Canadian Rockies Vacations Guide - Banff National Park

Unique Accommodations of the Canadian Rockies

The Mountain Man — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 18:43:32 +0000

Unique Accommodations of the Canadian Rockies

Banff National Park, Alberta

You choose some accommodations to be close to Banff centre, shopping and restaurants. You choose some for price and you choose some for luxury but some you reserve for those special vacations. These Hotels and Lodges are unique, memorable, peaceful, invigorating and exciting. Mount Assiniboine Lodge is one of these. It is accessible only by helicopter, hiking or skiing yet is still adjacent to Banff National Park and only three hours from Calgary International Airport. Intrigued?

Mount Assiniboine Lodge, though only 3 hours from Calgary can only be reached by hiking, skiing or helicopter.

If you are catching the helicopter, you hop on from Canmore, 20 minutes drive east of Banff. If you ski or hike; the helicopter can carry your luggage. Located in Assiniboine National Park, BC – this will be one of the most unique accommodations you have ever had the pleasure to stay in. it was built in 1928 by the Canadian Pacific Railway. Though rustic, it is comfortable and can fit as much as 30 people per night. It is now owned by BC parks but managed brilliantly by Sepp and Bard Renner since 1983. They provide a full service package at the lodge which includes all meals, lodging, winter and summer guiding and helicopter access.

Though you may not be located next door to a shop that makes soap in the shape of an elk or a fudgery (not sure if that’s a word) with overly addictive sweets, you have everything beautiful that nature can provide you. Wherever you are staying in the Rockies whether it be Banff, Jasper or Assiniboine you are going to have a great time. A wise philosopher…or maybe Janet Jackson once said that ‘the best things in life are free’. Well it may cost a little extra to stay in a place like the Mount Assiniboine Lodge but the rewards are endless.

Book Mount Assiniboine Lodge

More Back-country Lodge Options

Things to do in Banff – the Banff Gondola

Rick Wilson — Tue, 16 Mar 2010 18:48:49 +0000

Things to do in Banff – the Banff Gondola

Banff National Park, Alberta

Coming to a town like Banff is not the same as going to a big city. You don’t have to waste much time on transport and almost everything is walkable from your hotel. The sightseeing is generally all natural. It is not about architecture and thousand year old pavements. It is about wildlife, tall trees, surrounding mountains and drinking in as much beauty as possible while breathing in the freshest air in the world. One great way to this with a difference is the Banff Gondola.

You get some of the best sights of the Rockies from the Banff Gondola.

This is a “must do” while in Banff National Park. You can walk to the top of Sulphur Mountain to see these views but the Gondola is a really fun and unique way of seeing the Rockies comfortably from a hundred different viewpoints. At the top, you can jump out and treat yourself to a coffee before going out onto the roof where there are 360 degree views and a viewing platform. You will see a bird’s eye view of Banff town, the Fairmont Banff Springs and golf course. You will see miles of trees standing to attention of the slopes of Sulphur. There are signs at the top that tell you exactly how far away most major cities in the world are from where you are standing and on a clear day you really believe you could see them!

The ride itself takes eight minutes and takes you to the summit of Sulphur Mountain in a superb, fully-enclosed four passenger gondola. As you climb the 2,292 feet, the views just keep getting better. At the very top you will be standing at 7,486ft above sea level (depending on your height!). As far as Banff activities go, this really is a “must do”. Wait for a clear day and get the camera ready, the Canadian Rockies do not disappoint.

For more information – Phone: (403) 762-2523

Eating on a Budget in Canmore

Rick Wilson — Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:41:35 +0000

Eating Out on a Budget in Canmore

Canmore, Alberta

Banff is generally not too welcome to franchise businesses though McDonalds, Subway and Starbucks all make an appearance. It is mine and most Canadian’s favourite cafe that we all crave here though. Tim Hortons is refreshing in the respect that you can actually afford to go in and pay less than the typical $75 for a small (or grande) latte. If you are already staying in a pricey Canmore or Banff hotel, you don’t want to be throwing too much money around on overpriced snack food. After a day of hectic activities in the Canadian Rockies, there is nothing as satisfying as a Tim Horton’s feed and coffee.

The stunning sun sets over the Three Sisters Mountain Range is just another perk to staying in Canmore.

Located just off the highway in the entrance to Canmore from Banff, there is plenty of parking and it is also connected to a Wendy’s fast food chain if you are feeling particularly gluttonous. If you have never had the pleasure of a trip to a Tim Horton’s around Canada, then you are in for a treat. There are about ten thousand specials to choose from where you can choose between Pepsi and coffee, soup and donuts, BLT’s and Turkey Club’s – everything is affordable for the normal person. It can be heartbreaking sometimes going into Starbucks for example for a coffee and muffin and paying half your daily wages!

Canmore is only a scenic 20 minute drive from Banff. It is bigger and quite different. There are less tourists and more quaint cafes, cool bars with gorgeous summer verandas. The mountains seem even closer than Banff and the people even friendlier if that is possible. If you are travelling from Calgary for example, you may be sick to death of Tim Horton’s but fear not, there are some superb eateries for snacks such as the Communitea and Beamers. Canmore is a great alternative to rent a hotel room to Banff. There are some great options and the prices are generally a bit lower. You will still be equally close to ski hills and hiking and more importantly – Tim Horton’s!

Live Music in Banff- Wild Bills

The Mountain Man — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 23:49:47 +0000

Live Music in Banff- Wild Bills

Banff National Park, Alberta

For a long time I complained that Canmore gets all the good live music. I thought that Banff was just full of loud cover bands that turn up the speakers to the point that you can’t hear yourself speak. Sometimes this can be good on a big night out and especially when you are actually speaking rubbish. However, finally I have found a place that has regular smaller acoustic sets where you can sit down with a nice cold beer or three and enjoy the music. Wild Bills – at the centre of all Banff hotels and accommodations is ideal.

Ducks have wild Bills as does Banff.

The bands that play there vary greatly. From American rappers like D12 to the bluesy reggae of Australian singer Toby, it really does host all sorts. Wild Bills is a great venue. It is surprisingly big so you can be centre stage or all the way around the back of the building to have a quiet drink and enjoy the music from afar. It has been around Banff a long time and has a reputation as somewhere that always has some sort of entertainment on whether it is line dancing or cattle catching.

Though Canmore really does have a great live scene, Banff is equally good though you just have to look a little harder for it. Keep in mind that this is Banff and there are specials every night of the week. On Monday night for the Toby gig for example, you could get two beers for $7 – not bad at all for a place like Wild Bills. If you are staying in a hotel in Banff and looking to watch live music, the best thing to do is just ask one of the staff. Word of mouth carries a lot of weight.

Call Wild Bills for more info on live gigs –

201 Banff Avenue
Banff, AB T1L 1C4
(403) 762-0333

Cozy Montana Lodges Near Glacier National Park

amay — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 22:33:21 +0000

By Amanda May
Staff Writer
CanadianRockies.net

Glacier National Park is a pristine Montana wilderness area that has a multitude of hiking, fishing, camping and rafting opportunities.

The park’s lush valleys, cascading waterfalls, and jagged peaks play host to visitors from across the country every year and is the home for wildlife like mountain goats, sheep, grizzly bears and trout.

After a long day exploring the park, a comfortable bed sounds like heaven. There are many Montana lodges not far from the park to choose from. Read below for a list of a few CanadianRockies.net recommendations.

Historic Tamarack Lodge and Cabins
Well known for hospitality, hearty breakfasts and affordable rates, you’ll find it perfectly located in Montana’s scenic Bad Rock Canyon, just minutes from the west entrance of Glacier National Park. Tamarack has eight family sized cabins that sleep up to six guests each, five cabins that sleep up to four guests each and several more options. You can reach them at 406-387-4420. You can also visit Historic Tamarack Lodge and Cabins for more information.

Belton Chalet & Lodge
This chalet offers historic lodging on the border of Glacier National Park. This 1910 lodge is only a few yards from the park’s west entrance and has been extensively restored. Stay here for close access to hiking, fishing, rafting, hunting and many other Montana activities. Amenities include an on-site spa, restaurant, bar/lounge and fireplaces in the lobby and many rooms. Call (888) 235-8665 or visit Belton Chalet & Lodge for more information.

Glacier Park Lodge
This lodge was built almost 100 years ago by the Great Northern Railway in East Glacier Park, Montana. The building is made of enormous timbers with accommodations for more than 500 people! Amenities include the on-site Great Northern Steak and Rib House, cocktail lounge, gift shop, outdoor swimming pool, and nine-hole golf course. Great access to the Two Medicine Region of Glacier! Call (406) 892-2525 or visit Glacier Park Lodge for more information.

North Forty Resort
This Columbia Falls lodging property offers log cabins with affordable options for everyone from single travelers to large groups of family or friends. Amenities include full kitchens, log furnishings, fireplace, covered porches, barbeques, hot tubs and more. In the winter you’ll love their bonfire area and the cross-country skiing trails! Call (406) 862-7740 or visit North Forty Resort to make reservations.

Great Northern Lodging
This lodging option is a cozy log-built chalet one mile from West Glacier, Montana. Choose from units of two sizes. The larger units include a full bath, 3 queen size beds upstairs and a half bath downstairs. Amenities include televisions, upper and lower decks, gas grills and much more. Call (800) 735-7897 or visit Great Northern Lodging for more information. They can also organize fishing, rafting and kayaking trips for you!

Hideaway Resorts LLC
This company represents multiple Montana lodges and vacation homes. Their ‘hideaways’ will find you in private and scenic parts of the state alongside rivers, lakes, forests and/or mountains. The properties will put you in perfect positioning to visit Glacier National Park and all its activities (hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, rafting, fishing, etc.) Call (406) 862-5500 or visit Hideaway Resorts LLC to book your next vacation!

St. Mary Lodge and Resort
This vacation resort is on the northeast border of Glacier National Park. Choose from lodge and motel rooms, teepees, cabins or their new luxury cabins with great views of the park. The great outdoors will be right at hand, as well as shopping and dining. The lodge has two restaurants serving the areas specialties: buffalo, trout and huckleberries. Some properties also include fireplaces and hot tubs. Call (406) 732-4431 or visit St. Mary Lodge and Resort to reserve!

Hiking in Glacier National Park

amay — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 21:02:19 +0000

By Amanda May
Staff Writer
CanadianRockies.com

Montana’s Glacier National Park is a hiking paradise. With plenty of backcountry trails full of waterfalls, wildflowers and rugged mountain peaks, you’ll definitely want to bring your hiking boots and your camera here on your next Montana vacation!

Waterfalls and glacially-sculpted lakes are just two of the natural wonders that await hikers in Glacier National Park. (National Park Service)

This national park is in an unspoiled part of northwest Montana, full of wildlife in their natural settings. During your hike you may see elk, moose, mountain goats, marmot, grizzly bears or even wolverines!

The area was carved out by ancient glaciers and has some of the most distinctive peaks that the Rockies have to offer. And Montana’s famous big sky gets even bigger when mirrored in one of Glacier’s reflective high mountain lakes!

Fishing in Glacier National Park is fantastic, with multiple kinds of trout normally caught, as well as arctic grayling and whitefish. Hike to one of the snowmelt steams or high country lakes for an unforgettable drive or hike-in fishing trip!

Stay in nearby Whitefish, Columbia Falls or Kalispell, Montana for a place to put your feet up after a day of hiking. Area lodging ranges from affordable hotels to vacation rentals.

There are also a number of tour guide companies that can show you around the park. They will cater to your group’s interests and hiking ability level.

The park has over 700 miles of trails, providing years and years of options for hikers.

There are hikes to antique chalets, historic sites, scenic lookouts and more in the Many Glacier, Two Medicine, Lake McDonald, North Fork and Logan Pass regions of the park.

The Many Glacier Region borders the Waterton Lakes National Park and the Canadian Rockies at the north edge of the park.

The North Fork Region is a fantastic place to hike if you want to get away from it all. It is also a prime trout fishing area in Montana.

Logan Pass is probably the best-known region in Glacier. The hikes are very popular, and with good reason. Hiking here will get you to some of the most dramatic views of lush valleys and jagged peaks in the park.

West Glacier is another popular region. It has hikes at lower elevations and short, family friendly paths around Lake McDonald.

Two Medicine Region is in the southeast portion of the park. It is mostly overlooked by visitors despite the fact that it has some of the best wildlife viewing in the park. It also has some gorgeous lakes and secluded hikes.

Scenic Drive in Glacier National Park: Going-to-the-Sun Road

amay — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 20:30:51 +0000

By Amanda May
Staff Writer
CanadianRockies.net

Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of Glacier National Park’s best drives and a definite to-do on any Montana vacation. Connecting West Glacier and St. Mary, the route takes you through the heart of the park and Logan Pass.

Crossing Logan Pass on Going-to-the-Sun Road is one of the best scenic drives in Montana.

On your way, you’ll pass by Haystack Mountain, Mount Gould, Bear Hat Mountain and Mount Cannon, a few of Glacier’s landmark peaks.

In the deep valley you also be able to feast your eyes on vast fields of bear grass, a white, bell-shaped wildflower, along with colorful Indian Paintbrush and Magenta Fire Weed.

Guard rails and brick walls will prevent you from falling from the deep canyons that the road winds along. Other amazing driving experiences along the route include entering rock-hewn tunnels and driving right by waterfalls.

Bring your camera because along the way you’ll probably see a few mountain goats, sheep and maybe even a grizzly bear!

Going-to-the-Sun Road is 52 miles long and was completed by 1932 by the United States government. It was an epic project, crossing the Continental Divide at 6,646 feet at Logan Pass. It runs through ancient cedar forests, alpine tundra and borders glacial lakes.

Five out of Glacier’s total thirteen campgrounds are located along the road; Apgar, Sprague Creek, Avalanche, Rising Sun, and St. Mary.

Scenic viewpoints are sprinkled along the route with pullouts for drivers. The route is great no matter what direction you take it in, and since the views are actually quite different, you might want to take it both ways!

Don’t miss your opportunity to see a glacier from the side of the road at Jackson Glacier Overlook! It is located between Logan Pass and St. Mary.

Without stopping, it usually takes drivers around 2 hour, but take it easy, stop, take in the majestic views and get some great photos along the way!

FYI
To drive along Going-to-the-Sun Road, your vehicle must be 21 feet or shorter, 8 feet (or less) wide and less than 10 feet high, so you can make it through the tunnels. Check your vehicle before setting out on the drive and check the weather. Conditions can rapidly change in this part of Montana, so be prepared!

Hiring a tour guide is a good way to get the most out of the drive, as they can point out features and let you in on the history of the area.

Lunch Creek flows under Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. (National Park Service)

The scenic drive is free, but there is an entrance fee to Glacier National Park.

Obey the speed limit, they are there for your own safety! The speed limit is 40 miles per hour in the lower sections and 25 miles per hour in the alpine section of the drive.

As the road is over 75 years old, it is undergoing a rebuilding phase. During high season delays will be held to 30 minutes on any one-way trip along the road, but in late autumn delays may last up to 2 hours. The reconstruction will be taking place over the next 8-10 years. During 2010’s summer, road work is scheduled to occur west of Logan Pass between Big Bend and Logan Pass.

Be aware that there are no gas stations or restaurants along the way!

Five Best Hikes: Lake McDonald Region of Glacier National Park

amay — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 19:04:06 +0000

By Amanda May
Staff Writer
CanadianRockies.net

Lake McDonald is one of the best places to have some outdoor fun in Glacier National Park. There are many great hikes around the lake and in the surrounding scenic valley.

Lake McDonald is the largest of Glacier's lake, at 10 miles long and 400 feet deep. (National Park Service)

Read below for five CanadianRockies.net recommended hikes in the region, but before heading out on these hikes check in with a guide or park ranger for up-to-date information on trail closings, weather reports and wildlife tracking such as grizzly sightings.

Sperry Chalet
This is a 6.4-mile hike (one way) and takes on a 3,500-foot elevation gain. Sure, it’s challenging, but it will get you to the Chalet, a classic Montana building in the wilderness of Glacier National Park and great views along the way!

Trout Lake
This hike is another relatively tough one, at 4.2 miles long with 2,100 feet of elevation. Views of Lake McDonald and Heaven’s Peak!

Apgar Lookout
This hike leads to a lookout for forest fires. It looks to the southwest part of Glacier National Park. The hike is 3.3 miles long and has an elevation rise of 1,900 feet.

Rocky Point
This short hike is 1.1 miles long, perfect for families with children. It is located on the quieter side of Lake McDonald, with plenty of nice views and opportunities to see local wildlife.

Snyder Lake
Take this moderate hike around a pristine little lake in Glacier. The hike is 4.4 miles total.

Five Best Hikes: Two Medicine Region of Glacier National Park

amay — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 18:13:08 +0000

By Amanda May
Staff Writer
CanadianRockies.net

The Two Medicine Region is a secluded part of Glacier National Park. Hiking in this unspoiled area takes you past waterfalls, cliffs, caves and waterfalls. Contemplate the surreal blue of Cobalt Lake and catch glimpses of lots of Montana wildlife during your hike!

Twin Medicine Region landscape. (National Park Service)

Stay in nearby hotels to base your stay here by the park and read below for our top five picks for hikes in the Two Medicine Region.

Running Eagle Falls
Visit this waterfall with the whole family! It is a very short walk from the parking lot (.1 miles). The falls are unique, with part of it spilling off a cliff and another park pouring out of a cave from an underground river.

Cobalt Lake
This is a true hike that will take you 5.7 miles and 1,400 feet up. On the way you’ll see vast fields of wildflowers and get fantastic views of the Two Medicine lakes and the unreal blue of Cobalt Lake.

Dawson Pass
This hike is a real challenge. It is 6.7 miles long and takes hikers up almost 2,500 feet of elevation gain. The views are spectacular and you will have the rare chance to view a wolverine in the wild. It takes a while, so get an early start!

Scenic Point
This hike leads up to, you guessed it, a scenic lookout point that hikers and photographers will love! The path is just 3.1 miles long, but gains 2,300 feet, so it is considered a moderate to strenuous hike.

Aster Park
This is a short, 1.9 mile hike that is family friendly, with only 750 feet of vertical gain. It takes you past the banks of Two Medicine Lake and leads to a picturesque waterfall.

Note: Check in with a park ranger at Glacier National Park before setting out on any of these hikes, as they will have the most up-to-date information on wildlife activity, trail closings and weather reports.

Glacier National Park Turns 100

amay — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 17:30:30 +0000

By Amanda May
Staff Writer
Canadianrockies.net

Since May 11th of 1910, Glacier National Park has hosted visitors in northern Montana. In 2010, will be marking its 100th year with huge celebrations and festivities. The 10th park to be named in the United States.

Glacier National Park scenes. (National Park Service)

Stay in towns near the park like Whitefish, Kalispell or Columbia Falls and join in the party!

Read below for a listing of activities this year:

Glacier National Park Rededication
Park Superintendent Chas Cartwright will kick off the 100th anniversary celebration. Enjoy the live music and tours of the historic sites in the park, leaving from the Glacier Community Center on May 11th from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Just ask a park ranger at the entrance how to get to the community center!

Glacier Centennial Plein Air Paint Out
Plein air artists will be painting for three days within the park from June 22-24. Watch them capture the beauty of Glacier National Park or attend the reception in the Hockaday Museum in Kalispell, Montana. Maps with the artist’s locations will be available at park entrances and ranger stations.

Centennial Poetry Reading at the Belton
Come to the Belton Chalet, across from the entrance to West Glacier, on June 25th to hear live poetry readings all day.

Glacier Centennial Symphony
Attend the Glacier Symphony summer pops concert from 6 to 10 p.m. on July 10th, 2010. It will be held at the Rebecca Farm at 1385 Farm to Market Road in Kalispell, Montana.

Centennial Heritage Days
Columbia Falls’ traditional summer celebration will be centennial themed this year. If you’re in the area from July 22-25, check out the parade, races and dancing in the streets. Columbia Falls is just a few miles from West Glacier.

Centennial Hootenanny
Ten different folk and singing groups will perform on July 30th from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and on August 2nd and 3rd from 5-8 p.m.

Centennial Huckleberry Days
Whitefish, Montana will be celebrating its annual huckleberry festival this year, but with some extra centennial oomph. The delicious berry will be available at the festival in the form of ice cream, desserts and even flavored beer! August 13-15, 2010, downtown Whitefish.

Check back on CanadianRockies.net for updates as we get more info on Glacier National Park centennial events!