The Funky Site - Banff NP

Banff NP

Created 23rd July 2006, last updated 23rd July 2006.

Banff National Park was created purely as a tourist attraction, and it certainly does attract them! Located just an easy hours drive from Calgary, it's beautifully nestled at the foot of several mountains. On the drive from Calgary you can see the mountains on the horizon, and the nearer you get the more imposing they become. We stayed at the Hidden Ridge Resort under the shadow of Rundle Mountain, and definately enjoyed our time there. The local gophers are very cute, and even though we never used it the giant hot tub is a great idea!

Approaching Banff from Calgary

Flowers on the highway

An Indian Paintbrush

Alpine field

Alpine flowers

Island view

Johnston Canyon

Walking down Johnston Canyon

Driving from Banff to Jasper, you drive along the spectacular Icefield Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in the world (allegedly, although I'm inclined to agree). The at plenty of places of interest (the Icefields Parkway website has full details) and the mountains flank both sides. Peyto Lake is one of the main stopping points on the tourist trail, although we found it to be no more impressive than many of the other lakes in the parks. The weather was a bit changeable for us, so maybe some early morning sunshine makes all the difference.