Photography courtesy of Banff Lake Louise Tourism / Paul Zizka Photography
With the Calgary Stampede and hot, hot summers, it’s easy to see why Alberta is one of Canada’s top destinations during the warmer months. But even as summer wanes into fall, there’s still plenty to do (and a few less tourists) in this province of mountains, lakes and cities. Here are five reasons to pack your bags for the Canadian destination this fall.
Go For the Adventure
Alberta is known for it’s amazing dedication to nature and the outdoors but in between summer canoeing and downhill skiing stage, there are still loads of opportunities to explore and get in touch with your adventurous side. Case in point, Banff Norquay’s newly opened Via Ferrata, where you can strap on your mountain climbing gear and get to work scaling the rocky cliffs, traipsing along suspension bridges and going up ladders (with a certified guide, of course) for some of the most impressive views of the region.
Go For the Food (even if you’re not a certified foodie)
Alberta’s food scene is growing, and growing fast, especially in the heart of Calgary’s busy streets. The biggest trend hitting the city? Farm-to-table, which is easy when the country-side is at your backdoor. Hit up Calgary’s Model Milk restaurant, set in a historic dairy building, where you can nibble on local cheeses, locally sourced veggies and fruits, and meats (from beef to ox and Pacific sablefish).
Go For the Lake Louise Fall Festival
Easily one of Alberta’s biggest draws, Lake Louise is that picture-perfect setting, that also happens to host a fall festival from September 5th to October 5th. The best way to take in those fall colours in the mountains? By horseback (where your tour takes you through Lake Agnes or Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House), by kayak, canoeing or hiking the many trails before tucking into dinner and drinks.
Go For the Calgary International Film Festival
Toronto’s Film Fest might get a ton of hype, but Calgary’s festival for flicks showcasing over 200 films is generating some major buzz too, minus the pomp and circumstance that has grown with Toronto’s festival. The 11-day fest goes form September 18th to 20th this year and is a great chance to catch the hottest indie, international and Canadian films.
Go For the Banff Hot Springs
What better way to ease into cooler temperatures and eventually winter than taking a dip in the hot springs in Banff? Book yourself a full tour lantern tour of the caves and springs, plus Sulphur Mountain, or just simple trek up to get warm in the soothing waters (that also do wonders for your skin).
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