Banff

Last week, we had the opportunity to explore the Banff region in the Canadian Rockies. We did a bit of cycling, hiking, and kayaking. It’s an area I’ve only been to once before, in the winter, and in the summer, it was equally magical.

Lake Louise was simply spectacular. We learned the distinct color of the water came from the crushed rocks in the glacial melt.

We hiked up to the tea house which is supplied with food either on foot or by helicopter every couple of weeks. Worth it despite the limited menu.

Riding to Waterton, Canada on the open road. It felt kind of remote - a car would pass by maybe every five or ten minutes. Loved the wide shoulder, too.

Endless prairie.

We visited the Remington Carriage Museum in Cardston and learned about the history of the area and how everyone got around before cars. Several carriages from back in the day we learned were valued today over $300,000, and had wood wheels with natural rubber, or metal, tires. We also visited a 300 acre farm and learned that at one point even in the late 1800s, there were hundreds of thousands of cattle to satisfy the demand for beef consumption.

Seven years ago, a fire ripped through Waterton Lakes National Park destroying about 35% of the park. In such a short time, it was really nice to see how the area is slowing bouncing back.

Downtown Banff. What a great mountain town!

Kayaking in Waterton. 

Waterton waterfall.

While cycling out to Red Rock Canyon from Waterton, twice I rode past two mama + cubs. Unfortunately several cars were stopped on the road in what is called a "bear jam". I was able to grab a quick pic, and kept on my way.

On the way to Red Rock Canyon.

Lake Louise from above.