Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/141643
PRE-TOUR SCHEDULE 6-9 OCTOBER 7 OCT MONDAY - STAY AT THE JASPER PARK LODGE Comparing mountains is a subjective and imprecise business. Yet few would deny that the Canadian Rockies are one of the most extravagantly beautiful ranges on Earth. The mountains and vast stretches of wilderness that make up the birthplace of Canada's fi rst national park offer stunning scenery of glaciers, lakes, valleys, and snowcapped mountain peaks. Large mammals such as deer and elk can be observed in all seasons from the roadside. The Fairmont Hotel Jasper Park Lodge is a luxury destination surrounded by nature's majesty. The Insignia Spa is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of adventure. The health club, which features an outdoor heated swimming pool, indoor whirlpool, sauna, steam room, and exercise room. Equally relaxing are the hotel's lavish accomodations surrounded by incredible views of majestic mountains and the emerald green Lake Beauvert. 8 OCT TUESDAY - JASPER TRAM AND COLUMBIA ICEFIELDS THE EXPERIENCE of being gently transported into Jasper National Park's alpine tundra will captivate everyone. Jasper Tramway is the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada and the only guided aerial ropeway in the Canadian Rockies. It provides visitors with unprecedented views of six mountain ranges, glacial fed lakes, the Athabasca river (Alberta's longest) and the scenic mountain town-site of Jasper. In the safety of an enclosed Tram cabin you will make the smooth seven minute trip to the Upper Station located at 2277 metres (7472 ft) above sea level. During your ascent up Whistlers Mountain our tour guide will inform you of the area, points of interest, animal life and history as well as answering questions. More than just an attraction, it is a true learning experience. Your destination, the Upper Station, offers a safe and awe-inspiring view that you may enjoy as you stroll the board walks and watch for wild life: Hoary Marmot, White-tailed Ptarmigan, Ground Squirrels, Pikas and the occasional Bighorn Sheep. Then you will enjoy a warm hardy meal on top of the world! The Glacier Adventure™ reveals the most unique attraction in the Canadian Rockies – an excursion onto the surface of the Athabasca Glacier. Getting to Columbia Icefield on a scenic mountain roadway is a remarkable attraction in itself! The Athabasca Glacier, one of the largest accumulations of ice and snow south of the Arctic Circle, covers an area of nearly 325 square kilometers, sometimes reaching a depth of 300-360 meters. You will travel in a specially designed Ice Explorer to the middle of the glacier, on a 5 kilometre round trip. At the mid-point, you will have the option of stepping out onto ice formed from snow falling as long as 400 years ago. Your driver/guide will explain how glaciers are formed and point out interesting geological features as you travel in safety and comfort. Register by enclosed form OR online at www.idaparts.org 5