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Things to do in Alberta
Canada: Banff National Park
This is the destination of a lifetime. Here, the mountains
are so high; their peaks are lost in the heavens. Glacial
lakes are so sparkling blue, and lush deep forests are home
to the bear and eagle.
The mountain communities of Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise,
Jasper, Hinton, and Grande Cache offer one of the most fulfilling
travel opportunities available. Surrounded by the many wonders
of nature, and incorporating a multitude of activities and
amenities, the Canadian Rockies appeal to visitors of all
ages.
Banff National Park is Canada's first national park and the
third-oldest national park in the world. It is a Canadian
national icon, solidly entrenched in Canada's identity and
character. The park was first created in 1885 as Rocky Mountain
Reserve, a tiny 10 acre parcel surrounding the mineral hot
springs that bubble to the surface on the flanks of the Sulphur
Mountains. Since that time the park has expanded and now includes
the landmarks of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
That is why Banff national park has the city of Banff inside
the park. The city was built on the outside of the park when
it was still small. Then it was expanded to include the entire
city. Another city, which used to be a mining town, had to
be moved to a new location. Almost all the buildings and homes
were actually transported elsewhere so they would not be in
the park.
One of the world's largest protected areas, the four national
parks of Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Yoho are recognized as
an UNESCO World Heritage Site.
If you want to live close to Banff, you can purchase a home
or condo in nearby Canmore. This is where we stayed. It is
a short drive to the park. But In Banff, there are dozens
of hotels you can stay at.
I cannot describe it but the feeling of being in Banff is
different from anywhere else I have been. It was awe inspiring.
It was peaceful. It was natural.
The beauty in Banff and the surrounding parks is something
you have to see for yourself to really appreciate. It is beauty
that you can spend all day staring at. It is the world as
God meant it to be, ad he created it. Banff is definitely
the most beautiful national park I have ever been to in Canada
and the US. If you liked Yosemite, you will love Banff.
The park is about an hour drive from Calgary, and straight
north of Glacier National Park in Montana.
We spent a couple days in Banff, but we should have stayed
longer. I know we will definitely be back. If we can find
a way to do a travel assignment in Banff we will definitely
do that as well.
And I have not even talked about all the winter activities.
There are plenty of slopes and other areas to enjoy the winter.
After all, we are talking about the Rocky Mountains. Whether
you come for the scenery, the snow, the river, or to camp,
you will love Banff. It is simply a must visit for everyone
reading this.
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