From the vast landscape practically untouched to the lakes so blue they look almost surreal, the Canadian Rockies contain a beauty unique to the expanses of its towering peaks. Whether you’re a hiker or a mellow vacationer, traveling here can suit any form of wandering disposition. 

The Wonders of the Canadian Rockies 

1. The History

The Canadian Rockies have been the stomping ground of natives and settlers alike for the last 4000 years. The Kootenay and Secwepemc peoples would navigate the southern passes to hunt on the Prairies to the east. When European explorers came, starting with Alexander Mackenzie following the Peace River in 1793, they took the northern routes.

What they discovered were the likes of Yellowhead Pass, Jasper National Park, and Banff National Park, all main attractions of this scenic area since the dawn of the Canadian Pacific Railway in the 1880s. Traveling here, your first views of these vast landscapes will instill the same wonder the adventurers of ages past experienced as they trekked through this frontier. 

2. The Natural Beauty

With stunning views at every turn, there’s no question why millions of people visit this region every year. Hitch a ride on the Icefields Parkway for the most scenic 144 miles you’ll ever drive. Along the way, stand at the turquoise shores of Banff’s Peyto Lake, which gets its icy color from the glacial rock flour that flows from Peyto Glacier. Another breathtaking stop at Athabasca Falls will make you never want to leave—as you’ll quickly find that there are endless stops like this left to explore. 

3. The Wildlife

There is a variety of stunning wildlife you can find during your adventures through the Canadian Rockies:

• Bears: Keep your distance from grizzlies and black bears, but if you want a peek, your best shot is during the early morning, as they remain out and about when they know humans won’t wonder nearby.
• Beavers: This woodland animal is nocturnal, so you’ll usually find them a sunset as they’re just waking up.
• Mountain goats: On Icefields Parkway, there is a pull-off aptly named “Goats and Glaciers,” where you’ll catch a glance of these crazy goats climbing the steep inclines of the glaciers.
• Moose: Locally referred to as “swamp donkeys,” moose roam at namesake Moose Meadows and Moose Lake Loop in Jasper National Park. This animal is very territorial, so keep your distance.
• Bighorn Sheep: This animal runs rampant throughout the region, and odds are you’ll run into one with a quick drive down Icefields Parkway.
• Elk: Similar to the Bighorn Sheep, you’ll encounter plenty of elk during your journey, including on the road. Keep a keen eye out for ones that might bolt out in front of your car, and keep your distance, as these animals—especially during rutting season—can get very aggressive. 
• Wolves: These creatures are rare to find, but organizations like the Yamnuska Wolfdog Sanctuary in Canmore can give you the opportunity to see one in person as well as support the preservation of their species.

If you plan to seek out the wildlife of the Canadian Rockies, fall and spring are the best opportunities to visit. Remember never to feed or approach any of the animals you encounter; not only is it for your safety, but it comes with a 25,000$CAD fine if you break this law of the area. Also, if you plan to camp, always have bear spray close at hand and know how to use it. While beautiful and majestic, all of these creatures are wild animals and deserve respect and solitude.

4. The Activities

When you visit, you don’t just want to drive through the views; you want to revel a moment within them. Every sunrise here is an experience, as you immerse yourself in the idyllic scenery, and every day offers an opportunity to explore the mountain ranges by foot, by helicopter, and even by gondola! In Banff, the famous gondola immerses you in the breathtaking views as you glide along the treeline to the summit of Sulphur Mountain.

If your next vacation has the Canadian Rockies in store, an experienced travel company can help you make the most of your time there. Next summer, American Dream Tours is offering the perfect trip to this beautiful region, complete with two days aboard the Rock Mountaineer and three nights at the Rimrock Resort Hotel in Banff. From scenic views to elegant dining, this Plymouth, IN, based travel company has thought of everything for an idyllic week traveling from Vancouver to Banff and everywhere in between. For more information about this exciting getaway and to book a spot, call (574) 936-5677 or visit their website.