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LAKE LOUISE

Alberta | Canada

300C DESTINATION FEATURE: Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada

LAKE LOUISE VILLAGE doesn’t amount to much, but it’s an essential supply stop, with more or less everything you need in terms of food and shelter (at a price). Most of it centres round a single mall, Samson Mall, and car park, with a smart youth hostel and a few outlying motels dotted along the service road to the north. There’s almost nothing to do in the village, and unless you have a vehicle to take you to the lakes (or rent a bike) you’re likely to be bored. The impressive Lake Louise Information Centre , a few steps from the car park, offers not only information but also high-tech natural-history exhibits (daily: mid-June to early Sept 8am-8pm; early Sept to late Sept & early to mid-June 8am-6pm; Oct-May 9am-4pm; tel 522-3833). Almost as useful is the excellent Woodruff and Blum bookshop (tel 522-3842) in the mall, which has a full range of maps, guides and background reading. A couple of doors down, Wilson Mountain Sports (tel 522-3636) is good for bike rental (from $8-12 per hour, $29-45 a day), rollerblade rentals (from $5-8 per hour), fishing tackle for sale or rent (fly rod $11, spin rod $7 and waders $10) and equipment rental (stoves $7, pack $9 and tent $19). They’ll also fill you in on the possiblity of canoe rentals for trips downstream on the Bow River to Banff.

A short way from the village, the Lake Louise Gondola (the “Friendly Giant”) runs thirteen minutes to 2042m, partway up Mount Whitehorn (2669m). To reach it, pick up the free shuttle which operates from some village hotels or return to and cross over the Trans-Canada, and follow the road towards the ski area; the gondola is signed left after about 1km (daily: June 8.30am-6pm; July-Aug 8am-6pm; Sept 8.30am-6pm; $13.95; tel 522-3555). Depending on your susceptibility to either vertigo or claustrophobia you can choose between enclosed gondola cars, open chairs, or chairs with bubble domes. At the top (2034m) are the usual sensational views – rated some of the best in the Rockies – a self-service restaurant, sun decks, picnic areas, souvenir shops and several trailheads through the woods and meadows. One track takes you to the summit of Mount Whitehorn, a stiff 600m above the gondola station.

TRANSPORT AND FACILITIES

Four Greyhound buses a day ($8) link Banff and Lake Louise (50min) and stop in the Samson Mall car park at the little office known as The Depot (tel 522-2080); three continue to Vancouver and the west. Four buses a day return from Lake Louise to Banff and Calgary. Laidlaw (tel 762-9102 or 1-800/661-4946) run one bus daily ($8) and Brewster Transportation (tel 762-6700) three buses a day from Banff ($11), and also continue to the Chateau Lake Louise (a good way to get up here if you’re without transport – you can walk back down to the village). Note that there are also direct Brewster and other connections to and from Lake Louise and Calgary airport . Brewster also run one daily service to Jasper from Lake Louise village and lake ($44; departs Samson Mall at 4.15pm) as well as bus tours on the Icefields Parkway (8hr one-way; $82, $112 return excluding accommodation in Jasper). If you need a taxi to ferry you to the lakes, call Lake Louise Taxi & Tours (tel 522-2020). The only car-rental agenc y is National at The Depot (tel 522-3870), but you’re better off renting in Banff or elsewhere as their cars go quickly.

The Samson Mall takes care of most practical considerations including a post office (daily 6.30am-7pm; tel 522-3870). Behind The Depot, which doubles up as a bag storage and booking office for coach tours and river-rafting trips, are a laundrette (tel 522-2143) and (downstairs) public washrooms with showers. The general store is good and has a money exchange . There’s also a currency exchange at the Chateau Lake Louise hotel . For the police , call 522-3811. The nearest hospital is in Banff.

Excellent basic food – snacks and coffee – can be had at the always busy Laggan’s Mountain Bakery (daily 6am-7pm) on the corner of the mall opposite the general store. For something more substantial than snacks, wander to the relaxed and reasonably priced Bill Peyto’s CafÃƒÂ© for full and varied meals (daily 7am-9pm; tel 522-2200), within the youth hostel but open to all; in summer the nice outdoor eating area makes a good place to meet people. The unique Lake Louise Station Restaurant (tel 522-2600) is housed in the restored 1909 station building – choose between hearty Canadian fare in the informal station building (garden dining in summer) and the more formal and expensive restored railway-dining carriages. Some of the best (and pricier) meals can be found in the Post Hotel (daily 7am-2pm & 5-9.30pm; tel 522-3989) – reservations are essential for dinner. The best local’s hangout is the hotel’s Outpost Pub (tel 522-3989), a snug bar that serves light meals from late afternoon. Other good drinking spots include the Lake Louise Bar and Grill (tel 522-3879) upstairs in the mall, and the lively Explorers Lounge (tel 522-3791) in the Lake Louise Inn , 210 Village Rd.

ACTIVITIES

As for activities , most operators – especially rafting companies – are based in Banff or elsewhere , though many offer pick-ups in Lake Louise, typically with a $10 add-on to their listed Banff prices; a handful operate trips directly out of Lake Louise itself. Companies actually based in or near the village include Wild Water Adventures (tel 678-5058, 522-2211 or 1-888/771-9453) who run half- or full-day white-water rafting trips on the Kicking Horse River in nearby Yoho National Park (half-day trips at 8.30am and 1.30pm, from $69). If you don’t want to hike alone, or wish to know more about what you’re walking past, the national park and Friends of Banff run guided walks three or four times a week in July and August: the Lake Louise Lakeshore Stroll (Mon & Fri 10am; 2hr) and the Plain of the Six Glaciers (Tues, Thurs & Sun 9am; 6hr; $12). Drop by the visitor centre’s Friends of Banff store to confirm latest timings and to reserve a place (do so in good time – the walks are popular) or call 522-3833. Cyclists can rent bikes from Wilson Mountain Sports in the mall , or sign up for cycling tours (from $55 for half a day, $85 full day) and transfers that’ll take you up to Bow Summit on the Icefields Parkway so you can pedal downhill or freewheel all the way back to Lake Louise. Serious canoeists can rent canoes from Wilson for trips on the Bow River, while more sedate paddlers can rent canoes and kayaks (daily in summer 10am-7pm; $30 per hour) at Chateau Lake Louise to dabble on Lake Louise itself (tel 522-3511).

Good trout fishing is possible on the Bow River between Lake Louise and Banff, with support and advice available at the Castle Mountain Chalets on the Bow Valley Parkway . Rental equipment is again on offer at Wilson Mountain Sports. Compulsory fishing permits ($6 weekly) are available from the visitor centre. If you fancy horse riding , contact Brewster Lake Louise Stables at the Chateau Lake Louise hotel (tel 522-3511 ext 1210, or 762-5454) and enquire about their ninety-minute trips along the shores of Lake Louise ($45), half-day tours ($60) to the Lake Agnes or Plain of the Six Glaciers or full-day treks to Paradise Valley and Horseshoe Glacier ($120 including lunch). Timberline Tours (tel 522-3743) run similar if slightly cheaper treks from the Lake Louise Corral behind the Deer Lodge hotel; all-day trips to the Skoki Valley east of Lake Louise; one- and three-hour trips at Bow Lake on the Icefields Parkway from the Num-Ti-Jah Lodge .

The Rocky Mountains rise majestically throughout Banff Nation
al Park, making the whole area a place of spectacular beauty. Nestled in the heart of this premier Canadian wilderness reserve are the communities of Banff and Lake Louise. As Canada’s largest ski area, Lake Louise offers skiers and snow boarders unlimited possibilities. With over 11 square miles of terrain spread across four mountain faces, Lake Louise provides a choice of more than 100 named runs, as well as thousands of acres of wide open bowls. Featuring some of North America’s most exciting terrain, it is also skier- friendly with a green, or easy run, from every chairlift on the mountain. Tied together with a system of 11 interconnecting lifts, Lake Louise is hard to beat. With an abundant amount of natural snow (15 feet in the bowls), backed up by Canada’s largest snowmaking system, Lake Louise guarantees skiing from early November to mid May. With dozens of long protected tree lined runs, and 65% of the terrain below the tree line, you can ski at Lake Louise even when it is snowing.

The area has been welcoming international visitors for more than a century. In 1883 the attempts of three Canadian Pacific Railway workers to stake a claim to the natural hot springs they had discovered bubbling from the base of Sulphur Mountain led to the establishment of Canada’s first national park. Today, Banff National Park is one of four adjoining mountain parks comprising more than 5200 square miles of spectacular Canadian Rocky Mountain landscape. For current visitors, bathing in the same hot springs is one of many activities offered in Banff National Park. If you visit the Banff/Lake Louise area you will quickly see why each year more than 3.5 million visitors travel there from all over the world to enjoy the unique experience of the Canadian Rockies.

At Lake Louise, there a lower village with a wide choice of fine dining, first class accommodations and shopping. Up the hill, the Chateau Lake Louise presents lakeside views of the towering Victoria Glacier amid old world charm and elegance against the backdrop of the Canadian wilderness.

The lower village of Lake Louise is south of the Trans-Canada Highway in the Bow River valley. Next to the Samson Mall at the entrance to the village, is the Lake Louise Visitor Center, featuring exhibits on the history of the area. The center also provides current information on trails and activities.

The Lake Louise trails are busy in summer, and provide a good introduction to the local scenery. They are well worn and well marked, so that the hiker doesn’t need to be a skilled map reader. The two most popular trails end at mountain chalets which serve tea.

Skiing started at Lake Louise in the 1920s. The first chalet was built in 1930, the first lift in 1954. The resort’s real birth can be dated to 1958, when a wealthy Englishman, Norman Watson, invested a large part of his inheritance in building a gondola up Mount Whitehorn. Further lifts and other developments followed. More would have materialized had it not been for environmental concerns. Further protests forestalled a bid for the 1968 Winter Olympics and put an end to a plan for a 6500-bed mega-resort in 1972. Even so, the resort has experienced environmentally responsible, steady growth, and now regularly hosts World Cup skiing events in spite of the extremely low temperatures during January and February.

The ski area divides into four distinct faces, served by two express quad chairs, one regular quad chair, two triple chairs, three double chairs, a T-bar, a platter lift and a children’s tow rope. The vast terrain (some of the bowls are the size of entire European resorts) is divided as follows: Novice 25%, Intermediate 45% and Expert 30 %.

The top elevation is 7900 feet, giving a 3000 ft. drop to the base elevation at 4900 ft. One day lift tickets are available, but the three day Ski Banff/Lake Louise area pass is a much better buy. It allows six days of skiing in Lake Louise, Mount Norquay and Sunshine Village. Facilities in the ski area include three day lodges, each of which has a restaurant and bar, a ski school, ski shop, rental shop, day care center and lockers.

Free shuttles run from Lake Louise, with transfers from Banff. Free tours of the mountain are also available three times daily.

Banff Mount Norquay, Sunshine Village, and Lake Louise are three world-class ski resorts, all within easy access of the towns that provide more than 7,558 acres and over 200 trails offering skiers and snowboarders of any ability countless challenges. From wide-open bowls and tree-lined glades covered with fresh, dry champagne powder, to meticulously groomed slopes and state-of-the-art snowmaking, visitors enjoy unspoiled scenery, short lift lines, and friendly hospitality.

Skiers and snowboarders can easily visit each ski area during their stay and then settle at the mountain that suits their style or choose a heli-ski excursion to find the untracked snow. Banff and Lake Louise present many options, numerous choices and the freedom to try them all.

Lake Louise General Information

Population:
Lake Louise: 500 (Banff/Lake Louise 7,600) (3.5 million visitors annually). Location and Description: Lake Louise is located in Banff National Park, northwest of Banff. It is about 1 1/2 miles long, up to 1970 feet wide and 69 feet deep. The Victoria glacier reaches down almost to its shore. At the eastern end of Lake Louise is Mount Victoria, which is about 11,385 feet in height. The waters of Lake Louise are turquoise to dark green in color.

Statistics for Lake Louise:

Vertical Drop:
3,250 feet

Skiable area:
4,200 acres

Number of Trails:
196 marked runs plus thousands of acres of open bowls: 20% Beginner, 55% Intermediate, 25% Expert

Base elevation:
5,400 feet

Snowfall:
144 inches

Snowmaking:
1,700 acres 100% natural snow

Lifts:
Total 28

Snowboarding:
Half-pipe and park
Cross-country trails

Elevation:
The highest point along the Icefields Parkway is Bow Summit at 6787 feet above sea level, while the elevation at the Village of Lake Louise is 5,033 feet above sea level.

Area:
46 square miles (Lake Louise) Banff National Park (2,564 sq. miles)

Time:
Mountain Standard Time zone, which is 7 hours behind Greenwich mean time and 2 hours behind Eastern Standard Time. Daylight Savings Time is in effect from the first Sunday in April until the last Sunday in October.

Average Temperatures (in Fahrenheit):

High Low
January – March 38 5
April – June 66 27
July – September 71 38
October – December 50 5

For trails report, please contact Parks Canada at (403) 762-1550

When to Go:
The weather in the Canadian Rockies is variable due to the high elevation and rugged topography. Cool, crisp air and warm days are typical of autumn. Warming Chinook winds can bring spring-like conditions in winter, and spring offers both skiing and golfing opportunities. The summer climate is pleasant with low humidity, warm temperatures and daylight hours stretching until 11:00 p.m. The relatively dry climate is responsible in winter for the consistency of the Canadian Rocky Mountain powder snow. The snow is world renowned as being dry and light with an average moisture content of only 7 percent. The average moisture content of snow in other North American and in European Ski Resorts, is typically at least 10 percent.

What To Wear:
Casual dress is the norm in Banff and Lake Louise. In summer, bring a raincoat, warm sweater, hat, sturdy shoes, sunscreen and sunglasses. In spring, summer and fall, a light coat or warm jacket may be required, particularly at higher altitudes. In winter, a heavy coat, winter boots, hat, gloves or mittens and warm clothing are essential.

Email retrieval:
Many hotels have dedicated telephone outlets in the rooms for internet access. Check with the hotel.

Electricity:
Adapters not required for US appliances.

Visitors with disabilities:
Canadian Paraplegic Association National Office provides information about accessibility in Canada. (613) 723-1033.

Telephones
The country code for Canada is 1.
Area Code: The province of Alberta has two area codes In the northern area which includes the cities of Edmonton and Jasper, the area code is (780). In the southern region (including Calgary/Banff/ Lake Louise the area code is (403).
For assistance from an operator, dial “0”.

International Calls:
International calls can be direct-dialed from most phones; dial 1, followed by the country code, the area code and then the number. The front pages of many local telephone directories include a list of overseas country codes. To have an operator assist you, dial “0” and ask for the overseas operator.

Public Holidays:
Jan. 1 New Year’s Day
March or April(varies) Good Friday
March or April(varies) Easter Monday
May (Third Monday) Victoria Day
July 1 Canada Day
August (First Monday) Civic Holiday
September (1st Monday) Labor Day
October (1st Monday) Thanksgiving Day
November 11 Remembrance Day
December 25 Christmas Day
December 26 Boxing Day

Government:
Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II is the Queen of Canada and Canada’s head of State. This means that the Queen is the formal head of Canada. The Governor General is the Queen’s representative in Canada. The Queen is also represented in each province by a Lieutenant Governor and by a Commissioner in the territories.

Useful Conversions of weights and measures:
1 hectare 2.471 acres
1 inch 2.54 cm
1 ft. 30.48 cm
1 oz. 28.57 grams
1 lb. 0.454 kg.
1 cm. 0.39 inches
1 meter 3.28 feet 1.09 yards
1 km. 0.62 miles
1 liter 0.26 US gallons
1 foot 0.39 meters
1 yard 0.91 meters
1 mile 1.60 km.
1 kg 2.21 lb.
1 gallon 3.78 liters

Currency:
The Canadian currency is in dollars. There are one dollar coins (called “loonies” because of the loon depicted on the gold colored coin); two dollar coins with a gold colored center and silver border ( called “toonies” because they are equal to 2 loonies); dime; nickel and penny. The paper currency comes in denominations of $5; $10; $20; $50; $100. The present exchange rate is between $1.42 and $1.50 Canadian for every US dollar. Rates vary widely depending on where money is exchanged. Banks give the best rate. The easiest method of securing cash at the best exchange rate is to make withdrawals using a US credit card from the ATM machines found at the major banks and stores. As in the US, some banks charge a fee and a transaction tax, so check with the banks to find the best value. Save remaining Canadian dollars for your next trip as the exchange rate to convert back into US money from Canadian is usually not favorable.

Customs and Duty-Free Allowance:
In Alberta, visitors to Canada may bring in free of duties a maximum of 1.5 litres of wines, 1.14 litres of liquor (40 oz.), or 24 355 ml cans or bottles (8.5 litres) of beer or ale, as long as they meet the minimum age of 18 years. Personal baggage can also include up to 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, 200 grams of manufactured tobacco, and 200 tobacco sticks. Visitors importing such items must be over 18 years of age.

Entry Regulations:
Residents of countries other than the USA must carry a valid passport. Visitors from some countries may also require a visa or other documentation. Please check with the nearest Canadian consulate well in advance of your departure. All visitors should carry proof of citizenship. For general enquiries please call the regional customs office at 902-426-2911.
USA citizens and permanent residents can cross the Canadian border either way without passports or visas. However 2 of any of the following pieces of identification are required to prove citizenship:
driver’s license
birth certificate
certificate of citizenship
certificate of naturalization

Metric
Everything in Canada is measured in metric units, though many stores use both metric and Imperial systems. Speed limits and distances are in kilometres. For example, within the Park the highway speed limit is 90 kilometres per hour (km/hr), equivalent to 55 miles per hour (mph).
With regard to temperatures, 20 degrees Celsius is about 68 degrees Fahrenheit;
30Ã‚Â°C is 80Ã‚Â°F; 10Ã‚Â°C is 50Ã‚Â°F; and 0Ã‚Â°C is 32Ã‚Â°F.
Gas is sold by the litre and there are 3.8 litres in a U.S. gallon.

Park Entry Fees:
An independent traveler day pass for up to seven people in a vehicle is $10 a day. There are also multi-park passes that allow entry to all national parks in Alberta and British Columbia For further information contact:
The Superintendent Banff National Park
PO Box 900 Banff, Alberta, Canada T0L 0C0
Tel (403) 762-1504

Goods and Services Tax
GST is a value-added tax similar to that used in many other countries. It is applied at time of purchase to a broad base of goods and services at a rate of 7%. Special features designed to minimize impact of GST on foreign visitors are in effect.

GST Rebates for Foreign Visitors:
Visitors may claim a full rebate on GST paid on goods which they take out of Canada within 60 days of purchase and on short term accommodation (less than 30 days per location). Claims can be made by submitting receipts. Forms and further information is available in Banff at F-1 Refund Serviced at (403) 760-3316 and at Custom House Currency Exchange
Unlike other provinces, Alberta has no provincial sales tax; however, a 5% provincial tax is charged on accommodation.

Tax Refund for Visitors to Canada
GST/HST
VISITOR REBATE PROGRAM
QUESTIONS and ANSWERS

Visitor Rebate Program
call toll free from anywhere in Canada
1-800-668-4748
>From outside Canada
(902) 432-5608

or write to:
Visitor Rebate Program
Summerside Tax Centre
Canada Customs and Revenue Agency
275 Pope Road, Suite 104
Summerside PE
C1N 6C6
Canada

Business Hours:
Many banks also have ATMs for 24-hour banking
Most stores are open Monday to Saturday from 9amto 5:30 or 6pm, with shorter hours on Sunday. Most restaurants serve lunch from about 11:30am to 2:30pm and dinner from 5:30 to 10pm. They sometimes serve later on weekends. Nightclubs and bars are open later.

Emergencies Telephone Numbers
Ambulance in Banff 911
Ambulance in Lake Louise 911
Fire in Banff 911
Fire in Lake Louise 911
Hospital/Banff 403-722-2222
Police – RCMP in Banff 403-762-2226
Police – RCMP in Lake Louise 403-522-3811
Warden’s Office/Emergency 403-762-4506
Crisis Line 1-800-332-1287
Poison Centre 1-800-332-1414

Currency
Visitors to Banff/Lake Louise are advised to use Canadian currency during their visit. For best rates, exchange money at Canadian Chartered Banks, Credit Union, or currency exchange outlets situated throughout Banff and Lake Louise. .Cash machines (ATM) are available for direct withdrawal of funds from your bank account. Major credit cards including VISA, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted by most establishments.

Airlines from around the world with frequent non-stop and direct flights.
Amsterdam 9.0 hrs Los Angeles 2.5 hrs
Chicago 3.0 hrs Minneapolis 2.5 hrs
Dallas 3.5 hrs New York 4.5 hrs
Denver 2.5 hrs San Francisco 2.5 hrs
Frankfurt 9.0 hrs Seattle 1.5 hrs
Glasgow 8.5 hrs Salt Lake City 1.5 hrs
Houston 4.5 hrs Toronto 3.5 hrs
London 8.5 hrs

Calgary International Airport
2000 Calgary Airport Road NE
Calgary, Alberta, T2E 6W5
Phone: (403) 735-1200
Fax: (403) 735-1281
Website: www.calgaryairport.com

Road
Banff townsite is 120 km (75 mi.) west of Calgary city limits and 16 km (10 mi.) west of Banff Park gate. To reach Banff, take the all-weather, four lane Trans-Canada Highway 1 Calgary to Banff driving time is under 90 minutes. Lake Louise is 58 km (35 mi.) west of Banff.

Distances from Banff
Lake Louise 37miles
Calgary 80 miles
Edmonton 249 miles
Jasper 180 miles
Kamloops 308 miles
Vancouver 530 miles
Waterton 244 miles
Glacier National Park (USA) 229 miles
Kalispell (USA) 305 miles
Spokane (USA) 373 miles
Seattle (USA) 656 miles

Airport Shuttle
Scheduled van and motorcoach service connects Banff and Lake Louise with Calgary Airport and downtown Calgary frequently throughout the day.
Contact:

Banff Airporter
Phone: (403) 762-3330 or
1-888-449-2901
Fax: (403) 762-1677

Brewster Airport Service
Phone:(403) 762-6767 or
1-800-661-1152
Fax: (403) 762-6750

Limousines or Sedans
Alpine Limousine 403-762-3929
Alpine Tours 403-762-5466
Banff Limousine 403-762-8400
Banff Taxi Tours and Limousine 403-762-5600
Canadian Co. Tours Inc. 403-762-5558

Greyhound:
Greyhound runs five times daily from Calgary (depot at 850 16th Street) tel. (403) 265-9111 to Banff.

Car Rentals
Rental cars are available in Calgary at the airport and other locations, including in Lake Louise.

Rocky Mountaineer Railtours
Sightseeing Tours
Phone: (604) 606-7245 or 1-800-665-7245
Rocky Mountaineer Railtours operates seasonal two-day sightseeing trips, May to October featuring the Canadian Rockies by daylight. Both eastbound trips from Vancouver and westbound trips from Calgary/Banff overnight in Kamloops, B.C.
Via Rail offers trips between Jasper and Vancouver and across Canada.

Via Rail
Toronto ~~Edmonton~~ Jasper – Vancouver
Phone: (506) 857-9830
Canada: 1-800-561-8630
USA: 1-800-561-3949

Lake Louise Attractions & Things To Do

Bow Valley Parkway
Also known as Hwy 1A, this 51 km (30.6 mi) route is a scenic alternative to the Trans-Canada Hwy between Banff and Lake Louise. There are peaceful picnic areas, short hikes and three lodges offering cabin accommodation and services for travelers. At Johnston Canyon, a self-guided tour takes you along Johnston Creek to two impressive waterfalls. It’s a 5.6 km (3.5 mi) hike to the Ink Pots, which has six cold water springs bubbling out of the ground. Access the parkway 7 km (4.3 mi) west of Banff and from the Lake Louise overpass.

Columbia Icefield
This massive field of ancient ice covers 125 sq mi. and reaches depths estimated at 385 m (1,270 ft). It is composed of the Athabasca, Stutfield and Dome glaciers. Straddling the Continental Divide, the icefield feeds four of the continent’s major river systems: the Columbia, Fraser, Mackenzie and Saskatchewan. Meltwaters from the icefield flow to three different oceans (the Pacific, Arctic and Atlantic). Called a ‘hydrological apex,’ it is one of only two in the world (the other is in Siberia). Markers at the icefield indicate the rate at which the toe of the Athabasca Glacier has receded this century. Tours of the glacier given on custom designed Sno coaches from April 20 to Oct 15, depart every 15 min. daily 9 am – 5 pm Admission charged. 762-6700. Ice-walk tours are also available mid-June to mid-Sept, book by calling 852-5595 or 1-800-565-7547. 125 km (75 mi).

The Icefields Parkway
between Lake Louise and Jasper is 230km of unsurpassed scenery. It is considered one of the greatest mountain drives in the world. The mountain peaks (often snowcapped) and many rivers, waterfalls, lakes, and above all the glaciers, make this drive a must for any visitor to the Alberta Rockies. Despite the rugged terrain, this is an excellent highway that makes for easy driving (except on occasion in winter). There are numerous viewing points along the route, and this are well signed with information on the immediate area. Often there are hiking trails leading off from these areas, and there are plenty of campsites, so it is possible to spend a number of days to take in the whole route.
The highlight of the Parkway is undoubtedly Columbia Icefields. There is a visitors center that explains the glacier, and it is possible to walk or take a trip by snocoach onto the glacier itself

Lake Louise Information Center
522-3833522-3833
a few steps from the parking area, offers not only information but also hi-tech natural history exhibits (daily: mid-June to early Sept 8am-8pm; early Sept to late Sept & mid-June 8am-6pm; Oct-May 9am-5pm.

Lake Louise Gondola
Lake Louise Gondola (the “Friendly Giant”) runs thirteen minutes to 2042m, partway up Mount Whitehorn (2669m). To reach it, take the free shuttle which operates from village hotels or return to and cross over the Trans-Canada Highway, and follow the road toward the ski area. Signs lead the way to the gondola. daily: mid-June to Aug 9am-9pm
early to mid-June & early to mid-Sept 9am-6pm; 522-3555
There is a choice of enclosed gondola cars, open chairs, or chairs with bubble domes. At the top (2034m) there is a sensational view: rated as one of the best in the Rockies as well as a self-service restaurant, sun decks, picnic areas, souvenir shops and several trailheads through the woods and meadows. One track takes you to the summit of Mount Whitehorn, 600m above the gondola station.

Banff

The Banff Center:
The Banff Centre began as a summer theatre school in 1933. Today, it is an internationally renowned cultural centre for the arts, providing resources and instruction to professional performing artists. The Banff Centre presents a number of events year-round, including music, dance, opera, theatre, films and lectures. Annual special events include the Banff Arts Festival, June through August, and the prestigious Banff Festival of Mountain Films in November.
For more information contact The Banff Centre, St. Julien Road, (403) 762-6300.

Canada Place
Canada Place is a centre where visitors of all ages can discover interactive displays which explore Canada’s natural and built historical heritage, as well as the events and people who shaped them. Admission to the Canada Place exhibit is free.

Kananaskis Country
Kananaskis, to the southwest of Banff National Park,or ‘K Country’ as it is known, is an unspoiled paradise. Full of picture perfect mountain scenery, wildlife and flora, Kananaskis Country can be visited at any time of the year. There are excellent cross-country skiing trails, which become excellent hiking trails in the spring. There is also an excellent golf course.

Banff Park Museum
(403) 762-1558, ext. 4295.
91 Banff Avenue
Daily 10-6 (June-Sept.) Call for hours rest of the year.
Learn about local wildlife in turn-of-the-century style. This rustic building is Western Canada’s oldest natural history museum, with wildlife specimens dating back to the 1860’s. A National Historic Site, the museum also houses a comfortable reading room and a hands-on Discovery Room for children.

Cascade Gardens
The gardens circle the park’s administration building.
Admission free.
The beautiful, fragrant Cascade Gardens at the Banff National Park Administration Building are a summer highlight. Ponds and cascading water add special interest to this lovely spot, making it a popular setting for photographs.

Cave and Basin National Historic Site
311 Cave Avenue
403-762-1557.
Visit the birthplace of Banff National Park at this historic site. See the cave, the subterranean spring discovered in 1883, and the basin, the natural pool with a replica of the original bathhouse built in 1886, where the film “Steam, Schemes and National Dreams” was produced. Upstairs, find interactive exhibits or walk the scenic boardwalks onto the marsh, an ecosystem of unusual plants, animals, birds and fish.

Luxton Museum
403-762-2388.
Journey back in time to the days before Europeans arrived and experience the rich culture of the Natives of the Northern Plains and Canadian Rockies. Lifesized scenes featuring ornamental costumes, teepees, and other artifacts depict Native arts and daily life.

Natural History Museum
112 Banff Avenue
(403) 762-4747.
Daily 10-6. 1-5 after September
The Natural History Museum traces the geological evolution of the Rockies. There are displays of rocks and minerals, fossils and dinosaur bones, flowers and plants, a film on the eruption of Mt St Helens, and a life sized model of “Big Foot,” the legendary giant ape said to live in remote mountain regions.

Walter Philips Gallery
(403) 762-6281
In Glyde Hall at the junction of Mountain Dr. and St. Julien Rd.
The Walter Phillips Gallery presents the latest in contemporary art, with exhibitions by national and international artists investigating the issues and ideas of our time. The gallery maintains a permanent collection and organizes nine shows of art, video screenings, lectures and performances every year. Media include ceramics, textiles, printmaking, sculpture, and painting.

Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies
(403) 762-2291
111 Bear Street, Banff
Admission charged.
Daily 10-5
Discover the spirit of the wilderness in the heart of Banff. The Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies houses four art galleries, exhibiting works of contemporary and historic art, often incorporating a mountain theme; a heritage collection of artifacts, archives, museum shop and six heritage homes on its grounds. The museum hosts a regular program of talks, slide shows and discussions.

Movie Theaters
The Lux Cinema has four movie theatres showing the latest first-run features. Located at the corner of Bear and Wolf Streets in Banff. Call the 24 hour cinema line at (403) 762-8595.

Performing Arts
The cultural heart of Banff and the Canadian Rockies, the Banff Centre presents year-round performances and exhibitions, concerts, and events in the visual and performing arts. The Banff Centre for the Arts has for over 60 years been a major training centre for musicians, artists and writers.
In summer, the Banff Arts Festival is presented annually from May to August. The Festival is a celebration of talent featuring performances and exhibitions by the Centre for the Arts participants and guest artists in music, opera, drama, dance, jazz, vocal, writing and visual arts programs.
During the winter months, The Banff Centre offers top-notch music concerts, music theatre performances and inter-arts events.
The popular Playbill Series features a variety of entertainment by well-known touring performers.
Other Banff Centre events include the Banff Festival of Mountain Films (November), the Banff Mountain Book Festival (November) and the Banff International String Quartet Competition (every third April). The Walter Phillips Gallery holds exhibitions of contemporary art, with works by guest artists, participants of the Centre for the Arts, and touring shows.

Entertainment

There are many ways to experience the natural glory of Banff National Park. In summer the visitor can walk along the park’s many nature trails, hike into the backcountry or climb peaks made famous by early visitors who helped fill in the map of the Rockies a century ago. In winter participate on canyon icewalks, take a horse-drawn sleigh ride, or fly across the snow in a dog sled. Banff and Lake Louise are most tranquil in the in-between seasons of spring and late fall. All museums and cultural attractions remain open during the off season.

Call Lake Louise Information Center*
403-383-3522

Banff / Lake Louise Tourism Bureau
P.O. Box 1298, Banff, Alberta, T0L 0C0, Canada
Telephone (403) 762-8421
Fax: (403) 762-8163
for further information about any of the following:

Airplane Tours
Air tour companies offer year round guided air tours of the Canadian Rockies and Columbia Mountains.

Pool
Many of the local pubs and taverns offer visitors the opportunity to ‘rack ‘em up’. A great way to relax after a long day in the backcountry or on the slopes.

Boat Tours
Lake Minnewanka, located 15 miles northeast of the town of Banff, off the TransCanada Highway. Your cruise on beautiful Lake Minnewanka to the famed Devil’s Gap will be the highlight of your trip to Banff and the Canadian Rockies. You will be welcomed aboard for 1 1/2 hour fully narrated tour of some of the most spectacular scenery found anywhere. Sixteen foot boats with outboard motors can be rented for fishing from mid-May to Labor Day.

Bowling
There are four five-pin bowling lanes located at the Banff Springs Conference Centre.

Dogsledding
The warmest and most comfortable way to enjoy and photograph the Canadian Rocky Mountains in their spectacular winter setting is to do it from a sled pulled through the forest by a team of huskies. Tours can last between 2 – 10 hours including traditional mountain snacks and refreshments to re-fuel you for the ride ahead.

Downhill Skiing
Lake Louise
Lake Louise ranks with the finest resorts in the world. This terrain, spread over four separate mountain faces, is interconnected by a lift and trail system that is comparable to the European “ski circuit” concept.

Banff Mount Norquay
The area’s oldest resort, Mount Norquay has been totally re-designed and expanded to world-class standards.

Sunshine Village
This alpine resort receives more than 30 feet of 100% natural snow every year and has one of North America’s longest ski seasons (mid-November to mid-May).

Fishing
The famed Bow River (open year round), as well as numerous lakes and streams in and around Banff National Park are home to an abundance of fish species that attract Fly and Spin fisherman from all over the world. There are several stores that can outfit you with the necessary equipment and licenses for you to fish at your leisureSummertime also offers the opportunity to rent small motorised boats on Lake Minnewanka, with or without a guide.

Golf
Teeing-off against the backdrop of dramatic mountain ranges with local wildlife standing by, is available at several courses in our area. As well as 9 & 18 hole world-class golf courses, there are also companies that can arrange tee-times and transport to a number of courses in the area.

Helicopter Skiing
The helicopter can deliver you to the top of a remote mountain and pick you up at the bottom after an exhilarating run down untouched powder.

Helicopter Sightseeing
Fly over magnificent mountain landscapes on a helicopter sightseeing tour of Banff National Park offered year round In winter enjoy an afternoon sightseeing tours in Panorama, British Columbia.

Heli-Hiking
Experience the back country via helicopter! The helicopter can deliver you to a remote site for an half-day stroll up to a week long adventure. Sightseeing from the air is the best way to really gain perspective on the grandeur of the Rockies.

Hiking/Snowshoeing Cross-Country/Nature Tours /Hiking
One of the best ways to really get to know the national parks… Explore them on foot! Over 1,000 kilometres of hiking trails, rated from novice to expert await you in the park.

Cross-Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing in the Canadian Rockies can be anything and everything you’ve ever dreamed of. Every trail, every hill and every corner offers a new incredible view of the mountains. The Banff National Park and the surrounding areas offer a vast network of cross-country skiing trails. Try the smooth tracks of the nearby Canmore Nordic Centre, or gentle touring trails throughout the park.

Snowshoeing
Explore the magnificent natural world of the Rockies in a truly Canadian way, on snowshoes!

Horseback Riding
Experience the real west, for an hour, a day, or a week. See wildlife in the splendid scenery of Banff’s back country, enjoy fishing, or delight in sensational photography. Relax, and savor the breathtaking Rockies from horseback.

Carriage & Sleigh Rides
Weather permitting, horse-drawn carriage rides are available for tours around the Banff town site. In winter months, enjoy a sleigh ride (approximately 45 to 60 minute) excursion to the end of majestic Lake Louise. In Banff, sleigh rides along (or on) the Bow River are available weather and snow conditions permitting.

Hot Springs & Spa
Hot springs were once considered therapeutic, the waters are now appreciated for their relaxing effect; the temperature is about 104 degrees (40 degrees Celsius). It’s the perfect way to finish a day.

Mountaineering/Climbing/Hiking
Training programs are offered for beginners, intermediates and experts in the disciplines of rock and ice climbing, mountaineering, outdoor leadership, avalanche awareness and ski mountaineering.

Shopping

Note: There are strict limits on the export of objects more than 50 years old and of historic, cultural or scientific significance. For further information contact: The Secretary, Canadian Cultural Property Export Review Board Dept. of Communications Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A OC8

Commercial Galleries & Shops

Banff Indian Trading Post
For nearly a century the Banff Indian Trading Post has provided an outlet for the Stoney Indians of Morely to sell their handicrafts. Today, the selection has been expanded to include true native artworks from tribes across Canada. Contact (403) 762-2456.

Canada House
Dealing exclusively in Canadian art for over 27 years, this tranquil gallery features an extensive selection of Canadian landscape, wildlife, contemporary, Native and Inuit paintings, sculpture, folk art, and jewellery. Friendly and knowledgeable staff are on hand, and we ship worldwide and guarantee safe arrival. Contact 1-800-419-1298.

Gallery at the Springs
Mountain art by Canadian artists, with an emphasis on works by artists living and working in the Bow Valley. Contact (403) 762-8736.

Northern Art Impression
Featuring Eskimo and Indian Art. Contact (403) 522-2038.

Quest for Handcrafts
Canadian crafts and art in a variety of media. Contact (403) 762-2722.

Sedna Art Gallery
Featuring Inuit sculptures and Native paintings. Contact (403) 760-8676.

Art of Man Gallery
Original works by renowned Canadian artists including Inuit, Iroquois and Cree sculptors and painters. Bronze sculptures by V Zach, C Danyluk and R Parsons. Nephrite jade sculptures by Lyle Sopel. Pottery by Stephen and Leigh Smith. West coast native art including tribal masks and totems. 9 am-9 pm winter, till 11 pm in summer.
1 403 522-3684
Main floor, Chateau Lake Louise.

Images of the North Gallery
One of a kind wall art, Inuit sculptures and jewellery. Exotic stones, Alberta ammolite and beautifully presented fossils.
1 403 522-3699
Lower lobby, Chateau Lake Louise

Clothing

Great Northern Trading Co.
Beautiful made-in-Calgary jackets, vests and shirts incorporate southwestern and northern Canadian motifs. Deerskin handbags and fringed jackets, Cowichan-style hand-knit sweaters, Polo sportswear, polar fleece, Australian Ouck outerwear, moccasins and T and sweatshirts for adults and kids. Indian handcrafts, carved decoys, masks and totem poles, jewelry and Canadian foods.
403 762-4166
Moraine Lake Lodge near Lake Louise (May-Octand Town Centre, 201 Banff Ave, Banff Alberta T0L 0C0

Qiviuk
Fine clothing made with Qiviuk, a Canadian fiber that is softer than cashmere from the inner insulating down of the Arctic Muskox.
403 522-2622
Chateau Lake Louise,

Saitoh
Quality leather jackets as well as sweaters by such names as Valentine. Featured is Merino wool—so light and soft you can wear it next to your skin. Canadian and European designed fur coats, jackets and accessories by Grosvenor and others. Fur-knit jackets, scarves, ties, belts, leather bags and souvenirs.
1 403 522-3848
115 Banff Ave, 762-8858,; Chateau Lake Louise, Banff Alberta T0L 0C0

The Shirt Company
Canadian-made sportswear, sweatshirts, T-shirts and turtlenecks for men, women, and children offer comfort, durability and the latest styles and colours. Shirts are embroidered and screened with exclusive designs by area artists depicting Canada and the Rocky Mountains. Inks used for silk-screening are cured to prevent fading. Lake Louise Samson Mall, 522-3505, Chateau Lk Louise, 522-3985

Sports Outfitters

Monod Sports
Banff’s most established outdoor retailer (Est 1949). Owned and operated by the Monod brothers, former National Ski Team members and Canadian champions. Huge selection of outdoor wear and casual clothing (The North Face, Marmot, Patagonia, Dale of Norway, Woolrich, Timberland), and ski and mountaineering equipment. Large selection of Gore-Tex technical outerwear. Demo or buy the latest skis from Rossignol, Volkl, Salomon and Atomic. Guaranteed low prices.
1 403 762-4571
129 Banff Ave, Banff Alberta
Other Locations:
Chateau Lake Louise, Tel:1 403 522-3837
Banff Mount Norquay Tel:1 403 762-8208

Wilson Mountain Sports
Largest sport shop in Lake Louise. Skiing and boarding gear by Salomon, Nordica, Rossignol, Head, Tyrolia, Burton, Option and Ride. On-slope apparel, fleece and Gore-Tex by Sierra Designs, Patagonia, Columbia, Rip Zone and West Beach. Brand name ski and board rentals and demos ;X-country ski, snowshoe, skate and ski suit rentals. Ski and snowboard repairs using a new Winterstieger Micro 91 ski tune machine. Daily 8 am-8 pm. 403 522-3636
Lake Louise Samson Mall, Lake Louise Alberta

Wilson Mountain Sports (522-3636) supplies bike rentals, rollerblade rentals fishing tackle for sale or rent (fly rod , spin rod and waders ) and equipment rental (stoves, pack and tent). They will have information on the availability of canoe rentals for trips downstream on the Bow River to Banff.

Lake Louise Samson Mall
At one location are 18 retail and restaurant outlets—gift stores, clothing shops, sports store, art gallery, bookseller and photography store. Rent a car, arrange a sightseeing excursion, do your banking and laundry, and purchase groceries, liquor, sweets and baked goods.
Woodruff and Blum bookshop (522-3842) in the mall, which has a full range of maps, guides and background reading.
Food outlets include take-out chicken and pizza, a small cafÃƒÂ©, and a family restaurant with adjacent bar. The mall is next to the Lake Louise Information Centre, Village Rd and Lake Louise Dr, just off the Trans-Canada Hwy. Plenty of on-site parking.
(403) 522-2017 Fax: (403) 522-3299

Sports

Call Lake Louise Information Center
403-383-3522