Banff National Park – Canada
Three railway workers stumbled upon a hot spring whilst constructing the great Canadian Pacific Railway in 1883. The undisputed beauty of the location led to the Canadian Prime Minister setting out a plan to ensure the safety and protection of the area, and thus Banff National Park was born. Canada’s first National Park is a non-stop delight of unbelievable sights. In the heart of the mighty Rocky Mountains, the park provides the ultimate in trekking, hiking and climbing prospects, with numerous glaciers and snowy peaks throughout. These stand tall over some of the world’s most strikingly beautiful lakes, in particular Lake Louise, whose sheet-like water extraordinarily mirrors the mountainous terrain. The Coniferous forests home some of Canada’s most iconic and incredible wildlife, such as Grizzly and Black bears, Elk and Deer. Banff is the most visited National Park in Canada, and as such has a blossoming tourist sector. These offer innumerable escapades, especially for the more adventurous traveller. White-water rafting, mountain climbing, skiing and all manner of guided tours are the best way to experience the very best of Banff’s undoubted beauty.
Where is it?
The park is situated in the south of the Canadian state of Alberta, in the west of Canada. Deep in the Rocky Mountains, its nearest city is Calgary, while the town of Banff itself is the highest in Canada, approximately 4,500 feet above sea level.
What is it?
The National Park forms part of UNESCO’s Canadian Rocky Mountain World Heritage site, and is filled with incredible mountains, stunning lakes and dense, beautiful forests. One of Canada’s prime spots for snow sports, hiking and mountain climbing.
Best time to visit?
Banff’s incredible scenery never fails to impress but winter is best avoided unless snowy endeavours are wanted, as temperatures often dip to a chilly -15 degrees. April – July is the most temperate time to visit, and the clear blue skies above the mountains are reflected in the lakes making for the most spectacular sights.
Must See?
The Valley of the Ten Peaks is arguably the most impressive scene in the entire park. Ten distinctive snow-capped Rocky Mountain peaks reflect in the beautiful Moraine Lake, surrounded by stunning deep green forests. The scene was nicknamed the twenty dollar view, as it once featured on the 20 dollar note, and it truly is easy to see why it was championed so.
read more