My wife,Mini and I are planing a trip up to Banff and Jasper in Sept. from Oregon. It looks like beautiful country to cruise around in any advice would be welcome. I am thinking of staying in Canmore and use that as a base, the lodging seems more affordable there. Thanks for any Info....

 

Sorry, can't help, but I agree, Banff looks absolutely awesome. I'll check in and see if you get any info. Someone here has to have some info.

 

Take Highway 1A from Banff to Lake Louise (scenic twisty) and then Lake Louise to Jasper (Ice Fields Parkway #93). This trip is great that time of year as most of the camper traffic is gone (late Sept), but can get snow any time of the year at the higher elevations, bring warm clothing.
Can do the drive to Jasper in one day, but should stop often to observe wildlife, glaciers etc, or walk/hike into water falls etc. An very early start to the day and a late ending will make for a very rewarding time. Bring Binoculars. Spend some time in Jasper as it is very quite and peaceful and not too commercial, lots of short easy hikes near the town (elk everywhere). Returning to Banff the same way will seem like you are on a different road as new vistas on every turn, plus you can stop at the points of interest that were skipped on the way to Jasper. If you are using Canmore as a base, a trip into Kananaskis Country down Highway 40 is also worth the time. Check with the Calgary MINI club at MINIcalgary.com maybe someone has more info.

 

Thank-you very much for the info I was trying to decide if it was to far for a day trip. Lodging in Jasper is $$$$ I don't mind driving all day just didn't want to race up and back. I will take your advice and check local Mini web site. If I can ever return the favor on travel in Oregon please ask...Al,Julie and Winston < the MINI

 

Your Welcome
I was just reminded about the toll on that road which is a 1 year National Park pass that sells for about $70 Can., so just a heads up.


Found this on Wikipedia

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Icefields_Parkway

 

WOW thanks for the heads up.....

 

Been a while since we've been, but the whole area is gorgeous. Make sure you at least stop by Chateau Lake Louise, maybe hike up to the tea house, well worth it.

 

Stayed in the lodge at Jasper that Can. National Railroad used to own..
It was just beautiful..

 

Another quick note..I think the hotel
is Lobstick Lodge Hotel..94 Geikie Street..Jasper, Alberta
recently renovated..

 

Thank-you keep it coming we are taking notes