It pays to get up with the sun in the mountains. If you’re looking for cooler weather, quieter trails or simply to extend your day for more adventure time, morning activities might be for you.
Here are five ways you can make the most of being a morning person in the Canadian Rockies.
One of the clearest perks for early birds is the ability to save a little money on your next adventure — especially if the kids are tagging along. At the Banff Gondola, kids go free for the first two hours of the day with the Family Experience package, so getting to Sulphur Mountain when the attraction opens means both lower costs and an incredible morning view from the top.
You might also want to plan an early trip for the Columbia Icefield Adventure, because kids go free here before 10 a.m., too. Experience alpine magic aboard an Ice Explorer and step onto the Athabasca Glacier as the morning sun rises above the peaks. Then head over to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk (included with your tickets) to see the Sunwapta Valley from 280 metres in the air.
Looking to explore even further? Visit Golden Skybridge in the morning to take advantage of the discounted Early Riser Adventure Pass.
Mornings bring calm, picturesque conditions to the mountain lakes of Banff and Jasper. And there's no better way to experience the awe-inspiring scenery that awaits beyond the shoreline than with an A.M. lake cruise.
Sail the mellow morning waters in Banff with a Lake Minnewanka Cruise. This alpine lake adventure takes you to sights only accessible by boat, all while knowledgeable guides share history, geology and other fascinating stories of the area.
On the Canadian Rockies largest glacially-fed lake, Maligne Lake Cruise in Jasper allows access to similarly incredible sights, including the photogenic Spirit Island and the awe-inspiring Hall of the Gods — a breathtaking landscape of massive mountain peaks.
When the morning mists retreat, they reveal a landscape that seems simultaneously brand new and ancient. Find truly quiet nature experiences — and maybe spot some wildlife — in Banff and Jasper on the trail by foot or bike.
Banff's most popular trails are consistently busy during peak season. Early mornings are a necessity for those looking to take on hikes like Plain of Six Glaciers, Johnston Canyon or Larch Valley. Consider a pre-dawn wake up to find adequate parking and to catch the sunrise at the peak.
In Jasper, hiking and mountain biking trails are often less busy. But it’s still worth waking up early for the calm morning air and cooler temperatures (don’t be fooled — it can get hot in the mountains when the afternoon sun is beating down). Setting an alarm for longer hikes, like Edith Cavell or Wilcox Pass Trail, is also a must.
Early risers know that an on-the-go breakfast can be essential in properly reaping morning’s benefits. But if you prefer slow starts, mimosas and French toast, you’ll want to check out some of the incredible brunch options in the mountains.
In Banff, head to Farm & Fire for a brunch menu focused on Canadian cuisine, or pop into Brazen in the heart of town to indulge in elevated classics. In Jasper, make the trip to Aalto for a Pyramid Lake-side breakfast experience, or Terra for an Alberta-sourced breakfast that will surely fuel you for a day of adventure.
Tip: From April 5 to May 11, you can enjoy brunch favourites atop Sulphur Mountain. The Banff Gondola’s Bloom & Brunch Festival celebrates the arrival of spring at the summit, with a mimosa bar, live music, floral photo opportunities and more.
Seize the day with a tour, courtesy of Brewster Sightseeing. Most tours of the Rocky Mountains depart bright and early, so make sure to get up and get going to the must-see sights. The best part? You don’t have to drive! Sit back, sip your morning coffee and soak in some of the world’s most spectacular scenery.
From roaring waterfalls to alpine meadows, the best way to explore more of the mountains is aboard a Brewster tour, complete with modern amenities, on-board refreshments and large windows for optimal views.
Inspired to do some early exploration? Stay the night and start your day right with hotel options in the heart of Banff and Jasper.
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