The Canadian RockiesAndrew McCauley

September 2010

Mountains

South of Banff, Alberta, Canada, is the Banff Gondola. The 8 minute ride takes you to the peak of Sulphur Mountain where there is a restaurant, gift shop, the start of the Banff Skywalk and the observation deck from which this picture was taken.

Below Sulphur Mountain is system of hiking trails. At the trailhead is a small, covered area that has a nice view of Banff townsite's valley home.

On the next page:At the end of the Banff Skywalk is Sanson’s Peak Meteorological Station, a stone observatory built in 1903. The northeast deck of the observatory offers an impressive view of several mountain ranges.

Water

The three shallow lakes that make up Vermilion Lakes are on the edge of a wetland area and home to a wide variety of wildlife and vegetation. I saw the vegetation, but not the wildlife.

This stream is tucked behind a small rest stop off on the Trans-Canada Highway.

On the next page:"Make sure you go to Lake Louise." I heard this over and over when people found out I was going to Banff. The morning light on the mountains surrounding the deep blue water is the iconic, must-get photograph.

Canoes rentals are available on Lake Louise's shore. Only two people braved the chilly morning to take in the sunrise from the middle of lake in a bright red canoe.

Forest

The forest that covers much of the valley supplied a fantastical environment where almost anything could take place.

I found this bowl interesting. This picture succeeds in putting you right there in the forest and facing the need to make a decision - where do you go from here?

Moss covers some of the jagged, severe edges of rocks, making them slightly more inviting and comfortable. Slightly.

The aspen trees wore their fall colors confidently among the evergreens.

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