Banff Blog

Banff to Jasper Video

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 05:34:00 +0000

This is a great 8 minute video for ideas on what to do between Banff and Jasper.

Self-drive holiday packages in Canada are available through RockyMountainHolidays.com

TransCanada Wildlife Crossings Video

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 02:15:00 +0000

Interesting video by Parks Canada on the wildlife crossings along the TransCanada Highway in Banff National Park:

More interesting facts on these crossings can be found HERE.

Banff Lake Louise Events

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Tue, 29 Dec 2009 23:02:00 +0000

Banff and Lake Louise day and evening events for the week of Dec 30 – Jan 6 2010 can be viewed HERE.

Happy Holidays to everyone!

Banff Santa Claus Parade Photos

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 22:51:00 +0000

The start of the 2009 Banff Santa Claus Parade of lights in Banff, Canada.

Nothing like a giant inflatable Santa Claus to get the crowds excited!

Santa in the Lake Louise gondola on his way to the North Pole.

The Banff Lake Louise Tourism Float and the Crasher Squirrel - that little guy gets his face in all the pics!

You wouldn't want to get in the way of the Brewster snowcoach. These snowcoaches are used to transport tourists onto the Athabasca glacier in the summer.

Henry's electric (local electrician) made us laugh with their float.

A family favourite - the fire truck decked out with Christmas lights!

Banff/Canmore Community Bus

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 19:00:00 +0000

Operates: Tuesdays and Thursdays- until December 17, 2009

The Town of Banff-FCSS, The Town of Canmore-FCSS and the Canadian Rockies Public Schools are partners that provide bus service between Banff and Canmore for all seniors in our communities and for low-income clients (under $24,000) with an agency referral.

The service is free but registration is required and the Banff YWCA, Town of Banff –FCSS or Town of Canmore FCSS must issue tickets. Banff seniors can use their taxi passes.

Clients must be able to get up/down the bus stairs. No oxygen or flammable items are allowed. Animals (unless used as aides) or children under 4 cannot be accommodated on the bus. Items that you bring must be able to fit in the bus seats; the aisles must be kept clear for safety purposes.

Please be ready and waiting for the buses.

BUS SCHEDULE
The bus will arrive at its destination approximately ½ hr after the last departure site.

Morning Departures from Banff:
Mount Edith House 8:25 am
Banff Park Lodge 8:30
Banff Seniors Centre 8:35
YWCA 8:40

Drop off locations in Canmore:
Sobeys, Canmore Seniors Centre, Miners Union Lodge

Afternoon Departures from Canmore:
Sobeys 2:00 pm
Miners Union Lodge 2:05
Bow River Seniors Lodge 2:10
Victory Thrift Store 2:15

Drop off locations in Banff:
Mount Edith House, Banff Park Lodge, Banff Seniors Centre, YWCA

Afternoon Departures from Banff:
Mount Edith Lodge 4:30 pm
Banff Park Lodge 4:35
Banff Seniors Centre 4:40
Banff YWCA 4:45

Drop off locations in Canmore:
Sobeys, Canmore Seniors Centre, Miners Union Lodge

***NO RETURN BUSES TO BANFF AFTER 2:15 p.m.***

If you have any questions please contact Nancy Lewis, Town of Banff FCSS at 403-762-1254 or Mavis Sautner, Town of Canmore FCSS at 403-678-7129.

Bow Valley Grill - Skiers Buffet

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Sat, 24 Oct 2009 17:48:00 +0000

This winter, visit Banff, Canada’s majestic ‘Castle in the Rockies’, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, for an elaborate Skiers dinner buffet, featured in the Bow Valley Grill.

The Fairmont Banff Springs is proud to present a menu created by their talented chefs from across Canada and around the world. The fresh and delectable cuisine, fine wines, and personalized service will ensure that this experience is memorable.

The Bow Valley Grill’s unique design boasts a 50-ft. open kitchen providing an opportunity for you to interact with the skilled chefs while you dine. Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere that celebrates the spirit of the outdoors while you gaze upon breathtaking views of the Fairholme Mountain Range.

Price:

Adults - CDN$30.00

Children ages 6 - 12 - CDN$15.00

Children ages 5 and under - FREE

Please note:

Prices do not include tax or gratuity. Groups of 8 or more will be subject to an automatic 18% gratuity.

Hours of Operation:
Thursday to Sunday - 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm Buffet beings Friday, November 27th and runs until the end of April 2010.

Dress Code:

Resort-casual. No ripped jeans or sports wear.

Dining Reservations:
Reservations are recommended. For individual reservations, please contact the Fairmont Banff Springs Dining Reservations at 403-762-6860 or bsh.diningreservations@fairmont.com.

For group reservations of 13 guests or more please contact the Food & Beverage Office at 403-762-1710 or colleen.pietens@fairmont.com.

Please note:

The Skiers Buffet will not be available during the Holiday Season, as they will have festive menus in place. Please contact the Food and Beverage Office for more details about the menu and dining options during this time.

Banff Springs Ski Holiday

You do NOT need to be staying at the Banff Springs Hotel to enjoy the buffet but if you would like to stay in this hotel on your Ski Holiday in Canada, contact Ski Holidays Canada.

Banff Ice Hockey Tours

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 17:07:00 +0000

You can now book and secure your Calgary Flames NHL ice hockey tickets including transportation from Banff and Canmore for the 2009-2010 winter season.

For those of you who have not been to an NHL ice hockey game, the atmosphere is incredible. The Calgary Flames scored 98 points last season and came 5th in North America's West. In the West, San Jose Sharks came first last season, Chicago Blackhawks second, Vancouver Canucks third and Detroit Red Wings fourth. These will all be popular games when the Calgary Flames take them on again in the Saddledome.

The Calgary Flames have a good defence for this upcoming season so watch out!

Here is the 2009-2010 Calgary Flames home schedule:

Date	Opponent	Game Time
Thu Oct 1, 2009	VANCOUVER	8.00 PM
Tue Oct 6, 2009	MONTREAL	7:00 PM
Fri Oct 9, 2009	DALLAS	7:00 PM
Fri Oct 16, 2009	VANCOUVER	7:00 PM
Tue Oct 20, 2009	COLUMBUS	7.30 PM
Sat Oct 24, 2009	EDMONTON	8.00 PM
Wed Oct 28, 2009	COLORADO	7.30 PM
Sat Oct 31, 2009	DETROIT	8.00 PM
Sat Nov 7, 2009	NY RANGERS	8.00 PM
Tue Nov 17, 2009	COLORADO	7.30 PM
Thu Nov 19, 2009	CHICAGO	7.30 PM
Wed Nov 25, 2009	PHOENIX	7.30 PM
Wed Dec 9, 2009	ATLANTA	7.30 PM
Fri Dec 11, 2009	MINNESOTA	7:00 PM
Thu Dec 17, 2009	LOS ANGELES	7.30 PM
Sat Dec 19, 2009	NASHVILLE	2.00 PM
Wed Dec 23, 2009	ST LOUIS	7.30 PM
Sun Dec 27, 2009	VANCOUVER	6.00 PM
Wed Dec 30, 2009	LOS ANGELES	7.30 PM
Thu Dec 31, 2009	EDMONTON	7:00 PM
Sat Jan 2, 2010	TORONTO	5.00 PM
Fri Jan 8, 2010	COLUMBUS	7:00 PM
Mon Jan 11, 2010	COLORADO	8.00 PM
Wed Jan 13, 2010	PITTSBURGH	7.30 PM
Fri Jan 15, 2010	NASHVILLE	7:00 PM
Thu Jan 21, 2010	CHICAGO	7.30 PM
Mon Jan 25, 2010	ST LOUIS	7.30 PM
Sat Jan 30, 2010	EDMONTON	8.00 PM
Mon Feb 1, 2010	PHILADELPHIA	7.30 PM
Wed Feb 3, 2010	CAROLINA	7:00 PM
Thu Feb 11, 2010	DALLAS	7.30 PM
Sat Feb 13, 2010	ANAHEIM	8.00 PM
Wed Mar 3, 2010	MINNESOTA	8.00 PM
Fri Mar 5, 2010	NEW JERSEY	7:00 PM
Thu Mar 11, 2010	OTTAWA	7.30 PM
Mon Mar 15, 2010	DETROIT	7.30 PM
Fri Mar 19, 2010	SAN JOSE	7:00 PM
Tue Mar 23, 2010	ANAHEIM	7:00 PM
Wed Mar 31, 2010	PHOENIX	7.30 PM
Tue Apr 6, 2010	SAN JOSE	7.30 PM
Thu Apr 8, 2010	MINNESOTA	7.30 PM

To book Banff Ice Hockey, contact rocky-peak Holidays direct.

Banff Walk a Mile 2010

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 21:09:00 +0000

Sign up or sponsor someone for the “Walk a Mile in Her Shoes” event in Banff.

The goal is to raise both funds and awareness for domestic violence. It is run by the local YWCA in Banff. Men in business or public service in the Bow Valley have been asked to spread awareness and/or to seek pledges to support them as they walk around town in some fetching high heels for this cause! Like it says on the Banff walk a mile website “it’s a fun event for a serious cause”.

For those of you interested in more information about this initiative and would like to spread the word, the national site is www.walkamile.ca This year the event takes place in Halifax, Calgary and Banff.

The YWCA is a not-for-profit organisation and they offer a valuable service to women, men and families in the Bow Valley.

On the Banff walk a mile website there is a link to “Support a Walker”. We are supporting a good friend Spencer Schneider and encourage you too if you don't have anyone to sponsor. You can find Spence listed under "individual walkers". There is a really easy online credit card form that will generate an instant receipt. There is also a registered charity number on the site as well. Proceeds go towards funding local domestic violence and housing initiatives and services.

The event takes place next week on Friday on Sept. 11, 2009. Our friend Spencer has already started practicing his runway walk.....

Thank you for spreading the word and please retweet this to your friends and encourage them to donate!

Banff Elk Bugle

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 15:32:00 +0000

Ever heard prehistoric sounding noises in Banff National Park when you have been lying in bed or out on a stroll? The sounds are most likely that of the elk. The stag elk likes to bugle to keep his herd in order as the video below demonstrates:

Do you have other noises from Banff National Park you would like to share or us to identify? Describe or post a link in the comments box below and we will do our best!

Banff Mineral Springs Maternity Ward

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:33:00 +0000

The Banff Mineral Springs Maternity ward re-opened earlier this month making a lot of expectant mothers in the Banff area very happy.

The Obstetrics Program at the hospital was shut down for several months because of a severe nursing shortage and with overwhelming support from the locals, was re-opened again. If this hospital had not re-opened, then expectant mothers in Banff would have had to go to Canmore (20-30 minutes drive) or even Calgary (1.5 hours drive). About 120 babies are born at the Mineral Springs Hospital in Banff each year.

Talking from personal experience, our first child was born in the Mineral Springs Hospital in 2007 and our second is due this November and our doctor, Jane Fowke and the nurses at the hospital made it a truly memorable experience. The Banff Mineral Springs is the nicest hospital we have ever come across and feel fortunate to have it close by. May the Obstetrics Program remain open for many years to come!

Banff Jasper Ski Holiday

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 16:02:00 +0000

Can't decide where you would like to ski this winter then a twin centre ski holiday package is for you.

Twin centre ski holidays are perfect for experiencing more than one ski resort in Canada. If you are not sure, try out a ski-day trip such as the Kicking Horse Powder Express or the Panorama ski bus trip - they both leave from Banff and return in the same day. If you like the ski resorts, then you can come back the following year and stay a little longer!

Ski Holidays Canada just put together the sample quote below to give you an idea of price. If any part is not suitable, they can change it. It is based on 4 adults, all with separate beds, staying in 2 rooms.

Arrive: Saturday, February 27 2010
Depart: Saturday, March 13 2010
Nights: 14
Pax: 4 adults
Rooms: 2 (2 beds per room)

Twin Centre Ski Package includes:

- Scheduled airport transfers - Calgary YYC to Banff (Saturday, February 27 2010)
- Banff Aspen Lodge - Premium Room with breakfast included - 7 nights
- 6, 7 or 8-day Tri-Area Ski Pass (Banff Norquay, Sunshine Village, Lake Louise) with FREE ski shuttle from hotel
- 3-day club ski (Banff Norquay, Sunshine Village, Lake Louise) - starts Sunday February 28 2010
- Scheduled transfer to Jasper (Saturday, March 6 2010)
- Jasper Whistlers Inn - standard room - 7 nights
- 6-day Jasper Marmot Ski Pass with FREE ski shuttle from hotel
- 3-day "ski week" tuition - starts 9:30am, 12pm and 2pm daily. Includes video analysis.
- Private airport transfer - Jasper to Calgary YYC (Saturday, March 13 2010)

Discounted Package Rate (includes all taxes, promotions and early-bird discounts): CDN$7,380 for 4 adults, two rooms, and two beds per room (CDN$1,845pp). No additional discounts permitted - this is their lowest rate.

Every ski package Ski Holidays Canada put together is unique, as each one is created based on your preferences. For more information, contact Ski Holidays Canada direct.

Canadian Rockies - Things to Remember

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 16:49:00 +0000

15 things to remember when you visit the Canadian Rockies in the summer: Canadian Rockies - Things to Remember in the Summer

Source: Canadian Rockies Blog

Ice Explorer - Kids go FREE Sat JUNE 27

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 16:51:00 +0000

The Columbia Icefield Glacier Experience is an Ice Explorer snowcoach onto the Athabasca Glacier operating during spring, summer and the autumn. Located on the spectacular Icefields Parkway, this is one stop between Banff/Lake Louise and Jasper you shouldn't miss.

Almost all of our Rocky Mountain itineraries include this glacier experience.

Best of all, on this Saturday, June 27 2009, children under 16 years go FREE with an adult.

It doesn't stop there! There will be:

- Balloons and gifts for all children

- Photos with the Glacier Experience bear

- Live on location Lite 96 Radio

....and much, much more!

Below is the flyer:

2009 Ice Explorer Rates:

Adult (16+): CDN$46.67

Child (6-15): CDN$22.86 (FREE on June 27 2009)

Rates are subject to 5% GST.

To book, contact rocky-peak Holidays

rocky-peak Holidays offers year-round holidays and tours in the Canadian Rockies.

Toll-Free Phone (North America): 1-888-PH-ROCKY (74-76259)

Free Phone from the U.K.: 0800-567-7542

Trail to link Canmore to Lake Louise

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Tue, 26 May 2009 22:17:00 +0000

A long awaited multi-use trail linking Canmore, Banff and Lake Louise will be constructed this summer and ready for cyclists and hikers in 2010.

Environment minister Jim Prentice was in Banff Tuesday [May 19] to announce the Banff Legacy Trail, which is being constructed as an anniversary project celebrating 125 years of Banff National Park.

“It’s long overdue from my perspective,” Prentice said, a cyclists himself who knows the potential dangers of riding on roadways.

“You never feel entirely save when you’re on the highway.”

The 26 km trail comes with an estimated cost of $6.75 million. Bridge design and the trail’s layout will be finalized with the completion of an environmental assessment. Once complete, the trail will become part of the Trans Canada Trail network, which is already 70 per cent complete.

Prentice said this trail will not only provide an economic boost, creating jobs locally, but will “encourage more sustainable tourism in the national parks” and be a “significant tourist attraction for years to come.”

Banff’s deputy Mayor Stavros Karlos, who is also a member of the Lands Adjacent to Banff (LATB) committee, which has been working for years to see this project come to fruition, was elated with the news.

“I am more ecstatic than perhaps anyone in this room,” he said. “On behalf of the Town of Banff, we are happy to see such a massive investment occur in trails.”

The trail will run primarily along the Trans Canada Highway right-of-way and wildlife fence. It will be a hard surfaced trail suitable for cycling, walking and in-line skating.

Deborah Apps, president and CEO of the Trans Canada Trail, said this section will become another jewel in the trail network that spans the country.

“This 26 km trail will truly be a Canadian Icon,” she said.

The tourism benefits of the trail were also praised as a way of showing visitors a new way to enjoy the park on a safe trail designed to incorporate scenic views.

“This is really an investment that will help residents and visitors explore the majestic Canadian Rockies,” said Bob Scott, assistant deputy minister with Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation. “Trails are important for our tourists and Albertans.”

The trail already has Prentice planning another trip to back to the mountains in 2010 for a bike ride.

“I intend to be here for the first ride on the trail,” he said.

He said getting to this point was thanks to the hard work of community groups like the LATB, Bow Corridor Regional Mobility Partnership, towns of Banff, Canmore and the MD of Bighorn.

Source: Larissa Barlow/Canmore Leader

Canada jumps to 5th in world tourism rankings

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 17:47:00 +0000

Canada overtook the US to move from ninth to fifth place

Canada is moving up in the world! Canada overtook the US to move from ninth to fifth place in The Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2009 released this month by the World Economic Forum. Canada’s high ranking is the result of “excellent” natural and cultural resources, the world’s top-ranked air infrastructure system and the business community’s consensus that the Canadian government is making a concerted effort to promote tourism overseas, according to the report.

“The report reflects the positive impact of the government’s increased support for tourism,” says Greg Klassen, Canadian Tourism Commission (CTC) vice president of Marketing. “It’s also significant for the investment community that Canada is recognized as a great place to develop tourism infrastructure.”

Switzerland, Austria and Germany topped the list again, while France jumped from 10th place to fourth in the new ranking. The United States dropped from seventh to eighth.

The World Economic Forum interviewed 13,000 executives around the world, including 79 Canadians. The organization weighed a variety of factors making countries attractive for tourism developers, including transport and tourism infrastructure, regulations, access to labour, safety and security, government tourism policy and natural and cultural resources.

Canada was particularly recognized for its resources—both natural and cultural. Canada has a reputation of offering access to spectacular natural beauty and also has nine natural sites recognized by the United Nations as World Heritage Sites.

Source: CTC news staff (18/03/09) & the Travel Alberta web editors

Banff Norquay Night Skiing

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 17:39:00 +0000

Banff Norquay now offers night skiing on Wednesday nights as well as Friday nights. Please see the bus schedule below.

There are many excellent ski specials available for Ski Holidays in Banff. Specials include up to 20% or more off accommodation as well as 2-for-1 spring lift passes.

Banff Gondola Alpine Lights

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 17:29:00 +0000

Banff Alpine Lights is one Banff Après Ski activity you won't want to miss!

Banff Gondola is still rated number one attraction in Banff on Trip Advisor, and experiencing the Banff Gondola in the evening time is a whole new exciting experience.

Operating every Tuesday night through the winter time, you can take the Banff Gondola up Sulphur Mountain at around 6pm. At the top of the gondola in the restaurant is a reception and live entertainment followed by a buffet dinner, perfect for a skier's appetite! More live entertainment then follows and the last gondola departs 9:30pm.

There are plenty of opportunities to take a photo of Banff at night, so remember your cameras!

Booking in advance is very much recommended as this new popular activity will be sure to book up. Booking is easy, simply contact rocky-peak Ski Holidays on 1-888-PH-ROCKY (1-888-74-76259) or on +1 403-609-0286 or contact rocky-peak Ski Holidays through their website.

A flyer is included below to give you a taster of what to expect!

WinterStart Festival lights up the Rockies

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 02:16:00 +0000

Residents and visitors in both Banff and Lake Louise join in the fun as we all celebrate the arrival of snow, and the excitement of the Christmas season, during the WinterStart Festival.

This year, the festival runs from November 29th through December 7th, with two action-packed weekends of winter sports, music, children's activities... and everyone's favourite attraction, the annual Santa Claus Parade of Lights.

At the World Cup alpine races in Lake Louise (Nov.29/30, Dec.6/7), the fastest skiers on earth hurtle down the mountain at speeds that easily top 100 kilometres per hour.

The busiest day of WinterStart is Saturday Dec. 6. In the afternoon, bring the young ones out to enjoy Christmas in the Rockies, with Christmas crafts, face painting, Santa Claus photos, cookie decorating, carol singing, and even a treasure hunt on Banff Avenue.

Then join the crowds beneath the festive lights along Banff Ave. for the Santa Claus Parade at 6 p.m.

Saturday Nov. 29 - Saturday Dec. 6 2008

Every year, Banff and Lake Louise celebrate the start of winter with two weekends of events that are fun for both residents and visitors.

Christmas in the Rockies, Saturday December 6, 2 - 5 p.m.

Christmas in the Rockies is a family-oriented afternoon filled with holiday treats and a chance to meet Santa Claus. Bring the young ones to Cascade Plaza to enjoy...

Christmas crafts
Face painting
Santa Claus photos
Cookie decorating fun
Carollers

Santa Claus Parade of Lights, Saturday December 6, 6 p.m.

Banff's Santa Claus Parade is the perfect way to end a family day: lights twinkle under the Rocky Mountain sky, as a parade of holiday floats delights the crowds lining the streets of Banff Avenue.

Men's World Cup Ski Races, Sat./Sun. November 29 & 30

Women's World Cup Ski Races, Sat./Sun. December 6 & 7

At the World Cup alpine races in Lake Louise, the fastest skiers in the world hurtle down the mountain at speeds that easily top 100 kilometres per hour. Two thrilling weekends of men’s and women’s ski racing.

Source: Town of Banff

Sunshine Village Banff - Open 2008

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 20:22:00 +0000

Sunshine Village is open, with a fantastic 60-cm base of pure, natural snow. The webcam shot below was taken yesterday, November 13 2008.

It’s early-season conditions. The Strawberry lift and two quads – WaWa and Standish are now in operation. More runs are expected open Saturday, as crews finish preparing runs.

It’s also a great time to stay on the mountain, at Banff’s only ski-in, ski-out hotel. The Sunshine Mountain Lodge, formally known as the Sunshine Inn, is offering discounted rates, with packages starting at $139 per person including next day skiing. Contact rocky-peak Ski Holidays for details on this and other ski specials!

To check on the current snow conditions for Sunshine Village, call the 24-hour snow phone at 403-760-SNOW (403-760-7669).

Happy skiing and riding!

Heli-Hike

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Wed, 22 Oct 2008 16:52:00 +0000

After being very impressed with a recent Heli-Hike in the Canadian Rockies, I wanted to write a bit about it and provide details on how you can go about booking it for yourself, as these tours need to be booked in advance.

I went out last Tuesday, October 14, which is getting quite late for Heli-Hiking. As you can see by the pictures, there was already some snow. Once the snow really accumulates, you can take advantage of a Heli-Snowshoe tours which can also be booked through rocky-peak Ski Holidays.

The drive to the Helicopter start point is spectacular in itself as you have to drive along the magnificent Icefields Parkway from either Jasper, Banff or Lake Louise. The location makes this tour a great addition to many itineraries in Western Canada as it is right en-route and so minimises travel time.

Once you arrive at the Icefields Heliport, just outside of Banff National Park, you will be safety briefed, geared up, and then you board the helicopter.

The helicopter takes you into the backcountry where you can start your hike with the certified guide. Martha, the guide, was very knowledgeable and has the qualifications to back this up!

The walk in itself was easy, however, if you are a stronger hiker, slightly more challenging heli-hikes can be arranged. The home-made gourmet lunch was delicious and really satisfying. After a couple of hours of hiking, the guide will radio the helicopter pilot and you will be picked up. It really is that easy!

I hope you enjoy the photos and if you have any questions, please feel free to post here and I will do my best to answer them, or you can contact rocky-peak Holidays direct.

Do you like Yoga? Why not try a Heli-Yoga tour?!

Memorable hiking in the Canadian Rockies.

There are many photo opportunities!

The only things left behind: your footprints.

Nature surrounds you. Opportunites to see wildlife.

The guide knows the area better than anyone!

Scenic mountain streams.

Abraham Lake greets you on your return flight.

Banff Ice Hockey

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 21:14:00 +0000

Banff Ice Hockey Tours to see the Calgary Flames play in the Saddledome are a great way to experience a Canadian passion. Ice Hockey to the Canadians is like soccer to the British!

For the 2008-2009 winter season, NHL ice hockey tours are once again offered from Banff to Calgary. Pick-ups from Canmore and Lake Louise can also be arranged. Our ticket packages include coach transportation, an onboard guide, a hockey souvenir and of course, your hockey ticket!

For most games, we offer Green and Black seating. See the seating diagram below:

The 2008-2009 Banff Ice Hockey Tour schedule is listed below:

2008-2009
Calgary Flames NHL Hockey Schedule

Date	Opponent	Departs Banff	Game Time
OCT 11	Canucks	5.15 pm	8.00 PM
OCT 14	Avalanche	4.45 pm	7:30 PM
OCT 17	Oilers	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
OCT 21	Capitals	4.45 pm	7:30 PM
OCT 28	Avalanche	4.45 pm	7.30 PM
OCT 30	Bruins	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
NOV 4	Coyotes	5.15 pm	8.00 PM
NOV 6	Predators	4.45 pm	7.30 PM
NOV 11	Maple Leafs	4.45 pm	7:30 PM
NOV 18	Avalanche	4.45 pm	7.30 PM
NOV 22	Red Wings	5.15 pm	8.00 PM
NOV 25	Kings	4.45 pm	7.30 PM
NOV 29	Canucks	5.15 pm	8.00 PM
DEC 2	Stars	4.45 pm	7.30 PM
DEC 12	Panthers	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
DEC 19	Blackhawks	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
DEC 23	Ducks	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
DEC 27	Senators	5.15 pm	8.00 PM
DEC 29	Wild	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
DEC 31	Oilers	5.15 pm	8.00 PM
JAN 6	Sharks	5.15 pm	8.00 PM
JAN 8	Islanders	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
JAN 13	Blues	4.45 pm	7.30 PM
JAN 17	Coyotes	5.15 pm	8.00 PM
JAN 21	Blue Jackets	5.15 pm	8.00 PM
JAN 28	Sabres	3.15 pm	6.00 PM
JAN 30	Predators	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
FEB 5	Blackhawks	4.45 pm	7.30 PM
FEB 7	Ducks	10.15 am	1.00 PM
FEB 9	Canadiens	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
FEB 17	Canucks	4.45 pm	7.30 PM
FEB 24	Blue Jackets	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
FEB 27	Wild	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
MAR 1	Lightning	3.15 pm	6.00 PM
MAR 18	Stars	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
MAR 20	Blues	4.15 pm	7.00 PM
MAR 23	Red Wings	4.45 pm	7.30 PM
MAR 28	Wild	5.15 pm	8.00 PM
MAR 30	Sharks	4:45 pm	7.30 PM
APR 6	Kings	4.45 pm	7.30 PM
APR 11	Oilers	5:15 pm	8.00 PM

Tickets this year are $104.76 for Black Tickets including transportation and $133.33 for Green. Both rates are subject to 5% Goods Services Tax.

For more information including how to book, visit Banff Ice Hockey.

Go Flames Go!

Banff Fall Photographs

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 19:27:00 +0000

Here are some pictures I think you'll enjoy! These pictures have not been edited - these are the true colours! This September has been a fantastic fall with above average temperatures and gentle winds allowing trees to show for longer! Can anyone guess the locations? All photos taken close to Banff of course!

Today's Weather: Snow! This is great news for Canada Ski Resorts some of which are scheduled to open early November!

Banff Ski Rentals

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Fri, 19 Sep 2008 16:51:00 +0000

Booking your Banff Ski Rentals is very much recommended, especially during the busy holiday periods.

By booking in advance, you will receive additional discounts on your Banff Ski Rentals, not available to you when you actually in resort, so preparation is key.

What sort of deals would I receive by pre-booking my rentals you may ask yourself? Not only do you not have to pay until you are actually in resort, you will also receive the following deals:

1) Same rate on Mid and High Performance ski and board rentals
2) Free Taxi to and from the Banff Ski Rentals shop or..
3) Free ski and snowboard deliveries to your hotel
4) 3+ days ski or board rental gets 15% shopping discount in the ski rentals store
5) 5+ days ski or board rental gets FREE dinner voucher

A credit card is required to secure the booking, but no payment is taken until you are in resort.

To take advantage and book visit Canada-Ski or rocky-peak Ski Holidays

Banff Snowmobile Tours

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 18:45:00 +0000

You may think it is too early for us to post information about 2008-2009 Banff snowmobile tours while we are still experiencing temperatures in the mid-30s (in the 90s in Fahrenheit!), but we just wanted to let you know about the snowmobile tours out of Banff, Canmore and Lake Louise for this upcoming 2008-2009 winter season.

Banff snowmobile tours are a great way to experience the great Canadian Outdoors!

This year, there are even more snowmobile tours for you to choose from, from full day family tours to high powered adrenaline tours, you will not be disappointed! There is no wonder that snowmobile tours in the winter months are one of our top most popular tours booked.

In addition to the regular day snowmobile tours, there are also overnight ski and snowmobile packages as well as two-day snowmobile accommodation packages.

Snowmobiling does book up especially over the holiday periods, so pre-booking is definately recommended to avoid disappointment.

Combine any snowmobile tour with a ski package put together by rocky-peak Ski Holidays and receive 10% OFF when pre-booked before November 15 2008.....

....and YES! this offer CAN be combined with any of the many ski specials rocky-peak Ski Holidays currently have!

What are you waiting for? Wash off your sunscreen and get your Banff snowmobile tour booked today!!

Black Bear Brown Cub

noreply@blogger.com (the Canadian specialist) — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 22:14:00 +0000

These pictures were taken just outside of Banff on the old highway, Bow Valley Parkway 1A, between Banff and Lake Louise. It is interesting as the two cubs were brown, and the mother a Black Bear. Just to confuse things, a Black Bear, can actually be brown. In Canada we call the Brown Bear a Grizzly bear. There are only 3 types of Bear in Canada: Black Bear, Grizzly Bear and Polar Bear. You will only see the Black and Grizzly in the Canadian Rockies. A Grizzly can be identified by several features including distinct shoulder hump. This hump is due to large muscles necessary for digging roots, tubers and ground squirrels.

For photographs of bears and other animals in the Western Canada, visit the summer photo gallery.

Please remember to keep at least 100 metres away from a bear if you see one, even if you are in a car. Use a telephoto lens if you want to take a picture and give the bear plenty of space. What sadly happens, know as a "bear jam" to locals, is that cars and RVs hold up the traffic to see the bear and the bear gets familiar with humans being close. Familiarisation is not good as we want them to stay wild! As soon as a bear is familiar with humans, it is much more likely to run into problems. A fed bear is a dead bear and it is a serious offence to feed any wildlife in a National or Provincial Park.

If you see a bear, cougar or wolf near Banff, please call the Warden's office immediately on 403-762-4506