Canadian Rockies

The settlement of the Canadian Rockies was greatly increased by the creation of the Canadian Pacific Railway as well as the gold rush during the late 1800's that brought men in during their search for fortune. The railroad allowed a connection from British Columbia to eastern Canada, with a very difficult to build passage placed through the Rocky Mountains. As the railway was constructed, many towns were settled along the railway. The construction of this railroad also caused the discovery of many of Canada's natural wonders that are now some of the area's favorite National Parks.

Driving through the Canadian Rockies is a treat- you could see grizzly bears or black bears that are sometimes crossing the street; or perhaps a moose or mountain goat will cross your path. If man-made wonders are more to your liking, you'll be amazed at the size of the grandest hotel in the world, built in 1888, the Fairmont Bariff Springs Resort.

Also in the Rocky Mountains, you'll enjoy numerous natural wonders including Lake Louise, the winding Bow Valley Parkway, Icefields Parkway and Jasper National Park.

Geography of the Rockies

At the northern end of the American Rockies, the Canadian Rockies begin; the end is at the southern end of British Columbia and Alberta- meeting along the northern borders of Idaho and Montana. The largest National Park in Canada, the Jasper National Park, also holds some of the Rocky Mountains, with the park covering 6,831 square miles.

Rocky Mountain Tourism

Canada tourism is greatly influenced by visitors to the Rocky Mountains. Many tourists enjoy a rail tour throughout the Rockies, as there are numerous locations to indulge in the beauty of the scenary throughout the tour. In and around Alberta and British Columbia, the tourists and locals alike find pleasure in the Hot Springs and Spa's, as well as hiking, horseback riding, white water rafting and mountain biking along the trails.

An abundance of National Parks and amazing wildlife keep people returning to the Rockies to enjoy some of the most beautiful views in the world. Even just driving along the roads through the mountains can entertain tourists for hours with all their is to look at.

Weather in the Mountains

When in the Rocky Mountains, you might be surprised at the great variance of temperatures and weather conditions that can occur in a single day. Temperatures drop quickly at night as the sun sets- and even in the hottest months of the summer where the temperatures reach the high 90's (fahrenheit), the evenings can reach lows as cool as 40 degrees fahrenheit. During the winter months, the days may reach the mid 20's, but at night it can drop below freezing at times.

An interesting aspect of weather in Rocky Mountain winters are the "Chinook" winds. These winds may travel through the Rockies and raise temperatures into the mid 90's, but it will only last for a few hours. The snow is evaporated so quickly during these winds that the slush stage is completely skipped over as spring comes in.

When traveling in the Rocky Mountains, be sure you have a range of clothing suitable for all temperatures to ensure your comfort. You can never predict what type of weather you'll experience throughout your visit.