By John Lindell
Banff National Park, located in the Canadian province of Alberta, is 2,564 square miles in area. Banff National Park is west of the major Canadian hub of Calgary and is among North America's favorite destinations when it comes to parks, with as many as four million people visiting the park annually. Home to numerous wildlife species and geological wonders, Banff National Park was made a park in 1885, the first of
Canada's national parks.
Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is a spectacular hotel and spa that accommodates guests from all over the world. It is located near the town of Banff and has its own world-class golf course.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is a magnificent glacial lake within Banff National Park's boundaries. The water is a vivid emerald green color and activities such as fishing, hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking and rock climbing are available.
Chateau Lake Louise
On the shore of Lake Louise is the Chateau Lake Louise, another world-class resort. Built in the late 1800s, it has been open year round since 1982 and nature lovers go there so that they can enjoy the splendid beauty of the lake in its mountain setting.
Skiing
Banff includes some of Canada's top ski resorts, including Sunshine Villgae, which features 3,500 acres of ski slopes. There are 107 ski runs on the resort's three mountains and the region has an annual snowfall average of as much as 30 feet.
Wildlife
Moose, mountain goat, bighorn sheep, caribou, mule deer, lynx, bobcat, cougars and grizzly bears call Banff National Park home. Among the many other mammal species found there are the grey wolf, brown bear, elk, fisher, wolverine, pine marten and porcupine.
About the Author:
John Lindell has written articles for "The Greyhound Review" and various other online publications. A Connecticut native, his work specializes in sports, fishing and nature. Lindell worked in greyhound racing for 25 years.
