The jagged peaks of the Canadian Rockies in the Banff-Lake Louise area beckon travelers from across the globe to the twin towns in southern Alberta.
“There is so much to offer here for students, from history to wildlife and from nature to geology,” says Ryan Elliott of Banff and Lake Louise Tourism. “Two of my favorite options for school groups are Cave and Basin National Historical Site and the Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola.”
One of Destination Canada’s Signature Experiences, Cave and Basin is home to a set of thermal springs around which the country’s first national park, Banff National Park, was established. During a visit to the site, which reopened in 2013 following an extensive renovation, students can experience nature, culture and history. They can see the bubbling mineral waters of this accessible underground cave and take part in guided tours or nature walks.
The Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola transports visitors high up into the majestic mountains, where they can check out expansive views of the area’s flora and fauna.
“This experience offers a unique opportunity to ascend to one of the greatest Rocky Mountain viewpoints and, along the way, passengers may spot a wild grizzly bear from above,” says Elliott. “Students will enjoy a relaxing 14-minute ride, with the choice of a four-passenger open chair or a fully enclosed gondola, that takes them to an elevation of 2,088 meters (6,850 feet).”
For more information, reach out to Ryan Elliott of Banff and Lake Louise Tourism or go to banfflakelouise.com.
Top Educational Attractions
The Banff Centre for Arts and Creativity
Whyte Museum
The Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum
Top Recreational Attractions
The Banff Gondola
Mt. Norquay’s Via Ferrata experience
Top Local Festivals
Snowday’s Festival (Jan 15–26, 2020)
Top photo: Cave and Basin National Historic Site
Photo by Paul Ziska
