Here we are, back in Banff for the night. We had originally thought that we would make it to BC, but there were just too many hours of driving to get into the most western province with what we wanted to accomplish today. Hey, no complaints about staying in Banff - I am in love with this place!
We left Hinton this morning and made our first official stop in the town of Jasper (there were a number of little stops for pictures along the way, of course). We walked along the picturesque streets, bought some coffee, cinnamon buns and a loaf of potato bread from this cute little café called Bear Paw's Bakery. It was packed - so we knew we were in a good spot! We went to the tourism centre and got info on the Jasper Skytram - and off we went!
The Jasper Skytram is the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada. It offers incredible views of six different mountain ranges, the town of Jasper, numerous lakes and the Athabasca River. It was built in 1964 and goes to a height of 2,277 metres above sea level. It is six kilometres from the town of Jasper and crests Whistlers Mountain. Simply put, the Jasper Skytram is amazing. It took about ten minutes to get to the top of the mountain, and we felt a bit like sardines in a can with the maximum number of 26 people. Immediately upon exiting the tram, Dave and I felt like we were on top of the world. And were we ever thankful that we had packed our winter clothing as it was freezing on top of the mountain - as it should be, I know! There was lots of snow up there - yes, perhaps I shouldn't use the s-word, should I? I don't mean to tempt fate, and I promise I won't bring any home with me. The photos below will give you a better idea not only of the temperature, but of the amazing views that unfold in front of you. Such vastness. Absolutely incredible!
Our next adventure was our drive along the Icefields Parkway, one of the most spectacular on planet earth! It is a 232 kilometre stretch of double-lane highway winding along the Continental Divide through soaring rocky mountain peaks, icefields and vast sweeping valleys. We also saw glaciers, waterfalls, rock formations and emerald lakes. It was exactly what you would see in a Canadiam tourism pamphlet! We saw one of those enormous snowcoaches that carry tourists across the icefields - what an experience that must be! As we drove on the parkway, we noticed that the trees in the distance seemed to be surrounded in mist - how beautiful, we thought. Then we realized as we got closer that we were actually driving into a mini snow squall! It was really neat, but we were glad that it didn't last for long.
We have now settled into Roberto for the night - with a fully-serviced site so it feels like we are living in the lap of luxury! I am so thankful to Dave who has been the sole driver this entire trip. He keeps offering me the chance to drive Roberto, but I just don't feel confident enough. And the Rockies are definitely not the place to start! I figure I missed my chance when we were on some of those quiet Saskatchewan roads!
Thank you for continuing with me on this journey - I think we are at about the halfway point. Still lots more adventures to experience!
Love to you all,
CC
