More Photos

My visit to Canada was the last place that I explored on my ‘incredible round the world journey’ in spring 2007. It was the perfect end to the perfect dream. It was still springtime, so a mixture of warmth in the valleys, but cold on the snow capped mountains.

Whatever else you pack...don't forget your camera! The photo opportunities are too good to miss.

When I landed in Vancouver on Saturday 21st April 2007 there were some great moments just about to be discovered. After a night in Vancouver it was up early to board the legendary ‘Rocky Mountaineer Train’ to Banff. As we pulled away from the station, a few of us introduced ourselves and sat back to enjoy what is often described as one of the most amazing train journeys in the world. 585 miles of lush green forests, raging rivers, spectacular gorges and majestic mountains. At the end of the first day we stopped for the night at Kamloops. We were entertained at a great show called ‘Two River Junction’ and continued on our two day train journey towards Banff. We saw many different animals and birds over the two days, however we were all looking for grizzly bears but we were told that they were due to come out of hibernation in a couple of weeks time. Thanks to the staff that looked after me on the train, they were very friendly, knowledgeable, enthusiastic and sometimes quite humorous as they carried out their duties.

When I arrived in Banff, I was impressed with the town. Great restaurants, cafes and shops with crafts from around the Rocky Mountain areas. I was delighted with my timber lodge up the mountain at Hidden Ridge. I remember lighting the real log fire and looking into the forest, thinking how lucky I was to be in this kind of setting. The air was so fresh and clean. As I opened the blind across the patio doors, I found myself looking straight into the eyes of a reindeer. I couldn't’t believe it, rushed for my camera and managed to get a few great shots as you can see amongst my photos.

I hired a car for a few days and drove to see Lake Louise. In the summer the lake is turquoise and looks a picture with snow capped mountains as a backdrop. I was a bit early to see this as the lake was frozen with two feet of snow on top, but it still looked spectacular.

If you get a chance to visit Banff, try and get to see Bow Falls and Lake Minniewanka. They were both great to see and photograph, and you might be lucky enough to spot some big horned mountain sheep. Canada is a great place for photographers as there is so much scope.

So, after a day in Vancouver, two days on The Rocky Mountaineer train and five days in Banff, it was time to visit Calgary.

I wish I could have spent longer here as it has lots to offer. The shops were great and varied. There were many parks to stroll through and great restaurants to eat in. The Bow River flows around the city and apparently is great for fishing.

I hope you enjoy looking at my photos.

Thank you for reading my journal.