Banff/Lake Louise

Going next week for a week with DH's family.

I have been to Banff for my bro's wedding, 7 years ago... but, was just doing wedding stuff and didn't get out much...

Anyone been there recently with tips on things to do, etc.?

Re: Banff/Lake Louise

My DH and I Just went to Banff early this month. It was gorgeous and the weather while we were there was amazing.

For a day trip we went to the Columbia Icefields. Really cool experience walking on a 1000 + year old glacier. It was 30 degrees up there on July 1st!

We did a lot of hiking around our hotel ( The Fairmont) and saw lots of animals. The ground squirrels are too adorable.

Banff town is really nice and we had a great meal at a wine bar there. Can get you the name if you are interested.

Hope you have a great trip!

Re: Banff/Lake Louise

thanks-- We are staying at the Fairmont in both places as well. It will actually be my second time there in Banff, since that is where my bro got married.

I'd love the name of the wine bar-- even though I can't drink-- everyone else will!

What's the walking/hike like at the Icefields-- do you need special shoes? I am trying to figure out what the hell to pack. It's like early Fall there now!

Re: Banff/Lake Louise

What a gorgeous place to get married! It's such a nice hotel and the views are spectacular!

There are at least 2 ways to do the icefields. You can do a serious hike. Starting at the bottom and working your way up. Not sure what your fitness level is but if your are reasonably fit it would be a fun workout. You can also get up there by ice bus which is this weird truck that kinda looks like it would work well on the moon.

Cafe Soleil is the wine bar / restaurant. Had a really good filet here and for your traveling companions the wine was very tasty

The weather should be nice for next week according to weather.com. It gets really chilly at night but during the day it can get very warm if the sun is out. The air is so thin and the sun is up for so long it makes it hot

ETA: ALSO! If you have a day to just lie around pay the 70 bucks or so to hang out in the spa! There is this wonderful mineral pool and a really nice lounge area and private outdoor seating.

Message edited 7/28/2008 1:44:42 PM.