Banff and the Bow River area

Yesterday was a travel day from Jasper to Banff. The sun was actually out for awhile and it was a beautiful drive. We made a couple stops. Mistaya Canyon, a few scenic pull-offs and we checked out the Lake Louise area. The canyon reminded me of the slots canyon we explored in Utah with water rushing thru it. Clouds hung in the mountains, so we headed to Banff.
Our place is very nice and close to town. Banff is a much larger town than Jasper. Many restaurants and shops. Driving is tricky. Streets are narrow and lots of people ride bikes or skateboards. Everyone is sharing the road and the bikers/ skaters dart in and out. You really need to pay attention. Being a bigger city and closer to Calgary, food prices are lower. Visited the Banff Steer Brewing Company for dinner. Elk meatloaf and Arctic Char. Delicious!
Woke up this morning to bright blue sky and puffy white clouds. Perfect for hiking. We started on the Boe Falls trail. The falls are wide and turbulent but not very tall. The trail runs along the river. We wanted to follow the Spray River Trail, so we started along the opposite side of the river. The trail was also near a stunning golf course. We continued along and we looked ahead to see something in the river. A large bull elk with his herd were crossing the river. They were lined up across the river and stood there for awhile. I know that Marty and I were the on,y humans in the area to witness this. Slowly, the females crossed the water. The bull waited for them all to get across and then he joined them. His rack of antlers were the biggest smile I have ever seen. He stood and posed for a few pictures which I will post when home. It was a once in a lifetime sight.
We realized we were not on the correct trail when we reached the golf clubhouse. Quick snack, then returned to river crossing to get on the correct trail that would take up to the Hoodoos. This trail was much higher in elevation and provided great views of the surrounding mountains. It was a terrific day to be outside but we were getting tired. About halfway on our return, we discovered a bus stop and hopped the bus back to town. A three block walk returned us to the car. 16 miles. We were exhausted. Home for nap and then dinner. More sun tomorrow, so more exploring.















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