dodging mountains in the karaoke minivan
The mountains were calling, so we answered!
Alberta, Canada, is a province built on transitions. You could dance in the prairies one moment and be peering over the ledge of the Canadian Rocky Mountains another. A natural perspective changer when you realize in the scheme of things where we stand.
The first sounds we heard from the backseat as we got our first glimpse of the foothills was ‘Woooow'! As our route took us deeper into the mountains, the Toyota Sierra minivan frequently revved higher rpms to muster gusto to climb the steep roads. Next a game of pinball proceeded as we gazed to the left then back to the right. No one wanted to miss a glimpse of the mountain peaks. The view out each window was a perfect postcard with no retouching required!
As if the view wasn’t breathtaking enough, we pulled over and opened the door for the kids to stretch their legs. As they flew out of their seats there was an odd silence before everyone realized the fresh mountain air had taken their breath away. They laughed and stood there inhaling deeply, realizing how pure mountain air was. It was a moment I wish I had known would take place. It was a moment I wish I had captured on video. It was a moment that I know each of us will not forget. That chilling mountain air was so refreshing.
Our travel route took us from the Calgary airport to Jasper via Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 N.). The drive had a few bathroom breaks, that were likely excuses for everyone to inhale more of that incredible mountain air. We only found one point to fill up with gas, so ensure to top up prior to departing! As well ensure to pack snacks or maybe even a meal as there are VERY few points of civilization during the 230-kilometer mountain road. It ran through the heart of Banff and Jasper National Parks and took us about 4 hours to complete.
We arrived in Jasper to discover the entire town is on the west side of the street. It is as if it was planned that way so no matter where you are on the main street you have a clear view to see a breathtaking mountain ridge.
Our accommodation at The Crimson proved to be clean, and quiet for a solid night’s sleep after a long travel day. We awoke refreshed and headed to the highly recommended Bears Paw Bakery. I received the recommendations from a friend in Ontario as a must taste as even Opera approved while visiting Jasper! It did not disappoint! We looked for reasons to return a second time while in Jasper.
Driving between the bases of the Canadian Rockies is one site to be seen, however the view one holds when at the top looking down, enlightened us with a far different perspective. We travelled up to the top of The Whistlers Mountain via the Jasper Skytram, the highest and longest guided aerial tramway in Canada. We were greeted at its peak with lots of snow and of course took advantage of a snow fight [See picture]! Parents won hands down! Due to the variety of weather conditions that can be experienced at upper elevations, wearing layers is key. A path to the summit was steps away from us but we declined, as the risk of frostbite was warned due to not being equipped with the proper attire. Instead, we chose to experience the mountain top views in the fresh air and then head in for warm cup of mountain top Starbucks! Ensure your camera is charged up, as the images captured atop that mountain remain favourites.
At the conclusion of our visit to Jasper, we were tempted research an alternative way to head back to Calgary but decided to return the same route we came on. I am glad we did this as the trip up and the return trip back down from Jasper appear completely different in perspective and beauty. We turned on some ‘Take me home, country roads’ by John Denver and karaoke ensued (in between the frequent ‘Aww’ heard viewing the scenery)!
When we chatted with local tour guides and locals we encouraged one more stop prior to leaving the area and that was at Athabasca Falls. It is located 30 minutes south of Jasper, inside Jasper National Park. We frequently follow such recommendations as it takes us to places that tend not be as commercialized. We were speechless to discover the falls was a hidden gem of beauty. The colour of the frigid river was aquamarine green that flowed with a calm power over and beyond the falls. Don’t stay up at the top, take the trails scribed out by years of water flowing through to the lower water’s edge. Tranquility will surround you. A moment I continue to replay on repeat in my mind. The river basin was filled with many stone Inukshuks, symbolizing safety, hope and friendship. Ours once stood there and we hope is one of those still standing.
Once again, we headed for our Toyota chariot, loading efficiently, and headed south. A few hours into the drive, we stopped at Columbia Ice-field to see how close we could to ice. This was yet another perspective adjustment as our eyes played tricks on us. We parked in the parking area and started following the path the Icefield. We discovered quickly what appeared to be a small path turned on to be a consistent incline to get to the ices edge where the people looked like ants. It was that far, so if you come to make the hike, ensure you are once again dressed for the weather.
Our final home base was in Banff at the beautiful and centrally located Moose Hotel & Suites. Our favourite features were the two rooftop hot pools, delicious onsite restaurant, and polite staff. Just steps away to the downtown it was convenient for short- or full-day wanderers.
During an overcast day we took a drive to soak in the outdoor Radium Hot Springs, a relaxing and mesmerizing experience for young and the not so young.
Leaving the mountains proved to be more difficult that entering them. There was a silence in the ride and regret that our mountain time had come to an end. However, every person in our group made one promise as they watched the Rockies reduce back to the foothills, then to the prairies. That promise was one to return to the mountains once again. We all know the promise will be kept once the silent mountains start calling out so loudly, again.
