely damaged by a fire on December 29, 2016, the hotel will have been closed for 18 months and will have undergone a $45 million renovation which will once again establish it as the premier accommodation in the heart of Banff.

According to Dave McKenna, president of Brewster Travel Canada, “The Mount Royal Hotel is the historic centre of Banff.” It was here that local pioneers like Tom Wilson, Jim Brewster and Jim Simpson would gather by the fire to share a story and a glass of whisky and it was here in the 1930s that Erling Strom would meet and outfit his ski guests for the long trek into Mount Assiniboine Lodge. Banff old-timer Ralphine Locke remembered, “In the winter when the Banff Springs Hotel wasn’t open everyone came here. We spent a lot of time sitting in the Mount Royal Hotel listening to all the stories.”

Originally called the Banff Hotel, what would be renamed the Mount Royal Hotel opened its doors in 1908. A red brick structure with a turreted lead roof, it had 60 guest rooms, a dining room and a billiard room and was owned by Dave and Annie McDougall of Morley. In May of 1912, local outfitter and businessman Brewster purchased the hotel for $75,000, a huge real estate transaction at the time. Within a year he began to make his mark, nearly doubling the capacity of the hotel. Over the next four decades it was expanded, redecorated and modernized, with additions built in both 1944 and 1955 incorporating several lots along Banff Avenue.

On March 31, 1967, fire blazed through the hotel destroying the original dining and 60 guest rooms. Despite the intensity of the fire no lives were lost. Novelist Arthur Hailey was a hotel guest at the time and wrote a story for the Calgary Albertan newspaper in which he described the fire — “Never in my life have I seen a more spectacular fire. At its height, just before the walls fell outward, flames and sparks shot 100 ft high.”

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The Mount Royal Hotel Almost immediately after the fire Brewsters began planning for a new hotel of red brick, Rundle stone and cedar shakes that would be the most modern hotel in Banff. In June of 1968 the new Mount Royal Hotel opened its doors and for the next 50 years presided over the centre of Banff, like the Grand Dame of the town. In the early 1990s the Mount Royal Hotel was integrated with its neighbour, the Cascade Inn, and the hotel achieved its present reality of 135 rooms.

Just before New Year, 2016, a propane torch used in repairs at the hotel ignited a fire in the roof. At about 2:30 am an RCMP officer driving by the hotel noticed smoke and flames shooting from the roof. Three RCMP entered the building, where smoke was beginning to fill the halls, activated the alarm and began evacuating guests. Luckily the Banff Fire Department is located across the street from the hotel and within minutes had their hoses trained on the fire. Hotel staff and RCMP safely and efficiently evacuated all 297 guests and found them alternative accommodation in town. As well, most valuables like passports, wedding rings and Teddy Bears were also saved.

Fire crews from Lake Louise, Canmore and Exshaw joined the Banff fire crew and fought the blaze for more than 12 hours.

As soon as the fire was out and the hotel guests safely lodged, Brewster Travel Canada began planning a major rebuild of the Mount Royal Hotel which would celebrate its colourful and romantic history. Dialog Design, a national architectural, engineering, interior design, urban design and planning firm was engaged to bring this dream to reality. According to Gerry Doering of Dialog, a lot of communication was required to come up with a story to honour the hotel’s complex past and so a patchwork quilt model was created to weave together the different eras of the hotel.

Recently Banff mayor, Karen Sorensen, thanked Brewster, “… for having vision and commitment to restore the Mount Royal Hotel to protect its heritage, treasure its history and invest in its and Banff’s future.” Hopefully the new Mount Royal Hotel will continue to welcome guests to the historic heart of Banff for another century.

By: Chic Scott

Mount Royal Hotel, 1935. WMCR Byron Harmon V263 / NA - 3438

Mount Royal Rotunda, 1920-1940. WMCR George Noble V469 / 2481

Picking up guests for Sunshine Ski Lodge, 1950, Mount Royal Hotel. WMCR Bill Gibbons V227-3009

23 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience Sunshine Meadows

Standish Viewing Deck, overlooking Rock Isle Lake, Laryx Lake & Grizzly Lake. Photo Courtesy of Banff Sunshine Meadows

Take time to enjoy a quite moment at the Monarch Lookout, Photo Courtesy of Dan Evans

From the placid waters of Laryx Lake, a loon releases a series of haunting calls that reach across the morning coolness of Sunshine Meadows. Even in the summer months, the morning is brisk at 2300m in the Rocky Mountains. Pastel-coloured wildflowers shake off the dew of evening’s chill and a plump ground squirrel meekly squeaks as it begins its busy routine of tunnelling, snacking, and snoozing. These tiny creatures greet the day in the presence of limestone giants; the Monarch, Spar Mountain, and Mt. Assiniboine stand sentry over the meadows as they have for millennia.

However you choose to enjoy the meadows, expect the trip to be stunning. Over 10 km of interconnected trails traverse the meadows and hug three emerald-blue lakes: Rock Isle, Laryx, and Grizzly. Situated atop the Continental Divide — the rocky spine that splits the Pacific from the Atlantic watershed— these lakes glimmer with the ancient minerals of the last ice age.

To connect with this protected environment is breathtaking, but the exertion needed for such a view won’t take your breath away. Sunshine Meadows is one of the few subalpine hiking destinations in the Rockies accessible for the entire family.

And this year it is easier than ever. From June 29 to Sept. 23, 2018 you can purchase a pass to ride the Sunshine Village gondola (Friday-Monday) or take the Scenic Alpine Shuttle (Tuesday-Thursday) from 8am-6pm. Once you have reached the village (full amenities are available), you can begin your hike or take advantage of the latest option of riding the chairlift to the top of Mt. Standish.

Alternatively, a longer and often-quieter hike will lead you to the Monarch viewpoint. Seated at the foot of Twin Cairns peak, this open expanse gives you the chance to glimpse a deer or even a grizzly foraging for flora, and to revel in the grandeur of the Monarch’s cliffs rising above the Simpson Valley.

For a short outing, be sure to ride the Standish chairlift, and hike down the trail to Rock Isle Lake, then take that trail north back to the village.

Trails are well maintained. Staying on trail ensures your safety, as well as the health of the sensitive ecosystem. Trail hosts offer regular interpretive tours from the top of Standish chair (we recommend making a reservation).

By Bree Kullman

For more information about accessing Sunshine Meadows via the gondola or shuttle visit banffsunshinemeadows.com 24 | Enter Our Photo & Selfie Contests

Experience Lake Louise

Skoki Ski Lodge National Historic Site

Lake Louise Ski area and Gondola

Expect crowds!

See legend on pg 67

4

Public parking fills quickly. Plan on visiting during the week before 10 am and after 3 pm Or take the free shuttle between the Lake Louise overflow parking area and Upper Lake Louise. Running daily between May 18 – Oct. 8

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FIELD 27 km GOLDEN 76 km VANCOUVER 795 km West

Road closed OCTOBER - MAY

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Consolation Lake

NOT TO SCALE

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Lake Louise Visitor Centre at Samson Mall Banff/Lake Louise Tourism 403-762-8421.

Parks Canada Visitor Centre 403-522-3833.

Exhibits explain the geology and history of the Canadian Rockies. Open 7 days a week.

For hours visit: pc.gc.ca/banff.

Lake Louise - 5 min from the Village Stoney Indians called it the "Lake of Little Fishes" The easy stroll around the lakeshore is stunning.

Access point for more difficult hikes.

Fairview Lookout

Paradise Valley

ROCKPILE

Larch Valley Sentinel Pass Eiffel Lake

3 Lakeshore

Moraine Lake - 20 min from the Village Nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks.

Hiking restrictions when grizzly bears in the area: tight groups of 4+ hikers. Open late May to early Oct.

Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola 4.5 km from the village; 403-522-3555 Summer Gondola runs mid-May to mid-Oct. but come back to ski early Nov. to mid-May.

25 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Moraine Lake

Experience the David Thompson Corridor Avoid the crowds while drinking in the incredible scenery.

Take the road less travelled.

David Thompson Country is a vast tract of land between Rocky Mountain House and Saskatchewan Crossing, where the David Thompson Highway (Hwy 11) intersects with the Icefields Parkway (Hwy 93). This area is often overlooked by travellers, however it is dotted with lakes, campground, lodges, resorts, and even a heli tour operator.

Rocky Mountain House Fur traders put Rocky Mountain House on the map 200 years ago when the North West Company and the Hudson’s Bay Company established trading post forts on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River. One famous resident was David Thompson, the greatest chronicler of his day of landscapes, people and nature. His famous map of the Province of Canada covered 1/6 of the continent, with unprecedented accuracy.

The Rocky Mountain House trading post fort was eventually deserted in 1875, however it lives on as a National Historic Site that commemorates the rich era of the fur traders and

Sn

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Jasper

Nordegg Located 90 km west of Rocky Mountain House, Nordegg has slipped off the radar for 50 years. Travellers are starting to rediscover this rugged countryside. You can enjoy a wide range of summer activities, from bird watching and wildlife viewing to mountain biking and fly fishing. Lounge around the campfire in one of over 300 campsites. Swing a club at the 9-hole golf course, or live out your cowboy dreams on a horseback.

In 1907, a colourful entrepreneur, Martin Nordegg headed west with his sights set on the coal seams on the eastern slopes.

By 1911, he had built the Brazeau Collieries. His efforts were key to developing a major industry as immigrant miners arrived from Europe. Visit the Brazeau Collieries National Historic Site and the Nordegg Heritage Centre for more.

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explorers of Western Canada. Stroll along the interpretive trails. The kids will love the pint-sized play fort and puppet theatre along with a chance to see the bison.

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Experience David Thompson Country Throughout the corridor, Westward Bound offers travellers more than 320 campsites. Most are pretty basic (toilets and water) and those are priced between $20 - $32 per night.

Without a doubt, the #1 natural year-round attraction along this corridor is Abraham Lake, a large, aquamarine reservoir created by the Bighorn Dam. Photographers flock here in the winter to take pictures of the gas bubbles frozen in the ice. And in the summer, hike up at least one of the adjacent hillsides for an incredible view of the lake and neighbouring peaks.

Windy Point Ridge is a 3.6 km hike (round trip) to an elevation of 2,060 m at “The Lookout” which is marked by a cairn and offers superb views of the surrounding terrain.

Hoodoo Creek is a short and spectacular hike to dramatic hoodoos. Perfect for the fossil hound this creek is actually a dry creekbed, located across the highway at Abraham Lake. The trail access is 3 km south of Windy Point.

You should plan to make a hike to Allstones Lake a full day hiking adventure. It’s a round trip of 13 km to an elevation of 1,890 m, but there are several worthwhile options which can

Rocky Mountain House

substantially extend your day, such as take time out to view into the rocky abyss of Allstones Creek. It is a long strenuous hike, but the reward is a beautiful view of Abraham Lake far below. Take hiking poles if you have them.

A less rigorous hike is the popular 4 km trail to Siffleur Falls.

It is located just west of Abraham Lake in the Kootenay Ecological Reserve and begins with a traverse across a suspension bridge over the North Saskatchewan River. On a hot day, the spray of water plunging spectacularly over a deep, narrow gorge is very refreshing.

The Kootenay Plains were visited by David Thompson in the early 1800’s and has long been important to Aboriginal people as evidenced by several sundance lodges. The plains protect one of the best examples of montane habitat in all of Alberta.

The unique grassland and forest mosaic provides important habitat for wildlife and is home to many species of rare plants.

This year, take the road less travelled. Enjoy the quieter pace and remarkable scenery along the David Thompson Corridor for camping, hiking, and to learn more about the rich history of this area and of our country.

National Historic Site

27 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience Jasper National Park Special Feature Miette Hot Springs 61 km (1 hr) North of Jasper on Hwy 16 & Miette Rd. The hottest mineral springs in the Canadian Rockies. Two refreshing cool pools. Towels, bathing suits & locker rentals. Open May to Oct. 1-800-767-1611

See Campground Directory on pg 66 See legend on page 67

Parks Canada continues to ensure that routes to Canada’s special places like Jasper National Park are protected for future generations to cherish and enjoy.

Bridge restoration, road paving and improvements to three intersections near the Jasper townsite, are underway on sections of Hwy 16, an essential national transportation corridor that passes through the largest of Canada’s mountain parks. Up to 55 km of paving also continues on the Icefields Parkway, the iconic drive that links Jasper and Banff National Parks.

Other projects for 2018 include, the addition of a bypass lane and third entry kiosk lane at the East Gate and road reconstruction on Marmot and Pyramid Lake Road. Due to construction at Mount Edith Cavell in 2018, Cavell Road will be closed until August 2018. A section of Hwy 93A (from just south of Wabasso Campground up to Geraldine Road) will also be closed from July 30 to October 31, 2018. More information on these road closures visit pc.gc.ca/jasper-infrastructure.

For the most up-to-date information on roads in Alberta, including Jasper National Park, dial 511 or visit 511.alberta.ca. For BC road information call Drive BC at 1-800-550-4997 or visit drivebc.ca.

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Experience Jasper National Park Jasper National Park Map Keys 1 The Town of Jasper - All Services

Jasper Park Information Centre 500 Connaught Dr.

Jasper National Park is the largest of Canada’s Rocky Mountain Parks, and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover the rugged mountains, glaciers, alpine meadows, forests, broad valleys, and wild rivers contained within more than 11,000 km2 of protected area. Wildlife is abundant here. It is common to see elk, bighorn sheep, deer, coyote and even black bear in the park.

2 Mount Edith Cavell

Jasper may have the greatest variety of accommodations in the mountain parks.

Within the park, you could pitch your tent, park your RV, stay in a wilderness hostel, or be pampered in a resort. In town, your options include hotels, motels, private home accommodations and B&B’s.

3 Athabasca Falls

All of these choices are excellent. Each will appeal to a wide range of travellers and several unique properties are available in each category. If you are looking for something a little different, consider a private cabin.

4 Sunwapta Falls

Typically located on the edge of town, cabins offer a rustic charm ideal for those who really just want to get away from it all. Decompress in privacy without sacrificing comfort. Use this opportunity to read a book, go for a stroll, run a trail or just gaze at the amazing night sky.

29 km (30 min) south of Jasper via 93A. A switchback road climbs 14.5 km (9 mi) to a popular viewpoint.

Trailers or RVs larger than 7 metres are not permitted.

Open mid June - Sept., Closed until August 2018.

Visit pc.gc.ca/jasper-infrastructure for information.

30 km (30 min) south of Jasper via 93A or 93.

A bridge and platforms give views of the thundering falls. Stay on the trail and inside the protective fences.

55 km (40 min) south of Jasper via 93. A paved road and short trail lead to the falls. Sunwapta is an indigenous term meaning “turbulent river.” Stop at the resort for a great meal and excellent gift ideas.

5 Columbia Icefield and Athabasca Glacier

103 km (75 min) from Jasper on the Icefields Parkway, Hwy 93 Refer to p. 28 & 29 for more information.

Guided glacier hikes (Icewalks) icewalks.com or phone 1-800-565-7547 (June - September) For Brewster’s Glacier Adventure, book your trip at the Icefields Centre or call 1-877-423-7433.

6 Jasper House National Historic Site

35km (30 min) North of Jasper on Hwy 16.

A short walk on an easy trail leads to an interpretive viewpoint looking beyond the Athabasca River towards the Jasper House historic site.

7 Maligne Canyon

11.5 km (15 min) east of Jasper on the Maligne Valley Road. 3.7 km interpretive trail with foot bridges over canyon. Stay away from the edge. Very deep (50 m) narrow canyon. In winter take a guided tour inside the gorge. It is unsafe to descend into the canyon without a professional guide.

8 Medicine Lake

27 km (30 min) from Jasper on the Maligne Valley Rd. The Maligne River flows in, but where does it flow out? Drained by one of the largest underground river systems in North America.

Maligne Lake

48 km (55 min) from Jasper on the Maligne Valley Rd. The beauty of this lake is legendary. A Boat Tour of this 22 km long lake is a “must see”. Chalet open mid-May to early October, 8:30 am - 7 pm.

Boat tours start when spring ice conditions permit.

Tour hours 10 am - 3 pm, extended to 5 pm in the summer. Call for a Reservation 1-888-285-0376. malignelake.com.

Experience Local Hospitality 150 homes offering affordable lodging from modest rooms to upscale suites Check Availability at

StayinJasper.com

Pick up a FREE copy of our Experience Jasper Visitor Map for more highlights and activities in both Jasper National Park and Jasper.

See pg 66 & 67 for Campgrounds Download our Travel Guides at ExperienceTravelGuides/Library 29 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience Jasper National Park If dark starry night skies give you goose bumps, you’ve come

Astronomy programs are offered daily at the Planetarium and

to the right place!

Jasper’s Dark Sky Festival is a “must see”. Since inception, this festival has grown into one of North America’s largest annual

The landscape within Jasper National Park is a vision during

celebrations of the night sky. Plan to return for the ultimate

daylight, but it also has a night time magic very rare in the

Jasper Dark Sky experience, from October 12-21, 2018 that

world these days. The park boasts one of the largest dark sky

includes:

preserves in the world. You can see dreamy nightscapes of

• Guided virtual tour in climate-controlled dome theatre

planets and constellations year-round, although the stars are

• See the local aboriginal First Nations constellations

brightest during the monthly phase of the new moon.

• Tour of the most powerful telescopes in the Rockies • See recent 4K sky imagery with a new video telescope

In March 2011 the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada

• Learn how to photograph auroras and the Milky Way

(RASC) officially designated Jasper National Park as a Dark

• Guided tour deep space and Q&A with astronomy expert

Sky Preserve (DSP). A DSP is an area in which no artificial lighting is visible and active measures are in place to promote

What to Bring? (in addition to warm clothes) You’ll be simply

the reduction of light pollution, the protection of nocturnal

amazed as to what you will be able to see with the naked eye,

habitat, and the visibility of the night skies.

but if you have a Smart Phone or an iPad, load up a GPS-based star finder program from your App Store, and get familiar with

While Jasper is nestled within soaring mountain ranges, it

it, before you leave home.

also has the largest clearings in the Rockies, ideal for dramatic open spaces for stargazing. This kind of wilderness astronomy

Your camera! Remember to take pictures of your experience

in the Canadian Rockies is a pursuit gaining real traction with

and enter our reader contest! (see pg 65)

parents and grandparents who take advantage of the perfect conditions to share this amazing experience with their child-

Image-stabilized binoculars feature optics that adjust many

ren. Families are replacing clumsy & expensive telescopes

times a second to counteract your unsteady hands, effectively

with iPads and GPS-based star-finders to browse their way

transforming such devices into small telescopes without the

around the vast sky.

need to pack a tripod.

For more information jasperdarksky.travel/partners and jasperplanetarium.com

Resort: 780-852-3779 Restaurant: 780-852-3535 www.beckerschalets.com

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Experience Jasper

See Campground Directory on pg 66 See legend on page 67

1 Jasper Information Centre

National Historic Site, 500 Connaught Dr. Open from 9 am - 5 pm Spring, Fall, and Winter with extended summer hours.

Friends of Jasper Gift Shop.

Jasper Information Centre: 780-852-6176 Tourism Jasper Visitor Desk: 780-852-6236

2 Patricia & Pyramid Lakes

5/7 km (10/15 min) drive from Jasper. Patricia Lake has a 2-3 hour loop trail. Read plaques for WWII historical significance. Enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming, cross-country skiing, trail rides, and snow shoeing. Easy to access.

3 Old Fort Point Loop

1.5 km (5 min) drive via 93A and Old Fort Point Road - 3.8 km loop (1-2 hr) fairly steep hike to the top of this popular hill that overlooks the town & Athabasca River.

4 Lakes Annette, Edith & Beauvert

5 km (10 min) drive via Hwy 16 Sandy beaches, swim in spring-fed “kettle” lakes 2.4 km (45 min - 1.5 hr) Wheelchair and stroller accessible interpretive trail.

5 Jasper SkyTram

7 km (15 min) drive from town Phone 866-850-8726. jasperskytram.com.

Open late Mar. to mid-Oct. (weather dependant).

Guided tours and stunning views from atop Whistlers Mountain. Canada’s longest and highest aerial tramway (7,500 ft. above sea level).

6 The Discovery Trail

This trail can be accessed at several points throughout Jasper. (8.3 km loop) Portions are wheelchair accessible downtown.

Suggested Stargazing Sites

31 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

7 Jasper-Yellowhead Museum & Archives

400 Bonhomme St.; 780-852-3013 jaspermuseum.org. Discover the spirit of Jasper. Admission Fee: Adults $7.

Permanent exhibits of Jasper’s history.

Monthly exhibits in Showcase Gallery.

Summer (mid May - mid Oct) 10 am - 5 pm Winter (Thurs. - Sun, only) 10 am - 5 pm

8 Fitness & Aquatic Centre & Arena

NEW Fitness Facility!

Arena, Indoor Climbing Wall, 50m Waterslide 25m Pool, Hot Tub & Steam Room, Showers Tennis & Raquetball Courts, Meeting & Event Facilities Fitness & Pool: 780-852-3663 Activity Centre: 780-852-3381

Experience the Mountain Parks

TAKE THE BITE OUT OF CAMPING

PROTECT YOUR FAMILY FROM MOSQUITOES AND TICKS Visit off.ca for more details

©2018 S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 300208069

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Experience the Icefields Parkway Turquoise lakes, forested valleys, ancient glaciers, tumbling waterfalls and mountain peaks as far as the eye can see come together to compose one of the world’s most scenic drives; the Icefields Parkway. This unlikely stretch of road takes you into the heart of Banff and Jasper National Parks where nature rules and one can’t help but feel overcome with wonder.

It is possible to travel this route in just three hours from Lake Louise to Jasper but it would be a crime. This is so much more than 232 km of road. It’s a journey through captivating landscapes and natural history. It presents the best hiking, biking and photo opportunities in the Canadian Rockies. There are unforgettable stops along the way – some off the beaten path.

Historic and scenic markers dot the Icefields Parkway but there are some locations tucked away, unsigned, where you may find your “mountain moment”. The most popular, photographed locations are often the ones that are easily accessed such as; Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, Mistaya Canyon, Athabasca Glacier, Columbia Icefields Centre, and Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls. Others that are well worth the hike include; Herbert Lake, Panther Falls, Parker Ridge, Tangle Falls and the two-for-one stop at Waterfowl Lakes Campground to take

TRAVEL TIPS

∙

PICNIC SPOTS

in Cephren Lake and Cirque Lake. These are just a few of the many stunning stops along the Icefields Parkway. Whether you just get out and look around or you take off on a half or full day hike, we recommend getting an early morning start as the lakes are still and wildlife viewing opportunities improve.

One of the best resources for an Icefields Parkway road trip is found at icefieldsparkway.com. This website gives you the best information on picnic spots, hikes, photo opportunities, wildlife sightings, and even is great resource for winter travel.

Since there is no cell service on the Parkway, the site offers a downloadable “Parkway Planner” or you can download a GPS tour guide that will point out the highlights and share some great history too.

If you are planning to stay for a night or two in Jasper and/or Lake Louise, this website has a special deal for hotel stays. Visit icefieldsparkway.com to receive 15% off your stay in Jasper at the Mount Robson Inn or in Lake Louise at the Mountaineer Lodge. Both properties offer super comfy accommodations as well as free breakfast and Wi-Fi. Let the Mount Robson Inn, Jasper and Mountaineer Lodge, Lake Louise connect you on your journey on one of the world’s most scenic drives.

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MAPS

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PHOTOS & MORE

V I S I T I C E F I E L D S PA R K WAY. C O M

EST B R U YO

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COOL DRIVE, HOT DEAL - SAVE UP TO 20% ON YOUR HOTELS IN JASPER & LAKE LOUISE

33 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Banff Lake Louise Tourism/Paul Zizka

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178 176

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122

119

113

108

111

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Nigel Pass Bridal Veil Falls

BANFF NATIONAL PARK

COLUMBIA ICEFIELD

ATHABASCA 3493 m PA RK ER

KITCHENER 3505 m SNOWDOME 3459 m

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Wilcox Pass Sunwapta Pass. Boundary between Banff and Jasper national parks

COLUMBIA 3750 m

THE TWINS 3561 m / 3686 m

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STUTFIELD 3453 m

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MONKHEAD 3211 m

MALIGNE 3200 m

Beaver Lake

Jacques Lake

SAMSON 3076 m

BRAZEAU 3525 m

CHARLTON 3260 m

UNWIN 3300 m

Cr Stanley Falls

Maligne Lake

Medicine Lake

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ALBERTA WOOLEY 3622 m 3405 m

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ROCHE BONHOMME 2459 m

CURATOR 2624 m

Honeymoon Lake Osprey Lake Buck Lake

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NELSON 3150 m

GONG 3121 m

Gong Lake

Sunwapta Falls

CHRISTIE 3102 m

Wabasso Lake

TEKARRA 2693 m

Five Lakes

HARDISTY 2715 m

KERKESLIN 2955 m

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104 106

CHABA 3020 m

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WHISTLERS 2469 m

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Kilometres 0

112 116

170 158 156 153 146 145 143 136 134 133 127

Buck and Osprey Lakes Sunwapta Falls Junction Services: (mid-May to mid-Oct) Road to Sunwapta Falls: 15 minute walk to lower falls Bubbling Springs Poboktan Creek Jonas Creek Rockslide CHABA Jonas Creek ICEFIELD Mushroom and Diadem Peaks Beauty Creek Beauty Creek Beauty Creek Tangle Falls. Watch for sheep!

Sunwapta Canyon, Mount Kitchener Icefield Centre (May 1 to Oct 15) Services: Parks Canada Information and Exhibits, Brewster Ice Explorer tours and guided icewalks Columbia Icefield Wilcox Creek

Jasper Townsite Whistlers (May to October) Jasper International Jasper Tramway (April to November) THE RAMPARTS Wapiti (Summer and Winter) Junction with Highway 93A. Access to: Marmot Basin Ski Area, Mount Edith Cavell Road (mid June to mid October: viewpoints, hiking, Tonquin Valley) and Wabasso.

Rejoins parkway at Athabasca Falls.

Valley of Five Lakes Wabasso Lake Whirlpool Valley, Mount Hardisty, Mount Kerkeslin and Mount Edith Cavell Horseshoe Lake Athabasca Falls Junction with Hwy 93A Athabasca Falls Mount Kerkeslin Goats and Glaciers Mount Fryatt HOOKER ICEFIELD Mount Christie Mount Christie Honeymoon Lake

CHA

60 72 74 77 84 85 87 94 96 97 103

200 198 196 193 192 189 181 180

221 216 205

9 14 25

30 32 34 37 38 41 49 50

226 224

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Stretching 230 km between Lake Louise and Jasper, this world-class journey amidst the peaks of the Canadian Rockies offers easy access to a vast wilderness of ancient glaciers. It’s complete with guided adventures onto the ice fields, majestic viewpoints and interpretive displays designed to enrich your understanding of glaciers and climate change.

el

It has been referred to as “The Back Bone of the Canadian Rockies”. National Geographic calls it “One of the World’s Ten Greatest Drives”. For many, it is the road trip of a lifetime.

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THE ICEFIELDS PARKWAY POINTS OF INTEREST

Experience the Icefields Parkway While plotting the border between Alberta and BC in the early 1900s, this roadway was the brainchild of Arthur O. Wheeler, who described this route as a “wonder trail”. Work began in 1931 as part of a depression-era public works program to put men to work, but the rugged terrain and short season meant the project took 9 years to complete.

Isolated for centuries, 1940 ushered in an era of tourism to the region when this road opened to the public. Today, more than a million travellers experience the parkway annually.

10 2

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BRITISH COLUMBIA

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119

111

35 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

227 230

3 0

18 16

24

33

34

37

212 214

206

197

196

193

TO FIELD, GOLDEN

Herbert Lake Junction: Trans-Canada Hwy and Icefields Parkway Lake Louise: 2 km Banff: 59 km

Molar Pass Hector Lake Hector Lake

Crowfoot Glacier Helen and Katherine Lakes, Dolomite Pass Mosquito Creek

Turnoff for services: Bow Lake

Peyto Lake Bow Glacier Bow Glacier Falls

Waterfowl Lakes, Mts. Chephren and Howse Snowbird Glacier Turnoff to Bow Summit area

Waterfowl Lake Chephren Lake, Cirque Lake

VICTORIA 3459 m

1

BOW 2868 m

TEMPLE 3543 m

Lake Louise

DALEY

ICEFIELD

WAPUTIK Hector Lake

BALFOUR 3272 m

Bow Lake

CROWFOOT 3050 m

WAPTA ICEFIELD

THOMPSON 3065 m

PEYTO 2970 m

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REDOUBT 2902 m DOUGLAS 3235 m

PTARMIGAN 3059 m

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See Legend on page 67

See Campground Directory on pg 66

Watch for highway workers as repaving continues throughout 2018

Between 1799 and 1875, five different fur trading posts existed along the banks of the North Saskatchewan River.

The explorations that were carried out from Rocky Mountain House

by David Thompson and others played a key role in determining the future shape of Canada.

TO ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE (175 km)

North Sa s

CYCLONE 3042 m

MOLAR 3002 m

qui Mos to C

DOLOMITE 2782 m

Lake Katherine

CIRQUE 2993 m

BOW PASS

2067 m

OBSERVATION 3174 m

WEED 3080 m

HECTOR 3394 m

LAKE LOUISE

Herbert Lake

93

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CALDRON Peyto 2917 m Lake

TOTEM 3155 m

MURCHISON 3333 m

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Saskatchewan Crossing

Waterfowl Lakes Noye

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Mistaya Lake

PATTERSON 3197 m

ARIES 2996 m

Chephren Lake Cirque Lake

HOWSE 3290 m

CHEPHREN 3266 m

EPAULETTE 3095 m

KAUFMANN 3109 m

SARBACH 3127 m

3261 m

WILSON ICEFIELD

93 WILSON

s

173 182 190

173

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Glacier Lake

ERASMUS 3265 m

Rampa

COLEMAN 3135 m SU NS ET PA

WEEPING WALL

CIRRUS 3270 m

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AMERY 3329 m

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CORONATION 3170 m

FORBES 3612 m

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ATHABASCA 3493 m PA RK ER

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COLUMBIA ICEFIELD

WILCOX PASS

ICEFIELD CENTRE

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FRESHFIELD ICEFIELD

FRESHFIELD 3337 m

LYELL 3520 m

LYELL ICEFIELD

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Mounts Amery and Saskatchewan Rampart Creek Glacier Lake Saskatchewan River Crossing Services (mid-March to mid-November): Junction with David Thompson Hwy (#11)

Coleman Creek Sunset Pass and Sunset Lookout

Weeping Wall Alexandra Trail, Castleguard Meadows, Thompson Pass

North Saskatchewan River, Cirrus Mountain Saskatchewan Glacier

Parker Ridge Nigel Pass Bridal Veil Falls

Hilda Creek

Sunwapta Pass. Boundary between Banff and Jasper national parks

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Between Jasper & Banff, Alberta Custom Bike Tours Available

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Visit the IceďŹ eld Parkway and stay in a HI hostel

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Experience the Icefields Parkway

Reconnect with your wild side T. 1.866.762.4122 Book direct at hihostels.ca/wildernesshostels

mountainmadnesstours.com

780.885.9813

Experience an Unforgettable Mountain Wedding

Near Blue River Guest Ranch, Cranbrook. Photos Courtesy of Kat Hadford Photography

There is no one-size fits all answer to planning the perfect mountain wedding. Flipping through bridal magazines, it’s not uncommon to find stunning images of couples in front of the Chateau Lake Louise or the iconic Banff Springs Hotel. As glamorous as these weddings are, they don’t necessarily reflect the diverse tastes of couples who choose to get married in any of Western Canada’s majestic mountain parks. In fact, there are hundreds of unique locations and venues that just don’t get near the amount of buzz they deserve, despite their potential to make some guests wish they could have a do-over of their wedding. In no particular order, here are 8 of our favourite venues that might appeal to wedding couples wanting to break the mould on their big day.

1. Goldeye Conference Centre, Nordegg, AB Just outside of the town of Nordegg, adventure and fun await the couples who choose Goldeye Convention Centre for their wedding. A summer-camp style centre complete with a ropes course, zipline, field house, kayaks and canoes, this unique venue offers an action-packed wedding weekend to be had by all. Lodgings range from basic dorm-style cabins to more traditional hotel-like rooms. A full-service kitchen serves up 3 meals a day for all who choose to stay. A woodsy amphitheatre nestled in the trees provides a shady seated area for a

ceremony, or couples can opt to hold the ceremony anywhere on the grounds, from lakeside to indoors. There are plenty of options for the reception as well, including a cozy log-cabin style dining hall. But in a location like this, who wants to stay indoors anyways? goldeye.org

2. Heather Mountain Lodge & Cabins, Glacier National Park, BC Picture tons of natural light streaming in through the many windows of a contemporary alpine lodge with a red tin roof, vaulted open-beam interior, and a 2-storey stone fireplace.

Bright and airy with a rustic elegance, it can accommodate a reception of up to 90 people. The resort is set just off Hwy 1 and provides a backcountry vibe without sacrificing all the creature comforts your city folk guests might come to expect (hello Wi-Fi, heated flooring and soaker tubs in the cabins!)

Locally-sourced cuisine is served up alongside an impressive list of BC wines and brews. heathermountainlodge.com

3. Hillside Lodge and Chalets, Glacier National Park, BC Just 13 km west of Golden, Hillside Lodge and Chalets offers a completely different aesthetic compared to its neighbours at Heather Mountain. While both have the panoramic vistas of the Rockies in the background, Hillside offers a timeless barn

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Experience an Unforgettable Mountain Wedding

Heli Wedding, Golden. Photo Courtesy of Kat Hadford Photography

venue for up to 120 guests for a more down-home country style reception. Charming log cabins with kitchenettes make it an ideal place to stay on a long weekend for those who want to keep the celebrations going. hillsidechalets.com

4. Mulvehill Creek Wilderness Inn & Wedding Chapel, Revelstoke, BC If you are debating between having a picturesque mountain wedding, or getting married in a traditional chapel, you can have both at Mulvehill Creek! Set on 33 acres on the shores of Arrowhead Lake, this unique venue is the perfect spot for an intimate wedding. If spectacular backdrops for photos are a must-have, you are seriously spoiled for choice here between an on-site 300-foot waterfall, lakeside on the beach, or deep in the forest. Comfortable guest accommodations are available including a honeymoon suite for the newlyweds. And after the wedding day, you can have some fun and relax in the inviting waters of the inn’s outdoor saltwater pool. mulvehillcreek.com

houses a kitchen, living space and sleeping area for up to 8 guests. With both catered and self-catered options and an onsite caretaker to ensure the smooth event, you can focus on enjoying the breathtaking ridge walks and alpine flowers that bloom all-season long. The lodge’s management maintains a flexible, open-minded attitude to try to accommodate specific requests for guests wishing to make this picturesque venue the background to their intimate wedding. dianalake.ca

6. Nipika Mountain Resort, Radium Hot Springs, BC Calling all tree-huggers! If you want to make an impression on your guests, and not on the environment, then this may be the perfect place for you to celebrate the start your eco-conscious life together. Completely off-grid, Nipika Mountain Resort runs entirely on solar energy, recycles everything possible and uses locally sourced deadwood for heating when attainable.

Up to 70 guests can stay in one of the stylish log cabins and the potential for finding an unforgettable ceremony location is boundless. Just 45 minutes east of Radium. nipika.com

5. Diana Lake Lodge & Teahouse, Radium Hot Springs, BC Just off the beaten path, in a protected alpine valley, lies a unique back-country venue for the more adventurous types.

Diana Lake Lodge is a simple but cozy spot perfect for a very small group or elopement wedding. A one-room log cabin

7. Bull River Guest Ranch, Cranbrook, BC For those seeking an authentic western experience, Bull River Guest Ranch has 200 acres of peace and tranquility awaiting them, only 40 minutes from Cranbrook. This venue offers

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Experience an Unforgettable Mountain Wedding

Hillside Lodge, Golden. Photos Courtesy of Kat Hadford Photography

sensational views of the Rockies, lovingly landscaped grounds and a self-catering longhouse big enough for up to 120 guests!

The cozy western-style quarters include 7 log cabins with full kitchen facilities, handmade patchwork quilts and romantic riverstone fireplaces. The ranch can arrange for a number of activities including horseback riding, rafting and fly fishing trips, and there is no shortage of hiking trails on the adjoining thousand acres of crown land. bullriverguestranch.com

8. Emerald Lake Lodge, Yoho National Park, BC Have you ever dreamt of having your own little island to escape from it all? You would be completely surrounded by pristine water on all sides, enjoy all the comforts of home and of course, you’d bring all your nearest and dearest people with

you to keep you company. Now imagine that this is actually possible for your wedding day when you rent the entire island at Emerald Lake Lodge. While this is only one viable option for hosting a wedding at Emerald Lake Lodge (less exclusive packages are also available) if you’re the kind of couple who takes the “go big or go home” approach to life, then why not shamelessly indulge in the luxuries that go with having your own private island complete with staff to cater to your every need (even if for a short while)? crmr.com/emerald There really is no wrong way to plan a mountain wedding as long as you plan it YOUR way. The possibilities are as vast as our beautiful Rocky Mountains.

by Johanna Silver

Photos Courtesy of Silverlight Studios

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Photo Courtesy Csaba Schopper

Share an image and a story of you and your spouse for a chance to win:

PADDLING ON LAKE REVELSTOKE

MOUNTAIN BIKING IN THE ALPINE

THE RAINFOREST IN MT. REVELSTOKE NATIONAL PARK

SHOPPING & DINING IN DOWNTOWN REVELSTOKE

THE LINKS AT THE REVELSTOKE GOLF COURSE

experience #TheRealStoke

thethan Sutton Place Hotel in a 2 bedroom suite Revelstoke, BC3-- nights’ so much at more just a stop on the highway.

tickets thetemperate Pipe Mountain Nestled in the 4 world’s onlyfor inland rainforest,Coaster this vibrant community lives and breathes a mountain lifestyle that you just can’t find anywhere else.

A place that is rich in history, arts, and culture. One that has an 4 tickets for the Revelation Gondola incredible food scene, and award-winning local beer to wash it down with. Where people are proud to live, and Tour for two happy to showRafting you around.

A place with boundless adventures, experiences, and places to explore.

Buffet breakfast for 4 at the Revelation Lodge And the best part?

NoGift crowds. $100 Card for the Rockford wok|bar|grill Come experience The Real Stoke for yourself.

www.SeeRevelstoke.com

ENTER AT: ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Contests Winner will be randomly select by CMI Publishing. Contest Closes October 15, 2018.

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Experience British Columbia

New Denver

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Courtenay

BC Fast Facts Capital City: Victoria Population: 4.64 million History: Entered Canadian Confederation in 1871 Total Area: 944,735km sq/364,764mi sq Highest Point: Fairweather Mountain, 4,663m/15,299ft

Lowest Point: Pacific Ocean, Sea Level Longest River: Fraser River, 1,368 km/850 mi Provincial Flower: Pacific Dogwood Provincial Tree: Western Redcedar Provincial Bird: Steller’s Jay Provincial Gemstone: Jade Provincial Motto: “Splendour Without Diminishment”

Discover northeastern BC’s dino finds! Pick up a free copy of Experience the Dinosaur Trails or download our mobile edition at ExperienceTravelGuides.com

FREE

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ts ntes e Co Selfi er & s Read Contest & Selfie Reader Contests Reader & Selfie

Experience Wells Gray Provincial Park Photo Credit: Alan Fortune Photography

Wells Gray PP contains 5,250 sq km of alpine wilderness, borne from volcanoes and carved by glaciers. It boasts one of the most unique landscapes in all of BC; where your days are measured in vertical feet, big game sightings and the number of waterfall shots on your camera.

Helmcken Falls is Canada’s 4th highest waterfall and just one of 39 named waterfalls you’ll find here. It’s where the Murtle and Clearwater Rivers roar into life each spring and wildlife sightings are as common as sunrise and sunset.

Murtle Lake is North America’s largest canoe-only lake. It’s here, through a kaleidoscope of colour where you can hike through the wildflower meadows of the Trophy Mountains.

You’ll find serenity among old-growth interior rainforests.

Select Valemount, Blue River or Clearwater as your staging ground for pure wilderness adventures. Tour by car, on foot, or from high in the saddle… in the Canada you imagined.

Located one hour west of Jasper on Hwy 16, drop by the Mount Robson Visitor Centre, or stop at the Info Centres in Valemount or in Clearwater. The friendly staff in each facility will ensure you get the most from your visit to this breath-taking area!

Clearwater Valley Resort & KOA Campground

For more information on Wells Gray visit wellsgray.ca

heated outdoor pool • laundromat treed, park like setting • wifi mini golf • playground 52 RIDGE RESTAURANT with breakfast & dinner specials MOTEL AND BUNGALOWS extra large rooms • family rooms queen & king beds • kitchenettes air conditioning KOA CAMPGROUND AND KAMPING KABINS 50 & 30 amp sites • firepits & tables pull thru sites

Call: 1.888.837.1161 or 250.674.3909 www.clearwatervalley.com 373 Clearwater Valley Road, Clearwater

41 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Photo Credit: Alan Fortune Photography

Our coverage of the mountain parks of British Columbia (BC) begins with the communities of Clearwater, Blue River, Valemount, and Wells Gray Provincial Park.

Wildfire in Kootenay National Park

Photo Courtesy of Parks Canada

Kootenay National Park is one of the best kept secrets in our national park system. From icy mountain rivers to steamy hot springs, you can enjoy it by taking a 60 min drive through the park, or by embarking on a multi-day adventure. Kootenay National Park is a park of contrasts and last year’s wildfire has significantly added to its multi-facetted landscape.

Fire: An important part of Kootenay National Park.

For thousands of years, wildfire has been an integral part of Canada’s landscape. In Kootenay National Park, it has played a key role in shaping which species of vegetation and wildlife thrive. In the early years of our national parks system, park managers – and our society – viewed fire as a destructive force and extinguished it. The first national park wardens (called Fire and Game Guardians) were hired in 1909 primarily to extinguish wildfires. More recently, the science of ecology is telling us something completely different; fire is an essential part of nature. Many ecosystems have evolved with fire and depend on it for renewal.

The benefits of fire We now know that over time, fires create a patchwork of burned and unburned vegetation. This diverse mix of habitats is favoured by some wildlife and supports many species. Fire makes nutrients stored in live and dead vegetation available by converting it into mineral-rich ash. After a fire, pine cones pop open from fire’s heat, releasing their seeds. In the spring, new growth will sprout from the roots of burned shrubs. Flowers will bloom and grasses will sprout. Animals will once again forage in the lush new growth.

Restoring the flame While we continue to suppress threatening wildfires, we now also work to reintroduce fire in a controlled manner, whether that’s through monitoring wildfires in remote areas or lighting prescribed fires. Our current fire management program has evolved from decades of experience fighting, lighting and researching the effects of fire on the landscape. Parks Canada is now a leader in fire management.

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Wildfire in Kootenay National Park The summer of 2017 Last summer, Canada 150 was celebrated across the mountain parks with much excitement. Mother Nature provided some added challenges when lightning struck in the remote backcountry drainage of Verdant Creek. Despite immediate and ongoing firefighting efforts, this fire grew to 18,017 hectares over the next two months. With a new summer season coming up, you may be wondering how this could affect your visit to Kootenay National Park.

Planning your next visit Following the great success of Canada 150, we are excited for the 2018 summer season. Most trail and campgrounds will be open. We are also now taking online reservations for backcountry campgrounds as of March 2018.

As for trails that may be closed due to the Verdant Creek wildfire, dangerous trees standing along some trails continue to be present and infrastructure such as bridges and signs will require rebuilding which means some limited backcountry areas remain closed in Kootenay and Banff national parks. If you are planning a visit to the park, we encourage you to visit: pc.gc.ca/apps/scond/index_e.asp

Looking for a day trip?

The Redstreak restoration area near the Town of Radium Hot Springs offers a walk through meadows reborn by prescribed fire. Visit the Redstreak Restoration interpretive trail for a chance to learn more about the benefits of fire on the landscape. Don’t forget to watch for bighorn sheep!

Photos Courtesy of Adrienne Halmos

Be sure to download the Kootenay App to let Parks Canada staff tell you stories behind the various landscapes in the area.

Relax in the Radium Hot Pools and walk the Juniper trail for fantastic views of the Columbia Valley.

For a multi-day trip Book a campsite to say in one of our oTENTiks at Redstreak Campground, plan a Burgess Shale Hike at Stanley Glacier and soak up the last of the rays from the Hot Pools. For more great ideas visit pc.gc.ca/kootenay

Photos Courtesy of Jochen Steinhage

43 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience the Kootenay Rockies To Jasper

93

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Lake Louise

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Highway 93 runs north from Wickenburg, Arizona, 2,768 kms to Jasper, Ab. American visitors cross into Canada at the Roosville Border Crossing which is open 24/7 year round. For much of the 330 km within BC, Hwy 93 follows the Columbia River Valley and passes through historic communities like Fort Steele, resorts such as Fairmont Hot Springs, and the quaint town of Radium Hot Springs, before veering northeast through Kootenay National Park. Unplug, slow down and drink in the charm of this section of your journey.

Brisco

Windermere Creek

95

Bed & Breakfast Cabins

Koo

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Radium Hot Springs

• 107 forested acres • Private secluded log cabins with kitchens and jacuzzis • Creekside hammocks and picnic areas, hours of trails • $109 - $159 +tax/couple includes breakfast

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Invermere

Panorama Windermere Windermere Lake 95 93

Fairmont Hot Springs

Columbia Lake

1-800-946-3942

www.WindermereCreek.com

18 km south of Kootenay National Park - Windermere, BC

Canal Flats

British Columbia

Alberta

Skookumchuck

95A

Kimberley

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Fort Steele To Sparwood and the Crowsnest Pass

Cranbrook 93

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Elko

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STAY, EXPERIENCE, EXPLORE

Creston 95

Eco-Resort • Luxurious log cabins Daily guided activities • Multi day Adventure camps Open Summer & Winter • Pet Friendly

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CANADA U.S.A.

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Eureka 93

To Coeur d’Alene

95

2

To Kalispel

MOUNTAIN RESORT

To Whitefish, Kalispel

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To Book Your Stay call 1-877-647-4525

www.nipika.com

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Dolly

3 km from Radium; Admission fee.

Hot pool is a relaxing 39 oC (102 oF).

Cool pool is a refreshing 29 oC (84 oF).

Lockers, swimsuit and towel rentals available. Visit hotsprings.ca for hours and fees.

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Kootenay National Park is on Mountain Time – 1 HR AHEAD of Pacific Time (and most of B.C.)

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Vermilion Pass, Fireweed Trail 95 km (1.2 hr) from Radium.

Elevation: 1640 m. The Continental Divide is the dividing line between the Pacific and Atlantic watersheds. A 15-min interpretive trail loops through a regenerating forest.

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85 km (1 hr) from Radium.

Cold, iron-rich mineral springs bubble up through small pools, staining the earth a deep ochre.

88 km (1 hr) from Radium.

Enjoy the sights and sounds of thundering glacial meltwater and the diverse vegetation resulting from the 2003 wild fire.

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63 km (45 min) from Radium.

Located at Vermilion Crossing.

Gift Shop, Cabins & Dining.

Lodge Open Mid-May to Mid-Sept.

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16 km (20 min) from Radium.

Stop here for exhibit & dramatic view of: The Kootenay River Valley, The Mitchell & Vermilion Ranges.

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1.5 km from Radium.

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Watch for bighorn sheep.

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13 km (15 min) from Radium.

Interpretive trail bordering a clear, shallow lake.

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Learn why grasslands and open forests are so important for wildlife.

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In the village of Radium Hot Springs.

Tourism Radium Information Desk OPEN YEAR ROUND 250-347-9331 Friends of Kootenay Gift Shop Parks Canada Info Desk 250-347-9505 Ktunaxa Nation culture & history exhibit.

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Experience the Flora in the Mountain Parks As you explore one of Canada’s most spectacular landscapes, you’ll often be staring toward immense ramparts. At other times, you’ll be squinting to spot some of an area’s amazing animals. Just remember to look down to appreciate some of the unique wild flowers that line the trails and roadsides.

The Crocus To many locals, the crocus is the official harbinger of spring. Its delicate pinkishpurple flowers announce the start of the wild-flower season.

Orchids As the spring gives way to summer, the calypso orchid or fairy slipper emerges from carpets of needles lying beneath towering forests of lodgepole pine.

An Amazing Diversity As you learn to recognize wildflowers, take note of where you encounter them.

Was the area in the open sun or more shaded? Were the plants protected from the elements or subjected to high winds?

Was the soil moist or dry? Learning to recognize the landscape within which the flowers live will help you anticipate which flowers to expect as you head out on future wildflower walks.

the tiny bloom of the blue violet and the creamy flowers of the yellow locoweed.

Try to find the star flowered Solomon’s seal, bunchberry, wild strawberry, bearberry, twinflower or a prickly rose.

Flowers of the High Country This season is short so the flowers need to bloom as soon as conditions allow. Watch for red and purple flowers, like the common red paintbrush, alpine forgetme-not, and the tiny moss campion.

Other high elevation flowers include the cow parsnip and the club like flower clusters of the bear grass.

This summer, get to know a few of the wild flowers. They’ll be your constant roadside and trailside companions as you roll your way through the mountains and unlike bears, they don’t run away as soon as you try to get a good look at them. But remember: look, don’t pick!

Seedhead, Wilcox Pass - Courtesy Terry Webb

Flowers of the Montane The valley bottom plays host to most of the early season wildflowers. Watch for

Galypso Orchid - Courtesy Joshua Angiola

Crocus - Courtesy Jerre Paquette

Blanket of Daisies - Courtesy Jeremy Klager

Red Paintbrush - Courtesy Lloyd Dykstra

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Meadow of Scarlet Paintbrush - Courtesy Terry Webb

Experience the Fauna in the Mountain Parks

Elk - Courtesy of Sheila McKeand

Dawn and dusk are your best bet for spotting animals in their natural setting.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that these are WILD animals.

The Many Members of the Deer Family Here you’ll find white-tail and mule deer, elk or wapiti, moose, and even caribou in the northern reaches.

Bears Both black and grizzly bears can be seen along highways as they feed on spring dandelions or summer buffaloberries.

You’ll likely see more animals while you’re driving. Mule and white-tailed deer, along with large populations of elk (or wapiti) line many of the highways.

They typically graze the grassy roadside shoulders and hillsides taking advantage of plentiful forage.

Black bears may be any colour, so colour itself is a poor indicator. Instead, look for a prominent shoulder hump and a slightly dished-in appearance to the face - a sure sign that you’re watching a grizzly.

Bighorn Sheep or Mountain Goats?

Bighorn sheep make appearances along the roadside, mountain goats do not. To help you identify them, remember that mountain goats are snow white. Male bighorn sheep get the large full-curl horns.

Females have small, goat-like horns.

Keep Them Wild; Keep Yourself Safe We all want to keep the animals safe and your visit memorable. Here are some tips for safely observing wildlife in the mountains: Stay in your vehicle when you see an animal. They are very large and equally fast. Be sure to stop your vehicle only if it is safe to do so. Blind corners and steep hills can obscure other drivers’ view of your vehicle. Do not feed or entice animals to move closer to you.

Animals that approach humans for handouts are likely to lash out defensively if they feel threatened. Help us keep the wild in wildlife.

Mountain Goats - Joey Olivieri

Bear - Courtesy Trevor Ward

Remember to keep your smart phone, camera and binoculars ready for action.

Spotting wildlife often happens suddenly with little warning and ends just as fast.

By Ward Cameron

Wolfs - Courtesy Francis Sandoval

Bears - Courtesy Leonard Heinonen

Coyotes - Courtesy Nicholas Taffs

47 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Big Horn Sheep - Courtesy Richard Collens

Experience Radium Hot Springs

Hike Golf Soak STAY

Village Country Inn

Far Out Gear Rentals

The Village Country Inn is a charming 2-storey Victorian style Inn that offers warm cozy rooms, perfect for a mountain getaway. Complimentary hot breakfast is included in your stay.

Biking, Paddling, Camping Gear Rentals, Self-Guided Tours Shuttle, Sales & More

VillageCountryInn.bc.ca | 1-250-347-9392

RentFarOut.com | 1-844-376-0632

Cobblestone Creek Cottage & Lodging Co.

Radium Hot Springs Pools

Specializing in; Boutique Vacation Home Rentals | Golf Packages | Whitewater Rafting Tours | Ski Packages | Snowmobile & ATV Tours

CobblestoneCreek.ca | 1-888-711-3722

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Relax and soak in the view of Sinclair Canyon or bring the kids for a fun day of swimming in the cool pool.

HotSprings.ca | 1-800-765-1611

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Experience Radium Hot Springs

Valley Visitor Services Radium Hot Springs Visitor Centre Open Year Round Winter Hours 9-5 Daily Summer Hours 9-7 Saturday - Thursday | 9-9 Friday’s Closed Christmas Day, Boxing Day & New Year’s Day

Music & Market on Main

Columbia Valley Chamber of Commerce Open Year Round Winter Hours 9-5 Monday - Saturday (September – June) Closed Sunday’s and Statuary Holidays Summer Hours 9-6 Daily

FRIDAYS

June 29 - Augu

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4pm-9pm

Downtown Invermere Kiosk Open Seasonally through July & August Wednesday – Sunday 9:30-5:30

Fairmont Hot Springs Kiosk

@TourismRadium

Open Seasonally July & August 10-6 Daily

@Tourism.Radium @Tourism_Radium RadiumHotSprings.com 1.888.347.9331

Columbia River Paddle

Kootenay National Park Glaciers, fossils, grasslands with incredible hiking trails, viewpoints and campgrounds in between. Book your guided hike to the Burgess Shale Fossils and see them for yourself! Reservations needed.

Located in Invermere, specializing in guided & self guided tours, rentals, instructions and sales, in canoeing, flat & whitewater kayaking, and stand-up paddle boarding.

ColumbiaRiverPaddle.com | 1-250-342-7397

ParksCanada.gc.ca/Kootenay | 1-250-347-9505

Old Salzburg Restaurant

PICCADILLY MOTEL

ThePiccadilly.ca | 1-888-288-7799

Austrian & Continental Cuisine | Schnitzel | Steak | Seafood | Daily Three Course Dinner MISTY RIVER LODGE BACKPACKER’S Specials | Homemade Pasta & Desserts.

MistyRiverLodge.ca | 1-855-347-9912

CRESCENT MOTEL

OldSalzburgRestaurant.com | 1-250-347-6553

CrescentMotel.ca | 1-888-295-8822

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RADIUM ELK PARK BED & BREAKFAST RadiumElkParkBnb.com | 1-250-347-9522

LAKE SHORE RESORT & CAMPGROUND

LakeshoreResortCampground.com | 1-250-342-6352

ADVENTURE PADDLE SCHOOL

ColumbiaRiverPaddle.com | 1-250-342-7397

Headbanging in Radium Hot Springs Photo Courtesy of Francis Sandoval

Photo Courtesy of James Anderson

Photo Courtesy of Richard Collens

Come late fall, the village of Radium Hot Springs, as it goes with many mountain towns, slows down considerably. Many of the summer soakers, hikers, bikers, golfers, and the like, have made their journey home. However, some Radium “residents” never leave. In fact, come late fall, they start “raising the roof” with a headbanging show that always draws a crowd.

Radium Hot Springs – a beautiful Kootenay Rockies village located 260 km west of Calgary in the Columbia Valley – is known for many things. Obviously, the gorgeous natural hot pools (the largest in Canada) immediately come to mind.

The exceptional golf – there are two spectacular courses in town - the hiking, the Columbia Valley Wetlands, the quaint motel-lined downtown “strip,” which boasts ice cream shops, candy stores, restaurants, mini-golf, and the like, are all staples on Radium Hot Spring’s “To Do ” list.

Throughout the year Radium also hosts a number of popular events including the unique Headbanger Festival. But it’s not quite what you’re thinking. There are no eardrum-busting heavy metal bands, mosh pits, or wild, all-night parties. No, the Headbanger Festival in Radium Hot Springs celebrates (in

a good, clean, family-friendly way!) the fall rutting season. And the bighorn sheep always put on quite a show.

“Watching the big rams engage in their head-butting rituals is an awesome experience,” says Kent Kebe, the Manager at Tourism Radium. “It’s one of the most impressive displays in the natural world you can see in Western Canada.”

The festival incorporates lots of chances to witness the headbutting first-hand. (This banging of heads occurs when two rams square off and smash horns in a thundering display of raw aggression and dominance. The winner then becomes the leader of the herd and earns the right to mate with the ewes.)

Parks Canada presentations, guest speakers, photography workshops, interpretive hikes, and family art projects are other highlights of the weekend; one that is all about celebrating the iconic wildlife in Radium and educating attendees on how wildlife and humans can better co-exist.

“Radium is one of the few places in North America where a herd of bighorn sheep lives and roams freely in a residential

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Headbanging in Radium Hot Springs area,” says Kebe. “So the educational piece surrounding how this is best managed, how humans, predators, and bighorn sheep interact, is a pivotal part of this weekend. There are unique challenges and many people from around the world are very interested in how we are managing this situation.”

Although the numbers of the Radium herd has gone down over the years (it’s now approximately 160 animals, down from 220 ten years ago), greater awareness and understanding of all the issues involved (such as harmful food sources, traffic hazards, and large predators like cougars entering the town) is making a difference. “Nature is connected. Together with Parks Canada, our goal is to ensure sustainability and long-term success for both humans and animals,” says Kebe.

Obviously, attendees of the weekend festival will also get a taste for what the charming town of Radium Hot Springs is all about. The soothing hot springs – located up the hill from town in Kootenay National Park – are iconic and should not be

missed. Interestingly, while soaking in the natural hot springs pools, you can glance up on the bordering mountainside and view wildlife, including bighorn sheep!

Ringed with snow-capped mountains, rushing rivers, hoodoos, dramatic canyons, and a beautiful network of trails, the outdoor recreational opportunities are endless. Right in the heart of town, for example, the Sinclair Canyon hiking trails offer a beautiful half-day of walking. (A hike, followed by a soak in the hot springs, capped off with ice cream is, in my opinion, a perfect day in Radium!)

Regardless of whether you’re in Radium Hot Springs for the fall Headbanger Festival, or for some camping and a few rounds of golf in the middle of summer, one thing is certain: you will be “wowed” by the gorgeous mountain scenery. And leave with a greater appreciation for the mountains and the natural world around you.

By: Andrew Penner

Edgewater, Golden Elk Park

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Invermere

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See legend on page 67

Discover Our Craft Beer At 3:00 pm – after pouncing down powder-coated slopes at the Kicking Horse Resort – my wife and I returned to Golden tired, happy, and very, very thirsty. Indeed, recreating in the Rockies will do that to you! On our wish list? A cozy, craft-beer taproom with friendly locals, delicious beer, and good vibes.

Serving up one of the best IPAs in the land, the newly-minted Whitetooth Brewery proved to be the perfect spot.

Like many of the pretty little mountain towns that sit snug in the valleys in British Columbia and Alberta, Golden’s local taproom is a hub of activity. People, growlers in hand, come and go throughout the day. Indeed, craft beer joints are a going concern. And they’re popping up everywhere.

Without a doubt, the craft beer “revolution” (depending on who you ask, that’s probably not putting it too strongly!) has found some strong footing in the mountainous regions of Western Canada. At least a couple of dozen micro-breweries have bought some space, installed the tanks, poured in the hops (and a few other important ingredients), and, shortly thereafter, opened up their taps to the masses. And thirsty mountain folk – and visiting prairie folk! - are gulping it down by the hectoliter.

All Photos Courtesy of Mt. Begbie Brewing

And this is for good reason. The beer is good. Often great!

Talented brewers are creating a wide assortment of delicious concoctions – pale ales, stouts, porters, sours, lagers, India Pale Ales, and numerous other styles – that cater to a wide-variety of tastes (because not everyone is a hophead, although I put myself firmly in that camp!).

So, regardless of where you are in the mountains, chances are good you’re in close proximity to a fantastic little taproom with a friendly face, or two, eager to pour you a perfect pint of a locally-brewed liquid “love.” Although I haven’t encountered a bad one (not even close!), here are six of my favourite craft breweries in the mountains. (These are in no particular order.

And sorry for the ones I didn’t mention, you are still loved!).

Arrowhead Brewing Company, Invermere – Sure, it’s a little edgy, roadhouse rough, they aren’t afraid to let their hair down and experiment with a host of different beer styles. Put it all together and, whether you’re a biker or a beach bum, the relaxed and rustic atmosphere of their taproom and their hard-hitting beer (I’m a fan of “Night Train,” their black IPA that’s definitely the full meal deal) is going to have you the moment you kick down the creaky door and step inside.

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Discover Our Craft Beer Fisher Peak Brewing Co, Cranbrook – It all goes down at The Heid Out, a downtown Cranbrook restaurant and brewhouse of the finest order. Featuring handmade food sourced from local farms and producers, you won’t find a better place in the Kootenays to eat scrumptious food paired with exceptional beer. Their Soggy Otter Brown Ale is a classic.

Whitetooth Brewing Co., Golden – Featuring tasty West Coast and Belgium-inspired beer that will satisfy the thirst of hardcore mountain adventurers (and Golden is full of them!), the small taproom at the Whitetooth Brewing Company is usually wall-to-wall with locals swapping stories and swilling suds. The easy-drinking Whitetooth Session Ale is the perfect starter.

Nelson Brewing Company, Nelson – Given its prominent arts and culture inclinations, the historic town of Nelson is on the leading edge of the creative craft beer movement. And Nelson Brewing Company, located in the ancient firehall just up the hill from Baker Street, is the major player. With an all-organic line-up of tasty brews – hopheads will love Paddywhack, a West Coast-style IPA with bite – and hipster-cool merchandise available in their taproom, a visit here will not disappoint.

Mt. Begbie Brewing Co. in Revelstoke won the Canadian Brewery of the Year award in Ottawa, amongst 1876 entries from 333 breweries across Canada. Their Kolsch also took top honours, which then went on to win the “Best Kolsch” at the World Brewing Awards. So we basically have the best kolsch in the world, right here in Revelstoke.

Grizzly Paw Pub & Brewing Company, Canmore – A fixture in downtown Canmore for nearly 20 years, the Grizzly Paw Pub & Brewing Company is definitely the place to be on Friday night. Or any other night. Or day. With quality food and homemade soda (for the drivers!), nobody needs to leave this place thirsty. My advice? Try a taster set and hone in on the brew that speaks your language the loudest.

Without a doubt, there are many other micro-breweries in the mountains that won’t steer you wrong. These cozy places have many things in common. Yes, good beer is the first thing! But they are also friendly, unpretentious places where everyone is welcomed. So, rest assured, wherever you are recreating, a thirst-quenching, locally-made pint is being poured near you.

And, as always, enjoy in moderation...and remember NEVER drink and drive!

By: Andrew Penner

53 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Year-Round Fun in Yoho National Park Things to do in Spring and Summer Photo by Deschênes Steve

Visit a National Historic Site Parks Canada operates more than just National Parks. Take the whole family to one of our National Historic Sites for a fun way to learn about Canada’s rich heritage. The Twin Falls Tea House is operated seasonally as a private lodge.

The Canadian Pacific Railway started building this chalet in 1908 and it was designated as a national historic site in 1992. Twin Falls is a charming example of early rustic, log-framed design and a vivid reminder of the early days of trail riding, hiking, and mountaineering.

Spiral Tunnels When BC joined Confederation in 1871, it was on the condition that Prime Minister John A. Macdonald would build a railway to link the province to the rest of the country. The problem?

The steep grades in the mountains. The solution? Spiral tunnels blasted through the mountains to reduce the grade. The tunnels remain an amazing engineering feat to this day. Part of the Kicking Horse Pass National Historic Site, the Spiral Tunnels are an easy place to stop and close to the village of Field.

Things to do in Winter

Photo by Barbara Budenz

Photo by Trevor Ward

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing Emerald Lake is a great winter wonderland destination. With its Nordic trails and expansive views, this is truly a Canadian adventure! Skis and snowshoes can be rented at Emerald Sports & Gifts, which is located right beside the lake.

Yoho is home to some spectacular ice climbing routes near the village of Field.

It’s the perfect winter experience for skilled climbers and adventurous souls.

Hike the classics!

The Iceline Trail is arguably the most iconic trail in the park. It offers miles of glaciers and stunning mountain views!

This is a strenuous full-day hike.

For a shorter adventure, Takakkaw Falls is a thundering waterfall within a short walk from your car. At 302 meters, it’s one of the highest, easy-to-access waterfalls in Canada. Insider tip: there’s also a rock climbing route that goes up beside the waterfall. Try to spot the climbers!

Autumn

Photo by Mari Omori

Stroll Through the Village of Field Under a sea of blazing aspens and snow-dusted peaks, Field is a gem in the fall. Discover its historical houses, walk its garden-lined streets, and shop or eat in the local cafes. Local secret: fall is simply the best time to visit Yoho!

Check the trail report at www.pc.gc.cq/yoho and road conditions on www.drivebc.ca In the winter, be sure to check avalanche conditions before heading out into the backcountry (www.pc.gc.ca/avalanche).

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Experience Yoho National Park

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Ri ve

Left-hand turns on the TransCanada Highway are permitted at signed intersections only.

Ogden

Field

3

ld

e ng

d

Sherbrooke Lake

8

6

4 km (5 min) west of Field. A natural rock bridge arches over Kicking Horse River.

8 Walcott Quarry Burgess Shale Hike

EMERALD LAKE

era

r

idg

ve

rR Ra

in e up Hunter

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Pa ho Yo Wapta

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To JASPER NATIONAL PARK

4

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EMERALD GLACIER

ton Hamil lls Fa

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Hamilton Lake

Va n

WAPUTIK ICEFIELD Laughing Falls LY DA CIER A Niles GL 4 Takakkaw Falls

o Yoh

Carnarvon

ek

4 Takakkaw Falls

22 km (30 min) west of Field.

In the Nakoda language of the Stoney Nation, Wapta means “running water” or “river”. Trail head is 2 km drive down dirt road, off of the Trans-Canada Highway.

90-minute round trip hike to see these impressive falls.

VI

IER

e Littl

The President

Am

Balfour

d al er n Em asi B

Cre

17 km (25 min) from Field.

In the Cree language, Takakkaw means “magnificent.” One of the highest waterfalls in Canada. Walk to the base of the falls, or start a magnificent day-hike or backpacking trip on one of the nearby trails.

5 Emerald Lake

AC

Ki

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a

kP

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10 5

DI

GL

Amiskwi

Yoho Peak

Isolated Peak s s

5

Balfour Pass

Twin Falls

McArthur

8 km (5 min) east of Field. Engineering marvel constructed in 1909 for rail safety.

Interpretive exhibits. Closed in winter.

11 km (15 min) from Field.

A jewel of the Canadian Rockies. A 2 hour trail circles the lake. Sweet in the summer and incredible on snowshoes in the winter.

Public parking available. Open year-round.

Kilometres0 Miles 0

A

HO DEGLA S P CIE OI R LU S

O

3 Spiral Tunnels Viewpoint and Kicking Horse Pass National Historic Site

RE

YO

1 Yoho Visitor Centre at Field, BC

Just off the Trans-Canada Highway.

Parks Canada and Travel Alberta Info Desk will be open 7 days a week until Dec. 31, 2018. Phone: 250-343-6783.

Friends of Yoho National Park Gift Shop Burgess Shale fossil displays.

2 The Village of Field

EG

T

Yoho National Park

27 km (30 min) west of Lake Louise, Alberta - most services. Quaint mountain town with numerous Guesthouses and Bed & Breakfast Accommodation.

TH

WAPTA ICEFIELD

17 km from Field; Fee for the guided hike.

For more info on Burgess Shale see pg 45

Ri

ve

Burgess Shale Guided Hike to Mount Stephen

Starts in the Village of Field; Fees apply.

250-343-6393 www.friendsofyoho.ca

Yoho National Park is on Mountain Time – 1 HR AHEAD of Pacific Time (and most of B.C.)

55 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

r

See Campground Directory on pg 67 See legend on page 67

Experience Lake O’Hara

“In all the mountain wilderness the most complete picture of natural beauty is realized at O’Hara Lake.”

- Walter Dwight Wilcox

To many, Lake O’Hara is THE jewel of the Canadian Rockies.

Surrounded by spectacular alpine summits, this emerald green gem is a delight, shimmering in the brilliant light of the summer sun or covered by soft powder in winter. Some feel that Lake O’Hara is at its finest in autumn when the golden larches blaze against the blue sky and snow-covered peaks.

In 1908 in the Canadian Alpine Journal, R. L. Glisan wrote, “Not a trace of human presence or any disturbing element, the whole scene was the personification of a majestic peace.”

Although not quite as pristine as it once was, Lake O’Hara’s unspoiled beauty has been well maintained by Parks Canada.

Unlike many other renowned destinations in the Canadian Rockies, Lake O’Hara is never crowded. In the mid 1970s a master plan was created whereby only about 250 visitors are allowed in the valley per day: 30 tents at the campground (number of people per site will vary), 24 visitors each at the Alpine Club of Canada’s Elizabeth Parker Hut and Abbot

Pass Hut, 60 visitors at Lake O’Hara Lodge, and 42 day users.

This means you will never be crowded while exploring the trails - the area is large enough to absorb the visitors and leave lots of space for solitude.

In the wintertime Lake O’Hara is a popular ski destination.

Many people just ski up the snow-covered road for a day trip, but others overnight at the Elizabeth Parker Hut. And if you crave a little luxury, try a night at the Lake O’Hara Lodge, sitting around the fire with a glass of wine and good company.

Located in Yoho National Park, Lake O’Hara is on the BC side of the Continental Divide. The starting point for your trip to O’Hara is a parking lot just off the Trans-Canada Highway near Kicking Horse Pass, about equidistant from Lake Louise and Field. Here you catch the bus to the lake. Reservations can be hard to get so book early.

By: Chic Scott

Approaching the Elizabeth Parker Hut near Lake O’Hara. Photo by Chic Scott

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Experience Golden

These days, our addiction to devices, and growing obsession with spontaneity and travelling like a local means that we leave planning a vacation to the last minute, often whilst we are on the road. We are sure that we’ll meet that local who knows everything and has the time to tell us about it, but the reality is that the most famous towns in the Canadian Rockies are so full of tourists and seasonal workers that finding a true local is almost as challenging as discovering a four-leaf clover. But, with a little bit of planning, and being fore-armed on where to find the best information whilst you’re on the road, you too can ensure you get a truly authentic and unique experience in the mountains. Here’s what I wish I knew when I first visited the mountain parks in the Canadian Rockies:

same wonderful rewards but without the crowds. The tripplanning tool helps you create your own customised itinerary that can be saved, printed, and shared via email.

3. Travel in the shoulder season; May, June, September, and October are all great months to visit the Rockies when snow is on the peaks, temperatures are cooler, and crowds diminish.

4. Book your accommodation early, especially if travelling in the high season (July and August). I recommend staying in a bed and breakfast; they’re owned by people who live in Golden because they love it, and you’ll have plenty of opportunity to get their hints, tips, and stories first-hand throughout your visit.

1. Make Golden your base; Golden is a small unassuming 5. One of the first things to do on arrival is drop into the new mountain town sitting at the confluence of two historic rivers, surrounded by the majestic beauty and outdoor opportunities of the Rockies and Purcell mountain ranges, and an easy drive from Banff Lake Louise, Yoho, Glacier, Mt. Revelstoke, and Kootenay National Parks, as well as the Icefields Parkway. Yes, it is busier in July and August, but the locals are truly local; families who have lived there for generations, and who love talking about their town, mountains, and outdoor experiences.

2. Use the Tourism Golden website. Their unique Experience Finder will help you discover activities according to your preferences, season, and travel party type. They are experts in the place that they live, work, and recreate, and the suggested itineraries include both the ‘must-dos’ of the Rockies such as Lake Louise and Banff, along with hidden gems that offer the

Golden Visitor Centre. The counsellors are all from Golden, and can give their inside tips on additional activities, places of interest, where to eat, shop and lots more. Your customised itinerary can be emailed directly to your mobile device for use during your stay. Parks Canada passes are available to purchase.

6. Keep an eye out in the downtown area and at local events for the roving Golden ambassadors and eye-catching pop up information tent. They’re ready to answer your questions right when you need them to!

7. Connect to the best local information by downloading the Tourism Golden web app to your mobile device. There are four Wi-Fi hotspots in the downtown area, so no need to burn through your own data.

Visit tourismgolden.com/EMP for inspiration and information.

57 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience Golden

At the heart of it.

Jasper National Park

ALBERTA

BRITISH COLUMBIA

Photo by Sabrina Hunter

Glacier National Park

GOLDEN

Banff National Park

Yoho National Park

Mt. Revelstoke National Park

Kootenay National Park Bugaboo Provincial Park

lovethenationalparks.com tourismgolden.com A heart of gold.

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Experience Golden

At the heart of your Parks adventure.

Golden B.C. is surrounded by six of Canada’s most stunning national parks; Yoho, Glacier, Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Mount Revelstoke. This unique location makes Golden the ideal place from which to experience the spectacular scenery, iconic hiking trails, waterfalls, lakes and heritage sites of the national parks.

Golden is a hidden gem; a real town with real people, and perfect for avoiding the crowds.

Sitting at the confluence of two historic rivers, and surrounded by majestic peaks. Golden offers a variety of outdoor activities and adventures.

Start planning your Golden adventure at www.tourismgolden.com/emp Golden Visitor Centre Ask our friendly, knowledgeable Information Counsellors about activities, attractions, dining, and accommodations in Golden. Free travel guides, local maps, and other amenities, including free wifi are also available. Open daily May to September.

Seek and you will find.

Visitor Centre

Wifi Hotspots

Local Maps

Trip Planning

tourismgolden.com/visitors

#GOLDENRULES #GOLDENBC

Mountain View Cabins Clean, comfortable, cozy, rustic cabins from $69 off season. All cabins are heated with 2 queen beds and a 3 piece washroom.

“Bunkies” from $40.

1-250-340-8484 www.mountainviewcabinsbc.com

Golden Municipal Campground 73 Sites with Firepits, Sani-dump, Store, Coin Laundry-Showers. Free Wi-Fi. Tent & RV P/W walking distance to Downtown, across from Municipal Pool, along the River.

1-250-344-5412 www.goldenmunicipalcampground.com

59 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Digital Kiosks

Sani Dump

250-439-7290

1000 TRANS CANADA HIGHWAY

Mistaya Lodge Helicopter access only! Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies between Banff and Yoho National Parks. Guests enjoy adventures including hiking, swimming, nature watching, photography & relaxation!

1-866-647-8292 www.mistayalodge.com

Hydra River Guides Big Waves. Rushing Rapids. Wicked Whitewater. Experience the Kicking Horse River with trips starting from $75!

1-800-644-8888 www.hydrarafting.com

Experience Glacier National Park High on Adventure Glacier National Park is the birthplace of mountaineering

railway to railway engineering and road building feats to the

in North America with the first recreational technical climbs

modern avalanche mitigation measures of today, the route

recorded in 1888. While adventure seekers can still get their

through the pass brings Canada together as a nation. Explore

adrenalin going with technical mountaineering and glacier

Rogers Pass by car through snow sheds and steep avalanche

travel, today’s network of trails caters to all abilities ranging

terrain, stop in at the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre to learn

from short, level strolls to ambitious climbs. Be inspired by

more about the triumphs and tragedies of travel through this

dramatic mountain views, humbled by giant ancient trees or

treacherous pass, and take a stroll along abandoned rail beds.

captivated by the secrets of the abandoned railway over Rogers Pass. This summer, visit the Beaver Valley to view the mosaic

Winter Wonderland

of burned and unburned forest left after last year’s Prairie Hills

Glacier National Park is legendary for its snowfall, attracting

wildfire. Look for new vegetation and wildflowers sprouting up

ski-touring enthusiasts from around the world with an array

among remnant stands of old growth forest. Be safe, please use

of glades, alpine bowls, and icefields. All ski destinations in

caution near burned areas as remaining trees can be unstable.

the park require knowledge of travel in avalanche terrain. If you plan to tour in Glacier, be aware that many areas of the

Major Rogers Route

park have restricted and prohibited access in winter — please

Travel through time in Rogers Pass National Historic Site and

visit parkscanada.gc.ca/skirogerspass before you go. Skiers are

discover human courage and ingenuity. From the early trail

urged to wear avalanche transceivers, carry a shovel and probe,

blazing for the final link in Canada’s first trans-continental

and be prepared for self-rescue.

Abbott Ridge Trail, Photo Courtesy of Mari Omori

Glacier National Park, Photo Courtesy of Trevor Ward

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Experience Glacier and Mount Revelstoke National Parks Kilometres 0

Miles

Special Feature

10

0

5

10

EASTERN WELCOME STATION

Meadows in the Sky Parkway and Day Area

9

Begins 1.5 km east of Revelstoke. The only place in a Canadian National Park where you can drive to the top of a mountain.

This road switch-backs 26 km up Mount Revelstoke to flower filled meadows. A free shuttle service takes you the last few kms in the summer months. Ten trail heads at the summit including the Koo Koo Sint Trail that details David Thompson’s travels in the area. The heritage of three First Nations peoples - the Secwepemc, Ktunaxa, and Okanagan is highlighted in the First Footsteps Trail. Anticipating large crowds this summer.

1

Hermit

2

3

23

ILLECILLEWAET NÉVÉ Youngs

H WA Y IG

AH AD AN - C

iver WELCOME et R wa STATION lle WESTERN

2

1

Sir Donald

iver

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Jupiter

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GLACIER NATIONAL PARK

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4

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MOUNT REVELSTOKE NATIONAL PARK CLACHNACUDAINN

augh Conn

7

1

Revelstoke

i ec Ill

2 Nels Nelsen Historic Ski Jump

Exhibit celebrates international ski jumping (1915-71). Hike from the Railway Museum or the Nels Nelsen Historic Area on Meadows in the Sky Parkway. Exhibit opening July 2017

3 Giant Cedars Boardwalk

Approx 30 min east of Revelstoke. An excellent stop for a walk and picnic, it can also accomodate larger vehicles and provides a 20 min interpretive walk through rare old growth forest (700 year old trees)

4 Hemlock Grove Trail

Ck

tain ers

Sifton

Bonney

23

zzly Gri

pp Co

ek

8

54 km (40 min) east of Revelstoke. Explore the rain forest. A 10 minute interpretive boardwalk winds through ancient Western Hemlocks.

See Campground Directory on pg 66 See legend on page 67

5 Loop Brook Trail

63 km (45 min) east of Revelstoke. This 30 minute interpretive loop winds you through historic pillars which once held up a railway engineering feat.

6 Illecillewaet/Asulkan Valleys

66 km (50 min) east of Revelstoke. Several hikes begin at this trailhead. Explore trails and mountaineering routes established more than a century ago.

7 Rogers Pass Discovery Centre

Summit of Rogers Pass: 76 km (55 min) west of Golden. 72 km (52 min) east of Revelstoke; 250-837-7500 Parks Canada Info Desk, Regular Summer hours: 8:00am - 7:00pm daily.

Theatre & exhibits: history, wildlife & avalanches

61 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Mount Revelstoke and Glacier national parks are on Pacific Time – 1 hour BEHIND Mountain Time.

8 Bear Creek Falls Trail

Approx 1 hr east of Revelstoke.

A short hike (1 hour round trip) to a waterfall. The Connaught Creek waters cascade over the falls to join the Beaver River a short distance downstream.

Bathroom available in the parking area.

Beaver Valley Day-Use Area

85 km (65 min) east of Revelstoke.

The Beaver Valley is a place of fragile beauty with dynamic mountainsides, shaped by mudflows and landslides. In the warmest part of Glacier, this day-use area is one of the park’s first and last snow-free facilities every season.

Experience Mount Revelstoke National Park Whether looking for adventure, a scenic drive, a nice picnic spot or fun for the kids, Mount Revelstoke National Park offers something for everyone. Just minutes from downtown Revelstoke, the park is accessed by trail or road, and great photo ops await around every turn.

Nels Nelsen Ski Jump Picture yourself in front of a crowd of spectators as you prepare to launch into the air from the top of the Mount Revelstoke ski jump. Stand in “Nels’ Knickers,” a sculpted pair of ski jumping pants and skis modelled after those worn by multiple world record-holder Nels Nelsen. Lean out over the precipitous drop and imagine the pounding heart and the stomach butterflies competitors felt before each jump. Ski jumping at Mount Revelstoke has recently been recognized as an event of national historic significance.

Nels Nelsen Ski Jump, Courtesy Parks Canada

Beaver Lodge Kids’ Bike Park & Mountain Bike Trails The new Beaver Lodge Bike Park invites kids of all ages to test their bike skills while learning about plants and animals found within Mount Revelstoke National Park. Cycle through a series of fun features and look for tracks, scat and colourful critters. Once your skills have been honed in the bike park, and action shots captured, venture onto the nearby 10 km network of intermediate mountain bike trails that weave along the base of Mount Revelstoke.

Beaver Lodge Kids’ Bike Park, Courtesy Parks Canada

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Experience Mount Revelstoke National Park Meadows in the Sky Parkway The Meadows in the Sky Parkway in Mount Revelstoke National Park brings a towering mountain peak within reach of experienced and casual hikers alike. Climbing 1600 metres over 26 km, this scenic drive takes you past several jaw dropping viewpoints to beautiful subalpine meadows at the summit of Mount Revelstoke.

In late July and August, wildflowers blanket the vast meadows; perfect to frame your selfies or mountain photos with a splash of colour.

See pg 38 for details and prizes

Hike, hike, hooray!

Take the day to explore from subalpine meadow to alpine lakes and tundra along the Eva and Jade Lakes trails; spend an hour wandering through the rainforest in Inspiration Woods; or stretch your legs among the titans on the Giant Cedars boardwalk. No matter how long you have, don’t just picture yourself in Mount Revelstoke National Park - immerse yourself!

PADDLING ON LAKE REVELSTOKE

MOUNTAIN BIKING IN THE ALPINE

Photo Courtesy Csaba Schopper

THE RAINFOREST IN MT. REVELSTOKE NATIONAL PARK

SHOPPING & DINING IN DOWNTOWN REVELSTOKE

THE LINKS AT THE REVELSTOKE GOLF COURSE

experience #TheRealStoke Revelstoke, BC -- so much more than just a stop on the highway.

Nestled in the world’s only inland temperate rainforest, this vibrant community lives and breathes a mountain lifestyle that you just can’t find anywhere else. A place that is rich in history, arts, and culture. One that has an incredible food scene, and award-winning local beer to wash it down with. Where people are proud to live, and happy to show you around. A place with boundless adventures, experiences, and places to explore.

And the best part? No crowds.

Come experience The Real Stoke for yourself.

www.SeeRevelstoke.com

63 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

Experience the West Kootenays The traditional route east from Revelstoke is along the Trans Canada Hwy 1 to Golden (pg 57). To take a path less travelled, follow the scenic Hwy 23 south towards Nelson and the free ferry across Upper Arrow Lake. This waterway is part of the Columbia River System, so if you like water this may be perfect.

The road forks as you depart Galena Bay. Hwy 23 heads south to the luxury of Halcyon Hot Springs.

Open year-round, here you can soak your worries away while soaking up the incredible view of the Arrow Lakes and Monashee Mountains. With its quaint village-like atmosphere, Halcyon’s welcoming philosophy is that healing waters should be shared with the world. A great spot even on a hot summer’s day when you can utilize the mineral swimming pool on the lower deck or even take a dip in the lake. halcyon-hotsprings. com 30 minutes south, and flanked by the Selkirk and Monashee mountain ranges, Nakusp is another great place for rejuvenating body and mind, soaking in hot

springs, relaxing at a spa, lounging on the beach, or hiking among the cedars.

Alternatively, scenic Hwy 31 from Galena Bay runs southeast following the shores of Kootenay and Trout Lakes, to Balfour. A stroll down Front Street in Kaslo will bring you to the majestic SS Moyie, one of the last great sternwheelers that operated on Kootenay Lake. As enchanting music wafts over the water, the Kaslo Jazz Etc Summer Music Festival offers family fun Aug 3-5, 2018. REUTERS calls it one of “the Top 10 places to enjoy outdoor summer music.”

Continuing on, you’ll need to decide if you want to head southwest to Nelson or southeast to Creston.

Nelson is notorious for its charm while the first leg of your journey to Creston begins at Balfour, on the world’s longest (35 min) FREE ferry ride which ends near the artisan’s enclave of Crawford Bay. Experience the laid back charm of West Kootenays.

You will leave with a lifetime of memories!

Relax and Unwind!

Radium Hot Springs

Halcyon Hot Springs

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1.888.689.4699 64 | Enter Our Photo & Selfie Contests

HALCYON-HOTSPRINGS.COM

Share your Mountain Experience to Win

Photo Courtesy of Claude Robidoux

Photo Courtesy of Moe Haimour

Photo Courtesy of James Anderson

Photo Courtesy of Tony LePrieur

Prizes Include

1Sunshine Getaway Valued at $1500 2 2-Night Stoney Nakoda Resort For Prize info and to enter both contests visit: ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Contests Contest Closes February 17, 2019. Full details on above website.

ss Ac ce Fir

1

Castle Mountain

May 31 - Sept 17

$21.50

43

•

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca

2

Johnston Canyon*

May 24 - Sept 24

$27.40

132

•

•

•

•

•

•

877-737-3783

pc.gc.ca

3

Lake Louise Tent*

May 30 - Sept 27

$27.40

206

•

•

•

•

•

•

877-737-3783

reservation.pc.gc.ca

4

Lake Louise Trailer* Year Round $32.30 Soft-Sided camping in winter only (mid-November to mid-April)

189

•

•

•

•

•

877-737-3783

reservation.pc.gc.ca

5

Mosquito Creek

6

Protection Mountain

7

Rampart Creek

8

Tunnel Mt. Village I*

9

Tunnel Mt. Village II*

Campground

Open Dates

Fees

Flu

Dis

e pi ts

um p

San iD

a bl ed

Pr o gra m sh T oil ets Sho we rs

rp Int e

#o f Si t es

Campground Directory

Phone Number

Websites

Banff National Park - Map on pg 18

June 1 - Oct 8

$17.60

32

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca

June 22 - Sept 3

$21.50

72

•

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca

June 1 - Oct 8

$17.60

50

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca

May 10 - Oct 30

$27.40

618

•

•

•

•

•

•

877-737-3783

reservation.pc.gc.ca

Year Round

$27.40 - $32.30

188

•

•

•

•

•

•

877-737-3783

reservation.pc.gc.ca

10 Tunnel Mt. Trailer*

May 10 - Oct 1

$38.20

321

•

•

•

•

•

877-737-3783

reservation.pc.gc.ca

11 Two Jack Main*

June 21 - Sept 3

$21.50

380

•

•

•

877-737-3783

pc.gc.ca

12 Two Jack Lakeside*

May 10 - Oct 1

$27.40

64

•

•

•

•

•

877-737-3783

pc.gc.ca

13 Waterfowl Lakes

June 22 - Sept 3

$21.50

116

•

•

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca

$21.50

61

•

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/knp-camping

Kootenay National Park - Map on pg 45 1

Marble Canyon

June 21 - Sept 4

2

McLeod Meadows

June 14 - Sept 17

$21.50

3

Redstreak*

May 3 - Oct 10

$27.40 - $38.20

80

•

•

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/knp-camping

242

•

•

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877-737-3783

pc.gc.ca/knp-camping

33

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/jaspercamping

•

•

Jasper National Park - Map on pg 28 1

Icefield Tent

May 16 - Oct 8

$15.70

2

Honeymoon Lake

May 16 - Sept 17

$15.70

35

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/jaspercamping

3

Icefield Centre RV

Apr 11 - Oct 28

$15.70

100

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/jaspercamping

4

Jonas

May 16 - Sept 3

$15.70

25

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/jaspercamping

5

Kerkeslin

June 13 - Sept 3

$15.70

42

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/jaspercamping

6

Pocahontas*

May 16 - Sept 3

$21.50

140

•

•

888-737-3783

reservation.pc.gc.ca

7

Snaring River

May 16 - Sept 24

$15.70

66

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/jaspercamping

8

Wabasso*

May 16 - Sept 17

$21.50 - $27.40

231

•

•

•

•

877-737-3783

reservation.pc.gc.ca

9

Wapiti (Summer)*

May 2 - Oct 8

$27.40 - $32.30

364

•

•

•

•

•

877-737-3783

reservation.pc.gc.ca

10 Wapiti Winter

Oct 8 - May 1

$27.40 - $32.30

93

•

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/jaspercamping

11 Whistlers*

May 2 - Oct 8

$27.40 - $38.20

781

•

•

•

•

877-737-3783

reservation.pc.gc.ca

May 16 - Sept 17

$15.70

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/jaspercamping

12 Wilcox

•

•

46

•

Glacier and Mount Revelstoke National Parks - Map on pg 61 1

Illecillewaet

June - Sept

$21.50

60

•

•

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca

2

Loop Brook

July - Sept

$21.50

20

•

•

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca

3

Mount Sir Donald

July - Aug

$21.50

15 888-773-8888 pc.gc.ca

All Open Dates are weather dependant.

For more campground information pick up or downlaod our sister publications at ExperienceTravelGuides.com/Library

All fees are subject to change without notice.

A fire permit is required for fires in Parks Canada’s campgrounds.

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* These Campgrounds accept reservations.

rp

Pr o gra m sh T oil ets Sho we rs San iD um p Dis a bl ed Ac c es Fir s e pi ts

Fees

Flu

Open Dates

Int e

Campground

#o f Si t es

Campground Directory

Phone Number

Websites

Yoho National Park - Map on pg 55 1 Hoodoo Creek

June 21 - Sept 3

$15.70

30

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/ynp-camping

2 Kicking Horse

Closed for 2018

$27.40

8

•

•

•

•

888-773-888

pc.gc.ca/ynp-camping

3 Monarch

May 3 - Sept 3

$17.60

44

•

•

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/ynp-camping

4 Takakkaw Falls

June 21 - Oct 8

$17.60

35

888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca/ynp-camping

Waterton Lakes National Park - Map on pg 15 1 Waterton Townsite*

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Please call 1-877-737-3783 for Campground information. Closures are in place due to the Kenow Wildfires

Apr 14 - Oct 9

$22.50 - $38.20

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2 Crandell Mountain

Closed for 2018

$21.50

129

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3 Belly River

May 12 - Sept 25

$15.70

24

May 1 - Oct 1

$30.00 - $50.00

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4 Waterton Springs

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877-737-3783

pc.gc.ca

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888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca

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888-773-8888

pc.gc.ca

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403-859-2247

watertonspringscamping.com

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Caroline, Alberta Clearwater Trading Year Round $25.00 - $35.00 47 • • • • 403-722-2378 clearwatertrading.ca Proud to offer you a separate, private venue for all your events’ needs. Call us today! Check us out on Facebook @clearwatertradingevents

Crowsnest, Alberta Lost Lemon Campground

Year Round

$30.00 - $46.00

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403-562-2932

lostlemon.com

Kimberley, British Columbia Kimberley Riverside Apr - Oct $26.00 - $47.00 140 • • • • • 250-427-2929 Scenic Riverside Setting, Fully Serviced Sites, Free Swimming Pool, Free Wifi Hotspots, 18-Hole Putting Course, Laundromat, Convenience Store, Playground, Big Rig/Pet Friendly, Reservations Encouraged.

kimberleycampground.com

Valemont, British Columbia iRVin’s Park & Campground Apr 1 - Oct 31 $27.00 - $40.00 96 Full Service Sites, 30 or 50 amp, Big Rig Friendly, Laundry Facilities, Dog Walk

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250-566-4781

irvinsrvpark.com

800-227-9311

kootenaylakeview.com

West Kootenays, British Columbia The Lakeview

May 1 - Oct 31

$25.00 - $35.00

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Mirror Lake Campground Apr 15 - Oct 15 $24.00 - $28.00 96 • • • • 250-353-7102 mirrorlakecampground.com Lakefront rental cabins and trailers, $55-$79 based on double occupancy. Beach with playground, rental boats and bass fishing. Dog walk.

Three Island Resort

May 1 - Sept 30

$22.00 - $32.00

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250-265-3023

Grab your WOODSTM gear and get the most out of your adventure.

67 | ExperienceTravelGuides.com

threeislandsresort.ca

BOOK YOUR TOUR Visit our retail locations, by phone (780) 931-3275, or online for immediate confirmation at JasperPlanetarium.com In Partnership With:

SunDog Retail Office (8 am - 9 pm) 414 Connaught

Jasper Adventure Centre (8 am - 9 pm) 611 Patricia St

Marmot Lodge Front Desk (until 6 pm) 86 Connaught Dr

Planetarium Retail Desk (after 6 pm) 86 Connaught Dr