It's A Funny Old World!

I have to admit that after the trip up to Banff, I anticipated a bit of a 'sleep in' to recover but it was not to be. Nothing to do with horase riding - to be honest Jan is not really up for a 'hack' on a horse today. She does though seem set on the concept so perhaps she will mount up in Jasper?

Our first full day in this scenery rich area turned out to be a scorcher with clear blue sky's and we decided to make the most of it. Initially, we headed for a short trail close to Banff town centre (Fenland Loop along 40 Mile Creek) which proved to be extremely enjoyable, an opportunity for a few pretty snaps and a chance to see a Canadian Red Squirel - lovely little creature who's red tail is edged with grey.

Deciding that another lengthy car trip was 'out of the question', we decided to go see if the Banff Gondola to the top of Sulphur Mountain was operating. It was. And packed lunch at the ready we paid our dollars and ascended the 2,292 feet to an altitude of 7,486 feet above sea level. The views are spectacular and the board-walk (which we traversed) took us to the top of Sanson's Peak where there is a weather station which once used to be occupied (you can still see the very basic conditions the men used to live in). Some pics from the expedition:

This little fella seems to thrive at such altitude!

Eventually, we headed down again. and feeling a need to fill another couple of hours of 'spare time', we drove the short route round Tunnel Mountain and then on to Lake Minniwanka - yes - spelt correctly! It's the deep blue lake in the big picture above.

We were lucky enough on the way for a wild Cayote to cross our path but it ran away before we could capture a decent snap (must have just missed the Road Runner!). 

So the day was almost done (and so were we!).

Next day was rest, rest, rest. Well, keyring hunting actually to fulfil Jan's craving for such memorabilia. We also managed to get across to the pool, steam room & hot tub across the road from where we are staying and to which we have honorary membership - wonderful!

Not much more to add other than a cross-reference  to the title of this Blog post. We ended the day at Tommy's Neighbourhood Pub for a quick drink (as one does). Had a great time chatting about Rugby with the manager of the pub and former England under 21 player (Mark Hooper - 'Hoops') who now runs a very successful Banff line-up. It's a funny old world!