When the explorer David Thompson arrived in the area, he established Jasper’s first permanent habitation, a way-station for voyageurs, in 1811. Jasper National Park was formed in 1907.
The town of Jasper is located in the heart of the National Park, and at the end of the phenomenalIcefields Parkway. This community of 4,500 provides a beautiful alpine backdrop for many year-round activities, and is an excellent centre for touring. Visit the Jasper Yellowhead Museum and Archives.
In 1883, the transcontinental railway started to cut its way through the formidable Rocky Mountains. That same year, three railway workers chanced upon simmering hot springs, and a tourist destination was born. The area was protected as a park in 1885 and two years later became Canada’s first national park, Banff National Park. At 1,372 m (4,530 ft) above sea level, Banff is recognized as Canada’s Highest Town. It is home to over 6,000 people.
See the spectacular Banff Springs Hotel. Take a dip at the Upper Hot Springs.
Be sure to take in the Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies, and the Banff Park Museum.
This picturesque mountain town was established as a coal mining centre in 1883. Today there is barely a trace of the mine remaining, and Canmore, and its 10,000 residents is very much geared to the visitor. Canmore offers a variety of hotel and bed and breakfast accomodations, galleries, craft stores and restaurants, and provides an excellent home base for outdoor recreation fans. Canmore is a very short drive to the town of Banff.
