Towering over the provinces of Alberta and British Columbia are the majestic Canadian Rockies. With several world-class attractions and heritage sites, the Rockies are an international travel destination with something to offer everyone in all seasons. Book accommodations in the Canadian Rockies, and enjoy world-class ski resorts, hiking trails, indescribable views, wildlife at your fingertips, and a peace that you will wish you could take home with you. Communities to explore include:

Kananaskis and Canmore

Get ready to play in this premier recreation paradise, where bird watching, photography and every possible outdoor recreation activity is offered. At the end of the day, relax in one of several day spas in Canmore.

Kananaskis Country, located southwest of Calgary, comprises five provincial parks as well as the resort village of Kananaskis itself. This is recreation central: take advantage of beautiful scenery, bird watching (bird migrations in October are especially impressive!), and wildlife spotting. Get ready to see elk, deer, Rocky Mountain sheep, bears, snowshoe hares, and moose. Nearby Canmore is home to a cave system known as the 'Rats Nest', and with a guide, visitors have the opportunity to embark on an in-depth exploration of these mountain caves. Hiking companies offer escorted hikes deep into the Rockies, and Aboriginal guides teach about native traditions on horseshoe and cross-country skiing trips. Stay in Kananaskis Country and indulge your sporty side!

Banff and Banff National Park

World-renowned Banff National Park offers a small-town experience in the midst of the stunning Rocky Mountains. Spend the day skiing at one of three world-class ski resorts, camp out for the night, explore nearby caves and springs, cross-country ski spectacular trails, and relax in natural hot springs to unwind. The rumors are true: Banff is spectacular.

Imagine yourself away from the rush of city life, amidst shimmering glaciers, waterfalls, mountain pastures, and wildlife. Located just 128 km (80 mi.) from Calgary, Banff hosts four million visitors each year, yet still maintains its cozy small-town feel, making it a hot spot for visitors year round. Hop on the Banff Gondola and ride up Sulphur Mountain where three levels of observation decks offer a 360-degree view of Banff and the mountains surrounding the park. The Banff Upper Hot Springs (one of several hot springs in the area) is a historic spa and bathhouse set against the stunning Rocky Mountain scenery - talk about relaxation. The springs are 39 degrees C (102 F) year-round and offer visitors the opportunity to relax and rejuvenate in the beautiful surroundings of Banff National Park. Banff is also home to three world-class ski resorts, so don't be surprised if everyone you meet has flown in from afar for the unparalleled ski conditions. Banff National Park with all its natural riches is the perfect place to enjoy all the Rocky Mountains has to offer.

Lake Louise

Stand in awe at the sight of the green-blue waters of Lake Louise, in front of the towering Victoria Glacier. Ski at this internationally renowned destination, or cross-country ski, hike, horseback ride or bike Lake Louise's world-class trails. White water rafting on four nearby rivers is also popular with the thrill-seeking tourist.

For a peaceful escape, check out Lake Louise, a crystal blue-green lake set against the backdrop of the Victoria Glacier (known as the 'Jewel of the Rockies') located 183 km (114 mi.) northwest of Calgary. Standing at the lakeside, its colour seems almost impossibly teal. Lake Louise must be seen to be believed. Hiking to the tops of lofty mountains, cross-country skiing, soaking at a spa or natural hot spring, canoeing … these are ingredients for a perfect day at Lake Louise. If you're in for a thrilling adventure, check out the escorted whitewater rafting tours for both beginners and more advanced rafters. The Brewster Lake Louise Stables offers guided horseback rides to the Plain of Six Glaciers or Lake Agnes. In the wintertime hop on a sleigh ride at the Chateau Lake Louise that will take you all the way to the end of Lake Louise. The Lake Louise sightseeing gondola is a fourteen-minute ride to a 6850 ft (2088 m) elevation where the surrounding region can be seen from a bird's eye view. Book accommodations in Lake Louise, and see this blue-green wonder of nature for yourself!

The Columbia Icefield

The largest ice field south of Alaska, the Columbia Icefield will astonish you. Walk around on glacial ice at Athabasca Glacier in Jasper National Park, and taste pure glacial waters.

Drive through this unique region alongside a chain of massive ice fields, and experience truly 'Canadian' sights of sparkling glacial ice and crisp snow. This type of scenery is generally expected to be found in Alaska; in fact, the Columbia Icefield is the largest ice field south of Alaska. Covering 389 sq km (233 sq mi), this territory is something every visitor to the Canadian Rockies should see. Several guided tours of the ice field are available, and you can even walk around on the Athabasca Glacier in Jasper National Park, as well as have a taste of pure glacial water!

Jasper and Jasper National Park

Visitors to Jasper enjoy wildlife and nature untouched, unspoiled. Viewpoints overlooking falls, hot springs, lakes, ranching communities, and unparalleled wildlife experiences await you here in Jasper National Park.

Covering 10,800 sq. km (4170 sq. mi.) of land, Jasper National Park is a protected mountain ecosystem allowing visitors to enjoy nature through exploration and outdoor activities. Jasper is a 309 km (192 mi.) drive from Edmonton. Check out Athabasca Falls and the beautiful view offered at several points along the falls. If you have the time, stay awhile and picnic, or go cross-country skiing. Goat Lookout also offers stunning views as well as a picnic area where mountain goats and bighorn sheep can be seen. Several nearby lakes offer family fun in both winter and summer seasons. Plan the perfect day at the Miette Hotspring, the hottest in the Canadian Rockies, with trails and picnicking areas nearby. You can travel with one of the park's accredited guides for an extended hike deep into the wilderness, and can even stay the night with a wilderness pass. Cardinal Ranch offers horse-whispering demonstrations, as well as overnight campouts via horseback. Grand Cache, Alberta is the gateway to Willmore Wilderness Park, where you will find trails, big game, flowers, lakes and rivers only accessible by foot or on horseback. For a longer stay in Jasper National Park, consider the Jasper Institute's courses on natural and historical topics such as photography, bears and wildlife. However long you are able to spend in Jasper, you will wish you stayed longer. Book a Jasper accommodation today.