Questions about traveling to Banff
Mar 7, 2018 20:01:34 #
I remember some good information provided by UHH members a few months ago in regard to traveling around Banff. Unfortunately, I don't know where it is now. I'm planning a trip there in early June. I remember people saying that Lake Louise was a must and that the Ice Field Parkway was absolutely spectacular. Should I plan on Jasper too? Would I have plenty of photo opportunities if a I take the Lake Louise and Jasper bus tours (half day I think)? I could also arrange to rent a car. I assume that there are many places to stop along the road to take pictures other than the planned stops at places like Bow Lake, Columbia Icefield, the Jasper National Park. What do people think? Thanks in advance.
Mar 7, 2018 20:11:39 #
You got it! Do it!
Been there done that - twice. Play it by ear and don't plan everything in advance. Be flexible. There are places that will attract you more than others.
Now that you brought it up, I think it's time for us to do it one more time, I'm not getting any younger.
Cheers!
Bob
Been there done that - twice. Play it by ear and don't plan everything in advance. Be flexible. There are places that will attract you more than others.
Now that you brought it up, I think it's time for us to do it one more time, I'm not getting any younger.
Cheers!
Bob
Mar 7, 2018 20:21:51 #
Keldon
Loc: Yukon, B.C.
Contact www.oopoomoo.com Darwin is a local photographer who has written several books about photographing Banff, Jasper, the Icefields Parkway and others. These are excellent reference books and go into great detail as to where to photograph and even what time of day is best.
I've travelled throughout these parks many times and always discover new places.
I've travelled throughout these parks many times and always discover new places.
Mar 7, 2018 21:47:14 #
Rent the car! Remember your 6x times tables because the signs and spedos are all METRIC! Of COURSE I got a ticket! Fabulous photography and wi will be chilly in June.
C
C
Mar 7, 2018 22:07:14 #
Vancouver to Banff.
This email just reminded me of our vacation trip to western Canada that involved one of the two best small world stories of my life as well as nonstop scenery. We live in Coastal Oregon. We were hiking up to a lake not far from Banff and two women a bit older than us were coming back down. One of them had on a sweatshirt that said "Rumson H.S." I stopped them and asked; Rumson, N.J.? The response was: Yes. I said, We are on our way there for my 50th year reunion! They said: "Is that so. Well, WE are on our way home from our 60th !" They went on down the hill and we went on up and never saw them again.
To actually answer your question, it's awesome. We hope to do it again.
Cheers!
Bob
This email just reminded me of our vacation trip to western Canada that involved one of the two best small world stories of my life as well as nonstop scenery. We live in Coastal Oregon. We were hiking up to a lake not far from Banff and two women a bit older than us were coming back down. One of them had on a sweatshirt that said "Rumson H.S." I stopped them and asked; Rumson, N.J.? The response was: Yes. I said, We are on our way there for my 50th year reunion! They said: "Is that so. Well, WE are on our way home from our 60th !" They went on down the hill and we went on up and never saw them again.
To actually answer your question, it's awesome. We hope to do it again.
Cheers!
Bob
Mar 7, 2018 23:07:48 #
Local tours are much preferred over driving. The good ones have frequent stops to allow 30-60 minute hikes that virtually all can participate in. I took my son there did the entire trip without driving a single mile. Driving is way overrated.
Mar 8, 2018 00:15:58 #
Not so sure about Jasper but Lake Louise is a must. We went in October after the peak tourist season. I heard that the crowds around the lake are almost unbearable in peak season. We were there when it was just starting to snow and we were underdressed for the weather. Good hiking if you have the right clothes in autumn.
Mar 8, 2018 06:52:35 #
When in Banff, walk down the main street and cross the river. Walk around the big red official looking building and view the beautiful gardens covering the hillside. Great photo opts.
Mar 8, 2018 07:35:26 #
LeeK wrote:
I remember some good information provided by UHH m... (show quote)
If you are going to rent a car in a foreign country be sure to advise your insurance company of your intentions.
Mar 8, 2018 07:43:55 #
LeeK wrote:
I remember some good information provided by UHH m... (show quote)
By all means include Jasper and rent a car. Be advised, however, that you cannot rent a car in Canada and return it in the USA or vice-versa.
Mar 8, 2018 08:37:32 #
Dikdik
Loc: Winnipeg, Canada
Great place for photos... also, the roadway to Jasper. The whole area is a delight. You can use a wide angle, midrange, and telephoto lens, as well as take macros of some of the flora. Have a good trip, and, you cannot take too many pictures.
Dik
Dik
Mar 8, 2018 08:37:56 #
If you have the time, go to Jasper. The Icefields Parkway to there is worth the trip alone. And catch sight of the a Athabasca Glacier on the way.
Mar 8, 2018 08:39:16 #
Most importantly, when you arrive... Don't forget to breath. 
Mar 8, 2018 08:42:55 #
Dikdik
Loc: Winnipeg, Canada
big-guy wrote:
Most importantly, when you arrive... Don't forget to breath.
Excellent comment... may save his life... been there over a dozen times...
Dik
Mar 8, 2018 09:08:37 #
Wanderer2
Loc: Colorado Rocky Mountains
I have traveled extensively and live with a view of the Teton range from my house windows. But, the Icefields Parkway and surroundings are the most beautiful mountain & alpine scenery I've ever seen (I've been there 6 times and hope to go more). You will have the trip of a lifetime so allow lots of time to do it. A car is a must and don't plan on driving quickly - in your planning allow much more time than you usually do. The first time I visited there (1991) it took me 2 1/2 hours to do the first 50 miles (there are lots of pullouts).
You have received much good info above on specific places to see. I would add Moraine Lake, even more beautiful than Lake Louise (if it was mentioned previously I missed it)
Have a wonderful trip. It should be one you never forget.
You have received much good info above on specific places to see. I would add Moraine Lake, even more beautiful than Lake Louise (if it was mentioned previously I missed it)
Have a wonderful trip. It should be one you never forget.
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