Reviewing the various questions and feedback posed here dating back the past couple of years,I have acquired a great deal information to consider for my June 20 - 26, 2000 trip to Banff and Jasper National Parks. My wife and I will celebrate our 10 year anniversary on the 23rd. Keeping with a wedding day pledge, we need to use our passports every 5 years. While I understand passports are not required for US/Canadian travel, we couldn't pass up the favorable exchange rates. <BR> <BR>We arrive in Calgary early afternoon on the 20th. We will rent a car and drive to Banff. Lodging for the night is still up in the air as I'll explain in a moment. The 21st we will drive the Icefields Pkwy to Jasper and stay two nights at Becker's Chalets. While in the Jasper area we want to include early AM round of golf at Jasper Park Lodge, hit Maligne Lake (canoe, horseback riding, hiking) and Miette Hot Springs. Meals are up in the air. On the 23rd we'll drive the Pkwy back to Lake Louise and stay at Baker Creek Chalets on the 23rd and 24th. In the Lake Louise area we want to hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers, around either Lake Louise or the Lake Moraine area and ride the gondola to Mt. Whitehorn. Dinners possibly at the Post Hotel and Chateau Lake Louise. We plan to spend the late morning and early afternoon on the 25th in Banff, before returning to Calgary (unfortunately our flight on the 26th departs at 7AM). <BR> <BR>Finally my questions - sorry for the dissertation. 1) Should we skip Banff the first night and stay in Lake Louise on the 20th and Banff on the 24th? 2) Are we spreading ourselves too thin? I don't want to create a sense of "Come on honey, we're on the run." 3)You guys have been to the area, am I missing something better for a first trip, or hitting an attraction that is over blown or best saved for a future venture? 4) As dinning goes, what are your thoughts on Jasper and Banff? 5) Finally, Would the Post Hotel(or some other suggestion)be worth the extra $$$ for our Anniversary night 23rd, or is Baker Creek the spot (obviously the Chateau and like priced locations doesn't seem worth the squeeze to us). <BR> <BR>Thank you for the feedback. I vow to return to this site and offer my feedback as payment in kind, once I've had the chance to develop an opinion. <BR> <BR>Paul Goodwin <BR>[email protected] <BR>Des Moines, Iowa

Paul: <BR> <BR>Someone once told me that it is better to cover less of an area and see it well, than to try and cover a large area in a rush. <BR> <BR>I would reconsider some of your plans so you can get the maximum enjoyment out of this fantastic area. Maybe you should keep in mind that you just might have to come back sometime. But anyway, here are my suggestions: <BR> <BR>1. The drive from Banff to Jasper should not be rushed. The drive can take anywhere from 3.5 hours to 7 hours depending if you stop along the way. I personally would skip the Miette Hot Springs in your case. It's a good 30 minute drive north of Jasper and you just won't have time to do the golfing and Maligne Lake and Miette in the one full day that you have in Jasper. <BR>2. Your itinerary for Lake Louise sounds okay. Remember that the Plain of the Six Glaciers hike can take 4 to 5 hours. So you may have to decide between serious hiking at Moraine Lake or Lake Louise. You can always spend a couple of hours at Moraine Lake canoeing and strolling about. <BR>3. Skip the Mt. Whitehorn gondola at Lake Louise and instead make do the Sulpher Mountain Gondola Ride in Banff (the earlier in the day the better). <BR> <BR>I stayed at Becker's Chalets. They were great! Convenient location just outside of Jasper. <BR>The Post Hotel is lovely and I would pick that hotel over Chateau Lake Louise. <BR>Restaurants: The Station Restaurant in Lake Louise is nice. Walliser Stube is a great restaurant in Chateau Lake Louise. Many good restaurants to choose from. YOu will not be able to eat at them all. <BR> <BR>Paul, you don't want to spend your whole holiday in a car driving. It gets wearing after a while. Do less, enjoy more!

Paul, <BR>I agree with Nadine on all points. Your itinerary sounds pretty ambitious and you didn't include Yoho National Park or the beautiful Maligne Canyon hike. Guess you need a return trip. <BR>Besides the places already mentioned for dining (which were very good),we enjoyed St James Irish Pub in Banff for lunch, any of the restaurants at Banff Springs Hotel,Poppy Cafe at Chateau Lake Louise for lunch and Villa Caruso in Jasper. <BR>We just returned from this area (May 22nd-May 30th) and were a little early as there were some areas still not open because of snow and Lake Louise was almost frozen solid. But it was a wonderful trip and the hoardes of people were not yet there, a trade-off of sorts, I guess. <BR>By the way, we saw much wildlife (moose, black bear, etc) on our way back to Jasper from Lake Maligne and that was late in the afternoon. <BR>Have a good trip and plan to return. We do.

Oops! Forgot to tell you that the golf course at Banff Springs Hotel looks particularly challenging as we saw 20 to 30 elk in one of the fairways at one time. That is placement golf!!

The less is more view noted above makes <BR>a good deal of sense. However, do not, I repeat, do not cut out Moraine Lake. <BR>Lake Louise is wonderful, but Moraine <BR>Lake is sublime.

Paul - sounds like a great but very exhasting itinery. We visited in mid-April where just about everything was still frozen so hiking wasn't possible and we don't ski! Anyhow, to add to the information you must have gathered already from this forum, I would recommend spending some time in Banff if you get a chance - the town is nothing special but a drive round Tunnel Mountain Drive, visit to Banff Springs Hotel and Bow River Falls, the Sulphur Springs and Lake Minnewanka is picturesque. So if you spend a night in Banff then these are worth a couple hours and are a nice contrast to Lake Louise. Banff is less than 45 mins fast drive from Lake Louise. <BR> <BR>You should leave plenty of time for the Icefields Parkway - there are so many viewpoints and short as well as long walks (the Rough Guide is good on these) that a full day is the minimum. <BR> <BR>In Jasper, I would recommend the Chateau Jasper restaurant - excellent cuisine for about $40 per head and a really small place called Andy's Bistro in town (apparently he was at the Jasper Park Lodge before branching out). This was excellent value and well executed although the service is very slow. It's in the main street but is easily missed as I think it shares its entrance with a liquor store - just ask if unsure! <BR>

Plan sounds fine to me. You will see a lot and do a lot. And if you are like me, you will return to see what you missed this time. My only comment is that I have been to Maligne Lake twice and have no urge to go back. Go see Mount Edith Cavell and the Angel Glacier.

Just a note. Having been at almost every hotspring in western Canada and some of the n/w states, Miette is not one of the best, but is far from being one of the worst. Also ther is actually some pretty nice hiking past the old pool. The hotspring after a hike is actually a nice bonus, as there is a cold plunge pool, as well as two hot pools to soak your tootsies in, after the hike. In jasper avoid anything that looks like a chain restaurant. There is quite a nice greek restaurant in downtown Jasper, I believe it is called "Someplace Else" . In Banff, for an inexpensive, but filling Mexican restaurant, try the Magpie and Stump. Probably the most reasonably priced restaurant in the whole National Park. There is an awful lot to see and do in just 5 days but Going up the columbia ice fields parkway to Jasper gives you a feel for what is in the park, and isn't a bad way to go for your first visit. Actually your timing is real good, as you will be here for summer solstice, and will enjoy really long days. Enjoy your trip and welcome to Alberta.

Thank you all for your time and feedback. Your suggestions will help greatly in our experience of the Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper areas. We depart tomorrow AM and we find ourselves in the "two days ago Calgary's high was 53F and yesterday 73F - shorts or jeans," packing mode. <BR> <BR>This trip will be great, as you are all well aware. Obviously we are all atwitter. Sorry, you guys will have another chance. Web induced envy should be short lived. <BR> <BR>Anyhow, I do appreciate all your responses. I'll report back on our adventures upon our return home to this dazzling town we call the cultural hub of the Great Midwest. <BR> <BR>Paul Goodwin <BR>Des Moines, Iowa

Paul I think you are in a good position. Just about everything you do will be fun and you don't have time to do everything. The first time we went, we were scouting out the territory. Since that first trip we have been back 5 times to specific areas. Even with repeat visits, there are sights yet to be seen. So don't fret the details. <BR>Go and see and enjoy. <BR>My only suggestion is this: if you are in a time situation where you have to select between a Moraine Lake walk and the Plain of Six Glaciers, bear these two facts in mind: (1) Moraine Lake from the west end of the lake is not as pretty as it is from the east end. <BR>The angle changes and the view is not the same. (2) The Six Glaciers trail is uphill, but it leads to some great views of the glacial valleys and the mountain ridge itself. If you go all the way to the tea house, you will cover over 6 miles. Both trails are crowded. <BR>But enjoy it; you can not miss!!

Hey Guys, <BR> <BR>We're sitting in Jasper about to have a late breakfast at the Internet Cafe. Thought I'd report in. All has been fantastic, so far. The Ice Fields Pkwy was everything it's been made out to be. The first night in Banff was great. Japser was a nice change of pace. Now we're off to L. Louise. I'll report on the sites upon our return to the flatness of the Midwest. <BR> <BR>Paul in Jasper

Paul, Your trip sounds great and very similar to one I am planning for my family of six in July. We are flying into Calgary and spending eight nights in Alberta. I am thinking of splitting my time between Lake Louise and Banff. I thought we would drive to the Icefields but I don't know if we will go any farther North. Some of will play golf and horseback ride, hike and raft or fish. <BR> <BR>I am deciding between Banff Rocky Mountain Resort or Douglas Fir in Banff. Do you have any preferance? In Lake Louise we are staying at the Lake Louise Inn. Do you think that is OK? <BR> <BR>I don't know how long to stay in either area. We like to do outdoor activities and don't want to spend too much time driving. With four kids its kind of tiring. But we don't want to miss anything either. <BR> <BR>I hope someone can give me some advice as I am a little bit worried about the accomodations. And not sure if there will be enough to do in these areas. Thanks very much. Trish

One more response from our trip - hope it helps. The information we pulled from this site most certainly helped our trip. <BR> <BR>Hey Trish, <BR> <BR>Sorry I haven't responded sooner. Our trip was great. We <BR>arrived in Alberta at noon on a Tuesday and left at AM the <BR>following Monday. Of those six nights, we stayed in four <BR>locations, but with a family of six, I can imagine moving <BR>might be a drag. <BR> <BR>Night one, we stayed in Banff at the Buffalo Mountain Lodge. <BR>This place was great. I believe it's located at the same <BR>intersection as Rocky Mt Resorts and Douglas Fir. We had a <BR>car so the trip into town didn't matter. The walk didn't <BR>seem too long, as we saw more people hiking the street <BR>leading into Banff's shopping area than cars driving it. The <BR>price was $200 Canadian, which included tax, a great <BR>breakfast and picnic lunch. Ask for their hikers package. <BR> <BR>Lake Louise, nights 4 and 5 were spent at a great place <BR>called Baker Creek. They have individual cabins in the $120 <BR>US price range. If you want to check them out, ask about <BR>their suites. I'm not sure if they have 2 bedrooms. Another <BR>option is getting two cabins side by side. We thought 2 days <BR>in the LL area was plenty. While the hikes (Six Plains and <BR>Ten Peaks) were the best hikes we did on the trip, the town <BR>shouldn't get the designation of "town." In addition, the <BR>big attraction to the area, the Chateau Lake Louise, is now <BR>keeping tourists out. Airport security isn't as tight. Also, <BR>the Lake Louise area is much more of a "you need a car" area <BR>than Banff. <BR> <BR>Days 2 and 4 were spent in part on the Icefield Pkwy. Both <BR>my wife and I agree, this was our highlight. I have never <BR>been a big fan of "lets jump in the car and drive all day," <BR>but this was beautiful and well worth it. Every turn offered <BR>a view completely different from the last. As with many of <BR>the responses I received to my Fodors' posting, the drive is <BR>not to be missed or rushed. For that reason, I would suggest <BR>looking at a 2 day stay in Jasper. The drive can take the <BR>better part of an afternoon, enjoy the attractions around <BR>Jasper the next day (golf, hot spring, horseback riding, <BR>rafting) and head back in the morning if LL and Banff <BR>haven't been fully explored. <BR> <BR>Our last day we stopped in Banff for the afternoon and then <BR>headed back for Calgary. We stayed at the Airport Delta. <BR>It's connected to the airport and the room rate was $107 US <BR>for the night. I went in the hotel once we arrived and <BR>booked a room for six days later, as I wanted to check it <BR>out before we put some Class B hotel in as a bookend to our <BR>trip. The Delta is a fine place to stay. If you have the <BR>time, go Downtown for dinner. We ate at a great Irish joint. <BR>I don't have the name handy. Let me know if it sound like an <BR>option. In fact, let me know if you want any suggestions on <BR>places for dinner, drop me a quick e-mail. We used a number <BR>of the suggestions I received from my posting. Anyhow, if <BR>you get to Downtown Calgary, check out the cow sculptures. <BR> <BR>I'm certain you'll have a great trip. I'd be happy to answer <BR>any other questions you might have. Otherwise, enjoy and as <BR>was repeated numerous time to me, take plenty of film. <BR> <BR>Paul Goodwin <BR>Des Moines, IA <BR>[email protected]

I am planning a similiar trip but will drive from Spokane Washington to Banff. My friend and I were going to stay the first night in Banff. I am actually thinking of hostels as we are both teachers and we are on strict budgets but want to see beautiful scenery. Then we were going to stay in Lake Louise two nights. Then drive the Icefields with two nights in Jasper and then one more in Lake Louise and then spend one night in Calgary. Is this reasonable? Should we skip Calgary? We don't care about the stampede. We want beauty and hiking and seeing wildlife. We drive from Spokane on July 13th and return to Spokane by the evening of July 20th. Any other suggestions. I read all of Pauls posting and jotted down his ideas. We will spluge on some nice meals and do picnics and stay in hostels with cooking facilities. Thanks Lynn

Lynn, if you are thinking of hostels during or around Stampede time, you may be disappointed. I believe they are all booked and have been for some time. You should see if you can get a reservation first. Check out www.discoveralberta.com for more information and good luck in finding something. It is so busy around that time.

Regarding dining in Banff and Lake Louise, we were disappointed in our dinners at the Bow Valley Grill in the Banff Springs Hotel and at the Poppy Restaurant in Chateau Lake Louise - overpriced, poor quality, poor service, poor presentation. We had an exceptional meal, however, at the Moraine Lake Lodge. The restaurant and the lodge are only open four months out of the year, as the road to Moraine Lake is closed much of the time. I have not seen this restaurant reviewed in any guidebook, but it is definately the finest meal we had in the area.

Thanks for the tip Flora regarding The Moraine Lake Lodge as being an exceptional dining area. I took your advice and found their WEB site and made reservations for our family for July 13th, the last night we will be in the L.Louise area. You know, we have been to Toronto, Montreal, Niagra Falls and NF on the Lake, and we always enjoy our meals in Canada. You have some really great chefs. I still remember the watercress soup in Montreal. Yum! Half of the fun in traveling to Canada is your food! <BR>

This message board sequence was invaluable when planning my trip to the Canadian Rockies. Thank You!