Traveling to Banff in Feb!
Jan 3rd, 2014, 10:51 PM
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Traveling to Banff in Feb!
I've always wanted to go to Banff! But, I was thinking about a summer trip.
Instead, I have a group of friends going Feb 2014. So, this is a great opportunity for a photo trip!
In terms of photography, is this a good time to go? I'd be driving, so I have good access to get around. But, I didn't know if this would be all snow covered or what the opportunities would be like - I just picture the amazing images of mountains, lakes, etc, didn't know if it would just be snow and snow covered trees or if this is a good time for this kind of trip (photography!).
I'd appreciate any advice on the timing! Then, I'll continue to look through forums for advice on places to go, photograph, etc. Any tips for this time of year would be so greatly appreciated!
Thanks!
Instead, I have a group of friends going Feb 2014. So, this is a great opportunity for a photo trip!
In terms of photography, is this a good time to go? I'd be driving, so I have good access to get around. But, I didn't know if this would be all snow covered or what the opportunities would be like - I just picture the amazing images of mountains, lakes, etc, didn't know if it would just be snow and snow covered trees or if this is a good time for this kind of trip (photography!).
I'd appreciate any advice on the timing! Then, I'll continue to look through forums for advice on places to go, photograph, etc. Any tips for this time of year would be so greatly appreciated!
Thanks!
Jan 4th, 2014, 07:11 AM
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Even if "just snow" the amazing blue skies, dark green firs, grey peaks, light and shadows and perhaps some wildlife will fill your lens with awesome pictures. Take care driving as winters here can leave roads in challenging conditions and have lots of windshield washer fluid.
Jan 6th, 2014, 11:18 AM
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February is definitely a great time for photography - but it will be all about snow & ice.
A few thoughts...
You will need to be flexible - February weather can be anything from blue sky to blizzard. So some days may be great for photographer, and others great for sitting in front of a fire. You might get some great shots around Lake Louise, or if you can find a place with good views up to where people ice climb (Lake Louise, along the Icfields, around Canmore).
There will be some places like Moraine Lake you can't get to by car because roads are closed for the season. You also need to have snow tires if you want to drive on the Icefields Highway, as well as experience with winter driving conditions. Remember that in the winter there are no facilities/gas/stores between Lake Louise & Jasper, there is generally no cell reception and the road is not plowed/patrolled between 4pm and 8am. So it's not a place to venture if the conditions are iffy. You can drive along, but pull offs may not be plowed and with the avalanche risk, you do not want to be stopping in any of the avalanche areas or venturing beyond the pull offs.
Also, others have mentioned - the days will still be quite short, so your window of light is not that long. Right now we have about 7.5-8 hours of daytime.
Have fun!
Kate
A few thoughts...
You will need to be flexible - February weather can be anything from blue sky to blizzard. So some days may be great for photographer, and others great for sitting in front of a fire. You might get some great shots around Lake Louise, or if you can find a place with good views up to where people ice climb (Lake Louise, along the Icfields, around Canmore).
There will be some places like Moraine Lake you can't get to by car because roads are closed for the season. You also need to have snow tires if you want to drive on the Icefields Highway, as well as experience with winter driving conditions. Remember that in the winter there are no facilities/gas/stores between Lake Louise & Jasper, there is generally no cell reception and the road is not plowed/patrolled between 4pm and 8am. So it's not a place to venture if the conditions are iffy. You can drive along, but pull offs may not be plowed and with the avalanche risk, you do not want to be stopping in any of the avalanche areas or venturing beyond the pull offs.
Also, others have mentioned - the days will still be quite short, so your window of light is not that long. Right now we have about 7.5-8 hours of daytime.
Have fun!
Kate
Jan 6th, 2014, 11:34 AM
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Been to Banff and Lake Louise area several times on week long ski trips in winter. Winter beauty abounds and Banff has great places to dine at night or just have fun with your friends. The Bow Valley parkway is full of stunning views ( if its open) http://www.tripadvisor.ca/Attraction...k_Alberta.html.
