Looking for a way to play up your summer visit to Banff? Beat the crowds by checking out a few of these earth friendly, off-the-beaten-path activities in and around Canada’s first national park.
1. Stand-Up Paddleboarding. The shores of Johnson Lake may be buzzing with beach bums enjoying the brief summer heat, but few are brave enough to test out the glacial waters – meaning more room for you and your paddleboard! Spray Lakes Reservoir in Canmore is another local favourite amongst SUP-ers. Lessons are recommended for beginners, although not necessary – it just means you might get a little chilly figuring it out solo. Bow Valley Stand Up Paddleboarding offers lessons, half-day to weeklong rentals and PDFs, and inflatable boards if you’re tight for travel space.
2. Riversurfing. A short drive from Banff will bring the seas to the fir trees with this different way to hit the waves. Although the flooding that devastated the Bow Valley last June wiped out the Kananaskis River stationary waves, new waves have been tapped for landlocked surfers to hit their boards once again. Swimming experience is essential for this activity and surfing experience an asset, but have no fear – Rocky Mountain River Surfing offers everything beginners need to get started.
3. AcroYoga. You don’t have to wander far for this up-and-coming practice, classes are offered right in the town of Banff. Combining the balance and wisdom of yoga with the dynamic power of acrobatics, AcroYoga will develop trust, vulnerability, and community through the art of letting go with your partner. Currently the only Acro Yoga teacher in Banff, check out Tami Lumney’s page Tami Lyn Yoga to find out more.
4. Disc Golf. Don’t want to break your wallet to get in a round? Trade in your driver for a disc, and head to the Canmore Nordic Centre’s beautiful yet challenging 18-hole disc golf course. Remember, to pack out what you pack in, and be conscientious of other park users and nearby homeowners. And don’t forget your bug spray.
5. Aurora Chasing. Experience one of the most beautiful night shows that Banff has to offer – the Northern Lights! On a strong night, the display will overpower the light pollution in town, but Vermillion Lakes have been known to provide an impressive display on such nights, just a short walk or bike ride from town. Camera-savvy viewers need just a DSLR, a tripod and some patience to experiment to get some truly phenomenal Canadian Rockies souvenirs.
Experience the Rockies from these new perspectives and you’ll be sure to gain a deeper experience of the endless opportunities that the mountains have to offer (you may even just move here…).
