Snow place like home

Thursday

Today was again sunny, with the added bonus of snow capped peaks to add to the already picturesque scenery.

Our first stop was Surprise corner where we had a view of the Banff Springs hotel, Tunnel mountain and the falls. We also managed to get in 18 different versions of the group photo. Well done to High the guide who took them all.

From there we headed further around the mountain to a view point for the Hoo Doos, sort of like the pinnacles. Rocky outcrops. Again stunning views.

However the final stop was the best of all. We took our gondola ride to the top of Mount Sulfur, where we had 360 views of the mountains and Banff itself. The snow just added that final touch. It rivals the Grand Canyon as the best view while eating, as I had some chips in the cafe there. On the top floor of the facilities you have the 360 view and ararnge the fence are flags with directions and distances to various cities. There was a weather station on the next peak but the climb did not seem to be worth the effort.

We had over an hour for lunch and whatever last minute shopping was required before heading back to Calgary and the end of the Road Trip.

It certainly has been full of incredible views and experiences. Going on a bus tour with other Mensans and with a guide was probably the best way to see these stunning mountains, lakes and rivers. I expect a self drive tour of the same area would have missed many of the sites we saw.

I have also had first hand experience of the effect of altitude, often getting quite short of breath after climbing stairs or up a slope, which would not normally bother me.

As we arrived back the group started to fragment with Robert catching a bus to Edmonton and Patrick and Gail heading for the airport. The rest of us checked into the IBD hotel where we met some of the locals who were at the Regional Gathering.

My room is quite large with a view over the river. I have finally unpacked my suitcase and found some things that I was sure were there but couldn't locate easily.