Canada's Majestic Rockies

Canada’s Majestic Rockies

 

                                                                                                Lee Hyon-soo

 

Canada is known for its scenic splendor. Chief among its natural attractions is the Canadian Rockies. I was fascinated by the mountain range, so much so that I have visited it three times. Let me reminisce about my first visit.

 

In a summer gone by, I set out on a journey to the Canadian Rockies, one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. The Rocky Mountains are the largest mountain range in North America, stretching over 3,000 miles from northwestern Canada down to New Mexico in the United States. The Canadian portion of the Rockies is home to some of the most majestic peaks in North America, including Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and the iconic Mount Assiniboine.

 

As I boarded the plane bound for Calgary, Alberta, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of excitement and anticipation. After the plane landed, I made my way to Banff, a nearby resort town which is one of Canada’s most popular tourist destinations. The drive was nothing short of stunning; the rugged mountains, the dense forests, and the sparkling rivers all combined to create a landscape that was both majestic and serene.

 

When I arrived in Banff, I immediately found myself settling into the laid-back pace of life. Banff National Park offers incredible scenic drives, hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.

 

I proceeded to Lake Louise, one of the most photogenic spots in Canada. I took a stroll along the lakeshore for a couple of hours admiring the scenic beauty of the lake. The turquoise color of this lake is caused by the presence of glacial rock flour, which reflects the sunlight in a way that creates surreal beauty.

 

After a short rest, I boarded a cable car, which took me to the summit of Sulphur Mountain where I enjoyed panoramic views of the town, the Bow Valley and the surrounding mountains. I also visited the Upper Hot Springs for a soothing soak in the hot, mineral-rich water. Relaxing in the outdoor pool among the jagged peaks of Rundle and Cascade Mountains was a magical experience.

 

On the second day, I explored the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world, spanning over 325 square kilometers. It contains eight major glaciers, including the Athabasca Glacier, which is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world. I joined other visitors to take the Ice Explorer Tour. I travelled on a massive all-terrain vehicle to the Athabasca Glacier, a 10,000-year-old sheet of ice, on which I walked around and took a sip of glacier water. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Next, I headed to the glass-floored Skywalk for a jaw-dropping walk at the cliff’s edge.

 

The landscape of the Canadian Rockies is characterized by an incredible variety of natural wonders ranging from jagged peaks and deep valleys to shimmering alpine lakes and glistening glaciers. In addition to the natural beauty, the Canadian Rockies are home to an abundance of wildlife, including grizzly bears, wolves, elk, and mountain goats.

 

As my trip came to a close, I knew that the experience was one that I would never forget. Indeed, it was a journey that touched my soul and left me with a sense of wonder and awe that would stay with me forever.

 

Note: Reprinted from the April 20, 2023  issue of The Korea Times.