Just as the boundary divides two countries it also splits a mountain range and if you thought that the Rocky Mountains were all about America then this is where you find out why that simply isn’t the case.
Encompassing almost 70,000 square miles and weighing in with a mountain peak that is practically 13,000 feet tall (Mount Robson), the Canadian Rockies are more than a match for their counterparts south of the border and definitely a ‘must experience’ for all lovers of the great outdoors.
If you want to find out where to look for further inspiration in the Rockies then read on as from ski resorts to hiking trails that just go on forever, this is definitely the place to inspire your mind, body and soul.
Banff
As the oldest park of its kind in the whole of Canada, Banff National Park is just an awesome place to visit if you’re really hoping to encounter all of the majesty of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Featuring the world-famous Icefields Parkway and Lake Louise, there’s no better place in Alberta to make the most of the great outdoors as you go in search of inspiration. Hot springs, ski resorts and untold mountain and forest trails all go to make Banff NP one of the highlights of the Rockies.
Jasper
If you think that size doesn’t matter when it comes to national parks in Canada then the four thousand odd square miles of Jasper would beg to differ. This is an absolute legendary location within the Canadian Rockies and from kayaking and white-water-rafting to ski areas such as Marmot Basin there’s always an outdoor activity to inspire your thought process no matter what the time of year. Highlights: Mt Edith Cavell (11,000ft) and the Angel Glacier.
Kootenay
Covering almost 500 square miles of Canadian Rocky landscape, Kootenay National Park can be found in to the south of BC and is a lesser visited alternative to neighbours such as Banff and Yoho. This is definitely the best place to come if you’re hoping to spend a day on the trail followed by a few hours of recuperation at the spa and if you’re on the hunt for inspiration then try sitting in a boiling hot mineral enriched pool and you’ll no doubt find what you’re looking for.
Waterton Lake
Thanks to its proximity to America’s Glacier National Park, Waterton provides no end of stunning backdrops across reflective lakes and nowhere are Canada tours in search of inspiration more complete than within the park’s 200 square mile borders. Summit, Cameron and Waterton lakes are all absolutely beautiful and the combination of calm water and polished peak is quite an exceptional experience no matter what you’re searching for.
Yoho
Situated along the borders with Kootenay in the south of British Columbia, Yoho National Park is around the same size as its neighbour and also lacks nothing in the stunning landscape or outdoor activity department. Renowned for both its lakes and impressive waterfalls, Yoho NP is indeed a great source of inspiration for anyone looking to sit and stare for a few hours after a good day’s hike and if you’re looking for the ultimate scenic spot then try Emerald Lake and you won’t be disappointed.
Lake Louise
Regarded as one of the total highlights of a trip to Banff National Park as well as the Canadian Rockies, Lake Lou is up there with the best of them when it comes to meditative and peaceful places to sit and ponder. Views of the half square mile surface of the lake are visible from any number of vantage points and water-based activities, such as: canoeing, kayaking and boating, are all ideal for getting out onto the water and seeing things from a completely new perspective.