Banff and Jasper

As I head to Banff, I decided to take the hwy up through Kamloop instead of the main road (advice given by many J). I definitely agree! I took my time and found wonderful rest areas to stay the night at. Most had spectacular views!  As I got closer to Lake Louise I found it difficult to find a spot to camp, so I ened up in the overflow parking lot lol. For 10 dollars you get to park your rig and unhitch to go explore. It was a gloomy day but the water was still a spectacular blue/green. Definatley worth the overnight!  When I finally got to Banff, I stayed at Tunnel Mountain Village Campground. I highly recommend it! It is close to town and easy to unhitch and go explore this quaint town. There are so many places to sit outside and eat or people watch, so it was no problem with my little pup, Shorty. I walked the river, the town and enjoyed the many stores. Charming little town.

I was on the fence on heading to Jasper, but everyone said it is worth the drive. My gosh they were not joking! This was one of my favorite drives yet! Stopped at the Icefields and soooo many viewpoints that just took my brain to a relaxed place. Stunningly magnificent views!  Jasper itself was full as far as campsites go (naturally with all this beauty), so I stayed at the overfill campground a short drive out of town. It was perfect! No electric or water for my creature comforts but it was just fine. Great little camp area! I met a friend there and we had a campfire and dinner at his camp and discussed places to go and life. So fun to meet people! Jasper is such a friendly place and not quite as touristy as Banff. Loads of little black bears that seem to adapt with people well. I believe they are more afraid of us, than we are of them lol. What a fantastic area to explore!

It was time to head out to Montana, and the weather was crazy, rain that pounded the roads and made it very difficult to see. I did take the storm mountains route so at least the name lived up!  I drove 12 hours to Polson, Montana to relax and visit family.