Alberta: Cowboy trail and Waterton Lakes National Park

set between the foot of the Rockies and the great Canadian prairies, Calgary has developed from an oil-boom, former frontier town to a rich, wealthy city. It owes its celebrity to the Calgary Stampede, a huge cowboy festival that is held annually in July. Calgary hosted the XV Winter Olympic Games in 1988.

The prairies of Alberta meet the peaks of the Rocky Mountains in Waterton Lakes National Park, bordering and connected to Glacier National Park in Montana, forming the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. Once a hunting ground for the Blackfoot Native Americans, it now encompasses natural wonders in a small space: magnificent mountains, prairies, lakes, waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.

The Kananaskis Valley is a hidden gem for nature lovers, offering breathtaking mountain landscapes and countless recreational opportunities. The region is home to Kananaskis Country Park, with trails for all skill levels, including the famous Grassi Lakes Trail. Adventurers can try whitewater rafting or mountain biking, while those seeking tranquility can enjoy the scenic viewpoints and picnic areas. In winter, the valley transforms into a winter sports paradise with ski resorts like Nakiska Ski Area and numerous cross-country trails. The stunning natural scenery makes Kananaskis Valley an unforgettable destination.

Jasper National Park is the largest park in the Canadian Rockies, famous for its spectacular landscapes made up of turquoise lakes, towering glaciers, wild forests, and abundant wildlife. Iconic sites such as Maligne Lake, Mount Robson, and Maligne Canyon make it an ideal destination for those seeking unspoiled nature, adventure, and breathtaking scenery.

the trip from Jasper to Lake Louise/Banff is one of the most breathtaking moments of the journey: a wild land, crossed by the Icefield Parkway (one of the best panoramic roads in North America), amidst majestic mountains, vast forests and colossal glaciers. Lake Louise (1731 m) is arguably the most photographed lake in Canada. Set in a glacial dale, shadowed by the peaks of the Continental Divided, it waters mirror the majestic Victoria glacier. It is also a prominent ski area, as well as one well-known stage of the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup.

Breathtaking scenery through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. The road meanders between towering peaks, crystal clear lakes and lush forests, offering unforgettable views along the way. Banff, surrounded by mountains, forests, waterfalls, and hot springs, is not just a simple resort town, it is the ultimate Canadian resort town, both in summer and winter.

Cross the land of the cowboys, passing through the Rocky Mountains and leaving Banff National Park, towards the plains surrounding the vibrant city of Calgary.