restaurants, hotels, hot springs and
wildlife, Banff has a surprise for everyone. When I stay in the park I quickly morph into
a routine of alpine adventures and then at night a town guy, treating myself to the many
adventures Banff has to offer.During most days I spend the mornings and afternoons alpine skiing at either Sunshine Village or my favorite hill in the Rockies, Lake Louise. I get up early and check the weather report , fill a couple of thermoses full of hot tea and soups and then I'm off. Its a forty minute drive from Banff townsite to Lake Louise but its well worth the hike. Sunshine village is only about ten or twelve minutes North, but unless there has been a good dump of snow , I'd rather drive the extra distance to the "Lake". Besides when youıve bought a seasons pass at one hill you find yourself skiing there almost exclusively.
If you dont like skiing try dogsledding in nearby Kaananiskis Country, the Veiws are breathteking. Or try snowshowing or snowmobiling with a tour. I like putting on my skates and going down to te Bow River to see how the ce is. If thats not happening I'll go over to the ice complex and get into a pickup game of what else but hocky!
After finishing skiing or skating, usually early in the afternoon, Iıd drive back into town and go
to the hot springs. The hot springs on Sulfur Mountain are just a short drive up the road from my cabin.
I could walk if I wanted to but coming home after hot springs in the Rocky Mountains
could leave someone a little stiff. Sulfur Mountain Hot Springs are a beautiful example
of what I call Park Architecture.
Built
out of local materials and to a grand design, its like stepping back into a bygone
era. Built of limestone and timber , the springs are actually outside in a swimming pool like
setting. No need to worry though, entry to the pool is through a walkway leading
from inside the heated locker rooms into the pool and then outside. Keeping most of your body immersed
in the hot waters is plenty to stay warm even when its snowing!. The water
temperature is mild, about 98 degrees and a little warmer in the spring time.
The hot springs is where I sooth my aching muscles from some of the best skiing
in the world and it is where I meet freinds and plan my evening. Usually I eat in at home and rent
a video but when I feel like something classy with a casual atmosphere I dine at
Earls Bistro, on Banff Avenue. I find that the management style
combined with a tradition of hiring only he best talent never lets me down.
Steaks, chicken, salmon and pasta are just
the beginning. I start off with a couple of Gibsons and maybe a seafood appetizer.
Then I like a good New York steak and a bottle of some Okanagan red wine with
the main course. The atmosphere is open and relaxed at Earls Bistro. The staff is genuinly friendly
and a visit from the manager is allways in line. A good place to met friends for a memorable evening
or just skimming the appetizers for a late lunch. Ive doon both and the staffs friendliness keeps
me coming back again and again.
Another favorite of mine is the Magpie and Stump on Bear Street. This dinner has a Western atmosphere where you can drink your beer and throw your peanut shells onto the floor. Steaks, burgers and Mexican fare are all on the menu and is served in heaping portions. Its a loud atmosphere and you can really hang it out. After dinner, and if I have energy enough for dancing , a quick walk either way and your in any of a number of places. I like going a short distance to the Rose and Crown. This duel purpose establishment doubles as a nice restaurant in the day and evening to a enjoyable dance club at night, with a live band thats not to punky. Also if Iım in the mood for some line dancing, Buffalo Bills is just across the street. There you can kick up your heals western style. This place also has live bands on the weekends and I stay as late as I can stay awake. There are a lot of places to go out in Banff.
