Initially we planned to head directly east. From another vacation we already know southern Alberta and BC. But we found out, that the Calgary Stampede will be held until next weekend, so we decided on a little detour.
After more than 100 km of lonesome driving, occasionally crossing a truck, the amount of tourists at the gates of Jasper seemed unreal. As soon as an animal was spotted along the highway, cars stopped, people rushed out of cars with their cameras ready. Sadly they got really close to the animals, not even a bear could bring them to reason.
Still we were simply amazed by the landscape. The light blue rivers and lakes, the rocks and mountains… After a chat with rangers and guides we unpacked our canoe and headed out on a short trip on the Athabasca River. That part was declared as a kid-friendly beginners-whitewater.
On the river we got some water in and had to stop to pour it all out. Luckily we didn’t turn. With beating hearts we reached our final destination.
While Nick pedaled back to the van, I observed one raft after the other coming out of the river. First came rafts with 6 or 8 people on it. Then followed huge rafts with over 20 people in it and only the guide had oversized paddles to navigate. Classic tourist trap.
After a great evening with some german travellers we hit the Icefields Parkway to Banff. Despite all the people we found some pretty spots and enjoyed nature. And we laughed a lot at the rental prices of canoes, pedal boats and standup paddleboards.
Over all it was a great detour, which we can only recommend. But don’t come in peak season. It’s a bad idea.
written by Barbara