New Story Ideas!

Discover the Untold Ski Stories of the Legendary Rockies, as Shot Through the Lens of Sherpas Cinema Cinematic Rockies' Series 'Sculpted in Time' Launched for Winter 2014-15
This winter, prepare to see the world-class ski terrain of Banff National Park as you've never seen it before. Acclaimed cinema production house, Sherpas Cinema, known for award-winning ski reels 'Into the Mind' and 'All I Can' has documented four dramatically-moving stories capturing the deep soul of ski in the Rockies. Shot on-mountain (and in the air) at Mt. Norquay, Lake Louise Ski Resort, Sunshine Village and in Banff's backcountry, 'Sculpted in Time' is a four-part, mini-film series capturing the untold stories of Banff's extraordinary ski terrain, taking a close look at local legends through the eyes of Sherpas Cinema filmmakers. SkiBig3.com
New for 2014!

Ski Banff-Lake Louise Sunshine Becomes the Newest Member of The Mountain Collective
Ski Banff‐Lake Louise-Sunshine is the newest destination to join The Mountain Collective. The Mountain Collective pass grants access to 15 mountains with more than 38,000 acres of terrain, 212 lifts and an unmatched reputation for snow quality, quantity and steeps! Ski Banff‐Lake Louise‐Sunshine will join six existing premier independent ski destinations in North America including AltaSnowbird, Aspen Snowmass, Jackson Hole, Mammoth Mountain, Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows and Whistler Blackcomb for the 2014-15 winter season. Discover world-class skiing in picturesque Banff with its three resorts and see why it's the latest ski destination to join the incredible roster of Mountain Collective destination, giving skiers and riders even more variety. SkiBig3.com
New for 2014!

Must-Try Summertime Activities at Banff's Ski Resorts
Calling all adrenalin junkies and foodie finders!
Banff's first 'Via Ferrata' experience is here. Mount Norquay launched the vertical, ultimate hiking experience for Summer 2014, offering a thrilling exposure and intimacy to the mountain face usually reserved for rock climbers. Literally translated from Italian as “iron-road”, Via Ferrata requires no pre-training or expertise – just the ability to climb a ladder! Lead by a certified guide, climbers will take an unforgettable journey up the cliffs, assisted by a fixed anchoring system of cables and ladders. Adventurers can venture across the 30m suspension bridge and feel the freedom of walking in mid-air at a height of 15m, with the dramatic views of Mount Rundle as their backdrop. BanffNorquay.com

In Lake Louise, Lake Louise Ski Resort this summer revealed a new 'high'-dining experience with the launch of Whitehorn Lodge Restaurant.
At an elevation of 6700ft (2042m) above sea level, this is the first on-mountain dining option of its kind in Lake Louise, offering an upscale menu for summer scenery-seekers complete with rustic, Canadiana dining delights, as well as refined signature cocktails and deluxe hot beverages. Diners can satisfy their tastebuds as they take in Lake Louise Ski Resort's legendary 365 degree mountain panorama. Hikers can also take the challenge of reaching the summit of Mount Whitehorn or for the less-extreme, there's the opportunity to explore a trail or two with one of the resort's knowledgeable mountain guides. SkiLouise.com
New for 2014!

Ever Wanted to Explore the Rockies with the Help of a 'Bike Concierge'..?
Fat Bike, Moped or Road Bike Your Way Around Banff National Park
The very best way to get around and explore all corners of Banff National Park is on two wheels – and there have never been so many options to get those wheels turning. New to Banff for the Summer of 2014, Banff Cycle is offering riders of all levels the chance to hit the road on a Cervelo road bike and experience the thrill of Banff's stunning playground with their very own 'Bike Concierge'. Yep, for those that don't have the equipment or know-how, Banff Cycle offers a drop-off, door-to-door rental service and dedicated expert guide to escort both individuals and groups on the journey of their lives – your 'Bike Concierge' will happily design you a custom-fit ride based on what you need and how extreme you want to go, from one day trips to one week adventures! BanffCycle.com
Missed a trip to Banff in the summer? No problem – take to the trails of Banff National Park in the winter too, on a fat bike! The trend of fat-biking in the winter months is growing rapidly and comes to Banff for the winter of 2014-15 – the ideal way to enjoy many types of trails, packed, groomed or fresh powder snow covered! Rentals available from Snowtips-Bactrax.com
Mountain Zen - Take Some R&R in the Rockies

Be Good to Yourself and Find Full Zen in the Mountains of Banff National Park
The natural hot springs in Banff National Park are where it all started – the establishment of the Canadian National Parks system that is, as well as Banff's love of all things R&R. Long ago, back in 1883, travelers were allured to the warm natural springs for their medicinal qualities and journeyed to Banff on the newly constructed Canadian Pacific Railway to take a dip in the soothing waters. This appreciation of finding wellbeing in the heart of the Rocky Mountains has continued through the years, with Banff being the perfect spot to take in some relaxation & rejuvenation.

The spectacular, postcard-perfect backdrop of Lake Louise is ideal to find your true zen, perhaps by taking in some guided yoga with the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise's Yoga Retreats, for a weekend stay filled with mindfulness discussion, meditation classes and yoga with host Tracey Delfs of Balance Quest. (October 17-19, 2014 & Feb 27-March 1, 2015). Fairmont.com/lake-louise/
Then, take your 'Namaste' to the next level with some mountain-top heli-yoga or stretch out ski legs with Sunshine Village's restorative yoga mountain retreat. The program combines a majestic Rocky Mountain ski experience with the serenity of an on-mountain yoga practice and delicious, healthy organic food prepared by Executive Chef Martin Brenner at the peaceful Sunshine Mountain Lodge. SkiBanff.com

Not that adventurous as a yogi? Simply relax in one of Banff National Park's quality spas such as The Fairmont Banff Springs' Willow Stream, The Rimrock Spa or Red Earth at the Banff Caribou Lodge for a holistic pamper. Be good to yourself by sampling some delicious, organic food dishes at Banff's vegetarian vegan tapas-style restaurant, Nourish, or detox with some freshly-squeezed goodness from Banff's newest juice bar, Journey4Juice.

Frame the Rockies in Banff National Park
Capture the High-Definition Splendour of Banff & Lake Louise from Behind the Camera
We've all seen the classic shot of Lake Louise – clear turquoise water surrounded by white-tipped mountains – complete with the iconic red canoe. It's no surprise that Banff National Park is the inspiration for both professional photographers, amateur snappers and Instagrammers from the world over. Banff's dramatic peaks, green valleys and often camera-ready mountain wildlife make the area the perfect destination for capturing photographs that 'wow'.

The annual Lake Louise Fall Festival is the ideal time to explore Banff National Park from behind the camera lens, as the area lights up with the golden colour of the larches. Photographers can easily explore many accessible locations for stunning shots, including: from the shores of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Lake Minnewanka, Tunnel Mountain, by the Bow River, from the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House, Surprise Corner or from one of Banff's gondolas - Banff Gondola, the Grizzly Gondola in Lake Louise or the Sightseeing Chairlift at Mt. Norquay, that all offer spectacular scenes. Take the memorable drive along the iconic Icefields Parkway, named one of North America's 'Drives of a Lifetime' by National Geographic and shoot some footage from the heights of the recently-launched Glacier Skywalk. Brewster.ca/rocky-mountains/destinations/columbia-icefield/activities/glacier-skywalk/
Or, why not let an expert local photographer do the work for you? Mountain Bound Photography specializes in vacation photo shoots, offering various packages to photo-chronicle a day spent in Banff National Park! So, get in front of the camera and be a part of your own perfect mountain shoot, snapped enjoying your day of hiking, biking, paddling, having a lakeside picnic, skiing or playing with snowballs! MountainBoundPhotography.com

Comfort-Camping in Banff National Park
Take a 'Boutique' Approach to Back-to-Basics with oTENTiks and Equipped Camping!
Camping is a truly Canadian pastime. Those warm, summer evenings spent around the campfire sharing stories and roasting marshmallows are what makes for lifetime memories. Those that are new to camping or that like their home comforts, may feel the appeal of being at one with nature but perhaps are not quite sure about taking off into the backcountry and sleeping under the stars in a traditional tent.
Well, perhaps the oTENTiks from Parks Canada are the perfect solution! The oTENTik tent, a cross between a tent and a rustic cabin, offers a unique blend of 'homey' comfort and a taste of outdoor adventure – with a soft bed and campsite all ready to go! The oTENTiks are based at Banff's Two Jack Lake campground, close to Banff townsite and can accommodate up to six people. PC.gc.ca/Banff

For those that like the simplicity of camping in a tent, but haven't got the space in their suitcase or car for the equipment needed, look no further than Banff's outdoor rental experts for car camping packages, backcountry packages and individual items! CampingBanff.com. For an insight into oTENTiks, see a 'Real Banff' video at: TheRealBanff.com/otentik/
Experience Banff's Mountains of Gold

Hike Lake Louise in its Fall Golden Glory
For a unique Rockies getaway, look no further than the Lake Louise Fall Festival for the best that autumn has to offer: comfortable temperatures, seasonally-inspired menus and forests lit up with golden larches. Spice up your festival experience with a variety of events – from heritage activities to hiking challenges – or take in the mountain life at a slower pace. The Lake Louise Fall Festival features many different experiential packages to appeal to all tastes, including interpretative sessions and wildlife presentations with Parks Canada, art exhibitions, photography workshops, yoga and delicious dining promotions. BanffLakeLouise.com/Area-Events/Festivals/Fall/Lake-Louise-Fall-Festival.

The ideal way to spend an afternoon in Lake Louise throughout September is to take a day hike, to enjoy the spectacular yellow-cold needles of the alpine larch. Take the Lake Agnes trail for a 2 – 3 hour round trip, or for a full day of exploring, try the Boulder Pass.
Find Your Stampede Spirit in the Rockies
Giddy-Up for Authentic Western Experiences in Banff National Park
Every July, the world goes crazy for all things cowboy as Alberta celebrates its heritage with the Calgary Stampede. If you're saddling up for a trip to Calgary's grand stadium to take in some rodeo action, why not find your inner cowboy (or cowgirl) and say yahoo to experiencing Banff on horseback?!

A backcountry trip with Holidays on Horseback is the perfect solution for an authentic Western experience. For the tenderfoot out there, you can try out the saddle for size with trail rides ranging from 1 – 7 hours. Got your taste of the cowboy way of life? Then extend your trip to the full 5 day backcountry adventure, including overnight stays at Sundance and Halfway Lodges and a day trip to Allenby Pass. Interested? See some video inspiration from 'The Real Banff' at: TheRealBanff.com/hoh.
Just after a lil' taste of Western? Then look no further than Brewster Adventures, for a guided group trail ride on the Heritage Trails of picturesque Lake Louise. Jump on the saddle from Brewster's century old stables in Lake Louise and take the famed Tea House rides to Lake Agnes and the Plain of Six Glaciers. Worked up a thirst? No cowboy-inspired trip to Banff is complete without swinging by Wild Bill's, Banff's legendary saloon! Start with some fried pickles and campfire cheese dip before tucking into some hickory smoked brisket and ribs, at the same time enjoying some old-fashioned country rock n' roll. Yeehaa! WildBillsBanff.com

Moved by Mountains in Film and Fiction: The 2014 Banff Mountain Film & Book Festival
This winter (Nov 1 – 9, 2014), the 39th annual Banff Mountain Film & Book Festival comes to Banff National Park, hosted by The Banff Centre. Discover a nine-day cinematic and literature adventure of some of the world's most inspiring films and books from the heart of the dramatic Canadian Rockies, with presentations from renowned guest speakers. From feature films to featured speakers, there's something for everyone. Sit back and devote a guilt-free day to watching inspiring films from around the globe – including World premieres. Spend a lunch-hour listening to a renowned author reading excerpts from her latest work – or attend a free noon-hour seminar profiling hot topics in adventure and travel.

Banff Mountain Film & Book Festival will then depart on an extensive international World Tour, showcasing its enthralling content to audiences around the world. The just-launched schedule can be viewed at: Banffcentre.ca/mountainfestival/. #NineEpicDays
Celebrate the Beginning of All-Things-Winter with the WinterStart Festival
Banff has always loved all things winter, so it's no surprise that here, we eagerly anticipate the first snowfall! Experience the WinterStart Festival (Nov 28 – Dec 21). Imagine carving some early season turns at one of Banff National Park's three ski resorts and strolling down the streets of Banff under the soft twinkle of festive lights.

Catch a glimpse of the world- class skiers in the classic mens' and ladies' Audi FIS Ski World Cup downhill and super-G races at the Lake Louise Alpine Ski World Cup, hosted by Lake Louise Ski Resort. After the thrilling races, head to WinterStart in the Square in downtown Banff for an early evening of family-friendly live entertainment and winter activities! See Banff's main street come alive with music, treats and interactive animation! BanffLakeLouise.com/Area-Events/Festivals/Winter/WinterStart-Festival

Unwrap the Magic of Christmas in the Rockies
What's more Christmassy than fresh white snow falling over mountain tops, hot chocolate and fondue by the open fire, pine trees decorated with twinkly lights - oh and a (reindeer) elk or two?! Banff National Park is the true winter wonderland experience that just calls out to be enjoyed at Christmastime. Enjoy the thrills of Christmas spent in the Rockies with a variety of festive events for the young and young at heart. Listen to Castle Carolers, become mesmerized by the artwork of professional ice sculptures and watch Banff Avenue brighten with the 'Santa Claus Parade of Lights'.

For the truly magical Christmas, head to Banff's own enchanting castle, The Fairmont Banff Springs for an unforgettable December of home-baked gingerbread cookies, skating parties, intimate candle-lit dinners for two, or maybe to join the Norse Yule Log Ceremony?! New for 2014, is Banff's Christmas Market – imagine a unique browsing experience in the heart of a snowy Rockies' scene, with Banff Christmas Market's many stalls of fashion and gifts and live entertainment to top off the experience! Plus, no Christmas visit to the Rockies is complete without taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride through the snow, available from Banff's outfitters such as Holiday on Horseback or Brewster Adventures.

Delve into the Rich History and Heritage of Banff National Park As Canada's first National Park, Banff has many, many intriguing stories of the past to tell. In 1883 a group of Canadian Pacific Railway workers came upon what is now known as the Cave and Basin natural hot springs, which led to the Federal Government establishing the area as the Hot Springs Reserve and later, Rocky Mountain Park. Uncover some of Banff's rich history with a historical walking tour of heritage buildings and sights from the older days. Stroll through Banff Park Museum National Historic Site, the oldest natural history museum in Western Canada and see the former residence of female pioneer Mary Schaffer. Visit the Whyte Museum of The Canadian Rockies and then why not join a guided interpretative group hike of Banff's trails with an expert on hand to tell you about the history and culture of the local area, organized by Banff Heritage Tourism. Take some time to explore the Buffalo Nations Museum and return to the days when the horse first arrived on the plains, and when Europeans discovered Native cultures rich in elaborate ceremonies, dances, songs, and legends. Then, enjoy a trip to where it started, the birth of Canada's parks system and conservation history, the Cave & Basin Historic Site, and experience events including lantern tours, cinema-under-the-stars and a celebration of what was in the 20's Winter Carnival, including skijoring! Make your way to Lake Louise and take a tour with one of The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise's knowledeable Mountain Heritage Guides, part of Fairmont's Mountain Adventire Program? Take a trip to one of the historic tea houses or challenge the summit of Mt Fairview. Fairmont.com/lake-louise

Of course a look into Banff's history isn't complete without discovering the fascinating western spirit of the Rockies. Why not travel by covered wagon and try an authentic Western Cookout with Holidays on Horseback? Try your hand at roping or challenge friends to a game of horseshoes while your delciious lunch of BBQ steak, baked potatoes and homecooked baked beans is cooked to order. Or join a traditional horse trail ride with The Brewster Family, from Brewster Mountain Adventures – reallife mountain pioneers and cowboys who have been taking care of visitors to the Canadian Rockies for over 100 years.

Let's not forget Banff's long-running relationship with winter sports and skiing too, with Mount Norquay establishing downhill skiing in 1926 as the first ski resort in the Canadian Rockies and even being graced by the presence of the iconic Marilyn Monroe in the 1950s. Banffnorquay.com/discover-norquay/.

Plus, throughout 2015, CMH, the inventors of heli-skiing, mark 50 years. Celebrate with CMH and discover how they developed the sport throughout the years, from their headquarters in Banff - each helicopter ascent delivers breathtaking views of legendary terrain where only a few make their mark. Canadianmountainholidays.com Take a Foodie Tour & Experience the Alternatives to Alberta Beef & Brew in Banff National Park!

Okay, so don't get us wrong – in Banff National Park you are sure to find plenty of delicious, top-quality, locally-sourced AA Alberta beef and game dishes to devour (The Bison, Sleeping Buffalo at Buffalo Mountain Lodge and The Grizzly House's hot rocks dining are all must-try experiences…). Canadiana cuisine is our specialty and with Banff's microbrewery and much-loved brew pub, Banff Brewing Co., you'll never be short of a refreshing homebrewed IPA or Cream Ale. However, Banff's dynamic foodie scene offers much more diverse tastes and worldly flavours for the palette than simply beer and beef!

Why not try some Greek cuisine at The Balkan, Mexican tacos and tequila flights at the Magpie & Stump? Enjoy delicious German delights at The Fairmont Banff Springs' Bavarian cottage-style Waldhaus Restaurant, taste award-winning fresh pizzas at popular hangout, The Bear Street Tavern, go back in time and have a romantic dinner at the historic Station Restaurant in Lake Louise or take in the tradition of afternoon tea in style at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, overlooking the shores of the iconic turquoise lake and the Victoria Glacier.
Bon Appetit is Banff's annual celebration of all things foodie. Sweet and savoury, fresh and flavourful, the culinary options in Banff and Lake Louise will have your mouth watering during this food fest! From Nov 13 – Nov 23, exceptional restaurants come together and offer diners unique three-course menus.

The exceptional chefs, mixologists and sommeliers are also part of Banff National Park's foodie stories. Take some time with J W Foster, the Fairmont Banff Springs' Executive Chef who has over 25 years in the industry and a commitment to local, sustainable food, meet the passionate Liz Gagnon, Executive Chef at The Bison and hear about how she's working with Alberta's finest game producers, or meet Alistair Barnes, Executive Chef, Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts who cleverly combines his continental influences from his Jersey Channel Islands' upbringing with trends of Canadian cuisine to develop his own innovative cooking style. Then, mix it up with one of Banff's finest mixologists, Matt Hendriks who is very much shaking up the Banff cocktail scene with carefully handcrafted cocktails, working with hand pressed juices and local fruits and reinventing old fashioned, straight spirit drinks!

#MyBanff
This is the World's Finest National Park
Here, there are mountains, grizzly bears and cowboys. There are emerald lakes that can be seen from space, and quiet forest glades that nobody has ever seen (yet). The skies are blue by day and shimmer red and green at night. There are luxurious castles in the realm where nature rules unconquered and unconquerable. It is the last place on earth that is anything like it. 2500 square miles of Canadian Rockies full of experiences - it is a bucket list of 1. Because here in the only protected mountain resort on earth, 'Nature Rules'.
Stories to Inspire
The rich history and scenic drama of Banff National Park has been inspiring storytellers for generations. In 1885 when three Canadian Pacific Railway workers discovered natural hot springs near what is now the Town of Banff, one of Canada's great stories, the creation of the nation's first national park was born. Today, Banff National Park continues to provide limitless inspiration to modern story tellers and adventure seekers alike.
Whether you write about cuisine, skiing, heritage & culture, the outdoors, adventure travel or spa, you will find that Banff National Park is a destination rich in meaningful and memorable stories. Let us inspire you to tell those stories. For the latest story ideas, editorial photos, news releases and backgrounders, come find us at:
BanffLakeLouise.com/Media-Relations

Media Contacts:

Kymberley Hill, Senior Manager, Travel Media Relations
KHill@BanffLakeLouise.com
Jeff Mitchell, Manager, Social Media
JMitchell@BanffLakeLouise.com
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