EXPLORING ALBERTA: A JOURNEY THROUGH JAW-DROPPING LANDSCAPES AND SERENE LAKES

There’s something exhilarating about setting off on an adventure, especially when it involves exploring the stunning natural wonders of Alberta, Canada. From breathtaking national parks to serene lakes, this province has so much to offer. My recent trip with my husband took us through an exciting itinerary, showcasing the best of Alberta’s natural beauty. Here’s how our adventure unfolded:

Day 1: Seattle to Calgary – The Journey Begins

We started our journey on a Wednesday evening, boarding the LRT at Westlake Station in Seattle around 6:35 pm, heading for SeaTac Airport. After a swift train ride, we arrived at the airport at 7:22 pm, with plenty of time before our 9:20 pm flight to Calgary. However, as travel often goes, our Alaska Airlines flight was delayed by an hour. Finally, at 10:20 pm, we were airborne, and by 12:52 am, we touched down in Calgary, ready to kick off our Alberta adventure.

Our first stop was the Comfort Inn & Suites near Calgary International Airport. The hotel offers a convenient shuttle service from the airport, available 24 hours a day. We were picked up promptly and checked in without hassle. We also scheduled a shuttle to take us to the rental car location for the next day. A smooth process that set the tone for the days ahead!

Day 2: Dinosaur Provincial Park and Waterton Lakes National Park

After a comfortable night’s rest, we picked up our rental car at 12:30 pm and set off for our first major destination: Dinosaur Provincial Park. Located about 2.5 hours from Calgary, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its otherworldly badlands and abundant dinosaur fossils. Arriving at around 4:30 pm, we spent an hour and a half exploring the park’s rugged terrain, feeling like we had stepped back into prehistoric times.

From there, we headed to Waterton Lakes National Park, a 3.5-hour drive away. The drive was long, but the scenic route kept us captivated. Word of advice: obey the speed limits! Officers frequently patrol these roads, and getting pulled over would certainly dampen the spirit of the journey. We arrived around 9:30 pm at the Super 8 by Wyndham Pincher Creek for the night. Tired but excited for what the next day would bring, we settled in for a good night’s sleep.

Waterton Lakes National Park. Credit: Marmarch

 

 

 

Day 3: Exploring Waterton Lakes and Discovering Calgary’s Charms

The next morning, we set off early to explore the stunning Waterton Lakes National Park. This park is a hidden gem, offering jaw-dropping vistas, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. We spent a few hours soaking in the natural beauty, taking countless photos, and feeling utterly at peace in this tranquil setting.

We started our journey at Maskinonge Lake, a hidden gem just outside the gates of Waterton Lakes National Park. It’s a quiet spot with stunning views of the mountains reflecting off the calm waters—an ideal place to soak in the beauty of nature. Our next adventure took us to Red Rock Canyon, a must-see with its short, easy loop trail that winds along a clear stream set against striking, bright red rock formations. The contrast of colors is absolutely wondrous!

Red Rock Canyon

From there, we visited the beautiful Cameron Falls, hoping to catch a glimpse of its rare pink waters—a phenomenon that happens only under certain conditions. It’s a unique experience that makes you appreciate the surprises nature has to offer. Our last stop for the day was the historic site of the First Oil Well in Western Canada, drilled in 1902. It’s a quick stop for those interested in history, but if that’s not your cup of tea, you can easily move on to your next adventure.

By mid-afternoon, it was time to make the long drive back towards Calgary, with a stop in Canmore. The drive took us through the heart of Alberta’s picturesque landscapes. Upon reaching Calgary, we took a quick tour of the city’s highlights—Scotsman’s Hill, the iconic Peace Bridge, and the whimsical Wonderland Sculpture. Each spot offered a unique perspective on Calgary’s vibrant culture and scenic skyline.

By 6 pm, we continued our drive to Canmore, a charming town that served as our base for the next two nights. Canmore, quieter and more budget-friendly than Banff, proved to be a fantastic choice. We enjoyed a relaxed dinner, explored the quaint streets, and marveled at the mountain views surrounding us.

Day 4: A Day of Lakes and Canyons

Saturday morning was filled with anticipation as we set off from Canmore Inn & Suites towards Johnston Canyon and Peyto Lake. The 2.5-hour drive led us through winding roads and mesmerizing mountain views. At Johnston Canyon, we decided to hike both the Lower and Upper Falls—each rewarding us with stunning cascades and cool misty air.

Next up was Peyto Lake, famous for its strikingly blue, wolf-head-shaped waters. With only a short walk from the parking lot to the viewpoint, it’s a must-see even for those short on time. Though we wished we could explore Yoho National Park, time was running short, and we had an appointment to catch a shuttle to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Be sure to visit Bow Lake on your way to Banff. Its breathtakingly clear waters, surrounded by towering mountains, are a sight you won’t want to miss.

Peyto Lake. Credit: Marmarch

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

At 4 pm, we hopped on the Park and Ride Shuttle to these two iconic lakes as the road to both lakes is closed to personal vehicles year-round. Lake Louise’s turquoise waters and Moraine Lake’s deep blue hues left us speechless. Hike up the Rockpiles trail to witness the stunning turquoise waters of Moraine Lake, and take a stroll along the lake’s shores to capture its incredible reflections. I highly recommend booking the shuttle tickets in advance and aiming for an earlier time, as parking spots can be scarce, and the shuttles operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The experience was truly magical, with both lakes living up to every bit of their fame.

After a full day of adventures, we wrapped up our evening in downtown Banff before driving to Canmore—we didn’t want to miss out on the city’s lively atmosphere!

Breathtaking Moraine Lake. Credit: Marmarch

 

 

 

 

Day 5: Farewell, Alberta

Sunday morning, it was time to bid farewell to Alberta. After a relaxing breakfast, we left Canmore at 10:30 am for the 1.5-hour drive back to Calgary. We returned our rental car at Avis and made our way to the Aspire Lounge at the airport—one last treat, thanks to our online travel agent rewards loyalty program.

Our flight back to Seattle was delayed again, this time by WestJet. A bit of a pattern on this trip, but it gave us more time to relax and reflect on the incredible experiences of the past few days. A quick tip: make sure to clarify the check-in line at Calgary Airport since there is no separate sign for domestic and international flights.

A Few Regrets and Final Thoughts

One regret was missing out on Jasper National Park and the Icefields Parkway due to a fire that closed off access during our visit. But that’s just another reason to return to Alberta and explore more of its natural beauty!

Overall, our trip was filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, serene moments, and memorable adventures. Alberta is a place where nature’s splendor meets warm, welcoming communities. Furthermore, you can easily spot wildlife such as mountain goats, deer, squirrels or even bears! If you’re dreaming of a getaway that will leave you in awe, add Alberta to your travel list—it truly is a destination that nourishes the soul.