Alberta

Welcome to the adventure of a lifetime! An amazing journey from the rugged beauty of Jasper National Park, to the nature of Yoho National Park, to the iconic landscapes of Banff, this road trip is your ticket to breathtaking vistas, pristine lakes, and encounters with wildlife in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a photography buff or simply seeking a scenic escape, our guide is your trusted companion. Let's hit the open road and explore the enchanting wonders of Jasper and Banff on this unforgettable journey.

Banff Springs and Lake Louise hold a special place in my heart because they embody the natural beauty and serenity that I cherish. The stunning architecture of the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, nestled amid majestic mountains, evokes a sense of timeless elegance, while the crystal-clear waters of Lake Louise, framed by towering peaks, create a picturesque setting that feels almost magical. Wildflowers bloom across the meadows, adding vibrant splashes of color to the scenery. Wildlife is abundant, with opportunities to spot elk, deer and even the occasional bear. The charming town of Banff itself offers delightful shops, cafes and art galleries, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Lake Louise, framed by mountains and glaciers, is one of the most famous mountain vistas in the world, located within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. It has everything you need for an amazing trip. From gorgeous glacier lakes, hikes to tea houses, wildlife watching, scenic drives and high tea or fine dining by a cozy fire. There are relaxing spa services and one of North America's best wine cellars. My husband and I have visited numerous times over the past three decades. Most recently, we went for our "2022 Beat the Arkansas Heat & Escape the Empty Nest" trip after dropping off our last child at college.

Banff is all about enjoying the great outdoors to the point of exhaustion and then collapsing fireside with some lovely Alpine treats. Only 90 minutes from Calgary, you can go skiing, dog sledding, have a schvitz at a natural hot spring and then settle in with some fondue and the best sleep you’ll ever have. Pack your swimsuit AND your parka!

When Americans think about the Rockies, we rarely consider that the majestic mountain range extends into the great white north of Canada. A mix of urban and outdoorsy with a strong US dollar and surprisingly quick international flights, Calgary is a great contender for a relaxing winter getaway. When everyone is turning south to find warmth, why not double-down and embrace the season?

There is nothing quite as breathtaking as the Canadian Rockies. Banff National Park sits right in the heart of western Alberta, Canada. It offers breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, thundering waterfalls, darling townsite, cozy fires and food for days. Banff is a must visit destination for a beautiful, truly Canadian experience.

I stayed at the Fairmont Hotel Macdonald in August of 2023 and did a site inspection while staying at this beautiful property. The standout feature of this hotel is the staff. Each and every level of the guest experience was exceptional and that’s largely thanks to the excellent and attentive staff at every level of the hotel.

The hotel has a fascinating history in Edmonton and was built in 1915. The hotel is the only historic four-star hotel in Edmonton and is referred to as the “Chateau on the River.” The property sits atop the ridge line of Edmonton’s downtown and has beautiful sweeping views of the North Saskatchewan River. Queen Elizabeth II herself stayed at the hotel in 2015. I would stay here again and highly recommend it to my clients.

The Canadian Rockies is a haven of majestic nature that took my breath away from the first moment I arrived. With beautiful mountains and glacier lakes galore, my family and I explored many of Canada’s national parks that include Banff, Jasper and Yoho. This is a vacation where you can truly unwind from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the beauty of nature. A trip to visit the Canadian Rockies should be on everyone’s bucket list.