Outdoor adventure, in this time of COVID-19, is exactly what people crave this summer. Everyone wants to put a smile on their face and a spring back in their step. Being outside in the sunshine and fresh air will do just that. With the Rocky Mountains so close to Calgary, a day-trip full of adventure is as easy as 1-2-3!
When planning an adventurous day-trip from Calgary, consider the following suggestions:
1. Rock-Climbing with Yamnuska Mountain Adventures
As children, we loved climbing and scrambling over and under all sorts of things in the great outdoors; boulders, fallen logs, home-made ladders leading up to tree forts. Signing up for a professionally-instructed rock climbing course with Yamnuska helps get back that childhood ‘love to climb’ feeling. Whether a complete beginner who has never rock climbed before or a highly skilled climber looking to tick off the list of classics, Yam has something for everyone. Rock shoes and technical gear included.
* Private sessions, with your own personal guiding professional, are available *
2. Whitewater Rafting with Wild Water Adventures
Nothing says ‘outdoor adventure’ more than Calgary whitewater rafting! With mild to wild waves splashing and crashing about (sometimes from above), rafters will feel completely energized and refreshed by the time the trip is finished. The best river in the Rockies for whitewater action is the good ‘ole Kicking Horse, a river Wild Water Adventures has rafted since 1992. With its eye for detail, highly experienced (and fun-loving) guides, and spacious RiverBase Day Lodge, time spent with Wild Water is definitely worth the drive from Calgary! Roster options include the family-friendly Gentle rafting trip (a great introduction to whitewater rafting); the ever-exciting Whitewater Exciter (for BIG whitewater); the full-length Tradition (the Gentle and Whitewater Exciter half-day trips put together for 2 trips in 1), and the double-run Maximum Horsepower. Daily departures available at 8:45AM and 1:45PM.
* Private Boat options are available for all trips; Minimum 8 years of age *
* For 2021: Afternoon Gentle departures available on Sundays, Mondays and Thursdays *
3. Bike Rentals with Gear Up
Head on out to Canmore, pick up a rental bike and pedal your way around the trails! What could be easier than packing a picnic lunch and powering a well-maintained road or mountain bike, rented from Gear Up, to a lovely spot in the Bow Valley? With the multitude of dirt and paved trails in and around Canmore and Banff, riders of all abilities can enjoy spending a day out in the fresh Rocky Mountain air.
* Bike riding with your family is a naturally spacious outdoor activity *
4. Guided Fishing Tours with Wapiti Sports
Try your hand at fishing for trout on the Upper Bow River near Canmore. The Rocky Mountains offer a stunning backdrop for Wapiti Sports’ Float and Wade guided fishing tours, all of which are strictly catch and release. Spend a few hours gently drifting along turquoise-hued waters, searching out Bull and Brook trout, Cutthroat and the Rocky Mountain Whitefish.
* Privately guided tours available *
5. Go For a Hike in Yoho National Park
‘Yoho’ is Cree for amazement or awe, of which there is no shortage on any hiking trail found within the national park boundaries. Wapta Falls, just down the highway from Wild Water Adventures’ RiverBase, is a mellow forest trail leading to the most amazingly awesome waterfall (a miniature Niagara Falls!). Be sure to walk down to the base of the waterfall for even more spectacular Rocky Mountain views. For more isolated time on the trail, hike up to Hunter Lookout; the trailhead is just across the TransCanada from the Wapta Falls exit.
* Hiking is yet another naturally spacious outdoor activity ideal for families and groups *
Before The Summer Ends …
This summer, more than ever it seems, we have to treat ourselves to the wonders of nature. Our minds are eased when outside by the rivers, on a trail, or somewhere on a mountain. Outdoor adventure is key to keeping us happy and content while still allowing for appropriate distancing from others. Just be sure to get your summer outdoor adventuring accomplished before the season ends.
See You Soon On The River!
Author: Deborah Wade
