Banff- the oldest National Park of Canada has always created curiosity among the visitors, largely due to its extensive and interesting history. Stretched in an area of 2,564 square meters, Banff boasts serene beauty. From the majestic snow-clad mountains to sparkling alpine lakes, visitors experience enough breathtaking moments in Banff National Park.
📸Ryan.purdy
Banff National Park is West of Calgary in the Canadian province of Alberta and is visited by thousands of people around the year. With some best views of the Rockies and waterfalls to behold and multiple adventurous activities, it makes one fine destination to make the most out of the holidays.
Banff National Park History
Banff was established in 1880, keeping tourism in mind, unlike other mountain towns that began mining settlements. In 1870, the ambitious Canadian Pacific Railway construction started where three workers- Thomas McCardell, William McCardell, and Frank McCabe hit upon a series of natural hot springs. Today, they are popular as Sulphur Mountains.
Lakes And Rivers
The presence of glaciers and icefields also led into the existence of stunning turquoise lakes within the Banff National Park and surrounding areas. Glacial water, and run-off from the ice flows, feeds into a number of lakes resulting in a stunning blue-green colouration. Lake Minnewaska is located just five kilometers outside the town of Banff. This glacial lake is one of the most visited within the park, and measures 21 kilometers or 13 miles in length, and 142 metres or 466 feet in depth.
Lake Louise is another of the stunning glacial lakes. This green-tinged clear lake is nestled against Mount Victoria for a view that is truly impressive. Water from the Victoria glacier gives the lake its emerald hue, which is so popular for tourists. The lake is positioned at an altitude of 5,249 feet and covers an area of some 222 acres. Other lakes in the park include Peyto lake, Moraine Lake and Vermillion Lakes. Many of these lakes are fed by glacial runoff, or glacier streams, as well as the largest river that runs through Banff National Park, the Bow River.
