#Banff Mount Norquay

[katblu42]

Day 15 Banff

Today was a free day just to wander at leisure. It was a fairly lazy day for me, but still included 4 hours on my feet, and over 200 photos!

Started with a walk down The Avenue (Banff Ave), and when you look north the skyline is dominated by Cascade Mountain.

I did walk (south) to the Bow River, but I'll show you pics from there later . . . Most people won't think a magpie is all that exciting, but our magpies don't look like this!

Stopped in at the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, which had some interesting interactive displays about the national parks and railways and the people behind them, but I really liked the exhibition of artworks about birds.

Owl sculpture in bronze is called Slipstreaming and is by Niel Clifford

Steel sculpture called Little Bird by Peter McFarlane

and this one called Owl which is ink on paper by Robert J Hope looked kind of 3D as I approached it on an angle, but I couldn't capture that effect with the camera.

Okay, photos from the Bow River. I'm not sure what mountains are in these shots, maybe Norquay and Edith?

This one is Mount Rundle

and from the other side of the river we can look back across as Cascade Mountain.

Next stop was the Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum. Wandered through the gift shop before I went in and loved these buffalo horn carvings, but chickened out of buying the one that was begging me to take it home.

(The eagle near the middle of the second pic was the one I nearly bought.)

Inside they had a bunch of life-sized diorama displays, but I was mostly fascinated by the clothing/accessories, baskets etc decorated with porcupine quills and beads (which came later after trading with Europeans began).

How cool are these head pieces!

Getting close to the 30 pic limit again!!! So, just a couple of pics from the grounds of the Cascades of Time Gardens.

This impressive building is the headquaters/admin building for the Banff National Park. It's made from Rundle Stone.

Gonna say it again . . . 30 images is not enough! But then, I did have to choose from over 200! And I know I did not do justice to the things I saw with just these few, but I hope you get the idea! (and that I did not bore you with my photo spam)

[to-travel-smart]

Canada: Banff National Park Rocky Mountain Gem is a stunning natural wonder that draws millions of visitors each year to its breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Located in the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, Canada, Banff National Park is the oldest national park in the country and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park covers an area of over 6,600 square kilometers and is home to some of the most iconic mountain peaks in the Rockies, including Mount Rundle, Castle Mountain, and the famous Lake Louise. Banff National Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from hiking and camping to skiing and wildlife viewing. One of the most popular attractions in Banff National Park is Lake Louise, a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by towering mountain peaks. Visitors can take a hike around the lake or rent a canoe to paddle on its tranquil waters. In the winter, Lake Louise transforms into a world-class ski resort, with miles of groomed trails and challenging terrain for all levels of skiers. Another must-see attraction in Banff National Park is Moraine Lake, known for its vibrant blue waters and stunning mountain backdrop. Visitors can take a short hike to the top of the Rockpile for a panoramic view of the lake and surrounding mountains, or rent a canoe to explore the lake up close. Rocky Mountain Gem is also home to an abundance of wildlife, including elk, deer, bighorn sheep, and even grizzly bears. Visitors can take a wildlife tour or hike one of the many trails in the park to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. For those looking for a more challenging adventure, Banff National Park offers a number of hiking trails that range from easy walks to multi-day treks. The Skyline Trail is a popular choice for experienced hikers, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In the winter, Rocky Mountain Gem becomes a haven for skiers and snowboarders, with world-class ski resorts such as Sunshine Village and Mt. Norquay offering a variety of runs for all levels of skiers. Visitors can also take a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, a 230-kilometer highway that winds through the heart of the Rockies, offering stunning views of glaciers, waterfalls, and mountain peaks. Rocky Mountain Gem is also home to a number of charming towns and villages, including Banff and Canmore, where visitors can find cozy lodges, gourmet restaurants, and boutique shops. The town of Banff is a bustling hub of activity, with lively bars and restaurants, while Canmore offers a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, Banff National Park has something for everyone. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and endless outdoor activities, it's no wonder why Banff National Park is considered one of the most beautiful national parks in the world. Canada's Banff National Park is a true marvel, renowned for its stunning natural beauty and breathtaking landscapes. As the premier destination for nature lovers, adventurers, and travelers seeking unparalleled experiences, Banff offers an array of activities, from hiking and skiing to wildlife watching and exploring charming mountain villages. With its crystal-clear lakes, towering mountains, and lush forests, Banff captivates the hearts of millions each year. For those looking to make the most of their visit, traveling smart is essential. "To Travel Smart" is not just a concept; it's a necessity when exploring such a vast and diverse park. By planning your trip carefully, you can avoid peak crowds, secure the best accommodations, and enjoy guided tours that reveal hidden gems and insider secrets. Utilizing travel apps, booking early, and researching the best times to visit can transform your trip into an unforgettable adventure. Traveling smart also means being mindful of the environment. Banff's pristine beauty requires preservation, so opt for eco-friendly practices like using reusable water bottles, respecting wildlife, and following marked trails.

By doing so, you contribute to the park's conservation efforts, ensuring it remains a natural wonder for generations to come. Whether you're seeking thrill, tranquility, or a deeper connection with nature, Canada's Banff National Park offers it all. Embrace the spirit of smart travel and uncover the magic of this No. 1 natural wonder. In conclusion, Banff National Park is a natural wonder that offers something for everyone. Whether you're an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or a snow sports enthusiast, there is no shortage of activities to enjoy in this stunning park. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and charming towns, Banff National Park is a must-visit destination for any nature lover.[ad_2] The Ultimate Guide to Smart Travel: Tips & Tricks

[jjlohsorryeh]

Overlooking town of Banff from Mount Norquay

[usacountryguide]

10 Breath-Taking Hiking Destinations in North America for Thrilling Adventure

There are many reasons for indulging in hiking. It could be for health, or it could be to get back to nature, but for many North Americans, hiking is just a way of life. They love hiking and owing to this love, many breath-taking hiking destinations have been developed across the USA and Canada. As a tourist with a US visa, you should also check these destinations and enjoy North America’s great outdoors.

Yellowstone National Park

North America’s most popular national park is also one of the best hiking spots in US. Yellowstone National Park is shared by Wyoming and Idaho, and you can hike through several trails from both sides with Lake Village and Canyon Village being the most popular ones. Most hikers use trails to reach Mammoth Hot Springs and Old Faithful.

Glacier National Park

This park is so popular that there are many wheelchair-accessible locations within. Glacier National Park has more than 1100 kms of hiking trails leading through dense and beautiful forests up to huge mountains and is home to many animals. Glacier National Park is a must-hike destination.

Grand Canyon

This natural wonder is also a popular hiking destination. You are going to be mesmerised by the sheer magnificence of the Grand Canyon. And you can see the best parts of it through Rim Trail, Bright Angel Trail, and North Kaibab Trail. These trails are divided into North Rim and South Rim, so you have to choose from which state you want to enter the Grand Canyon.

Banff National Park

Image Credit-www.afar.com

Banff in Alberta, Canada has the most stunning vistas from the Rock Mountains. With over 1600 kms of hiking trails, this is a park where you can plan a long hiking trip and enjoy the most amazing nature in all of North America. Apart from hiking, Banff also has skiing destinations like Mount Norquay and biking destinations like Healy Creek. There’s something for everyone.

Yosemite National Park

Considered by most as one of the best places to go hiking in US, Yosemite provides everything you’d want in a hike. With untouched nature, stunning vistas, rare flora & fauna, and world-class trails like Half Dome Trail, Swinging Bridge Trail, and Four Mile Trail, Yosemite in California has something for all types of hikers.

Jasper National Park

All the trails in Canada’s Jasper National Park are marked according to difficulty, so you can choose what suits you best. Jasper has more than 3 million acres of amazing nature on offer, amidst the most peaceful surroundings. Maligne Canyon, full of caverns, is a must-see in Jasper National Park.

Zion National Park

Many hikers come to Zion National Park to experience its mostly primal existence. There are also restrictions on hikers, making the place crowd-free. The red sandstone mountains make for a great backdrop to the park when you use the shuttle service. Three must-see places here are Kolob Canyon, Zion Wilderness, and Zion Canyon.

Arches National Park

This national park is famous for its rocky formations, and many hikers come here to admire these natural phenomena. The Delicate Arch, Fiery Furnace, Balanced Rock, and Double Arch are the most famous sites in this park. Arches is also famous for the unpredictable weather, so plan accordingly before heading to the park.

Lake Tahoe

Tahoe city is one of the best US cities for hiking owing to Lake Tahoe. Many hikers start their day with a beautiful sunrise at Eagle Rock and head out to the Tahoe Rim Trail or Mount Tallac Trail. During the winter, Lake Tahoe becomes a popular skiing destination, but hiking in the winter can also be a lot of fun.

Grand Teton National Park

Surrounded by the Teton Mountain Range, this national park is known to be unique and different from other parks. Though Grand Teton National Park is home to the bald eagle, it is also home to quintessentially American animals like grizzly bears and bison. May to September is the best time to come here as nature is in full bloom.

Visit these above-given breath-taking places for the best hiking vacations in the US and Canada and see the natural beauty of North America.

[just-wanna-travel]

Norquay Lookout, Canada

[findmytrip]

Travel to Canada

Canada is a country in the northern part of North America. There are ten provinces and three territories extend from the Atlantic to the Pacific and northward into the Arctic Ocean. Its covering 9.98 million square Kilometers, making it the world’s second-largest country by total area. Canada is one of the famous tourist country with millions of visitors per year(22.1 Million visitors). 10…

[swashbucklery]

ifyouresure replied to your post “Look I know that what Crisis is going to be is just like, a bunch of...”

the luthors never took lena and lex to the canmore visitor information centre for free canada day cake on the drive from calgary to banff during their summer holidays in alberta and it shows

wow this is quite possibly the best response that my evil base Banff Mount Norquay post could ever have earned and I’m delighted, thank you so much for existing and saying your words.

I love it because a) you’re right, and b) because it implies the Luthor family, who have never once driven their own automobiles in their life, taking a chauffeured trip through the mountains in July. Why were they vacationing in Alberta? Was it so that Lillian could buy Lex a ski hill, just in case?

I also love it because it sort of implies that, after their brisk drive through Canmore with none cake, they perhaps stopped at the Calgary Stampede? And I want very much to imagine a world in which the Luthors stood dourly, sipping their whiskey on ice, neat, watching the rodeo and each having their own private daydreams about perhaps affixing laser beams to the head of a charging bull in order to kill all aliens.

(Also if the evil base is in Banff, it’s also definitely in a national park which means finding contractors willing to violate federal law to build an illegal secret mountain base? Absolute nightmare. Making sure the ion cannons didn’t vaporize any endangered or protected wildlife without a hunting permit? Such a headache! And on top of that the satellite dishes!)

[earthstory]

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A post shared by Smiles and Miles Away (@wandersweetwander)

wandersweetwander A little glimpse of the amazing view from the top of Mt Norquay after the Ridgewalker via ferrata climb 

[thorsenmark]

Mount Norquay and a Setting Along the Banks of the Bow River (Black & White) by Mark Stevens

[k4yak]

Sulphur Mountain and Vermillion Lakes

(My photo, do not remove caption)

[kwyck2313]

Mount Norquay - Banff

[allkindsnature]

View from the Mount Norquay chairlift in the summer. Banff National Park. [OC] [3264 x 2448] source:https://ift.tt/39JffXU

[cdnart]

Margaret Shelton; Boathouses and Mount Norquay, Banff  

[entertainmentnerdly]

View from the Mount Norquay chairlift in the summer. Banff National Park. [OC] [3264 x 2448] via /r/EarthPorn https://ift.tt/39JffXU

[stumbleimg]

View from the Mount Norquay chairlift in the summer. Banff National Park. [OC] [3264 x 2448]

[aiiaiiiyo]

The last rays of sun hitting Mount Norquay in Banff, Alberta [OC] [5302x2548] Check this blog!