Canada Fly Drive

It started as a holiday to Vermont in the fall for the photo opportunity. Then Ottawa Toronto and the falls were tagged on. Now I’m thinking of flying Toronto to Calgary then drive to Vancouver through the Rockies. This would be end of September to mid October. Would our Canadian friends think the drive is recommended at that time of year or would the weather make it hazardous?

There is no problem with the weather at that time of the year. In mid October, you can likely get "fall colours" in the higher ground. Don't forget to visit Banff National Park while you're driving through. There is also Lake Louise worth a good look. If you drive further up north, you can also see the Columbia Ice Field (a mountain glacier coming down to "die" in the valley) and Jasper Park. Just note that while driving through the National Parks, try to buy anything you might need before getting in the Parks. You can still buy just about anything in those Parks, but at about three times the regular prices. And, while you drive, try not to forget that Canadians are driving on the right side of the road, as opposed to British citizens driving on the "wrong" side. If you have any more questions, don't be shy to PM me. I hope you have a nice trip.

P.S. While you're on your way to Ottawa, give me a call and I'll show you around Montréal.

Thanks Yves. Off to the travel agent tomorrow, may know more by the end of the day. Thanks again

If nothing is set in concrete, book a few days in Montréal and I'll take you to Quebec city for a day visit. Take my word, it's worth being seen. The old (very old) part of Quebec was rebuilt like it was in the eighteen century, and Québec is the only fortified city left in North America. I would also like to take you to Upper Canada Village or the Village Québecois d'Antan. They are village that have been rebuilt to depict Canadian life in or around 1860. And Old Montréal is worth a visit, too.

I can recomend the Green Mountain Inn at Stowe and can also suggest you consider a couple of days in New Hampshire (the Wentworth in Jackson is good), you do either before moving on to Canada.

Have you ever though of doing photographic holidays

While in Banff, get out your hiking boots and follow one of the trails from downtown Banff up to the mountianside and get a photo or two of the town... And the banff springs hotel (where Kubric filmed the Shining)... been a while since I've been there...

If ever I find myself unemployed (fat chance), I'll give the idea a second look.

there was this cute little windmill motel we stayed at one time...in Canmore if I recall....
Canmore is definately cheaper than Banff.
and I'll second what 'spider said, Pentaxian, getting into an area like Quebec with somebody that understands the language, the culture, and photography is definately worth a few bucks in my opinion!

When at Banff, make sure you do the side trip north to the Athabasca glacier. The scenery is just why we all visit Canada! Timing will be perfect for fall colours in the later part of your trip. I would time it a week or so later, perhaps sticking to October. You will see more wildlife in the Rockies in October than September from my limited experience. Have a great time.
bb2

Who said I understand any of the above?

ok point taken, I live with a woman, talk to her everyday, and still.....
"Who said I understand any of the above?" applies here too...

link

Well it's booked to be done in two legs. First Calgary to Vancouver in 14 days via The Rockies. Then Toronto to Boston in 7 days via Vermont

If you do get to Banff do take the Banff Gondola up to the top of Sulpher Mountain. The views are spectacular. Click Gondala

Also a walk round Tunnel Mountain to the Hoodoos is worth a visit - good views of Bow River.

And there is so much more. PM me if you require further suggestions.

The photo opportunities are endless. Take plenty of cards!

John