In my growing up years, a trip to Banff National Park was a special treat, often including members of my mother’s family. She grew up in a large family, on a farm in central Alberta where there was always a lot of work to do. There were times, between the spring seeding season and the autumn harvesting season, that a trip to the mountains was possible. I don’t remember that anyone had a trailer, but those who could stay overnight were snug in their tent, or in a cozy cabin.
Of course, there was lots of food, much a which had been prepared at home. Home-made buns, hand-shaped hamburger patties, along with everyone’s favorite dill pickles and relishes. Potato salads, sticks of celery stuffed with peanut butter, and jugs of lemonade, were a ‘must’. The climax of the meal were fresh-baked pies, filled with rhubarb from the garden, or saskatoons or gooseberries, picked in the valley on the farm.
Our camping destination was not in or near the town of Banff, but by Johnston Canyon, about a 30 minute drive from the town. When we could see Castle Mountain ahead, we knew that we were getting close to the canyon. Everyone, even including the youngest children, could manage the hike along the safe and guarded path to the falls. The sound of the water falls, and the breeze through the trees on a summer day, added to the pleasure of the experience.
If you ever have the opportunity to come to the Canadian Rockies, no matter in what season, take the time to visit Johnston Canyon. In the winter, the Icewalk traverses several steel catwalks that provide spectacular views of the canyon below. This is a great winter experience, especially for those who have no desire or ability to strap on snow skis at any of the ski resorts.
And... don’t forget to visit the Banff Upper Hot Springs swimming pool before retiring for the night. Sitting in a very warm pool, with icicles in your hair, is a great preamble to a very restful sleep.
Tags: A-Z Challenge Rockies Family