Things to do in Improvement District No. 9

Banff National Park is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, defined by a picture-perfect mountain landscape of rugged peaks, sparkling lakes and powerful rivers. Spanning 2,564 square miles (6,641 square kilometers), the park is part of the iconic Canadian Rockies mountain range. Enjoy hiking, fishing, skiing and wildlife watching, or simply relax in natural hot springs and admire the park’s majestic natural scenery.

Moraine Lake is one of the most photographed scenes in Canada. The “Twenty Dollar View” takes in the turquoise lake and ten surrounding mountains. The vista was once the picture on the back of 20-dollar notes in Canada, and the nickname stuck.

Upper Hot Springs is a thermal pool within the gorgeous landscapes of Banff National Park. Come here to relax in the geothermally heated and bubbling mineral water that flows from the Earth’s crust through the Sulphur Mountain Thrust Fault. Marvel at panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains as the therapeutic water cleanses and soothes your body. Have a scenic picnic or eat at the café at Upper Hot Springs.

Find adventure sports, breathtaking mountain scenery and wildlife at Lake Louise Ski Resort. Ski on challenging trails, enjoy a scenic gondola ride or hike through forests seeking wildlife. The resort is within Banff National Park, part of the Canadian Rockies. It offers over 4,200 acres (1,670 hectares) of skiable terrain, exquisite dining and lively après-ski entertainment.

Sunshine Village Ski and Snowboard Resort is located in Banff National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering skiers and riders more than 3,300 acres (1,335 hectares) of skiable terrain with 12 high-speed lifts and 111 runs. The ski season runs from early November through late May and features hiking at Sunshine Meadows between June and October. New for the 2015-16 ski season is Canada’s first heated chairlift complete with heated seats, orange bubble covers and footrests.

Some of the best views in the Canadian Rockies can be enjoyed from the top of Sulphur Mountain. Take the Banff Gondola to the summit. The eight-minute ride offers spectacular views from a glass-enclosed cabin. The Summit Complex at the end of the gondola ride has restaurants, a gift shop and multiple viewing platforms. Look out over six different mountain ranges, through valleys and down onto the town of Banff.

Alberta shines at the Norquay Ski Resort. Vacation at Banff Mount Norquay to discover that it isn't only about Noquay skiing. Get set for snowboarding and tubing adventures as well. Whether you have ventured out by yourself, have decided to take a couple's getaway, or want fun for the whole family, Norquay will give you the time of your life.