A journey through the eyes of travel enthusiasts
Welcome to Travelogue - Our Blog, a digital haven where stories spring to life through vivid narrations of our passionate team of travel enthusiasts. Here, we chronicle our journeys, each one an enchanting tale of joy, discovery, and cultural immersion in some of the world's most beautiful and iconic locations. We will share them with you thru statements, photos and videos. It is our sincerest hope that you will like our stories as we aim to inspire lives and enliven spirits.
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Now is the best time to visit Banff in Alberta, CA
There’s just close to 2 months to enjoy spring this year which ends on June 21. That said, it goes without saying Plan now!
While it's been said that Alberta in Canada is notably cold, nonetheless now indeed is the best time to visit Alberta. It's the season when snow capped mountains begin to thaw; when wildlife emerges from hibernation; when native flowers evoke their initial beauty.
Banff and Canmore
Banff and Canmore provide visitors with a thrilling experience. Approaching from Calgary or Edmonton by car or shuttle, one is immediately greeted by the impressive view of the snow-capped mountains that will certainly set your adrenaline pumping. Although Banff is more popular nonetheless, Canmore should not be left out. Afterall, it is a mere 20 mins. drive to Banff; it also has lower hotel rates and more parking space. Canmore is home to the Geoscience Center, The Canmore Museum and finally the Rat's Nest Cave - an extraordinary experience that involves crawling, squeezing, rapelling and even swimming thru chambers and narrow passageways; on cold (year round ave. temp of 5 deg.Celsius) amid dark environment. Guests are provided with headlamps and climbing gears. It is an exprience for agile and more adventurous individuals. Coverage takes 2-4 hrs. depending on one's preference. Entrance fees are provided at the center with no advanced bookings. Canmore Cave Tours have exclusive rights to the management of Rat's Cave Nest They offer virtual experience tour to give would-be visitors a glimpse of the tour.
On the other hand, Banff’s streets are lined with souvenir shops, cafes, restaurants and not to mention, a popular ice cream shop! (haha what a treat) One could write a thousand words but Banff is best described in pictures. (Below)
In some of the boutiques you can also shop for Ammolite jewelry – an organic gemstone found exclusively in the Rocky Mountain’s east side. It is a rare gemstone created by fossilzed shells of ancient Ammonites. Thus Ammolite jewelery is not only a stunning play of colors, it is also a reflection of 70 million years of natural transformation and history. In March 17, 2022 the Alberta government designated Ammolite as the province's official gemstone. It symbolizes Alberta's rich cultural heritage that has a lasting impact on the world of exquisite gemstones. "Ammolite is an important part of our heritage and economy. Recognizing Ammolite as Alberta's offiicial gemstone reflects the unique nature of the stone and of our province." Ron Orr, former Minister of Culture, Government of Alberta
Outside of the Banff townsite is where more exciting and memorable experiences unfold .
Lake Louise is an idyllic, picture-perfect site. Celebrities, influencers and many tourists come here not just for sightseeings, selfies or groupies but also for photo shoots and infomercials. The place is truly beyond words. (Photos below)
Moraine Lake
Of equal beauty and splendor is the Moraine Lake. Separated by a mere 14 kms. Moraine Lake shares the emerald waters of Lake Louise and the gorgeous mountains sorrounding them. Due to ongoing roadworks, vehicular traffic is restricted at this time until the start of summer. There is however shuttle buses that will take visitors to the famed lake.
* Starting June 6, take an exhilarating ride on the Lake Louise Summer Gondola over Banff National Park’s most scenic and wildlife-rich corridors, where grizzly bears and other animals are often spotted roaming below. Once at the top, hit the hiking trails to discover perfect vantage points for capturing the best views of Lake Louise and the surrounding mountain peaks. Please note that the hiking trails will open as soon as conditions allow. *parks.canada.ca
Banff Townsite
From simply being bedazled by the scenic waters of Lake Louis and the sorrounding mountains, to trail hiking along the valleys and slopes, your Banff adventure is a tale that will last a lifetime
Founded in 1885 the Banff National Park is Canada's first National Park.
Rocky Mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and adventure come together in Banff National Park - Canada’s first national park and the flagship of the nation’s park system. Banff is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site.
*parks.canada.ca
The Columbia Glacier Icefield Skywalk
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Rocky Mountains like never before at the Columbia Icefield Skywalk. Suspended about 918 ft. above the stunning Sunwapta Valley, this architectural masterpiece offers unparalleled views of the rugged cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and ancient glaciers below and beautiful places like Bow Lake and Athabasca. Thus, whether you're just gazing at the panoramic mountain vistas or peering through the glass floor to the Sunwapta valley beneath, the Skywalk provides a unique connection to the awe-inspiring natural world around you as well as other tourists
Located next to the Columbia Icefield, It straddes between Banff and Jasper National Parks and accessible through Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) - considered as one of the most stunning highways of the world.
While journeying to the Columbian Icefield Skywalk is an enthralling experience, It is also a learning opportunity. Lining the skywalk are interpretive displays depicting the geology, ecology, biology and aboriginal history of the glacial region.
A visit to this unique site is more than just sightseeing—it's an unforgettable journey into the heart of Canada's pristine wilderness.
For a fee of $129. per adult, (age16 and up) and $83.85 from ages 6-15 as toddlers age 6 below are free - guests are treated to a 1Km walk - from one end to the other and unto a 400 meter glass platform while listening to a handheld audio guide which is interpreted in various languages. While going thru the Glacier Icefield Skywalk is a thrilling experience; that is, standing beyond and over the edge of the mountain, it is also a learning opportunity. Posted beside the railings, are interactive displays and audio commentaries. In this unforgettable tour, visitors take a 1-hour interpretive walkway across fossis, waterfall views, stunning glaciers and interactive exhibits. Additionally, roving interpretive guides are available for quick assistance and additional information. For as long as anyone desires to stay longer, but not beyond the last departing transport coach at 4:00 P.M. guests can linger to their heart's delight and gaze at birds flying below and gasp at the vast panorama of mountain peaks from up close. Glaciers, waterfalls, rivers and wild life loom alive from this breath-taking platform
The only way to go to the "Skywalk" is through the Ice Explorer - a rugged specially designed coach capable of handling snow and glaciers. It leaves the Discovery Center every 20 mins. The 5 to 10 min. ride is included in the fee. Open from Monday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, it is at the Discovery Center where you can park your vehicles. It is also here where the Columbia Icefield Glacier Skywalk starts and ends.
Photo below shows the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center - the starting point where visitors are shuttled to the Skywalk
2 Important events to watch out in Banff as spring season nears end
1. Banff Slush Cup : May 19, 2025
2. Banff Half Marathon : June 15, 2025
To be held on May 19, 2025 the Banff Slush Cup celebrates the last day of the ski season. Participants from all parts of the globe come to Sunshine Village not only to test their skills in ski and snowboarding but also to experience the thrill and excitement of this momentous day. Visitors likewise aim to be a part of the jovial atmosphere and to bring home the memory.
The objective of the competition is to reach the end of the icy pool covering a distance of 110 ft. on slushes of ice emanating from the Rocky Mountains
Thousands are expected to come this year as early bookings indicate and as evidenced by previous years' records. Winners of the competition are awarded the distinct honor of Mr. Slush Cup and Ms. Slush Cup. Also the winners receive 2025/26 free season passes. Most importantly, they each receive $1,000 cash prize.
*Rising 7,200 ft. along the Continental Divide, the Sunshine Village affords skiers and snowboarders 3,300 acres of varying and challenging skiable terrain in the heart of the Rocky Mountains
Key Features of the Banff Slush Cup
& The Banff Half Marathon
The Banff Half Marathon offers runners a unique and unforgettable experience. Set against the backdrop of the Canadian Rockies. Taking place in Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site happening on June 15, 2025 this year, this event combines breathtaking natural scenery with a well-organized race atmosphere. Participants can look forward to a course that winds through majestic mountain landscapes, vibrant forests, and alongside crystal-clear rivers.
The event is designed to cater to runners of all experience levels. Participants race on clearly marked routes, with support stations along designated areas. A rousing and raving community welcomes participants at the finish line. Truly, the Banff Half Marathon promises a race day like no other. It rivals if not surpasses other marathon events worldwide.
Though Banff officially bids goodbye to spring on June 20 this year, it is not marked with poignant tears and somber farewells. Instead, Banff celebrates it with a Big Bang. The Banff Slash Cup and theThe Half Marathon Run are the culminating activities for the spring season this year. Yet these are welcome transitions into a more ebullient and exciting Summer 2025. CHEERS!
Acknowledgement: Video credits - You Tube, columbiaicefields.com/patriots, Parks Canada