BANFF
FOREVER
Banff is known for wild splendour, but Jody Robbins finds getting back to nature with kids is easy, even smack-dab in the Canadian Rockies
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evening excursions to a range of habitats that best showcase the animals currently active. Tours are free for under-fives, and older kids will leave with a much deeper understanding of the animals which live in the park and their relationship to this extraordinary environment. Of course, families flock to Banff for its boundless beauty and easy access to outdoor adventures, but hiking with kids can test even the most serene parent’s patience. Luckily Banff National Park has easy hikes too, which are definitely your best bet for a stress-free ramble. None other than Lonely Planet ranked Sunshine Meadows the Number 1. hike in Canada, and it’s not difficult to see why. These meadows straddle the Continental Divide between Alberta and British Adventures operates the Sunshine Meadows Alpine Shuttle, from late June until early October. You can take a guided tour with them or go it alone by catching the Sunshine Village Ski Resort gondola to Sunshine Village and starting the hike from there. Tunnel Mountain Summit Trail is another popular hike for families, and you can’t beat its proximity to town. This is a good option if you’re not an experienced hiker or you’re pressed for time since it’s only a 2.5 km trek. However, short doesn’t mean less spectacular, as the trail has sublime views of the townsite, the Bow River, and Vermillion Lakes, plus, as far as most kids are concerned there’s nothing like the rush of climbing a “real” mountain. Columbia, and the region is rife with one jaw-dropping view after the next. Come summer, a kaleidoscope of wildflowers is on display and that’s when White Mountain
omprised of towering peaks, turquoise- coloured lakes and over 1,000 glaciers, Banff National Park is the first of Canada’s National Parks and the
third oldest protected park in the world. Yet, beyond its postcard-perfect scenery, the charming town of Banff boasts an array of family- friendly activities and places to stay, making it an easy holiday choice for those seeking adventure and calming experiences in the great outdoors. The Canadian Rockies are most definitely where the wild things are. The forests are heavily populated with elk, deer, moose, and wolves, and it’s not just skiers who love these alpine peaks and meadows: one of the best spots to view grizzlies in their natural environment is at Lake Louise Ski
Resort. In fact, the presence of bears and other potentially dangerous wildlife in Banff National Park, means it’s always a good idea to carry bear spray when you’re hiking. And if aren’t taking a
“FAMILIES FLOCK TO BANFF FOR ITS BEAUTY”
guided tour, remember to check in at a Parks Canada Visitor Centre before heading off into the mountains. That said, you can also safely spot grizzlies foraging for food from the sightseeing gondola, as it whisks you to the Wildlife Interpretive Centre at the top of the mountain. Once there, take advantage of complimentary programs led by Interpretive Guides to learn more about the wildlife and natural wonders that flourish in this area. Then after, you can stroll around the summit on various hiking trails or opt for a guided walk. Although families actively looking for a wild animal encounter, but not sure where to start, can take a wildlife safari. Discover Banff Tours leads
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