I spent a long weekend exploring the winter playground of Banff, Alberta, Canada at the invitation of Banff Lake Louise Tourism. Since I had never been to this part of Canada before, the goal was to both explore the region and to highlight some of the great non-ski activities. I was especially appropriate for this mission since I don’t ski, I fall, and ungracefully at that. We had an amazing weekend learning more about this popular travel destination and while I will be sharing my stories and experiences with you soon, I first wanted to show you some of the highlights of our trip. Below are some photos I took that I think encapsulate why Banff and nearby Lake Louise are such amazing vacation destinations.
Kingmik Dogsled Tour
Banff Springs Hotel
Frozen Waterfall – Johnston Canyon
Sheila the sled dog
Banff
Ice hockey on Lake Louise
Sled dogs on the Continental Divide
Banff Hot Springs
Who am I? I am a typical Gen-Xer and recovering cubicle-dweller who has a passion for all things travel. My site brings a unique perspective that is hard to find online. I am not a backpacker, nor am I...
Love the photo of town with the mountains in the background. Gorgeous!
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Megan Reply:
January 21st, 2012 at 1:30 pm
Agreed! I was gonna say the same thing! That picture looks unreal.
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Incredible photos Matt! My favorite is the first one. Can’t believe how different this area looks compared to when I was there in the fall in September. It’s amazing how quickly the landscape was changing when I was there and now it has snow!
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Matt,
Looks like great fun. Be absolutely certain to get a return trip to Banff in the summer. In particular, a ride up the local gondolas are certain to produce moments of sheer awe as you gaze down into the valley, and across the great expanse of the Canadian Rockies.
We LOVE this area, and hope to be back again in our travels.
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Matt Long Reply:
January 16th, 2012 at 6:33 pm
Thanks and we did go up the gondola, in spite of the frigid temps and loved it
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Wow, gorgeous photos! I have wanted to visit Banff & Lake Louise since the 6th grade (a LONG time ago!), when I saw photos in my World Book Encyclopedias. Your photos make me want to go now even more!
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Looks like you had an amazing time. It’s great that you are showcasing how much more there is to do in winter besides skiing. You will definitely have to come back in the summer, it’s an entire different beauty.
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seriously amazing photos. we used the first one for our photo of the day today! and i can’t get over that one with the mountain as the backdrop to the town. xo
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Matt Long Reply:
January 16th, 2012 at 6:31 pm
Thank you! I appreciate that
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These pics are stunning!! I couldn’t wait for you to publish your photos. I can’t get over the mountains behind “Main Street USA.” ; ). Just gorgeous my friend!
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Matt Long Reply:
January 16th, 2012 at 6:31 pm
thanks Jeff, many, many more to come
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Beautiful! Beautiful! Beautiful! I think that this just made the list onto our US National Parks road trip this summer…. looks like we’ll be adding Canada too. That photo of Banff is unreal. The perfect mountain town.
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Matt Long Reply:
January 16th, 2012 at 9:34 pm
You definitely need to add Canada. The Banff/Lake Louise Park was just so stunning, as it is at all times of year. I can’t wait to revisit in the summer to see the differences.
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What an adventure! I want to dive in that hot pool immediately
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Matt Long Reply:
February 26th, 2012 at 12:22 pm
Yeah, it was an amazing trip and the hot pool well worth the time
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Stunning pictures – particularly liked the last one. Banff rocks – ifyou haven’t been put it on the bucket list. Nice blog piece Matt – duly shared it around
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There is something about mountain towns and fudge/candy shops. I don’t know what it is, but here in Colorado it is true as well. You’re right. Just enjoy it and be happy.
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