Traversing a headlamp-lit subterranean world of twisting corridors, hanging stalactites and a crystal pool with Canmore Caverns is a year-round adventure often overlooked by Banff and area visitors. Participants slither through the 15-metre Laundry Chute, rappel 18-metres down a rock face and learn about the cave’s geology from knowledgeable guides.—Ashley Wong  

Peter Dettling, owner of Canmore’s Terra Magica gallery and author/photographer of The Will of the Land, shares favourite locations to see animals in winter: Icefields Parkway Ptarmigan Most birds leave in winter, but some adaptable species remain. At the south end viewpoint of Bow Lake (20 min north of Lake Louise, Map 1), a raven [...]

Snowy peaks might not bring to mind abundant local produce, but many Canadian Rockies chefs incorporate the bounty of Alberta’s agriculture year-round. From free-range meats to relish made from fall squash, conscientious diners can choose cuisine made with ingredients grown nearby. Alberta beef may be our most famous regional offering, but you might be surprised [...]

The owners of Silver Dragon Restaurant are of Cantonese origin, so the cuisine of this region comprises most of their menu. Stir fried, deep fried and steamed meats, fish and vegetables are lightly spiced (so natural flavours of the ingredients are showcased) and served with sauces such as oyster, black bean, and sweet and sour. [...]

By Meredith Bailey Improved gear and many tour choices make old-fashioned winter travel new again. Long before helicopters and chairlifts, winter activity enthusiasts accessed the Canadian Rockies backcountry with simple equipment and no mechanical help. Cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding and horse-drawn sleighs were essential modes of winter travel. Today people craving crowd-free, nature-rich escapes [...]

Museums are supported in part by proceeds from their gift shops. So feel good when you purchase unique products that include: Buffalo Nations Luxton Museum: handmade crafts by talented local First Nation artisans. Whyte Museum: art that reflects current exhibits (see their Art Shows & Sales), and historic photos from their archives. Canmore Museum & [...]

Melissa’s Restaurant has reintroduced their wheel-to-the-table steak cart, a fixture of the original restaurant that opened 32 years ago. After a 15-year hiatus, patrons considering a steak dinner can again view all 8 cuts of the AAA Alberta beef on offer—seeing the difference between tenderloin, ribeye and sirloin contributes to a more informed choice. Also [...]

A spa visit may not be a giant leap for mankind, but for some men it sure seems that way. Red Earth Spa offers a Sports Therapy Treatment for men that includes an aromatherapy plunge and massage designed to relieve muscle tension (great after skiing). But spa director Suzannah Patimios suggests men try a facial—even [...]

It was a tough assignment, but I was up to the task. So, I set out to visit the Canadian Rockies’ three brew pubs. Friends and I sampled their food, quaffed their house-made beers and filed this report. By Jack Newton Banff Avenue Brewing Co Last spring I watched as the owners of Banff Avenue [...]

Strap on skates and glory in gliding across natural ice: • The Victoria Glacier, giant ice castle and Ice Magic sculptures provide a wondrous atmosphere for the Zamboni-smooth Lake Louise rink behind the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. • Rundle Mountain view, firepit, benches and picnic tables provide ambiance for the Terrace rink behind the Fairmont [...]