For those looking for a family trip in Alberta, Canada filled with a variety of activities, this overview provides a snapshot of all the summer fun available. Click on the activity title for more detailed information about companies running the excursions.
There are activities for every age group. Just plan enough vacation time for all the fun to be had in Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper.
Summer Vacation Ideas for Fun in Alberta, Canada
Horseback Riding. Experience the back country of the Rockies and get a taste of the mountain air with a scenic horseback ride that ends with a hearty breakfast or dinner. Tour groups offer horses for every age and experience of rider, and covered wagons are available for guests who do not wish to ride horseback. Guides make the trip more enjoyable with stories and facts about the area. Sign up for rides lasting one hour or one day. Meander the banks of the Spray or Bow Rivers horseback for a different perspective.
Golf. Golfers of any skill level will enjoy the challenge and beauty of the Banff area golf courses with their undulating terrains, manicured greens and outstanding views that make all golf shots memorable. All the area courses have pro shops loaded with golf memorabilia and name brand clubs to rent.
Hiking. With over 1,000 miles of hiking trails, Banff National Park offers more opportunity to see magnificent lakes, glaciers, summits, valleys and passes than any other mountain park in the world. Learn about hiking trips that range from 30 minutes to full day excursions.
River Rafting. For young and old alike there’s a trip available for thrill seekers and novices. Enjoy the scenic splendor of the Bow River, Kananaskis River or Kicking Horse River and choose a rafting expedition that floats down a river or shoots over rapids.
Canoeing and Kayaking. Enjoy Banff National Park via a leisurely paddle at Bow River, 40 Mile Creek, Moraine Lake Lodge or at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. There are trips for paddlers of all ages.
Biking. If mountain biking gets the adrenalin pumping, rent a bike in Banff and pedal Banff National Park and head out on one trails in the vicinity of Banff Townsite except Tunnel Mountain. Most trails in the vicinity of Lake Louise Village are also designated for mountain biking except the Lake Louise Creek Trail.
Fishing. Enjoy the waters of Alberta and reel in the fish. There are all types of fishing expeditions available from fly fishing, raft fishing, trolling and even ice fishing. Fishermen 16 years or older must obtain a fishing permit.
Four-wheeling. Take the teenagers and tame the backwoods country of Banff from a beast of an ATV. Experience some off-road adventure with or without a guide. Tours range from half day to overnight.
Camping. There are over 2,400 camping sites within the 13 Banff National Park campgrounds and they are quite affordable. June through September are the most popular times to camp with July and August being the busiest. Make reservations early because it is first come, first serve.
Enjoy the Best of Alberta, Canada
It is hard to be bored in Alberta. While all activities are not appropriate for every age, most families find that there is not enough time on the vacation to try everything. When the day is done, unwind at one of the casual yet fabulous restaurants in Banff or relax at one of the charming hotels in town. Remember to check with a travel agent to book the best deals and discounts.
Suggested Reading:
Review of the Fairmont Hotels in Alberta, Canada
Kathleen Armentano - A freelance writer and website publisher, Kathleen has spent over 20 years researching and writing for B2B corporate America and graphic ...
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