BANFF NATIONAL PARK - Canadian Rockies: Including Banff and Jasper National Parks - page 86

ary that features ice sculpting on the frozen lake in front of the Chateau Lake Louise, the
Lake Louise Loppet, live theater, a photography competition, and a spelling bee.
SHOPPING
Banff Avenue is renowned for its shops, but in reality has evolved into a continuous stretch
of tacky tourist shops and international chains. An exception is About Canada (105 Banff
Ave., 403/760-2996), which does an excellent job of sourcing Canadian-made gifts.
Canadiana and Clothing
Few companies in the world were as responsible for the development of a country as was
the Hudson's Bay Company (HBC) in Canada. Founded in 1670, the HBC established
trading posts throughout western Canada, many of which attracted settlers, forming the
nucleus for towns and cities that survive today, including Alberta's capital, Edmonton.
HBC stores continue their traditional role of providing a wide range of goods, in towns
big and small across the country. In Banff, the HBC store is at 125 Banff Avenue (403/
762-5525).
Another Canadian store, this one famous for its fleeces, sweaters, leather goods, and
as supplier to the Canadian Olympic teams, is Roots (227 Banff Ave., 403/762-9434). For
belts, buckles, and boots, check out the Trail Rider Store (132 Banff Ave., 403/762-4551).
Also check out the Rude Boys Snowboard Shop (215 Banff Ave., 403/762-8480), down-
stairs in the Sundance Mall, but don't expect to find anything suitable for your grandpar-
ents.
Camping and Outdoor Gear
Inexpensive camping equipment and supplies can be found in Home Hardware (221 Bear
St., 403/762-2080). More specialized needs are catered to at Monod Sports (129 Banff
Ave., 403/762-4571). Locally owned Abominable Ski & Sportswear (229 Banff Ave.,
403/762-2905) has a good selection of hiking boots.
Gifts and Galleries
Banff's numerous galleries display the work of mostly Canadian artists. Canada House
Gallery (201 Bear St., 403/762-3757) features a wide selection of Canadian landscape and
wildlife works and native art. The Quest Gallery (105 Banff Ave., 403/762-2722) offers
a diverse range of affordable Canadian paintings and crafts, as well as more exotic pieces
such as mammoth tusks from prehistoric times and Inuit carvings from Nunavut. Browse