This Summer, Beat The Florida Heat
visit Canada’s Western Mountains – where cool is more than a vibe, It’s A climate
Floridians, we know you can handle the heat, but why suffer through sweltering summer temperatures when you can escape to the Canadian Rockies or Canada’s West Coast mountains. Trade humidity for refreshing alpine air and enjoy temperatures perfect for outdoor activities; temperatures that won’t leave you feeling like a boiled clam in a pot. Here are few items to help you book your summer escape to one or more of of our spectacular destinations – Jasper, Banff, Lake Louise, and Whistler.
Stunning Mountain Scenery:
While Florida boasts beautiful beaches and lush greenery (and we love your sunshine and palm trees!), our mountain playgrounds offer a completely different landscape. Change it up a bit. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of towering peaks, emerald lakes, and lush forests. Witness the vibrant colors of wildflowers in bloom against the backdrop of breathtaking snow-capped mountains. And experience the Northern Lights in any of our destinations… although Jasper is best for aurora chasers.
JASPER NATIONAL PARK
Photo Credit: Ryan Bray
Stunning Mountain Scenery – Tips:
- Whistler: While Whistler isn’t in a national park like our other mountain destinations, the outdoor adventures, wildlife spotting and scenic views are just as good. Better yet, summer is not Whistler’s high season so the rates are great and the crowds are few.
- Jasper: Canada’s best kept secret has to be Jasper National Park. Our “Rocky safaris” provide some of the best wildlife viewing – with plenty of opportunities to see Grizzlies, Black Bears, Big Horn Sheep, Moose and more. For a real treat, book your stay at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge where you will inevitably encounter the resident gang of elk.
- Banff & Lake Louise: Banff and Lake Louise are situated in Banff National Park, Canada’s oldest national park and a UNESCO world heritage site. In Summer (peak season), being a guest at one of our Fairmonts or the Rimrock Hotel, affords you “front-of-the-line” access to Lake Louise & the Victoria Glacier.
Additional Tips:
- Check out Larch Season in Banff National Park. During this period, the larch trees’ needles turn a vibrant golden yellow, creating stunning autumn landscapes. This transformation attracts many to popular hiking trails such as Larch Valley, Sentinel Pass, and the Saddleback Pass. The season only lasts a few weeks, making it a highly anticipated and cherished time for both locals and tourists.
- In summer, the Icefields Parkway is a spectacular drive through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, connecting Banff & Jasper National Parks. The route is lined with towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and cascading waterfalls, providing endless opportunities for breathtaking views and outdoor adventures. Popular stops along the way include the Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake, and Athabasca Falls.
Outdoor Adventures:
Your water sports are bar-none but we have plenty to offer well above sea level. From hiking and mountain biking to kayaking and whitewater rafting, the Canadian Rockies and Coastal mountains are playgrounds for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore endless trails that wind through pristine wilderness, paddle across serene glacier lakes, or embark on thrilling whitewater rafting adventures. With longer daylight hours in the summer, (it can be light as late as 11pm) there’s ample time to indulge in your favorite activities.
LAKE LOUISE
Photo Credit: Travel Alberta / Mike Seehagel
From Novice to Extreme – Something for Everyone:
- Trails: From leisurely trails stolls to advanced vertical hiking
- Rock Climbing: The town of Banff offers a lively atmosphere with its rich arts scene, diverse dining options, and vibrant nightlife, making it a perfect destination for those who enjoy socializing after skiing.
- Watersports: Experience some of Canada’s most dramatic mountain vistas and pristine wilderness, providing a picturesque setting that enhances every ski run.
Additional Tips:
BEST HIKES
- Banff: The most popular trail in Banff National Park is the Johnston Canyon Trail. This trail features a series of catwalks and bridges that lead hikers through a dramatic canyon with stunning views of waterfalls and deep pools. It is accessible year-round and offers two main viewpoints: the Lower Falls, which is an easy 1.1-kilometer (0.7-mile) hike, and the Upper Falls, which is a moderate 2.7-kilometer (1.7-mile) hike from the trailhead.
- Jasper: The most popular trail in Jasper National Park is the Maligne Canyon Trail. This trail takes hikers through a deep, narrow gorge with dramatic limestone walls, waterfalls, and unique rock formations. The route features several bridges that provide spectacular views of the canyon below, and the trail can be tailored to different fitness levels, with options for short or extended hikes.
- Whistler: The most popular trail in Whistler is the Garibaldi Lake Trail. This trail offers a moderate to challenging hike through lush forests, alpine meadows, and volcanic landscapes, culminating in stunning views of the turquoise waters of Garibaldi Lake. The hike is approximately 18 kilometers (11 miles) round trip and is known for its breathtaking scenery, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts and photographers.
BEST LAKE EXPERIENCES
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- BEST LAKE EXPERIENCES
Wildlife Encounters
While Florida is known for its diverse wildlife (gators and manatee are very cool), the Canadian Rockies and Coastal mountains offer unique opportunities to see a different selection of animals in their natural habitat. Keep your eyes peeled for bears, elk, moose, big horn sheep and more as you explore the national parks and remote wilderness areas. Sometimes you need only hit one of our world-class golf courses to see the locals. Play through!
Photo Credit: Travel Alberta / Jake Dyson
Top 3 Reasons to Ski Lake Louise:
- Iconic Scenery: The iconic frozen Lake Louise, set against towering peaks, provides one of the most photogenic backdrops in the world, making it a skier’s and snowboarder’s paradise.
- World-Class Skiing: Lake Louise Ski Resort offers diverse terrain for all levels and includes the exclusive “First Tracks” experience, allowing guests to enjoy the slopes before they officially open.
- Reset & Recharge: With the Chateau tucked away at the top of the hill in the valley, it offers not only moments of solitude but also a wide variety of wellness classes from yoga and beyond.
Available Passes:
Whistler: The Crown Jewel of Canadian Skiing
Whistler Blackcomb is one of the largest and most famous ski resorts in North America, and its name resonates worldwide.
Photo Credit: Tourism Whistler/Vince Emond
Top 3 Reasons to Ski Whistler:
- Unparalleled Size and Variety: Whistler Blackcomb is one of the largest ski resorts in North America, offering over 8,000 acres of terrain spread across two mountains, suitable for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Seemingly infinite skiing!
- Bustling Village Life: Whistler Village is famous for its pedestrian-friendly layout and vibrant après-ski scene, featuring an array of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- Ski-In Ski-Out Lodging: The Chateau offers the convenience of walking from your room to the mountain in just a few steps. Stop by the Ski Concierge for complimentary warm beverages and extraordinary service.
Available Passes:
- Single & Multi-Day
- Epic PASS
- Season Pass
- EDGE Card (Exclusive to Canadians and Washington State)
Tips for Your Ski Adventure
- Timing is Everything: Depending on snow conditions, the best time to visit these destinations is from late November to early April. Always check the resort websites for the most up-to-date information.
- Gear Up: If you don’t own ski gear, don’t worry—most resorts offer rentals.
- Dress in Layers: Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so dressing in layers will allow you to adapt to changing conditions.
- Explore Beyond the Slopes: Each destination offers a variety of other winter activities, such as ice skating, snowshoeing, and tours. Make the most of your visit by exploring these options.
From the tranquil beauty of Jasper to the bustling energy of Whistler, Canada’s ski destinations offer a blend of adventure and peaceful escapes against some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. So, pack your gear, hit the slopes, and let the majestic snow-capped mountains work their magic on you.
Book Your Stay
Ready to experience the best skiing in Canada? Book your stay at Fairmont Hotels in Jasper, Banff, Lake Louise, or Whistler today, and discover the luxury, comfort, and adventure that awaits you this ski season!
Or stay at The Rimrock Resort Hotel and stay above the rest of them.
Special Offers
Ski offers are available here. Either book the full ski package, or if you’d like to stay longer, book the longer you stay, the more you save offer and get your lift ticket separately.