BANFF NATIONAL PARK - Canadian Rockies: Including Banff and Jasper National Parks - page 80

class alpine resort and made the completion of his dream a lifelong obsession. Over
the years more lifts were constructed, and two runs-Olympic Men's Downhill and
Olympic Ladies' Downhill-were cut in anticipation of a successful bid for the 1968
Winter Olympics (the bid failed).
Rental packages are available from Snow Tips (225 Bear St., 403/762-8177) and
Mountain Magic Equipment (224 Bear St., 403/762-2591). Expect to pay $25-35 per
day. White Mountain Adventures (403/678-4099 or 800/408-0005) offers lessons for
$60 per person.
Ice-Skating
Skating rinks are located on the high school grounds across from Cascade Plaza and on
the golf course side of the Fairmont Banff Springs. The latter rink is lit after dark, and a
raging fire is built beside it—the perfect place to enjoy a hot chocolate. Early in the season
(check conditions first), skating is often possible on Vermilion Lakes and Johnson Lake.
Rent skates from Banff Springs Ski & Mountain Sports (Fairmont Banff Springs, 405
Spray Ave., 403/762-5333) for $8 per hour.
Sleigh Rides
Warner Guiding & Outfitting offers sleigh rides ($38 per person) on the frozen Bow
River throughout winter. For reservations, call 403/762-4551 or stop by the Trail Rider
Store (132 Banff Ave.).
Ice Walks
Between December and late March, Johnston Canyon, a 20-minute drive from Banff along
the Bow Valley Parkway, is a wonderland of frozen waterfalls. Two local companies, Dis-
cover Banff Tours (403/760-5007 or 877/565-9372) and White Mountain Adventures
(403/678-4099 or 800/408-0005), offer ice walks through the canyon. Both tours reach as
far as the Upper Falls and provide guests with ice cleats for their shoes and hot drinks to
take the chill off this outdoor activity. Transportation from Banff is included in the rates of
$70-75 per person.