Day Seven of our Canadian Rockies Train Journey: Exploring Banff’s Natural Wonders
Rocky Mountaineer train. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick
Posted September 6, 2008
As part of our unforgettable Canadian Rockies train journey aboard the Rocky Mountaineer, day seven brought us to the heart of Banff National Park. After arriving last night, we checked into the Douglas Fir Resort & Chalets, a tranquil retreat nestled in a secluded, forested area just above the town of Banff. Our cozy two-level loft chalet, complete with a real fireplace and a fully-equipped kitchen, offered stunning views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and plenty of small wildlife sightings—pure bliss! To our delight, the kitchen was stocked with breakfast essentials like bacon, eggs, and coffee, setting the stage for a peaceful morning.
Across the street, we found a couple of dining options—a local hostel and another resort, each offering distinct experiences. We opted for the finer dining option at the resort, enjoying a delicious meal while settling into our stay.
Ian working away inside our Douglas Fir chalet. Photo: Tonya Fitzpatrick
Brewster Discover Banff Sightseeing Tour
We rose early, greeted by an overcast and chilly morning, eager to embark on the Brewster Discover Banff Sightseeing Tour. This comprehensive tour took us to some of Banff’s most iconic natural attractions. We began by marveling at the towering hoodoos—wind-sculpted rock formations that rise dramatically above the valley. Next, we visited Surprise Corner along Tunnel Mountain Drive, a viewpoint that provided sweeping views of Bow Valley Falls and the stunning valley below, framed by the towering Sulphur Mountain.
One of the highlights of the tour was exploring a hot sulfur spring inside a cave, a surreal experience that transported us back to nature’s ancient geothermal wonders. From there, we made our way to the base of the Banff Gondola for a ride up the mountain, climbing through clouds to breathtaking, panoramic views.
Banff Gondola: Spectacular Peak-to-Peak Views
On our way up the mountain in the gondola, we struck up a conversation with Nigel Allom, a fellow traveler from Australia who is taking a year off to explore North America. (You’ll be hearing more from Nigel on our upcoming shows!) Despite the thick clouds near the base, the views at the summit were nothing short of spectacular. Clear skies revealed stunning peak-to-peak vistas of the surrounding mountains—a moment that felt like we had ascended into heaven itself.
During the ride up the mountain we met a new friend, Nigel Allom, a lovely fellow traveler from Australia who is taking one year out of his life to travel. (Incidentally, Nigel will be appearing on our show a few times over the next few months as he discovers North American. Also, it is noteworthy to share that this is the second time Nigel has spent a year traveling.) The views from the top were spectacular. Although the heavy cloud coverage near the base of the gondola prevented us from seeing the village below, the peak to peak views of the surrounding mountains and the clear skies provided an amazing view. It was like heaven!
Lake Minnewanka Boat Tour: Exploring Banff’s Hidden Gem
After a morning filled with scenic beauty, we headed back into town for a quick bite of “pub grub” before making our way to Lake Minnewanka. Located just a short drive from Banff, this glacial lake is one of the crown jewels of Banff National Park. We joined a 1.5-hour interpretive boat tour that took us across the sparkling blue waters of the lake, with fascinating commentary on the surrounding geography and history. Lake Minnewanka’s sheer beauty and its historical significance made this an unmissable experience.
Banff Upper Hot Springs: A Soothing End to a Perfect Day
Our day wasn’t over yet! After the boat tour, we hopped into a taxi and headed to the Banff Upper Hot Springs, a visit we had eagerly anticipated throughout our trip. Our taxi driver, John, a dual citizen originally from Manhattan, entertained us with stories and told us that we were the second celebrities he had met that week—the first being actress Marisa Tomei.
Upon arrival at the hot springs, we planned to spend just 30 minutes but ended up relaxing in the sulfur-infused waters for nearly two hours. The outdoor thermal pool offers unparalleled views of the Banff Gondola and surrounding snow-capped mountain peaks. While the sulfur smell was noticeable (sulfur smells like rotten eggs in its purest form), the crisp mountain air and serene atmosphere made it easy to ignore. We only left because hunger got the best of us!
A Night Back at Douglas Fir Resort
We returned to the Douglas Fir Resort via Banff’s convenient public bus system, which only cost $2 per person—a highly affordable and efficient way to get around the town. For dinner, we opted for the hostel’s restaurant across the street from our resort. We were pleasantly surprised by the generous portions and the great value for money. The hostel’s bar also offered free internet access for guests, making it a popular spot for budget travelers.
Looking Ahead: Lake Louise Awaits
After a long day of exploring Banff’s natural beauty and soaking in the hot springs, we were more than ready for a good night’s sleep. Tomorrow, we’re excited to head to Lake Louise for the final leg of our journey, where we’ll spend two days in one of the most picturesque destinations in the Canadian Rockies.
Stay tuned as we continue sharing our travel experiences through the breathtaking Canadian Rockies, and don’t forget to check back for our travel tips at the end of our adventure!
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