Banff National Park December 11, 2024

 

spirit of the season in snowy surroundings

A short distance west from Banff looks more like the view in my promo painted photo I have been using to start each of these Banff blog stories.  It was a gorgeous drive along the Bow Valley Parkway to Johnston Canyon. By the time I was ready to start hiking, a bit of morning pink still remained in the sky. I was feeling on the lazy side today so made the viewpoint above the Upper Falls my destination.  This was the view from the first bridge over to the main trail.  

Strolling along the catwalk was so enjoyable!  The trees were dressed in winter white, there was more open water than normal running through the Canyon which created a soothing sound.  I was first to arrive in the parking lot, so shared the catwalk with no others.  

I descended down to the Lower Falls for a quick visit but I prefer to spend more time at the Upper Falls.  This stretch of catwalk leads down to a viewing platform at the end.  

view from the viewing platform 

After looking up at the Upper Falls, I ascended the trail that leads to a view of the Upper Falls at eye level.  I made this my destination location.  I settled in on the bench to savour the sights, snacks and sips of my hot beverage.  I secretly hoped I would see the fox I saw the last time I was in the area, no luck though.  There were two squirrels that entertained me.  

On the hike back, I veered off through the forest to where the cabins were located.  I probably should not have been there.  I meandered about and found the cabin I stayed in during early October of 2022. If there was a chair on the deck, I would have settled in for more snacks and sips.  The cabins are closed for the winter season.

a pile of firewood near my cabin 

I found my way out of the cabin area and aimed for the parking lot.  I continued west along the Bow Valley Parkway.  I owned the road so stopped to capture this view of Castle Mountain through my windshield.

after crossing this bridge, I pulled off to the side where there was a trail down to the river

These views greeted me from the riverside.

enjoyed time by the fire to end my day