Banff National Park

Established in 1855, Banff national park is Canada's oldest national park. Although the park is more than 6000 square kilometers in area, there are only two population centers, Banff and Lake Louise. Even in these centers the development is controlled by the national park, with residents not owning land but only leasing it from the park. In both of these centers it is not uncommon to encounter elk wandering around, munching serenly on whatever happens to be handy. It is important to note that, even in-town, the animals have right-of-way. Humans are only there on sufference.

Like it's sister park to the north (Jasper National Park), Banff National Park is a wildlife refuge, with elk, deer, and bighorn sheep easily visible even from the highway (hint: they are often seen early in the morning or late in the evening). Bears, wolves, coyotes and lynx can also be seen (albeit more rarely) and should be treated with the utmost respect (preferably from within a vehicle with the windows and doors closed).

The park is rife with mountain trails to walk, mountains to climb, and caves to crawl through. In the winter avalanches are a possibility, and care should be taken to consult the park wardens regarding your chosen destination.

OFFICIAL Banff National Park Home Page

More Info on Banff from Fleet House

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