The Canadian Rockies are nothing short of magical scenery. It is nature’s creation at its best, packed with endless outdoor adventure opportunities. For a student looking to break from the monotony of class and books, and maybe even the pressure of upcoming deadlines, the Canadian Rockies are the perfect spot. Sometimes, stepping away from a hectic school schedule is necessary, and some students even hire custom essay writers to get time for a retreat. With assignments taken care of, you can truly enjoy a stress-free getaway at the Canadian Rockies. Here is the itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Banff – Gateway to the Rockies
To start the adventure, the Banff is the perfect spot. Here, you get to taste the goodness of the land by sampling a coffee or ice cream from the local cafes. The Banff Avenue is perfect for a stroll. From the avenue, the first stop should be at the Bow Falls. It is an easy walk from town and gives you a look at what to expect for the rest of the journey: stunning, beautiful scenery. In the afternoon and evening, relax at the Banff Upper hot springs. Here, you get to enjoy the mineral-rich waters with a spectacular view of Mount Rundle as you await Day 2.
Day 2: Banff Gondola and Hiking at Lake Louise
Start at the Banff Gondola. It is iconic for its panoramic views of the famous Bow Valley. An excellent way to have the best moments is to arrive early to avoid the crowds. Also, make sure to carry your camera to capture the views. From this spot, you can see the top of the Sulphur Mountain, which is breathtaking, and the view gets better as you ascend.
The next thing is to take a stroll along the Sulphur Mountain Broadwalk. If you love hiking and nature walking, this will be breathtaking. The 0.4-mile walk is packed with great views that lead to the Sanson Peak. It is a perfect place for a photo as it captures the Rockies.
Once done, it is time to descend to the famous Lake Louise. The 40-minute drive is the most beautiful ride you can ever get. At Lake Louise, you get to enjoy the canoes. You can choose to paddle across the clear waters or hike up the trails to the Lake Agnes Tea House, which has incredible views of the lake from above.
Day 3: Yoho National Park at Emerald Lake and Takkakaw
Visit Yoho National Park. The park is home to some famous hidden gems such as Takkakaw Falls and Emerald Lake. To start, tour the Lake Emerald. The lake is surrounded by dense forest and towering peaks while the green water makes it a breathtaking scenery. Here, canoes are available for rent and are slightly cheaper than at Lake Louise.
After a session at the lake, tour the iconic Takkakaw Fall in the afternoon. It is one of the highest waterfalls. The hike to the falls is quick and easy. Here, you get to see the water cascade down the cliff, making sounds only nature can understand.
Day 4: Icefields Parkway for a Scenic Drive to Jasper
On day 4, you are going to enjoy the most scenic road trip you can ever have in the world. Since it’s a road trip day, pack some snacks to keep you energized during the day. Driving across the Icefields Parkway, a 144-mile road stretch, you get to enjoy a new stunning view.
On the way, ensure you stop at Peyto Lake to enjoy the blue waters. The viewpoint is a short walk from the parking lot, thus an easy stop. Afterward, continue to Bow Lake, which is perfect for a break and some photography while enjoying your snacks.
The next stop is the famous Colombia Icefield. Here, you get to walk on the Athabasca glacier. If you are new, opt for a guided glacier tour. You will get to experience everything about glaciers, from their formation to sanding on ancient ice.
Day 5: Exploring Maligne Canyon Jasper
The Maligne Canyon is a must-visit. The trail is designed to follow the edge of the canyon, offering a stunning view of the water beneath. Also, you do not need special gear or a permit; hence, it is budget-friendly.
Tip: there are shuttle services available. However, you can opt-in for a free walking tour. Also, you can leverage the Jasper National Park tour, as it offers walking tours to the canyon.
Day 6: Adventure at Maligne Lake and Medicine Lake
Start off at the Maligne Lake, famous for its clear waters and a mountain backdrop. You can rent a kayak or take a cruise to Spirit Island. On the way, make sure to take photographs of the view. Alternatively, you can paddle as you enjoy nature on your own terms and pace.
The next must-stop is the disappearing Medicine Lake. From the name, the lake appears and disappears based on seasons. According to geographers, the natural occurrence can be attributed to the underlying drainage system that drains the water from the lake, causing it to disappear. It is also suitable for viewing wildlife and for a quiet meditation in nature.
Day 7: Return to Banff-Relax at Vermillion Lake
On the last day of your adventures, return to Banff. However, make one last stop at the Vermillion Lakes. The lake is a short drive from Banff town and is a bird lover’s dream.
It’s also a perfect place for a picnic, offering a peaceful retreat to recharge before diving back into your busy school schedule – one that might even have you relying on the best essay writing service to stay afloat. Also, it is budget-friendly, as you can spend the afternoon looking at the Rockies without spending a dime.
Day 8: Departure From Banff
Day 8 is time to go. But before you leave, you can have your last meal in the friendly cafes of Banff town. If you did not purchase a souvenir, this is the last time you will be able to do so.
Wrapping Up
You don’t have to spend loads of money to have a great time exploring the Canadian Rockies. There is always a way to explore the Rockies with a tight wallet and still have a good time. The Canadian Rockies are perfect for all ages, from enjoying beautiful scenery to walking and paddling.