Rockies Road-Trip: Part 1
Banff
With Banff National Park on many of our bucket lists, this historic park can become daunting with all it has to offer. From us at Yoho & Co. to you, this is how we would spend the perfect day in Banff. With a little bit of everything, we’re sure to make your trip unforgettable.
Where to eat:
Una Pizza + Wine | 202 Caribou Street
This fun little pizzeria is a hidden gem in Banff. Just like their artsy decor, the food is never boring. Fun drinks, great appetizers, and delicious mains. P.S. Their broccoli starter is a favourite go-to for the team at Yoho & Co.
Vermilion Lakes & Mount Rundle
Where to shop:
Mount Rundle
Cool as a Moose | 115 Banff Ave.
Filled with colourful goodies and loads of great gear for kids, Cool As A Moose is a playful stop on Banff Ave. in a cheery and festive atmosphere. Find select Yoho & Co. pennants unique to Banff here.
Big Bear Trading | 209 Banff Ave.
With a huge selection of Yoho & Co. Adventure Patches and pennants, Big Bear Banff is the brand-new sophisticated sister store to Cool as a Moose. Find drool-worthy artisanal goodies while enjoying their modern mountain cabin vibes.
Where Hike:
Looking at Mount Rundle from Tunnel Mountain
Tunnel Mountain - AKA ‘Sleeping Buffalo’ | Starts at Tunnel Mountain Drive.
In two hours, you can be up and down Tunnel Mountain. This family-friendly trail gives you 360-degree-views of Banff and the valley from the top. The terrain is not steep because of its gradual climb. This trail is a local’s ‘evening walk’ fav due to it's wide and clear to follow path.
At the top of the trail holds many different places to sit and rest — including a rock chair built for Queen Elizabeth II! Bring a snack and be sure to charge your phone — these views will have you in awe of our beautiful sister town.
Canmore
Yoho & Co.’s hometown, Canmore, is the gateway to Banff National Park. Once part of the park, it’s now a fav stop for picturesque shots in front of legendary massif, Three Sisters. Hike, indulge and treat yourself in Canmore.
Canmore’s iconic triptych: The Three Sisters
Hayes and Lovebug — Famous ‘guard dogs’ at Alberta’s Own
Where to shop:
Alberta’s Own
This unique Main Street shop is home to almost 150 Albertan markers including made in Canmore, Yoho & Co. Learn the creative stories behind each of the unique pieces on their artisanal shelves or take a photo in front of their mini art murals.
P.S. if you’re lucky, you may even see the two adorable “guard dogs”, Hayes and Lovebug.
Hidden Canmore:
Grassi Lakes Trail
Tranquil teal lakes, sweeping valley views, a roaring waterfall and trails littered with wildflowers, are just a few of the natural wonders that make this trail a local fav. Due to its immense popularity, go earlier or later in the day to avoid the crowds.
Note: Undergoing upgrades this summer, look for this trailhead to reopen later this year. Check with the local Visitor Centre for re-opening date and observe all trail closures noted.
Grassi Lakes Trail
Fun Treat:
Sweet Revenge | 626 8 St Unit 4 (Main Street)
From their rose-gold decorated icy treats to hand-made vanilla bean torched marshmallows, this sweet stop is an indulgent and playful place to cool off on a sunny Canmore day.
Kananaskis
Kananaskis Country Picnics — Where the scenery is delicious, too!
Alberta’s favourite back-country is filled with teal-coloured lakes, sweeping mountain views and hidden gems. Take a day and explore our beloved K-Country.
Picnic K-Country:
As you drive along Kananaskis Trail, you’ll notice there are many scenic stops along the way. K-Country is filled with secret little ponds, lakes, and hidden scenic views — just a short detour off the beaten track. Pack a picnic, explore the different options, and begin your adventure.
Where to stay:
Sundance Lodges
Only a 30-minute drive outside of Canmore, Sundance Lodges are a peaceful lodging experience in Alberta’s ‘back-country’. If the thought of sleeping outdoors is a little bit intimidating, each teepee and trapper tent include a heater and bed(s). Find Yoho & Co. and other treats in their adorable Camp Store — including our Kananaskis Adventure Patch.
There’s no place better to relax, start a campfire, and enjoy the night sky.
Views:
Spray Lake Road
While the Trans-Canada highway #1 is an easy route to Canmore, if you’ve got the time, Spray Lakes Roads serves up views the whole time. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, grizzlies, black bear, and big horn sheep. Just remember, bear spray is not a tourist trap, bring it on any trail you choose to explore. This is a mostly gravel road adventure, so take your time and be prepared for little to no cell service, gas or other amenities.
Sundance Lodges’ Trapper’s Tent