Thx MiWinnie and Tdelony.

Thought I would give my two cents. I recently took a trip to the Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise area. (I have spent time in GNP montana and other parts in the rockies as well) I have also been to Zermatt, Chamonix and Interlaken in Switzerland/France.

The main difference between the two is the size of the land and distances between towns. As Judy mentioned, the distances between towns are much greater in Canada. IMHO, Zermatt is the quintessential ski town. The town is accessed solely by narrow gauge train and no cars are permitted in town. Everyone who stays there walks to the ski slopes/gondola. On the other hand, Lake Louise/Banff, again, IMHO, you'll need a car. You may take Judy's suggestions on itinerary as 10 days is probably too long to stay in one area. You may want to do a search for available ski slopes in the Banff area and spread your time between the slopes if that is your interest.

Both places are great vacation spots. Try it and see if you like it.

Thx Mr. Midwest. Very interesting comments by someone who can compare various ski experiences

I was thinking to spend a small week in Lake Louise @ the Posthotel and 4 nights or so in Banff at the Buffalo Mountains.

What are the temperatures in Feb? Both places are not that high (1380m for Lake Louise which is higher than Banff if I am not mistaking.) On the weather chanel, average temps in celsius are -5 to 0. Is it really that mild??? or should I brace with glacial temperatures?







What re the temps in February

Are you sure that those temperatures you saw weren't -5F to 0F?? That sounds closer to reality. February is one of the coldest months. I would not expect temperatures above -10C, and prepare for -20C or below.

I am glad to see you are now planning a couple of days in Banff. I would suggest tilting the balance a little more in favour of Banff though, at least 5 and 5.

Thx Sockboy.

That's what I thought.... Brrrr.

Any tips from anybody re: Buffalo Mountain Lodge? in addition to the reviews on the hotel section of Fodor's?

Thinking about this area in early December. Is this a good time to go there if you don't do winter sports? Do they do the ice castle and sleigh rides this early in the winter?