AN independent SUPPLEMENT from mediaplanet TO THE NATIONAL POST Summer in the Rockies Northern Climb, swim, bike and Why this unique region will relax in the mountains keep you coming back March 2013 exploring alberta 3 FACTS

You didn’t know about Alberta

Experience the New Alberta photo: bonterra productions productions bonterra photo: Former Mantracker Terry Grant gives his unique insight as to why he calls Alberta home. 2 · MARCH 2013 AN independent SUPPLEMENT by mediaplanet TO THE NATIONAL POST challEnges

We recommend Answer the call of the north Taking the road less traveled

Page 5

“The call of the moun- tains is beckoning you personally to come and discover its culture, historic lodges and supernatural beauty.”

Dave Moberg p. 6 1. Local legend & hotel historian shares his secrets of the Rockies Erica Durance p. 7 2. Hollywood actress and Alberta girl Erica Durance shares her stories of growing up in this region

On Haddo Peak with Mt. Temple in the background. Photo: Yamnuska With rolling plains, rugged mountains, turquoise lakes, and burgeoning cities with endless events; Alberta is the place to be this summer.

Lying on top of the world

ou can visit the top — only the buzzing bees, the darting soothing silence. And yes, you can EXPLORIng ALBERTA of the world with- dragonflies and the warming rays of even find our real residents – elk, deer, first edition, march 2013 out ever setting foot the mid-afternoon sun. As near as I moose, bear, mountain goat, Rocky on Mount Everest. can tell, I’ve just walked into Heaven Mountain Bighorn sheep, lynx, wolf, Responsible for this issue: Business Developer: Emily O’Donnell In fact, you can get on Earth. My breath settles. My stride eagles, osprey, trout and on and on. [email protected] there just by lying slows. I turn off the trail beside a small Many are easy to find and some even Lead Designer: Alana Giordano [email protected] down. brook and head upstream a short dis- easy to photograph from a safe dis- Designer: Anna Staffansson It’s springtime in the glorious Can- tance. There, I make a slow turn, peel tance, with reverence and respect. Contributors: Alberta Culture, Y Alan Hobson, Max Jones, Ted Kritsonis, adian Rocky Mountains near Can- off my pack and after surveying the I’ve hiked, biked, skied, climbed, Heather Ritchie, Minister Dr. Richard Starke more, Alberta, just a 75-minute drive stunning scene around me, quietly lie swum, kayaked, canoed, hang glided, Cover Photo Credit [Top]: Travel Alberta west of . I head out for a hike. down in the flowers. Oh the flowers scuba dived, backpacked, lived and All images are from Alan Hobson Photo Credit: After scrambling up one ridge, over a — the glorious, sweet-scented blos- 2-Time Cancer Survivor & Bestselling Author, Mt. breathed in the power and presence iStock.com unless otherwise accredited. Everest Climber & Summiteer, Climb Back Inc. small pass and to the top of Mt. Allen soms — all the colours, all the shapes of this place for over 25 years. It is Production Manager: Maggie Ritchie (site of alpine skiing at the 1988 Olym- of mystery and magic, amid the peace BIO more than my home. It is my church, [email protected] Managing Director: Jon Kent pic Winter Games) I find myself des- of paradise. There, I spend 30 of the my sanctuary, my solitude. It is my [email protected] cending what is surely one of the most most memorable minutes of my life Alan Hobson place in the universe – and I can Is the bestselling author of six Distributed within: breathtakingly beautiful mountain staring up at the clouds. They drift assure you, most nights you can see National Post, MARCH 2013 lines in – Centennial Ridge. gently across my vision as I slowly books, including Climb Back from it clearly from here. This section was created by Mediaplanet Cancer. and did not involve the National Post ­or its At my feet is laid out an undulating slip off to sleep… Alberta has to be seen to be A two-time cancer survivor, fol- Editorial Departments. carpet of thick forests, glistening believed. Even then, you won’t lowing his treatment for leukemia, Welcome to Alberta creeks and sweeping meadows. My he moved from Calgary to Canmore believe it. I still don’t. Every day I gaze takes me on a breathtaking Welcome to one of the most mag- and has never looked back. wake up and say, “This place is awe- 360-degree tour of soaring mountain nificent and magnetically alluring A former winner of the William inspiring.” Get out here so you can ramparts, including the towering places on the planet. You can find it Randolph Hearst Award for Excel- get out there. You – and your life – will FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK AND face of 10,200-foot (3,110-metre) Mt. all here – dramatic mountain vistas, lence in News Writing, he is also the never be the same. TWITTER! 10th Canadian to have climbed Mt. www.facebook.com/MediaplanetCA Lougheed. After hours of awe, when I sprawling glaciers, turquoise-col- www.twitter.com/MediaplanetCA leave the ridge I find myself in an alp- oured lakes, wild rivers, crystal clear Everest and is widely considered to ine amphitheatre the size of a sports streams, sweeping prairie, dinosaur be one of the best adventure speak- ers in the world. Mediaplanet’s business is to create new cus- stadium lined with thousands of bones, rolling foothills, untouched Alan Hobson tomers for our advertisers by providing read- mountain flowers. No one is around wilderness, whipping winds and [email protected] ers with high quality editorial content that motivates them to act. Camp this summer! Heart of culture Alberta is fortunate to jewels are spread throughout the happened to be the foremost Icelandic quirky, brilliant, death defying, quite have the world coming our province. poet of the 20th century. There are possibly crazy ­— are considered vis- way these days. Economic In fact, there is seemingly no end tangible echoes of missionaries and iting dignitaries, and everyone is an opportunities attract new to festivals of all sorts in Alberta. The fur traders and Ukrainian pioneers aficionado of the drama. Theatrical people with new cultures themes are impossibly diverse: Sand that seem to have travelled straight and street performance festivals pro- and traditions and a thirst Sculptures, Dragon Boats, Shake- through time. There’s Canada’s dead- liferate across Alberta, and the Fringe for a good quality of life. The speare, Bluegrass, Caribbean, African, liest rock slide. There’s Albertosaurus, has imitators across the continent. cultural payoff —­­­ in diversity Latin, Food and Wine, Corn, Film, a smaller, sportier cousin of Tyranno- There’s plenty of innovative, year- and enthusiasm — is huge. World Media – you name it. saurus Rex. That’s a start, anyway. round live theatre, symphony, choral music, opera, touring productions, One indication is the summer’s round History and culture A place of the arts and popular concerts. Film makers, of music festivals. There’s an extra- Another kind of diversity is on display The arts have their place in Alberta, authors, digital media artists. And of Camping is available throughout ordinary selection of all types to enjoy. at our historic sites, museums and throughout the province and every course, the restaurant scene introdu- the province in private camp- Renowned folk festivals in Calgary, interpretive centres. A selective tour day of the week. From the stunning ces something new and exotic virtu- grounds and resorts, national parks and provincial parks. Res- Edmonton, Canmore, and others, of them gives a sense of the exciting new Art Gallery of Alberta and The ally every week. ervations can be made at private Country at the Big Valley Jamboree combination of history, people, and Works festival in Edmonton, to the It’s all part of the bonus of having campgrounds and at certain parks. in Camrose – the continent’s largest; landscapes that have made Alberta Alberta College of Art and Design in the world at your door. Feel free to join For more information and reserva- Reggae in Calgary, Jazz in Edmonton what it is today. There’s a World Herit- Calgary, to impressive arts facilities the world in Alberta, for a visit, or to tion options, check out the Alberta and Medicine Hat… the list goes on. age Site where aboriginal hunters in Grande Prairie, Lethbridge, Medi- stay. Campground Guide, call Travel Artists you’ll hear range from thrill- perfected the greatest food gathering cine Hat and more, to the rightly Alberta at 1-800-ALBERTA (252- ing new discoveries to homecoming machine to that point in history, thou- famous Banff Centre. Performance 3782), or stop in at a visitor infor- local heroes who’ve taken the world sands of years before the pyramids art is king during the Fringe Theatre mation centre. Alberta Culture by storm, to international legends broke ground. There’s the residence Festivals in Edmonton and Calgary. [email protected] who’ve heard the Alberta buzz. The of an Alberta homesteader who also It’s a time when theatrical folk – [email protected] AN independent SUPPLEMENT by mediaplanet TO THE NATIONAL POST AN independent SUPPLEMENT by mediaplanet TO THE NATIONAL POST MARCH 2013 · 3 challEnges INSPIRATION Tip 1

Alberta has more sunshine annually than any Tourism Regions other province or territory in Canada at 312 days

Northern Alberta

Picture a vast land of boreal traders. Check out the boom- forests, sweeping grasslands, town of Fort McMurray, where Photo: Travel Alberta/Sabrina HIll and endless lakes and rivers. A four mighty rivers converge. place where the northern lights Explore the ancient bonebeds blaze across the night sky and and nearby provincial parks you can explore the back- of Grande Prairie. country for days and not see With extra long summer another person. Are you brave days, is the enough to discover the un- place for nonstop fun in the tamed land of the north? If so, sun! Hike, bike or ride thou- you’re in for a true Alberta ad- sands of kilometers (miles) venture you’ll never forget. of trails. Golf until midnight Get to know the faces and or catch the action of a local places of the north. Discov- rodeo. Water is everywhere er Aboriginal culture and his- so get in it and swim, fish and tory, then and now. Trace paddle. Hop a float plane to a the steps of the early fur remote fishing lodge.

Canadian Rockies

You know the feeling of being a UNESCO World Heritage somewhere and wishing you Site. An eye-popping 90 minute Photo: Travel Alberta/ Sean Thonson could stay forever? There drive west of Calgary and four are a few places like that in hours west of Edmonton, the world, and the Canadian the Canadian Rockies are Rockies is one of them. packed with year round out- You’ve seen the pictures - door adventures. Hike or dazzling peaks, lush mountain horseback thousands of kilo- meadows, emerald lakes, virgin meters of trails through mind- forest, towering waterfalls and blowing alpine panoramas. wildlife galore. Everywhere you Paddle, raft, fish, climb point your camera is alpine eye and golf all summer long. When candy. the snow falls, get in on the ac- Stretching from the Contin- tion of skiing, boarding, dog ental Divide on Alberta’s south- sledding, snowshoeing and ice western border north into Brit- climbing. Go wildlife watching ish Columbia, the Canadian or slip into outdoor natural hot Rockies are a network of prov- springs year round. Feel the incial and national parks that Rocky Mountain high long after have collectively been declared the snow melts off your boots.

central Alberta

Be a part of the lively western land stretching east to Lloyd- heritage and pioneering spirit minster at the Saskatchewan Photo: Travel Alberta/George Simhoni of central Alberta. Get ready to border. The land is sprinkled party in Edmonton, Alberta’s with lakes and ponds left by re- capital city and the festival treating glaciers. The winding capital of Canada. Red Deer, plays a leading the hub of central Alberta, has role in the region’s agricultural its festivals too. Join in the bounty, not to mention the best celebrations of local history, place in the province for inner the Wild West and a famous tubing on a lazy afternoon. country music jamboree. Long summer days are filled Alberta’s heartland is a myr- with hiking, biking, riding, fish- iad of landscapes, from the ing, boating and beaches. Get foothills of the Rockies in the out on the prairie and into 360 west to an endless expanse of degree views of plains and golden plains and aspen park- big sky.

Canadian Badlands

Driving across endless gold- this land somehow keeps you Dinosaur Provincial Park en prairies, the fertile land looking over your shoulder. Photo: Travel Alberta/George Simhoni suddenly drops away into a The badlands cut a swath strange and stark moonscape through southeastern Al- of weird striped hills and berta. The region has been a otherworldly rock formations. fossil hotbed since the 19th The badlands. Even the name century and shows no sign is mysterious and maybe of running out of old bones. that’s why you’re compelled Some of the most important to explore. Knowing the very dinosaur discoveries in the ground you walk on is rife world were unearthed right with the ancient bones of the here. dinosaurs who once ruled

SOUTHERN Alberta Imagine a journey through Trail through cattle country. For Red Deer River rolling ranchlands, mountain an urban fix, experience the ex- Photo: Travel Alberta/Jason Stang peaks, eerie badlands and dusty citement of Calgary, self-pro- Wild West towns. Sound like claimed ‘heart of the new west.’ something you’d see in a movie? Explore the coulees and kilns It may very well be – the authen- of Medicine Hat and the shady tic vistas of Southern Alberta are past and funky arts scene of favorite locations for Hollywood Lethbridge. films. Hit the road for Reel Ad- In the summer, stay on a guest ventures through the scenes of ranch and herd real cattle with Brokeback Mountain, Inception, real cowboys. Go whitewater X-Men 2, Legends of the Fall and rafting, bike through the prairie, Unforgiven, to name just a few. or escape to the cool mountains. If real cowboys are more Hike, paddle or ride just about your thing, drive the Cowboy anywhere.

SOURCE: TRAVEL alberta 4 · MARCH 2013 AN independent SUPPLEMENT by mediaplanet TO THE NATIONAL POST

inspiration Tip 2

Alberta is one of the fastest growing provinces in Canada with a population of more than 3.5 million

TERRY GRANT IN ACTION riding through vast plains, rolling hills and the rugged forests. Photo: bonterra productions Question: You’ve been all over the country filming the show, “Mantracker.” Have you never wanted to move? Answer: Alberta is always going to be home for me. A cowboy’s dream erry Grant is driving Alberta, to the Cochrane Ranch that He had to learn fast what the dif- Mantracker, the Outdoor Life Network Not your average cowboy down the highway started ranching in that region, ference was between a black bear and show that put his tracking skills front The image of the tobacco-spitting in Southern Alberta there’s history all a grizzly and center. It took him all over the cowboy couldn’t be further from the on his way home to over the province.” bear track, country, from the Rockies in British inquisitive and renaissance man that High River. The typ- Terry moved to how far Columbia to the “Rock” of Newfound- is Terry Grant. “I wrote a book last year ical image of a cow- Alberta in 1976, and away they land “We’d get to the location 2 or 3 about tracking, now I’m leading tours boy doesn’t involve quickly became were and weeks before we’d start shooting, and to teach people about tracking, and muchT highway commuting, but then part of that history. which way I’d just go out and look around, sur- then in the off months of December Terry isn’t your typical cowboy. After they were vey the environment.” It takes a keen and January I do home renovations,” growing up in Southern Ontario and A True Albertan Every footprint tells going. “It’s eye to spot the intricacies in a foot- he says, sounding like the self-start- getting his first taste of the wilder- Terry got his start a story, and it’s my a tough life- print, but thanks to his time spent on ing ranch-hand of 30 years ago. “We ness on his uncle’s ranch, Terry fell in Alberta work- style, but it’s Alberta’s ranches, he was more than can sleep when we’re dead,” he offers in love with the cowboy lifestyle and ing on the ranches, job to figure out marvelous. up to the task. “Every footprint tells a as the reasoning behind his busy moved to the best place in Canada to most notably the what that story is. You have story, and it’s my job to figure out what schedule. find more of it: Alberta. “The proxim- Bar-U and the OH. to be a self- that story is.” On his tours he’ll show the tourists ity to the mountains, the people, the The Bar-U, one of the starter and After all the travel with the show, all kinds of useful tracking tips, not cowboy way of life. I just love it here.” “Big 4” ranches, is now a National His- your own boss.” Terry is both of those though, Terry’s always happy to come the least of which is how you can tell He has learned to love the history toric Site, and also where Terry learned things, and the training he received back to Southern Alberta, “it will if a footprint is from someone walking of the province, as well, despite his to harness his tracking skills. “The during his ranching days translated always be home for me.” He has his backwards. After speaking with Terry, early relationship with the subject. “I tracking started with cowboy-ing,” he to success in a wildly different arena: horse, Nickel, the mountains, and a though, it’s clear he doesn’t leave too hated history in school,” he admits, reminisces, “You would ride up into the Television. province so big and full of history that many of those. “but there’s so much history all over mountains with your head of cattle and he’ll never get tired of learning more Alberta, and it’s all so interesting. you’d have to focus on the ground, look- Mantracker about it. Max Jones From the Indian Trails in Northern ing for bear tracks.” He spent 5 years of his life as the star of [email protected]

Camrose …Sharing Our Secret!

Camrose has a population of over 17,000 and is best known for its friendliness, beauty, and sense of community. Our municipal golf course is one of the most beautiful 18 hole courses in central Alberta with three holes backing onto picturesque Mirror Lake. Camrose is home to Big Valley Jamboree – the largest outdoor 4-day country music festival in North America.

www.tourismcamrose.com AN independent SUPPLEMENT by mediaplanet TO THE NATIONAL POST AN independent SUPPLEMENT by mediaplanet TO THE NATIONAL POST MARCH 2013 · 5 news

EVENTS to check out Answer the call this season! Grande Prairie Check out the Stompede this of the north summer Take the road less travelled…

Lac La Biche Lakeland Country Fair July 19 – 21, 2013 The events will start at 1pm. The annual Fair offers 1 something for everyone: 1. Market, Bench Show, Rodeo, Horse Photo: RICK KOKOTOVICH 2. Dunvegan, Northern Alberta show, BBQ, and more! Photo: jason stang 3. Jones Lake, Lake Isle Photo: George Simhoni/ Travel Alberta 1 Beaverlodge Pioneer Days 2 3 July 20 – 21, 2013 Two fun filled days starting both with a pancake break- 2 fast then moving on to the craft show & sale, heritage displays auto Show & Shine, BBQ lunches, music and the parades of vintage steamers, tractors, & autos. See how grain was threshed before com- bines & watch the sawmill produce lumber for further building restora- tion. Stay on Saturday to watch the Stock Dog Trials & attend the open air church service on Sunday. Alberta Beach Polynesian Days August 2 - 5, 2013 Come out and participate in the customary Poly Days 3 events like the Parade, Scavenger Hunt, Ball Tournament, Tug-O-War, Sidewalk Chalk Draw- ing, Outdoor Family Movie Night, n Alberta’s north, long summer Dip your paddle Sand Castle Sculpting, and Kid’s days mean even more time to “The region is The Athabasca Region offers scenic Races just to name a few. So grab spend with your friends and family culturally diverse, views of rolling hills and the winding your sunscreen and grass skirt and — making memories that will last . West of the town of meet us down at the heart of our a lifetime. The region is culturally beautiful and Athabasca, explore Cross Lake Prov- community for a fun-filled family diverse, beautiful, and waiting to waiting to be incial Park’s quiet bays and shallows weekend. be explored. As Alberta’s Minister of explored.” in your canoe and you might be lucky ITourism, Parks and Recreation, I invite enough to see a nesting bald eagle or Grande Prairie you to explore the north and start osprey. Stompede building some summer memories at Dr. Richard Starke May 29 – June 2, 2013 our provincial parks. Minister of Tourism, Parks & Recreation. Backcountry adventure Grande Prairie Stompede is The Wood Buffalo Region is home to going to be “Bigger than the Beaches and birds exploring the Grande Prairie Region. A home to over 150 bird species – 15 spe- the fastest growing municipalities in 4 Beatles.” With 2 nights of Set in dense boreal forest, Lesser Slave new discovery of dinosaur bones near cies of wood warblers alone! Enjoy boat- Alberta. The Richardson backcountry boot stomping fun, our entertain- Lake Provincial Park offers a spectacu- Wembley will spark your imagination ing activities with your family on this offers amazing experiences with ment this year is bound to get you in lar beach on Alberta’s largest lake. Enjoy regardless of age. The amazing lake. pristine sport-fishing, trails, and two the Stompede spirit. Canadian Rec- hiking, camping, fishing, sailing, kay- Dinosaur Initiative offers guided fos- wildland parks – Richardson River ord Artist, Aaron Pritchett will aking, and bird watching. Over 260 bird sil hunts through the world’s largest Gold rush and Maybelle River, featuring the headline Friday night, followed by species have been spotted at the nearby pachyrhinosaurus bone bed. The Peace Region offers a summer Athabasca Sand Dunes. International Country Superstar A cowboy’s dream Boreal Centre for Bird Conservation. packed with outdoor concerts and With a park located within an hour Joe Diffie on Saturday. C’est fantastique! festivals. Experience the rich culture of every Alberta community, you’ll Fossil hunting The Region boasts inter- built from the history of fur traders, set- find the perfect place for your next Saskatoon Island Provincial Park, a nationally recognized wetlands and tlers and the Klondike gold rush. Take a vacation. designated federal migratory bird is home to Falher, one of only three break at Queen Elizabeth Provincial TRAVEL ALBertA sanctuary and home to the magnifi- bilingual communities in Alberta. Park. DR. Richard Starke [email protected] cent trumpeter swan, is a great base for Provincial Park is [email protected] 6 · MARCH 2013 AN independent SUPPLEMENT by mediaplanet TO THE NATIONAL POST

insight Tip 3

Local legend & hotel The province of Alberta was named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, the fourth daughter historian shares his of Queen Victoria secrets of the Rockies

A DISTINGUISHED VIEW Enjoy a hike at in Banff National Park. Photo: Banff Tourism

■ Question: You seem to be There are 69 species of mam- water’s edge below. Talk about one of an expert on the Rockies and “Whether you are a mals that call the Canadian Rockies Banff’s perfect moments! on Banff in particular. Can you nature lover, sports home. Unlike the Colorado Rockies give us a brief history of the which are higher in elevation and ■ Q: What would you suggest region? enthusiast, camper, older in age, the Canadian Rockies for future Albertan travellers Answer: The Canadian Rockies are much younger and more rug- to experience in the summer? has experienced many transforma- international traveller ged thanks to glaciations. They are A: In 1929, the very young Winston tions such as being a sea bed covered or an Albertan, the also home to the iconic dazzling, Churchill decided to extend his stay by water over a mile deep, roamed turquoise hue mountain lakes such from one day to two days at the by dinosaurs and covered by gla- Canadian Rockies Peyto, Bow and the stunning Lake Banff Springs Hotel. What did he ciers. These finally retreated from has so much to offer Louise. do on his second day? He didn’t golf the valley bottoms approximately Always remember, that when but smoked his cigar, hiked and 12,000 years ago. In fact, the top of and experience.” you stray away a hundred metres painted a beautiful small painting Mount Rundle (2948 metres in ele- or more from any human-made of the Valley which is Dave Moberg vation) that overlooks the postcard Hotel Historian & Guest Relations Manager development in the National Park, still displayed today in his official town of Banff and the Castle was it’s you and Mother Nature. studio at Chartwell Place in Kent, at the bottom of an ancient sea some Park in the world, now known as England. Whether you are a nature 330 million years ago (according to Banff National Park. Shortly there- ■ Q: What are some of the most ■ Q: What is your favorite lover, sports enthusiast, camper, geologists). after, the CPR’s American—born interesting facts about the memory/story of living in international traveller or an Alber- ou might think of In the fall of 1883, the accidental General Manager William Van Rockies?” Banff? tan, Banff National Park has so the Rockies as a discovery of the hot springs on Sul- Horne was lowered down that A: The Canadian Rockies are home A: One of my special memories much to offer and experience. Yes, dreamy place to be in phur Mountain by three Canadian same hot springs cave and came to five of Canada’s National Parks: of living in Banff, is while wait- the call of the mountains is beck- the winter, but have Pacific Railway (CPR) workers led to up with the philosophy, “since we Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho and ing to hit my golf drive from the oning you personally to come and you considered how the creation of a Hot Springs Reserve can’t export the scenery, we will Waterton. There are also three major legendary signature hole called the discover its culture, historic lodges much fun it could be in 1885. Eventually, 10 square miles have to import the tourists!” Thus Hot Springs: Sulphur Mountain in Devil’s Cauldron at the Fairmont and supernatural beauty. to go in the summer or 26 square kilometres were set began railway tourism in Canada Banff, Miette Hot Springs in Jasper Banff Springs Stanley Thompson months?Y Whether it’s to explore the aside by the Government of Can- and the beautiful rocky mountain and Radium Hot Springs in British golf course, I accidentally noticed Heather Ritchielandscape or relax in front of a great ada that became the third National town of Banff. Columbia. an elk cow giving birth adjacent to [email protected], those who live in the Rockies say the area has something for everyone. Tourism in the region is noth- ing new, and residents believe that the scenery is a key reason why. The mountains overlook a large low-ele- vation area where glaciated peaks and endless forests dominate the land- scape. Turqoise-coloured lakes with flowery meadows are an impressive foreground to the rugged mountains serving as a backdrop. The area has long been a destina- tion for avid skiers, snowboarders and hikers, though activities like, rowing, kayaking and whitewater rafting have been just as prominent in the summer months, says Kevin Stanton, General Manager at Brewster Adventures in Lake Louise. Having been in the area since 1972, he knows the terrain well, and suggests visitors actively enjoy what it has to offer. “Get on a horse or put a pair of hik- Glenbow Museum na-4465-10 CPR Archives ns19709

Timeless Luxury. Timely Celebration.

125th Castle Celebration Package

resort credit of Celebrate 125 years of legendary hospitality at The Fairmont Banff Springs, Canada’s Castle in the Rockies. In honour of this significant birthday, we have created a special offer available for our entire anniversary year. Spend two nights in luxurious comfort and enjoy a daily resort credit of $125. Enjoy sumptuous dining with expansive mountain views. Golf on the world famous Stanley Thompson golf course, hike down the Spray Valley to the site of the original Rundle $125 Stone quarry or take a guided history tour of the Castle. Meet an Artist in Residence or indulge in some pampering in for use towards golf, dining or spa. our world-class Willow Stream Spa. Experience history in the making at this beloved landmark hotel!

1 866 540 4406 fairmont.com/banffsprings

Media_Planet_125_Ad.indd 1 3/26/2013 12:07:10 PM AN independent SUPPLEMENT by mediaplanet TO THE NATIONAL POST AN independent SUPPLEMENT by mediaplanet TO THE NATIONAL POST MARCH 2013 · 7 insight news

Don’t miss!

water’s edge below. Talk about one of Erica Durance Banff’s perfect moments! Actress and Producer Erica Durance expresses ■ Q: What would you suggest her love for her home town for future Albertan travellers province to experience in the summer? ■ Erica Durance is a producer and A: In 1929, the very young Winston ON TOP OF IT ALL lead actress on the new dynamic Churchill decided to extend his stay Mountain climbers reaching for the medical television series Saving from one day to two days at the best views. Hope which premiered on NBC Photo: Banff Lake Louise Tourism Banff Springs Hotel. What did he and CTV. Many fans know her as do on his second day? He didn’t golf from the WB/CW series, but smoked his cigar, hiked and , which she completed after 7 years on the show. Her painted a beautiful small painting many notable guest appearances of the Bow River Valley which is include “Wonder Woman” on still displayed today in his official Harry’s Law with Kathy Bates for studio at Chartwell Place in Kent, NBC, and Samantha Masters in England. Whether you are a nature Summer in the Rockies ABC’s Charlie’s Angels. lover, sports enthusiast, camper, international traveller or an Alber- ou might think of facts trails in the area,” says Locke. “You As an Albertan girl, what tan, Banff National Park has so the Rockies as a can even have a leisurely meal on one are your favorite activities much to offer and experience. Yes, dreamy place to be in of the decks of the hotels, or if you’re to do in the summer? the call of the mountains is beck- the winter, but have ■■3.21 million people visited the 1,600 km of hiking trails culturally-inclined, go and enjoy a ■ I love riding bikes and log roll- oning you personally to come and you considered how Rockies in 2010, Tourism Alberta ■■Banff Springs is a world- concert at the Banff Center.” ing in the cow pastures. Also, I discover its culture, historic lodges much fun it could be ■■About 57% of visits include at renowned golf course that is also Stanton and Locke have both noted love the time just after harvest. and supernatural beauty. to go in the summer least one overnight stop featured in the video game, Tiger that there are plenty of visitors who It’s amazing to go four-wheeling months?Y Whether it’s to explore the ■■Banff, Jasper, Lake Louise, Woods PGA Tour 13 prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery through the grain fields at top landscape or relax in front of a great Kananaskis and Canmore are ■■90 minute drive from Calgary; from afar, opting for the amenities of speeds. With my family and view, those who live in the Rockies say among the popular towns or villages 2 hours, 45 minutes from Edmonton a hotel or resort instead. Most of the friends, it usually involved run- the area has something for everyone. to visit and stay in (bypassing Calgary). hotels and resorts have been reno- ning over someone’s foot. But Tourism in the region is noth- ■■Banff National Park has over vated or rebuilt over the years, but there was always no harm done, ing new, and residents believe that their footprints have remained the there were just a lot of laughs. the scenery is a key reason why. The ing boots on and go up to the Plain of from Banff. It’s 290km to go from Banff same, says Locke. The proximity to mountains overlook a large low-ele- Six Glaciers,” says Stanton. “Next, I to Jasper across the Icefield Parkway, Calgary and Edmonton also makes it What are some of your vation area where glaciated peaks and would suggest going to some of the but Stanton says it’s worth it for the possible to stay for a day or two. favorite places to travel to endless forests dominate the land- valleys through the park on a day scenery and the golf course there, too. Weather can vary, but because of and visit in Alberta? scape. Turqoise-coloured lakes with hike. There are plenty to research “You could easily spend a week here the low elevation, there is little wind ■ I love to visit Banff, Lake Lou- flowery meadows are an impressive beforehand, and there are probably 10 golfing with all the courses available,” in the summer and temperatures usu- ise because the mountains are so foreground to the rugged mountains different ones that are easily access- he adds. ally average around 20 or 25-degrees beautiful. serving as a backdrop. ible, especially if you love horseback for daytime highs. Stanton points out The area has long been a destina- riding. With a vehicle, it’s just a 15 or Charlie Locke, owner of the Lake that a hat, light sweater, gloves and Can you tell us a childhood memory of a vacation tion for avid skiers, snowboarders and 20-minute drive.” Louse Ski Area resort, agrees, citing an waterproof jacket should be taken on you’ve had in the province? hikers, though activities like, rowing, excursion to the Columbia Icefields any excursion outdoors, just in case. ■ kayaking and whitewater rafting have Golfers, regardless of their skill and the as a unique “Summer in the Canadian Rockies A favourite childhood mem- ory of mine is a family vacation been just as prominent in the summer level, will find the area teeming with summer getaway for a day. Riding the is high season, and nowhere else in to visit the dunes in Drumheller. months, says Kevin Stanton, General high-quality courses. Banff Springs gondola at Lake Louise is another, par- the world can one have such immedi- We picnicked along the Red Deer Manager at Brewster Adventures in is renowned as a world class course, ticularly because grizzly bear sight- ate access to unlimited hiking at low River. We kept it simple. Lake Louise. Having been in the area and there’s a government-run one in ings from the lift are an almost daily elevation,” says Stanton. since 1972, he knows the terrain well, Kananaskis, less than an hour’s drive occurrence, he adds. and suggests visitors actively enjoy from either Banff or Calgary. The town “Rent a canoe on Lake Louise, Lor- Heather ritche what it has to offer. of Canmore has three courses, and raine Lake or in Banff, or just rent a Ted Kritsonis [email protected] “Get on a horse or put a pair of hik- is about a 25-minute drive southeast bike and explore some of the excellent [email protected] Events in the Rockies Banff Lake Louise Jasper Canmore Bike Fest Taste of Jasper 24 Hours of Adrenalin June 13-16, 2013 April 5-13, 2013 July 20, 2013

Race at a higher level! 5 Race Stages. 4 days. A $20,000 prize purse. Jasper’s taking it’s culinary scene to the next level! From Friday, For 20 years the 24 Hours of Adrenalin has become the “not You’ll be hard pressed to find a more spectacular setting than April 5th through Saturday, April 13th, Jasper’s restaurants are to miss event” of the summer. Geared towards the highly Banff National Park. 500 cyclists from Western Canada and the creating unique and appetizing food and drink experiences to desirable weekend warrior outdoor market in a format that US will participate in five competitive events and two family include in the Taste of Jasper line-up. is focused on teamwork, camaraderie, family and friends. friendly events fromJune 13th to 16th, 2013. Come test your The first 24 Hours of Adrenalin (in Alberta) was staged at the mettle in Canada’s finest bike race. Canmore Nordic Centre with just over 100 participants tak- ing part. Now each year the event sells out nearly a year in advance at our capped participant number of 1,650. Glenbow Museum na-4465-10 CPR Archives ns19709

Performance in the Park Grounded in the Rockies TransRockies Timeless Luxury. Timely Celebration. June 22, 2013 May 3-5, 2013 July 27 – August 2, 2013 Celebrate the arrival of summer in the beautiful natural out- Grounded in the Rockies will offer a unique opportunity to The TransRockies Challenge, North America’s original moun- door setting of Banff National Park, featuring royal Canadian escape, re-energize and experience a wide variety of yoga ses- tain bike stage race offers riders epic 1, 3, 4 or 7 day adventures songstress Serena Ryder. sions - something for everyone and every skill level lead by expert with the most singletrack, spectacular mountain vistas, and instructors. best-in-class rider support. Stage 6 takes place at Rafter Six 125th Castle Celebration Package Guest Ranch in Kananaskis and the last stage of the race, stage 7, finishes on Main Street in downtown Canmore. resort credit of Celebrate 125 years of legendary hospitality at The Fairmont Banff Springs, Canada’s Castle in the Rockies. In honour of this significant birthday, we have created a special offer available for our entire anniversary year. Spend two nights Banff Marathon Jasper Motorcycle Run Canmore Folk Music Festival August 3 - 5, 2013 in luxurious comfort and enjoy a daily resort credit of $125. Enjoy sumptuous dining with expansive mountain views. June 23, 2013 August 24, 2013 Golf on the world famous Stanley Thompson golf course, hike down the Spray Valley to the site of the original Rundle Participants start 42 kilometers from Banff, run down the Bow The Jasper Motorcycle Run will provide an opportunity to enjoy The Canmore Folk Music Festival is the longest running folk $125 Stone quarry or take a guided history tour of the Castle. Meet an Artist in Residence or indulge in some pampering in Valley Parkway and finish in beautiful downtown Banff. It music festival in Alberta and one of its finest. Adhering to a fantastic scenery, meet plenty of people, and win great prizes! for use towards golf, philosophy and legacy of folk, world, blues and roots music, the our world-class Willow Stream Spa. Experience history in the making at this beloved landmark hotel! is the running adventure of a lifetime. The scenery is breath- Select Jasper hotels will be offering great accommodation pack- dining or spa. taking and you will experience many different interpretive ages, so come out for the whole weekend! festival since 1978 has attracted up to 15,000 music fans annu- geographical, wilderness and historical stages on your trek. ally from across southern Alberta, western Canada, the north- 1 866 540 4406 fairmont.com/banffsprings western USA and indeed the world.

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