I have been living in Alberta for over 40 years and like to share some of beautiful spots and moments I encountered. Since the folks from the US and the Philippines may not have chance to see where I live, I'm going to post photos in the next few posts. The first post is a world heritage site, the Canadian Rockies. These are my photos.
Starting with the most famous Banff National Park, the first National Park in Canada. It takes about four hours by car from my house to Banff. Since it is the busiest tourist destination, we tend to stay away and spend more time in less known locations. But it has so many beautiful spots and I have to start with Banff. Above photo is Randle Mountain near the town of Banff.
The Town of Banff. It started with the Canadian Pacific Railway construction in 1883. There are many reasonable hotels in the town, if you need to save money. Playing golf in Banff (36 hole golf course in the photo) is relatively expensive in Canadian standard.
Next stop is at Lake Louise. The Chateau Lake Louise is one of the oldest hotel in Banff and has a beautiful view of the Lake (below).
From Lake Louise you can drive up to Moraine Lake.
From Lake Lousie the Trans-Canada Highway goes into Yoho National Park in British Columbia, an adjacent Province. In Yoho you find Takakawa Falls tumbling 384m (1,260 feet).
Going back to Lake Louise then take the Icefield Parkway known as the Banff-Jasper Highway. This Herbert Lake is well known by photographers but not for tourists and one on my favorite photo spots.
Bow Lake is one of larger lakes along the Icefield Parkway.
Payto Lake is one of the most photographed lakes in Banff. It has a breathtaking view.
The Icefield Parkway leaves Banff National Park and enters to Jasper National Park, where you find the Columbia Icefield. The ice has receded a few hundred meters since I first visited in 70's. I can see and feel the global warming trend.
You can go onto the ice by taking this huge bus.
Wildlife is commonly seen throughout Alberta. Some endangered species in North America such as Grizlie Bears and Golden Eagles are much more common in the Canadian Rockies.
Next post will include more outdoor activities hopefully soon.
