Night Photography at Two Jacks Lake

Of all the lakes in the Banff area, this was one of my favorites to get out on the water. Don't expect the bright blue glacial waters of some of the other lakes in the Canadian Rockies, but the water is pristine and it was one of the few places I went where it felt like it was all locals hanging out.If you are coming from the town of Banff, take the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive until you reach...

Bankhead is a ghost town which flanks Cascade Mountain and lies just south of Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park. The main portion of the ghost town is located in Lower Bankhead, which can be reach by traveling North on Range Rd 1158 (closed Nov - Apr), following the signs to Lake Minnewanka. The turn-off on the right is easy to miss, but is located at (51.232523, -115.524069). Upon turning...

This is a well-traveled hike, so if you stay on the path, you'll likely need only a good pair of boots. However, in the middle of winter, the lake freezes solid, and you might enjoy exploring a little out on the frozen lake like we did. Snowshoes definitely came in handy out there.This is a very picturesque trail that weaves in and out of Douglas fir, spruce and pine trees, and loops around the...

As you drive towards Johnson Lake, the road will end at a parking lot where you should park. There are restrooms and picnic tables located in this same area.  Due to the low elevation, the trail around Johnson Lake is a gentle walk, but trail conditions should always be checked especially during snow season.  The main trail is 2.2 miles and will take you around Johnson Lake. To visit the cabin,...

Head up to Lake Minnewanka on a high alert night to get the perfect view of the Canadian Northern Lights. You can go online to get updates on the best times to go and where they will be the brightest. While the dam at the lake may be overrun with people, explore around and you can find a nice empty viewing spot. Alternately, you can head to one of the many campsites on the Lake trail before Jul...

The "Green Spot" is a beautiful grassy slope that opens up to sweeping views of downtown Banff and the surrounding area.  It's a great spot for photography, especially capturing the peak of Mt. Rundle.  There's also a set of chairs conveniently placed on the slope so you can kick back and enjoy the sunset. Getting there from downtown Banff is easy.  You'll head north up Mt. Norquay Road passing...