Banff, Jasper and Yoho National Parks I: The Icons

There are some locations, despite having been photographed constantly by the thousands of others, on an almost daily basis, that are still awe inspiring and worth experiencing and photographing. One of those iconic locations is here in Canada in the Rocky Mountain National Parks, including Banff, Jasper and Yoho. Unfortunately, most of these locations are so well known that massive overcrowding comes with the popularity. The best opportunities to see these spots is still in the morning, when only the more adventurous folk are awake. The two worst spots for crowding that we experienced on our trip were the Moraine Lake and Lake Louise areas in Banff National Park. Despite the traffic congestion, road closures and dense crowds it was still a fun experience. While in Banff we had the chance to visit several of the more popular spots with varied weather including rain, sunshine, a blizzard in July (!) and plenty of dappled light and colourful sunrises/sets.

One of our first stops was to see the majestic Mount Rundle from across the Bow river at the hoodoo's viewpoint.

Along the Lake Minnewanka loop road we stopped to check out Two Jack Lake where we got another view of Mount Rundle across the water and couple of Loons out searching for breakfast

Also on the loop is the vast Lake Minnewanka and it's rocky shores which looked great in the spotty light from the dramatic clouds passing overhead

We made a couple of trips up into the town of Lake Louise to explore and hike the areas around Lake Louise and Moraine Lake and despite it being so crowded and having to wake up and head out well before dawn, views around the area did not disappoint

Another classic view point near the town of Banff is the Vermillion lakes, a series of small ponds close to the bow river just outside of town. From the shores of the second lake, there is a great view of Mount Rundle, with a reflection in the water and lit by the last rays of sunlight streaking down the valley at the end of the day

My favourite spot to view the town of Banff and surrounding mountains and lakes is the "Green spot" part way up the side of Mount Norquay. On one of the days we visited we were treated to a rainbow as a series of showers passed through

A short drive up the Bow Vally Parkway lies the beautiful Johnston Canyon. We made our way there early in the morning on a rainy day to avoid the crowds. The canyon looks great in overcast light, and it was much easier to take photographs along the paths without other people around.

We ventured up the Icefields parkway to stay for a couple of days in the town of Jasper. Along the way we stopped at a couple of locations including the always popular Peyto Lake and the more secluded Mistaya Canyon.

In the next post I'll share some more images from the ice fields parkway and Jasper National Park...