Canada has its fair share of wilderness attractions, but the area that packs the most beauty per square inch is, almost inarguably, the Canadian Rockies in Banff and Jasper National Parks. Breathtaking vistas unfold, one after another, from the craggy mountains to the glowing blue lakes to the aspen and larch forests that shimmer in gold every autumn.
For most travelers, the gateway to these parks is either Edmonton or Calgary, Alberta. Those on a budget can breathe a sigh of relief – the ready availability of Canada cheap flights makes it easy to afford a trip.
Banff, located a relatively short drive from Calgary, is a tourist town, hosting as many as 4 million visitors a year, but it is still a fun place to explore and a good option for a place to stay. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants to choose from if you decide to make it your base.
Here are some more ideas for exploring Canada’s spectacular Rockies.
* Moraine Lake. There’s a reason this beauty has been featured on Canada’s 20-dollar bill. It’s a relatively small lake, with a surface area of just .5 miles, but its color and surroundings will give you plenty to marvel at. Like many of the lakes in the Canadian Rockies, Moraine Lake is glacially fed, and its glowing turquoise color can be attributed to the silt-sized particles of rock from the glaciers.
* Lake Louise. Although you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to glacial lakes in Banff National Park, Lake Louise is a great option for exploring. With numerous trails that can be enjoyed by people of all hiking abilities, you can easily delve into the natural beauty. Dominating one end of the lake is the Chateau Lake Louise, one of Canada’s great railway hotels, built in the early half of the 20th century by the Canadian Pacific Railway. Staying there is a luxurious experience of a lifetime, and one that you just might want to splurge on, after saving money on cheap flights.
* Icefields Parkway. For a drive you’ll never forget, take the Icefields Parkway 142 miles from Lake Louise to the town of Jasper. The scenery surrounding the drive is so incredible that it is not just protected by Canada as a National Park, but was also recognized by UNESCO for its natural beauty. You can easily view the pale blue glaciers in Banff and Jasper National Parks from the road, along with beautiful lakes, snow-capped mountain peaks and dense pine forests.
* Pyramid Mountain and Pyramid Lake. This duo goes hand in scenic hand, as the massive mountain rises up in the background of the pine-ringed lake. The area is connected to the town of Jasper by hiking trails, and offers hotels and picnic sites. It’s an ideal place to get out in a canoe for a tranquil yet stunningly beautiful paddle.
To get started on planning your trip, check for the best hotel rates and Canada cheap flights on travel websites like Travelocity.com. You’ll be able to compare prices to get the best deals, and even create packages including hotel, rental car and flights to cut costs even further. Then, make sure your camera is in good working order and that you’ve got plenty of memory cards or film — you’ll be giving it a workout as the Canadian Rockies show you some of the most postcard-perfect scenery in the world.
