Parks and nature reserves of the Canadian Rockies
Canada has a history or ecological awareness and because of the desire to preserve the beauty that nature provides. Because of this, Canada has a large network of parks and nature reserves. Not only do these protected areas keep the land pristine and the animals safe, they also preserve Canada's heritage and history, and provide breathtaking sights for tourists, both domestic and foreign. Some of the most splendid of the protected areas lie in the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Founded in 1885 and originally named Rocky Mountain Park, Banff was Canada's first established national park. It became Banff National Park in 1930, when the boundaries we know today were set. This impressive and diverse ecological area contains mountains, forests, waterfalls, ice fields, glaciers, lakes, rivers, and hot springs. The first tourists to visit the area were rich Europeans, but later the parks grew to include the average vacationer as transportation was improved and roads were built or improved. Lake Louise is a popular destination within the park, as is the Icefields Parkway, a scenic drive that runs from Jasper south to Lake Louise. Popular mountains with visitors include The Snow Dome, Bonnet Peak, Stoney Squaw Mountain, Mount Norquay, and Tunnel Mountain. These provide ample opportunities for camping, hiking, skiing and boarding, and sightseeing. The entire park provides for virtually every sport and amenity available, and every comfort level from roughing it to luxury at a spa.
Jasper National Park is the largest national park is the Canadian Rockies. It preserves glaciers and crystal blue water lakes, and the pristine wilderness that makes the Canadian Rockies so awe-inspiring. From summertime activities such as hiking, fishing, biking, and boating to wintertime marvels of cross-country skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and special winter tours, Jasper has an activity for any taste. Within this park expect to see animals and plants in abundance. There will be caribou, bears, wolves, moose, goats, hares, cougars, and sheep, among others. Maligne Canyon offers hiking opportunities and spectacular views of canyons that have been carved out of a limestone foundation by the Athabasca River.
Planned burns within protected areas are conducted when necessary, and will provide the benefits that forest fires provide without causing the devastation. Restricting some areas from tourists will leave them to grow naturally and prolifically. By protecting, balancing, and preserving nature, and reducing destruction of food sources and habitat, Canada has made it possible through legislation and education, to ensure proper environments for the wildlife, vegetation and geography of the Rocky Mountains. Species of flora and fauna can thrive rather than become extinct, and the natural beauty of the area will be preserved for the enjoyment of generations to come.