Arriving in Vancouver was an interesting experience. I had always heard that it was one of the world’s most liveable cities, but after exploring downtown, I felt that it didn’t live up to my expectations. At all. Was it because the weather was cold and rainy? I’m not sure, but Vancouver simply wasn’t what I had expected. So, it was time for Plan B: drive to Banff National Park and Lake Louise as soon as possible!
I had planned to visit them anyway, but instead of taking a quick two-night trip, I decided to extend my Banff adventure to four days. And it was incredible!
My GPS estimated an eight-hour drive, so I made sure I had a comfortable car, and a fast one too. Naturally, it also came with winter tyres. After all, I was heading into the Canadian Rocky Mountains!
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Banff National Park
I have to admit that I didn’t know much about the Rocky Mountains or Banff National Park before this trip, but everyone should! It is truly one of the most beautiful national parks I have ever visited. And staying at a beautiful lodge at Lake Louise certainly added more excitement to the already amazing trip.
The scenery is spectacular, with breathtaking contrasts between glacial waters, dense forests, and rugged mountains. The wilderness has an undeniable sense of mystery. I have visited many mountains and national parks over the years, but Banff National Park and Lake Louise stand out among them all.
Remember Norway – hiking Trolltunga, the Alps – Hiking to Kampenwand, and Mont Blanc – My search for the best view?
Please note: If you plan to stop and explore Banff National Park, you will need a Park Pass.
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Emerald Lake Lodge
For my Rocky Mountain adventure, I imagined staying in a charming mountain lodge with a cosy fireplace, a warm atmosphere, and incredible views. I found exactly that at Emerald Lake Lodge, located in nearby Yoho National Park.
With its century-old fireplaces and an oak bar salvaged from an 1890s Yukon saloon, the lodge was the ideal place to unwind. The rooms had no Wi-Fi or televisions, encouraging guests to disconnect and truly relax. And that was exactly what I did.
It was freezing in the Rockies, and on my first morning, I woke to find snow covering the veranda. However, the days were sunny, and the scenery was incredibly photogenic. What a beautiful place! I loved the slower pace of life there: long breakfasts, a little work, a short walk, warming up in my room, another stroll, and finally, a delicious dinner in the main restaurant.
Walking around Emerald Lake was an amazing experience, although it was certainly chilly. Nothing that a warm winter coat couldn’t handle. Or so I thought! When I saw the other guests dressed in proper winter gear, I quickly realised that I wasn’t fully prepared for the sub-zero temperatures.
Then again, I spend most of my time in very hot countries! Emerald Lake Lodge provided the perfect retreat during my Banff National Park and Lake Louise road trip.
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Lake Louise
Once you start looking, photos of Lake Louise seem to appear everywhere online. Each one more breathtaking than the last. Were those colours even real? I couldn’t wait to find out. Luckily, the lake was only around a 20-minute drive from Emerald Lake Lodge.
Lake Louise is world-renowned for its vibrant turquoise water, framed by the Victoria Glacier and majestic mountain peaks. It is a popular hiking destination during summer and a skiing haven in winter. With Moraine Lake inaccessible during the winter because of avalanche danger, Lake Louise was an obvious must-see during my visit to Banff National Park.
However, Lake Louise is extremely popular, and it was quite busy when I arrived. Although the scenery was beautiful, I think I preferred the turquoise view of Emerald Lake from my room at the lodge. There, I could admire the incredible lake without standing outside in the cold.
It was perfect for me!
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And so…
After several amazing and relaxing days exploring the Rocky Mountains, Banff National Park and Lake Louise, it was time to drive back to Vancouver and bring my Canadian adventure to an end. My time in the mountains, together with my road trip to Niagara Falls, was one of the highlights of my travels this year. Although I didn’t spot any bears or see the northern lights, my days in the Rockies provided the perfect finale to an incredible trip.
Canada is a stunning country, and its nature and wilderness impressed me even more than its cities. However, I know there is still so much more to discover. Perhaps I will return one day. Maybe during summer for some hiking?
As for now, thank you, Canada! Now, let’s go somewhere warmer…
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