Article Presented by:
Travel Alberta, All Rights Reserved Written by: Travel Alberta
It almost goes without saying that hiking in the Rocky Mountains is a free activity. The same is true of mountain biking, provided you bring your wheels with you. Otherwise, you'll need to rent. For a rare mountain treat, though, it's tough to beat swimming. What's that? You thought the water would be too cold? It's true that the lakes at this elevation are mostly snow run-off from the mountains, but there are a few gems that provide a cool in the chilly sense of the word opportunity to shed the heat of a hot summer day. One in particular is found just off Minnewanka Lake Road, close to Banff. Take the turnoff to Johnson Lake, and you'll find a small sandy beach at the foot of crystal clear waters fringed by majestic mountains. It's a favorite spot with the locals (and somewhat of a local secret) so you won't find a lot of crowds at this charming swimming hole.
History and Culture
As Canada's first National Park, Banff is rich with historical and cultural attractions, many of which are free to enjoy. At Canada Place, open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., May through September, you can discover Canada in a variety of family-oriented interactive exhibits that highlight the land and people of Canada. You'll find another free attraction close by, at the colorful Cascade Gardens, where a traditional teepee is set up from July to September. This is the Siksika Nation Interpretive Centre, where interpreters can introduce you to the lore and culture of the mountain-based Siksika Nation. Every Tuesday at noon, the centre puts on a free display of drumming and dancing.
Truly "Campy" Entertainment
In all of the Rocky Mountain parks, campgrounds are a hotspot of activity. They're also excellent places to enjoy free entertainment. Many campgrounds have amphitheatres, where park interpreters stage live drama and educational theatre programs. Always a hit with families, the campground theatre programs are more than just free ¦they're also fun.
Music in the Mountains
There's something almost spiritual about music played at this altitude. And something almost heavenly about the price...nothing! A local favorite in Banff is the Serenade at St. George's (June 21, 28, July 5, 12, 19, 26, August 2, 9) held in the evenings at St. George's In The Pines Anglican Church on Beaver Street. The chamber music is truly uplifting. For daytime music in Banff, be sure to check out Music at Noon (June 22, 29, July 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28, August 3, 4, 10, 11) held at Rolston Recital Hall in the world-famous Banff Centre for the Performing Arts. Here, the music on tap ranges from baroque to classical, and from jazz to contemporary. Not far away, in Canmore, you can enjoy more musical treats in a mountain setting. At Canmore Mondays (June 20, 27, July 4, 11, 18, 25) you can listen to soloists and chamber musicians fill Creekside Hall with their inspiring notes.
Knock Knock!
On June 18 and 19 in Banff, you get the chance to enter buildings you might not otherwise have access to and learn about the historical, cultural or architectural significance of some of Banff's finest buildings. It's all part of Doors Open Banff, with sites open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both days. The Doors Open Banff Information Centre is located in the Old Crag and Canyon Cabin at the corner of Lynx Street and Bear Street, and brochures will be available at Banff Town Hall and the Visitor Information Centre.
Sweet and Savory
When you're strolling the streets of Banff, Jasper, Canmore and Waterton, you'll be tempted by the sights and smells of candy, barbecues and restaurants galore. Some even offer free samples and treats. For example, it's not unusual to pick up a chunk of fudge at the Fudgery on Banff Avenue. And if you stop at Melissa's Restaurant & Bar on Lynx Street in Banff, you can treat yourself to free popcorn.
About the Author:
Copyright © 2006 Travel Alberta, All Rights Reserved
Travel Alberta is the destination marketing organization for the Province of Alberta. Guided by the Strategic Tourism Marketing Council, Travel Alberta is the steward for the effective delivery of tourism marketing programs. For information about our organization, please visit our Travel Alberta industry web site at http://www.travelalberta.com
