Banff is about a 1 1/2 hour drive West of Calgary.
In the fall of 1883, three Canadian Pacific Railway construction workers stumbled across a cave containing hot springs on the eastern slopes of Alberta's Rocky Mountains. From that humble beginning was born Banff National Park, Canada's first national park and the world's third. Spanning 6,641 square kilometres (2,564 square miles) of valleys, mountains, glaciers, forests, meadows and rivers, Banff National Park is one of the world's premier destination spots.
There are many places within Banff National Park to visit, such as Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise, the Icefields, and the Banff Hot Springs to name a few. The scenery is awe-inspiring anywhere you go in this large park.
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| Bow Falls Photo courtesy of Carol V. |
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This is a Bighorn Sheep. You may see many of these around the Park.There are many types of animals you might see on your trip through the Park. Bears, elk, beavers, and many more. It is not uncommon to see elk or moose wandering around the town of Banff, and locals have been known to just make a wide berth around them as they would another person walking down the street. 
Bow Falls runs into Bow River
Photo courtesy of Carol V.
The nature trails and hiking areas of Banff National Park are numerous and have some breath-taking scenery along the way. As with most wilderness trails, you must be aware of your surroundings. You never know when you might run into a mother bear with her cubs or other wildlife. Make noise as you go to warn animals of your approach. Everyone involved will be happier and can go about their lives with hardly a worry. Educate yourself and talk to Wardens or guides in the area for tips and for keeping you and your surroundings safe. Bears may seem like cute and cuddly animals, but they can be deadly, especially if you come between a momma and her cubs! (What mother out there hasn't felt that rage for anyone messing with their kid?) They can also run much faster than you think they can.
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| Banff Springs Hotel (now called Fairmont Springs Banff) Photo courtesy of Carol V. |
This late Victorian style hotel is commonly referred to as "The Castle in the Rockies". It is magnificent and beautiful. It was opened to the public in 1888, suffered a decline during WW 2 and had to close it's doors to the public. But it re-opened in 1945, and now enjoys it's reign once again. It is an expensive place to stay, so I have never stayed there, but you can visit and have Afternoon Tea there.
Marilyn Monroe and Robert Mitchum shot a movie near Bow Falls called "River of No Return".
