The Tunnel Mountain Trail was only a few miles from our campground and it promised some magnificent views of the Bow River valley and the town of Banff. The trail actually begins in town, but we chose to park on the road which put us more than a third of the way up the mountain. The trail was pretty steep, but as we were trudging up the slope there were several people who jogged by us - show-offs!
I was happy to join this trail a third of the way up! The lower third looked even steeper than the upper two-thirds.
Looking east, we could see the Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course snuggled up against the Bow River.
Spotted Saxifrage
Looking west, the town of Banff nestled into the surrounding mountains with the Bow River meandering through it.
A little south west of the town, another view of the Banff Springs Hotel convinced us we need to check it out.
I'm not sure how I talked her into this picture, but it is one of my favorites and I appreciate that she let me post it. It was at the top of the mountain, so it's possible she was just too worn out to fight me.
As we were trying to find the Banff Springs Hotel, I could hear rushing water which lead us by chance to a beautiful water fall.
No hike necessary to see Bow Falls. A large parking area in front of the Banff Springs Hotel gives you access.
The Banff Springs Hotel was built starting in 1911 and finished in 1928.
It is easily within walking distance to the town of Banff (1mile).
We had a good time wandering around the hotel. It was surprising just how few people were wandering around with us. Joani found one store with some really unique knitting. They had yarn made with Yak wool (at least 15% Yak wool with 85% sheep wool). It was supposed to be exceptionally warm and lightweight and,of course, insanely expensive.
This beautiful, but somewhat dark hotel had such a different feeling than the bright and airy Lake Louise Chateau.
The one on the left is my knight in shining armor.
This hotel was very stately, but not very inviting.
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