 The view from Standish Photo courtesy of Sunshine Meadows |
BANFF, AB – Lonely Planet has ranked the Sunshine Meadows hike in Banff National Park the #1 day hike in Canada in its newly released travel guide Discover Canada.
With Sunshine Meadows situated only an hour and a half from the heart of Calgary and 10 minutes from Banff town site, it’s an incredibly accessible day hike.
From the Bourgeau base, $26 gets you a round trip bus ticket to Sunshine Village Ski & Snowboard Resort where the hike begins. Whether you choose a guided day hike or venture out on your own, the trails cater to all ages and everyone will reap the incredible rewards.
At 2220 metres (7,300 feet), Sunshine Meadows straddles the Continental Divide and the boundary between Alberta and British Columbia. Regular visitors to the mountain are often overwhelmed by the transformation from powder-covered ski runs to a lush, blooming valley.
Hikers can enjoy their lunch next to the deep-blue Rock Isle Lake which is flanked by some of the highest peaks in the Rockies. Hillsides covered in eye-popping wildflowers and unique lichens are home to a wide variety of wildlife. Visitors can catch a glimpse of everything from big horn sheep, to mountain goats, to a wide array of birds and of course, from a safe distance, perhaps even an awe-inspiring grizzly bear. As summer progresses to autumn, the trees change from vibrant yellow to deep red, offering another natural wonder. All in all, you can find of some of the country’s most stunning natural environment during your hike.
So, grab your Lonely Planet guide, come get some nature therapy and rest assured – you’re on your way to #1! If you’re interested in learning more about Sunshine Meadows hiking trails, post a question on the Sunshine Village Facebook page.
 Rock Isle Lake is flanked by some of the highest peaks in the Rockies. Photo courtesy of Sunshine Meadows |
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